by GG Shalton
The maid fidgeted with her travel dress and looked away from Amelia. “Forgive me, Mistress. I am not supposed to speak of your husband with you. I could lose my position.”
Amelia closed her eyes trying to brace herself as she stood up from the bed. “That is ridiculous.”
The maid looked away and poured some water into a basin. “Would you like to wash up before you dress?”
Amelia walked to the basin and washed her face. She refused the maid’s help and brushed her long hair leaving it down on purpose to annoy anyone who thought it was not proper. She wanted to have some control of her own life.
Leaving her room, she climbed down the staircase welcoming any change of scenery. Locked up in the same room for several days had taken a toll on her.
Mr. Charles met her at the end of the stairs and smiled. “I wish you a safe journey, Mrs. Baird. I will miss you.”
Amelia stared at him and looked away without saying a word, not knowing who she could trust. She curiously looked around for her husband but did not see him. Maybe it was better this way.
Realism hit her when she walked outside. She was leaving. There were four carriages lined up waiting to depart. Two of them held guards for protection and one was for her luggage. Amelia boarded the middle carriage awaiting her journey to her new life.
Andrew watched Amelia leave from the window of an abandoned bedchamber on the third floor. Her long hair wrapped around her body as the wind blew. It was pure nonsense that she would wear her hair in such a fashion. He rolled his eyes in annoyance and continued watching her carriage pull away. Her departure should help him get her out of his mind. She consumed his thoughts, and he needed a diversion to keep his mind focused.
A maid stood in the doorway. “Mr. Baird, she has departed.”
Andrew continued looking out the window, watching the carriage get smaller as it pulled away. Without looking at the maid he spoke, “Thank you. If you will tell the cook that I plan to eat out tonight.”
The maid gave a curtsey. “As you wish.”
Amelia traveled most of the day stopping at an inn to rest that night. They would arrive mid-morning the following day. Amelia was escorted to her room by Bull who insisted she take a tray to her room and not indulge in the dining room with the staff. Amelia accepted his direction and stayed in her room. She contemplated escape as this would probably be her best opportunity, but her stomach sickness would not permit her to imagine the consequences. She was trapped for now and would not risk her child’s future. After she ate some bland tasting soup, she read a book provided by the innkeeper’s wife. It was nice to be entertained even if it was only a book.
The next day she awoke early and was sick again before consuming her breakfast. The carriage ride was bumpier, and the roads were miserable. They reached the cottage late in the afternoon due to having to stop several times for Amelia to relieve herself. She could only imagine the tongues wagging with complaints among the men.
The stone cottage was bigger than Amelia imagined. Greenery ran up the sides running ragged over the stones. There were two floors and a few gardens that welcomed her eye. Her husband had promised her that she could take a walk a day, and she looked forward to sitting outside. The men carried her trunk to a bedroom on the landing. A few newly-hired servants welcomed her. Bull met with them privately giving them explicit instructions from Andrew.
Amelia enjoyed her newfound freedom. She was no longer locked in her room but was allowed access to the small library and study. She dined in the dining room alone as the men took to town to eat their dinner. She didn’t mind that she was alone. It was better than a tray in her room.
The men left the next day and Amelia was left with only two guards that were local from the area. There were two footmen and three maids—more than enough in Amelia’s opinion. She walked around the estate and took in the fresh air. Mrs. Palmer was the main housekeeper and had a soft nature. Amelia liked her and asked her to purchase some paper and paints. She gave her a few coins she had hidden in one of her dresses and Mrs. Palmer obliged her. Painting for Amelia was her escape and she spent most of her days in the garden. A walk a day turned into hours in the garden. No one questioned her time spent outdoors.
Andrew left the chamber and found Brian in the dining room with a few of his men. The light banter ceased as Andrew entered with a scowl on his face. He filled his plate with some eggs and took a seat. The silence felt louder than a tavern after a festival. Andrew looked up sizing up his companions. “What is on our schedule today?”
The men looked at Brian to answer as he was like a brother to Andrew and well respected. They knew Andrew’s calm demeanor could be a facade. After all, his wife was found with another man and everyone knew it. His ruthless reputation cowered when it came to his wife and some were talking about it. It was only a matter of time before he would punish someone. Only Brian could speak to him as an equal without fear of retribution.
Brian cleared his throat. “Martin says Henry’s obtained his payment and is ready to make a deal. John and a few of the others took off to the docks to meet with him. A few of his warehouses were part of the deal and I thought we could check them out. One of the properties includes a small opera house mostly for locals.” Andrew nodded as he took a bite of his eggs. Brian leaned toward him and whispered, “I can take care of business today if you would rather rest.”
Andrew narrowed his eyes. “What do you mean?”
Brian sighed exhaustedly. “Andrew, you look awful. I bet you didn’t sleep at all last night.”
Andrew swished his hand. “Nonsense. I am fine. I will be ready within the hour.” He got up from the table and went to freshen up in his room.
