Colby took a deep breath to steel himself from the barrage of words he knew would come his way. “May I sit?”
“Of course.”
“Father, first I cannot tell you how sorry I am for having embarrassed you these past months with my behavior and for bringing shame down upon the family.”
“Colby, we’ve had this conversation before. I’m busy.”
“I know, but this time is different I assure you.”
Lord Tisbury steepled his hands and waited for his son to continue. “Go on.”
“I know that I have been out of control, but I thought I was invincible. It was fool hardy, of course, but I believed that any day now my luck would change and I’d win back all the coin I had lost.”
“Why did you feel the need for more coin? I have never denied you anything and your allowance is more than generous.”
Colby nodded. “I know, but it wasn’t the coin that kept me going back to the gambling parlors. It was more the thrill of it all.”
“The thrill? I don’t understand what you mean.”
Colby stood up and started to pace his father’s office. “I can’t explain it any better, but what I can tell you is that I’ve gotten my fill of thrills to last the rest of my life. Getting shot will do that and I’m here to tell you that I’ve changed.”
Lord Tisbury nodded, but didn’t say anything.
Colby stopped his pacing and faced his father. “Sir, I ask for your forgiveness and please believe me when I say that my gambling days are over.”
He stared at his father, trying to gauge his emotions. He had never been a demonstrative man, even in Colby’s childhood, but just this once he wanted his father’s approval.
Silence.
It seemed an eternity before Lord Tisbury spoke. “I see. Now if you will excuse me, I have work to do.”
It wasn’t the reaction that Colby had hoped for, but at least his father did not berate him today. That was progress. His father was not one to display his emotions so for him to sit long enough to listen was the first step in the right direction.
Colby nodded. “Of course. If I may be of service to you, please let me know.”
“The solicitor is coming at 3:00PM.”
This was the first time in a long time his father had asked him to sit in on a business meeting. Perhaps there was hope for a father/son reconciliation yet.
“I shall see you then, sir.”
Colby turned and left the office. Once out in the hallway, he let out a pent up breath. He didn’t realize that he was holding it. All he knew was that he’d made it through the most difficult conversation of his life. Perhaps with time, it would be possible to win back his father’s trust. He wanted that more than anything and he vowed to do everything he could to make that happen.
Now it was time to follow through on his promise to make amends. His next step was to apologize to his mother. She had stood by him through all of this, and more than anyone else, she deserved to hear his apology. He squared his shoulders and went in search of Lady Tisbury.
He found her in the sunroom sitting at her desk writing out correspondence. He walked in and addressed her. “Mother, may I have a moment?”
Mary looked up and smiled at her son. “Of course. What can I do for you?”
“You can do nothing for me. It’s up to me to do something for you.”
“Oh?”
He took his mother’s hand, raised it to his lips and kissed it. “Mother, I know that I have deeply disappointed you of late.”
“Colby…”
“No, please let me finish. You have been my loving mother through all of this nasty business concerning my gambling. I was out of control. I know that now and vow to you that I am done with it all. I came to ask for your forgiveness.”
Mary stood up and hugged her son fiercely. “Oh, Colby. I don’t know what I would have done if you had died. I was out of my mind with worry. Both your father and I held your bedside vigil praying for you recovery.”
“Father? He was at my bedside?”
“Of course, dear. He may not wear his emotions on his sleeve, but you are his son and heir and he has been so distraught over everything. He made the doctor stay day and night during those first days after you were shot. I could not convince him to leave your bedside until the doctor finally told him you would survive.”
Colby was stunned. He had no recollection of the time right after he was shot, and by the time he was conscious again only his mother was at his side.
“Mother, I had no idea. I cannot tell you how sorry I am for putting you both through such an ordeal.”
She stepped back. “Well, it is over now and of course, I forgive you. You are my son and I love you no matter what, but…”
“I know and promise you both that there will be no more instances for either of you to worry in the future. I am done with the gambling parlors.”
“That is most cherished news. I’m sure your father will be pleased as well.”
Colby nodded. “Yes, I have already spoken to him. I will do whatever it takes to make up for my past behavior. I am ashamed that I let it go on for so long.”
Mary sat down again. “I fear that I did not understand your taste for gambling, but I am more than relieved to hear that you have given it up.”
“There’s no need for you to worry, Mother. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a few errands to do before I meet the solicitor with Father this afternoon.”
A smile spread on Mary’s face. “Of course, dear. I shall see you at dinner.”
He leaned down and kissed his mother’s cheek before taking his leave.
Chapter 19
Ethan sat in the tavern waiting for his meal. He’d been in London for a week and tomorrow would set out to visit the tenant farmers on Lord Tisbury’s vast estate. He had told his uncle that he would be happy to do this, especially since Colby was still recovering. He didn’t mind and rather enjoyed catching up with the tenants especially since it had been a few years since the last time he saw them.
He glanced across the room and stopped at a couple that only had eyes for each other. They looked so happy and in love and it made his heart lurch. It was the very thing he craved for himself, but what was he doing roaming the countryside while his bride was alone? He’d let his ego carry his emotions and now he regretted his hasty departure. Emily had hurt him with her words, there was no denying that, but he was the one letting the chasm continue to grow between them. She had wanted to talk to him the evening before he left, but he never gave her a chance. That had been a mistake. He should have listened and not left her to fend for herself in an unfamiliar house.
