by Aileen Fish
Hannah sighed. She hated seeing her brother so broken hearted. He’d fallen hard and fast for Amelia, who saw him only as the sweet brother of her dear friend. Maybe Hannah should put her scheming toward finding him a wife, and leave Laurence to his own devices.
~*~
Flashing his invitation to Lady Kettlemore’s butler, Laurence took in the press of people in front of him on the staircase, all of whom hoped to find enough room to stand inside the ballroom.
What was he thinking in coming here?
A better question was where was the gaming room? That was his sole reason for coming. He’d surprised himself with how seriously he’d considered the propriety of his normal pastimes, now that he had Louisa’s future to consider. It made no sense to him that gaming hells were a bad thing, yet playing cards while one’s wife or sister danced was acceptable.
That was just one more reason why he avoided Society. They bent their rules to suit their needs. Laurence’s opinion was so long as no one was hurt, each man could decide his own limits.
Ignoring the wide-eyed stares of a few of the matrons, Laurence took a spot at the bottom of the staircase. Part of him wished he had the gall to push his way through and go straight to the game room, but he restrained himself.
As he finally neared the top of the staircase, an interminable number of minutes later, the thought occurred to him he should seek out Lady B and say hello before joining the gentlemen. She’d probably enjoy hearing he’d signed the lease on his new home that afternoon.
Yes, an excellent idea to speak with her.
Finding Lady B in the crowd was more difficult than being dealt a winning hand in vingt-et-un. He circled the room slowly, pausing here and there to wait for a matron to turn her head so he could be certain of her identity.
He recognized Hannah before seeing her mother. Well, recognized was a relative term. This beauty resembled David’s sister, but was much too ladylike, too mature, to be the little girl who’d followed them around endlessly on her father’s estate.
Lines of silver ribbons woven through her hair caught the light when she moved her head. Her hairstyle was simple, elegant, allowing her face to shine. Her slender figure somehow demonstrated her gracefulness even as she stood with her friends.
Laurence bristled at the sight of a man eying her in passing. She was too pretty to be there without one of her brothers. Lady B was watchful from a few feet away, but she was no match for some of the men he’d seen in the room. He’d have to speak to Knightwick about the matter, when he saw him next.
Lady B saw Laurence approaching. “Lord Oakhurst, how surprised I am to see you here.”
“Not nearly as surprised as I am.” He acknowledged the introduction to Lady B’s friend, then made small talk about his search for a home and Lady B’s interviews for a nursemaid.
During that time he kept one eye trained on Hannah. When one eye was no longer enough, he excused himself and strolled over to her. “My lady, you are a vision.”
She gasped, and a grin lighted her face. “My lord, I’m so pleased you are here.”
“Are you? How so? I more expected surprise, as your mother expressed.”
“Oh…well…” Her cheeks became decidedly pink. “I think it will be good for Louisa if you raise your standing in Society.”
He doubted that was her reason, but couldn’t imagine what she might actually be thinking. Before he could press the subject, an older man came to claim her for a dance. Curiosity kept Laurence there, even after she took her place for a second set with yet another man.
It seemed the only way he’d be able to spend a few moments with her would be to dance with her. As soon as she returned, he asked.
“I believe the set before the supper dance is free,” she replied.
He bit back a groan. He’d have to wait the entire evening to dance with her. He could go find the cards games until then, but couldn’t bring himself to leave her unattended. No matter the room was packed with people. None of them could be trusted to keep her safe.
Lord Downham walked up to Hannah as if they were on quite familiar terms. Laurence’s eyes narrowed as he studied the man. Downham was something of a popinjay, and wool-headed when it came to matters of politics or finance. He was lucky to have a title and a profitable estate to cover for the fact he’d probably otherwise be penniless in ten years.
Not only that, there were rumors regarding the seduction of a young lady of large income whose father had ended any hope of the match before the worst could happen.
