“He’s really quite handsome. Was it wise to bring him here when I’ve invited two young ladies as potential wives for you?”
“You’re afraid they might prefer Ivo to me?”
“It’s possible.”
“They won’t. He hasn’t a penny to his name. If they’re interested now, they won’t be as soon as they find that out.”
“At least that’s a relief.” She took him by the elbow and led him to a young lady who was not pretty but who smiled as he approached. “Hortense, this is my son, Rafe. Rafe, Miss Hortense Lytton.”
“How do you do, Miss Lytton.” Rafe offered a quick bow.
“A pleasure to meet you,” the young woman replied, but no sooner were the words out of her mouth than Edie appeared at his side.
“Hello, Rafe.”
“Hello, Edie. Nice to see you again.”
His mother squeezed his arm and walked away, leaving hi
