by Mariel Grey
At Glenhurst Hall, Monique greeted them and tried unsuccessfully to hide her surprise when Chalifour escorted her inside. "How is it you've come to escort Lucy to us?" Monique asked.
"I found Miss Goodwin at Epsom Downs. I'll let her tell you the story. I must be off now that I've safely delivered her to your care." Chalifour gave a small bow and departed.
The front door closed behind Chalifour and Monique turned to look at Lucy, her eyes wide. "What was that all about? How did he come to bring you here?"
"Oh, Monique. Let's go sit down. Actually, could I please have a glass of sherry?"
"Of course! But sherry, really? It's so early yet. Are you sure you don't want tea instead?"
"I'm sure. Really, I am. You might have guessed, but things didn't go well."
Lucy and Monique ensconced themselves in the salon. The morning sun filtered into the room through small colored glass panes which outlined the main frame of the window. Lucy sipped the sherry, casting her eyes idly about the room. She had longed to confide in Monique and discuss everything. Now that she was here, she was having difficulty marshaling her thoughts and her courage.
"So what happened? Did you win?"
"Win? I never even got to race. Chalifour came and dragged me out before the race even started."
"Dragged you out? As in bodily?"
Lucy nodded.
"Oh my!"’
Lucy grimaced and nodded again. "Now you know why I need the sherry."
It pained Lucy to keep secrets from her friend. Until recently, the thought had never even occurred to her. They had confided in each other about everything since childhood. Lucy was completely alone now. She could not confide in anyone.
Now that her hopes of winning the Oaks had been crushed, Lucy needed to find another avenue to get her hands on a large sum of money. What if she couldn't? What if Perdan demanded more money than they had available? Their family name would be destroyed and they would be ruined. Her heart lurched at the thought.
Lucy had only succeeded in making matters worse by signing that contract. The agreement with Chalifour meant they would share all of the spring foals and there would be no outside stud fees forthcoming this year. With Lucien unable to race, there was no chance for an influx of money from that avenue to help tide them through the year either.
Could she do the unthinkable if it became necessary? Could she offer herself to Perdan? Lucy shuddered and her stomach heaved. Perdan was a vile and repulsive man. Best make sure it doesn't become necessary.
Think. What was she going to do? Lucy couldn't just march into the bank and demand a loan. Was there anyone she could ask? Wait a minute. Lucy sat up straight. Why hadn't she thought of it earlier? Could she be so ignorant? The answer might have been in front of her the entire time. Why not ask Monique's brother for a loan? Lucy looked at Monique and smiled.
Chapter Twenty Three
Lucy rummaged through her borrowed gowns. Yes, this was the one. She smiled. The green gown accentuated her figure and complemented her coloring. The dress was the same one Lady Elizabeth particularly liked on her. It seemed like a good idea to dress in her most flattering gown if she intended to ask a man for a loan.
The maid appeared and assisted Lucy in dressing and styling her hair, unleashing a flood of homesick thoughts. Lucy missed Millie's saucy attitude that never failed to lift her spirits and make her laugh. What a blessing Millie had been after her father's death. Millie also had a magical touch that could tame Lucy’s unruly locks. Lucy could only hope she would be home soon. The maid finished and Lucy stood tall and straight and surveyed her reflection in the mirror. Satisfied, she descended to the salon. Mustering her brightest smile, Lucy entered the room where Monique and Glenhurst waited.
"You look lovely this evening," Lord Glenhurst said.
"Thank you for your compliments, you are far too kind." Lucy simpered, fluttering her lashes. From the corner of her eye, she saw Monique's puzzled face. Monique doubtless knew she was up to something.
There were no guests this evening so tonight was the perfect opportunity for Lucy to approach Lord Glenhurst for a loan. The subject of money was considered gauche by the ton and Lucy needed to be circumspect. Lucy perched herself on her favorite sofa upholstered in a light blue silk with scrolled ends and a dark mahogany frame with small rosettes carved into the center. The sofa was the perfect complement to the wallpaper of striped blue and cream. The conversation was leisurely and she chatted with Lord Glenhurst and Monique about banal matters. Lucy began to relax when Monique's brother inquired about her attendance at Epsom Downs.
