Athena was in no mood for small talk when her mind was thrumming with plans. She dismissed Brinkley and waited until he had shut the sitting room door behind him. “Cecily… I have a great favor to ask of you.”
“Indeed?” Cecily leaned forward. “Pray, tell me.”
“I have decided to take a short excursion to the mountains. While I am gone, I would be most honored if you would assume final preparations for the Winter Ball.”
“An excursion?” A faint shadow marred Cecily’s alabaster brow. “Why would you wish to visit the mountains at such a—” Her expression cleared. “Athena, you cannot mean to go to the ranch.”
“Yes. I have received correspondence from Harry French which suggests that Miss Hughes is not recovering as swiftly as we might wish. I feel that I must offer my friendship and every encouragement at this crucial time, which I cannot do here.” She met Cecily’s stare without apology. “I am aware that Niall does not wish me to go, but Miss Hughes’s condition outweighs such personal considerations. I am sure you understand.”
Cecily tugged at the fingertips of her white kid gloves. “I am afraid that I must advise against it, my dear. Not only is it likely to upset your brother, but this is hardly the time of year for such travel. And how would you go? You cannot drive yourself.”
“I don’t intend to. I can arrange everything, if you will agree not to speak of this to my brother until I am back in Denver.”
“Isn’t Mr. Munroe in Chicago?”
“Yes, and he is not to return until the day of the ball. I will be safely home in good time.” Athena clenched her hands in her lap. “I know that you are very fond of my brother, Cecily. It is possible that you may hear from him. That is why I request that you say nothing of this beforehand. No harm will be done by it.”
Cecily sighed and took on a pensive air. “You know that I am your friend, dear Athena, but I do not feel quite comfortable in deceiving your brother. And I must be concerned for you, as well. Even if you take your maid—”
“I will be going alone. I do not wish to involve the servants, though of course they will know where I am.”
“I see.”
It was obviously time to bargain. Athena had some familiarity with the method, for she had used persuasion many times when soliciting the sometimes reluctant contributions of the lions—and lionesses—of Denver society. She was sorry for the need to manipulate Cecily, but what she intended to say was not very far from the truth.
“It is a great deal to ask,” she admitted, “and I abhor deception just as much as you do. But in many ways I have come to think of you as a sister. I consider it an excellent sign that my brother is not so much alone as he has been in the past.”
Her gentle hint did not go unnoticed. Cecily straightened, and her eyes took on a certain gleam.
“I am flattered that you think so, Athena.” She lowered her gaze. “I… I fear I have not been particularly successful in concealing my affection for Mr. Munroe.”
Athena relaxed. “My brother can be quite stubborn, but he is blessed with many fine qualities. I will keep your assistance in this matter between the two of us, and Niall will know only of your tireless work for charity and the constancy of your friendship.”
Cecily was quiet for several minutes, and Athena wondered if perhaps she had gone too far in suggesting the bribe of her influence with Niall. He had shown more attention to Cecily than he did most women, and a good word or two on Athena’s part might make the difference.
Athena wondered why she had not more actively encouraged Niall to consider Cecily as a wife. She had recognized the possibility of it from the beginning of her acquaintance with the older woman—she had seen Cecily’s strong interest in Niall—yet she hadn’t pursued the scheme in spite of the advantages.
Niall could not be driven, in any case, and heaven help the woman who tried. The girl he chose to love must be far stronger than his sister was.