by Sahara Kelly
His voice grew soft as he spoke her name and she risked a quick glance to catch a glint of heat in his eyes. It unsettled her for a moment as she rose, but then she smiled, putting Giles’s advice to proper use. Her heart knew this man, knew his worth and his affections for her.
It also knew the others. Their time would come soon.
After Daniel left, she resumed her seat and penned a quick note to Fivetrees for Judith. It would be a treat to see the girl again, and would also relieve Adalyn’s mind as to her welfare.
She smiled as she signed and sealed the brief missive; for the first time she really felt like the Lady of Wolfbridge Manor. In more ways than she’d ever anticipated.
Thus a few hours later, a small carriage arrived at Wolfbridge, bearing Miss Fairhurst and her maid.
Adalyn awaited her at the door, sending Giles out with an umbrella to protect them as best he could from the downpour that refused to lessen.
Judith entered with a gasp and a grin and a slightly wilted feather clinging to the brim of her bonnet. “My goodness. Can you believe this rain? If I were not aware of the reason for it, I would be sure that the clouds decided to release their burden just so they could dampen my journey.”
The smile warmed Adalyn, and she readily offered a hug and a light kiss of welcome, as Jeremy relieved the visitors of their garments. “You’re here, and that is by far the most important thing. Please, come in and warm yourself. There’s a pleasant fire going in the parlour, and tea on the way. We shall ignore this disgusting weather and have ourselves a fine coze.”
“How lovely,” Judith sighed with delight and slipped her arm through Adalyn’s. “I knew you would be kind. I wanted to visit before now, but the housekeeper insisted it was too soon.”
“She was probably right,” demurred Adalyn. “But you’re here now. And I’m very happy to see you smiling.”
They entered the parlour and Judith exclaimed at the bright blaze, walking to it and holding out her hands. “What a welcome sight.”
Adalyn saw Judith’s maid take a seat outside in the hall, and noticed Jeremy talking to her. She would be well taken care of until her mistress was ready to leave.
“So Judith. You must tell me how you are. And how things have been for you since our last—and unfortunate—meeting.” She took a chair by the fire.
“How am I?” Judith shrugged. “I survive, Lady Adalyn. That’s about all I am allowed to do at the moment.”
Adalyn suddenly felt much older than her twenty years, when faced with Judith’s rather dramatic pronouncement. “Oh dear. Can you explain that?”
Subsiding into a matching chair, Judith’s eyes filled with tears. “I do not have any idea of what I am to do, my Lady. Lawyers come and go, and wave their papers and their quills at me, but say nothing of substance. A man who said he was a relative of my uncle’s visited me, and that by rights Fivetrees should be his.” She looked up. “He was a little frightening.”
Adalyn frowned. “In what way?”
“It’s—it’s hard to describe.” Her hands clenched in her lap, turning her knuckles white. “The way he looked at me. And the things he asked about me and my family. Then…he walked around the room. It was as if he was taking inventory, Lady Adalyn. As if he already owned the house.” She swallowed. “And me.”
This news was disturbing indeed, and Adalyn thought carefully before speaking. From Judith’s words, it seemed as if Baxter Fairhurst might be intending to offer for h. It would be logical for him, but for her? A naive girl?
“How old are you, Judith, if you’ll forgive my asking?”
“I’ve just turned eighteen,” she answered.
“And Sir Amery was your legal guardian?”
Judith nodded. “My papa died late last year as a result of a fall while hunting. My Mama passed away when I was a little girl. So that only left Sir Amery. I know of no other family to whom I might turn.”
“There are other Fairhursts, I understand, but you have no guardian at the moment? None of the rest of the Fairhursts have contacted you?”
“I’ve not heard a thing from anyone,” she replied. “I have no idea whether to expect to or not.” She looked downcast. “My family was not of the highest importance to the Fairhurst line, my Lady. I rather think my mama was of a lower class than ordinarily tolerated by society.”
“Your papa married beneath him?” Adalyn asked gently.
