She pushed herself up to a sitting position. “Oh dear, I must have fallen asleep.”
“Yes, Ma’am. You were mumbling in your sleep. I’m sorry if I frightened you.”
“No, not at all. Thank you, Rigal.”
Emily got up and walked into her bedroom. She poured water into the basin and splashed some on her face. She reached for the towel and patted her skin dry before returning to the sitting room.
“Is there anything else you need?” Rigal asked. “Shall I brush out your hair?”
“No, not now. I’ll do it later.”
“Very good, Ma’am. I will return soon to help you undress.”
Emily nodded and watched Rigal leave the room. She was alone, again. She never used to mind being alone, but those times had been of her own choosing. This was different, more like exile than enjoying a peaceful moment to herself. What she wouldn’t give to see Ethan walk through her door.
“I will win you back, Ethan,” she whispered as she picked up the dinner fork and began to eat.
***
Ethan stood and shook hands with the solicitor. “Thank you. Please have the papers drawn up immediately.
“Yes, of course, Mr. Richardson. They will be ready for your signature tomorrow afternoon.”
Ethan nodded, turned on his heels and walked out. He’d been in London for the past week taking care of his business affairs and meeting with his solicitor. The day after next, he would head north for the next part of his journey.
Chapter 17
Rigal slipped the last flower blossom into the curl on the side of Emily’s face. “There. You look beautiful, Ma’am.”
Emily glanced at her reflection in the mirror. Rigal had outdone herself. Her hair was piled up with curls cascading down her neck and wispy curls surrounding her face.
“Thank you, Rigal. It’s lovely.”
The lady’s maid nodded in appreciation. “I have selected your ice blue silk for dinner this evening with Lady Tisbury. I hope you approve.”
“Yes, it’s perfect, but you must call me Emily. I would prefer it.”
“Yes, Ma’am…I mean Emily.”
When she finished dressing, Emily slipped on her gloves and cloak and descended the stairs. She had butterflies in her stomach. It wasn’t like she hadn’t been to Lady Tisbury’s home before, but this was the first time she would go now that she was a married woman. She wished that Ethan was here to accompany her, but he still had not returned.
She was doing her best to do as Mia had suggested. If she wanted Ethan to fall back in love with her, then she must become a more mature version of the woman he had fallen in love with. She must act like the mistress of the manor by handling the household affairs, inviting ladies to tea and accepting dinner engagements whether Ethan was by her side or not. The last thing she should do is hide away in the mansion.
Emily thought of her mother and how effortlessly she ran the Stanton household. If she could even be half that good, maybe it would show Ethan a whole new side of her. At least that was what she hoped.
Gileson held the door open for her and Emily walked out into the cool night air. The driver helped her into the coach and off they went down the drive. In less than an hour, they stopped in front of the Tisbury’s grand home. It was even more impressive than Ethan’s home and Emily admired it with a new appreciation.
The driver hopped down and opened the door and offered her a hand while she stepped down.
The butler had the door open for her and Emily left her cloak with him.
Lady Tisbury greeted her in grand foyer. “Emily, dear. How wonderful to see you again. So happy you could join us for dinner.”
Emily curtsied. “Thank you for your kind invitation, Lady Tisbury. I am delighted to be here.”
The older woman linked her arm with Emily’s. “Nonsense, you are family now and please call me Aunt Mary. We can leave the formality for the balls.”
Emily smiled and instantly felt welcomed. “Thank you, Lady, I mean Aunt Mary.”
“Come, the men are waiting.”
“Men? Is Ethan here too?”
Mary looked at Emily. “No, he’s not here. I meant Mr. John Richardson and Lord Tisbury. Isn’t Ethan away on business?”
“Yes, he is. Sorry, I misunderstood you.”
“Not to worry, dear. I’m sure he’ll be home soon.”
“That would be wonderful. I miss him.”
Mary patted Emily’s hand. “Come, everyone is waiting.”
