Gailyn couldn’t fathom such a family. Her father was under so much distress at her disappearance, he was offering a king’s ransom for her return. Surely her mother had taken to bed with grief. There was no doubt in her mind that her family was distressed beyond words.
“Who is your father?”
A soft noise wakened Gailyn from slumber. Across from the bed at the wardrobe, Kevin pulled a shirt from it. He was currently bare from the waist up, giving her a wonderful view of his muscled back.
Gailyn remained still, not wanting to alert him she was awake. Thankfully, just enough light came through the small porthole to light his smooth, olive skin.
His arms were thick and well defined. It was obvious he worked hard to have developed such a physique. When he pulled the clean shirt over his head, she wanted to protest.
After tying his hair back with a leather strap, he pulled on an overcoat that fell to his ankles and quietly slipped from the room.
Gailyn looked up at the ceiling, her lips curving. She looked forward to exploring his entire body after they married.
They arrived back at the docks, greeted by gray skies and drizzle. Nonetheless, it was a glorious day in Gailyn’s opinion. Upon getting out of the small dinghy they’d rowed to shore in, she and Kevin were spirited away in an unmarked carriage.
At the Brighton mansion, the carriage had barely come to a stop when her family, which included her father, mother, sister, and assorted aunts and uncles, all spilled from the entry and rushed to greet her.
Her father, mother, and younger sister were given license to be the first to hug and kiss a now sobbing Gailyn. But the need to do the same soon overcame the rest of them.
The entire time, Gailyn cried tears of joy at the open showing of love and affection.
As a unit, the Brightons moved to the front entrance where, once again, she was greeted with uncustomary hugs and kisses from the staff. Maddie, her maid, rushed to her, happy tears pouring. “Miss Gailyn. I am so happy. So very happy.”
She caught glances of Kevin, who stood on the sidelines, eyes hooded, watching her homecoming. He didn’t seem at all out of place, but more like there was a wall keeping others away. Her aunts and female cousins all kept sliding glances over to him, but none went near. Several of the men, her father included, shook his hand and thanked him for her safe return.
Finally, everyone moved into one of the larger dining areas so everyone could celebrate with a full meal that had miraculously been prepared at the strange hour of early afternoon.
Kevin and her father entered the room in conversation. Her father insisted he join in the meal and Kevin was seated next to her. Everyone looked to them in expectation as if they had an announcement to make.
If anything, her family was quite inquisitive. It was a trait of sorts. Everyone knew the Brighton family for their standing in society and also for their inquiring nature.
Gailyn cleared her throat. “Captain MacAlpin is responsible for my safe return. He and I have become friends. I was treated well while in his custody and was able to learn a great deal about life at sea.”
She wasn’t sure what else needed to be said. He’d not responded as of yet to her marriage proposal. It was a bit disconcerting, but she was sure he’d come around quite soon, as her logic made sense.
Her Aunt Repurtina pointed a bony finger in their direction. “Young man, what are your intentions toward my niece, who you’ve been in close quarters with for more than a week?”
“Aunt Tina!” Gailyn cried.
There were giggles from the younger cousins. The older women watched Kevin with interest while the men assumed more of a scowl. Her mother and sister’s eyes widened as each looked to her for a reaction.
Gailyn rolled her eyes.
That he remained nonplused and without reaction told her a great deal of the life he’d led. He looked to her father. “May I speak with you in private, sir?”
“Of course,” her father replied. “After we eat.” He looked to the others. “Let’s speak of other things. I’m sure Gailyn would enjoy the distraction.”
Kevin was not only surprised by the conduct at Gailyn’s homecoming, but it had also warmed his heart to know there were still loving families. It was evident the Brightons were close knit and spent much time together. He’d noted throughout the meal that several women had chosen to remain single and were not ostracized, nor did the family seem to look down upon their decision.
Gailyn’s younger sister, Sybil, was shy, a younger version of her with the same intelligent gaze. She’d commented upon his hair, asking why he kept it so long. It wasn’t a criticism, but pure curiosity. When he explained he preferred it long because shorter meant constant trimmings to keep the hair from his face and eyes. This way, he could pull it back or braid it and it would remain set.
“What a great idea,” she’d exclaimed and clapped. “I think more men should wear it long. If it suits them, of course.”
Finally, as the meal came to its end, Lord Brighton motioned to him. “We should adjourn to my study.”
Not only did he and Lord Brighton stand, but two other older men did as well. He understood. They were other patriarchs who, knowing his reputation, would keep the lord safe if any of the conversation went awry.
The environment in the study was nonthreatening. Upon entering, each man poured brandy. A glass was pushed into his hand and then everyone settled. Deference was given to Gailyn’s father, who motioned to the other men. “I’d like to introduce my brothers again as I’m sure, with all the melee of Gailyn’s return, you may not remember.”
“My oldest brother, Duke Richard Brighton, and my younger brother, Lord Bradley Brighton.”
The duke was obviously older with gray hair and mustache, but his astute and sharp brown eyes told that he remained very able. The younger brother, Lord Bradley, resembled Gailyn’s father at about mid-forty with sharp features and blue eyes.