“I believe so. It was regarded as a remarkable boon that Uncle Amery accepted someone like me into his home.”
“Hmm.” Adalyn considered the implications. “You know, Judith, if you don’t mind I’d like to ask Giles to join us. He is a man of great wisdom and I rely on his counsel. Perhaps he could add something useful regarding your current situation.”
Judith looked hesitant. “I suppose that would be all right. If you think it might help…”
Taking that as an endorsement, Adalyn rose and tugged the bellpull. Giles responded within moments, leading her to believe he may well have been outside in the hall.
“My Lady?”
“Giles, we are wondering if you might be able to assist Judith. She has found herself without a guardian upon the sad demise of her uncle. What should one do under those circumstances? Do you have any idea?”
Giles walked to Judith’s chair and bowed to her, taking her hand. “Firstly, Miss Fairhurst, let me tell you how saddened I am that you have been visited by such a tragedy. And also that we here at Wolfbridge, all of us, are dedicated to offering whatever assistance we can.”
Judith’s shoulders relaxed and her tension left her at Giles’s kind words. “Thank you, Giles.” She managed a smile.
“Now. Your guardianship. You are not yet of an age, am I correct?”
“Judith is eighteen, Giles. Just.”
“Very well,” he nodded at Adalyn’s statement. “And you’ve had no legal notice, or letters or anything that might indicate anyone else who is now your guardian?”
“I have not. The lawyers who have visited have been more concerned about Fivetrees. As has Mr. Baxter Fairhurst. I was just telling Lady Adalyn about him.”
Giles glanced at Adalyn, one eyebrow raised in question.
“Not a positive experience, I’m afraid,” she answered his silent query. “Mr. Baxter Fairhurst surveyed the property and Judith with equal interest from the sound of things.” She shook her head. “She has given me to understand that the Fairhurst family are not inclined to look favourably on her parents, due to her mama’s background being—um—of a different class.”
He acknowledged that statement with a brief grimace. “I see.” He turned back to Judith. “Well then. The first thing we should do is establish your status, my dear. And I believe we should contact London to pursue this matter. The sooner the better, since although they may pay scant attention to you, it’s unlikely that a property like Fivetrees will be allowed to go untenanted for very long.”
Adalyn blinked. “London?”
“I think the Court at Chancery is the organisation tasked with the matter of guardianship, my Lady.”
“What do they do?” Judith looked at him, her nerves betrayed by the slight tremor in her voice.
“They can pursue your family line, Miss Fairhurst. If nobody has applied to be your guardian, they are free to appoint another.”
“But I know no one else,” she worried.
“Yes you do,” said Adalyn. “You know Giles.”
There was stunned silence for a few moments.
“My Lady?”
“Lady Adalyn…”
Two surprised faces turned her way. She suppressed a grin. “If you think about it, it makes perfect sense. Giles is an excellent guide, father-figure and advisor. His proximity to Fivetrees cannot be bettered…we are neighbours after all. If he were appointed your guardian, he could offer not only his own wisdom, but the entire Wolfbridge family as your protectors.”
Judith blinked. “Oh.”
“That is who we are, my dear,”
said Adalyn gently. “We are here to help. To do what we can to make the lives of others better. And in that way we also learn to appreciate our own.”
“Lady Adalyn has the right of it, Miss Fairhurst. However, she may have leapt a few steps ahead in the matter of your guardianship.” Giles shot a look at Adalyn that spoke volumes.
“I think it is an idea worth considering,” Adalyn lifted her chin. “There are many advantages for us both.”
“I’m sure you are right, Ma’am,” said Giles, his tone wry. “I look forward to hearing about them.”
“I’m ready for tea,” said Adalyn cheerfully. “Shall I ring?”
“No, no. Let me, my Lady. I believe Jeremy has the tray prepared. Just a moment.” He gave Judith’s hand a gentle pat and then left the ladies.
“I think you may have shocked Mr. Giles, Lady Adalyn.” Judith looked at her. “He didn’t know what you were going to say, did he?”
