Never Run From Love (Kellington Book Four)

by Maureen Driscoll

  Of course, it didn’t hurt that she was also beautiful, intriguing and had extremely kissable lips. It was worth the indignity of wasting a few hours with the reformers if he got the chance to be alone with her in the carriage. He was already calculating the enormous bribe he’d have to pay the maid. But with just a bit of maneuvering, he could charm Miss Sutton and kiss her on the way to the meeting, thus winning the bet. In payment, he would deliver her safely to the protest, wait about – bored senseless – escort her home again, and steal yet another kiss. That one wouldn’t be for the bet, but for his own enjoyment. He wouldn’t even tell Francis about the second kiss, for he could already hear the man crowing about Hal’s sudden taste for bluestockings.

  Which reminded him of what had originally attracted him to her in the first place. He casually craned his head toward Miss Sutton sitting so primly on the window seat. He hoped to catch a glimpse of her ankles, to see if the lady had once again worn her courtesan stockings. He wasn’t sure how long he studied the hem of her skirts, but when her face suddenly came into his line of sight as she glared at him for staring, he realized it had been too long.

  Damn.

  No matter. Perhaps tonight he’d get his kisses and a look at her ankles. Yes, he would come out the victor in his undeclared war with Miss Sutton. And he very much looked forward to her surrender.

  * * *

  At exactly eight of the clock that evening, Mel ushered Flora out the side door of the library. Her aunt, uncle and cousin were dining with friends before attending a ball later that evening. Mel had told them about Mrs. Seton’s protest, and while neither her uncle nor her aunt had wanted her to go, they finally relented after Mel assured them of her safety, even going so far as to tell them Mrs. Seton herself would be calling for her. Since no one in the family particularly wanted to be dragged into conversation with the old warhorse, they went on with their plans.

  Surprisingly, Flora wasn’t giving her nearly as much trouble as she usually did. Perhaps the girl was beginning to find passion for the cause after all. More likely, she had an assignation with her young man. Regardless of the reason, Mel was thankful as she walked to the street with some speed. While she wasn’t expecting Lord Henry for another ninety minutes, she had no desire to linger, giving their neighbors a chance to see her. She needed to quickly walk three blocks to a hackney stand, where she could be on her way.

  She wished she could see Lord Henry’s face when he realized he’d been bested again. That afternoon he’d given her a ride to first collect Flora, then to deliver them home again. He’d agreed to pick her up at the earl’s residence at half past nine in order to be at Covent Garden in plenty of time for the protest.

  When she’d asked him acerbically why he’d joined their group when she knew very well he was fond of drink, he’d simply cocked an eyebrow then said “Perhaps drink is not the only thing I’m fond of.”

  That response had produced a disconcerting fluttering in the area of her stomach and points southward. But in response, she’d simply looked out the window and only occasionally glimpsed at him again. His gaze had rarely left her.

  She had been impressed with his manners when they’d reached the rendezvous point for Flora. He’d stepped out of the carriage and exchanged pleasantries with the maid, although they were too far away for Mel to hear exactly what he was saying to the girl. From the smile on the maid’s face when she entered the carriage, whatever he’d said had been enough to charm the girl. It was, unfortunately, completely understandable.

  Now as she walked up the street, Mel smiled as she imagined Hal’s crestfallen expression when he discovered she had beaten him again. Hopefully he would give up his odd pursuit of her, if that’s even what it was. Knowing him by reputation only – she’d asked her cousin several questions about the Kellington family after returning from the meeting – she figured it was just as likely he wanted an outlet from his boredom than that he was truly interested in her.

  A bit lowering, that.

  She hurried along the street with Flora in tow, passing by a smart black carriage that looked oddly familiar. Just as she made the awful realization of whose carriage it was, the door opened and its occupant got out.

  “Good evening, Miss Sutton, Flora.”

  Lord Henry Kellington grinned at her then withdrew coins for Flora. And suddenly, Mel had a very good idea of just what he’d discussed with her maid earlier in the day.