Emily plastered on a smile and walked into the parlor with Mary. The Richardsons were there—John, Sarah and Ethan’s younger sister, Hannah—along with Lord Albert Tisbury.
Ethan’s mother Sarah greeted Emily with a kiss on the cheek. “Hello, my dear. So good to see you.”
Emily hugged her mother-in-law. “Good to see you too. I trust that you are well?”
“Indeed I am, thank you.”
John was next to say hello. “Emily, you look as beautiful as ever. My son is a very lucky man.”
Emily felt herself blush at the compliment, more so because she wasn’t sure that Ethan felt that way anymore. “Thank you. That is so kind of you to say.”
“Nonsense, it’s the truth.”
Emily curtsied to Lord Tisbury. “A pleasure to see you again, Lord Tisbury.”
“Indeed, but the pleasure is all mine,” he replied with a twinkle in his eye.
Emily next walked over to 15-year-old Hannah and hugged the young girl. “Hello, Hannah. So good to see you again.”
Within moments of Emily’s arrival, the tinkling of the bell announced that dinner was served and everyone made their way into the dining room. Emily was seated between John and Sarah. She hoped they wouldn’t ask too many questions about Ethan. The last thing she wanted was for anyone to know that Ethan had left her with barely a word of when he would return.
Before the first course was served, another guest wandered into the dining room. “Good evening, all,” Colby said. He gave a short bow and made his way to the table.
“Colby, you’re here. How delightful. I wasn’t sure you would be feeling up to it tonight,” Mary said, beaming at her son.
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world, Mother. It’s not very often that I see Ethan’s lovely wife, and of course, the very beautiful, Miss Hannah.”
Emily watched as a smile lit up Hannah’s face especially when Colby took the seat next to the young girl.
The maids began bringing in the food and conversation was lively around the table. The men spoke of politics and the ladies gossiped about the latest scandal involving a high-ranking gentlemen and a scullery maid.
With a lull in the conversation, John turned toward Emily. “How do you like your new home?”
“It’s truly beautiful. I’m learning my way around the house and the grounds while Ethan is away, but I’ll be much happier when my husband returns.”
“When is he returning?”
Emily paused before answering. She didn’t want anyone to know that she had no idea when her husband would be home or if he’d ever come back to her. “Ethan wasn’t sure how long he would be gone on this trip.”
John nodded. “Well, there’s one thing I know about my son and, that is, he is very thorough in everything he does, but most especially in his business dealings. I’m sure he’ll send a post when he knows more.”
“Yes, I’m hoping to hear from him soon.”
Emily looked across the table. “Colby, are you feeling better now?”
Colby nodded. “Yes, I am and I have your husband to thank for that.”
“He told me of your injury. I was so sorry that you had to endure that though.”
A pained look reflected in Colby’s eyes. “No matter. It’s over and done with. When Ethan returns, I’ll ride out to the house to see him and thank him properly.”
“I’m sure he’ll like that very much,” Emily said.
When the dinner was nearly finished, Hannah spoke. “Emily, will you sing for u
s tonight?”
Emily wiped her mouth on her napkin and smiled at Hannah. “I’d love to, but only on one condition.”
A frown creased Hannah’s face. “What is it?”
“Well, that you sing with me, of course.”
Hannah looked down at her lap and her voice was barely a whisper. “But, I don’t sing or play as well as you do.”
“I’ve been looking for a new tutor for Hannah since her governess left our employ earlier this year, but so far I’ve not found anyone suitable,” Sarah said.
Emily glanced at Sarah. “Perhaps then, with your permission of course, you would consider letting Hannah come and stay with me for a while. I would be delighted to help her with her lessons. Practice is all she needs and she’ll be singing like the nightingale.”
Hannah’s face brightened and she turned toward her mother. “May I, Mama?”
“Emily, I’m sure you must be busy setting up your new household without the added burden of taking on Hannah’s lessons too?”
