Embracing The Earl

by Aston, Alexa

  Caroline didn’t need a lady’s maid. She hadn’t had one since she’d left London. Bathing and dressing herself and arranging her hair were simple tasks. She would need a single maid to clean and wash. A cook to feed them. Both of those servants could live elsewhere. If she only used a handful of rooms, it would be possible. She wouldn’t do any entertaining. If she watched things carefully, she could manage to pay her very small staff.

  The time might come where she would consider selling the house. Whatever profit she made could then be used to find rooms to live in. The rest could be poured back into Evie’s. That would be much more practical. She would have to take that into serious consideration.

  Caroline decided to clear her head and walk to the stables to check on Davy. Brimley, the head groom, gave her a ready smile.

  “Come to see young Davy again, my lady?”

  “Yes, if that’s possible.”

  “He’s grooming a horse in the next to last stall on the left,” the groom said helpfully.

  She walked down the long row of stalls and smiled when she heard Davy whistling. Glancing over the closed half-door, she spied him as he combed the black beauty inside.

  “Hello, Davy,” she said.

  The boy stopped whistling and grinned up at her. “Hello, my lady. How have you been?”

  “I’m doing well. I came to see how you are getting along.”

  His eyes lit up. “As much as I hated the sea, I love horses. They’re ever so good and calm. Mr. Brimley says I’m the best lad who’s ever worked under him.”

  “You’ve always been a hard worker, Davy, no matter what the task.”

  “I’m practicing my reading every night, Lady Caroline. There’s another boy who likes to read. We do it together.”

  “I’d enjoy if we had another lesson together soon,” she told him. “How about tomorrow? I’ll speak to Mr. Brimley about it.”

  “As long as it doesn’t interfere with my work in the stables, my lady,” Davy said seriously. “I can’t let Mr. Brimley down.” He paused. “I should get back to work now.”

  “Very well. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

  Caroline found the groom and arranged a time for Davy to meet with her.

  “The boy’s right bright, my lady,” Brimley told her. “He’s lucky to have you in his corner.”

  “Davy thinks quite a bit of you, too, Mr. Brimley,” she told the groom.

  Returning to the house, Caroline drew up a list of the types of books she wished to carry and the furniture she would use to create the small reading circles for patrons to use. She then wrote a new list of meetings that must occur. With solicitors to firm up the sale of the building. With Mr. Bellows to draw up contracts for not only ordering books from his publishing house but to exclusively sell Catherine’s newest book for a short time. With Madame Toufours to narrow down what merchandise would be carried at Evie’s. There was so much to do. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, though, Caroline felt invigorated.

  A maid knocked and entered, informing her that Stinch had arrived. Eagerly, she went downstairs and greeted the butler.

  “Have a seat,” she told him. “I haven’t written your reference yet and I want to tell you why.”

  He looked perplexed but sat, waiting for her to speak.

  “I’m going to open a bookstore, Stinch. I helped run my aunt’s bookstore in Boston and took over management of it upon her death.”

  “That’s quite impressive, Lady Caroline,” the butler said, still looking confused as to why she was sharing this information with him.

  “My bookstore is going to be quite large. It will also have a tearoom next door. I fear it will be too much for me to handle all of the day-to-day things. While I wish to be in charge of the accounts and ordering, I will need someone I trust to oversee the employees at both establishments. To draw up their schedules. To supervise them on the job.”

  She smiled. “I can think of no better person than you, Stinch, to take on this position. You are the most organized person of my acquaintance and I have known you from the cradle. Would you be interested in changing professions? It wouldn’t be quite what you’ve done in the past but it would require a great deal of responsibility and managing capabilities.”

  Stinch fairly glowed hearing her praise. “My lady, I can think of nothing I’d like to do more.”

  She asked how much he’d been paid, remembering that he’d mentioned their servants not receiving any wages during the last several months of her father’s life. He told her and she offered him a substantial increase, which he found more than acceptable. They spoke of some of his acquaintances that could possibly serve as book clerks and he suggested two of their former maids who hadn’t yet found work who would be excellent as servers in the tearoom.

  Kent arrived with a letter on a silver tray and Caroline opened it, hoping it was the news she expected. She read through the note and looked to Stinch.

  “My offer for the Mayfair property has been accepted. I will be signing the papers tomorrow morning,” she informed him. “I’ll give you the address. Speak to those you have in mind to employ and we can meet the day after tomorrow at nine o’clock so I may interview them.”

  Caroline waited until the door closed behind Stinch and collapsed into the nearest chair. Her vision would become a reality. She’d returned to London and found death and despair. Only days later, thanks to the new friends she’d made and the investors supporting her, she’d bought a large property and would open her own bookstore in the most fashionable part of town. Moreover, her childhood home had miraculously been restored to her by some unnamed angel.

  She should be ecstatic.

  “I am happy,” she stubbornly told herself.

  But Caroline knew she would be overjoyed—if the Earl of Mayfield kissed her again.