  “You sent word to Lord Henry that I’d changed plans,” she said to Flora.

  “I promised him I would,” said the girl defensively. “And it wouldn’t do me no good to go back on my word with a lord of the realm.”

  “What about going back on your word to me?” asked Mel desperately. “And might I remind you that I paid you as well?”

  “Not as much,” said the girl as she pocketed the coin. “Will you drop me off then?”

  “I have ordered a hack to take you directly to your destination,” said Hal, as he waved to a nearby cab. “I’ve paid him handsomely to ensure you arrive safely and are picked up at the designated hour. But if you have concerns for your safety, you can ride with us.”

  “I am a rather timid sort,” said Flora as she stuck out her hand.

  “I’m beginning to think you’re as timid as Napoleon and an even better strategist,” said Hal as he placed another coin in her hand. “That will be the last coin tonight, Flora, so off you go.” He handed her into the hack, which took off forthwith.

  “It looks like it shall just be the two of us,” said Hal, as he turned back to Miss Sutton. But he no longer had the carefree look of just moments before. “I suggest you get in the carriage with me, away from the prying eyes of your neighbors. Unless you’d like to explain here and now what the devil you’re up to by associating with prostitutes.”

  CHAPTER SIX

  Mel was really going to have to do something about Flora’s lack of loyalty. She took a deep breath, walked past Lord Henry without saying a word then entered the carriage. She heard him mutter something to the driver, then he climbed in and sat opposite her.

  She maintained a stony silence.

  “Well,” he asked, just when she thought he would not say a word the entire night. “Are you going to tell me why you’ve been travelling to areas of town no lady should venture alone?”

  “If you must know…”

  “I most definitely must know.”

  “I go there to help women who have no choice but to make their way in the world in those very same areas of town. You are not my guardian, nor do you have any claim upon me. What I do can be of very little interest to you.”

  “I am certainly not your guardian or I would have long ago discharged your maid for showing an appalling lack of loyalty. Although, admittedly, she has proven rather useful to me, even if she seems intent on robbing me of every shilling I possess. After sacking her, I would have confined you to your room until you showed the least bit of sense.” At her affronted look, he softened his tone. “I would be happy to lock myself in with you. I’m sure I could find a way to interest you in other pursuits.”

  “Must you flirt constantly, my lord? It grows predictable and, dare I say, tiresome.”

  “If you are tired, then by all means stretch out and take a nap,” said Hal, as he leaned back on the squabs and his lids lowered halfway over his eyes.

  “You just did it again, my lord.”

  “I’m afraid I did, Miss Sutton. But since I want to have a rational conversation, I shall try and forgo any future advances until my curiosity is satisfied, though I cannot guarantee success. Now tell me what you are about. Joining Mrs. Seton in her reform efforts is foolhardy enough. But you risk your very life if you’re guilty of even a portion of what your maid accused you of doing.”

  Melanie thought about lying to Lord Henry, but had a feeling he wouldn’t be easily fooled. It was one thing to leave him in a sweets shop waiting for her. But, for whatever reason, his interest in her safety seemed genuine. If he truly
felt she was placing herself in harm’s way, he might reveal all to her uncle.

  She had little choice but to reveal at least some of the truth. Hopefully, the man would soon lose interest.

  “I grew up in a Quaker school. While I did not worship in that faith, I found many of their principles worthwhile, particularly those about helping others. Mr. Richard Parker was a leader in the organization. I worked with him helping women in Philadelphia who’d fallen on hard times. I quickly learned that there are very few options for women who do not have the support of a husband or a family, especially if children are involved. Mothers will sacrifice themselves for their loved ones. It was heartbreaking to watch.”

