h, the beautiful Lady Emma.” Emma’s heart skipped a little as the Earl of Thornbridge approached. He bowed, and then thereafter extended his hand towards her. “It is our dance, is it not?”
“You are quite correct, Lord Thornbridge.” Her hand went to his arm and a thrill of excitement ran from her fingers directly to her heart.
Lord Thornbridge was one of the most eligible gentlemen of both this Season and the last. He was broad-shouldered, tall, and with a set of fine features the attention of which every young lady in all of England wished to possess for herself. Having been introduced in the little Season, when the weather had been wet and wild, Emma had found herself with a growing eagerness for Lord Thornbridge’s company – which continued now in the Spring Season. It was a wonder to her that he was not yet betrothed, but perhaps he was not a gentleman eager to rush into matrimony. After all, he could have any young lady that he wished on his arm, but, as yet, he had never given his particular attentions to any one young lady – even going so far as to never dance with the same young lady twice in an evening.
Andyet Ihope that Imight be the one with whom he does so. Stepping out with him to the dance floor, Emma became slowly aware of the many eyes which were fixed upon her. Some, such as Lord and Lady Stanbury – her mother and father – would be very
pleased to watch their daughter dance with such a fellow. Others, however, might struggle with envy while still others might watch her with narrowed eyes, willing her to stumble or embarrass herself in some other way. Reminding herself only to concentrate on the steps of the dance and not what others thought of her, Emma lifted her chin slightly and smiled.
“Might I say that you look very lovely indeed this evening, Lady Emma.”
“You are very kind, Lord Thornbridge,” she replied, her heart beating a little more quickly. “You are, of course, quite handsome also.”
Smiling at him, Emma ignored the frantic beating of her heart. She was not special, nor singled out simply because he had said such things to her. Whoever he danced with next would, no doubt, receive the same compliments as she.
The dance began. Emma took every step with care and precision, whilst maintaining a pleasant expression, with her lips curved into a delicate smile. Lord Thornbridge did not make much conversation, but instead simply danced with her, continuing to watch her. To her eyes, his expression was a little thoughtful, as if he were uncertain over some, as yet unspoken, matter.
“You are enjoying the Season thus far, my Lord?” Emma asked quickly, thinking that she ought to make some attempt at conversation. It was expected, of course, but he did not appear to have any eagerness for speaking with her. Perhaps he was a gentleman of few words, she considered, for as yet she did not know his character very well at all.
“I always enjoy the Seasons,” he told her with a smile. “That is why you will find me here in London during the drabbest and wettest months of the year also, for I am very much drawn towards good company – and the Season offers plenty of that!”
Smiling quietly, she nodded and then turned away as the dance required. For a moment, she wondered what Lord Thornbridge’s character was like. She was unaware of any whispers about him being a rogue or some such dreadful thing. But then again, he might hide a great many things from the prying eyes of society. When he
spoke of enjoying good company, was it particular ladies that he considered? Particular interactions? Or was it merely that he delighted in speaking with old acquaintances and making new ones?
“And what of you, Lady Emma?” Lord Thornbridge’s eyes glinted with interest as he smiled back at her. “I would presume that a young lady such as yourself would always enjoy the London Season. Might I be mistaken in that assumption?”
She shook her head.
“No, Lord Thornbridge. You are correct to state such a thing, although this is, however, my second Season. And in that regard, I find my parents a little less lackadaisical than they were last Season!”
For whatever reason, this made him chuckle, and Emma found herself smiling back at him, a little relieved that something she had said had brought a touch of mirth.
“That is something which I believe that most gentlemen shall never understand: the pressures on a young lady of the ton,who is required to make a suitable match – and sometimes with a great deal of haste, I might add!”
“I count myself grateful to not be in any such state of eagerness,” she answered quickly, not wishing him to think that she was required to marry in haste for any reason. “What I mean to say is that last Season, I was very much able to enjoy every moment without thinking about what was required of me. Now, however, my parents are a little more inclined towards reminding me of what is expected!” Daring to be bold, she took in a breath. “I fear you may have bolstered their hopes a little, Lord Thornbridge, in stepping out to dance with me.”
The music came to a close before Lord Thornbridge had the opportunity to form a reply, and Emma found herself almost grateful that he had not been required to do so. She dropped into a perfect curtsey as he bowed, relieved to be at the end of their dance. It had been a rather anxious few minutes, for she had been continually aware of the consequences of putting a foot in the wrong place or saying something foolish due to her nervousness. Any slip would have been noted, not just by Lord Thornbridge, but by those
watching her. Now, however, as she rose from her curtsey, Emma could take in long breaths of relief. It had all gone very well.
“Wait a moment, Lady Emma. I have a thought.”
To her astonishment. Lord Thornbridge did not offer her his arm, nor lead her from the floor. Instead, he took a small step closer to her, his eyes suddenly alive.
