Chapter 40

Emily clung to Godric's side, nervous as they entered Cedric's townhouse. His sisters, Miss Sheridan and Miss Audrey, were inside. It was strange, but she wanted to make a good impression.

Cedric caught sight of his sisters. "There you are! Come over here and meet Emily."

The elder, Horatia, was taller, with more classical features, a long neck and sharp cheekbones that reminded Emily of a swan. Though shorter, Audrey was just as pretty, her face rounder and more childlike, but not in a way that hid the intelligence in her eyes.

"Emily, this is my sister, Horatia. Horatia, this is Miss Emily Parr. And this is Audrey." Cedric chucked his littlest sister under her chin.

Horatia gave a warm smile. "Pleased to meet you, Miss Parr."

Emily released her grip on Godric's arm and smiled back. "Please call me Emily."

"Then you must call me Horatia."

"You have a lovely home, Horatia." Emily looked about the expansive marbled floors and gilded furnishings of the hall.