by Lora Thomas
A smug expression came to Arthur. “Seems that a man had purchased the land between the two men…not that Drysdale was aware.”
“And you are that man,” Thomas drolly replied.
“Indeed, I am.”
“So if Drysdale was willing to sell, why did you not buy it?”
“That is not the question,” Joshua said. “The question is, how did Drysdale not know that you had purchased the land? Why would he think that Adkins still owned it?”
“I am a silent partner. I asked Adkins to keep it anonymous.”
“Why?” Joshua asked.
Thomas answered, “Because he wants to be the neutral zone between the two men. Have his hand in each pot and be in the know and ready to pounce when one goes under.”
Joshua shook his head. “That makes no sense. If there was land between the two, and Drysdale wanted peace, how was he not getting it with your land between them?”
Arthur crossed his arms over his chest. “You see, I am building a few establishments myself. An area for fisticuffs, a tailor, another hotel.”
“So, the construction in the distance is on your property?” Thomas asked.
“Indeed.”
A look of revelation came to Thomas. “You bastard. You only invited us here to ask for money.”
“Au contraire!” Arthur declared.
“Good.”
“I also wanted to brag.”
“Have you gone mad?” Joshua asked.
“Shit,” Thomas mumbled.
“Now, gentlemen,” Arthur began. “Do not say ‘no’ just yet. See what Eden holds. Survey the lands, participate in the merriment and games. Explore the hidden caverns.”
“What?” Joshua asked. “Hidden caverns?”
“Yes. You see, just down the beach, on my land, is a cliff with hidden caverns where the walls have primitive paintings with colorful shells decorating the walls. The beach near the caverns is unique. Several rock-lined pools are nearby where people can splash without fully immersing themselves into the ocean.”
“I find it hard to believe that Adkins sold you such prime real estate,” Thomas said.
Arthur shrugged with indifference. “He was a little soused at the time.”
“You took advantage of a man who was foxed?” Joshua repeated with laughter. “My, my, Artie, you are a sneaky old bastard, are you not.”
“I prefer opportunist.”
“And Adkins was not angry about what you pulled?” Thomas asked.
“He was. Until he realized who I am connected with.” Arthur’s eyes landed on Thomas.
Thomas scowled. “What do I have to do with any of this?”
“You have connections with the wealthy and titled.”
“My father made certain that my family name is tainted. Or have you forgotten that he moved his mistress into our home while he was still married to my mother?”
Arthur waved away the reply. “Water under the bridge, Huntsley. You still have connections. Your reputation will draw people to Eden. And if both of you should invest in the idea, then people will flock here to see what would cause both of you to put money into this unique seaside resort. Once here, they would want to stay a short while, spending their money, and hence your wealth will increase.”
“I do like the sound of that,” Joshua said.
“See,” Arthur said. “Even Hawke knows a great opportunity.”
“Hawke is foolish with his funds,” Thomas said.
“I am not,” Joshua said. “I carefully weigh the risks before making a decision.”
“And you just agreed to Artie’s proposal without even seeing the town.”
“I did not. I simply said I like the sound of becoming wealthier.”
“Please,” Arthur said, looking between his two friends. “Just think about it. Enjoy yourselves. See what Eden and the surrounding communities have to offer before you make your decision.” And for good measure, he added, “And do not say you will think about it, Huntsley, for we all know that means a resounding ‘no’.”
“I will consider it. Is that better?’ Thomas sharply replied.
“Take it,” Joshua said. “The last time he said that, he ended up coming here.”
Arthur grinned. “Good. But why does he still seem vexed?”
“I am not vexed,” Thomas defended with too much hostility to suit Arthur.
“I noticed it, too,” Joshua added. “You definitely are vexed. You have been since we left Swindon.”
A deep breath left Thomas. “I need to find a wife.”
Arthur began laughing so hard he snorted. And Joshua joined him.
“I almost had forgotten about that,” Joshua said.
