Undone by His Kiss

by Anabelle Bryant

  “Please don’t give it another thought. I’ve come to visit the children as always, although it would appear there will be a new addition in the group.” She turned a gentle smile toward the lad pressed into her side.

  “He’ll need a bath and fresh clothing. You shouldn’t be so near until we’ve determined he’s healthy.” The doctor went to one knee, but the child pressed harder into Emily’s side. Was it her imagination or could she feel him trembling through the layers of her walking dress?

  The doctor nodded toward the nurse and she took the initiative with a broad smile. “Come now, what’s your name? Wouldn’t you like a hot bath?”

  The questions prompted the child to withdraw further and Emily’s heart ached at the atrocities he might have endured living near the river, under a bridge or perhaps, sleeping on the cold damp ground night after night. How deep were his scars that he’d not recognize genuine kindness and shun the basic essentials of cleanliness and warm clothing?

  She stared at the top of his filthy blond head, the color all but obscured. He remained mute, silenced by fear or other inhibitions. Emily twisted to free her skirts and knelt beside the nurse to clasp the lad’s hands tightly within her own. “I have more treats in my basket. Not just biscuits, but small toys as well. If you’ll go with the kind nurse, you’ll be clean and ready for supper like all the other children who will fast become your friends.”

  A breach in wariness softened the worry etched in his brow. He glanced to the nurse who’d stepped away and then returned his gaze to Emily, the cynical sideways glance exposing suspicion beyond his tender years. A moment passed before he shoved his fingers into his left pocket, his forehead puckered with determination.

  Emily watched as his free hand worked to retrieve something from his torn trousers, for surely his stance and perseverance proved it as important.

  At last, when she worried Dr. Alastar would show no more patience, the lad accomplished his goal and wriggling a piece of jewelry from the assorted trinkets dragged from his pocket in a tangled clump, treasures he’d salvaged from the perils of the Thames. He gathered the silver chain together and pressed it into her palm.

  Startled, Emily glanced from bracelet to child, before acknowledging his trust with a grateful smile. “How delightful. Thank you ever so much. I will treasure this always.”

  With her words, all apprehension faded. The lad left without a squeak of protest and Emily stared after him, the gift safe in her palm and the hope for another child’s future happiness warm in her soul.

  Across the city, Jasper stole a glance out the window as Penwick exited his carriage. A skip of anticipation, inspired by his desire to succeed, beat a cadence in rhythm to the earl’s walking stick against the slates. Sleep had eluded him last night. Was the thief of his respite eagerness for business or the recurring image of Miss Shaw’s stunning blue eyes? He did not know. Amusement dared distract as memories of the lady’s indignation renewed, but he suppressed the daydream. Now was not the time for fanciful notions. This morning he hoped to secure his first client and initiate an endeavor toward a lucrative, respected future; thus proving his worth to his overbearing brother.

  His brother.

  Jasper considered Dashwood’s imminent return. The wedding trip, initially planned for one month’s time, had already extended a week overlong. How he’d like to secure an account or two before Dash stormed into London, newly married and forever condescending.

  Penwick entered and with tempered enthusiasm Jasper rounded the desk to greet the earl. He’d hardly completed niceties before Randolph rushed through the door.

  “Excellent. Excellent timing.” Randolph’s jovial announcement brought pause. “I wouldn’t want to miss this appointment.” He angled a pointed glare at Penwick, then lower to the earl’s cravat and Randolph’s eyes flared.

  They all seated before Jasper’s desk, but instead of aiming attention to Nasmyth’s invention, the conversation swiftly turned to Penwick’s neckcloth.

  “Fine linen, Penwick. May I inquire of the design?” Randolph leaned forward with pointed interest.

  “My valet is a master with the Osbaldeston knot.” Penwick twisted from left to right to offer a better view of the complicated arrangement. “He outdid himself this morning.”

  “Indeed.” Randolph leaned closer still, his eyes narrowed. “Extraordinary crispness in each complicated crease and fold.”

  Beaufort withdrew, apparently satisfied, and Jasper suppressed the desire to roll his eyes. “Gentlemen, shall we begin?” He smoothed the papers on the desk blotter and looked up with expectation.