"Yes, I was in Epsom yesterday, though, most regrettably I was forced to leave before the main race began."
"Pity. I was hoping you could enlighten me. There was apparently some of sort scandal that occurred just prior to the beginning of the race. I've yet to receive a full report, though I believe some woman was attempting to ride dressed as a man. Can you imagine such foolishness?"
Lucy and Monique's eyes met across the room. "Well, if it's true, I'm sure there must have been good reason," Lucy said.
"I can't see how. Why would a woman want to race amongst men when she could race against other women?"
"l don't believe the other races for women offer purses, or at least substantial ones."
Glenhurst paused, considering her comment. "Hmm, I guess I could see the attraction if you were racing solely for the purse."
"Besides, it seems to me that men race for the purse as well as the bragging rights," Lucy said.
Glenhurst laughed. "You're right, of course! If you're going to race, why not race for both?"
Lucy flashed a radiant smile in his direction. "So, Lord Glenhurst, are you racing any of your horses this year?"
"No, I'm sad to say that currently, all of my horses are either too old or too young for the major races. Though next year I may be squarely in the running, so to speak." Glenhurst smiled at his own witticism.
It was Lucy’s turn to laugh. "I know how your horses feel! I'm too young to be a spinster yet and too old to be a considered good marriage material."
Glenhurst laughed so hard, he spit his wine. "That may be, but I've yet to see a man not affected by your charms."
"I think you’re being overly generous in your compliments, but I appreciate them all the same."
"No, I'm not being overly generous. You would be a sought after bride should you make yourself available, Lucy. There are many men who would be interested in you, regardless of your station."
Lucy smiled at Glenhurst's use of her familiar name. Before she asked him for a loan, Lucy wanted Glenhurst to feel comfortable with her based on the familiarity of their family history. "I repeat, you are far too kind."
"Not at all."
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Monique pretend to vomit. Best get on with it. "Lord Glenhurst, I know you are aware my brother was recently injured."
"Yes, has he improved since we last spoke of it?"
"Yes, he is much better now, though at first it was rather frightening."
"I'm glad to hear it," he said sincerely.
"I know it's not my place, but Lucien has a fractured leg and has been unfit for travel." Lucy glanced at Monique before continuing, "I feel compelled to speak to you in his stead."
Glenhurst set his wine glass down and gave her his full attention. "What is it that you feel so compelled to speak about?"
Lucy swallowed, suddenly nervous. She would be extremely forward in speaking with Glenhurst about a loan. How would he react? To ask him would presume a great deal on their families' friendships and may not be welcomed.
Her mouth dry, Lucy plunged ahead, "During my brother's convalescing, it came to my attention we have a large debt we owe to a certain gentleman. This man is disagreeable to say the least."
Lucy looked at Glenhurst, wondering what she should say next, found herself blurting it out. "I wanted to ask you if you would consider loaning my brother the money so he might pay you inst
ead?" In her peripheral vision, Lucy saw Monique's jaw drop and her eyes fairly pop out of her skull.
"Exactly how much money are we talking about?"
"Six thousand pounds," Lucy said.
Glenhurst jerked in surprise and looked at her sharply. "That's a considerable sum of money, particularly for people of your station. May I inquire how your brother found himself owing this sum of money?"
"I'm not sure. I've not had the opportunity to speak with him about it."
"So, he's not aware we are having this conversation?"
"No."
"And you don't even know what this debt is for?"
"No."
"Then I suggest you speak with your brother. He may have plans of which you are unaware. It's also my firm belief that my discussing this with you is highly improper. It is, after all, your brother's business and these types of decisions belong to him, not to you." There was an edge to Glenhurst's voice.