“You noticed?” chuckled Adalyn. “It’s all right. I very seldom ever surprise Giles. But the idea came to me as we were talking, Judith. I think it is a sound one. There are reasons why I cannot invite you to stay here at Wolfbridge, I am not able to be at your side every minute at Fivetrees, and I know what it’s like to be completely alone. To feel helpless, and…to a certain extent hopeless.”
“It is—awful.” Judith nodded.
“Yes, it is. Which is why I want to make sure you—and everyone—understands that you have the Manor standing beside you. It will offer a measure of protection and security you would not otherwise have.”
“I would sleep better at night, my Lady. I can tell you that right now.”
“Call me Adalyn,” she smiled. “I think I asked you that the first time we met.”
“It seems years ago, not weeks.” Judith stared at the fire. “I still would love to know what happened that night.”
Adalyn saw an opening for a question that had been niggling at the back of her mind. “Let me ask you something if I may,” she began. “Since that night, have any of your staff left?”
Judith frowned a little and turned to look at her. “That’s an odd question, but…I think yes? One of the footmen was getting married, so he left, since he wasn’t sure if he’d be paid anymore.”
“Are you paying them?”
Judith nodded. “Not me personally, but the estate accounts provide wages, and the housekeeper is now taking care of that.”
“That’s good,” Adalyn approved. “Anyone else that you can think of?”
“Well, let me see.” Judith pursed her lips. “Yes. Charles, who was Uncle Amery’s valet…he left since there was nobody to valet for anymore, and also…um…one of the other footmen, William. Then there was, oh what was her name,…” she snapped her fingers… “Margaret. She was a housemaid and would take care of guests, as I understand it. Those were the only other two to leave.”
“Hmm.” Adalyn thought about that. “Do you recall William’s surname?”
Judith looked as if she wanted to laugh. “Yes. It was—er—Fricklebottom.”
“Oh.” Adalyn blinked. “That is quite…memorable, isn’t it?”
The two women looked at each other, nodded, and then burst into laughter, sharing a completely inappropriate touch of humour.
Jeremy, bringing in the tea tray at that moment, was delighted to hear the sound, as was Giles, standing in the hallway outside, and wondering what the devil his mistress was up to.
Dear Diary,
I scarce know where to begin - so many things have been happening here, and so rapidly.
Sadly, I must report that Trick is not returned to us yet, but lingers in his incarceration. Being still at the Roundhouse, Jane can act as intermediary, and she is very devoted to her daily visits. I am deeply in her debt for her reports as to his health and demeanour, both of which she tells me are positive at the moment.
Once the legalities are affirmed, and our refusal to part with any Wolfbridge property relayed to Mr. Baxter Fairhurst, things will change for Trick - and not in a good way. He will be remanded into custody at Deepmere, a considerable distance further away from Wolfbridge.
I am determined to see him soon, and to ensure Jane can continue her visits, although they may lessen in frequency. My heart will not be whole until he is home here with us once more.
I am coming to understand what it means to be the Lady of Wolfbridge, dear Diary. Giles gave me the letter penned by the very first Lady, in which it describes the duties, obligations and…well…benefits of the position. I am to protect the Manor and its lands - which I can do with ease and willingness, unless it involves one of my gentlemen. I made a difficult choice, but it was the right one, even though it separated me from Trick for too long.
I am to help others wherever I can and bring honour to the Wolfbridge name. This also I hope to do as time goes on. And finally, I am to love and cherish all the men who have dedicated themselves to serving Wolfbridge and its Lady. Yes, all of them.
I took my first real step toward that end the other night when I welcomed Daniel into my bed - and my body. Can I describe those hours? Not here. Not in words. The emotions engendered by our night together were fiercely passionate, and I can truthfully say Daniel’s tender and exquisite attentions have changed my life. Changed me. I learned what it is to lie with a man who cherishes me and wants nothing more than to give me pleasure. It was an experience that will stay burned into my heart for as long as I live, so I need no words to write any details here. Suffice it to say that I am exploring all the benefits of being Lady of Wolfbridge. I believe I may explore Jeremy next.