  “Of course, although I should mention,” Beaufort eyed Penwick’s assemble, “you’ll be the name on every tongue if you flaunt your valet’s talents at any lively London reverie.”

  “That’s a timely observation as I intend to frequent as many gatherings as possible during my short stay in town. I’m trying to locate a dear friend. Perhaps you might suggest a social where the popular ton will be in attendance.” Penwick appeared most serious.

  Beaufort let out a loud guffaw, his eyes shooting to Jasper. “The perfect assignment, wouldn’t you agree, Jasper?”

  Jasper who’d begun to tap his fingernails against the paperwork in exasperated patience forced a smile that both men interpreted as agreement. Taking advantage of the conversational lull, he cleared his throat, reassembled the information on the blotter and launched into a fast, furious description of the steam hammer. Neither man appeared nonplussed and after a few minutes of factual reiteration of financial benefits for investment, Penwick appeared satisfied. He questioned the durativity of the invention, as well as its construction and adaptability and Jasper, due to his diligence, answered each question with thoughtful information. Before long, a rush of accomplishment and relief took control as Penwick signaled his commitment to invest in the proposal. A casual ease returned to their appointment.

  “Perhaps you’d like to join us later this evening. We’ve plans to meet up with Viscount Kellaway. He’s a likeable sort who knows everyone worth knowing. I doubt Kell would mind an addition to the crowd.” Social connections through Penwick or otherwise could only serve Jasper’s business well.

  “Thank you. I appreciate your kindness.” Penwick stood and retrieved his walking stick before the three men completed the meeting with a firm handshake and a commitment to meet later that evening. By no means did Kellaway, a sworn lothario and bachelor, present the entré into polite society Penwick desired, but the association was one which could lead to invitations within the ton. Kellaway knew everyone and everything that happened in the city.

  Chapter 6

  Emily returned from the hospital to find her mother writing a letter in the drawing room, her attention solely focused on the foolscap atop the desk. Not wishing to startle her, Emily quietly entered; a whisper of sadness accompanying the scene to winnow into her heart and remind things would never be as they once were. If only her mother could accept the circumstances and come to terms with their situation.

  Emily strove to be a good daughter. She loved her mother dearly and empathized with her suffering, but it was that same heartbreak which prompted her to organize the league and work toward independence. No woman should be solely dependent on a man; no female made to feel inferior. In truth, her mother’s despair sparked the league’s formation, but the organization was fueled by Emily’s determination to reject how her mother appeared, broken and lonely. Circumstances stole her mother’s spirit and in turn, her future, all because she believed herself incomplete now.

  “Emily, you’re home.” Her mother rose from the desk, a sealed paper in hand. “Please summon Mary. I need this letter posted immediately.”

  Emily fought against the hollow sadness of her mother’s expectant expression. “Another letter?”

  “Yes. I always write, dear, you know that. Every day I write to your father.”

  A swath of uncomfortable emotion crowded Emily’s heart and she inhaled fully, as if sh
e couldn’t gather the air needed to breathe. Mary entered and with a glance over her shoulder, Emily met the eyes of the housekeeper in meaningful communication. “Mother wishes to post another letter.” An anxious pause followed before Mary nodded and accepted the mail.

  “I’ll see to it right away then.” The housekeeper bustled from the room as if her heels were afire.

  “How was the hospital? Were the children happy to see you?”

  Startled by her mother’s clarity, Emily found a gentle smile and sat on the chaise, patting the seat beside her. “Come here and I’ll tell you about my visit. I made a new friend today and he gave me a gift. I’d like to show it to you.”

  “A gentleman? A handsome lord?” Her mother’s smile extended to her eyes, a giddy childlike note riddling her questions. “This is wonderful news. Tell me all.”

  “Not a lord, but handsome nonetheless.” Emily clasped her mother’s hand now that she’d settled at her side. “And very young.”

  “Age should not deter true love. Your father was fifteen years older than me and that difference never interfered with our affection,” Bianca said with finality.

