A Well-Trained Lady (Seasons of Change Book 4)

by Jess Heileman

  “No. I fear I must hurry back to Mrs. Leavitt.” He rubbed his stomach, as though consoling it over the thought of missing out on cake. “She does not like to be long without me in her current state, and, unfortunately, the man I just saw about repairs for my stables had much to say regarding his thoughts on … well, everything, really. I’m now running behind schedule, so I must be brief.”

  I stilled, preparing myself emotionally for the news of my immediate removal from Fairhaven.

  Mr. Leavitt reached into his pocket and pulled out two letters. “I received a letter for you several days ago with your mother’s seal.” He appraised my expression. “I thought it a very strange occurrence, indeed, and wrote your father to see what it was about.”

  “Mother had already left for her sister’s when”—I paused, uncertain how to word the Leavitts’ failing to follow through with their invitation in a way to not give offense—“the Brundages offered to let me stay here. I suppose that is where the confusion came in.”

  Mr. Leavitt gave a tentative nod, though he appeared far from convinced. “I suppose that is similar to what your father has declared, though he mentioned giving your mother the wrong directions, or something or other, and here I am, hand delivering your missives like a regular post boy.” He held out both letters and pointed at the top one with his other hand. “A second one arrived this very morning.”

  My gaze moved from the letters to him. “And is this the only reason you have come all this way?”

  “Well, that and to see your pretty face.”

  My relief was instantaneous, and I happily accepted the letters. “I hope it was not too much trouble then.”

  Mr. Leavitt swatted his now empty hand at the air between us. “We are practically neighbors to Fairhaven. Our own estate is not even twelve miles from here, and the man I met with this morning is less than three, so it was hardly an inconvenience.”

  “Twelve miles? I knew you lived in Dorset but I had not the slightest notion you were that close to here.”

  “Yes. That is how I kept your father abreast on the news of the Brundage family. We have a few common acquaintances, though I’ve personally never had the opportunity to meet any of the lot until today.”

  My pulse quickened. “Papa had you keep him updated on the Brundages?”

  A touch of concern etched into Mr. Leavitt’s features. “Not the family in particular, but your friend, Miss Seton. Though I would report on significant happenings like the passing of the late Mr. Brundage. God rest his soul.” He paused, his large head tipping to one side. “Did you not realize that is how your father knew so much?”

  I gave a weak shake of my head, unable to tell him Papa had shared none of the news with me.

  “Yes. Having realized our proximity to one another, your father wrote to me not long after Miss Seton was removed from Bath requesting any information I came upon. The Brundages seem to be a relatively quiet family, but on occasion I would hear something worth passing on.”

  My throat was tight, but I attempted to conceal my shock. “Well, I thank you for your willingness.”

  “It was my pleasure. Your father told me how desperate you were to know Miss Seton was well in her new situation.”

  My smile was stiff. “Yes. In truth, I was beyond desperate.”

  Mr. Leavitt patted my arm jovially. “Then that is all the thanks I need.”

  “And yet it seems we are greatly indebted to you. First for you apprising us of Miss Seton, and second for your delivery of my letters.”

  “Think not a thing of it.”

  “But I must.” Mr. Leavitt was much too forthcoming with information, and I could not allow Augustus to discover the web of lies I seemed to be stuck in. “If you receive any other letters, you must have them posted. I would not forgive myself for Mrs. Leavitt being left alone on my account.”

  He tilted his head to the side. “Always such a thoughtful girl.”

  Guilt pricked me as I rested a hand on Mr. Leavitt’s arm. “Speaking of being thoughtful, you must not keep your wife waiting a moment longer than necessary. But promise me you will give her my regards.”

  “I’ll be glad to.” Mr. Leavitt patted my hand. “And I hope you are aware that you are welcome to come visit us anytime you desire. Not that your demanding agenda leaves much time for such trivial visits, but I am certain Mrs. Leavitt would prefer your company to mine any day. You need only show up at our door.”

  My mouth parted, but no words came out. The Leavitts had not extended an invitation to me at all. Papa had lied yet again.

