The firelight danced in the black mirror of his eyes, mesmerizing Laura with their performance, until the warmth of the fire, assisted by the small intake of alcohol, obliged her to declare her imminent withdrawal.
Thomas did not intervene. Instead, he sat contemplating a new awareness. Under his roof lived a woman that he would undeniably welcome in his bed. He did not dispute that truth. This was something more. Respect? Thomas groped for words to explain his confusion but none seemed adequate. When the time came for Laura to depart, he would be interested to learn what his reaction would be.
CHAPTER EIGHT – The Stranger
Dawn arrived on the second day. Laura had slept peacefully, untroubled by dark thoughts as tiredness had played its part. Her routine followed a similar pattern to the previous morning, except today Thomas had arrived in the kitchen first.
“Miss Jennings,” Thomas welcomed, while exiting the kitchen to attend to his duties, leaving Laura to warm the room and supply the morning meal.
When the plates had been placed in their respective positions, Thomas returned. “The roof is in need of repair, and the fields require tending. Every day another task demands my attention.”
“And don’t forget the walls and floors of your home could do with a good scrubbing,” came Laura’s playful reply.
With the feast complete, and a contented smile, Thomas set about his daily routine.
Laura spent an uneventful morning targeting cobwebs for destruction, displaying little patience with disorder. She explored, inspecting history. The experience rewarded her on many levels. Treasures existed to stimulate her imagination; however, the truth that they were just common items, if one removed the mystical, Laura chose to ignore.
On completion of the evening meal, the fireside again beckoned and, with glass in hand, Laura and Thomas took up their respective positions.
Laura resumed the discussion they had discarded the previous night. “You made mention of your recent return to England -.”
Thomas’ explanation never arrived. Horses’ hooves clashed on the cobblestones outside, evaporating the informal atmosphere. Thomas was well versed with the situation.
“Stay where you are, Laura, and I beg of you, do not move until I give you permission.”
Thomas made a grab for his pistol. Highwaymen seldom roamed nowadays, but caution was always a wise move. Positioning himself at the window nearest the door, Thomas took up his vantage point. He observed the uninvited caller in relative secrecy.
Laura’s recall was immediate, as the image surfaced of her own courtyard ordeal. Upon her arrival, the caretaker had chosen to let her suffer. Anger blinded Laura to any threat from the outside, as she witnessed firsthand how the caretaker would have profited at her expense. Laura swore a private oath that she would reprimand him before ever drawing breath again.
Thomas paid Laura no heed. Whatever her complaint, he decided she would have to wait.
The pounding on the wooden door showed no signs of abating and Thomas had to shout his instructions above the din. The bolt fought against its release, as Thomas surrendered the fight to the exacting intruder.
Well-proportioned features surrounded eyes overlaid with a dark blue glaze. Laura could only think to describe the man as handsome. Debonair in appearance, expensive riding clothes hugged his masculine frame. A leather riding crop beat a steady rhythm against an outstretched leg. The stranger’s coat swayed in time with his movements, the garment maintaining its momentum as the man strode with confidence into the room.
Laura judged the stranger to be roughly the same age as the caretaker. He carried about him an air of superiority and sophistication, obviously the outcome of good breeding.
The new arrival offered speech first. “So Thomas, you have returned home at last.” The stranger’s manner was every bit a gentleman’s, his tone jocular in nature.
Vigorous banter followed the questioning statement and expressions of welcome filled the chamber. The newcomer halted only when he spied Laura.
Up until now, Laura had managed to isolate herself, shielded by the height of the fireside chair.
The gentleman directed his flattery at Thomas while targeting Laura with his stare. “Let it never be said that you are not without hidden talents, old man. Thomas, I insist you grant me the right of introduction this very instant!”
The stranger performed a polite bow in reference to Laura. The proficiency of the action affirmed his rank, before he pivoted on his heels to face the caretaker.
