If only there was a way to invite her to break her fast with him. His mother was in residence, but a niggling voice told him inviting only Lady Eleanor would not be proper. He would have to arrange for a group to attend the breakfast. But that would defeat his purpose of trying to spend time with her alone. “Then what will you do?”

“She will do what her sisters have done before her.” Lady Worthington had apparently turned her attention to John and Lady Eleanor’s conversation. He wondered if her ladyship had known which direction his mind had taken. “She will have toast and tea before she goes out and after riding she will join the family for breakfast.” Lady Worthington gave him a considering look. “My lord, you are welcome to break your fast with us if you wish. It is no trouble at all.”

“Early breakfast?” St. Albans piped up, as if he had not been eating with John but starving instead.

Lady Worthington laughed lightly. “You may join us as well.”

John wondered if she was used to taking in strays.

“Thank you, my lady.” St. Albans smiled broadly, but Lady Alice did not look as pleased as he obviously was.

A quick glance at Lady Eleanor told John nothing. Well, in for a penny, in for a pound. “I am happy to accept your invitation, my lady. Would tomorrow be too soon?”

She picked up her cup and looked at him over the rim. “Not at all.”

Lady Alice raised one brow at Lady Eleanor, who gave an imperceptible shrug. Did she not care at all if he spent more time with her? He had thought that after their waltz she would feel the same way he did, but perhaps not. Still, John would stay with his decision. What was the saying, nothing ventured, nothing gained? Lord, he hadn’t thought of so many clichés at once since he was a child and trying to make a point.

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER TWELVE

Lady Worthington rose, and the rest of them did as well. “It has been a very pleasant evening. However, we must depart.” She inclined her head to him and St. Albans. “Gentlemen, I shall see you in the morning after your ride.”

He bent his head so that only Lady Eleanor could hear him. “I would be happy to escort you out.”

“Thank you.” Her finely arched brows drew together slightly, causing a line to form between her eyes. “Are you sure you do not wish to remain?”

There was no reason to stay if she was gone. From the corner of his eye, he saw that his mother and sister had risen as well. Lytton would escort them down. “I am positive. My mother and sister are ready to depart.”