“Here you are, sir,” the serving girl said, putting a bowl of steaming stew in front of him.
“Thank you.”
“Will there be anything else?”
Ethan shook his head. “No, that will be all.” He watched her walk away as she chatted with other customers. A wave of loneliness hit him like nothing he’d ever experienced before. There was a hole in his heart that only one woman could fill and he had shunned her.
Now he was sorry that he’d agreed to visit the tenants because it would keep him away from Emily for at least another ten days. So much wasted time. What would he find when he returned? Would his wife reject him again?
He picked up his spoon and started to eat his stew, all the while, his mind was reeling with his own foolishness. They could be happy together. He was sure of it and he planned to conclude his business as quickly as possible. He had to get home and help make things right.
***
The last note played and Emily clapped. “Hannah, that was wonderful.”
Hannah smiled. “Thank you, but it’s all because of you.”
Emily shook her head. “No, it’s all because of your hard work. Practicing every day is the key and you have tackled that with vigor. I’m so proud of you. Wait until your parents hear you play again.”
Hannah stood and stretched. “Shall we take a wa
lk? It’s a beautiful day out.”
“Yes, that would be lovely. Would you go find Rigal and ask her to fetch our bonnets and gloves?”
Hannah nodded and went in search of the lady’s maid.
Emily watched her scamper out of the room. Ethan’s sister was such a delight to have around. The big house did not seem so empty and Hannah helped ease her own loneliness. She was growing fonder of the young girl every day. She would have to ask Ethan if she could visit more often.
Within moments, Hannah returned with her bonnet and gloves. “Here you are.”
Emily reached for them. “Thank you. So, where would you like to walk today?” she asked as she tied the ribbons of her bonnet under her chin.
“Can we go to the stables? I want to visit my horse,” Hannah said.
“Your horse? You have a horse here?”
“Oh, yes. Ethan bought her for me a few years ago. Her name is Belle. Would you like to see her?”
“Of course, lead the way.”
“Wait until you see her. She’s so pretty.”
The two young women walked arm-in arm down the path to the stables. The day was unseasonably warm and it was a pleasant change from the chilly weather that had kept them indoors for the past week.
Emily marveled at the gardens that graced the estate. The roses were nearly gone, but a slight scent lingered in the air. Her mother would love the gardens here and she planned to invite her to spend some time here with her after the next Season in London. That is, of course, if she was still here.
No, I mustn’t think like this. I will win Ethan’s love again. I will not give up until I do.
She shook her head to banish those thoughts. She didn’t want to spoil their walk with her melancholy.
“Are you well?” Hannah asked. “You look pale.”
Emily patted her hand. “I am well. Do not worry about me. I fear that I’ve been thinking too much, that’s all.”
“About Ethan?”
She looked at the young girl. Hannah was more astute than she realized. “Yes, I miss him and hope he comes home soon.”
“So do I. May I stay until he returns?”
“Yes, of course. You may stay as long as you like, but if you get lonely for your parents, let me know.”
“Yes, I will.”
The stables were in sight and Hannah pulled Emily along. “Come. I’m so excited for you to meet Belle.”
They walked inside the stable building and were meet by the groomsman.
“Good day, Mrs. Richardson, Miss Hannah,” he said with a quick bow.
“Hello, Hugh. Nice to see you again,” Hannah said.
“Are you here to see your favorite girl?”
“Oh yes. How is she?” Hannah asked.
“As well as ever,” Hugh said, stopping at one of the stalls.
A chestnut mare neighed when she saw Hannah and the young girl patted the horse’s nose. “Hello, Belle. I’ve missed you.” She reached into her pocket and pulled out a carrot. It took no time at all for Belle to take the carrot from her outstretched hand.
“Isn’t she beautiful, Emily?”
“Yes, she is.”
“Would you care to see your mare, Mrs. Richardson?” Hugh asked.
Emily turned toward the groomsman. “My mare?”
“Yes, Ma’am. In the next stall.”
Emily walked to the next stall and saw the most beautiful white mare she’d every seen. Her coat shone like crystallized snow and her long mane and tail were brushed to perfection. “Oh my. She’s so beautiful.”
Hannah joined Emily. “Yes, she is. What’s her name?”
Emily’s brow furrowed. “I have no idea. I didn’t even know I had a horse.”
“Her name is Bright Star, Ma’am,” Hugh informed her.
Goose bumps rose on Emily’s arms and she shivered.
Bright Star. How perfect. Ethan had thought of everything.
“Are you cold, Emily?” Hannah asked.
“No, I’m fine. My breath is taken away with her beauty, that’s all.” She reached out and patted the mare. “Hello, Bright Star.”
Hannah handed her a carrot and Emily held it out for the mare. The horse nuzzled her hand before chomping on the carrot.
“Now we can go riding together,” Hannah squealed.
“But, I have no riding habit,” Emily said.