Laurence stood by Hannah’s side, not allowing Downham any closer. The younger man glared at Laurence.
As Downham opened his mouth to speak, Lady Hannah jumped in. “Do you know Lord Oakhurst?”
“Oakhurst, is it? I hadn’t heard.”
Laurence nodded, but said nothing. Hopefully the young earl would recognize it for the slight Laurence intended, is spite of the fact Laurence was merely a baron. Maybe then Downham would leave.
Luck wasn’t on Laurence’s side. Downham turned back to Lady Hannah. “Perhaps we could stroll outside while the musicians are resting?”
Hannah glanced at Laurence, nibbling at her lower lip.
He wasn’t about to give her permission, knowing full well what the man had on his mind. What could Downham say outside that he couldn’t in here? It obviously wasn’t conversation he was hoping for.
She frowned slightly before answering. “Yes.”
He watched them go. He couldn’t follow them without causing a scene. Not alone, anyhow, but he had a way around that. On his way in, he’d seen the widowed Mrs. Turner, a dear friend who was once something more. They’d continued their friendship after ending their liaison. She’d be happy to see him.
“My dear man!” Mrs. Turner held out her hand. “It has been too long.”
“Much too long. If you’d care to walk with me, you may tell me all that has happened since I saw you last.”
She fluttered her fan in front of her face, lowering her eyelids seductively. “Well, not all…”
He chuckled, and managed to keep his pace casual as he led her toward the open double doors. The terrace, lit by torches, had a wide set of steps leading down to the garden, where glowing lanterns hung from the tree branches. Laurence searched the grounds for Hannah. Only a few couples were visible, so they had to be one of them.
“Laurence, did you hear what I asked?”
He snapped out of his thoughts. “I’m sorry, no.”
“I said, the on dits is that you have recently acknowledged your… natural… child.”
Anger soured his gut. “What? Who has said that?”
Mrs. Turner pulled up her sagging gloves. “It’s on everyone’s lips. Didn’t you notice the whispers when you passed through the ballroom?”
“Whispers precede me whenever I attend such an assembly. I care little what is said, most times. But when they suggest my ward is illegitimate, well, they go too far.” He wiped his mouth with the back of his gloved hand, wishing it would take away the bitter taste. “She’s my cousin’s daughter. She cannot be blamed for losing her parents, nor for having one such as me as her only surviving relation. You will do me a kindness if you let it be known she’s not my daughter, natural or otherwise.”
From the corner of his eye, he saw her studying him, but he paid her no mind. At least, not until she made a pensive sound. “What is it?” he asked.
“You have changed since I last saw you. You’ve become someone I’d not expected of you.”
He sighed. Mrs. Turner was probably the only woman around whom he could be himself completely. “I’m trying. This burden is weighing heavily on me. No, I can’t call Louisa a burden. I never want her to hear those words, from me or anyone else. The responsibility is unexpected. I’m still trying to determine just what sort of man I need to be.”
She patted his sleeve. “Just the sort of man you are. You’re so caring and kind, to those you allow close to you. If I’d had children, I’d have
no qualms about you being in their lives.”
Her words cheered him somewhat. Her belief, and that of Lady B, that he was up to the task of raising a child, let him consider the possibility of truth in the idea.
Ahead on the pathway, under the branches of a tree, Laurence noticed a couple standing quite close to one another. Silver thread in the lady’s gown glittered in the light from a nearby lantern. He’d found Hannah.
He hurried his steps. “Why, Lady Hannah, isn’t the garden mystical with the hidden lamps?”
Downham stepped back quickly from where he’d trapped Hannah against the trunk.
Hannah looked more relieved than disappointed. “Yes, I was just telling Lord Downham that same thing.”
“Would you two care to join us as we continue our walk?” Laurence asked.
“That would be lovely.” Hannah stepped out onto the path, forcing Downham to follow. The younger couple led the way.
Mrs. Turner chuckled softly. “Yes, dear man, you have changed.”
