by Karen Lynne
Susan gave Mrs. Baxter a reassuring smile. Abigail Phelips had been her friend since their days at finishing school at Flint House. Their mothers had been good friends, but they were both gone now.
Mary was packing the last of Susan’s things into her worn and battered trunks as she entered her bed chamber. Rubbing her arms against the chill, she walked over to stir the embers in the fireplace.
“Mary we are going to Montacute a few days early. Jaxon will have the carriage ready within the hour. Will you have the footman load my cases?”
Mary nodded. “Yes, miss.” A look of concern crossed her face.
Susan squeezed Mary’s arm in reassurance. “We will be fine. I'm going to pack up Mother’s things.” Susan looked around one last time, knowing she would miss her home.
She had just about finished packing her mothers’ things when she heard the crunch of carriage wheels. Peering out the window, the old carriage came into view. She felt her eyes tingle, as her heart warmed.
The footman loaded the trunks on the carriage as Susan and her maid climbed in. Her heart squeezed tight as Fyne Court receded from view. She'd miss the green meadows and the folly build on the hill, the nearby wood she played in as a child.
Chapter Two
James Balfour, Earl of Malmesbury, and Capt. Charles Rutley had left London the day before on their way home after a long campaign on the Continent. After the month-long campaign at Waterloo in which, Bonaparte had been beaten, James resigned his commission. He had been serving the regency for four long years, and it was time to return to his estate. Capt. Rutley had been with him, and together they had survived to return home, both men well rewarded for their service.
“Well, Rutley, it is time we part. Wish your parents well. I’m planning on staying home awhile, so I’m not sure when I will see you again.” James cocked his head, giving his friend a crooked smile.
“What? You will not be coming to London for the Season?” the captain replied in mock seriousness. “I plan on enjoying the female company and getting back into Society. I have had my fill of war, I’ll tell you.”
“I have been gone too long. I promised my mother I would return to Bowood House and the running of the estate. I need to check with my steward, check the lay of the land while I have been gone,” James responded.
He was not about to throw himself onto the marriage mart just yet. There was plenty of time. He kicked his stallion and turned left at the fork, leaving his friend. His horse had seen him through many a battle and survived to return home with him. They both needed a rest.
James crested a hill over the south end of his estate, slowing to give both of them a rest. The lush green meadow spread before him, trees spread thick and far, green in the early spring as the leaves filled their branches, farms dotting the spaces below.
Where the road turned and sloped at the crest of the hill, a farm wagon heavily loaded sped around the bend. Another carriage approached from the south. James’s eyes were drawn to a movement in the carriage window. A heart-shaped face with stunning eyes glanced his way before the loaded wagon rounded the bend.
His heart skipped a beat as the heavy wagon swung past the carriage, spooking the horses. The driver pulled to the left as the carriage slid, bounced, then tumbled into the ditch coming to rest on its side against the ditch bank. His gut tightened as he turned his mount urging him down the incline toward the wreck.
He could see the wagon had stopped a few yards down from the carriage, which was resting on its left side, leaning against the bank in the barrow pit. The old driver was speaking softly to the spooked horses. He looked up as James came into view.
“Are you alright man?” James asked the driver.
“Yes, sir, but the miss’s sir.” The concerned driver pointed to the toppled carriage. “I have not checked inside.”
The farmer from the wagon walked over, twisting his hat. “Sorry sir, my brake didn't engage. Hope none is hurt.”
James nodded. “We shall see.” His heart started pounding as the old driver climbed up on the carriage's side and peered in the window.
“They are fine, sir.”
James relaxed in relief. The driver climbed down as James hopped up onto the side of the over turned carriage, wrenching the door open. A jumble of kicking skirts, petticoats and a fine pair of ankles came into view. He let out his breath, relieved. The maid’s eyes grew wide as she spotted him and stilled. Her mistress followed her view. Her eyes spoke volumes, and a fine-shaped face with auburn hair tumbled from its pins, delighting his eyes.
