Sea of Fire

  “This is such a surprise,” Elizabeth said. She prayed Christian would stay out of sight. “Hannah will be sorry she missed you. She’s been asking me to invite you over.”

  “How sweet.” Charlotte surveyed what she could see from the entryway. “So you are alone?”

  “Aye.”

  “That’s marvelous. All the better to speak openly. Where shall we sit?” Charlotte asked, but headed to the parlor before Elizabeth could reply.

  “Wait,” Elizabeth said. “Let’s have some refreshments in the kitchen.”

  Charlotte glanced at her with an offended expression on her face which quickly turned to a smile. Her blue eyes twinkled. She giggled, and said, “You’re such a tease. I almost took you seriously.”

  To Elizabeth’s horror, Charlotte marched into the parlor and took a seat on one of the wing chairs opposite the sofa—the very sofa Elizabeth last saw Christian hide behind.

  “Sit,” Charlotte ordered her. “I don’t need anything to drink. I’m fine. I want to talk.” She set her satchel on the floor beside her and made herself comfortable in the chair as though she planned to stay a while.

  Elizabeth sat next to her in the other wing chair, hoping that she’d keep Charlotte’s attention from the sofa. How was she going to change the topic from Christian, though? For sure, she’d have to be careful with her answers, but it was Charlotte’s questions that concerned her more.

  “Tell me,” Charlotte urged. “Did you have a pleasant evening?”

  “The music was lovely, as usual,” Elizabeth answered. “How is Walter feeling?”

  “Much better. Thank you.” Charlotte held eye contact with her. “You know I’m not talking about music. What did you think about Christian?”

  Had Christian not been in the same room, she might have seriously questioned her feelings about the man, but knowing he’d hear every word of her reply, she answered guardedly, yet honestly, “He was not what I expected.”

  “I, too, was surprised. Walter outdid himself. Isn’t he simply delicious-looking,” Charlotte’s face momentarily expressed blissfulness.

  Christian was indeed far too charming and handsome for his own good, but she’d never openly admit it, especially under the circumstances. “That’s not what I meant. I mistook your father’s solicitor, thinking you had taken our conversation to heart concerning potential gentlemen for the eve.”

  “It was an understandable mistake,” Charlotte said, and smiled. “Did you not like Christian? Was he not a gentleman after he dropped me off at home?”

  It was obvious this conversation was not going to change until she revealed something Charlotte wanted to hear. “Nothing extraordinary happened.” Nothing except his kiss and ... “I don’t know him well enough to say I like him.”

  “Does this mean you’ll see him again?” Charlotte anxiously asked.

  Elizabeth wanted to say, not even if she were tortured, but it would hurt Charlotte’s feelings. It would also be a lie. Unfortunately, the man appealed to her. She doubted it would affect Christian either way. “What will be, will be.”

  “What’s the matter with you? You’re so tight-lipped. Are you upset with me for some reason?”

  “Nay. Of course not. ‘Tis just I’ve got naught to say. Give it some time.”

  “I suppose you’re right,” Charlotte said, and sighed. “There’s something else I wanted to ask you.”

  A twinkle appeared in Charlotte’s eyes. No doubt the question was about her wedding plans. Elizabeth gave her friend her full attention, relieved to be changing the subject. “What is it?”

  “Walter and I came close to making love on two occasions. Have you ever wondered what it was like to do the deed?”

  “Charlotte! You mustn’t speak of such.”

  “Why not? Whatever is the matter with you? You act like we’ve never discussed men and such before.”

  If Elizabeth could have dissolved in thin air, she would have at that moment. How would she ever face the man behind the sofa with a shred of dignity? Still, Charlotte continued.

  “I can’t wait until Walter and I are married, and we can legally lie naked in each other’s arms.” A dreamy expression spread over her face.

  Horror of horrors, Elizabeth silently cursed, assuring herself that at last the conversation had reached its pinnacle and worst.