  Mr. Leavitt’s expression sank in concern. “Is there something the matter, Arabella?”

  I swallowed and forced out a smile, hoping to regain my composure. “Yes. I am simply overwhelmed by your kindness. I shall not forget your offer. Here, now.” I took hold of his arm to hurry him along before Augustus could return. “Let me see you out.”

  As we headed toward the front entryway, I glimpsed Augustus in my periphery walking down the corridor toward us. I kept my focus on Mr. Leavitt, leading him a touch more quickly toward the door.

  “On your way out so soon, Mr. Leavitt?” Augustus called.

  I barely managed to repress a groan when Mr. Leavitt halted, turning back toward Augustus. “I am afraid so, though I’m determined to convince Mrs. Leavitt to accompany me for a longer visit soon—once her health permits. I was just telling Arabella that we are practically neighbors.”

  Augustus took a few final steps toward us and extended a hand. “You would both be most welcome.”

  Mr. Leavitt took hold of Augustus’s hand and gave it a shake. “Your kindness is most appreciated, Mr. Brundage.” His eyes moved to me. “Do write your mother to let her know—”

  “I surely will,” I said, not allowing him to finish.

  Mr. Leavitt’s gaze flitted to Augustus for the briefest moment before he reached up and tapped his own cheek again. Desperate to see him on his way, I leaned over and placed a kiss upon the spot he indicated.

  “I daresay, Mr. Brundage, that is the absolute best thing about growing old. I could hardly get a young woman to look at me in my day, let alone kiss my cheek, and now I have one of England’s finest willing to dote upon me on command.”

  My cheeks now shook with fatigue as I forced another smile. “As though someone as beautiful as Mrs. Leavitt could ever be persuaded by any but a man of equal standing.”

  Mr. Leavitt laughed, his belly shaking in rhythm to the sound. “Such a dear girl you are, Arabella. And I will relay your amusing conjecture to Mrs. Leavitt as soon as I greet her. I am certain it will bring her much delight, though not as much as it has given me.”

  “And you will not forget to offer her my regards?” I took a few steps toward the door Branson held open, encouraging Mr. Leavitt on his way.

  “Of course not,” he said, following my example before stopping on the threshold. “Farewell, Arabella. Mr. Brundage.”

  Augustus stepped to my side. “Take care, sir.”

  I offered one last parting nod. “Thank you again, Mr. Leavitt.”

  With that, the portly man waddled down the steps and toward his awaiting carriage, and with his removal, I found it easier to draw a breath.

  As I raised my hand in a final farewell, Augustus leaned against the doorframe, his discerning eyes on me.

  “What did Mr. Leavitt want if not to remove you?”

  I watched the carriage roll forward, determining what I should say. Augustus would rightly be furious to know Mother was unaware of my being at Fairhaven, especially after I had forgone the opportunity to admit such a thing on several occasions. Then there was the revelation of Papa’s lie that would be too difficult to explain, as I didn’t even understand it.

  “Papa sent him to see how I was faring.” The carriage disappeared onto the main road, and still I kept my eyes on the road. I would find a time to explain the truth to Augustus. I simply needed to figure out how to tell him first. A confession of that magnitude req
uired ample thought as to how to best approach it, and, though I typically disapproved of outright lying, my situation hardly seemed conducive to honesty.

  “And what did you say?”

  I finally met Augustus’s gaze. “That besides the matter of a somewhat irksome host, I am getting on rather well.”

  He laughed, pushing himself off the wall so that he towered over me. “Did you mention that you have been spending your days teaching young, impressionable minds how to flirt?”

  “You are hardly that young anymore, Augustus.”

  He laughed. “I deserved that.”

  I lifted my chin. “You most certainly did.”

  Augustus’s gaze moved to the hand at my side. “Did he bring you those?”

  I glanced down, realizing he spoke of the missives from Mother I still clung to. “Oh, yes,” I said, angling my body to keep him from having a closer look. “Letters from Mrs. Leavitt.”

  “Why did he not just have them posted?”

