A Shameful Secret Read Online Free Page B

pleasure to meet you,” Lady Blackwater said “I do enjoy meeting new people.  You will discover that I have a lively curiosity, my dear. She smiled at Hester who realized she was trying to discover her secret. “You must both come to my card party next week. I shall send you an invitation, Charlotte.”
    It was a good beginning, but not the exception. The Countess of Danbury held a leading position in society and was well liked for both her good nature and her generosity. Her cousin must be acceptable and invitations were offered continuously throughout the evening, though many an ambitious mama thought it prudent to make some inquiries about the gel.
    Hester attracted the attention of several gentlemen. While she could not claim to be the sensation of the evening or to have the largest number of admirers queuing up for a dance with her, she was not forced to sit out above twice before supper.
    The young lady attracting most attention was Miss Geraldine Holbeach, the youngest daughter of Lady Holbeach, a matron of advanced years who had given her husband four sons and five daughters.
    Lady Holbeach sat with the other matrons, gossiping and watching her lovely daughter from a distance. Geraldine was a lively, pretty girl who laughed a lot at the gentlemen’s sallies and seemed very innocent. Hester was reminded of herself at the same age and felt a pang of regret. Had she ever been that carefree?
    Once, their gazes met across the room, and Hester responded to the other’s lovely smile. They met just before supper when they both happened to seek the ladies’ restroom at the same time.
    “Oh, bother!” Geraldine said as Hester entered. “I think my flounce is torn at the back, but I cannot quite reach it.”
    “Let me look for you,” Hester offered immediately. “Yes, unfortunately there is a large tear. I have a needle and thread in my reticule—may I mend it for you?”
    “Would you be so kind? It was torn by one of my partners, I’m afraid. He was a little boisterous in the country-dance. I did not want to disturb Mama, and I cannot find an attendant to help me.”
    “My cousin always carries a needle and thread, and I thought it might be useful this evening,” Hester said. She was busy as she spoke, and the tear was very quickly repaired. “There, that will do for now, though your own maid may make a better job another time.”
    “I am sure it is perfect as it is,” Geraldine said. How kind you are. I am afraid I do not know your name.”
    “I am Miss Weston, Hester to my friends. We have not been introduced as yet, though you were pointed out to me. Everyone is talking of you, Miss Holbeach. You have many admirers.”
    Geraldine blushed. “Everyone has been so kind to me. I have no idea why. This was supposed to be just an informal visit with some friends. I shall have my season next year.”
    “You are bound to be a success.”
    “All I wish for is to be happily married,” Geraldine said. “My sisters married well, and Mama says that she expects the same for me, but I would prefer a quiet gentleman like Papa. I like to visit town occasionally, but it would not suit me to be forever there. I am happier in the country with my horses and dogs.”
    “I think you are very wise,” Hester said. “But often one cannot choose whom one loves.”
    “Are you in love with someone?”
    “Oh no,” Hester disclaimed and blushed. “I thought once but . . .” She shook her head, wondering what had prompted her to make such a slip. “Is there a gentleman in particular that you like?”
    “Well, perhaps,” Geraldine admitted. “He isn’t rich, but that does not matter. He is a gentleman, and I think he likes me, but Mama says I should have my chance to see something of life before I settle. So I am to have a season in London next year, for I shall be eighteen quite soon.”
    “Your Mama is not against a marriage to this gentleman?”
    “Not if it is what I truly want.” It was Geraldine’s turn to