Andrew entered the Tree Lounge taking in the familiar scent of sweat and liquor. It was bustling with customers which always gave him a bit of satisfaction. He straightened his jacket and headed to his table in the back. Jean had it available for him just in case he stopped by. He had just finished up some collections and needed to unwind hoping to keep his mind from wandering. His night had been successful as he recovered a few loans with interest and some property that was put up for collateral. He usually enjoyed attending the high roller collection meetings. It normally involved spoiled aristocrats that were out of their league displaying their pompous attitudes—always thinking they were better than the common man and referring to themselves as betters. The tables had turned and now Andrew’s name was no longer associated with criminals, but business elite. Although his methods had been questioned, he was able to stay out of jail. His businesses were legal although questionable in certain circles.
Jean was working and came to greet him. Andrew’s mood was solemn, and he gave her a guarded grin hoping she would not bring up any questions about his wife.
“What will it be, boys?” She smiled as a waitress came over to take their order. Jean patted Andrew on the shoulder. “May we speak privately? In the office?”
Andrew stood up reluctantly and headed to the back office. Jean lit a lantern and closed the door behind them. “Andrew, you look horrible. I am worried for you.” She sat down motioning him to take the seat across from her.
Andrew sat down. “Thank you for the compliment.” He tried to make light of the conversation.
He saw her purse her lips together and leaned back in his chair.
She crinkled her forehead. “What is this I hear about Amelia? You sent her away to have your baby?”
He flexed his jaw in anger. “I don’t wish to talk to you about my wife.” He let out a sigh and looked away. “Now, let’s talk business. Brian wants to add on to the tavern by taking out the bakery next door.”
Jean shook her head. “Andrew, I am not just your employee. I am your friend. Since we were kids, I have watched over you. While others feared you, I did not… Don’t take this burden by yourself. Talk to me.”
Andrew looked down and paused in silence. “What do you want me to say? You were right about her. I never knew her at all!”
Jean shook her head and reached her hand out, touching his arm. “It’s not about me being right. Did she tell you why she left with that man? I didn’t take her as the type to run away. There had to be a reason why she would risk losing you.”
Andrew shrugged his shoulders as his nostrils flared. “The lass is a selfish whore. I was good to her and tried so hard to gain her affection. I never cared about anyone like I cared for her. I am just so angry… I feel like punching something.”
Jean took a deep breath. “Calm down! Are you sure she didn’t give you some explanation that you could understand?”
Andrew chewed on his fingernail thinking about her. “It’s hard to tell with all her deceptions. She gave some ridiculous reason.” He laughed mockingly, “She said no one has ever loved her. Can you believe that? Supposedly, the petty ruffian is the only person who ever told her those words.”
Andrew shook his head. “He lied to her and told her that her mother was really alive, and she had to leave me to go see her. Now she comes back pregnant and how am I to know if it’s mine?”
Jean closed her eyes. “Was she an innocent when you married her?”
Andrew drew the lines on his forehead together then nodded his head.
Jean looked at him with compassion. “Andrew, I believe this is your child and you must take responsibility for the child and the mother. You know how hard it is to grow up without a parent. I believe Amelia is a broken young woman who feels betrayed by those who should love her. She craves for someone to love her and doesn’t feel that from you. Being nice to someone is not the same thing as loving them. I know you provided for her, but did you love her?”
Andrew looked down at his lap. “What difference does it make? Love is a weak emotion and now I can’t stand to look at her.”
Jean narrowed her eyes studying him. “You’re hurting, but so is she. Can you imagine how scared she must be all alone with the possibility of having her baby taken away from her? You abandoned her when you were supposed to be her protector. You must forgive her. I don’t believe she was intimate with this other man. He was a con artist that tricked a naïve young woman. Andrew, don’t live the rest of your life hating her. Give yourself a chance to be happy.”
Andrew stood up dismissing her. “I can’t discuss this with you. This is my business. My life. I don’t wish to speak of it ever again.” He turned around and walked out the door.
Chapter 20
After a few months, Amelia settled into her new life. She was friendly with the housekeeping staff keeping close guard of her secrets. The friendlier she was—the less they watched her. Her painting occupied most her afternoons, not much different than her time spent in the country as a child.
One day she felt the ground rumble and looked up startled to see a floppy-eared dog attacking her with kisses. Amelia laughed out loud and embraced the furry creature. A few moments later she heard a horse and saw a man jump off. “Forgive me, Miss. Beans! Stop licking the young woman!”
Amelia smiled enjoying the welcome. “It’s okay. I fancy animals. You precious boy!”
A stocky man took the dog from Amelia and two more horses came up beside them. A young woman with dark hair dismounted and her companion did as well.
The woman petted the dog. “Forgive us for intruding on your privacy. We didn’t realize anyone was staying at the cottage and usually don’t come up this far on our rides.”
Amelia held up her hand. “It’s quite all right. I enjoy the company.”
The young woman stood beside her companion. “My name is Mrs. Brooks, but please call me Judith. This is my husband, Sam Brooks and his brother Joseph.”
Amelia petted the dog. “My name is Amelia, and we recently moved to the cottage.”