“It is not amusing,” Thomas growled.
“The hell it isn’t,” Artie scoffed.
Thomas shot Artie a heated look.
“Come now,” Arthur said, humor causing his voice to come out high. “You just complained about too many debs being present, and now you want to marry one? Are you daft?”
“No,” Thomas snapped.
“Then why did you say you had to marry?”
“Because if I do not, then my remaining inheritance will go to my mother.”
“You’re jesting,” Artie said, sobering.
Thomas shook his head. “I am afraid not. It was a stipulation in Father’s will. When Mother told me, I did not believe her, so I wrote to my father’s solicitor. I am waiting on his verification of her claims. If they are correct, then I have until September. If I am not married by my birthday, then my remaining inheritance will go to Mother…lands and all.”
“Blimey,” Artie said, slouching in his seat. “You mean, you must find a woman who holds your interest, woo her, and then marry her within three months?”
“Apparently,” Thomas snapped.
“Wait. What about that woman you had been courting? What was her name?” Arthur inquired.
“Iris Parker?” Joshua said, drawing his brow together.
“Yes!” Arthur exclaimed. “What about her? She seemed rather smitten with you.”
“She was or is.” Thomas sighed and brought his elbow to rest upon the edge of the carriage.
“He would be one of many she is taken with,” Joshua mumbled.
“She has not settled on one man?” Artie inquired.
Joshua shook his head. “Not exclusively. I assume she is keeping her options open for the first man to ask for her hand.” He shot a knowing look at Thomas. “And from rumor, she has her cap set for a viscount.”
“Your input is not needed, Hawke,” Thomas snapped.
“Is she not to your liking?” Artie asked.
“No, no. She would be a suitable bride.”
“So, what is the issue?”
Thomas drew his brow together in thought and looked out the carriage window. There was no reason why Iris was not suitable. Her father was Breckon Parker, Earl of Mortimer. Their family had a resounding reputation—that was until her father lost several of his holdings in Scotland on a horserace. Lady Iris was refined, eloquent, and appealing to look at with a round face surround by black curls and a youthful figure. Yet, she seemed like she was hiding something. But he kept calling upon her. The reason? Because she was entertaining in bed.
“She adds little to conversations,” Thomas decided to say.
A look of derision crossed Arthur’s face. “And you want what exactly?”
“I don’t know. Just someone who can contribute more to a conversation than a smile.”
Joshua chuckled. “Then marry a prostitute. That will give you a bit of excitement.”
“You are not helping matters any, Hawke,” Thomas bit out.
“Relax. We have nearly three months to locate you a bride. If Miss Parker is not to your liking, then start anew. Despite your family’s scandalous reputation, once the debutantes learn you are looking for a bride, they will flock to you like flies to honey. You will have your pick of all the leftover marriageable women in London.”
/> “Thanks,” Thomas acidly replied. “You are a true friend.”
Catrina placed her hands upon the windowsill of the carriage and peered out. In the distance, she could see the ocean. Excitement coursed through her veins. She had never seen the sea and was getting her first glimpse! It appeared dark in color. That is until the clouds moved, allowing the sun to shine down upon the water. The tone changed dramatically from a dark gray to a vibrant blue. Occasionally, white streaks would form but would disappear just as fast as they came. Over the water, sea birds soared, some diving into the ocean.
“I want to see,” Constance whined at Catrina’s right.
Catrina leaned back, allowing Constance to press her body over to the window.
“Why just look at it!” Constance exclaimed with delight. To no one in particular, she asked, “I have never seen anything like it. Have you?”
“No, I have not,” Catrina replied.
“Sit down, Constance,” Elena protested, pushing her sister’s backside. “Your bum is in my face.”
“Constance,” their mother scolded. “Mind your manners.”
Constance returned to her seat and stuck her tongue out at her older sister.
Elena grabbed one of the ringlets around Constance’s face and gave a hard tug.
