“No, but perhaps he’s planning to surprise me.”
“I suppose that’s possible.” Lily rolled her eyes. “What shall we do now?”
“How about a pint?” Thomas said amiably.
“I’m with Jameson,” Evan said. “I fear my thirst needs quenching.”
“Admittedly, that sounds good,” Daniel agreed, “but the ladies—”
“Oh for goodness’ sake, go on with them,” Lily said. “You’re allowed a few carefree remnants of your bachelor days.” She shooed the men off. “The girls and I will shop. I want to look at the oriental silk some more. Let’s meet back here in an hour. I don’t want to miss the spiral dance.”
“Perfect,” Daniel said. “Buy whatever you want, love.”
“Do you hear yourself, Lybrook?” Thomas ch
ortled. “I’m not sure you need another drink.”
The three men laughed as they tottered off together.
Alexandra sighed. “I do believe those are the three best-looking men in England,” she said thoughtfully. “My cousin, my cousin-in-law, and my future stepbrother. Of all the rotten luck!”
“Ally, do you ever think of anything but men?” Sophie shook her head.
“Come now, they’re splendid, and you know it.”
“I have to agree with her,” Lily said. “Especially the one in the middle. Now come on, let’s shop! I want to get some of that incredible silk.”
“I still can’t believe you aren’t marrying Evan, Rose,” Ally said. “I admit he isn’t my favorite person in the world, but he’s damned good-looking!”
“Ally! Your language.” Sophie sighed.
“I’m beginning to regret our mutual decision,” Rose said.
“Really?” Alexandra raised her eyebrows. “So you feel more for him than you thought?”
“I’m thinking about it,” Rose said, “and that’s all I’m saying.” She shot Lily a look telling her to keep quiet.
“Well, I certainly can’t blame you,” Ally said. “He is spectacular.”
Spectacular indeed. Alexandra was right. All three of them were. But one existed who put them all to shame, who stole her breath with a single glance.
Cameron. The father of her child.
* * * *
The men returned from their jaunt to the tavern, pleasantly relaxed. The ladies awaited them, their arms full of parcels.
“Dear God, Lybrook,” Thomas said, approaching. “Do you see what you’ve done? They’ve gone and bought out the place.”
“I’m sorry, Daniel,” Lily said. “We didn’t have time to deliver our purchases to the carriage or we would have been late to meet you.”
“No problem, love. We’ll take them for you.” He motioned to Thomas and Evan.
“You’re kidding, right?” Thomas said, winking. “She’s your problem now. Once you married her, all big brother duties officially ceased.”
“Thomas, you fool,” Lily laughed.
“You’re still her brother,” Daniel said. Then, to Evan, “and you’re her cousin, almost. Come on.”