“No, not at all. It’s no burden at all. It will be delightful to have Hannah come stay for a visit.”
Sarah smiled. “I believe that settles it then.” She looked at her daughter. “Hannah, we can have your trunk packed this evening and you can be on your way tomorrow. How does that sound?”
Hannah pushed back her chair, went around the table and hugged her mother. “Thank you, Mama.” She turned to Emily. “Are you ready?”
Emily pushed back her chair from the table. “Lead the way.”
On the way into the parlor Emily and Hannah conferred about which duet they would sing. It took some convincing, but Hannah finally agreed to sing with Emily.
“Don’t worry. You’ll do fine. I have the utmost faith in you,” Emily said.
“Please don’t let me embarrass myself.”
Emily grabbed Hannah’s hand. “I’ll be there right next to you.”
“Thank you, Emily.”
“It’s my pleasure, Hannah.”
When everyone was seated around the piano, Emily began playing. She let Hannah take the lead on the song, but when she stumbled a bit, she was quick to join in as if it had been part of their plan all along.
Enthusiastic applause let Hannah know that she had done well. Emily whispered in her ear. “Well done, Hannah. Well done.”
The young girl stood up and curtsied for the group and Emily joined in the clapping as well.
With the evening drawing to a close, Emily said her goodbyes and told Hannah that she would see her tomorrow.
Once inside her own coach, she settled back into the cushions. She was pleased that she had managed to get through her first social engagement without her husband by her side. Yes, she could do this and when he returned, she hoped that he would see a different woman standing before him. At least that was her wish.
Chapter 18
The next morning a coach drove up the Richardson’s drive. Hannah was so excited to be visiting that she didn’t wait for the driver to help her out. She bounded out of the carriage and up the stairs.
“Welcome, Miss Hannah,” Gileson said opening the door.
“Morning, Gileson. Do you know where Mrs. Richardson is?”
“Yes, she’s in the parlor.”
Hannah scampered away. “Thanks, Gileson,” she said over her shoulder.
She found Emily sitting at the piano. “Hi Emily, I’m here.”
Emily turned around and rose to greet the young woman with a welcoming smile. “Good morning, Hannah. I’m so happy that you’ve come,” she said hugging her.
“Me too. I was so excited that I hardly slept a wink last night. The coach ride seemed to be unduly long, but I’m here now.”
“Would you care for some tea and refreshments?”
“Oh yes, I hardly touched a bite before setting off.”
Emily walked over to the table and rang the silver bell.
The housekeeper appeared within minutes. “Yes, Ma’am. Do you require something,” Mrs. Keats asked.
“Please bring us some tea and refreshments.”
“Of course. Would you like them here or the dining room?”
Emily glanced at Hannah.
“Here will be good,” Hannah said.
The housekeeper nodded and left to the room.
“So, what would you like to do first?” Emily asked.
Hannah untied the ribbons on her bonnet and removed her gloves. She left them on the couch along with her cloak. “Shall we practice playing while we wait for tea?”
Emily chuckled. “Hannah, slow down. You’ll be staying here for a few weeks yet. No need to rush through things. Relax a moment and take the time to eat a little something and enjoy your tea.”
Hannah nodded. “Of course. I was just so excited and didn’t want to waste a moment of your time.”
“You are not wasting my time. We’ll be spending lots of time together. I want this to be a fun visit for you.”
“I know I’ll have a good time. I’ve always loved to visit Ethan when he’s staying in the country.”
“Do you visit him often out here?” Emily asked.
“Yes, but it has been only with Mama and Papa. This is the first time they have let me come by myself and I have you to thank for that.”
“Well, I plan to make sure it’s the best visit ever.”
Mrs. Keats came into the room carrying the tray of tea and refreshments and left it on the table. “Will there be anything else, Mrs. Richardson?”
Emily shook her head. “Thank you, Mrs. Keats. That will be all for now.”
