“There is plenty here for her. There is plenty for all of us. I want to talk to you as a man, not as a shackled crazed shell of a man.”
“What are you doing Dr Vincent?” asked Eugenia, stepping away from the wall.
“I am relieving you of your chains. You will be free to act and, if it is in a disorderly manner, you shall pay the consequences. I have all respect for you as my father, but I will not hesitate to protect what is mine,” said Vincent looking over at Sophia and Mary standing locked arm in arm. Lightning cracked and both women jumped. They all soon heard the steady drops of rain on the rooftop.
“You did this, New Bride.” Sir George narrowed his eyes at Sophia. “You have killed my old son and now you bring this weakling to me.”
Vincent pressed his lips together as he removed the chains from his father’s ankles and wrists. The man shot up in the bed, grabbing the blankets to cover himself. Then leaned back against the headboard with a smirk on his wrinkled face.
“We are not going to keep living in your dungeon, father. You have made one for us all, but I choose this day to end it. My bride and I are determined to make Stirling Mansion a place of love and light. With Sophia and my sister Mary as support, I will become the doctor my mother would be proud of. Do you want to join this mission or would you prefer to go elsewhere?”
Sophia held her breath. The way Vincent had asked the question made her believe that he knew the forthcoming answer. Sir George Stirling frowned at all of them and buried his head in the blanket. She saw Eugenia’s eyes harden.
“Why are you putting your poor father through this? For her?” she asked, her face flushing red.
Ignoring her question, he turned to his father.
“I know that you and Eugenia will not be pleased. She tried to step in to support you in your madness after losing Ella, but I am stepping in now. I will begin to have my own family and I will not raise them in darkness. There will be enough lightness for all of us to flourish.”
“You sound insane now.”
“I am, father. Insanely in love with Sophia and the possibility of a new and better life ahead. We will open a wing of this vast estate to operate as a hospital. A facility to treat the poor and sickly,” said Vincent smiling.
“That is a ridiculous idea if I have ever heard of one,” said Sir George lifting his head from the blankets.
Eugenia stared at Vincent with a quizzical look on her face.
“Have you gone mad, Doctor?”
“I am mad that I let this go on for so long. No more, Eugenia. Either you join us or you are free to leave with my father if he so chooses,” Vincent said, his eyes tired.
Sir George could barely remain in the bed. She heard the bed vibrating faster as his body filled with rage. His hands were closed into fists pushed into the bed on both sides of him. “We have nowhere to go, boy.”
“Then wartime is over. Love shall reign here. I will see that Eugenia continues to take care of you here. You can live here in the darkness of your room, but as for my estate, there shall be light,” he stepped over to Sophia and Mary and held out both hands to the two young women.
“What are you going to do now?” asked Eugenia, her eyes wide.
‘I’m going to create my project. I have a wife and a sister that I am ready to build a new life with.”
Sophia and Mary smiled as they both began to cry. The three of them left the room together. Mary began to laugh through her tears as they made their way down the hallway.
“What are you laughing about Mary?” asked Sophia.
Mary looked at Sophia as she began smiling.
“I would bet that Sir George never thought his craziness would rub off on his family in this way.
They all laughed at the top of the staircase.
“I am off to peel some paint in the kitchen, as a start to making things clean and bright. Loads of fun,” said Mary as she bounded down the stairs, leaving Sophia and Vincent alone.
Vincent took Sophia into his arms and kissed her fully. He was meeting himself in her and he was liking what he saw. He understood that the man he was before was not as broken as he had believed. He had given the remedy to save her mother’s life and she was the remedy to save his life.
As they broke their kiss, the rain stopped. The storm was over. They would love each other in the bright rays of love as long they lived.
About the Author
Lenora Levon has always been a lover of historical romance novels. The Regency romances have a special place in her heart. They are a time and place in history that she longs to visit. So, she does in the stories she writes. She's enjoying every minute of it.
Other Books by Lenora Levon
A Gentleman's Unexpected Choice
The Duke's Broken Honor
The Earl's Secret Awakening
Here is Your Preview of
A Gentleman’s Unexpected Choice
Lenora Levon
Chapter One
“Why good morning, Miss Laura. Are you in a hurry?” asked Dane, the Shemp Manor butler, as he opened the door for her.
She greeted him and smiled. “Yes, I am today.”
Laura Tallant walked up the large, winding stairs of Shemp Manor. It was a massive house and it had been her home since her sister had taken her in. It truly was the estate of her brother-in-law, Grayson Samuel, Earl of Lawton and her sister, Mary. She was allowed to live in the home, but it would not be what she would have chosen for her home. It was very ostentatious. She longed for the day when she would have a home of her own. She would get what she desired very soon, with Hampton, as soon as they completed their nuptials.
Hampton Gordon was a gentleman. He was stable in mind and spirit. She knew that he was loyal and would provide a wonderful home for her.
Laura was running up the staircase, making her way to her bedroom when a voice rang out.
“Where are you off to?” her sister Mary asked.
“I am going to change my clothes and prepare for our visit.”