  Mel paused as she thought about one of the first women she’d met in such circumstances. As a sheltered young lady, she’d known very little about what went on between a man and a woman. She still didn’t quite know everything, although she had seen a great deal more than most unmarried ladies her age. When she learned that Doris had sold her body for the money that kept her two children fed and clothed, she’d felt sorry for her. Then when she learned one of Doris’s clients was physically abusive toward her, Mel had tried to convince her to do anything but stay in her situation. She’d never forget when Doris told her she had no other options.

  Three days later, her body had been found beaten to death in an alley, barely recognizable. Mel pledged from that moment on to do whatever she could to help women like Doris.

  “Miss Sutton?” Lord Henry was quiet and looking at her with concern.

  “Forgive me. My thoughts were far from here. Let me say only that I became dedicated to the cause of helping those less fortunate. When my aunt and uncle sent me for, I was initially reluctant to come. But Mr. Parker said there might be an opportunity for me to help women in London.”

  “Oh, he did, did he?” said an incensed Hal. “It’s easy for some stuffy old preacher to tell everyone else to save the world. If he knew the risks you were taking he wouldn’t allow you to do the work. At least he wouldn’t if he were a true gentlemen.”

  “I can assure you that Mr. Parker is a true gentleman. One who wouldn’t be found in his cups outside a gaming den, nor stumbling drunkenly about ballrooms.”

  “Stumbling about ballrooms,” said Hal with a frown. “How do you know…”

  “And I can also assure you that Mr. Parker is not a stuffy old preacher. He is a well-regarded young man.” She found the scowl on Lord Henry’s face rather amusing. “And quite attractive.” The scowl blackened. She couldn’t resist adding, “He is considered quite the matrimonial catch.”

  “I suppose you are one of those who consider him so? I find myself surprised that you would leave Philadelphia at all. Or is this simply a ploy where your absence will bring him up to scratch?”

  “What makes you think he is not up to scratch?” Mel had no romantic interest in Mr. Parker, but if this irritated the high-handed lord across from her, she would use it to her advantage.

  “Because if I were a ‘well-regarded young man’ accounted ‘quite attractive’ by some…”

  “By all,” corrected Mel, trying hard not to smile.

  “If I were that man and besotted with you, I would hardly let you hie off to England, knowing as I did there were any number of lords who would swoop in to take you away from me. Unless….is your Mr. Parker a mentally deficient?”

  “No! Mr. Parker is one of the most intelligent men I know.”

  Lord Henry studied her for a moment. “I notice you did not correct me when I called him ‘your’ Mr. Parker.”

  “Lord Henry, is there a question here?”

  From the look on his face there appeared to be several. Instead, he simply narrowed his eyes once again. “I hardly think a man who lets you consort with prostitutes is good husband material.”

  “I would hardly think you are a good judge of anyone’s suitability as a husband. From what my cousin tells me, you avoid marriageable young ladies as if they were plague carriers.”

  Suddenly, he grinned. “So, you asked your cousin about me?”

  Drat. Mel couldn’t believe she let that slip. “You did show up at my doorstep, after all. And then follow me to Mrs. Seton’s. And waylay me tonight.”

  “About tonight. Where is your destination? Not that I’m going to allow you to go there. But I am curious. Is it that boarding house Flora told me about?”

  “Yes,” said Mel a bit too quickly. “So kindly drop me off there.”

  “I will not drop you off anywhere, kindly or otherwise. And I get the distinct impression you are bamming me, which is a mistake on your part since I am particularly difficult to fool.” Off her look, he quickly added, “besides today at the sweets shop. Where do you really want to go? And before you think to lie again, please consider that since I know how determined you are there is a good chance I shall escort you to where you wish to go, if only so you don’t go there on your own.”

  Mel considered his offer. She had to admit she would feel much safer with an escort, even if Lord Henry did present dangers of his own. She doubted he would ravish her or in any way force her to do something she didn’t wish to do. But each time she’d been in his presence, she’d felt an odd and wholly unwelcome attraction. Their one kiss continued to invade her thoughts at the most inopportune times. It wasn’t his actions she feared, but her own.