“I… I am afraid I do not know what you mean.”
Lord Thornbridge grinned at her.
“Shall we bolster your mother and father’s hopes a little more, Lady Emma?” he asked, tilting his head just a little. “I know this may well be a foolish thing to ask, but is there, by any chance, one dance remaining on your dance card, so that I might have the honor of standing up with you again?”
A flash of liquid heat ran from the crown of her head to the tips of her toes as she looked up at him for some moments, before then fumbling for her dance card. Handing it to him, the heat was then replaced with a great chill as Emma realized that everyone near her would be aware of what she was doing. They would see that she was giving her dance card to Lord Thornbridge again before they had even stepped to the side of the room! What would they think?
Turning her head slightly, Emma caught sight of her parents, noting the way that her mother had clapped both hands to her mouth. But there was no distress in her eyes, for there was a joyous delight that transformed her expression. Emma’s own heart was tumbling freely, all too aware of the attention she was garnering.
“You have the waltz free, Lady Emma. Have you permission to dance it?”
Thus far, Emma had not been granted permission to dance the waltz, but having glanced at her mother’s expression, she had no doubt that both her mother and father would be very glad indeed for her to do so, particularly if it was with Lord Thornbridge.
“For you, Lord Thornbridge, I will be permitted to do so.”
Her words were a little uneven, her voice a little unsteady, but Lord Thornbridge did not seem to notice. Instead, he smiled, dipped his head, wrote his name, and then returned the card to her.
“I look forward to waltzing with you, Lady Emma,” he murmured, offering her his arm again. “Let us return to the other guests before the next dance begins.”
Managing a smile and feeling her heart race furiously as she accepted his arm, Emma found herself smiling with relief that she was now able to return to her mother and her father, more away from the watchful eyes of the ton.
It was not until they began walking that she finally comprehended the significance of what he had offered her.
In front of everyone, in front of all of watching society, Lord Thornbridge had chosen her as the object of his interest. He had never danced twice with any young lady of the ton before; he was well known for it. She could not guess what such interest might lead to, but at least now there was a little hope. Hope that she might become significant to Lord Thornbridge, hope that she might find herself as the chosen young lady of his affections, hope that she could, with any luck, become his bride.
It was a joyous moment indeed.
“T
C H A P T E R O N E
his cannot be.”
“I am afraid it is, my Lord.” His solicitor looked back at him with a somewhat befuddled expression, although Henry was sure that it matched his own. “You yourself came in here very early this morning. I had only just arrived. You insisted that near to two thirds of your fortune be signed over to the gentleman who accompanied you. I did ask whether or not such a thing was truly what you wished, but you were quite determined.”
“I do not recall any of this.” Henry thrust one hand through his thick, light brown hair and shook his head. “I cannot understand what has taken place. I should never have done such a foolish thing as that.”
“I confess myself a little surprised, my Lord,” his solicitor replied, frowning slightly. “But you must understand, you were most insistent and a little angry, I would add, when I did not do as you had asked immediately.”
Henry winced, aware now that the man before him had done everything in his power to make certain that all was well. For whatever reason, it seemed that Henry himself had been the one to give away his fortune to some unknown gentleman.
“This cannot be,” he muttered again, although the heaviness of his situation began to weigh down on his soul. It was not something he could escape, not something he could turn away from. Not anymore. His life, as he had known it, was at an end. “It must be
reversed.” Snapping himself to attention, he shot a hard look at his solicitor, ignoring the radiating pain which began to creep up from his back towards his shoulders. “There must be some way to reclaim the money. Might you be able to come up with a legal document?
The man blinked rapidly, his face now a little pale.
“I would do such a thing if it were possible, my Lord.” Licking his lips, he spread his hands. “I could make up the legal document required, but it would need the signature of the gentleman you handed the money to in the first place. Would you be able to bring him here for such a thing?”
Groaning, Henry dropped his head into his hands.
“Given that I cannot even recall his face, I certainly cannot offer you his title.” An idea came to him, and he lifted his head. “His name must have been on the initial document, however, must it not? The one where my money was given to him.”
“Yes, my Lord, it was, but I was not permitted to see it. You are the only one who could read the document and all I procured was the signatures.”
“And where is this document now?”
“You… You took it with you, my Lord. I wished very much to make a copy given the situation and circumstances but-”
“You need not say it,” Henry interrupted. “No doubt I objected, or some such thing is that not so?”
“It was most extraordinary,” the solicitor answered, his hands still out to either side. “As your humble servant, however, I must do as you request. It is your fortune, after all… as you reminded me yourself on many occasions this morning.”