Lucy's cheeks warmed and she dropped her eyes. Cringing inwardly, she said, "I beg your pardon. I did not wish to offend you."
"I suggest we forget we ever discussed this matter. The only thing you need to be concerned with right now is finding a suitable husband. Both of you." Glenhurst stared at Lucy and then at Monique.
Monique sniffed. "You needn't worry about me. I've already begun my search."
Glenhurst swung his gaze back to Lucy. "And you? You'll be on the shelf before too long. Did you want me to begin making some discreet inquiries among a few select eligible young men?"
How did we get from me asking for a loan to me avoiding marriage? "Your offer is exceedingly kind, but I am not quite ready for that step yet."
"Nonsense. Both you and Monique need to find a young man. I'll begin making those inquiries. Perhaps in the next evening or so we can invite some suitable young men for dinner."
Panic rising, Lucy said, "I appreciate your interest, truly I do, but I must return home to see to my brother's welfare."
"I'm sure your brother's welfare will be much improved if he knows he will not have to worry about your welfare. Besides, maybe by tomorrow I'll have the details on the woman who attempted to race in the Oaks. I'm sure it will be an entertaining story."
"It's bound to be fascinating, however, I feel I really must leave tomorrow." Egads! I can't be here when he discovers it was me at the race.
A slight scowl crossed Glenhurst's face. "I'm afraid I must insist you stay another day or so. Your father would have agreed. I'm positive. I'm sure your brother would as well. It's Season and you have certain, well, unique opportunities to meet eligible young men here, particularly staying under my roof and with my sponsorship. Now it's high time both you and Lady Monique settled down. I'll expect you here at least through tomorrow evening."
Lucy groaned inwardly. This was not what she needed. Lucy needed to leave tomorrow. Evading Glenhurst's matchmaking efforts was bad enough, but she had to escape before he discovered she was the woman who created the scandal at Epsom Downs. It was also time to face Lucien. Lucy plastered a weak smile on her face. "But of course, Lord Glenhurst. As you wish."
****
Lucy’s primary goal remained the same. How was she going to rectify this situation? Unfortunately, Lucy was no closer to solving their dilemma than when she first confronted this mess. They still needed money. Her plan to race in the Oaks had been destroyed. Monique's brother had rebuffed her request for a loan. How was she going to manage it? The question circulated endlessly through Lucy's mind.
Lucy glanced at Monique, who continued perusing her wardrobe. Monique's comments washed across Lucy like waves tumbling across the shoreline. Lucy made the appropriate perfunctory replies when expected and otherwise remained quiet with her own thoughts.
"I still can't believe you asked my brother for money. What was going through your mind?"
"I didn't think it through. I'm sorry. I should have known he would never speak to me about monetary matters. I'm just feeling a little desperate."
"It's a loan, Lucy. I keep telling you, Most people buy things and conduct business on credit. I really think you're putting far too much into this. I'm sure there's a perfectly good reason for this loan. Now that Lucien is getting better, he'll have it well in hand. We've spoken about this before."
Monique remained unaware of the threat of blackmail and was therefore unable to understand Lucy's angst over what she thought was simply a large debt. Lucy envied her friend's blissful ignorance. Monique's primary concern at the moment was wondering who would be in attendance for dinner this evening and what she should wear. Lucy lay across her friend's bed and watched idly while her friend tried on one gown and then another.
"Why didn't you tell me what you were going to do?"
"I really hadn't decided to do ask him until shortly before I joined you in the salon. Besides, I didn't think your brother would appreciate my involving you. I’m sure it was pretty obvious to him you were completely unaware of my intentions, so at least he’s not annoyed with you."
Lucy sat up in the bed. "You should have seen your face!" Lucy made an exaggerated look of surprise, mocking Monique, and started giggling.
Monique glared at Lucy with an annoyed expression. She couldn't remain vexed for long and joined in with Lucy's laughter. "Did I really look that daft?"
"I'm not saying anything further."
"You don't have to. Your face just said it all," Monique said ruefully.