“To the subject at hand,” Duke Brighton spoke. “My family is prepared to pay you as promised. We wish to thank you profusely for what you’ve done to return my dear niece to us.” He paused for effect as Lord Brighton pushed three large pouches of coins in his direction. “Also, I have spoken to the king and he has agreed to pardon your past offenses with one condition.”
A slight tremble went through his body, an omen of something unsettling about to be said. “And what is that condition?”
The duke looked to Lord Brighton who cleared his throat. “That you assume your proper place in society once again, as Lord Chatterton. Your father is not a healthy man and you are the heir to his fortune and estates.”
“No.” He stood and placed the glass on the side table. “I cannot do that.”
“Of course you can.” This time is was Gailyn’s father who spoke. “Your father will be most pleased. Have you sent a messenger?”
“To tell him what?” Kevin had to sit again. The conversation was confusing. Did they know his father? Why would his father be pleased?
“Lord Brighton,” Kevin said. “Do you know my father? I doubt he will be pleased to have me take over his title. My younger brother is available to inherit.”
When three men exchanged puzzled looks, he became impatient. “Tell me. What has happened?”
Lord Brighton interlaced his fingers. “Upon our last meeting, I visited your father. He told me he thought you dead. When I told him you were working for the crown under an assumed name,” he paused. “I didn’t want to tell him what you really did for a living, as he is quite fragile. Anyway, when I told him you were alive, he cried. It was then he told me you’d been abducted as a youth and he assumed you’d been killed.”
The duke got his attention next. “He spent a fortune looking for you. When your oldest brother died in a duel, your father resumed the search once again.”
“What of my younger brother?” A huge boulder-like weight crushed his chest making it hard to catch his breath.
Could it be true? All these years his fat
her had not been aware of how he came to be taken away?
“Your brother insisted we tell him all about you. They have appealed to us that, upon your return, we ask that you return home. Like your father, your brother, who professes to remember you quite well, was ecstatic at the news that you are alive and well.”
Kevin remained silent. There was much to consider. With deliberate slowness so as not to waver, he stood. “Gentlemen, I must make my leave.”
“We haven’t discussed Gailyn yet,” Lord Brighton, Gailyn’s father, said as he and the other men stood. “Your reward,” he said, looking to the pouches.
“True,” Kevin said. “I promise to return to speak to her.”
He ignored the reward money as he walked out of the study and directly out the front entrance. Gailyn rushed to him just as he reached the door.
“Are you not going to say goodbye then?” There was disappointment etched on her face.
He wanted to reassure her, to make some sort of remark that would calm her, but he was much too unsettled. “I told your father I would return and I will. There is something I must do at the moment.” He kissed her on the cheek, wishing he could take her with him.
Without waiting for her reply, he walked out the door to a waiting coach.
Chapter Eight
The Chatterton mansion remained almost identical to the day he last was there. Ivy crawled up the walls at the entrance and the iron gates remained open. Just inside, a grove of trees surrounding a small pond with benches here and there remained.
To the left of the house was a large garden where his mother spent many a day side by side with the gardener.
The hired coach followed the circular drive until stopping at the front. Still, Kevin couldn’t move. It was as if his feet were made of lead. He looked out at the front door and took in a sharp breath when it opened.
Their same butler, Charles, now much older and stooped, stood in the opening and looked first up at the driver and then to the coach. The men exchanged greetings and Kevin knew it was time to exit.
At first, Charles didn’t recognize him. The man stood straighter and held his hand out for a calling card. “Who may I say is here?” he said in his familiar haughty tone.
Kevin wasn’t sure what to say. “I’m Captain MacAlpin, here to see Lord Chatterton.”
“The elder?” Charles asked.
“Either.”
“I see.” Charles then studied him. At first, it was a curious perusal. Then his brows lowered as if he tried to remember if they’d met before. And then, ever so slowly, the older man’s eyes widened. “You. It can’t be. Are you Master Kevin?”
“Charles,” he bent at the waist. “I am Captain Kevin MacAlpin, once Lord Chatterton.”
The man went to reach for him but refrained. “Oh. I must tell Lord Chatterton immediately.” He motioned to the house. “The younger, of course, as I’m not sure your father can sustain such a shock.”
“Has he not told you I’m alive?” Kevin asked, remembering that his father and Charles shared everything.
“Aye, I suppose he has, but I was not sure whether I should believe it. Either way, knowing and seeing you in person… all grown, it’s… it’s shocking.”
Despite having spent all night fortifying for the visit, Kevin’s legs wobbled a bit when he walked. He pushed back his shoulders and had to pause just before entering the mansion to ensure he’d not collapse to the ground.
It had been so many years since he’d left. He’d been fifteen years old and not quite a man, nor a child either.
Charles didn’t hurry him, nor did the butler seem at all discomfited by the slow progress. Understanding on his face, he looked forward. “Your father has been quite ill. I think it’s best if I prepare him before you enter. Do you agree, Master Kevin?”
He wanted to correct the old man to not call him by that name any longer. The house was no longer his home. He wasn’t the same person who’d left.
A young man rushed down the stairs. Dressed impeccably in morning gray, his hair was cut in the latest fashion. His brother, Anton, stopped, and both his mouth and eyes widened.
