“She was Ada’s suggestion, actually.” Evie glanced toward Ada. “I think it’s highly likely she’d accept the offer.”

Emma’s expression darkened. “This will upset Millie.”

“Yes,” Ada acknowledged slowly. “But it may also dilute her voice, which would benefit us all.”

“I can’t argue with that,” Emma said. “You have my support. I daresay Harriet will also agree.” She referred to the fourth and final patroness, Mrs. Holland-Ward.

“She and Lady Edgemont are friendly, I believe,” Ada noted.

“Yes. That should help matters.” Emma fixed them both with a serious stare. “Is your goal to drive Millie out? As I said, I don’t think she’ll resign.”

Evie didn’t want to be completely transparent, not with anyone other than Ada and Lucien. “Our goal is to establish a more pleasant atmosphere.”

Emma smiled. “I can’t find any fault with that. Do we need to speak with Lord Lucien or have the membership committee approve this appointment?”

“Lady Edgemont is already a member, so we won’t need any input from the committee,” Evie said. “We’ve never added a patroness, so I’m not entirely certain what’s required. I suspect we’ll be making it up as we go.” She smiled. “I’ll go and speak with Lucien now, then find you later to confirm that we patronesses are able to add someone.”

Emma cocked her head and looked at Ada. “Why aren’t we also adding Ada? She would be an excellent patroness. She already comes to most of our meetings during the Season, and we truly couldn’t do without her input and expertise when it comes to planning events. Furthermore, a sixth patroness will only lighten the atmosphere even more.”

Evie suddenly wanted to bang her head against the wall. Of course they should add Ada. She was Lady Warfield, for heaven’s sake! Not that a title was necessary to be a patroness. Adding her would only needle Millie further. “That is an excellent idea, isn’t it, Ada?”

Ada gaped at them for a moment. “I’m speechless, which doesn’t happen often.”

Evie and Emma laughed, and Ada joined in.

“You must,” Emma insisted.

“I would be honored,” Ada said softly. “But I know you need Mrs. Holland-Ward, at least, to agree.”

Evie didn’t think any of them expected Millie to support either addition, but all they needed was a majority.

“She will,” Emma said with confidence. She turned to Evie. “You’ll speak with Lucien.”

“I will.” He would be as annoyed with himself as Evie had been for not thinking of Ada at the start. “He may also have suggestions,” Evie added, thinking of their conversation and his intent to speak with the secret committee members.

“Then we are in motion.” Evie regarded them with a slightly narrowed eye. With any luck, Millie would find her way out.

Chapter 11