A thick, paralyzing darkness seemed to rush over Henry as he thought about his future. As it stood, his circumstances were very dire indeed. A large amount of his fortune was gone. His estate was currently undergoing some repairs, and some of what was left of his fortune would have to pay for that – but what was he to do thereafter? Live on the meager amount for the rest of his days? The planned redecoration of some of his estate rooms could certainly not go ahead now.
He rose abruptly.
“My… my Lord?”
“There is nothing to be done.” Hardly able to look at the man, Henry shook his head. “There is nothing to be done at all. It seems that I am now in a very different circumstance from the one I was secure in only last evening – and all supposedly at my own hand! I do not understand any of this.”
“I am sorry.” The solicitor’s face was now sheet white, perhaps fearful that he was to bear the brunt of Henry’s wrath. “I could do nothing else. I –”
“I do not blame you for this,” Henry interrupted quickly, aware that while he wished to direct his anger somewhere it ought not to go anywhere near his solicitor. “You need have no fear of me blaming you. I would ask, however, that should you see this fellow again – the one to whom I seemingly willingly gave my fortune –that you inform me of it at once. In fact, when you have a few moments, might you write me a detailed description of this fellow?
“I shall write it and send it to your townhouse, along with the document which will permit you to regain your fortune, should you find the man and have him sign it in response,” the solicitor suggested.
Henry nodded firmly.
“Yes, that is a good idea. I confess that I am very confused at present, and the only thing I can think to do is return to my townhouse and attempt to recall what happened last evening.” He spoke half to himself, and half to his solicitor, but the man nodded sympathetically as if he understood the deep distress which now wrapped tight around Henry’s shoulders. “And if you recall anything else, please inform me of it at once,” Henry continued.
With a wave of his hand, and saying nothing else, he turned on his heel and strode towards the door. His solicitor said something more, but Henry paid no attention. He could not recall what had happened last evening, save for the fact that he was now in some severe amount of pain and his mind was entirely clouded. He had found himself in an unfamiliar situation in the early hours of the morning – sitting in a gambling den with very little idea as to what had happened. Shortly afterward, he had found Lord Stoneleigh
injured and, upon trying to hail a hackney to his townhouse, had found Lord Silverton also. Lord Silverton seemed to have been aware of his lack of fortune by some means or another, but their urgency had been with Lord Stoneleigh. By and by, he had found all of his friends, save for Lord Foster, and they were now gone to confirm that the situation they woke to find themselves in was indeed as dark as it appeared.
Now they were all to return to Lord Foster’s residence, in the hope that their friend had returned home – else where else might they find him? Henry’s stomach rolled as he got into his carriage, closing his eyes, silently praying that Lord Foster had managed to return home.
Andwhatdifficultieswilllieinwaitformenow?
No longer would he be one of the most eligible gentlemen in all of England, not when his fortune was so significantly reduced. He might be able to hide it from society for a time, but it would not be for long.
AndnorcanItakeonabride.
Closing his eyes tightly, Henry leaned his head back against the squabs. That was of more significance than he had initially considered and, to his astonishment, caused him a great sense of loss. This, combined with the pain in his body, made him feel as though everything in him was about to shatter into nothingness. Everything he was, everything he had built up for so long, was about to be taken away from him.
The carriage reached Lord Foster’s townhouse and drew up at the same time as Lord Wiltsham and Lord Stoneleigh’s conveyances. Henry managed a brief smile as he climbed out of his carriage.
“Is it as bad as you thought?” Lord Wiltsham asked immediately, and it was all Henry could do to nod. His friend’s eyes narrowed. “Then it is as I feared. There has been some wicked scheme that has overtaken us all.” Scowling, he shook his head. “Something has happened. Something very dark indeed. We have all been duped –intentionally, so I believe.”
Henry shook his head.
“I cannot agree with you. This has been my own foolishness, I think.”
Lord Stoneleigh let out a low groan, and Lord Wiltsham immediately jumped to attention.
“My apologies, my friend.”
Remembering that Lord Stoneleigh was injured, Henry reacted immediately, hurrying forward.
“I have already seen a surgeon, but another is coming,” Lord Stoneleigh muttered, managing to cast a weak smile toward Henry. “I will not die, however. That is a relief, at least.”
Henry managed to return the smile with an effort, his eyes going to Lord Wiltsham. His friend was frowning heavily, his eyes shadowed. Was there even the slightest possibility that what Lord Wiltsham had suggested could be true, Henry wondered as they helped Lord Stoneleigh into the house. Could it be that this was some great and nefarious scheme, whereby five gentlemen of the ton would lose their fortunes to an unscrupulous sort? His heart clattered suddenly, recalling how Lord Gillespie had been the one to encourage them to the East End of London. Had he done so knowing exactly what would happen, should they go there? That was very difficult to believe, for Lord Gillespie was as much a gentleman as the rest of them, and a close friend to some. Besides which, there was no obvious reason for him to have behaved with such cold callousness unless the man had been facing a circumstance that the rest of them knew very little about.