  Charlotte smiled at Elizabeth and said, “Christian is so attractive. Can you imagine doing the deed with him?”

  “Charlotte stop!”

  “Forgive me, Elizabeth, but don’t such wonderings ever cross your mind, or is it just me? When I first met Walter, I was thinking of potentially doing the deed with him. Is something wrong with me?”

  Elizabeth sat and stared at Charlotte. Why not find a pistol and ask the woman to simply shoot her and end this misery? Yet, it wasn’t Charlotte’s fault. How was she to know Christian was in the room? Elizabeth also sensed a seriousness to her friend’s question, and replied, “Nay, Charlotte. There’s naught wrong with you except for love, and you’re about to be wed.”

  “I’m so thrilled,” Charlotte said.

  “And, I’m happy for you.” Elizabeth stood. Any other time she would have enjoyed their discussion about the opposite gender. Now, she wished Charlotte would leave. “I have to run some errands. You can imagine how it is with Hannah gone.”

  Charlotte stood. “Will she be away long?”

  “I can’t say for sure. Her sister is ill.”

  “Please give her my best,” Charlotte said. “Well, I’ll be on my way then. Do come in a few days to practice and chat some more.”

  Elizabeth saw her to the door. “I will soon. Promise.”

  “Bye-bye.” Charlotte waved and headed to her carriage and driver who waited.

  “Bye-bye,” Elizabeth said and closed the door.

  Barely had she a chance to gain her composure to face Christian when he sauntered into the entryway, wearing a grin from ear to ear.

  He leaned against the banister with his arms crossed. At last he spoke. “Never have I been so entertained. Tell me—you never answered Charlotte—have you ever imagined doing the deed with me?”

  Chapter Fifteen

  “If you say one more word, I’ll,” she glanced around the entryway and removed one of her father’s walking sticks from the stand. “I’ll stab you with this.”

  Christian laughed aloud and held his palms up, feigning fear of her. “I’ll behave, though to someone who assisted you with your overindulgence problem, you’re not being very cordial. I take it the effects of last night have subsided and you’re feeling better.”

  She set the walking stick back in place. With all the activities of the morning, she had forgotten how ill she had been earlier. “My headache is slight and my stomach is no longer queasy. In fact, I’m hungry. Thank you for your assistance.”

  “If you like, we can stop and dine before we secure the items Roderick requested of you.”

  “Please,” she said.

  “I’ll change into my shirt and waistcoat and be right down.”

  It wasn’t until Christian was halfway up the stairs that she realized she needed her cloak and reticule from her bedchamber and followed him. She stopped in midstride when he turned to face her.

  “Don’t you be looking at my bottom,” he said.

  She sensed her own look of astonishment on her face. He was incorrigible and obviously not about to forget any time soon her conversation with Charlotte. If she was going to put an end to this behavior or at least temper it, she’d have to give him as good as he gave. “ ‘Tis hard to miss a bucket buttocks the size of yours when it practically takes up the entire width of the staircase.”

  He now stared at her with a shocked expression and next pouted. He looked over his shoulder to study his bottom. “I’ve been told many things, but never that I have a fat arse.”

  She placed one hand on the railing. “Will you kindly ascend the staircase, so we may prepare to leave?”

  “Only if yo
u apologize.”

  “Christian,” she said through gritted teeth.

  “All right. I accept that and forgive you.” He turned. He took the steps two at a time until he reached the landing and disappeared into her father’s bedchamber.

  Perhaps if she ignored him, he’d go away. Impossible. Even if he wasn’t Adam’s brother or involved in this unfortunate mess with her father, his glowing amber eyes and handsomeness alone would be difficult to ignore. It was wise that she suggested he not kiss her again for she feared with each kiss she’d want only more of the same. She was strong, but not a citadel, especially when the man had a tendency to charm her at the most unexpected times. Think about food, she encouraged herself. It was a lot safer.

  She gathered her reticule and cloak. Christian waited for her at the landing. He allowed her to precede him down the steps.