Suddenly realizing how much so, he almost turned and ran from the place. The thoughts running through his mind scared him witless. He couldn’t stand by and let Hannah marry the wrong man. If necessary, he’d step in and offer for her. Well, perhaps he wouldn’t act that drastically. He had to agree with Knightwick. Lady Hannah deserved a better man than Laurence. What he could do was make certain she didn’t marry the wrong man.
Chapter Four
The next morning, Laurence rose at an hour closer to when he normally went to sleep. His thoughts raced with all he needed to accomplish. His will needed changing first thing. Louisa was now his sole heir. David Lumley was the most suitable person he could think of as guardian, since he was married and settled with his wonderful wife.
As Laurence bathed, he decided he should pay a visit to Louisa. Since he hadn’t told Lady B about the home he’d leased, he could accomplish that while he was there. She’d agreed to decorate for him, and he needed to advise her what he’d prefer. Her taste ran toward the classical styles, where he’d prefer something simpler, more masculine.
Once he finished his business with his solicitor, he went straight to Lady B’s home. The butler showed him into the drawing room, where, to Laurence’s surprise, half a dozen young men stood about conversing with three young ladies, plus Lady Hannah, Lady B, and another matron. Laurence hesitated only a moment before greeting the ladies.
He’d never considered today might be a day Lady B decided to stay home for callers. He supposed that was better than the two being out calling on others. At least this way he could see them both.
Among the men was Downham. Laurence glared in his direction, his hands tightening into fists at his sides. The man had nerve, playing the gentleman in front of Lady B after nearly seducing Hannah in the garden.
Hannah grinned flirtatiously at Laurence. “I enjoyed dancing with you last night. I had no idea you were so skilled.”
He bowed his head. “I’ve had some practice since Lady B—ridgethorpe,” he caught himself, “hired that dance tutor one summer.” He glanced at Lady B, whose eyes showed the smile her stern glare couldn’t diminish.
“I’m pleased one of you three boys saw some benefit to those lessons,” she said. “I fear Knightwick and David prefer to avoid the dance floor.”
Lady B then said something to the matron beside her, while Laurence found himself the object of some curious glances by the young ladies, who quickly turned away when he met their gazes.
Hannah must have noticed. “Oh, forgive me. Lord Oakhurst, allow me to introduce Miss Thompson, Lady Marianne Grymes, and of course you know Miss Clawson.” She went on to list the young men hovering about. After a pause where no one spoke, she added, “Miss Thompson’s father owns Thompson Imports.”
Why was Hannah behaving as if he were one of her marriage mart friends? He smiled at the young miss. “I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure of meeting him.”
Another uncomfortable pause, and Laurence spoke. “Lady Hannah, you’ll be happy to know I’ve found a home. Once I furnish it, Louisa and I may move in.”
Miss Thompson and Lady Marianne exchanged whispers behind their hands.
Hannah’s lips tightened. “Lord Oakhurst intends to raise his ward here in Town, where she may be close to him. I think that’s so good of him, when he could have let her remain at her parents’ home. Children should know they are loved, don’t you think?”
Lady Marianne sniffed. “I agree. We were allowed to visit with our parents every evening.”
Hannah offered Laurence a look that clearly said that was the furthest thing from what she’d been thinking.
Laurence waited patiently for the guests to take their leave. Hannah thanked Downham for the posy he’d brought, and Laurence grimaced. Presumptuous twit. Knightwick should warn his sister about men like that who poured on the charm until they seduced a girl, then walked on to the next. Hannah was too sweet, he thought yet again, she needed someone watching out for her.
As soon as the others had gone, Lady B motioned to the chair beside hers. “I am so pleased to see you here today, dear boy. What brings you out for morning calls?”
“To be honest, I hadn’t considered you might have guests. I’d hoped to visit Louisa and see how she’s adjusting to a new environment.”