“Ow!” Constance complained, her hand instinctively coming to her pulled lock.
“That goes for you too, Elena. I do not want either of you behaving less than ladylike while we are at Eden. So no fighting.”
“Mother,” Elena whined.
“Hush. I will hear none of it.”
“Don’t expect it to happen. If Constance and I have to share a room for a month, then we will certainly fight.”
Douglas intervened. “No, you will not.”
“Poppa!”
“Douglas spoke. “I had originally thought Beatrice and Ben,” he said, referring to Beatrice’s husband, “would be joining us. However, she was not feeling well, now that she is expecting their first child. So, we will have an extra room. I will see if Mr. Ingram can rent the extra room.”
“Let Catrina and I have it,” Elena pleaded.
“Absolutely not. I will not have any of my daughters staying unaccompanied. You will stay with your sisters. And if none of you can behave, then no one will get to participate in any of the activities.”
“Fine,” Elena huffed, crossing her arms over her chest. “I just won’t talk to her.”
Douglas signed and shook his head. He would take whatever peace he could get.
“I just don’t see why Catrina and I cannot have the extra room,” Elena pouted.
“I told you,” her father said forcefully. “I will not allow my daughters to stay alone.”
“That’s not fair!” Constance whined. “I don’t want to stay with Elena. Why can’t I have the extra room?”
“Enough,” Douglas boomed.
Constance snapped her mouth closed and gritted her teeth.
“Well, now,” Victoria said. “Let us all put on our best behavior. We have arrived.”
Catrina’s eyes were drawn to the hotel. It was not as grand as those she’d noticed in London, but it was magnificent, just the same. The wood upon the outside was graying but still appeared new. The windows sparkled like diamonds. A large veranda surrounded the building, shielding those who wished to enjoy the rocking chairs from the sun and elements.
A young boy raced forward and opened the carriage door. Douglas exited first and turned to assist the ladies.
Once upon the ground, Catrina’s eyes continued her inspection. Even the front door was glass! People could be seen milling about on the inside. Laughter drifted from indoors.
“Welcome to Eden!” a deep voice spoke. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Charles Ingram, owner of this fine establishment.”
Catrina turned to the voice. Mr. Ingram was older and quite handsome with a chiseled jawline. He possessed dark hair, the sides flecked with gray. The form-fitting navy waistcoat he wore strained over the muscles of his arms.
“Mr. Ingram,” Douglas greeted. “So good of you to meet us. I am Douglas Paxsley.”
Mr. Ingram laughed. “Mr. Paxsley. When I am not elsewhere occupied, I always make time for my guests. And should they arrive when I am otherwise engaged, I will seek them out for a welcome. This is paradise, after all, and all visitors are treated like family.”
“Well said,” Douglas said. He motioned to his right. “This is my wife, Victoria. And my daughters Elena, Constance, and Mary. Along with our guest, Miss Catrina Wilcox.”
The older man bowed. “A pleasure to make your acquaintances. Now, if you will follow me, I will see that you get settled.”
The group followed Mr. Ingram into the building. Catrina had a hard time containing her gasp of surprise. No expense was spared on the decor of the hotel. Velvet curtains, wool rugs, crystal chandeliers, and brass fixtures seemed to be everywhere she looked. She felt like a cat watching a bird as she looked left and right, inspecting the opulent structure that would be her residence for the next month.
They stopped before a desk.
“Now,” Mr. Ingram began. “I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I am afraid we have had to modify your arrangements.”
“Is that so?” Douglas asked, a slight hint of ire in his tone.
“Yes. But do not fret. You see, there was an error with the booking of your room. One of my managers accidentally booked your room to another. But I have made amends. You will be residing on the third floor in a three-room suite. It has a large parlor area, two bedrooms, and the newest trend, a separate bathing chamber. There is also an adjoining room for your married daughter. To make amends, I have adjusted the price to be the same as two standard rooms. Will that be satisfactory?”
