“What is it, Rutgers?” She and Royal yet remained in London. Royal refused to return to the country as long as his brother needed his help. “You’ve a visitor, Your Grace. Lady Annabelle Townsend. Shall I send her in?” “Why, yes, please do.” Lily felt a stirring of excitement. She and Annabelle had become friends when Anna had helped her and Royal as they worked to regain the fortune that had been swindled from Royal’s father. “Lily!” Annabelle hurried forward, heavy silk skirts rustling as she moved. “It is so good to see you!” “You as well, Anna.” The women briefly embraced. “It has been too long since last we spoke.” “Yes, it has.” Lily rang for tea and they chatted pleasantly until the tea cart rattled into the drawing room. Seated on the sofa, Lily filled two gold-rimmed porcelain cups, added lumps of sugar, set two sweet biscuits on each saucer and offered a serving to Annabelle. “I hope you don’t mind my intruding this way,” Anna said, stirring her tea and sending the scent of jasmine into the air.