Am I wicked to eagerly anticipate that event? Many would judge me so. But I no longer judge myself since I am encouraged by the wisdom of all the Ladies of Wolfbridge who came before me. I trust that in some way I can pass this confidence along to those who will follow me down this unique road. But that is for the future.
For the now, I continue to pursue the inquiry into who might have effected the demise of Amery Fairchild. Judith’s visit was enlightening; she is a sweet girl who is growing up rapidly amidst a great deal of pain and confusion. Nothing ages one more quickly…I can attest to that fact.
It came to me that if somehow Giles could be appointed her guardian, then he could make suitable arrangements for her, and get her away from Fivetrees - and Baxter Fairhurst. I do not like the sound of that man’s interests toward Judith and the property; combined with his accusation against Trick, he has become the villain of my continuing story.
I am determined to also pursue the two servants who departed Fivetrees after the terrible night. Does such a departure indicate guilt of some kind? I won’t know until they are found and questioned. I shall ask Daniel to make those inquiries in the morning.
I will admit to having gambled a little on Giles and his abilities. I pray he has a contact in London who might welcome Judith’s presence; staying at Fivetrees is a risk I’d prefer she not have to take. She cannot live at Wolfbridge with me, which removes so much of our ability to protect her. Once again, I shall ask him about this in the morning.
I trust he is not too upset with me, although he did not make an appearance last evening. He mentioned that he had business to attend to, and since I really have little idea of what he actually does, other than take such good care of me and Wolfbridge, I cannot be concerned at his absence now and again.
The others kept me company, and we spent a fruitful time discussing the Fairhurst murder, for such is how we now think of it.
Sir Amery was not a well-liked man, but as Evan so wisely commented - it takes more than a dislike for someone to instigate a killing. There has to be a motive somewhere, and we are all agreed that money is most like the root cause. Who would benefit? Who has something to gain by removing Sir Amery?
I am determined to find out.
In the meantime, I am following the dictates of that interesting letter. Although I yearn to feel strong arms around me, embracing my nakedness with their own warmth, I am ref
raining from inviting such actions for a little while. The feelings they arouse are monumental, and I love to lie and remember them before I fall asleep. This gives me great pleasure, and should help me through for a little while before the yearnings become cravings and I ask Jeremy to lie with me.
And that is something I eagerly anticipate.
I love him. I love them. All of them. They have quietly slipped into my heart, curled up and made a place for themselves that is now part of me. So I do not feel any concerns about lying with each of them. This house, this Manor…within its walls there is no prejudice, bigotry or jealousy. There are no disgusted looks or crude insinuations. No scandal will result from what goes on here at Wolfbridge. We love each other, care for each other, and take that caring outside to do the best we can to bring others such happiness.
Are we a level above Society in our outlook and our behaviour?
Or are we - as I’m sure many would assert - several levels below?
An interesting question for a theoretical debate. Perhaps I might ask it many years from now, when I have grandchildren from a different generation, a different Society. It would be fascinating to hear their thoughts.
I never imagined writing words like these, dear Diary. My life before Wilkerson was so…small. Bound by convention, by the lack of position so craved by my parents, and by the dictates of what my Mama thought I should be. To even think thoughts such as those above, let alone act on them, would have been viewed as disgusting. I would have been beaten quite thoroughly, I believe, deserving of such punishment in their eyes, since it might well lessen my value to them.
It is strange how little they enter my thoughts now. I have accepted that they never loved me, or even cared for me very much, since I was not the son they yearned for. I suppose I should hope that the settlement Wilkerson paid them for me was handsome and that it has bought them the affirmation they sought.
But I don’t hope that. I don’t hope anything at all for them, since I have now learned what real affection, loyalty and commitment mean. I have seen and experienced such things. The two people who bore me and raised me…well, they must have been incapable of the finer emotions.