“Tell me, Thomas. Have you travelled the world to find this fair maiden, or shall you spin an untruth and have me believe you discovered her in this remote spot?”
Laura witnessed events in the good humour in which they were offered; the playful rivalry between the men was infectious. She would wait until they recovered their composure for a formal introduction.
The stranger manoeuvred himself into an intimate position beside Laura.
Ill at ease, Laura was about to comment on the man’s close proximity when he directed the most handsome of smiles her way. Laura could do nothing but react with equal enthusiasm. Laura tried vainly to hold onto her light-heartedness, as Lord Henry Marlbrook made his name and his title known.
The caretaker was obviously entertained by Laura’s predicament; however, his black eyes contained something else that Laura could not quite discern. Regardless, she had no care for his manner.
The tone of the evening was about to change, as Laura hurriedly curtseyed to Lady Catherine’s son and her new Master. However, despite her immediate distress, Laura’s focus remained with the caretaker. She considered his behaviour to be shameless and his neglect to inform Lord Henry of her circumstances was unforgivable.
“What is this, Thomas, that your guest must be so formal?” Lord Henry spoke with good temper and genuine bemusement.
Thomas knew only too well what Laura was thinking. “My Lord, perhaps it is because the lady is in your employ that you find her troubled?”
The caretaker’s candid answer infuriated Laura. Neither man paid her any courtesy. She began to suspect that she had been wrong in her estimation of the caretaker’s standing. The openness exhibited between the caretaker and Lord Henry was uncommon between those of unequal classes. Laura’s heart beat erratically at that prospect being true.
Lord Henry halted Laura’s anxious thoughts. “I see that my mother’s taste has not deteriorated with age, Thomas.”
“Agreed, but I am afraid that we are embarrassing this young woman with our observations.”
Laura made a mental note to thank the caretaker for her small lifeline.
Lord Henry withdrew a respectable distance. “Madam, Thomas has correctly shown me the error of my ways. I beg you to forgive my lack of manners, for I have not the slightest intention of promoting any offence.” The courteous declaration at an end, Lord Henry stooped to place a delicate kiss upon Laura’s hand. “Never let it be said that I am not gallant in my ways.”
“Where is your ale, Thomas, and what delays its progress to the table?” Lord Henry voiced his order in mock dismay before proceeding to make himself at home.
Laura remained standing. When the opportunity arose, she would politely withdraw from their company.
The moment never arrived.
A short time later, casually seated on the wooden bench next to the dining table, Lord Henry’s attention inevitably returned to Laura.
“Tell me then, Miss Jennings. My mother hired you in London?”
“Yes, my Lord. I remained in London to oversee the closure of your townhouse, while her Ladyship travelled ahead.” Laura went on to provide details of her failed journey, her lone query of Lord Henry was one concerning Sarah. “May I ask if you can confirm my sister’s safe arrival at Marlbrook?”
“Unhappily, I cannot. I have not had the privilege of meeting her, but if, as you say, she accompanied my mother, then all is well. Lady Catherine is definitely in residence. I can testify to that.” Lord Henry’s
laughter was natural and unconstrained. “The main reason you find me in your company is due to my mother’s constant utterances of marriage and responsibilities. However, now that I have had the privilege of meeting you, I must state my regret at not making your sister’s acquaintance. If she is as comely as you, then by my own hand, have I been robbed of a delight.”
Thomas glanced across the room at Laura, and he could only imagine how such a sudden infusion of colour must feel in a person’s face. He decided to rescue her.
“Miss Jennings will resume her journey when the driver returns with the replacement carriage.”
“Well, ma’am, then it is to my benefit that I stopped here on my way to London,” replied Lord Henry.
A gentleman in style and manners, Lord Henry puzzled Laura. She could not fault him, and yet his friendly cover belied a quality of character that she could not comprehend.
The conversation continued, lively of topic, and the evening wore on without incident. Laura avoided active participation in the discussions, mindful that she was under Lord Henry’s constant scrutiny and conscious that they were both under the caretaker’s surveillance.
