by his friend’s knowledge, James fell silent as their hostess returned with her nieces, ushering three other people into the drawing room. Her nephew Sandro, the elder brother of her nieces at twenty-eight, was followed by a good-looking couple. James felt certain they were Aubrey and Rebecca Williamson.
After greetings and introductions had been made, Francesca Lorne led the Williamsons down to the far end of the room, opening the French doors which revealed the garden. They went outside together.
James stepped forward to speak to Irina’s brother, greeting Alexander by his surname, as was the custom. ‘I’m delighted to see you, Parkinson. Natalie tells me you’re doing the scenery for a new play.’
‘Pleasure to see you here tonight, Falconer,’ Alexander answered. ‘And I haven’t quite made my deal yet. However, I am hoping.’ Glancing at Keller, who was talking to Irina, obviously about the icons, he went on. ‘Your colleague appears to be a nice chap.’ Lowering his voice, he added, ‘I have a feeling Natalie rather likes him, not that she’s admitted that to me. Yet …’ He raised a dark brow. ‘What say you, Falconer?’
‘She finds him rather shy, which he is in a way. I like him tremendously. He works hard; he’s a good chap. And most definitely true blue.’ A smile surfaced on James’s face, and he said sotto voce, ‘It wouldn’t surprise me if they hit it off. He’s her type.’
‘And what’s that?’ Parkinson asked, his curiosity apparent.
‘Serious without being stuffy, highly intelligent, honest as the day is long, and not a bad bone in his body. I appreciate him, and he’s taken a great burden off my back. He’s turned the Wine Division around and managed to bring it up to par in Le Havre, where we’ve had problems.’
Before Alexander could say anything, Natalie returned to the drawing room and, standing next to her brother and James, told them, ‘Cook is happy. I’d even go so far as to say delirious … because all the guests have arrived. No spoiled dishes ce soir.’
‘I hope I’m sitting next to you,’ James said, as he noticed Mrs Lorne bringing the other guests inside.
‘You must wait and see,’ Natalie replied, and took hold of her brother’s arm. ‘Let us lead the way, Sandro.’
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