Among the Darkness Stirs

Theodocia frowned and then offered, “Why don’t you stay for supper?”

Audrey shook her head. She had no desire to run into Henry. She preferred keeping a distance from the cool man, and a meal with him was not what she had in mind. “I’m afraid I can’t.”

“I’m all alone this evening. Henry had to travel to London earlier in the week. He won’t be home until tomorrow.” She shrugged.

Audrey’s mouth watered at the thought of a well-cooked meal. “Thank you. That’s kind of you. I’d like that.”

Theodocia seemed pleased with her answer. “But that’s not the reason I invited you here. I wanted to see if you would consider attending my society club. As a member.”

Audrey blinked in surprise. “Me? I’m afraid I know nothing of society women. I would be out of sorts. I wouldn’t fit in. I’m a vicar’s daughter.”

Theodocia waved that away. “It’s true that you aren’t the wife or daughter of a well-to-do, but you offer something far more valuable.”

Audrey had the suspicion that not everyone in the society would agree. “Do I? What’s that?”

“Realism.”

“Realism,” Audrey repeated the word.

“Yes, I’m afraid these society women are wrapped up in their own little worlds and it would help them and the club if they could be brought back to reality. At least every once in a while.”

Audrey hesitated. “I’m not sure. They might find me intrusive.”

“I invited you, my dear. They won’t say anything,” Theodocia assured her.

Audrey’s mouth tipped up in a grin. “How can I refuse?”

“Why don’t we take a turn about the lawn? The river is so lovely when the sun sets. Then we can return for supper, and afterwards, we can have port or tea and we’ll play Ecarte.” Theodocia gestured for Audrey to follow her.

Audrey stood and fell into step beside the older woman. “Ecarte?”

“Have you played it, my dear?”

“I haven’t. My father didn’t approve of cards.”

“Didn’t he?”

She shook her head. “No.”

“There’s no sin in cards if you aren’t betting. And even if you do bet, as long as you don’t lose your shirt,” Theodocia said.

Audrey bit back a smile. “Or on

e’s petticoat.”

Theodocia winked at her. “Spirited girl. I like that.”

Chapter Thirteen

Supper had been delicious. Roast turkey with broccoli, along with citrus ice for dessert and a slice of fancy cake with coffee. Seated before the fire, Theodocia had two brandies poured out for them as she taught Audrey how to play the card game.

“Your home is so inviting. I felt the same when I came here the first time. You have made it remarkable.”

“All that you see here is Henry’s doing,” she said proudly. “He purchased the land. He found the architect to draw up the plans. He supervised it all. All I did was hang some curtains here and there.”

Audrey glanced around at all the comfort. “He has a fine eye.”

“Doesn’t he?” Theodocia said mysteriously but said no more.