The door opened and the butler admitted them.
“Lord Silverton has arrived already,” the man murmured. “I am to rouse Lord Foster in a moment and will have him join you. The maid will bring you all some refreshment.”
Without a word, Henry continued into the house with Lord Stoneleigh and Lord Wiltsham, making their way to the drawing room and joining Lord Silverton, who let out a murmur of evident relief upon seeing them. Within a few minutes, not only they, but Lord Pottinger had arrived also, leaving them now to await the arrival of Lord Foster.
Henry looked around the room, but took nothing in, finding his heart dropping lower with every moment. Were they all without fortune now? And if that was true, then it could be that what Lord Wiltsham had suggested was possible.
Ihavebeenduped.
“I do not think that Lord Foster is aware of what has taken place,” Lord Silverton muttered darkly, breaking the silence. “When I arrived and insisted on staying, his butler informed me that he would have to awaken Lord Foster. I was relieved to know that he was here, but sleep is not something that any of us could do at present. Therefore, it must be that he simply has no knowledge of it.”
“We will have to impart heavy news to him,” Lord Wiltsham murmured, as Henry nodded grimly.
He certainly could not even think about sleep at the present moment. Yes, his head ached, and his body was sore, but he could not allow himself to rest.
“I wonder if he will remember anything. My memory is very faded indeed.”
Seeing the other men nod slowly, Henry closed his eyes. It was of great concern to realize that he had no recollection of what had taken place the previous evening. Yes, he might have been in his cups, but that did not usually mean he had forgotten every detail.
“I am certain that is because some of us were given something to make certain that we did not remember,” one of the gentlemen muttered, rubbing one hand over his face.
“Then the only way I will be able to regain what has been taken from me is if I can have the gentleman who took it in the first place sign it back to me.” Scowling, he shrugged. “I do not think that I have any great chance of success.”
“You cannot recall the man, I assume?”
Lord Stoneleigh’s eyes were heavy with shadow and pain.
“No, I cannot. Evidently, I insisted that any documents pertaining to the exchange were taken by my hand. I would not allow my solicitor to copy them.”
Lord Stoneleigh groaned as he shifted in his chair, resting his head back.
“I assume that you do not have such documents in your possession any longer either?”
Henry shook his head no. Shifting in his chair, he gripped the arms in frustration.
“Repairs and improvements at the estate will have to be suspended, where they can be.”
“Has everyone lost a great deal?”
Again, Lord Stoneleigh asked a question, but it took some time for the gentlemen to respond.
Lord Wiltsham’s brow twitched.
“Yes.”
His voice was quiet but hard.
“I have lost a significant amount,” came Lord Silverton’s reply, “and shall have to make a great many changes if I am to be able to live out my days without fear of starvation.”
“I shall have no fripperies and enjoy no frivolity.” Henry sighed and closed his eyes, aware of the heaviness in his soul. “And I shall have to pray that the crops at my estate do reasonably well for the next few years.” Swallowing hard as he faced the reality of his new situation, he ran one hand down over his eyes. “My mother currently resides at my estate also. There is the Dower House but….”
At present, Lady Thornbridge, his mother, lived at his estate while he remained unmarried, which was precisely where she belonged. There was a Dower House waiting for her for when his circumstances changed, but now that he was in financial difficulty, could he really afford to have another home staffed and furnished for one singular lady? Then again, it was not something he needed to consider as yet, he realized, his rueful smile taking the edge of his mouth. He would not be marrying anytime soon, for what young lady would wish to even consider him, now that his wealth, fortune, and good standing were significantly reduced.
WhatofLadyEmma?
He was a little surprised at the depth of feeling which crashed through him when he considered her. This last fortnight he had since spent a great deal of time in her company, being with her almost every day, in fact. They had walked together, taken tea together,
danced together, and his interest in the lady had been noticed by society. He had not cared about their considerations nor their gossip, however, for his interest in Lady Emma was genuine. She had captured his eye from the very first moment, when they had been introduced, but he had not allowed himself to consider her with any significance for some time, waiting to see if his interest remained or if after a short while, it would fade away.
During his first few weeks of the Season, Henry had been a little intrigued as to how often his eyes sought her out amongst a crowd, and it had been then that he had decided, in his own heart, to pursue the lady with a little more intentionality. These last few weeks, he had done precisely that and had been glad at her eager response. For himself, his interest in her had not waned - in fact, it had only grown, but now that connection would have to be broken.
