Free Andrea Kane by Gold Coin Page B

nothing of consequence. No grand business ventures had been planned, no innovative ways to invest her inheritance had been explored. To the contrary, other than learning the value of her father’s estate and having Lord Sheldrake shoot down her investment plans, the entire meeting had been immaterial.
    She looked up at that moment, met the marquess’s scrutinizing gaze, and instantly averted her eyes.
    Perhaps not entirely immaterial.
    “Before we finish dessert, I have a bit of news I’d like to share.” George leaned forward, for the first time addressing everyone at the table. “I’ve given Anastasia’s situation a great deal of thought. It was Henry’s wish that I bring her out, introduce her to all the right people. I’ve decided to do just that.”
    With a tight smile of self-approval, he continued. “I’m going to host a house party—a substantial house party— in Anastasia’s honor. Several hundred people will be invited. It will include two or three days of diversions, including a grand ball to introduce Anastasia to high society. My niece will be brought out in true Colby style, with all the grace and distinction Henry would have wanted.”
    Anastasia started. This was the last thing she’d expected, especially knowing her uncle as she did. His mind was preoccupied with business, not parties, and his motives were never selfless—even if he was using her father’s money to pay for all this. The bottom line was, what possible benefit could holding an event of this magnitude have for him?
    “Uncle George,” she responded carefully. “That’s really not necessary. I appreciate your sentiments, but I don’t think Papa expected …”
    “Nonsense.” George waved away her protest. “You’re the only daughter of my only brother. I insist.” He turned to Damen Lockewood, who was watching him with an unreadable expression on his face. “What do you think of the idea, Sheldrake?”
    The marquess cleared his throat. “I think it has merit. After all, Henry set aside ten thousand pounds for this occasion. So there are more than enough funds available, as I’m sure you know.” A pointed pause ensued— enough to make Anastasia wonder if Lord Sheldrake was thinking along exactly the same lines as she was. “When did you want to hold this party?”
    George shifted in his chair, noticeably flustered by the marquess’s reference to his source of capital. “As soon as possible. In a week, perhaps. I’ll send out the invitations this very day.”
    “A week?” Anastasia echoed. “Isn’t that a little ambitious? From what I recall, Mama and Papa used to receive invitations to parties of this size at least a fortnight in advance. That was the only way to ensure none of the balls would conflict.”
    “During the Season, that’s true,” her uncle returned. “But the Season is long past. So we don’t run the risk of such conflicts.”
    “Yes,” Damen agreed. “Which brings up a different problem. Much of the ton is either in Brighton, Bath, or traveling abroad. Why not wait for the fall when everyone is back?”
    “Because by then, Anastasia will have endured two months of loneliness and grief,” George replied with a generosity of spirit that nearly made Anastasia gag. “This way, she’ll remember her first summer here as a joyous one, filled with laughter and festivities.” He gave a careless shrug. “The majority of those I know have remained in England for the summer. As for Brighton and Bath—neither are too far from here to travel.”
    “I suppose not.” Lord Sheldrake brought his wineglass to his lips, savoring the final drops. “Fine. A house party it is.”
    “Excellent.” George sank back in his chair. “I’d appreciate your advice with regard to the guest list. I want the most influential members of society here.”
    “Influential—does that include businessmen?” Anastasia came abruptly to life.
    “Yes.” Her uncle shot her an odd look. “Of course. Businessmen,