Epilogue
Two weeks later
Georgina stared up at the tiny lanterns in the trees all around the back lawn of the De Veirs’ house at the corner of Portman Square.
The De Viers’ ball was known for being held outside and distinctly beautiful.
This year’s theme, the Elysian Fields, had the entire gardens looking like a true nighttime paradise of heroic souls chosen by the Greek gods.
Philip laid his hand on hers where it rested on his arm. “Have you never been to the De Viers’ ball?”
“No. Mother didn’t feel I would behave as she liked. But I heard everything about it from my classmates.” At his frown, she quickly smiled. “And I’m so glad she didn’t allow me to attend. Now this event will be another I experience with you first.”
He smiled even as he shook his head. “Just when I believe I cannot learn more from you, you say something that truly awes me.”
“How is having a first experience with you awe inspiring?”
He lowered his voice and dipped his head closer to her ear. “Because, Georgina, your ability to appreciate the small things reminds me to do so as well. Just having you on my arm brings me great pride.”
She sighed softly, having never brought anyone else pride. The gown she wore most decidedly helped, as it changed colors with the light. “This shimmering gown you purchased for me is truly inspiring.”
“It does no more than reflect your own beauty.”
“I do believe you’re trying to turn my head.”
He chuckled before whispering, “That’s not the only part of you I hope to turn before the end of the night.”
His reminder had her grinning. “Of course. You promised to dance with me twice at a ball to fulfill our very first bet.”
He straightened, obviously surprised. “Actually, I was thinking of something more private, but you’re correct. I owe you at least two dances.”
“Then you better spread them out.”
At the sound of Rose’s warning, Georgina turned to look behind them and found both Rose and Lady Arabella had arrived.
Rose was resplendent in a mauve gown with white lace flowers sewn about the skirts.
Arabella wore a pale-yellow gown with golden leaves set along the neckline and trim.
“You two look beautiful.” She held her hands out to Rose, then lowered them to grasp Arabella’s.
“Georgie, you look like a Greek goddess.”
She felt herself blush. “Thank you.” She lifted her arm to indicate the decorated lawn and garden. “Is this how you imagined the Elysian Fields?”
“To be truthful, I never imagined them at night, but I do think this would be very close. Lady De Viers truly is a visionary. And though I can’t dance yet, I’m going to enjoy this evening to the fullest in my golden chariot.
” Arabella winked. “It’s not every day I get to immerse myself physically in my favorite study. ”
Philip nodded. “Lady Arabella, you’ll definitely want to try the punch. I hear it was created to taste like the gods’ nectar.”
“That will be my first stop after viewing my husbandly prospects and all this beautiful décor.” Arabella looked at the footman behind her. “Wheel me over to that fountain. I do believe that’s a human Poseidon standing in it.”
As Arabella was wheeled away, Philip frowned. “Does she expect to attract a suitor?”
At the angry look on Rose’s face, Georgina quickly explained, “Yes, Arabella has always looked on the bright side of any circumstance, and I believe someone will appreciate that.”
“She’s not an invalid, Lord Durham.” Rose had switched to her regal, ladylike self in an instant. “She was simply in a carriage accident and broke both her legs, some ribs, and her arm. She has complete use of her arm now that I have taken over her care, and her ribs and legs are healed.”
Philip didn’t look convinced.
“You’ll have to excuse my husband, Rose,” Georgina interjected. “He’s not aware of how well trained you are, or that all of us will ensure that Arabella marries as she wishes.”
Philip gave a quick nod. “You’re right. I had forgotten about the tight circle of support you all have. It is quite an asset…when it’s not irritating.”
Rose shook her head. “There will be no need for support. At least not in finding her a husband, but perhaps in having her listen to me. I’ve discovered an ancient Greek theory that may help Arabella to walk sooner, but she’s hesitant. If you have a chance, would you see if you can discover why?”
Georgina looked at Philip then at Rose. “Could it not simply be because it is a theory?”
“Do you think so? Hmm, if that is the case, I’ll have to research further to see if it was tested.