  When they reached the bottom of the stairs, he helped her with her cloak and said, “With it being midday, would you prefer to make your purchases tomorrow?”

  “Nay. Let’s be done with it.”

  An hour later, after they caught a quick repast at the William Bell Coffeehouse, they walked down the street to the sign of the World of Delft—a shop whose sole pride was the tin-glazed ware with its blue painted landscapes. Periodically, the sun peeked through a partly cloudy sky to further warm the already mild day. Elizabeth had considered telling Christian she’d like to return home, as she was full and feeling sleepy, but knew tomorrow she’d not want to shop for Roderick either. Better to get it over with.

  They stopped before the World of Delft shop window and she stared inside. “Since we don’t have to concern ourselves about Roderick’s spurious coins when we make our purchases, I’ll choose six decorative platters, and we’ll be finished,” she suggested.

  Christian escorted her into the shop where they were greeted by the proprietor. Elizabeth wasted no additional time on pleasantries. “I’d like two of each of these,” she told the man and pointed out three different-sized platters in varied landscapes.”

  The proprietor wrapped the pieces. Christian paid him, and they each took a bundle.

  “Where would you like to go now?” Christian asked.

  “Let’s stop at the chemist at the end of the street. I’ll obtain several different powders and medicines to cure headaches, stomachaches, and the like. It would be an extra convenience for patrons who come into Roderick’s shop.”

  “The man doesn’t deserve your thoughtfulness.”

  Elizabeth smiled and said, “We want to keep Roderick happy.”

  “Aye. We do,” Christian agreed.

  They leisurely strolled the short distance to the chemist. As with her previous purchase, she randomly chose a half-dozen different small bottles for a number of assorted ailments. A few minutes later, they left the chemist.

  “Here,” Christian held out his hand. “Give me the package. I’ll carry it.”

  “Thank you, but it’s not heavy. The clerk wrapped the bottles snugly and tied the package to this other. I can handle it, truly. Besides, you’re already carrying one yourself.”

  “As you wish,” he said and shrugged.

  “A few more trinkets, as Roderick put it, and we’ll be done,” she replied.

  “Where would you like to get these items?” Christian asked.

  “The sign of the Purple Pigeon. ‘Tis a small candle shop, but carries other bric-a-brac. I’ll purchase some candles for Roderick to sell with his silver candlesticks and quickly grab whatever else catches my eye.”

  “Do we need to ride?”

  “Nay. You can see the sign from here.”

  He squinted down the street. “Let’s be off then.”

  The tiny shop of the Purple Pigeon swarmed with potential buyers. It was apparent it would take more time to purchase something here.

  Christian reached into his pocket and handed her enough coins to make a purchase. “I’m getting weary of all this. I spotted a spirits shop about mid-block on the opposite side of the street. Meet me there.”

  She nodded. Seconds later, he fled the crowded shop. About fifteen minutes passed before she was at last waited upon and made her selections. As the items were being wrapped, she considered what might have happened had she used the bad coins. What if the clerk in the shop had noticed them and publicly declared them to be counterfeit? With so many people around, any number could be called out as witnesses. She shuddered. Thank God Christian had come along when he had.

  “Come again.” The clerk handed her the parcels.

  “Thank you,” she said and stepped outside. The weather remained fair, which she appreciated, as the month of March was unpredictable. One day promised the hope of spring while the next only served as a reminder that it was still winter and could snow.

  She stared down the street until she located the sign of the spirits shop. Unless that particular establishment was overflowing with patrons, Christian should have had enough time to browse and make any purchases. She strolled to the shop and peered inside. He conversed with a gentleman whose back faced her. With her own arms full of purchases, she decided to wait outside rather than try to juggle her goods to get the door. She turned her sights to the people and activity along the street.

  When a few minutes passed and Christian still had not exited, she peeked through the window again. He was nowhere to be seen—at least not from her position. Now, she adjusted her packages, grabbed the door handle and stepped within the spirits shop. A few moments later, she heard laughter. The curtain to a back room swished aside and the proprietor, Christian, and to her surprise, Roderick, shuffled through it as if the three had known each other for years.