“Madam!” Lord Henry’s sudden outburst made Laura visibly jump. “The conversation begins to bore me. Your silence deprives us of a refined point of view, one that would normally quell our reckless remarks. After all, Thomas is perhaps not the most suitable of conversationalists.”
Lord Henry’s words achieved their end, renewing the banter that had threatened to falter.
Lord Henry concealed his true motives. His birthright bestowed power and he played a well-exercised game. Women had always been drawn by his attention. He had tested his influence over Laura, but thus far his attempts were ineffectual. Laura had chosen to ignore his flattery.
The lull in conversation gave Laura her chance to escape. “Gentlemen, I thank you for extending the courtesy of an invitation to converse but you, as friends, have ample accounts to discuss. An outsider could only restrict your personal expressions.” Laura’s undertaking was not as demure as she would have liked.
Laura's rejection affected each man differently. One found her reply consistent, the other enticing.
To permit hired help to display such outright defiance can only be tolerated if one is happy to help tame such behaviour, and Lord Henry decided that he would find the task more than agreeable. It was a great pity that London called, and that he could not delay. However, he was not leaving yet. The possibility of some sport before he left was not an impossibility; likewise, the anticipation of a diversion, his for the taking and resident in his home, proved to be an enticement that made him uncomfortable in his seat.
Once again, Thomas came to Laura’s assistance. “You are gracious in your gesture, madam, for it displays your nature in a decidedly good light. If it is your wish, you may remove yourself from our undeserving company.”
Laura accepted the caretaker's charity. With the expressions of goodnight dealt with, Laura left the men to their merriment, their laughter resounding in the corridors as she ascended the stairs.
Laura shook her head. To have met his Lordship under such circumstances was unfortunate. She determined the best way forward was for her to remain in her room and venture out only for meals. Any unfit thoughts that come from being housed under the same roof as two drunken men would be cleared. Her departure could not come soon enough.
Jealousy was a new emotion that had taken Thomas by surprise, and he had to concede that he had long forgotten the art of swooning over females. His problem, while not hard to comprehend, made the remedy difficult to secure. Henry could make life difficult for Laura. As well, from what Thomas had gauged thus far, his friend would not hesitate in taking what he judged to be rightfully his. He would have to ensure that Henry was not capable of any dishonourable exploits. Laura would be safe at Marlbrook in the company of Lady Catherine, surrounded by her household. His qualms did not extend that far. Whatever her son had become, Lady Catherine would not condone Henry’s behaviour in her home.
Thomas and Henry’s reunion supplied an insight into two mismatched lifestyles. As boys, their roads had contained the same merit, but circumstances had seen their adult paths divide. Today had brought them back into unity, two men eager to forge a way ahead. The gulf between them was wide and the years many. Ale flowed, quenching their thirst, and the past was relived until the early hours of the morning, when they finally conceded defeat. Thomas knew Laura would be asleep, secure behind closed doors.
Henry spoke in words thick with drink and deeply rooted in ignorance. “Let us talk freely, Thomas. Is this delightful woman yours, or would you be prepared to share her with an old friend?”
“I think you should take yourself off to bed. Besides, what would a lady see in a scoundrel like you?”
“Thomas. You forget that I am not only your guest but also a Lord. Surely you are duty bound to afford me comfort as I travel these dusty roads?” Henry laughed. “The beer has not dulled everything I own. I could still make it worth the woman’s while for a bit of exertion. No? Ah! You are unsympathetic my friend. Or is it that you are unwilling to share?” The last query stated, Henry fell backwards and lay slumped against the wall.
“I shall talk to you tomorrow, Henry. Tonight I think you are incapable of anything.”
Henry failed to recognise the rage welling in Thomas, the drink dulling his perception. Had he done so, he might have desisted.