A slow smile warmed his face. She was trying to cover her ankles, but it was no use. The two women were hopelessly stuck, wedged between the seats leaning against the opposite door. It was a delightful scene.
“Sir, you think this is amusing?” said the one with auburn hair. “A gentleman would help ladies in distress.” Frustration sounded in her cultured voice.
He liked her spunk. She was obviously unfazed under the condition she found herself. He reached down, offering her his gloved hand as she suspiciously watched him, hesitating. “I promise to be a gentleman,” James reassured her in his best gentlemanly voice.
“Miss, please, I can hardly breathe.” her maid complained as she nudged her. “Quick now.” Relenting, the pretty lady took his hand. He could feel her slight weight as he lifted her clear of the seat, and wrapping his other arm around her small waist, he easily brought her up to rest on the edge of the door. She fit comfortably in his embrace. He caught a scent of lavender; it smelled of spring. Her eyes met his, wide with shock, and her lips parted as she stared at him, their faces inches apart. She stiffened, resting her hand on his chest as she tried to push away. He warmed at her touch.
“You can let me go now, sir.” Her eyes sparked.
The old driver appeared below, and reluctantly James released her into his care and turned to help her maid. She hurried over to her mistress as she tried to straighten her skirts.
Susan shook her skirts, trying to arrange herself back into a presentable state while trying to banish thoughts of the stranger’s dark, steamy eyes and the soft curl that fell across his forehead. Her embarrassment faded as her temper began to rise. Could this day get any worse? Mary followed behind her. They seemed to be unharmed with no serious injuries, so she turned her attention to the worn carriage.
“Sorry, Miss Hamilton, the wagon came around the corner so fast I didn’t have time to get out of the way.”
“You did fine, Jaxon. I fear it could have been so much worse,” she reassured him.
The stranger was busy with the men from the other wagon, checking out the damage to the carriage. Jaxon had calmed the horses after unharnessing them. To her relief, the animals, although shaken, were unharmed.
“It is a blessing, it is, Miss Susan, that the horses escaped injury.”
“Yes, Jaxon, I quite agree.”
“Sir, do you think we can get the carriage back on her wheels?” Jaxon asked, addressing the stranger.
“It was unfortunate that the carriage tipped, but your fine handling, sir, saved it from serious damage,” the stranger assured him.
Jaxon straightened and puffed up at the compliment. “Thank ye, sir.”
He smiled down at Susan. “Mr. Balfour at your service, Miss…?”
“Miss Hamilton.”
“Miss Hamilton, I believe with the help of the men from the other wagon, we can right the carriage and then inspect it for unseen damage.”
“Thank you, Mr. Balfour. Your help is appreciated.” Her heart, pounding from fear only moments ago, now pounded with an unfamiliar excitement.
Mr. Balfour took charge and organized the men as they carefully righted the carriage. Using ropes, they had it righted within an hour. Jaxon had the horses back in their harnesses and pulled the carriage onto the road, testing for other damage. There was slight damage to the door, but the wheels were intact and the carriage moved farther down the road where the men began reloading their baggage.
<
br /> James kept an eye on the women while he managed the accident. Miss Hamilton had stayed calm throughout the ordeal. Her hair shone with red highlights in the dimming sun. Her arresting hazel eyes and delicate features drew his eye too easily. She hadn’t swooned or tried to flirt. It was refreshing. He liked the sound of her voice, and although her dress was worn, it did not distract from her beauty.
“Miss Hamilton, let me help.” She stiffened as he reached for her elbow and, raising her chin, she climbed into the carriage, her eyes averted. Her maid settled in across from her mistress. James backed away and watched the carriage jump forward as it headed up the road. He chuckled as he returned to his mount. Rubbing his stallion’s neck, he checked the harness and saddle before mounting. “Come, I think it’s time we were home.” Pretty hazel eyes with a sprinkle of freckles across her nose came to mind as he headed in the direction of home.