Emily turned to Hannah. “Come and sit. Let’s get some nourishment into you before we begin your lesson.”
***
Connor Preston stormed into the gambling house and headed straight for the office located at the rear of the building. The main hall was still teeming with patrons and there were various amounts of coins sitting in the center of the occupied tables. Even in the light of day, gambling was alive and well with men from all walks of life trying their luck at cards.
Connor gave a sharp rap on the door, but didn’t wait for an answer before he barged inside.
The owner was sitting at his desk counting various piles of coin in front of him. He looked up and gave Connor a hard glare. “A little early for the likes of you, isn’t it?”
“How could you let that happen?” Connor asked without any preamble.
“What are you talking about?”
“You know perfectly well what brings me here. Answer my question,” Connor said. He banged his fist on the desk and a few of the coins jumped.
The owner narrowed his eyes. “Watch yourself. I won’t tell you again.”
Connor forced himself to calm down and took a seat in front of the desk, waiting for an explanation.
“Better. Now tell me, what are you doing here?”
Connor leaned forward. “Colby Tisbury. That name ring a bell?”
“Oh, that one. Yes, I do recall something about him.”
“Yes, that one. Why did you let it go so far? A duel? Was that really necessary?”
“Listen, I’m not anyone’s sitter. I was preoccupied when he was here last and didn’t see them leave. From what I hear, it was Tisbury who insisted on the duel, the damn fool.”
“That duel put an end to a deal that could have been lucrative for both of us. Tisbury barely survived. You understand what that means?”
The owner sat back in his chair and rubbed his hands together. His lips curved up in a sinister grin. “Seems to me as if you’ll need to find another patsy to grace my establishment.”
Connor rose from his seat, his anger threatening to boil over. “You owe me my finder’s fee,” he said extending his hand.
The owner counted out five gold coins and pushed them across the table to Connor.
Connor quickly pocketed them. “This is not our agreed upon price.”
The owner went back to counting the stash of money in front of him. “Next time bring
me someone who’ll stick around and not go off on some foolhardy duel.”
There was nothing more Connor could do. He knew he was lucky to get any coin at all. “I’ll be back,” he said as he threw open the door and strode out without a backward glance.
“Looking forward to it,” the owner said with a chuckle to his receding back.
***
Colby Tisbury dressed slowly, more to avoid the meeting with his father for as long as possible, than for any fastidious habit he had. He was feeling stronger every day and in a few more weeks should be back to full health, but there was something pressing he must do now. He needed to apologize to his father, but Lord Tisbury was not an easy man to talk to, especially since he had expressed his disapproval of Colby’s gambling on so many other occasions. Colby had ignored him and he had failed to listen to reason, but it was time to change things. It was time to abandon his wild and dangerous ways.
Being shot had jarred him to his core. He had to admit that his gambling had been out of control for months before the duel, but he’d never thought through the consequences of gambling with such dangerous men. Riding out to face his opponent that fateful morning had unnerved him more than he had wanted to admit, but there was nothing he could do. He’d been a fool and was the one who had insisted on the duel to settle his debt. He had to follow through. Honor demanded it. A man without honor was unthinkable and Colby preferred to take his chances with the pistol.
He slipped on his jacket and left his bedchamber in search of his father. It didn’t take long and he found Lord Tisbury in his study examining a stack of papers on his desk. “Sir, may I have a word?”
Lord Tisbury looked up. He was a stern man with ice blue eyes that held little warmth. He was nearly as tall as Colby and his white hair and impeccable wardrobe gave him a most distinguished look. He didn’t look happy to be interrupted and especially not by his wayward son.
“I’m looking over the accounts. What is this about?”
“If I may have a moment of your time, I would appreciate it.”
Lord Tisbury put the document down that he’d been reading and leaned back in his chair. “I’m listening.”
Age of Innocence Boxed Set (Books 1-3) Page 13