  “Why, Elizabeth, whatever are you doing here? I didn’t realize you were interested in spirits,” Roderick greeted her. Before she could respond, he added for Christian’s and the shop owner’s sake, “Elizabeth is a close friend of mine.” She gave a weak smile, and said, “I stopped in here to browse for a friend.”

  He clapped his hands in delight, assuming instantly that he was the person she spoke about and the items she carried were what he had requested. “I don’t see how you’ll manage by yourself. I’ll see you home,” he decided.

  “Truly. I can handle these items. I’ve carried much more before. Besides, I’ll hail a ride.” She looked directly at Roderick, afraid to chance a glance at Christian and give away their acquaintance.

  “I insist.” Roderick helped himself to several of her parcels, and started for the door. She had no choice but to follow. With Roderick’s back to her, she peeked up at Christian.

  He failed to make eye contact. It was as if he didn’t notice her. He spoke to Roderick, “I’ll come by as you suggested.”

  “I look forward to it,” Roderick answered. He held the door for her. She passed through it with a foreboding.

  Was it a coincidence that Roderick happened to be in the spirits shop the same time as Christian? What had transpired behind the curtain that caused the three of them to carry on so amiably? Though she had questioned Christian’s involvement with her father’s abduction, all conclusions suggested he was as much in the dark as she was. Still, Christian gave her no indication he was on her side right now when she needed the reassurance. Instead, he and Roderick acted like they’d known each other and planned to meet. For what purpose? What if Roderick had solicited Christian to test her loyalty? For the first time, she truly feared for her father’s safety.

  * * * *

  Elizabeth sat in the work area in Roderick’s silversmith shop. “I purchased the items you requested. I have some goblets at home that I will bring you next time. Now will you please tell me how my father fares.”

  “As far as I know, alive and well.” Roderick answered. He examined the contents of the packages. His large blue eyes twinkled and his face lit up like that of a child who had received a plaything.

  “I want to meet with Adam. I want proof my father is well.” She was in no position to make demands, but she hoped the pu
rchases she had secured would make him more agreeable.

  “I’ll do what I can for you.” He held up one of the bottles of medicine, set it down and examined one of the platters. “Did no one question the coins? You had no problems?”

  If she admitted to no difficulties, he would know she was lying. “All commented that the coins’ appearance was odd, but I assured them I had just come from the bank. I guess I look like I have an honest face.”

  “That you do, sweet Elizabeth. Which brings me to our next task.”

  “When will you find out about my father?”

  “You’re becoming tiresome. Soon.” He sat down across from her just like they sat the first time she learned he was counterfeiting. “I want you to draw another coin.”

  “What’s wrong with the one I already drew you?”

  Roderick smiled. “This isn’t for us. Another source.”

  Could the person be Christian? “Who?” she asked before she realized she had no business doing so. She braced herself for his rebuff.

  Yet, he mildly answered, “That is none of your concern.”

  She had to know, even if it meant inciting his ire. “I simply was curious and wondered if it was the man you were with in the spirits shop today.”

  “I’m not going to divulge such information, Elizabeth.”

  Blast, she thought. “When does this person need this done?”

  “The gent is in a hurry. Tonight.”

  “Tonight? Nay, Roderick. Please. I’m too exhausted. I wouldn’t perform well.”

  “All right. You have had a busy day. You were to have the purchases to me by tomorrow. Since it was my good fortune to meet you and receive them early, we’ll plan on tomorrow eve.”

  “Where?”

  “Come to Liffey Supply where you worked on the pattern for the other coin. Say midnight.”

  “Must it be so late?” she asked. “ ‘Tis hard traveling, and ...”

  “No one is about at that hour. The building is closed to business. Be there.”

  “Aye.” She stood, knowing she could push him no further, and left.