If I can prove to her it was and it worked, I know she’ll try it.
She is quite determined, even though the physicians treat her as an invalid.
I’ve got her standing for short periods of time already, so I know she can walk.
I just need to devise the best way to build up her strength. ”
Rose’s enthusiasm could be overwhelming at times, but that was not something Georgina would ever say, as it would hurt her friend’s feelings.
“Remember in philosophy class when we learned that if we can get someone else to believe a good idea was theirs instead of ours that it will be accepted much faster? Maybe you can try that.”
Rose’s eyes widened. “Yes, that just might work.”
Philip took Georgina’s arm. “Now that that’s settled, I believe I need to dance with my wife.”
Rose grinned at him. “Remember what I said. Don’t dance two in a row.” And with that, she glided off to join Arabella.
As her husband led Georgina up the steps to the large terrace where the band played for the dancers, she admired the Grecian columns that had been erected to outline the area for dancing. Her excitement built at the prospect of finally being able to enjoy more than one dance at a ball.
“Why does Rose insist we not dance twice in a row? If it’s because we’re married, I don’t care. You’re far more important than what people think of us.”
At Philip’s statement, her heart warmed.
He continued to stand by his claim even now, over a fortnight later, that she was more important than the Durham name.
She was very happy she’d thought better about having him let people know he had to marry her for her dowry.
It wouldn’t have reflected well on her, but knowing he would do it had been enough.
“It’s not about our reputation. Rose just means that I tend to have a lot of enthusiasm on the dance floor, and you may need a respite after the first dance. ”
“That your friend thinks I cannot keep in step with my wife is rather insulting. If you wish to dance two at once, I’m happy to partner you.”
The dancers were leaving the dancing area and new people took the space on the terrace. She grinned at his grumpiness. “Let us see how I feel after the first one.”
“As you wish.” Philip took his place opposite her and they waited for the quadrille to start.
Lady Granberry approached with her husband. “If you two are dancing, then so must we.”
Philip smiled a welcome. “Please do.”
Once the music started, Georgina smiled and laughed, enjoying herself immensely.
She loved the footwork, skips, and intricate chains that kept both her mind and body engaged.
Not only was she dancing, her favorite activity, but Philip and Berry were friendly toward each other, and that added to her joy.
When the dance ended, she found herself a bit more tired than usual, and she could see the perspiration on her husband’s brow. As she hooked her arm with Philip’s, she leaned against him. “I think some of that nectar would be best at the moment. We can dance again a bit later.”
“Are you sure? I’m ready to give it another go if you like?”
She shook her head. “I want to look forward to it.”
“You’re a wise woman.” He turned to his sister and brother-in-law. “We are for some punch.”
They all walked over to the stone wall where the punch was set up, and Georgina admired the small fountain that dispensed the nectar as Philip filled two cups. “Here you are.”
She took a sip, surprised by the multitude of flavors. “This is very refreshing, but I have no idea what it’s made of.”
“Allow my brother to tell you.” Berry elbowed Philip. “Go ahead. You know you can.”
“This one is difficult.” He took a sip. “I can tell there is pineapple, orange, sugar, and I believe almond.”
Lord Granberry nodded. “Yes, I taste that. It’s just a hint. But there are spices too, aren’t there?”
Philip nodded before he took another sip.
Georgina held her breath, so proud of her husband’s odd talent and completely in awe of it.
“I believe I’m tasting cinnamon and…black pepper.”
“No.” Berry took another sip, as did they all.
Georgina grinned. “He’s right. I taste it!” She laughed, too pleased.
“You better not let Lady De Viers know you discovered her nectar ingredients. She would be most displeased.” Despite her words, Berry also grinned.
Lord Granberry poured himself another cup. “You forgot to mention the hock.”
Philip nodded. “That is true, I did. I stand corrected.”
“See, my husband has talent, too.” Berry nodded regally. “He can identify alcohol like a hound after a fox.”
Lord Granberry puffed out his chest, pretending great pride, and Georgina couldn’t help laughing. “I’m so pleased you both have a talent you can boast of.”