  Chapter Twelve

  Suddenly, Caroline realized she had no solicitor. All thoughts of kisses fled her mind as her heart began racing in panic. She left the parlor as the grandfather clock in the foyer chimed six o’clock. Rachel usually served dinner at seven. Quickly, Caroline went upstairs to retrieve her cloak. She would turn to the one man who could give her a solid recommendation.

  The Duke of Everton.

  Without telling anyone where she went, Caroline left the Merrick residence and briskly walked the two blocks to the duke’s residence. Barton, the butler, answered her knock.

  “Good evening, Lady Caroline. Her Grace did not tell me you were expected.” He waved her inside.

  “Actually, I’m here to see His Grace,” she said. “Is he available?”

  Ever the British butler, no surprise showed on the servant’s face. “His Grace is in his study. I’m sure he would make time for you, my lady. If you’ll follow me.”

  Barton led her to a room on the ground floor and knocked.

  “Come,” a deep voice said.

  The butler opened the door. “Your Grace, Lady Caroline Andrews is here to see you.”

  The duke rose. “Please, come in, Lady Caroline.”

  She did, feeling a bit of trepidation at the air of authority the duke projected. It still amazed her how much the St. Clair siblings resembled one another, with their coal black hair and lively green eyes.

  “Have a seat.” After she did, he seated himself behind his desk and said, “My duchess told me of the deal you struck with Mr. Bellows.” He gave her a smile. “A very clever move. Customers clamor for her books as it is. Having access to them before other booksellers do will certainly set your bookstore apart.”

  “Thank you, Your Grace. I have also arranged with the duchess’ modiste, Madame Toufours, to carry a selection of her goods on the premises. I’m hoping that, too, will distinguish Evie’s from other establishments.”

  She saw admiration in his eyes. “It’s nice to be in the company of such an astute businesswoman.”

  She acknowledged his compliment with a smile.

  “What brings you here?” he asked.

  “Things moved mor
e rapidly than I expected, and I find I’m in dire need of a solicitor. I’m closing on a Mayfair property tomorrow morning and lack representation. Evan had suggested I use his solicitor but he is one of my investors. I need a man I can trust that will solely represent my business interests.”

  “A wise move on your part. Who found the property?”

  “Mr. Sanderson, Luke’s solicitor. He also represents the seller and I don’t want to use him. It would be too great a conflict of interest in my opinion.”

  “I agree. And you’ve come to me for a recommendation.”

  “Yes, Your Grace. Catherine shared with me how shrewd you are in business matters. I believe a recommendation from you would suit my interests.”

  “Then I will suggest you use my own man. Higgins represents me in all matters, both business and personal. I am his sole client but since you have only the one enterprise, I think he would be willing to take you on as a client.”

  Caroline was stunned. “Are you certain, Your Grace?”

  “Absolutely. What time will the deed be signed over?”

  “In Mr. Sanderson’s office tomorrow morning at ten.”

  “Then if you will allow it, my coach will pick you up at hour before. That will give you time with Higgins so that you may ask him whatever you wish and fill him in on the details of the transaction and your other proposals.”

  “That would be agreeable,” she said, her spirits boosted.

  “Might I attend? I have no role as an investor but I’m sure you’ll wish for Higgins to see the property once it’s in your possession. I’d like to view it, as well.”

  “You are most welcomed to come,” she said with enthusiasm.

  “I have another suggestion. Matthew Proctor serves as my secretary and man of business. With the Season about to start, you will be busy attending many events, as well as trying to launch your bookstore. Would you like for me to loan Matthew to you?”

  “That won’t be necessary. An hour ago, I hired my father’s former butler to manage both the bookstore and tearoom. He will deal with the workers while I concentrate on inventory and managing the ledgers. We are both very organized individuals and will work well together.”

  The duke frowned. “That’s still a lot to accomplish while the Season begins.”

  “I don’t plan on attending that many events,” Caroline revealed. “I will go to some in order to get a sense of what women are reading and what they might purchase from Madame Toufours. Once the ton realizes I am a businesswoman, I doubt I’ll receive as many invitations to events. By then, I will have the information I need, though.”

  “But what of the social aspect of the Season?”

  “If you’re referring to my trying to find a husband, I won’t be placing myself on the Marriage Mart, Your Grace.”

  One eyebrow rose. “Why not?”

  “Although I have been gone from society for several years, people will still know I am the Earl of Templeton’s daughter. From what I’ve heard since I returned, my father had huge gambling debts and a less than savory reputation. I doubt any bachelors would seek my hand in marriage. Besides, I am already three and twenty. Most women my age are already wed.”

  “Catherine was the same age when we wed.”

  That startled her. “Truly?”

  “Yes. She cared for her ill father for many years. He was injured in a carriage accident. As you can see, we are most happy together and the proud parents of several children.”

  She shook her head. “The inheritance from my aunt will be used to establish my bookstore and tearoom, leaving me with little to live on. In order for it to become a success, I feel all of my waking hours will be devoted to my business. I won’t have time to consider a family, even if a gentleman did wish to marry me.”

  His emerald eyes searched hers. “If I may give you a last bit of advice, Lady Caroline, I would ask that you not close the door to love. I know I am a better man in every aspect—even in my business dealings—because I have Catherine and our children in my life. You, too, may find everything in your life enhanced if love comes your way.”