The thought of separating himself from Lady Emma was so painful that his heart felt as if it had torn itself asunder. A groan escaped him, without him having had any intention of allowing it to do so, but his depth of feeling would not permit him to do anything else. They had spoken of courtship. He had assured her of his commitment to her and now, what was he to do? His heart was not unaffected by the lady. He had found himself feeling more for her than he had ever expected and, if he was honest with himself, had been considering matrimony. Everything he had thought of had been of his future with her, expecting it to be bright, hopeful, and secure. However, it seemed that he would have to leave those plans aside. He would have to shift everything from his heart and forget about her entirely. Such a notion seemed quite impossible, but there was no other way for him to continue. His hopes for the future, with Lady Emma by his side, were gone completely. Everything they had enjoyed thus far would have to be set aside completely. He could no longer touch her hand in brief, hidden moments nor share secret smiles with her that he gave to none other. Those beautiful, wondrous moments which had held so much promise were now torn from him, leaving him with nothing but shadow and dust.
“Gentlemen.” His thoughts were interrupted by Lord Foster, who strode into the room looking at them all through bleary eyes. “My
butler said something about someone being injured?”
“It is more serious than that,” Henry replied, unable to find the strength to rise from his chair. “We have allbeen injured, with Lord Stoneleigh bearing the physical pain. Lord Foster, it seems that we are all feeling the brunt of severe and malignant cruelty.”
His own heart turned over on itself as he once more faced the stark circumstances which surrounded him.
There was not even a hint of light and, as Lord Wiltsham began to explain, Henry felt himself sinking even more deeply into shadow.
“IF ANYONE CALLS, they are to be shown in at once. Do you understand?”
The butler nodded.
“Yes, my Lord.”
The man did not ask anything further, but Henry caught the slight glimmer in his eyes, telling him that the man was somewhat confused about the current happenings. Henry did not care, however, and nor was he about to explain.
He was not in his study for more than a few minutes when the door opened and Lord Wiltsham stepped inside, coming into the room, and sitting down without even so much as a word of greeting.
“It is as we feared. It is all confirmed.”
Folding his arms across his chest, Lord Wiltsham closed his eyes tightly for a second, then shook his head.
Henry sucked in a breath, his chest immediately tight.
“You mean to say that all six of us have been duped in one way or another?”
Lord Wiltsham nodded.
“We have.”
“Then what are we to do?”
Henry sat down heavily in his chair, his back aching furiously, and a sharp pain shooting from his shoulder through to his heart.
“I am not quite certain what we are to do,” Lord Wiltsham admitted quietly. “Lord Foster is determined to discover the truth, and to regain his fortune in one way or another, although I am not convinced that he will be able to do so. However, he has asked me to stay in London for a short while to aid him in his search, even though my intention was to return to my estate.”
“Then you intend to do so? To stay here?”
“I do not think it would be right of me to run away, not when my friend has asked for my aid,” Lord Wiltsham admitted. “I will stay for a time. However long it may be, I cannot say as yet.”
“I will return to my estate.” Henry spoke with great decisiveness, finding it an antithesis to the concern, fear, and confusion which ran through him. “If Lord Foster finds anything of use, however, then I will return.”
Shifting in his seat, he grimaced as yet more pain ran through his frame.
Lord Wiltsham frowned.
“You look as though you are in pain. You have not been injured also, have you?”
“I am unaware of it. There was no blood on my shirt,” Henry replied. “My valet would have mentioned it otherwise.”
“But would he have mentioned an injury?” Lord Foster asked. “Or would he say nothing, believing that you were already aware of it?”
Scowling, Henry pulled his mouth to one side.
“Perhaps, perhaps not. I will admit however, that I am in some pain whenever my shoulders twist. Whenever I turn my head or rest my back against something, be it soft or hard, then there is some pain.”
“Then might I suggest you look?” Lord Foster rose. “I will give you privacy should you wish it.”
Henry laughed darkly.
“Given that I cannot see my back, I think that I require your presence rather than your absence,” he stated with a grin. “You are my friend. Perhaps you would be able to aid me in much the same way as you are willing to aid Lord Foster?”
“But of course.”
Shrugging out of his jacket, Henry removed his shirt without even a flicker of embarrassment. He and Lord Wiltsham had been friends for a long time, and this was in no way a mortification. When he turned, however, Lord Foster’s exclamation was enough to make him jump in surprise.
“What is it?”
Twisting his head, Henry attempted to look over his shoulder but could see very little, finding himself wincing in pain.
“Little wonder that you are suffering!” Lord Wiltsham was out of his chair in an instant. “There are bruises all over your back – a great many of them.” He came a little closer, his eyes narrowed. “And there are one or two very significant red marks, as though the tip of a knife has been pushed hard against your skin. These are significant injuries, Thornbridge. Something severe must have happened to you.”