  Emily swallowed past the lump in her throat and strove to resurrect a cheerful tone. “My friend is perhaps seven or eight years old, our age difference too vast.”

  “Oh, you had me convinced you’d met a suitor.” Her voice dropped as though she’d arrived at a disappointing conclusion.

  Her mother’s forlorn reply tugged at Emily’s resolve. She didn’t wish to be a disappointment, but her heart remained conflicted when it came to matters of relationships and marriage; the joy of one seemingly causing the crisis of the other. Despite her mother’s misconception, Emily wished to be loved and cherished, but at what cost? And on what terms?

  While she deliberated every emotion with extreme care, her mother’s despondency evolved into a daily struggle. Still one condition shouldn’t eradicate the other. Even the ladies of the league held a secret desire to be courted and Emily had dutifully ignored discussing relationships deferring to every aspect of independence imaginable. Perhaps, she’d wronged her friends. She’d need to be more open-minded when it came to her opinion of their future. Her intractable resolution, to remain happily unattached, could not impinge on the choices of others. The league should serve to suggest options, choices for a future not commanded by the social doctrine.

  Emily assessed her mother’s dejected expression. Her solemn contemplation confirmed their discussion would go no further. The two sat in companionable silence until Mary entered with Portia Edmonstone by her side.

  “Portia?” Emily rose to approach her friend, surprise and puzzlement causing her quick reaction. “The league doesn’t meet on Wednesdays. Is everything all right?”

  “Yes, of course. I’ve a little matter to discuss and hoped you’d spare a few minutes for tea and conversation.” Portia’s usual sagacious demeanor seemed absent, her eyes expressing a different message than her words.

  “I’ll leave the two of you. I have matters to attend.”

  Emily’s eyes followed her mother’s brisk retreat, uncertainty causing new worry to blossom.

  “Has she gotten any better?” Portia whispered, though they stood alone in the room.

  “I’m afraid not.” Emily motioned her friend closer as they moved to sit near the fire.

  “What a silly expression. You are fearless, afraid of no one or no thing.” Portia offered a smile of reassurance. “I’m sure your mother will improve in time. My aunt suffered a similar depression after my uncle passed. It was nearly a year before she showed any emotion other than sadness.”

  “Maybe.” Doubt forced the word out in a mutter. “I wish she would accept Father is gone. That way she could plan for a happier future. It’s been over two years and she seems to get worse by the week. And it’s not just sadness or despondency.”

  “I daresay her heartache is palpable.” Portia patted Emily’s hand in comfort. “She looks so lost at times, but then on the occasion she appears almost hopeful, as if she believes your father will return.”

  “I know. Some days she’s right as rain, her demeanor cheerful. The most troubling aspect of her condition is found in its unpredictability. It causes me grave concern.”

  Portia was her closest friend, yet Emily had never confided the particulars involving her parents. It didn’t seem appropriate, nor would she want the circumstances repeated to any person, ever. Not that she didn’t trust Portia. She was the closest Emily had to a sister. Yet secrets sometimes had a way of finding a path to daylight when they were best left hidden in a dark drawer. In that, Emily reserved her deepest regret and emotion for evening, when she snuffed the candles in her bedchamber and wept herself to sleep.

  “Enough of my tale of woe.” Emily laughed away the truth in her statement. “What brings you to visit? It must be a matter of great importance. I can see it in your eyes no matter you are trying your best to conceal the truth of it.”

  “This evening, the Bandlewits are hosting a gathering.”

  “Yes?” Emily nodded to Mary who appeared at the door with a tea tray. The room fell silent as refreshments were served. In fluid habit, Emily accepted the letter Mary offered, slipping it into her gown pocket without a comment or remark for Portia’s behalf. Once the housekeeper left, their conversation resumed.

  “My mother insists I attend. Apparently she’s become fast friends with Lady Bandlewit and the two have contrived to match me with the eldest son, Norris. I’ve known about this conspiracy for two days and I’m sure I’ve lost weight from my lack of appetite…or will to live. I couldn’t fathom becoming a Bandlewit.”