  She rose to her feet and he followed suit. “I will keep that in mind, Your Grace. Now, I must return to Rachel’s so I can send messages to my investors, notifying them of tomorrow’s closing.”

  The duke escorted her into the foyer. “Where is your maid?”

  “I came on my own.”

  “I suppose that’s a part of the independent streak you gained while in America. London is a large city and, unfortunately, it can be a dangerous one, especially when it grows dark. I will see you home.”

  “Caroline? I didn’t know you were here,” Catherine said as she came down the stairs.

  She went to her husband and he kissed her. Not the all-consuming kiss that Caroline had witnessed between them but a brief, tender one that bespoke of their love. A pang of jealousy hit her, knowing she would never have what this couple did.

  “I came to seek business advice from His Grace,” she said.

  “I’m going to escort Lady Caroline back to Merrick’s,” the duke said. “Could you ask Cook to hold dinner for half an hour?”

  “It’s an excellent night for a stroll. I’ll accompany you.” Looking to Barton, who’d appeared magically, she told the butler, “Please see that Cook is informed that we’ll dine a little later than usual.”

  “Yes, Your Grace.” He opened the door for them and the trio went outside.

  It only took a few minutes to reach the marquess’ townhome and Caroline thanked them both for seeing her home.

  “I’m looking forward to seeing your establishment, my lady,” the duke said.

  “And tea tomorrow,” Catherine added. “I hear that we’re going to be sampling items that will be served at Evie’s Bookstore and Tearoom.”

  “Yes, that’s what Luke has planned,” Caroline confirmed. “Until tomorrow.”

  *

  Luke had spent most of his day disappointed. He’d arrived at his sister’s in time for breakfast, with Alex in tow, assuming they would all ride to Sanderson’s office to sign the papers on the Mayfair property.

  Instead, he’d learned that Caroline would go separately from her three investors. She informed them that she would be meeting with her new solicitor on the way to Sanderson’s office, explaining how she didn’t want to entangle any of her interests with theirs by using one of their three solicitors. While Luke understood—and actually agreed it was a wise move—he’d wanted to ride across London with her for selfish reasons.

  All he’d thought about was their kiss in the bookstore. He’d been right in assuming she’d never been kissed. He’d also been correct in thinking that a passionate woman lay buried within her. Though inexperienced, she quickly caught on. He knew, with time, she would come to understand her sensual nature. Even now, he could still taste her. He wanted Caroline Andrews more than he’d ever wanted any other woman.

  Now, his job was to convince her that she needed him.

  Luke didn’t think she’d allow any more kisses, at least for now. She’d totally ignored him after the one they’d shared, though he’d been pleased when she allowed him to stay with her while she met with Morrow yesterday afternoon. He was still stumped as to who her benefactor might be. It would take someone with great wealth to sweep in and purchase an entire London townhome and all of its contents. The thought caused jealousy to flare within him.

  If kisses wouldn’t be allowed, he would have to reach Caroline through other means. Obviously, that meant her bookstore and tearoom. She was investing almost everything she’d inherited in these two businesses. If they succeeded, she would be happy. If Luke helped her thrive in this venture, it would be to their mutual benefit.

  Thus, his presence now with Mrs. Withers and Mrs. Baker.

  Luke had told the cooks what they prepared for today’s afternoon tea would be a preview of the teahouse’s menu.

  “Your audience will be my family. They all are lovers of good food and highly
critical. On top of that, you’ll be meeting Lady Caroline for the first time. I want her to know I made the right decision in hiring the both of you.”

  “We’ll do you proud, Lord Mayfield,” Mrs. Baker said.

  He’d already sampled a few items they’d baked this morning and found all to his liking but asked, “Could you make another chocolate roll and add walnuts to it? I’m fond of nuts and think others would like the addition, as well.”

  “Of course, my lord,” Mrs. Baker told him. “I’m a nut lover myself.”

  Mrs. Withers cleared her throat. “I know you said no sandwiches but I believe if Evie’s becomes as popular as I think it will, a full tea service will be desired. We should be prepared for that.”

  “That makes sense.” He consulted his pocket watch. “We have only an hour before all arrive, though.”

  “That’s not a problem, Lord Mayfield.” Mrs. Withers grinned. “Bessie and I have prepared enough sandwiches for a small army. Just in case you agreed to my proposal.”

  “You are too clever for me, Mrs. Withers.”

  The cook blushed at his praise and then her eyes grew wide. She and Mrs. Baker suddenly curtseyed, causing Luke to look over his shoulder. His grandmother stood there, coolly surveying the area.

  “Cor, I didn’t know you’d be coming. I thought you didn’t arrive in town for a few more days.”

  Luke went to embrace her but the dowager duchess held up a hand to stop him.

  “I don’t want flour all over my gown, Grandson.” She looked him up and down. “When did you start baking?”

  He glanced down and saw flour dusted all along the front of him. “I’ve been supervising. And tasting.”

  “The tasting part doesn’t surprise me,” she said dryly. “Why the other? Jeremy told me a horde is expected and that today’s tea is important, which is why I came early to speak with you.”