Free Desperately Seeking Suzanna by Elizabeth Michels Page A

arms. That’s what drove away…”
    “Lord Amberstall. I’m aware, Mother.”
    “Well, it bears repeating. Evangeline, I’ve made a list of available gentlemen who would suit well for you.”
    “Did you make me a list as well, Mother?”
    “I simply didn’t have the time for that, Sue. There were so many preparations to make, you know.”
    “I see.” Sue focused on the passing scenery, trying to tune out the discussion of Evangeline’s marriage prospects.
    “Evangeline, look over this list and remember the names.” Mother handed Evangeline a piece of parchment and settled back into her seat. “When introductions are made, I want you to already know their rank in society, ancestral lineage, and interests. We have plenty of time on the ride to London, so let us begin with my first choice for you.”
    “Yes, Mother. First on the list is…Lord Steelings.”
    Sue choked. Clearing her throat, she turned to see the panic-stricken look on her sister’s face. She must know he was the man at the base of the stairs. She had to know they’d danced together. Now, he would be involved with Evangeline?
    “Ah, yes. He is the perfect choice for you, Evangeline. He’s but a viscount now—courtesy title, you know.” Mother wrinkled her nose in distaste. She had no use for anyone less than an earl like Father. “However, when his father passes, he will be a marquess! His cousins are the Fairlyns’ new neighbors. So, of course, just for you, dear, I called on his aunt and mentioned you while we were visiting. I wouldn’t doubt that his attentions will be turned on you these next few weeks.”
    She smiled, smoothing the folds of her skirt, clearly pleased with her preparations. “I know a viscount title is not the highest in the land, but his father is quite well positioned. And I’ve heard his estate is quite fine indeed. It’s said to have a nature walk and a lake. Just the place for my darling daughter to throw parties one day. Can you imagine?”
    “Mother, I…um…wouldn’t want to spend the remainder of my days on an estate such as that. I…I don’t like the water.” Evangeline’s words rushed out, betraying the small lie in her reasoning.
    “Don’t stutter, Evangeline. You know how I despise that. But as for your objection, I hear Lord Steelings hardly ever visits his father. And once you do move there, the grandness will more than make up for any hesitation over water being about. You will do well, my girl.”
    “Oh. I’m pleased you think so.” Evangeline’s hands tightened into fists in her lap.
    “Let us move on to Lord Steelings’ interests.”
    Sue didn’t want to hear any more. She turned to look out the window. What a lovely…field. It was ever so…green. And look, there’s a stone wall. And another…field. Ah, a tree—how nice.
    Despite her efforts, her mother’s voice still penetrated her thoughts. “From what I gather, he is quite interested in travel and…”
    “French trollops,” Sue supplied under her breath as she kept her focus on the passing scenery.
    “Sue Green! We do not speak of such things! He may have spent time abroad but he is home now, and we will not speak of the background of a gentleman who could very well be your brother-in-law soon.”
    Sue turned, leveling a glare at her mother. “They’ve yet to even meet, Mother.”
    “Sue, I will not hear one more word from you, or the end of your season will begin rather soon.” Her mother’s thin eyebrows had climbed all the way to her hairline, making her eyes bulge from her face.
    “Yes, ma’am,” Sue ground out through a clenched jaw.
    “Now, where was I? Ah yes, Lord Steelings’ interests. According to his aunt, he is quite interested in antiquities and has a sizable art collection.”
    “Wouldn’t he be more appropriate for Sue, then? With the interest in art and all,” Evangeline offered in a small voice, causing Sue’s head to whip around to regard her sister.
    “Heavens no. Sue could never