  “It does present an unexpected conundrum. Have you expressed your feelings to your mother?” Emily knew how deeply Portia wished to achieve her aspiration. The situation was difficult enough without another layer of complication.

  “My mother and father believe my vision to travel the world is a ridiculous and rebellious dream. Their answer is to see me married and under my husband’s thumb so he can be the one who will squash ambition out of me before I raise our brood of Bandlewits.”

  The subject was serious but Emily couldn’t help it, she laughed out loud. “Oh when you say it that way, it does sound dire.”

  The two shared a bout of the giggles despite a troubled expression marred Portia’s delicate features soon after.

  “So, as a sort of compromise, I pleaded to at least bring a friend to this evening’s débâcle and my mother relented. Now if you’ll also agree, perhaps we can concoct some subterfuge to keep Norris at bay, or dissuade him altogether. I don’t mind being rejected. I’d actually prefer it. If society perceived me as a pariah, once I become of a suitable age, I may travel the globe without a care for rumors, reputation or societal status.”

  Portia had risen during her little speech and stood near the mantle, her boots firmly planted, hands on her hips. Her stance represented defiance and confidence. Emily’s heart swelled with pride.

  “Of course I will accompany you. I won’t allow anyone to run ripshod over your dreams.”

  “I knew you would agree.” Portia leaned down to embrace Emily. “You really are the truest friend.”

  If only I could be the truest daughter. There was no need to voice the words, but they echoed in her mind nonetheless.

  Chapter 7

  Jasper, in his evening’s finest, and Randolph, wearing his interpretation of fashion, collected Penwick at nine sharp and proceeded to Kellaway’s town house on George Street in Hanover Square. They arrived at the same time Kell’s elegant barouche pulled to the curb.

  “There’s no reason for all of us to climb out.” Jasper took control. “I’ll speak to Kell concerning the anticipated entertainment. It appears he’s only arriving when we’d arranged to be already on our way.” Not waiting for either friend to reply, he hopped from the carriage and shadowed the footman who’d opened Kellaway’s coach and extended the steps. Taken aback, Jasper watched as two females
with scandalously low necklines exited. He almost swallowed his tongue when a feminine giggle echoed from the confines of the carriage and Kell stepped out. Apparently, the coach wasn’t emptied yet.

  “Have plans changed?” Keen to his perspicuity, Jasper waited on his friend’s reply.

  “Aah, yes. I won’t be joining you this evening. Sorry about the alterations, but other distractions have taken precedence.” Kellaway glanced into the carriage and smiled. The coo of a besotted female followed although she had yet to materialize.

  Jasper slue his eyes from one beautiful companion to the other and then warranted a glance at the carriage, now silent. “Expecting a few more gentlemen this evening?” His voice cracked on the question.

  “Not at all.” Kell’s reply was thrown over his shoulder, his arms full of female on either side as he climbed the front steps. “I’ll be in touch.”

  The ladies purred with this pronouncement.

  Refusing to feel the fool, Jasper reclaimed his carriage and instructed the driver to an address in Mayfair. He’d ensure Penwick had an enjoyable evening, despite the only ready invitation he’d received was to the Bandlewits’ house party and that began hours ago.

  “Where’s Kell? Isn’t he coming?” Randolph leaned forward in an attempt to peer out the window before the carriage gained speed.

  “Not with us he isn’t.” Jasper refrained from saying more.

  Emily touched a finger to each charm on the silver bracelet gifted to her by the newly arrived orphan at the Foundling Hospital. Mary had cleaned it in a hot wash of vinegar and salt and now the once tarnished and corroded chain shone with brilliance. It was a curious piece, each charm different, but equally beautiful. The owner who’d dropped it must regret its loss indeed.

  She gathered the bracelet and looped it around her wrist, the perfect addition to the periwinkle silk gown she’d donned for this evening’s gathering. Not one to squander money on frivolous purchases, she possessed a few extravagant fashions for the rare occasion when she ventured out; this selection one of them. Some intuitive notion urged she wear her best this evening. Perhaps the dull ache of her mother’s distress motivated she’d disguise heartache with ribbons and silk. If society served any meaningful purpose, distraction proved prime.