  I gave a little shrug. “Since he could not frank it, as Papa is able, I assume he did not want the cost of it to fall to another … not when he intended to visit.”

  “It is a very lofty sum.” There were questions in his eyes.

  “Is your visitor gone already?” Ruth asked, walking across the entry hall with Sarah in tow. “I had hoped to be introduced after you spoke in private.”

  I tilted my head to the side. “He could not stay long, but I shall gladly introduce you if he pays us another visit.” I did not mention that it was not likely to occur within the fortnight.

  “And he is your uncle?” Ruth bit at her lip. “No. Your cousin?”

  “My father’s cousin.”

  Ruth nodded absently. “I knew it was something like that.” She hesitated. “I’m grateful you were able to see him, but he did interrupt our lesson. And I’m certain you were just arriving at the best part. You will continue?”

  I laughed, gripping the letters and pinning them tight against me. “Perhaps tomorrow. I believe Augustus will quite agree we have covered enough for the time being.”

  “Very well.” Ruth gave a small pout before something caught her eyes out the open door behind me. “Oh look, Aunt Marina has returned.” Both ladies squeezed between me and Augustus, hurrying out the door to meet her.

  I took a step toward the staircase. “I believe I will go rest a while in my room.”

  Augustus gave a small nod before taking a step to follow Ruth and Sarah outside. He paused, glancing over his shoulder. “Do enjoy reading your letters.”

  All I could manage was a thin-lipped smile before he stepped through the doorway.

  I tossed Mother’s letters on the bed and stared at them. My stomach tightened at the evidence of my betrayal laid out before me. But what could I have done? The lie had been forced upon me by Papa. Yet, undoubtedly, I was the one who made the request to be free of Sandson Hall, and I had willingly complied when Papa offered me the choice. I was nearly as guilty as Papa was, and Mother would be livid to discover our deceit. For that purpose, I could not give Mother reason to suspect anything was amiss and risk leaving Fairhaven. With new resolve, I broke the seal on the first letter.

  Arabella,

  I hope this letter finds you well, and that the Leavitts are tolerable enough company that you have no regrets having complied with your father’s arrangement. Your Aunt Priscilla has mentioned your absence repeatedly and, in truth, our entire party is keenly aware of it. I do long to know how you are faring, so please write. And do not forget your promise.

  My regards,

  Mother

  I broke the seal on the next, unfolding it, and skimming the contents. It was, not surprisingly, similar in both sentiments and instructions, the only addition being news that my cousin, Angelica, and her husband had joined them at Sandson. The knowledge of the possible massacre I had avoided at the hands of my scornful relatives made me more grateful for Papa’s intervention, despite his secrets and means for accomplishing it.

  Before refolding the letter, the line before Mother’s signature captured my notice.

  I do expect to have a letter awaiting me when I return to London early next week. Do not disappoint me.

  All too aware that there was no way forward but to continue in the deceit, I sat at the writing desk and penned a letter to Mother describing my tolerable time at Mr. Leavitt’s. When I finished, I grabbed another sheet of paper to write Papa and demand a more thorough account of my being at Fairhaven. But it would not do to risk provoking him, nor did I trust Mother wouldn’t get her hands on it first, and without a drop of ink on it, I returned the paper to the stack.

  A light tap sounded at the door just as I finished. “Who is there?”

  “Leah, miss.”

  I finished folding the letter. “Come in.”

  Leah stuck her head in the door, looking rather pleased with herself.

  “What is it?”

  “I have finished altering a few of Miss Seton’s dresses. I thought you’d wish to approve them before they are returned to her wardrobe.”

  I stood, quelling my excitement. “Bring them in.”

  The door opened further, revealing several dresses already slung over Leah’s arm.

  I gestured her to the bed. “You may set them there.”

  She did so, laying each one out with care.

  I leaned in to appraise the added trimmings and embellishments, as well as the more fashionable cuts she had managed to adjust on two of them. “You have quite a talent.”

  Leah lowered her gaze. “Thank you, miss. Would you prefer I leave them here for Ruth to have a look, or should I return them to her wardrobe?”

