grin kept her from feeling any offense. “Josephine told us. I’m to go last. Want to hear my recitation?”
Alice raised her eyebrows and folded her hands before her. “You already have something prepared?”
“Yes. I thought I could give Puck’s speech from the end of the play we read last week.”
"From A Midsummer Night’s Dream?” Alice gaped at him. “Lord James, that would be perfect. I had nearly forgotten you memorized it.” Indeed, he had focused so much of his attention on frogs and catapults of late, his other activities had nearly eclipsed his interest in the mischievous Puck.
What better way to end an evening of children’s displays than Puck’s monologue?
“Did Lady Josephine inform your sisters, too?”
The boy nodded. “They’re getting dressed right now.” He wrinkled his nose. “Why do girls take so long to get dressed?”
Alice laughed as the last of her nerves dissipated. “It is a mystery, my lord. One you may never untangle. But do lay out your own suit of clothing, so I may check it over, please.”
“Yes, Miss Sharpe.” He looked over his shoulder. “Come on, fellows. We had better turn ourselves out.” He flashed his grin at Alice. “We’ll be ready soon.” Then he closed the door.
Alice stepped backward until she leaned against the wall. It seemed she owed Lady Josephine her gratitude. Then she straightened and went to the room shared by Lady Isabelle and Lady Rosalind. She would assist them however she could and ensure neither of them suffered from nerves over their upcoming performance.
Chapter 14
Billings did not ask any questions as he helped Rupert dress once more, this time for the children’s recital and the evening meal. But Rupert sensed his valet’s curiosity enough that it amused him to keep silent about his afternoon with Alice.
Warmth spread through his chest even thinking her name. He had her friendship, which brought about a great deal of satisfaction, but he dearly wanted more.
Thankfully, he had the entire summer to work upon gaining her affection. Despite their relatively brief acquaintance, he knew she was special. He could feel it in his heart and soul.
As his valet put the last touch in place, a sapphire stickpin in Rupert’s cravat, he at last broke his silence with his sincere gratitude. “Thank you for your help, Billings. The basket you provided for my walk with Miss Sharpe was excellent.”
The valet relaxed and stepped back, a smile briefly appearing upon his stoic face. “I am pleased I could be of assistance, sir.”
Rupert took the conversation a step further. “I take it you approve of Miss Sharpe.”
Billings appeared thoughtful as he answered. “I approve of anyone who esteems you and your work, sir.”
With a nod, Rupert surveyed himself one last time in the mirror. “Thank you, Billings. That will do. I doubt I will need anything else this evening. You may spend your time as you will.”
The valet nodded. “Very good, sir. Thank you.”
Rupert left the room in high spirits. Word of the children’s performance had reached him, and he had a feeling he would catch another glimpse of Alice that evening because of it.
He made his way to the music room, and when he entered saw that chairs were filled both with children and their parents alike. The doors to the next room over, a study, were open to allow for more seating. The duke and duchess had added local neighbors to the guest list for the evening.
He found the duke’s three youngest children with his gaze; they sat in the front row of chairs with their parents and eldest sister. But where, then, would Alice sit? It took him a moment to find her, seated beside three other women dressed in dark clothing. He recognized the governess, Miss Felton, sitting with her customary scowl in place. Alice, sitting beside her in a gown of deep blue, appeared all the lovelier with her contrasting expression of anticipation.
She caught sight of him at nearly the same moment, and he had the pleasure of watching her smile before she offered the smallest of waves. Rupert inclined his head toward her, then found a seat among the guests.
If only they had met before she became a governess. Then there would be little to keep him from seeking her out among company.
Lady Josephine stood after the room had filled, apparently taking on the role of hostess for the evening. She thanked everyone for coming and introduced the first several children who would perform. Rupert sat back in his chair, crossing his arms. His