Hannah gave her a mischievous smile. “You will.”
“Hannah…”
“It’s been so hard to keep this secret, but Ethan had told me at the wedding breakfast that he’d bought you a mare. I asked Rigal if you had a riding outfit when you moved in and she told me you did not. The modiste will be here this afternoon to fit you.”
“You did this?”
“Yes, with the help of Rigal, of course. How can we go riding if you don’t have a riding habit?”
Emily chuckled. “How indeed.”
On the way back to the house, Hannah was beside herself with glee. “Wasn’t that the best surprise?”
“Yes, it was. I’m afraid though that I’m not a very good horsewoman.”
“Do not worry. I will teach you. It’s the least I can do after you helped me with my piano lessons.”
“That would be lovely. I’d like that very much.”
“Good, then it’s settled. As soon as the habit is finished we can start your lessons.”
The modiste arrived shortly after lunch with trunks full of fabric and two young women to help with the sewing.
“Good afternoon, Mrs. Richardson. It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am Mrs. Phillips.”
“Good day, Mrs. Phillips. Thank you for coming out to the manor.”
“It’s my pleasure, Ma’am. Would you like to choose the pattern?”
“Yes, but would you care for tea before we start. You must be parched after your journey.”
“Yes, thank you. My girls will lay out the patterns while we wait.”
It didn’t take long for Emily to choose the pattern she liked the best. She loved the short peplum and narrowed sleeves of one of them. “This one strikes me the most,” she said.
“An excellent choice. Now let’s choose the fabric. I’ve brought along some fine wools and exquisite velvets for you to choose from.”
Emily’s gaze fell on the plush green velvet, but Hannah went straight to the soft blue wool.
“Emily, this will match your eyes,” she said.
“Oh, now I can’t decide. They’re both so lovely.”
Rigal had been standing in the background and came forward. “Mrs. Richardson will need a habit made in both.”
Emily turned toward her lady’s maid. “Rigal?”
Her lady’s maid whispered in her ear. “Ma’am, Mr. Richardson has set up a personal allowance for you that is quite generous. It is to be used at your own discretion.”
Emily nodded. She was continually flabbergasted by Ethan’s generosity.
Mrs. Phillips waited for Emily’s answer.
“Hannah, is there a fabric you’d love for yourself?”
“Really?”
Emily nodded. “Yes, of course. Choose the one you like the best.”
Hannah picked up the bolt of light gray wool. “This one is quite beautiful, don’t you think?”
“Yes, I love them all. Pick your favorite pattern.” She turned to the modiste. “Mrs. Phillips, please see to it.”
“Of course, Ma’am. We will get to work immediately.”
“Come and I will show you where you may work,” Rigal said leading the way.
When the modiste left with her trunks and girls in tow, Emily sank down on the couch. “I cannot wait to see them finished.”
Hannah sat next to her and gave her a hug. “Thank you for the new habit. I don’t have a gray dress. It was so generous of you.”
“It’s my pleasure, but Rigal informed me that it was Ethan who was the generous one. He had set up a personal allowance for me to be used anyway I wish and I can think of nothing better than to give
you a new habit.”
“You will look beautiful in your new habits, as always,” Hannah said.
“Thank you, Hannah. That is very kind of you to say.”
While Emily waited for the modiste to finish her work, she and Hannah took daily trips down to the stable. She wanted Bright Star to be familiar with her before she climbed up in the saddle. The mare was sweet tempered and Emily became less nervous around her as the days flew past.
It took six days to complete the three riding habits, but they were stunning. Emily marveled at the detail work on the jackets and hats. “Mrs. Phillips, these are exquisite.”
“I’m glad you are pleased, Ma’am.”
“Oh, I’m more than pleased. I love them.”
“If I may be of service again, please send word.”
“Yes, I will. Thank you.”
Emily turned toward Rigal. “Thank you for doing this. I have not worked with Mrs. Phillips before, but we must contact her again before the Season starts. I will need to have new gowns made.”
“Of course, Ma’am.”
Hannah burst into Emily’s sitting room. “I saw Mrs. Phillips leaving and couldn’t wait to see the habits.”
“Come in and see for yourself. Are they not beautiful?”
Hannah fingered the blue wool. “Didn’t I tell you this would be pretty?”
“Indeed you did. You have an excellent eye for fabric.”
Hannah picked up the gray habit. “Oh, I love this.” She twirled around with the habit flaring out around her. “Now we can go riding. Shall we go?”
Emily shook her head. “Not so fast. We must get through your lessons first, but I promise, we will go riding this afternoon.”
Hannah nodded. “Will you wear the blue?”
“Yes, I’d be delighted. Now, let’s go down to the parlor and begin your lesson.”
Hannah skipped out of the room and Emily followed fast on her heels.
Chapter 20
The morning sun was streaming in the sitting room when Emily awoke. She climbed out of bed and padded into the next room.
Rigal was waiting for her. “Good morning, Emily. Would you care for your breakfast sent up to your room?”
“No, I will eat in the dining room with Hannah. Rigal, do you know how many tenant farmers are on the land?”
Age of Innocence Boxed Set (Books 1-3) Page 14
