Read Online Amelia Grey - [Rogues' Dynasty 06] by The Rogue Steals a Bride - Free Book Online Page A

sarcenet, linen, and muslin that had been unrolled and strewn across the chairs, tables, and settees. The bundles of cloth were littered with various spools of lace, ribbons, and braided piping. Not only were Sophia and her two aunts in the room, but also Mrs. Franco and her two helpers, who were busily unrolling more trim for Sophia to choose from.
    Sir Randolph couldn’t hide his surprise that his orderly, eccentrically appointed drawing room had been turned into a dressmaker’s shop. Being a confirmed bachelor, he would not be used to having three ladies take over his quiet house.
    “Oh, Sir Randolph,” June said. “It is so wonderful that you came in just now. We would love to have your opinion on Sophia’s new gowns for the Season.”
    He backed up a step. “No, Miss Shevington, I’m not qualified to judge a young lady’s wardrobe.”
    Mae picked up an ivory-colored gown trimmed with braided yellow ribbons. “Nonsense, of course you are. All gentlemen know what makes a young lady look beautiful and what doesn’t. I think this should be the one she wears to Lord Tradesforke’s party.” Mae held the dress up against Sophia. “What do you think?”
    “Dear me, Mae,” June said, swiping a champagne-colored gown trimmed with pale green lace off one of the settees. “That sheer overlay doesn’t have enough color, and it washes out all the pink in her cheeks.” June marched over to Sophia and held the gown up to her face. “Look at this with her hair and eyes, Sir Randolph. This is what she needs to wear to highlight the green in her eyes. Don’t you agree?”
    Sir Randolph looked from one aunt to the other and took another uncomfortable step back. “As I said, ladies, I’m not one to ask about a young lady’s clothing. I didn’t realize you had this—this going on in here today. I have some things to pick up from my book room, and then I’ll be on my way out again.”
    “Oh, but please,” June called to his retreating back. “We didn’t have time to report that after you left last evening, Sophia was presented to Lord Snellingly.”
    “And he has already asked to call on Sophia and read his poetry to her,” Mae added.
    “That reminds me,” June said, turning to Mae. “We must see to it that Sophia works on her poetry this afternoon. I’m sure Lord Snellingly will want to read it.”
    Sir Randolph paid them no mind and kept walking.
    That comment put Sophia in motion. “Yes, wait, Sir Randolph.” Sophia stepped off her stool and started after him.
    “Sophia, where are you going? Mrs. Franco isn’t finished.”
    “I’m terribly sorry, Auntie, I won’t be long. I must ask Sir Randolph something before he leaves again.” She picked up a bolt of cloth and stuffed it into her aunt’s arms. “I like this one. Would you mind picking out the perfect pattern and trim for it?”
    June’s eyes brightened. “Why, yes, of course, I’d love to.”
    “And I’ll help her,” Mae added.
    “Thank you.” Sophia smiled at both her aunts and rushed into the corridor. She saw Sir Randolph disappearing into his book room.
    Sophia skidded to a stop when she made it to his open doorway. He was standing by the side of his desk, gathering papers together. “May I come in?” she asked.
    He looked over at her and smiled. “You are always welcome to come in. What can I do for you?”
    “I’m sorry we took over your drawing room and made such a disarray of it.”
    Sir Randolph laid the stack of papers back on his desk and chuckled lightly. “I have to admit I had no idea what it would be like to have three ladies living in my house. I’ve not been distracted by your presence, Sophia. I am enjoying having you here with me, and I’m happy to tolerate your aunts because it keeps you here.”
    Sophia smiled. “I know my aunts can create a fuss at times.”
    “Indeed.”
    “I enjoy being here, too, Sir Randolph, but if your privacy is invaded more than you can accept and we are too much of a bother,