“Miss Susan, we were saved by a handsome stranger. Oh my, it was exciting.” Mary kept up her chatter as the carriage pulled back onto the road. Susan dared a look out the window. As Mr. Balfour mounted and turned, his eyes caught hers. He tipped his hat and nodded, nudging his stallion, then galloped away.
Susan settled back in the seat, strange feelings settling in her stomach. She wondered if she’d see him again. Mary kept up her prattle. Susan was glad she was enjoying the “adventure,” as she called it. Settling back, her fingers touched the small bump forming on her forehead. It could have been so much worse. Her thoughts shifted to dark penetrating eyes for the rest of the trip.
James entered Bowood House, tired after his long journey. The butler stepped forward to take his coat. “Welcome home, my lord.” His butler bowed. “You have a visitor in the front salon. It’s Bathurst, my lord.”
“Thank you, Howard. Order some tea and refreshments while I get changed.”
His fists tightened as the adrenaline rushed through his body. It hadn’t taken Devon long to come knocking. His solicitor had been taking care of Devon Bathurst’s allowance. He could only imagine the mischief his cousin had gotten into since his absence. Devon usually showed his face at Bowood House when he needed money. He could wait. He entered his chamber and saw that Sims had his clothes laid out. He relaxed into his valet’s care.
Devon was facing the fireplace that dominated the room when he entered, fingering a silver box on the mantle. He dropped his hand as James moved across the carpet.
“Not planning on pilfering the silver are you, Devon?”
“Really, James, why would I?”
“Yes, why would you?” He settled into a high back leather chair facing the fireplace. “Have a seat, Devon.”
“I have just returned from London. What is so important that it couldn’t wait a few days?” James noticed his cousin’s rumpled clothing. He’d put on some weight in the past few years.
“Devon, you look disheveled. What mischief have you been up to?”
Devon lowered his eyes. “I haven’t been to bed yet, cousin. Heard you would be home today, so I dropped by to request an advance on my quarterly draw.”
He could imagine the debt of trouble his cousin was getting into. His mother, the Countess of Malmesbury, wrote of his cousin’s activities and his wild spending. “According to my solicitor, you are already a year ahead of your allowance. I see no reason to advance you more. You need to live within your means just like the rest of us.”
“How can I be expected to manage on so little? I need to keep up a life-style befitting my station,” Devon complained. “How would it look to have me thrown into debtor’s prison?”
He suspected Devon was using his position in the family to draw heavily from his tailor and other establishments. “What do you mean, your position’?”
Devon puffed out his chest. “My position as heir apparent.”
“You may be my heir for now, but I am not so old. I may still have a son yet, or did you expect me to die on the continent?” James watched as Devon shifted his stance and lowered his eyes.
“My goodness, man. You didn’t expect me to return, did you?” James shouted.
Devon blushed and sputtered. “Well, war is unpredictable.”
“You will not be getting any further advances. I’ve a mind to find me a bride and put a stop to all this reckless spending,” James threatened. “I have other family members to worry about.” He stifled his irritation. Now wasn’t the time to argue with his young cousin. His cousin had always been lazy and his father refused to take him to task, more concerned with his projects than his son.
“I don’t want to fight with you, Devon. I’ve just returned home and have a lot to do. Come have some food. Have you eaten?”
Devon opened his mouth but thought better of it. Reaching for a plate, he took advantage of the meal.
James sent word to his solicitor and settled down at his desk, thumbing through correspondence that had gathered during his absence. It would take weeks to make sense of it all. He would meet with his steward tomorrow and begin the long process of reacquainting himself to estate matters.
“The solicitor, my lord.” His butler showed Mr. Reeves into the earl’s study.
“Reeves, glad you came so quickly.” The earl stood and offered his hand.
“Always at your service, my lord. It is good to have you back safe.”
He motioned for Reeves to sit. “It seems my cousin Bathurst has run up bills again and threatens to be hauled to Fleet Prison. I need you to gather information on all the accounts and debts he currently owes.”