“How lovely. You’ll be pleased to know I’ve engaged a nursemaid for you. She’s to come here tomorrow, so you may make arrangements to let Molly go.”
“Excellent.” He told her about the house he’d chosen, then rose. “If you’ll allow me, I’ll go up and see Louisa.”
“Of course. If you need anything, please ask.”
He thanked her and as he walked out of the room, Hannah joined him and preceded him up the staircase.
“Louisa is such a pitiful thing. She’s so sad, but she doesn’t cry. All she does is sit in a corner and hug the doll we gave her. I wish I knew what to do to bring her around.” She glanced back at Laurence, her concern written on her face.
“Don’t expect me to have the answer. Has her nurse had any suggestions?”
“None. She is almost as distressed as Louisa. I hope the new nursemaid has some ideas. Mama said she has a good deal of experience.”
He hoped so, too. As much as he’d enjoyed the large family atmosphere at Bridgethorpe Manor, he was more the instigator of the shenanigans than the comforter of ills.
The scene was much as Hannah described when Laurence entered the small nursery. Little Louisa sat on a stool at the lone, large window, a bear wrapped in her arms, staring out the window. He walked to her and knelt on one knee beside her. “Good afternoon, Louisa.”
She peered up at him, her eyes rimmed with pink, and dark shadows beneath. “I wish to go home now.”
His heart ached and he sighed. “I know. We will have a new home now. New to you and to me. I’m rather uncertain about moving, as I’ve lived in the same place for many years. Do you think you can help me adjust to a new place?”
“I don’t know.”
“Perhaps we can help each other. And you may help me choose some toys for you to have in your new nursery.”
“Like…a ball?”
“If you’d like. A bear, I think. A doll.”
Hannah had been watching them from a distance. “You must have books. Do you like stories, Louisa?”
“I like stories. And biscuits. And a puppy.”
“A puppy…” Laurence tossed a warning glance at Hannah. “I don’t know if that would be a good idea.”
“I want a puppy.” Louisa’s voice had found some strength.
A strange sound came from Hannah, something like a strangled snort.
Patience. He needed to remember that. “We can discuss that another time. Would you care to play ball with me?”
“No. I want Mama and Papa.”
Another snort from behind him. The chit had no sympathy for the child’s, or his, position. “I know you do. If I could bring them to you, I would. For now, you mu
st settle for me. Will that be satisfactory?”
“No.”
Instead of snorting this time, Hannah came forward. “Change is difficult, isn’t it, Louisa? I find myself at a loss at the moment. All of my sisters are at home in the country and I have no one to play with. Would you like to be my friend?”
Louisa considered this, then nodded.
“How lovely. We shall play at my house today, and maybe tomorrow. When you move into your house, I will come play there.”
“When will Mama come play?”
A knife lanced through Laurence’s heart at the pain the girl must be feeling. “She can’t come play anymore, Louisa. She and your Papa had to go to heaven. You have me, now. I know it’s not the same, but I hope you will come to be happy in our new life together.”
“I want to go to heaven, too.”
Laurence pleaded to Hannah with his eyes.
“Your turn will come, but not today. Did Nan bring you some pretty gowns to wear? Let’s go see what she found.” Hannah held out her hand and Louisa took it, following her to the clothes press in a corner of the room.
Laurence stood and watched in awe as Hannah distracted the child with such ease. Having grown up with so many younger siblings, she had much practice. How many years would it take before it came that naturally to him?
He’d never imagined himself to be in this position. He’d never planned on having a family of his own. As much as he believed Louisa should be raised in a family such as the Lumley’s he had no idea how to bring that to her. He’d never felt loved as a child, not from his parents, at least. His mother had died when he was so young, and his father hadn’t been the demonstrative sort.
~*~
Hannah held up each of the four gowns so Louisa could see them. “I have some ribbon that will match this one. And some flowers in this rosy shade. We shall buy you a bonnet and I will add them to it. Would you like that?”
“Yes.” Her voice was back to the quiet mouse again.