“You are defending the wench. She must be good at her work to have you so bound, Thomas. This is a woman who is prepared to remain alone in a house with two men. She cannot be an innocent. I say, let the maid choose between us. Let us awaken her and name the man for whom she would rather spread those lovely legs.”
The loud, debauched comments echoed in the quiet, following Henry in his wake, as he tried in vain to navigate a straight line to his apartment.
Infuriated, Thomas’ rage flared and permitted no restraint. He threw Henry, with a great deal of vigour, against the nearest door, a string of curses rolling off his tongue.
Henry answered with a stupid grin that sent Thomas to the brink of his endurance. Fists at the ready, Thomas longed to wipe the smirk from his friend’s lips. Instead, he tossed Henry, unceremoniously, headfirst into his bed.
Henry had indicated that he would pass another day or two at the Manor. Thomas knew that in due time, the land would again call him to his obligations and away from the house. Thomas could not guarantee Laura’s safety, and the thought of hands other than his upon Laura made him feel ill.
CHAPTER NINE – Flight
Laura’s sleep-befuddled brain argued that thunder was not unusual, but her waking self understood more. Her bedroom door was under attack.
“Who is it?” Laura cried, a dramatic scramble ensuing, as she clambered from her bed.
The command that met her was harsh.
“Open the door. At once!”
Laura’s reaction was swift. Her feet moved of their own accord, delivering her to the entranceway. The click that a key makes, as it circles in the lock, was the last rational sound Laura heard that morning.
The caretaker’s demanding, unshaven face replaced the grainy wood of the door.
“For mercy sake, what has happened?” Laura searched the familiar features, examining his rugged face for warnings of fire or the like. When no answer was forthcoming, the state of her undress dictated Laura’s next move. Laura pushed at the offending portal, expecting to banish the caretaker from her view, but Thomas rejected the assault.
Thomas entered the room without consent and desirous of none.
Laura ignored Thomas. Targeting her shawl, located on the chair beside her bed, her need for protection propelled her across the bare floorboards. The article, large and comforting, afforded some bravado - pretence mattered. Only then did she again formally acknowledge his presence.
“Sir, please explain. What dire event has occurred that would bring you to my chamber at this hour and wi
th such malice?”
Laura’s hands shook with fright, but she could not afford to let the caretaker view her unease. This, her third day in his company, was obviously not going to follow the same path as the previous two.
Shadows lingered, but the need for candles had long since expired. Laura’s confusion mounted.
Thomas’ appearance was unruly. Alcohol, Laura assumed, had played its part, but she did not want to believe that he had come to harm her or cast their friendship aside.
Thomas spoke, his voice teeming with deceit. “Marlbrook estate is some distance from here.”
“You are correct, sir, but you confound me with your statement. You know that I cannot verify your claim.”
For Thomas, the sanctity of sleep had come in bursts. His night had been spent in the pursuit of answers, a task hindered by the addition of drink. However, his conviction was sound and had not been relinquished in the dawn light. He had to send Laura from his home - away from Henry.
Henry was no different than the majority of men, but he had the added complication of being Laura’s employer. And for Laura, Thomas judged work to mean survival. Thomas also suspected that she would not withstand any onslaught Henry might have to offer. Also, perhaps, if he were truly honest, it was not just his friend that he was sending her from. Thomas hauled his manner back under control.
“There are lodgings within a day’s ride to the West of here.” Thomas hesitated, his resolve threatening to abandon him. “A state of affairs has arisen that demands you take your leave forthwith. This is the destination to which you must travel. I will send word to your driver to collect you from there. I shall leave you to your preparations. Do you understand what is expected of you?”
Laura did not understand. The man’s comments were severe, and she could not recall any provocation on her behalf that could warrant his cruel treatment of her.
Thomas had rallied her from her sleep and then introduced her to sorrow, this from the man she had begun to call friend. Disappointment rose, bitter and malformed.
Journey's End (Marlbrook) Page 3
