Arthur snorted. “Grantmore is only interested in hunting and fishing, and though his property is a bit larger than this one, it hasn’t the charm Ettesmere Park features.” Pride wove through her brother’s voice. “I rather think you’d have a better time of it here.”
“From what I’ve seen of it already, I like it,” the ambassador was quick to agree. “It’s quite beautiful.” The cadence of his American accent was lovely, and she wished he would speak in longer sentences merely so she could listen to him.
“Thank you.”
“Mr. Mattingly is a fascinating person,” Hannah said as she beamed at the man. “He and I talked at length before coming up here, so we are friends.”
“Then he must have a wonderful character.” Sophia transferred her gaze to him. A faint flush rose over his cravat that was tied in a knot she didn’t recognize. “What do you wish to accomplish during your holiday, Mr. Mattingly?”
“Whatever there can be accomplished.” When he shrugged, the scent of him wafted to her nose. Citrus and sage and hints of man. Threads of awareness went down her spine. It had been all too long since she’d had any sort of reaction for a member of the opposite sex. “While I’m quite familiar with London—and vastly prefer that over the bucolic life—I wish to appreciate the countryside as well. Frankly, I’d like to experience everything. Perhaps open another faucet to myself that will help deepen my understanding when performing my duties.”
“A fine answer.” Approval rang in Arthur’s tone. “I imagine it would also help in trade negotiations once you see farmland for yourself and know what sort of agriculture and cattle England has to offer.”
“Quite possibly.”
Landers returned with the tea service. “Lady Ettesmere, there is some sort of emergency in the kitchens. Two of the maids are fighting, and one has stolen one of Cook’s pots.”
Sophia exchanged a glance with Arthur, who shrugged.
“I’ll attend to it immediately.” Her mother rose from her chair. The men scrambled to their feet. “Ambassador, I hope you feel comfortable enough here and if you wish to stay, I’ll have the housekeeper ready a room.”
“Thank you, Lady Ettesmere.” Then he sat and kept eyeing the tea tray. “If you don’t mind, I’m parched and have been hoping for tea.”
“Of course.” Sophia edged forward. She poured out a cup and handed it to him. When their fingers brushed, heat shot up to her elbow. “Cream or sugar?” Had he felt that reaction too?
“This is fine. Thank you.”
“You are quite welcome.” Her gaze dropped to his mouth while he blew across the top of his cup. Such sensual lips. What would they feel like pressed against hers? Then she chided herself. She’d only just met him, and she wasn’t desperate enough to tug him from the room merely for a kiss.
Was she?
Once she’d prepared cups of tea for her brothers, she did one for Hannah, who declined, so Sophia took it for herself. “How often do you travel, Mr. Mattingly?”
“As much as my position allows.” When he grinned, flutters danced through her lower belly. “I’ve been to France, parts of the Italian region, England, and I’ve had cause to travel through various portions of America.”
Hannah fairly bounced in her chair. “Will you tell me about all those places?”
“If you’d like.”
“Perhaps another time, Hannah.” Arthur cleared his throat. “Since my mother already asked you to stay, I’ll second that opinion. We have plenty of room, and if you don’t mind being caught up in preparations for my wedding that is planned for later this month, we’d love to have you.” The flush had returned, and it was adorable. He was still so embarrassed about his engagement to Julianna.
Sophia frowned. “When did you decide upon a date?”
Her brother shrugged. “A few days ago? I left the bulk of the planning to Mama and Julianna. They picked a date and I agreed.”
Poor thing.He truly had no idea what he was in for. “It’s lovely just the same. I’m looking forward to it.”
“Yes, quite,” Arthur murmured with a distracted air. He glanced at the ambassador. “Regardless, you are welcome here, Ambassador.”
“I thank you for that and will accept most readily.” The man drained his teacup. “But about Lord Grantmore?”
“Write to him of your change in destination. Enjoy the summer festivities here. My mother is planning a masquerade ball soon. You can always continue on to Somerset at a later date if you still desire it.”
“The best of both worlds.” When the ambassador smiled, Sophia’s breath stalled. He was simply enchanting. “I shall pen the letter as soon as I’m settled.”
“Good. Good.” Arthur nodded with a pleased grin as he finished his tea. Then he stood. “Well, I’m off. I have ledgers to look over, and then I promised to take Julianna on a stroll this evening along the stream. It’s one of her favorite places on property.” A trace of red showed over his cravat.
Obviously, that location held some significance to them both.