“And how can I recall none of it?” Grabbing for his shirt, Henry shook his head. “How can I have no recollection of it whatsoever? It makes very little sense and I –”
The door opened again and to his horror, none other than Lady Emma came into the room. Her eyes flared and, for a moment, it seemed as though everything stopped. Henry could not help but stare at her, his breath twisting in his chest, his mouth a little ajar –and then, without a word passing between them, her face disappeared again.
The heat which seared him was so significant that he felt it burn his face, his body, and even his very heart. Why had he been so foolish as to say that anyone who came to the door should be shown in immediately, without question, and without an introduction? He had quite forgotten that Lady Emma and her cousin were to come to call, and had only been expecting his friends, ready to discuss what had taken place and to find out what each of them now planned to do about their circumstances.
Instead, Lady Emma had been the one to see him, bare-chested and with such a look of fury on his face that she would be wondering just what she had stumbled upon. She would also, most
likely, have been able to see his bruises, his injuries and as yet, he had no explanation for it.
“Allow me to show the ladies to the library, perhaps,” Lord Wiltsham suggested as Henry hurriedly replaced his shirt. “I will do whatever I can to explain this situation away.”
“I thank you.”
Groaning at his own ridiculousness, Henry waited until Lord Wiltsham had closed the door before letting out a low groan. Placing both hands on the back of a chair, he dropped his head law, ignoring the scream of his back as he did so.
WhathaveIdone?
C H A P T E R T W O
“Y
ou are not to speak of what just took place to your mother. Do you understand?”
Emma rolled her eyes at her cousin.
“You may be wed, Diane, and I may be as yet unmarried, but I have just as much sense as you,” she stated calmly. “I am well aware that I am not to speak up to mother about what I just saw. I think that she would bar me from Lord Thornbridge’s company, even if she doesthink him the most eligible gentleman in all of London, and is overwhelmed by the fact that he has, thus far, chosen to place his attentions on me.”
Her cousin nodded but said nothing, her lips in a thin line as they sat facing each other in the carriage. She was more than a little concerned about what had taken place, and what she had allowed Emma to witness - although it was, of course, by no means her fault. Emma had thought it almost a boon to be permitted the chance to walk into Lord Thornbridge’s drawing room without the need for the butler to introduce them.
Emma considered now that it must have been a mistake on his part, for why ever would he have let her walk in on him in such a state of undress? It could not have been deliberate and, given the awkwardness of their meeting thereafter, she was quite certain it had been entirely accidental. Lord Thornbridge had, perhaps, forgotten his invitation for her to take tea with him that afternoon, for he already had Lord Wiltsham with him, and by the time it took
for them to enjoy a single cup of tea, the butler had been in to speak to Lord Thornbridge twice before withdrawing again. On both occasions, Lord Thornbridge had nodded and frowned, appearing most severe in his expression, which was not something that Emma was at all used to. Lord Thornbridge was, by and large, a jovial fellow, but now he did not seem to be. Throughout the duration of her short visit, he had not smiled even once, and his normally light grey eyes were significantly darker. They had not rested on her face for any length of time and, indeed, he had run one hand over his chin on multiple occasions, as if thinking deeply about something, and his conversation had lulled as a result.
She had wondered at his lack of interest, and while Lord Wiltsham had done an excellent job of making certain that both she and her cousin were never without something to say, Emma had been all too aware of Lord Thornbridge’s silence.
“You have told me everything, have you not?” Her cousin looked back at her steadily. “I only caught a glimpse, but you then pushed me backward while remaining there yourself for a long moment.” One eyebrow lifted. “It seems very strange to me that a gentleman would wish to change his shirt in his own drawing room.” Eventually – and to Emma’s relief, Diane looked out of the carriage window. “Lord Thornbridge is a strange fellow, mayhap.”
Emma did not permit this to be met with any response. Her cousin had not seen the bruises on Lord Thornbridge’s back, it appeared. If she had done so, then it would have certainly come up in conversation. That was something that troubled Emma greatly. Why should Lord Thornbridge have such awful injuries to his back and shoulders? Whatever had happened to him? The look on his face when she had opened the door had been one of great anger, which had swiftly turned to shock as their eyes had met.
Surely it could not be that Lord Wiltsham was the gentleman who had injured him so? He was known to be an excellent gentleman and Emma would admit herself to be very surprised indeed if he should have done such a thing. No, she considered, no doubt Lord Wiltsham would have been ensuring that such injuries were not of
the devastating sort. That would be the most reasonable explanation.
“If you have nothing further to say, then you must put what you saw completely out of your mind,” her cousin stated firmly. “I can see by your eyes that you are thinking about it. It is not proper for a young lady to see a gentleman so unclothed.”
“I hardly did such a thing purposefully.” Sniffing lightly, Emma lifted her chin a little, disliking her cousin’s tone. “I will admit that I am thinking of it, but I am not doing so in any salacious manner. I am thinking of it because I am concerned as to what our acquaintance will be like, now that I have seen him so. He has been paying me a great deal of attention of late, as you are aware. There will be an awkwardness there now, will there not?”