“No need to worry about that. We received a note from Uncle Ramus. He will be unable to meet with us today. He has urgent business in London.”
Laura sighed with relief. She was in no mood to listen to the heavy-handed insults of her Uncle Ramus today.
“However, can you still assist me?” Mary asked, waving her into her room.
Her beautiful blonde-haired niece, Cecilia, crawled over to Laura as they walked into the bedroom. Laura reached down to pick up the baby. She grabbed a bundle of Laura’s brunette curls. Laura laughed as she sat down with the little girl. She could not wait until she had a bundle of joy of her own.
“I cannot believe that I am with child again. I have been feeling so sick that I can barely bring myself to attend to Susie,” Mary sighed.
“It will get better soon. You remember that you felt better after the first few months with little Susie, right?” asked Laura.
“It was a relief and it will be a welcome relief with this one as well.”
“You will do fine,” smiled Laura.
“Just as you will too, Laura,” smiled Mary. “You will be a beautiful mother. You are already a great second mother with my Cecilia.”
“She is delightful. I think you should find it easy to be her mother, dear sister,” said Laura as she stroked the baby’s rosy cheek.
“Speaking of mothers, our mother has sent a request,” Mary said, sitting down on her bed.
Laura looked over at her. She was already thinking of their mother in anticipation of the subject.
“You know that mother has not been feeling well for some time. She wants a visit from us,” said Mary stroking her belly.
“You know I will accompany you to make a visit to her,” said Laura.
“There is no way that I can possibly go with you with in my condition. I could not manage the ride. It is regretful, but you will have to visit her unattended again, Laura.”
Laura knew it was her duty to do so. This was how it had bee
n for as long as she could remember. She wished that she could escape her responsibilities, but it was not to be. She enjoyed holding little Susie as the baby’s pudgy fingers played in Mary’s hair.
“It is quite all right. I would find it a pleasure to visit with Mother.”
Their parents, Henry and Elizabeth Tallant, had always enjoyed running their own dress shop. When Mr. Henry Tallant died, Elizabeth ran it very successfully on her own. Then she had taken ill. She unfortunately had to retreat to her bed and was determined to have her daughters take over the finances. Mary reluctantly took over, but determined to marry well to escape the burden of providing for the family.
Laura respected her older sister, Mary, for taking over the duties. Their mother always praised the girls for their responsible duties. Laura was always aiming to please her mother to ease the pain of her being bedridden. Laura looked at her mother’s depressed nature and desired to ease it. Her mother never asked for much. A simple visit every month or so was the only requirement. Laura was used to making the journey alone and enjoyed the solitude of the ride.
“Grayson will make all of the necessary arrangements for your travel. He will do it in haste. You can leave as soon as the travel is provided.”
“I shall prepare for the visit,” said Laura managing a smile.
“You know mother looks forward to our visits,” Mary said smiling. “She gets rather lonely there without us.”
“She should not have chosen to live so far from us,” said Laura.
“It was her idea to not burden us,” Mary said standing up. “However, she does miss us from time to time.”
“You know, perhaps I can bring her back with me,” said Laura kissing baby Susie. “She can assist you with your difficulties.”
“Or you mean increase my difficulties,” laughed Mary. “I could not bear the thought of attending to a new baby and dear mother at the same time. It would be absolutely dreadful.”
“So you say, but how can you forget that you have access to many servants at will,” said Mary. She stood up with baby Susie. “I wonder if Cousin Tilly will pay us a visit. She has always come to our assistance when in need.”
“It would be delightful if she did,” said Mary reaching for Susie. “Her last correspondence stated that they would, however, that was months ago.”
“She is my favorite cousin and she promised she would faithfully write to us.”
“I never expected it. With a life such as hers, how could we expect such a thing?” asked Mary.
“You are correct, sister. However, I would still like to see her once again and hear of her lovely travels. She is an absolute joy.”
Tilly was a young woman of the world. She’d had the good fortune of recently marrying a Canadian gentleman who often traveled with her in America. He was good friends with a sea captain and they sailed quite often. Laura was happy for her cousin’s worldly adventures, but could not help desiring such for herself. Her cousin never second guessed her decisions and did as she pleased. She was a role model for young Laura.
What if Laura could live the life she truly wanted? To do as she pleased without a care in the world about what anyone thought? Was this truly what Laura wanted for her life? Heavens no! Laura was a different type of woman. She only wanted to choose the husband she desired and live a married life filled with love. She wanted a house she could choose and furnish as she saw fit. The children were the sweet topping on the cake. Wasn’t this what all young women wished for? Was she so different, so uncommon?
She had her Hampton Gordon. Her loving, sweet Hampton. He’d had fun in his young life and was done with those foolish amusements. He was ready to settle down with Laura. They were betrothed and preparing to marry. She would have her husband, choose a beautiful home and then the children would come. Yes, the beautiful children. She would be so happy and at peace with her life.
“I shall put little Susie to sleep, now,” said Mary softly. “It is time for her nap and mine.”
“Yes, you should nap while you can,” giggled Laura.
