The Perfect Suitor (Bewildering Love Series) Read Online Free PDF Page A

cherished asset,” she exclaimed, and Eve couldn’t help but roll her eyes skyward. Their mother had always told them that, in order to capture the perfect suitor, one had to hold on to her virginity for their husband. Although Eve knew this was important, she felt the endless warnings tiresome.
    “So are you going to stay away from him?” Cassie asked.
    “I will.” Eve grinned seductively and gave her sister her best come hither look. “Unless, he comes to me.”
    “Oh no! Look out, Lord Devonhurst! Here comes Evelyn Manning!” Cassie laughed as Eve sashayed by practicing a sultry look over her shoulder. “That is a good one,” Cassie insisted. “You should use that one.” Cassie came to her feet and imitated her sister. “How do I look?”
    Eve nodded her approval. “Very alluring, Cassie. Try not to pucker your lips so much.”
    Eve noticed their mother watching them from the window as they did their best portrayal of an alluring miss. Mother did an exaggerated sashay out to them. Her daughters laughed at her overly sensational arrival. “I see we are practicing. I came to tell you both that we have a long evening planned, including two parties. It would be wise if we all took a short nap.”
    Eve saw Cassie’s face fall. She was saddened by the news. Mother noticed and went to lift Cassie’s chin. “That includes you too, dearest. Your father and I have decided that, since we are both attending tonight’s festivities and since you are leaving for the country tomorrow, one night out in the city will help to prepare you for your Season.”
    Cassie hugged her mother in her excitement and then they all went to seek out their beds.
    Eve had a hard time falling asleep. She kept wondering if she would see the earl tonight. What should I wear? What is his favorite color? Will he approach me? Will he ask me for a dance? Or will he truly ignore my existence? She had promised she wouldn’t seek him out, but if he didn’t approach her, if he didn’t at least smile in her direction…
    She scolded herself. She had to put him out of her mind. Tonight she would meet many eligible men and perhaps even the man of her dreams.

CHAPTER FOUR
    Paxton and Lydia stood in the entrance of the glittering ballroom. The parquet floor gleamed from numerous layers of wax and candles shimmered from every mirrored wall. The painted ceiling was done in separated sky scenes, puffy white clouds on top of which sat tiny chubby cherubs observing the sea of people below.
    “It’s beautiful,” Lydia exclaimed as she looked at the marble statues in niches lining the entryway.
    Paxton felt the entrance a little overdone for his tastes, but he agreed that it had quite an effect on the viewer. “The Countess of Madison takes great pride in her home and her gatherings. The earl is often out of the country, and the parties seem to be a way for the countess to entertain herself.”
    The Countess of Madison walked up in her pale green muslin gown with an elaborate lace collar. She also wore a dark green turban with a white feather plume.
    “Lady Madison,” Paxton said in greeting as he bowed and kissed her white-gloved hand. She was a lovely woman in her middle years known for her flirtatious behavior with any man who crossed her path. None of the wives seemed to mind, knowing her flirting was all for show.
    “Lord Devonhurst. It is wonderful to see you. You usually break my heart by not attending my functions; however, since you are here now, I shall forgive you. I do hope you will save me a dance.” She ran her index finger along his forearm.
    “Of course, my lady,” Paxton agreed.
    The countess turned her attention to Lydia. “And this must be your sister, Lady Lydia. It is nice to meet you.”
    Lydia curtsied and smiled. “I’m honored to be here, my lady.”
    Lady Madison smiled and looked at Paxton. “She is charming. Do enjoy yourselves.” She grinned at Lydia and flicked her fan at Paxton before turning to greet more