The Spinster & The Coquette Read Online Free Page A

rising into gentility and prosperity .”
    “ Cordelia ?!” the older sister gasped, “What on earth are you doing?”
    “I am resting my head in Frank’s lap as I read.” Cordelia looked inappropriately innocent as she uttered her inadequate answer. “I am sure he does not mind too much.” Judging from the smile on the young man’s lips, Cordelia knew she was correct.
    “Sit up at once !” her sister demanded.
    Cordelia sensed Frank’s affinity for her from the moment he laid eyes on her, and she did not want to sit up and spoil his fun. The boy had such a sheltered existence—getting cozy with Cordelia was likely the most exciting event of his young life. She opted to ignore her sister’s demands and continued to read, undaunted.
    Though she heartily disapproved of her sister’s brazen behavior, Hester said nothing more. She knew Cordelia would not listen to reason, nor could she be discouraged once she had an idea in her mind. Furthermore, Frank looked positively delighted by her closeness—the poor boy simply could not stop staring at her pretty, young sister. Hester hoped Cordelia would not play with the boy’s heart. Even more so, she hoped their father would never hear of Cordelia’s increasing boldness, for he was already distressed by her deteriorating reputation in London. Cordelia was hardly a lightskirt, but her ceaseless flirting made her appear as such. Sending her to Plymouth was the only way to end the gossip and discourage the rakes.
    Caddish Lord Cavendish was out of their life—temporarily—but nothing had changed. Hester studied her younger sister, nestled in Frank’s lap, and wondered if she had traded one inappropriate flirtation for another. Cordelia was truly an incorrigible young woman.
    “ Now, upon his father’s marriage, it was generally proposed, as a most proper attention .”
    “ Cordelia ,” Hester suddenly hissed her sister’s name. “Try to look decent. Our aunt is heading toward us.”
    Cordelia sat up immediately, straightened her hair, and adopted an air of impeccable composure. “Do you think she saw me lying on Frank’s lap?”
    “From her vantage point, I doubt it. Nevertheless, you would do well to be more careful.” To the young man, Hester added, “And you as well, Frank.”
    As Hyacinth approached, she exclaimed, “Girls! I have wonderful news!”
    There was a subsequent pause, which prompted Cordelia to say, “ Well ? Do not keep us in suspense, Aunt!”
    “We have been invited to an assembly at Lord Tipton’s estate in honor of his daughter’s debut in society. Compared to the lavish balls in London, I am sure it shall be a rather small affair, but it should afford you an opportunity to meet the local gentry. I will be your chaperone, of course.”
    “Will we be meeting any young gentlemen?” Cordelia asked; her eyes lit up at the thought of it. Nothing made her happier than flirting and dancing and being doted on.
    “Of course, dear. Of course. I will help you choose the most suitable attire. You will want to look your best, but… perhaps nothing too extravagant.”
    “I have a pale blue gown that should suit the occasion,” Cordelia said.
    “Perhaps I should let you borrow my mother’s necklace? She was your grandmother, of course. I am sure she would be happy to see it passed on to such a lovely young woman.”
    As Cordelia and her aunt prattled about the dance party, Hester met Frank’s gaze and sighed. He could see she was far less ardent than her sister, so he whispered, “As you might have guessed, I wasn’t invited. And even if I was invited, I would not go.”
    “I do so wish I could avoid going. I would much rather stay behind with you.” Hester dragged her hand along her face in despair. “Wallflowers are far less eager than social darlings like Cordelia. I never dance, nor am I ever asked to dance.”
    “And dancing…” Frank continued in a whisper, “is not something I am particularly skilled at. I am sure you are