  I looked back at the dresses, still in awe of their subtle, yet noticeable, transformation. “Here is suitable. And, Leah …” I paused, uncertain why I suddenly wished to traverse the necessary gap between servant and mistress. “Perhaps you’d care to be present when Ruth is shown the dresses? Being that you are the one who should receive her gratitude.”

  Leah’s eyes lifted, a tentative smile on her face. “Only if you are certain, miss?”

  “I am.”

  Chapter Fourteen

  “Oh—look at them! They are so lovely!” Ruth’s gaze moved across the dresses, taking in every detail Leah had painstakingly added to improve them. “Look here, at the lace.” Ruth pointed at the newly added trimming on a violet day dress. “Did you ever think such an addition could so alter the entire appearance?”

  I stepped forward, appraising the bodice and the sleeves. “It is stunning. And the handiwork is meticulously done.”

  Ruth’s arms twitched at her side, as though they longed to reach out and take hold of me. “Thank you, Bella. A thousand times over. Thank you.”

  “Leah is the one you should thank, not me.”

  Ruth spun toward Leah, moving to her side so quickly Leah had no time to prepare for the force of her embrace. “I know I’m not supposed to hug people, with me becoming a distinguished lady and all, but I cannot help myself. I am so full of gratitude.”

  “You are welcome.” Leah was most unsuccessful at hiding her delight, and I too found myself mirroring her expression. “But they were Miss Godwin’s trimmings I used.”

  As Ruth faced me, I waved a dismissive hand. “It is nothing.”

  “For you.” Ruth clasped her hands in front of her chest. “But for me it means the world.”

  “Then I’m glad for it.”

  Ruth walked back over to the bed. “I wonder which I shall wear tonight to the Whitmores’.”

  “The Whitmores’?”

  “Oh, yes. I forgot to tell you in my excitement at seeing the dresses.” Ruth picked up a pink one with a newly added lace overlay on the bodice, holding it to her body and swaying back and forth. “Mother saw the Whitmores at the haberdashers today. Apparently, they requested we dine with them this evening at Safford Park.”

  “How delightful your families are so close that the Whitmores needn’t offer ad
equate notice.” I offered a heavy smile, hoping I had a few more in me for the night ahead. I was already exhausted after my visit with Mr. Leavitt.

  Ruth returned the pink dress and reached for another, holding it up to her again and resuming her sway. “Which is your favorite? I honestly can’t decide. I look at one, and I am certain that is it, then another catches my eye. I suppose it is kind of like the roses.”

  “Yes. Do not declare yourself prematurely.” I scanned the dresses again. “Though I am partial to the—”

  “The white one,” Ruth said with a laugh, following my line of sight. “Refined but still breathtaking.”

  I shot her a disapproving look, though I could not hide my amusement. “You were eaves-dropping on my conversation with Augustus?”

  She beamed back at me, returning the dress to the bed. “It was hardly eavesdropping when you were aware I was standing the next path over.”

  I shook my head in disbelief.

  Ruth paused, her face still alight. “May I not relish in the two of you being together again? Especially after Augustus spent years insisting it would never be so, that you were gone from our lives forever?” She clasped my hands in hers. “I never lost hope though. Well, in seeing you again, that is.” She paused. “I suppose not everything can be just as I imagined it.”

  “Whatever do you mean?”

  Ruth bit at her lip. “Do not be vexed at me for saying such a thing, but my only disappointment came in hearing you were nearly engaged to Lord Thorton. You see, I had maintained a silly hope that after all those years apart, you and Augi would find one another again and fall in love. Though he’s never said as much, it is obvious he has always fancied you, and I had thought …” Her lips jutted out into a perfect pout. “Well, it does not matter what I thought, such a hopeless romantic that I am.”

  “We are at least all together again.” I forced my gaze from her, allowing it to drift over the dresses again. “As lovely as these dresses are, I believe you are in need of a gown for full-dress. Perhaps we could commission one in an ivory silk? I daresay that would suit you well.”