Something Scandalous

But the truth was she’d been fantasizing about Will since she met him. That sizzling kiss only increased her fascination with him.

A light knock on the door sounded. “Elizabeth, may I come in?”

“Yes, Ellie.”

Ellie entered and smiled at her. “I hope you don’t mind if I disturb you.”

“Of course not. Is something wrong?”

Ellie walked to the window and glanced outside into the square. “It’s just that I saw that look on your face during dinner, and thought you might want to talk to someone.”

She knew! “What do you mean?” Elizabeth squeaked.

“When Alicia and David first met, she was the same way. The daydreaming, followed by the flushed cheeks. You were thinking about a man, Elizabeth.”

Elizabeth closed her eyes. As much as she would love to confide in someone, she just did not think his sister was the person. “You must be mistaken.”

Ellie giggled. “I’m sure I am not. Alicia later told what had caused her to look so embarrassed. So I really do understand. Is it Will?”

“What?” Elizabeth clutched the bedpost for support. “What would make you think that?”

“I saw the look you gave him before you started woolgathering. It was almost indecent.”

Elizabeth covered her mouth with her hand. “Oh, my God! Do you think he noticed?”

“He’s a man. They are oblivious to most things. He can’t even see that Abigail is playing games with him.” Ellie sat on the end of the bed.

“But Abigail wrote him a letter stating her father wanted her to marry some other man, and that she agreed with him.” Elizabeth finally plopped down next to Ellie.

“Indeed? That’s odd,” Ellie considered. “Lucy and I have always thought she was up to no-good with Will. It was as if she was making him believe she would eventually marry him when we all knew she would never do such a thing.”

“Well, I don’t think you have to worry about her any longer.”

“Does that mean you have set your cap on Will?” Ellie asked quietly.

She could never fall in love with a man until she knew the truth about herself. “No, Ellie.”

Ellie shrugged. “That is a shame. Of all the women interested in him, I like you the best.”

Elizabeth had no idea how to reply. She couldn’t tell Ellie that William was the only man she’d ever really desired. That would only encourage her. “Thank you, but I am not interested in your brother.”

“Very well, I must get the children ready for bed.” Ellie stood and walked toward the door. She stopped and then looked back at Elizabeth. “If you do change your mind, I shall support you in any way I can.”

“No, Ellie.” Elizabeth shook her head as Ellie walked out the door.

She hoped she’d convinced his sister. Now she just had to convince herself.

Will watched Elizabeth enter the study. She looked calmer and more relaxed than at dinner. “Good evening, Elizabeth.”

“Good evening to you, William.”

Will just chuckled. “Do you think you could call me Will? The only time I was called William was when I was in trouble.”

She nodded as she took her seat across the large expanse of his cherry desk. “As you wish, Will.”

“I know we had talked about reviewing our family history, but I would rather try to make some headway on these invitations.”

“Very well,” Elizabeth said, looking relieved. She reached for the stack of invitations she had reviewed earlier. “The dowager Countess of Cantwell is a must. However, the ball is in three days so only you would be attending.”