Mad

Eloise

Eloise was quiet as she and Michael walked Penelope back to Featherington House. Eloise could see that Penelope was seething with anger and she could not fault her for that. Her brother had behaved abominably. To think that he had any say in who she courted was absolutely preposterous especially after the remarks he had made last season. As they were nearing Featherington House, Eloise looked down at Penelope. Her face was covered in angry red splotches, and she looked as though she was about to murder someone.

"Are you all right Penelope? I must apologize for my brother's actions," said Eloise quietly.

Penelope turned towards her briefly letting go on her arm. "Why would it matter to your brother who I courted? You think that he would be happy that one of his supposed friends was finally receiving attention from the opposite sex."

Eloise looked down at her shoes unsure of what to say. "I am sorry Pen; I do not know what came over him. Although I do think he was correct about Fife. I do not think that he is a good match for you."

"For once, I would have to agree with Eloise Pen, as much as it pains me," said Michael casting a glance at Eloise. "Fife is an absolute scoundrel. You are entirely too good for him."

Eloise smiled at Michael and was grateful that they were on the same page when it came to Lord Fife. Eloise was aware that Penelope and Michael were not actually courting but had become rather good friends. When they initially began spending time together last season, Eloise had felt slightly bereft as if her best friend was being stolen from her, but her feelings changed when she realized how good Michael was for Penelope. Eloise had known Penelope since they had been five years old, and Penelope always struggled with insecurities and her feelings of self-worth. Michael had performed miracles in building back in self-confidence and Eloise had seen a change in her dearest friend. She was now no longer hiding in the corners of ballrooms but an active participant at events. The members of the ton soon realized that who they thought was a perennial wallflower was actually one of the most intelligent and witty young ladies of the ton.

"I am not seriously considering Fife," replied Penelope as she rolled her eyes. "He is indeed a scoundrel, and he never has anything interesting to say other than the amount he won at the gaming tables, and you know how thrilling I find that," said Penelope rolling her eyes once more. "I just do not know why Colin acted that way."

"You are like a sister to him Pen. He is just being a protective brother. I am sure he would be acting the same way if I were being courted by nearly every eligible bachelor in the ton," teased Eloise while Michael let out a snort. Eloise sent Michael a quizzical stare but did not have time to question him as they had arrived at the Featherington's front door.

"Thank you for walking me home," said Penelope her voice weary. "I would invite you in for tea, but I am afraid that I have a bit of a headache. I should like to rest for a while."

"Please think nothing of it Pen. You go and rest. Michael will escort me home," replied Eloise kissing her on the cheek.

"Yes, get some rest Pen. You will need it for when we go riding tomorrow," said Michael which earned him a scowl from Penelope.

"Until tomorrow then," said Penelope before turning her back and making her way into the house.

Eloise and Michael watched Penelope until their butler shut the door behind them. Eloise took Michael's proffered arm as he began to walk her back to Number Five. They had been walking for several moments in silence before she heard Michael clear his throat.

"Did you say something Michael?" asked Eloise.

"Your brother is an idiot," said Michael.

"That he is," replied Eloise as he contemplated Colin's behavior. 'Why had he been so upset about Penelope courting? In her mind he should be happy that his comments did not put Penelope firmly on the shelf. "I just do not understand him."