“It will. But Beatrice could not make it this trip. She is feeling a tad under the weather. Since you have granted us with such a large suite, would it be possible to see if another can rent the adjoining room?”
“I can.”
“Wait!” Elena said, stepping forward. She was not about to spend this entire holiday in the same room with her sisters. She had the next several months to do that.
“Keep the room. Allow Catrina and me to stay there.”
“Elena,” Douglas protested.
“Please, Poppa. You know if I stay with Constance and Mary, we will end up fighting.”
“Elena.”
“And do it for Catrina,” Elena blurted out. She had to come up with an excuse to not stay with her younger sisters. She knew it was not ideal to play upon Catrina’s unfortunate fate, but it was necessary. “Catrina is to marry when we return. To a man whom her brother will choose. Without her having even met the man. Allow us a bit of time together before she is married. Please.”
A deep breath left Douglas as he nodded. “Very well.”
Elena smiled, “Thank you, Father.”
“Excellent!” Mr. Ingram said. “Now, I will allow Mr. Thompson to show you to your rooms.” The hotel owner snapped his fingers, and a young man around Catrina’s age came forward.
Mr. Thompson was thin with brown hair and matching eyes. Yet he was handsome. Catrina and Elena both smiled, and a blush crept up the young man’s face.
“Take the Paxsleys’ belongings upstairs. Rooms three hundred twelve and three hundred ten.”
“Thank you, Mr. Adkins,” Mrs. Douglas said.
“My pleasure, Mrs. Paxsley.” The charming hotel owner smiled once more and gave a polite nod of his head. “If you should need anything during your stay, do not hesitate to ask. Now, go rest yourselves. The maids will be up posthaste to help you unpack, and then feel free to wander the grounds or explore the beach. You are at Eden. Enjoy!”
Chapter Six
Catrina and Elena giggled as they unpacked their belongings.
“I do say, Elle, I cannot believe you managed to persuade your father to let us have our own room!” Catrina removed a pink and white dress from her trunk, holding it up
in front of her for inspection.
“I know!” Elena said in agreement. “I thought he would deny me the request.”
Catrina lowered the dress and gave a heated look to her friend. “You didn’t have to use my impending nuptials as the reason.”
“Oh, Cat! I had to. If I hadn’t, Father would have never agreed. Then you would have been placed in a miserable situation. In a room with Constance and Mary.” Elena snarled her nose. “They are my sisters, and I love them dearly, yet I cannot tolerate them.”
Catrina snorted as she carried the dress over to the wardrobe. “I will trade you one toad of a brother for your two intolerable sisters.”
Elena snorted and laughed. “I think I would get the short end of the bargain.”
Catrina hung her dress up. “Oh, I do not know. I believe your father would scare my brother so that he would die. Then you would be without a brute of a sibling.”
“Do you truly think he will marry you off? I mean, you are his sister.”
“You mean his ward. He cares more for his horse than me. All he cares about is my money. If I did not have an inheritance, I truly believe he would cast me out.”
“You don’t mean that? Do you really think he would?” Elena asked, removing a pair of stockings from her trunk.
“Have you not listened to the stories I told you about him? He blames me for our parents' death.”
“You told me that, and it is dreadful! You had nothing to do with it. It was not your fault that the driver lost control of the carriage.”
“The driver,” Catrina hissed. “The incorrigible Mr. Wilkerson. The man is a wastrel and drunkard. I do not have proof, but I think he was well into his cups the night Momma and Poppa were killed. I believe it was his fault.”
“Does your brother have the same thinking?”
“He doesn’t care. All he worries about is money.” Sadness pulled at Catrina’s eyes. “He didn’t even cry when he came home. He went to their gravesite and stood there, glowering at the headstone. No tears. No emotion other than anger. He then turned to me and told me their death was my fault. That I should have died so that they could have lived.”
Elena dropped her stockings back into the trunk and approached Catrina. She placed a comforting hand upon Catrina’s shoulder.