“Yes, my lord. I'll put a report together.”
“Thanks, Reeves. I have threatened to cut him off, hoping to slow him down. He is not to receive any more advances. I have a mind to get back into society now that I’m home. Attend a few balls and such. If my cousin thinks I am looking to marry, it would give him something to think about.” Not that he would marry, remembering his first love.
Reeves chuckled. “Yes, I'm sure the young ladies and their mothers will be pleased as well.”
“Yes, well, there is that.” He had been through it all before, the society mother’s flinging their daughters at any eligible male in hopes for a lucrative match.
They settled in and discussed the earl’s holdings and investments. There was a lot of business to manage after being away. Reeves left, promising to report back within the week.
Chapter Three
The battered carriage arrived at Montacute, home of her friend Abigale Phelips, just barely before dusk. She rubbed her arms, starting to feel the affects of the accident. “Mary, we’re here.” Nudging her maid off her shoulder, Mary stirred to life. Stepping out of the carriage, Susan stretched her aching limbs.
“Susan, you’re here.” Abby came rushing to Susan’s side. Her eyes grew wide. “Susan, what has happened? Your carriage.”
“We had an accident on the road a few miles back,” Susan replied.
Abby wrapped her arm around Susan’s waist, guiding her up the steps. “Let’s get you to your bedchamber where you can refresh yourself. We can talk while you rest.”
“That sounds good. I shall enjoy a warm bath.” It had been a shocking day.
Mary started unpacking the luggage while Abby ordered a bath.
“Mary, please don’t worry about unpacking. You can do that tomorrow. Go get a bite to eat in the kitchen.” Susan prompted. “I know you are as sore as I am.”
“Yes, Miss Susan.” She curtsied. “I’ll be back to help you undress in just a bit.” She left closing the door softly behind her.
The lower maids were already filling her bath in the adjourning room so she relaxed in a chair, enjoying the warmth of the fire. Her fingers lightly touched her bruised forehead.
“I don’t think it will swell too much,” Abby said.
“I’m just thankful it wasn’t any worse. It happened so fast. Before I could react, Mary and I were all tangled up, wedged between the seats,” Susan explained. “Fortunately, a Mr. Balfour happened by and helped get our carri
age out of the ditch. He was well dressed. Do you know him?”
“Balfour, the name sounds familiar.” Abby’s brow wrinkled. “I can’t remember…”
“It’s of no consequence.” Susan dismissed the matter with a wave of her hand. “I’ll probably never see him again.” It was just as well, for he made her feel things that confused her.
A maid entered, carrying a tray filled with cold meats, cheese and tea.
“Just put it here,” Abby directed the maid as she placed the tray on a small table beside Susan’s chair.
“I’ll let you rest.” Abby leaned over and kissed her cheek. “Have a good night and I’ll see you in the morning.”
Susan eyed the food too tired to eat. She hadn’t eaten much at the wedding luncheon so she forced herself to eat a little.
Mary returned and helped her undress. She stepped in the hot bath, slowly immersed herself up to her chin and relaxed into the warmth of the water. The scent of lavender soap wafted from the steam. Yawning, she closed her eyes and slept.
Susan was dressed early, her muscles still sore from the day before. A knock sounded as Abby entered, a maid following with a tray. “Good, I hoped you would be up. I brought some chocolate and toast to eat before the rest of the house awakens.”
Her stomach rumbled as chocolate aroma drifted through the room. The maid placed the tray on a small table by the fire. Sitting, Abby waved Susan to follow. She poured a cup for them both. Susan settled in a chair, warming her hands on the cup Abby handed her.
“I have been on pins all morning. Why have you come so soon after your fathers wedding?” Abby bit into a piece of toast dripping with butter as she settled back to listen.
“Father is selling Fyne Court,” Susan said.
Abby’s hand flew to her mouth. “No! But you wanted to stay there at Fyne Court. It has been your home all these years.”