Kevin took a step backward at noting tears, but it was to no avail. The young man threw himself against him, hugging him so tight that it was hard to breathe.
“Thank God. Thank God,” he repeated over and over, sobbing now. “You’re home. You’re finally home.”
Anton, his younger brother who’d been twelve when he’d… left, refused to release him. Kevin hugged him back after a moment, overtaken by his brother’s strong emotions.
“I’m sorry, please forgive me,” Anton said, his words muffled as he continued to press his face into Kevin’s shoulder. “Please, Brother.”
Kevin wasn’t sure how to respond. He didn’t remember the last time he had been held in such a way. The last time his family touched him with love.
“Whatever should I forgive you for?” Kevin asked.
“For not finding you. For not trying harder.” Anton’s entire body shook. “I’m so very sorry.”
Every night before retiring, he and his brothers would kiss both parents goodnight. It had become a ritual until the boys had confronted Lord and Lady Chatterton and insisted they were much too old for their parents to see them to bed. Lady Chatterton had sniffed, looking as if they’d just announced they’d be departing for war.
It had been a heartwarming scene and, every once in a while, Kevin would remember it and smile. His mother was such a sweet soul.
“Where is Mother?”
The question snapped Anton out of his grief and he finally straightened. The dark gaze took Kevin in, studying his face for a long time. “She’s upstairs with Father. I’m surprised she’s not come down yet. I’m sure she heard your coach arrive.”
It was then his mother flew down the stairs, her arms outstretched and her face wet with tears. This time, Kevin couldn’t keep from it. He, too, cried when his mother sobbed against his chest.
They sat in the parlor. Just when Kevin thought they’d have no more questions, his brother and mother would pepper him with more. He told them of life at sea, of being captain of his own ship. He described the Caribbean Islands and other places.
When questioned about why he never contacted them, he finally admitted to believing that they’d all known what his older brother planned.
Afterward, he apologized profusely, now understanding his brother had sought revenge over a girl he’d been infatuated with. The girl had preferred Kevin and, in a fit of teenage angst, his brother had overreacted in the worst, most rash possible way.
“He looked for you, so ridden with guilt that I’m sure it’s why he died. He couldn’t live with the guilt,” his mother said, sniffing into a handkerchief. “My poor boys. All of you suffered for his actions.”
Charles appeared in the entryway. “He insisted.”
His father entered then. The man was still tall and possessed the same proud expression Kevin had regarded in his own reflections.
However, unlike before his departure, his father walked slowly and looked frail. “My son.” He opened his arms as Kevin rushed to him.
Lord George Chatterton III had always ruled the home with a strong fist. But at the same time, he had always been a fair man. He disciplined without wavering, but also showed love openly to his sons and wife.
Pulling his face up, his father kissed him on both cheeks and stared into his face. “Thank God you’re home, Son.”
Home.
Kevin wasn’t sure what to do or say. He didn’t plan to stay. He’d planned to return to the ship. As a matter of fact, as soon as he found out what the king had decided, it would determine the next step. Either he’d divide his time between his estate and the sea, or go out to sea and not return to England. Those had been his plans up until that moment.
Looking over his shoulder to his mother and brother, Kevin wondered how it would be possible to leave them again.
When he tried to assist his father to a
chair, the man scoffed and made his way without help. Lord Chatterton looked to Charles. “Prepare a meal fit for a king. Today, we celebrate. Send word to my brother and Lady Chatterton’s sister as well.”
“It has all been arranged, Lord Chatterton,” Charles replied, as always knowing exactly what to do before he was ordered.
His father locked gazes with him as he settled next to his mother, who held Kevin’s left hand tightly in both of hers. “Lord Brighton tells me you’re a pirate. Awaiting dispensation from the king.”
It was a relief to know his father had been prepared before seeing him.
“You knew?” Both his mother and brother looked to his father, perplexed.
“Why didn’t you tell us?” his mother asked.
“Because he was out there at sea again. I didn’t want you to get your hopes up that he’d return. Lord Brighton informed me of what his life up until now has been and told me he wasn’t sure Kevin would return unless he found the lost girl.”
It took another hour before the details of Gailyn’s abduction were explained and also before his mother calmed down and didn’t seem as angry with his father. They even laughed at one point when Lord Chatterton explained he’d hired men to keep an eye out for Kevin and abduct him if necessary to bring him home.
Kevin couldn’t imagine his father making those types of arrangements.
“What happens now?” his mother asked. “You will remain here, of course, while we wait for the king’s decision.”
Anton nodded. “Yes. You must. We have much to talk about.” His brother’s anguished expression returned.
“I’ve been pardoned of all charges.”
His father seemed to grow stronger in that moment as he joined the other two in cries of relief.
There were voices and a commotion at the front door. A familiar screeching voice made Kevin wince. His aunt, Lavonia, had arrived along with four cousins, all who’d question him to exhaustion.
Nonetheless, he stood and smiled as his exuberant aunt pulled him tightly against her plump body. “Thank the dear Lord. Our prayers have been answered.”
The Sea Lord: Devils of the Deep Page 6