  In the end, she decided to do what was best for her mission, if not her emotional well-being. She decided to trust him. For tonight. “I was going to an alley near an establishment known as Madame Thurmond’s.”

  “The devil!”

  Lord Henry almost jumped out of his seat. Gone was the seductive, cool aristocrat. In his place was an overbearing, overprotective man. “I absolutely forbid it! You shouldn’t even know of such a place.”

  “I shouldn’t even know of such a place? You are one of its most famous clients.”

  For a moment, Lord Henry Kellington was struck dumb. Then he drew breath. “I will admit that I have, on occasion, frequented the establishment. But that is hardly any concern of yours.”

  “Just as my activities are no concern of yours.”

  “My activities aren’t putting me in harm’s way. Yours most assuredly are. And how do you know that I have been there?”

  Mel wasn’t sure how much to reveal, so she said only, “I’ve heard your name mentioned.”

  He looked distinctly nonplussed. “By whom?”

  “By some of the women who work there.”

  Lord Henry was saved from a response by the carriage drawing to a halt. He looked out the window to get their bearings, then opened the panel between him and the driver. “Madame Thurmond’s,” he told the man.

  Mel could have sworn the coachman questioned the order, no doubt because she was in the carriage. But a moment later, they set out again for the famous brothel.

  “I see there was no need to give him directions,” she couldn’t resist saying.

  “No, Miss Sutton,” said Lord Henry with a sigh. “My coachman knows the way.”

  * * *

  It was, thought Hal, the most extraordinary experience he’d ever had with a woman that didn’t involve a sexual act. Miss Melanie Sutton fascinated him beyond her considerable physical appeal. With the exception of his sister, her friend Rosalind and his brothers’ wives, he didn’t know a single female who would undertake such a dangerous task, all in the name of saving the less fortunate. Not to mention that the “less fortunate” women at Madame Thurmond’s had more blunt than most of his friends.

  It wasn’t that Hal didn’t feel compassion for the poor prostitutes who plied their trade in the alleys and doorways of the East End. He often slipped them money when their procurers weren’t looking. But he never took them up on their offers of gratitude. He was too careful of his own health to risk catching the pox or any other disease.

  But this American chit wasn’t just out to help a few women with coins. She was on a demmed crusade. And he believed she had a good chance of wi
nning on sheer determination alone. She’d engaged him in a battle of wits and hadn’t just been holding her own. She’d been winning. It was a most disconcerting thought.

  What was even more unsettling was the protectiveness which had arisen in him ever since she’d left him at the sweets shop and hopped into a hack on her own. He’d been on edge all afternoon, hoping that the dreadful Flora would follow through on her agreement to tell him when Miss Sutton planned on leaving the house. Because he’d been completely certain she wasn’t going to wait for him to pick her up. Even after receiving word that she was to leave at eight, he’d been sitting in the carriage since seven, taking no chances that the minx would outwit her maid.

  He didn’t want to take her to Madame Thurmond’s, but he had no doubt she would follow through on her threat to go without him. So he would stay by her side through whatever mission she fancied she was on. But he couldn’t follow her day and night. He even had plans to meet Francis later that evening, long after he hoped she would be home, safely in bed.

  In bed. It didn’t pay to think of comely Miss Sutton with her hazel eyes and supple mouth in bed. She might speak to prostitutes and have an understanding with the saintly Mr. Parker – who was almost certainly a prosy bore – but he could tell she was still an innocent. The blasted wager was bad enough. But if anyone saw the two of them together at Madame Thurmond’s she would be ruined.

  And he would feel compelled to offer marriage. It was almost enough to make him jump out of the moving carriage.

  But he couldn’t very well let her to go there alone. He would accompany her there tonight, then in the morning he would have a long talk with Lord Heffner to let him know exactly what his ward had been up to. She would be furious with him, but he couldn’t in good conscience allow her to continue placing herself in danger. Anything could happen to her in the area around Madame Thurmond’s. Hal reflexively leaned toward her.