"Oh, Monique. You just looked surprised. It really was kind of funny, especially since you're always so beautiful and perfect. You make me feel so clumsy sometimes."
"Now you’re the one being funny." Monique went back to trying on gowns.
Goodness! The woman had a wardrobe. Lucy rolled over onto her back on the thick mattress and slid back into her reverie. She had exhausted her options. Maybe she should pay Perdan another visit. Lucy’s stomach churned at the thought of him. Maybe it was time to try and save Lucien and their family name.
Lucy had only exacerbated their problems. Now she might really be forced to consider the unthinkable. After all, she could no longer lay claim to being a virgin.
Chapter Twenty Four
Chalifour squinted against the morning sun streaming through the window of the bedchamber. The time was far later than he usually rose each day. A little too much brandy the evening before had left his brain addled and his eyes scratchy. Images of Lucy strayed into his mind, like those that had haunted him the night before. Chalifour shook his head back and forth to clear it. Now he would get the full measure of Lucy's deceit.
It was going to be a long ride to the Goodwin residence today. Before he left, he'd better get breakfast. Chalifour ambled into the dining room and found his sister munching intently on a strip of bacon. Elizabeth looked up when he entered.
Elizabeth shoved the remnant of the bacon strip into her mouth and daintily licked her fingers, "A bit late for you, isn't it?"
Chalifour shot Elizabeth a baleful look before sitting. "And you would be concerned for what reason?"
"I would hate for something to happen to you, particularly before you've paid for my new gowns."A wicked smile curved Elizabeth's lips.
"I'm touched by your concern for me," Chalifour said dryly. He took a large swallow of coffee. Oh, but that was good going down. They finished breakfast in an amicable silence. Chalifour raised his eyes to glance at his sister and broke the silence. "Tell me, Elizabeth. What do you think of Lucy Goodwin?"
Elizabeth looked startled."Why do you ask?"
"I have my reasons."
Elizabeth lifted her eyebrows questioningly at him. Chalifour remained silent and she finally answered, "I'm not sure I know her well enough to answer. What exactly so you want to know. Are you asking if she's pretty, cordial, smart? What do you want to know?"
"Elizabeth, you're very good at discerning things about people. Your perceptions are generally quite accurate. So I'm asking you, what do you think of Miss Goodwin's character? Would you trust her?"
Elizabeth looked nonplused by the questions. She stared off into space for a moment, then back at him. "Yes, I think I would trust her."
"Do you get the feeling there is any great character defect in her? Or she is of questionable morality? Is she trustworthy?"
"As I said, I don't really know her well enough to answer these questions. However, my instincts tell me she is honorable and trustworthy."
"Thank you, that's what I needed to know." Chalifour rose from the table. Walking past his sister, Chalifour leaned over to kiss her forehead.
Chalifour's introspection preoccupied him for the better part of the ride to the Goodwin residence and the trip seemed faster than Chalifour would have imagined. Arriving at the residence, Chalifour sat in the coach, delaying. He almost dreaded what Lucien might tell him, but he wanted to know the truth. Chalifour's thoughts couldn't escape this woman. He kept remembering Lucy's head resting on his chest, her incredible mouth curled in a sleepy smile. Chalifour needed to know where things really stood.
After being admitted into the Goodwin house, Chalifour was ushered into the salon. Occupying the same chair as on his previous visit, Chalifour continued to ponder how best to approach the subject with Lucien. Chalifour had played and replayed this meeting in his mind during the trip here.
A servant who identified himself as Alistair came to escort him upstairs. Entering Lucien's bedroom, Chalifour noticed the windows had been opened wide to accept the cool spring breezes. His gaze moved to the bed and Lucien. Chalifour stiffened and froze in the doorway, speechless.
Although Chalifour was now aware Lucien and Lucy were twins, he was completely unprepared for the likeness. The similarity between the two was hard to reconcile in his mind. He could have been looking at Lucy, except for the shorter hair and some indefinable masculine quality in Lucien's face.