“As it happens, my Berry also has a talent. Did you know that she can manage an estate?”
Georgina exchanged a look with Berry. “I believe she mentioned that once.”
Berry laughed. “No need to pretend, Georgie. I told my husband of your lessons. It turns out that he appreciates my observations.”
Her husband held his arm out. “I do, but I’m not letting that get around. Come, Berry. I see Lady Redding stroking the statue of Hercules. I don’t think she realizes that’s a live man.”
Berry rolled her eyes before leaving with her husband.
“Would you like to dance again?”
At Philip’s question, Georgina opened her mouth to answer, but yawned instead. “Oh my.”
“Are you tired? We need not stay for the dinner.”
Her curiosity warred with her physical weariness. “I heard it’s to have an erupting volcano as its centerpiece. I wouldn’t want you to miss that.”
Philip took her hand and set it on his arm. “Your health is much more important than a spectacle. Are you unwell?”
“No, just tired. If you don’t mind, I’d rather spend the rest of the night with just you.”
“Then home we’ll go.” He set a sedate pace across the terrace, over the lawn, and through the gardens to the street. It was still a walk to their coach, but finally Philip helped her inside.
As she sank into the cushions, she marveled at how tired she was. She’d been so looking forward to the evening, even resting in the afternoon to prepare. As soon as Philip sat next to her and the coach started out, she looked at him. “That was only one dance, so you still owe me another.”
His brow furrowed as he pulled her close. “I’ll dance with you every ball we attend as long as you’re well. This is not like you. I’m worried.”
She hated that he was worried. It was time to tell him. “Husband, I promise this is a good feeling of tiredness.”
“How can you say that? You didn’t watch birds today or walk in the park. In fact, you did very little.”
She gave him a soft smile. “I know. I’ve been a bit tired all day, but it’s for good reason.”
“Tell me what could possibly be a good reason for my wife to be tired when she never tires unless we’ve made love, which we didn’t do today.”
She took his hand in hers. “Philip, I’m with child.”
His brows rose high. “Child? You’re going to have a child?”
She laughed. “Yes. I’m going to have our child.”
He stared at her in disbelief.
“You’re pleased, are you not?” Surely he wished to have a son, at least.
He opened his mouth then closed it. Then he bent forward, pressing a gentle kiss upon her lips before leaning his forehead against hers.
“You’re a wonder. Not only have you given me a reason to be the best man I can be, but now…
now, I must be the best father. I’m not just pleased.
I’m elated.” He lifted his head and stared into her eyes.
“You will be the most wonderful mother.”
Despite the limited lantern light inside the coach, she could see he meant every word.
“I will do the best I can. I’m sure that Rose or the duchess will insist on being with me for the delivery, so I’m content on that account.
It’s just that we won’t know for seven more months if we will have a boy or a girl. ”
“I don’t care which it is. In fact, I wouldn’t mind a little girl who has so much energy, I can’t keep up with her.”
She smiled, imagining Philip chasing after a child in the gardens at Crestfield. “I think I’d like my first to be a boy, so he can follow you around like you did your father.”
“My mother told you about that?”
“She did. She even told me of the little desk you had.”
He looked away for a moment, but only a moment. When he looked back, his eyes looked suspiciously moist. “I still have that desk.”
Her chest filled with love for him, the child he was, and the child he would soon have. “Then I will bet you that we have a boy.”
“And I will bet you that we have a girl.”
She laid her hand upon his cheek. “What is our wager?”
He placed his hand over hers. “I don’t think we need one. No matter who wins, we will be happy, and that is all that I wish for.”
Her heart filled at his words. “I’m already happy. As long as I can be with you, I know that my life will be filled with love and joy and…”
“And?”
She smiled, her feeling of contentment far more than she’d ever dreamed of. “And creating more children.”
He laughed softly. “I do believe you’ve found something you like even better than dancing.”
“Much better.” She pulled his head toward her and kissed him with all the happiness she felt.
His arms wrapped around her as he pulled her close, and she relaxed into him, ready to leave their pasts behind to focus on their beautiful future together.
The End