The men bowed. Sam looked at Amelia’s painting before she could hide it. “Do you like painting? That is a great portrait of the landscape.”
Amelia blushed at the compliment. “I suppose I do like to paint a little.”
Judith slanted her head studying the painting. “You have a lot of talent and I would love to see more of your work. Do you accept visitors?”
Amelia’s smile faded, and a panicky feeling overcame her. “Forgive me. I need to be on my way at once.”
Judith touched her arm. “No, please forgive me. I shouldn’t have tried to impose on you.”
Amelia was embarrassed at her reaction to a requested visit. The truth is that she longed to have a friend. “Please, I would love for you to come to my home. It’s just that I am not allowed any visitors.” Not able to make eye contact due to the absurdity of her statement, she wrung her hands looking away.
Judith’s eyes widened. “Are you a servant? We apologize we thought you were the mistress of this manor.”
Amelia’s thoughts were interrupted by the housekeeper. “Mrs. Baird? Your lunch is prepared.” Amelia turned around. “I will be there in a moment.” The housekeeper waited a few seconds and then walked away.
Sam’s face went white. “Did she call you, Mrs. Baird?”
Amelia looked away trying to mask her apprehension. “Yes, my name is Amelia Baird.”
Sam looked at Joseph and he rubbed his lips together. “Are you related to Andrew Baird?”
Amelia was silent pausing before she spoke. “Yes, he is my husband.”
Their demeanor changed instantly. Sam motioned for Joseph meeting his eyes with a look of understanding. Judith looked confused as her husband put his hand on her back moving her to the horses. “We must get back. Thank you for helping us with our dog.”
The men went to mount and Amelia spoke for the first time. “Judith, please if you could do me one favor?” Judith looked back at Sam who shook his head. He lifted Judith up on her saddle. Amelia walked beside her. “Please, if you could wait one moment. I have a letter that I need mailed. I would be indebted to your kindness.”
Judith looked back at her husband and brother-in-law who were already walking their horses away from them. Judith looked back and whispered, “Meet me here same time tomorrow and I will take your letter.”
Amelia closed her eyes and mouthed the words: “Thank you.”
She went inside quickly to eat lunch as the housekeeper was already suspicious. Upon entering the home, Amelia could see the housekeeper’s mouth formed into a straight line of disapproval. “Mrs. Baird, I am under strict orders that you are to have no visitors.”
Amelia looked back at the housekeeper irritated at being reprimanded by a servant. “Mrs. Palmer, please remember your place. They were not visitors, but lost neighbors. I will not be rude.”
The housekeeper sighed and walked away. Amelia told the cook she would take a tray to her room. She wanted a chance to check on the letters hidden for Sally and Rachel. She needed to find the information that Billy knew about her mother. Sally was her only hope. If her mother was alive, perhaps she could find her.
Amelia went for a walk in the gardens the next day before lunch hoping that Judith would keep her word. She concealed the letters under her skirt. Amelia avoided Mrs. Palmer by sneaking out the study doors and going around the back of the house. Hopefully she would not realize the ruse. Amelia had told the staff she was under the weather and not painting in the garden that day.
She waited near the trees and finally heard a horse come closer as she came out of hiding. True to her word, Judith rode alone and smiled when seeing Amelia. Judith stayed on her horse stopping near Amelia. “I was hoping I would see you. I can’t stay long. Sam would kill me if he knew I was here.”
Amelia nodded her head handing her the letters. “I can’t send them from here. If they could send a letter back to you to respond, I would be grateful.”
Judith b
it her bottom lip. “I will see what I can do.” She looked at the letters and tucked them into her bag. She grabbed the reins and looked back at Amelia. “Sam told me about your husband. Talking with you makes me wonder if it could be true? Are you in danger?”
Amelia looked down at the ground. Not wanting to confide in a stranger of her circumstances, she hid her feelings. “I am well and thank you again for your help.”
Judith looked at her for a few seconds. “I wish you well, Amelia. If I receive a response, I will find you.”
Chapter 21
Amelia’s feet hurt, and she found it difficult to walk. It had been months since she gave the letters to Judith. There was still no reply from Sally or Rachel. Her feet were swelling, and her doctor warned her to keep to her bed. It was difficult to lie down all day. She was bored, and there were only so many books she could read. Sleeping was difficult as she couldn’t get comfortable. The staff tried to appease her but only made her more miserable. It has been several months since she saw Andrew, almost forgetting she was married. Only his guards came a few times to check on the status of the manor and to give Mrs. Palmer money for the household.
She missed Mr. Charles and his amusing stories. Hopefully he was doing well. She worried that Andrew might take her transgressions out on him. Mr. Charles was like the father she never had, and Andrew may not believe he had no part in her deception. Her thoughts turned to Beatrice and Alfred. One of the guards mentioned their marriage when he didn’t realize that Amelia was listening. There was some self-satisfaction that her weeks of efforts to encourage their courting had paid off. At least some people married for love and could live happily. Andrew tried to control every aspect of her life taking away her friendships and spying on her with his paid help.