The worry suddenly grew as she spoke, as if she were giving it life and Emma bit her lip.
“I am certain nothing will change.” Her cousin smiled softly, evidently no longer as distressed. Perhaps it was that she realized how Emma was feeling at present, aware of the concern that Lord Thornbridge might no longer wish to be acquainted with her because of the embarrassing situation. “I do not think him such an unseemly fellow as that. It is embarrassing, yes, and certainly it raises some questions, but he will not step away from you because of it. You have nothing to fear. We took tea with him after all, did we not?”
Emma nodded, no longer finding her cousin irritating, but rather a balm for her growing concerns.
“Yes, you are right. Although he was rather quiet, and not his usual jovial self.”
“Given the circumstances, I do not think that surprising.”
A smile caught the edge of Diane’s lips and Emma could not help but laugh.
“Yes indeed, it was very awkward, was it not?”
“Highly so.” Diane passed one hand over her eyes and then giggled, betraying the fact that she was still very much a young lady rather than a mature married woman; a picture that she so often seemed to wish to portray. “Here we are now at your parent’s
house.” Forcing a straight face, Diane drew in a deep breath, then set both hands in her lap. “Remember now, not a word. You will say that everything has gone well. We took tea and have returned in the hope of some refreshment before stepping out for this evening’s ball.”
“An excellent idea.” Catching the glint in Diane’s eye, she struggled not to laugh, seeing her mother rush forward from the house, evidently desperate in her eagerness to hear how the afternoon had gone.
“Goodness, Mama appears very excited indeed!”
With a deep breath, she straightened her smile just as the carriage door was opened for her.
“Well!” her mother exclaimed the moment that Emma stepped out of the carriage. “You must tell me how your tea went with Lord Thornbridge. My, but I was devastated to be unable to attend with you today, but your father was most insistent!”
“Yes, Mama. I am well aware that Father required your presence with Lord and Lady Renmark.” Pressing her mother’s hand, she glanced over her shoulder towards Diane, who was just now exiting the carriage. “My cousin did very well. The tea and cakes were delicious and the conversation excellent, would you not agree, Diane?”
The smallest twitch of Diane’s lips betrayed the mirth which was still within her, but when she spoke, her voice was calm and steady.
“It was a very pleasant afternoon.”
“I am delighted to hear it. I am certain that Lord Thornbridge will soon ask to court you.” Clasping her hands tightly, Lady Stanbury made her way back inside the house, beckoning Emma to follow. “Come now. We must make certain that you are fully prepared for this evening’s ball.”
“Mama.” Trying to keep the calmness in her voice, Emma shook her head. “There is no need for such a rush. There will be dinner first and thereafter –”
“Nonsense.” Her mother grasped her hand firmly, and Emma had no other choice but to hurry into the house. “There is much that can
be done before dinner. You want to look your very best for Lord Thornbridge, do you not?”
Emma blinked.
“Yes, Mama, I do. But –”
“Then there is no need to be concerned,” Lady Stanbury exclaimed. “Come now. Up to your room and no further protests. Your cousin will take tea in the drawing room, and you and I shall join her in a short while. We must make certain that your gown fits you perfectly, and that your hair is washed and brushed well in advance of this evening.”
Emma hid her sigh behind a smile as she followed her mother. Lady Stanbury meant well, but to Emma’s mind, there was no great urgency, given that there were a good many hours before even the dinner gong would sound! Her mother disagreed, however, and there was no choice but for Emma to do as was required of her.
“You will be the most beautiful young lady in all of London this evening,” her mother declared. “Many gentlemen will look at you, I am sure, but your beauty will be for Lord Thornbridge’s eyes alone.”
“Yes Mama,” Emma agreed quietly.
In truth, looking her very best for Lord Thornbridge could be no bad thing. After this afternoon’s awkwardness, she would do all that she could to make certain that their acquaintance remained as comfortable as before and mayhap, if she looked well, there would be no need for any strained conversation. Perhaps they would dance and smile and laugh as they had done before, and the afternoon’s strangeness would be forgotten.
Allthesame,IamnotcertainthatIshallever beabletogetthat picturefrommymind,she told herself, walking into her bedchamber. Perhaps one day Lord Thornbridge would tell her what had happened, and what he had been doing. But for the moment, Emma knew it was in her best interests to remain silent about what she had witnessed.
Lord Thornbridge would tell her in his own good time.
“YOU HAVE ENJOYED a close acquaintance with Lord Thornbridge these last few weeks.”
