Nicholas had no interest in playing her games. He snorted. “I’d rather keep my fiancée away from you. Now, are we done?”
“Oh, my,” she said with a giggle. “Yes, I recall now. I recognize her companion. They were at the millenary purchasing masks, and she had asked my advice. How odd. She denied she would be attending your ball. Now, why would she do that, Nicholas?”
With his heart pounding in his chest, Nicholas glanced at the clock. Miss Jenny had mentioned that she and Miss Dunston were required to return to the school by eleven o’clock. That meant she would be leaving in thirty minutes. He wanted the opportunity to speak to her again, but he also wanted to rid himself of Lady Ayles.
“It has been a pleasure seeing you again, Jane,” he said. “But I’ve other guests I must entertain. If you wish for the company of an eligible gentleman, I can introduce you to a few.”
Her lower lip moved forward again. “There is no need. But don’t forget my request. As I said, I’ll require funds for my estate. One hundred pounds a month should suffice.”
Nicholas stared at her in disbelief. “It seems I haven’t made myself clear. I have no interest in providing a loan or seeing you again. Tonight was an exception to the rule. We had an agreement, which I’ve honored. After tonight, we’ll not see each other again.”
As he moved to walk away, she grabbed his arm. “You’re right. We did have an agreement of sorts, but plans tend to go awry. One hundred pounds a month is what you’ll give me.” He went to pull away, but then she leaned in closer and whispered, “And if not, I’ll tell the schoolgirl about our history together. It shouldn’t be too difficult to convince her that she can never compete with me.”
Nicholas smiled. “It would not bother her.”
“She’s supposed to be from Manchester yet attends school here? Now that is an odd story. I think Lord Tulk would find my thoughts on it quite interesting.”
Clenching his fist, Nicholas glared at her. “Blackmail? I’ll not stand for this, Jane.”
“Oh, don’t worry,” she said with a dismissive wave of her hand. “It won’t be long before I’m ready to move on to someone better suited to me. But we’ll speak tomorrow when I collect the first payment.”
Nicholas rubbed his temples. What was he to do? He had no choice but to pay her, lest she aroused Lord Tulk’s suspicions.
“What a wonderful evening this has been,” Lord Tulk said as Nicholas walked up to join him and Miss Jenny. “And the company of your lovely fiancée has made it exceptionally so.” His voice was slurred, and he swayed on his feet.
“It most certainly does,” Nicholas said as he smiled at Miss Jenny. After being forced to endure time alone with Lady Ayles, returning to this lovely creature’s company was a welcome relief. “But I’m afraid that I made a promise to her father to have her home by a certain hour. Forgive me, but I must see she reaches her carriage safely.”
The marquess sighed. “Now, don’t forget what I’ve said, Miss Clifton. You know where to send word.”
“I’ll not forget, my lord. And do expect a letter very soon.”
Nicholas frowned. Surely, she was not considering corresponding with this man?
No, she’s merely playing the role of a dutiful future hostess.
Before the marquess could stop them—or worse, ask to accompany them—the trio made its way toward the door that led to the corridor. Just as they reached the door, however, a gentleman in a green and yellow mask covered in a variety of paste gems stepped in front of them, blocking their way.
“May I have a moment of your time?”
Watching Miss Jenny walk away, he said, “Yes, of course. But give me a few moments.”
He hurried after Miss Jenny, who was at the front door, Osborne helping her don her coat.
“I’m sorry about being away for so long,” he said, taking the woolen muffler and offering to help her wrap it around her neck. “Are you well?”
Miss Jenny nodded. “Lord Tulk seems pleased to be here,” she said. “He’s overindulged but is happy. You have nothing with which to concern yourself.”
Nicholas did not miss the tone of frustration in her voice. Something must have happened, and knowing what he did about Lord Tulk, the possibilities knotted his stomach.
“Was he improper in any way?”
“No,” she replied, her tone curt.
“I want to thank you for the part you played tonight,” he said. “By entertaining Lord Tulk, you’ve helped me further my cause.”
“Of course. I’m your friend, and that is what friends do.” She turned to Osborne. “Please alert the driver that we are ready to leave.”
Was she upset because he was away for so long? Or because he was unable to share what he could not. Regardless, it was clear she was displeased.