“Oh? Need some fortification after that strenuous dance.”
James laughed. “Hardly. That dance was the highlight of the night. I hate to tell Caroline but her parties are rather dull.”
“She may be our baby sister, but don’t ever tell her that or she’ll have your head.”
“I know that.”
“So who was the woman? I don’t recognize her.”
“A friend of Caroline’s from Miss Templeton’s Refinement School.”
“And?”
James turned and stared at Simon. “And what?”
“Marriage material?”
James stole a glance toward the woman’s position. “Far too early to tell yet. Miss Stone was rather quiet but spoke well of the country life. I don’t believe she would miss Society.”
“That would be an asset.” Something struck him. “Miss Stone?” Wasn’t that the same name Charlie had mentioned?
“Yes, Miss Anna Stone.”
“Miss Anna Stone.”
“That is what I said,” James replied and cocked a brown brow at him. “Why?”
What had Charlie said about her? Caroline knew he had an infatuation with Miss Stone. “James, did Caroline introduce you to Miss Stone?”
“Yes, why?”
“Why indeed?” Simon mused. Something seemed very odd here. Why would Caroline introduce her friend to James if she knew Charlie was interested? “I need to speak with Caroline.”
“Good luck with that,” James replied. “The only time I have seen her today was when she introduced me to Miss Stone.”
“I will find her.” Simon drained his brandy and went in search of his scheming little sister.
Scanning the room, he saw her on the other side of the room. He strode through the crush but his stride turned to an amble as the crowd paused him far too many times. By the time he reached the other sid
e of the room, Caroline was gone. He swore softly under his breath but still drew the attention of a matron who frowned at him.
He searched again, only to find her dancing with her husband. At least now he had his target in sight and could move to the edge of the dance floor in wait. He tapped his foot in time with the music as the dancers moved across the floor. Finally, the music ended.
Caroline noticed him and smiled. She and Richard walked toward him. “There you are, Simon. Why aren’t you with Mia?”
“I need to speak with you in private, Caroline.”
“Can it wait? I need to make certain everything is ready for supper.”
“No, it cannot wait.” He took his sister’s elbow and escorted her out of the room. They walked into Richard’s study and Simon closed the door behind him.
“What is going on, Simon?”
“That’s what I am trying to determine. Why did you introduce Miss Stone to James?”
Caroline tilted her head and frowned. “Why not? I thought they would suit each other. They both prefer country life over Society and he needs someone who won’t miss London.”
“But what about Charlie?”