Mary walked off with Susie. Laura followed her to the adjoining nursery. It was decorated with pink pastel flowers. The soft fabric of the crib silks nestled the baby softly. Then, Mary and Laura rocked the brass crib in a slow motion. The baby drifted off to sleep. They walked with care across the floor. As they cleared the room, Mary looked at Laura.
“You look tired too, dear sister,” said Mary smoothing Laura’s hair.
“I may need a nap too,” said Laura letting out a yawn.
“Your green eyes look strained and your fair skin is flushed,” said Mary feeling her cheek. “Are you ok? You may not be fit to travel.”
“Of course, I’m fine,” laughed Laura. “It is you that must take the nap. Please go to your bed at once.”
Laura walked Mary to her bed in the master bedroom.
“How can I manage two babies?” asked Mary sinking into the bed.
“If you insist on taking care of your babies without the assistance of a nurse, what are you to become? Tired and listless, I must say,” stated Laura.
“We were raised to be independent women by our independent mother, do you recall?” said Mary slipping off her shoes.
“That is a fact. However, please take advantage of your financial status and take the assistance of a nurse. Your Grayson will see to all of the arrangements.”
“You may be correct,” Mary lay down on her side.
“I am correct, dear sister,” said Laura covering her sister with a light blanket.
“Get some rest and we will discuss the matter later.”
Laura backed out of the room and closed the door quietly behind her. In the hallway, she walked to her room down at the end of the long corridor.
She was going to partake of that nap her sister had suggested. She looked forward to the sweet slumber to dream of a married life for herself. This would also be a small respite before the preparation for her upcoming travels.
Chapter Two
“You have my word that I shall meet your coach once it returns on Friday,” said Hampton Gordon holding the white gloved hand of Laura. They stood close in the small crowd gathered to board the various coaches.
“You know I will look forward to it, dear Hampton,” Laura said smiling. Hampton gazed in his light brown eyes upon her face. He smoothed back his dark brown hair under his black top hat. This was the first time he had escorted her to the carriage for a journey to visit her mother. She was usually accompanied by Mary and Grayson. He insisted on seeing her off as well as escorting her to the coach boarding.
“You will truly be missed at the dinner my mother has planned. I understand your mother comes first in her ill state,” said Hampton. “You are certainly a dutiful daughter.”
She smiled sweetly. “The time will pass as fleeting moments for us, my dear.”
Hampton looked at her and smiled. “The time is not as momentary as I have been hoping. The arrival of our wedding is moving at a snail’s pace.”
“I am so looking forward to our wedding in May,” beamed Laura.
“I am glad we agreed upon the date. I could no longer change the date, you know,” said Hampton.
Laura had been waiting for two long years to marry him. He had relieved himself of all the fun and wanted to make a family his priority.
“I was waiting for the right time for both of us, you know,” grinned Laura.
“I must also tell you that my father will be retiring from our shop and will allow me to take it over. I have my own money, but I will be in full control of the family fortune soon, then I will earn more than enough for our future together. We will have sufficient money to purchase a modest home soon. So please, prepare our marriage plans, dear,” Hampton stroked her face.
Laura laughed. “I have never heard such a beautiful request.”
She knew he was waiting until he had more money to support them. He was stalling for more time. She knew he had built a small fortune to be able to accept
a wedding date from her. Hampton’s face beamed with happiness. His brown eyes had sparks of gold flashing in them. He smiled at her showing his polished white teeth.
The coach was finally loaded. The passengers were asked to board. Hampton closed his lips and brushed her flushed cheek with a smooth kiss.
“My dear Hampton,” Laura whispered. “You have displayed such a show of affection, and in public, no doubt.”
“It is just the beginning, my dear,” He smiled. “Let me help you into the carriage.”
“Thank you, dear,” Laura said getting into the carriage. “Good-bye, Hampton!”
He stepped back and waved. He walked away. Laura took her seat and was surprised to discover she was the only passenger in the coach.
“I thought there would be more travellers considering the gathering here,” said Laura her voice rising.
“No, they are waiting on coaches going to the Penrose Coast for the summer,” said the postilion closing the door.
Laura nodded her head in acknowledgement. She made herself comfortable on the seat and felt the carriage lurch forward. She peeked out of the curtain and saw Hampton was gone. She wished he had stood there to watch her depart, but she knew he was busy with the shop. She relaxed and settled back in her seat.
She suddenly heard steps running and a man’s voice yelling. The coach came to a halt and the door flew open. She could not believe the commotion being made. Who would do such a thing with a lady inside? She took her eyes away from the door, disappointed that someone with such a low display of behaviour would enter. She hoped they would be obliged to stay to themselves. She looked again out of curiosity and saw the post-boy struggling with luggage to load on the carriage. She tore her eyes away again.
“Hello ma’am.”
Laura heard a low male voice. She looked in his direction as he made an entrance.
He gazed at her with a large smile.
Love in the Moonlight: A Regency Romance All Hallows' Eve Collection: 7 Delightful Regency Romance All Hallows' Eve Stories (Regency Collections Book 6) Page 52