Emma smiled to herself, recalling the nearness of his most recent embrace. Yes, it had happened during their dance at the last ball, but he had pulled her closer to him than he ought, and she had lingered. It had been most exciting, for these last few weeks there had only been the occasional brush of fingers and smiles which spoke of hope and promise. Her desire to stay close to him was increasing evermore, and all that was going on in her heart was both a little curious and perhaps even strangely disconcerting. But given that Lord Thornbridge had made it clear that he was deepening their acquaintance, Emma allowed herself to feel everything her heart wished.
There willbecourtship, she reminded herself, recalling what she and Lord Thornbridge had spoken of. Courtship and, thereafter , perhapsbetrothal.
“Emma?”
Blinking, she smiled at her mother.
“Yes, Lord Thornbridge and I are continuing our acquaintance, Mama. I have hopes for the future also.”
“And what is it that you hope for?” Her mother smiled, as Emma laughed. “Courtship? Betrothal?”
“Perhaps.”
“Then you shall be the envy of all of London! Lord Thornbridge is a most excellent gentleman.”
“I certainly would agree with that description of him.” Emma smiled, her heart lifting gently as she thought of the man who had become somewhat dearer to her of late. “We have spoken of courtship, Mama. In a short time, Lord Thornbridge will make clear his intentions to Father.”
Her mother clapped her hands together.
“How wonderful! I shall not say a word until Lord Thornbridge speaks to your father, however – no matter how difficult it may be!” Her mother laughed and then took Emma’s hand, pressing it lightly. “Enjoy this evening. You must put on your best smile, for Lord Thornbridge must still see the best of you.”
“Thank you, Mama.”
Her mother said something about going to speak with another acquaintance, and Emma watched her depart, only for her cousin to take her arm.
“You do look quite beautiful this evening.” Diane smiled, but her eyes then widened. “That is not to say that you do not always look beautiful, but more that your mother’s insistence on particular ministrations has done a most effective job of highlighting your –”
“Diane.” Laughing, Emma put one hand on her cousin’s arm. “I am not at all insulted. I know exactly what you mean, and I am grateful for the compliment. I will admit to you that my mother has done a very exceptional job, although I was loath to admit it at the time, however!”
She smiled at her cousin – now Lady Fullerton - feeling a bond growing slowly between them. They had not been closely acquainted for many years, and the truth was that Emma did not know her cousin particularly well. That being said, she was grateful for the opportunity to spend time with her for, whilst she had made some friends last Season, they had all managed to find husbands while she had not. Such a thing did not trouble her, however, for she had promised herself that she would only enjoy the Season without making any particular endeavors to find a suitable match. Diane had come to London at the request of Lady Stanbury, aware that Lord Fullerton was disinclined towards society and company as a whole. Thus, Diane had come to town and now acted as her chaperone at times, even though she was only a year or so older than Emma herself.
“Look, there he is.”
Diane managed to point in Lord Thornbridge’s direction without so much as turning her head or making it in any way apparent that she was looking at him. It was only a swift flick of her eyes that told Emma precisely where Lord Thornbridge was.
Placing a small smile upon her lips, Emma turned her head from the left to the right and caught sight of him, just as he caught sight of her. Her stomach swirled with a delightful notion that perhaps
somehow their souls had known that the other was present, and that was why their eyes had caught so.
“He is looking at me.”
“Of course he is.” Diane smiled. “I have told you that you are exceptionally handsome this evening. I am certain that Lord Thornbridge has noticed.”
Emma smiled, but that quickly faded when she noticed that Lord Thornbridge was not, himself, smiling. In fact, a line had formed between his brows, even though his gaze remained fixed on her. Recalling what she had witnessed, Emma immediately placed a smile upon her lips as she nodded her head in his direction, silently praying that he would accept her smile as a promise that all was well between them. Lord Thornbridge inclined his head to her in return, but there was still no smile. Perhaps he was feeling much too awkward to do such a thing and would require the chance to speak with her before he could feel at ease.
“He approaches,” Diane murmured as Emma licked her lips, a little surprised at how nervous she felt. Yes, Lord Thornbridge was devastatingly handsome and yes, they had spent a good deal of time in each other’s company thus far, but she had never felt such anxiety before. Perhaps it was knowing that she had seen him in a particular state that brought her such nervousness. Yes, she considered lifting her chin slightly, as though to garner confidence within her own self, that was exactlywhy she was feeling so.
“Good evening.” Lord Thornbridge inclined his head rather sharply, and Emma blinked in surprise, managing to return the gesture with a curtsey, although it took her a matter of moments to recover herself fully. The man was still not smiling, and her own heart was clamoring with a sudden, devastating fear. Surely he could not tell her now that there was something amiss with what she had witnessed? Had there been someone else in the room other than Lord Wiltsham, someone who might now ruin her reputation?
“This is most untoward, but might I beg a moment?”
Lord Thornbridge directed his attention to Emma, and she glanced towards Diane, who nodded slowly.
