“Enough of this. Lord Kersey, would you please take the ladies—” Robert paused and glared at Kristina, “—all of them, back to the sitting room? Lord Rosewood and I will be along shortly.”
“Come, my dear, for I fear he’s about to go into a rage if we don’t.” Donna put an arm around Kristina’s waist and started to lead her from the office.
“And I’ll tell you everything there is to know about men in general,” her mother pronounced, bringing groans from them.
“But how are you able to tell he's near to rage?" Kristina asked. "Most of the time he wears the same pleasant expression."
“Very easily. When you see his…”
Robert didn’t hear the rest of her answer as the two disappeared down the hall. “I’d best be off to make sure they don’t talk about me,” Kersey joked. If I learn anything from my wife about you, I’ll be sure to pass the information along."
“Thank you, I think,” Robert said as he rushed after the ladies. He then turned his attention back to Lord Rosewood. “Now, back to the topic at hand— marrying your daughter. It would seem from her interruption and attitude she’ll be in agreement to my request?”
“Yes, and as you’ve already seen over the past weeks, she does tend to be a bit stubborn. But I see you’ve learned to deal with that little problem.”
“I would agree she does have a few traits which I find interesting. The most favorable being her dogged resolve to see something through to the end, thus her insistence on coming here with Maurice. Speaking of which, I wonder how things are going with Evan and our guest.”
“Granted. Now I recommend we join the ladies, as I’m sure they’re planning a lavish ball when your engagement is announced to the ton.” The earl stood.
Retracing their steps to the formal sitting room, Robert saw Evan approaching from the opposite direction, a wide grin brightening his face. “From your expression I’d hazard you were able to obtain the information I was seeking?” Robert asked, coming to a halt just outside the sitting room.
“Aye, Captain, and you won’t believe what I learned.”
“Then might I suggest you tell us all at the same time? That way if more questions need answering, you’ll know and get them.”
“I would recommend you refrain from going into any details as to how you learned what you did, for the sake of the ladies' sensitivities,” Rosewood requested.
“Believe me, m’ lord, I’d never do anything to upset them, especially my future mistress,” Evan replied with a nod.
On hearing his valet reference his upcoming marriage to Kristina, his eyes widened. He looked to see if Rosewood had the same reaction, not surprised when he saw the same appearance on the other man's face. Rosewood refrained from saying anything.
“Gentlemen, shall we join the ladies and let them know what was learned?” Robert suggested, waving them in ahead of him.
They immediately confronted him while Lord Kersey stayed safely in the background. Robert started to introduce Evan when Bing entered and whispered to him.
“M’ lord, shall I get more tea and brandy?”
“Yes, and bring one for Evan as it would seem he needs something.”
“At once, m’ lord,” his butler said, then slipped out.
Robert turned to see several anxious faces staring. And one glaring— Kristina. “Well, are you going to keep us in suspense?” she demanded.
“Lady Rosewood, I might try to teach you patience except I doubt it would work.” With a glance to Evan, he nodded for him to start.
“Maurice and I had a very interesting discussion in which I learned a great deal, and several things I was surprised at,” Evan began. "He admitted to killing the viscount, but not John. As far as the attempt on you, Captain, he refused to say anything in regards to it.
“From your experience, do you believe him?” Robert queried.
“For the most part I do, Captain. I’m still not convinced he didn’t try to shoot you. There’s something about the way he hesitated which has me concerned.”
“His confession to killing the viscount will be enough for him to hang,” Bryce announced.
“Evan, did you get the feeling Maurice might know who the other person is?” Kristina interjected. Robert glared at her, but she ignored him.
“Yes I do, Captain. As you heard him speak, he has refined manners, which makes me believe he’s the son from India. By mistake he did drop a hint there was a half-brother, which could be from the village girl years ago.”
“Can you press him on that?” Robert asked. "It’s important we learn if there’s another threat to us."
“If you’ll excuse me, I’ll pursue that line of questioning.” Evan bowed and departed the sitting room.
With the possibility of another assassin lurking about, Robert wasn’t sure, even though he had the earl’s permission, if he should ask Kristina for her hand just yet. However, not to his surprise, the opportunity was removed from him.
“Robert, don’t you have a question to ask me?” Kristina demanded, then softened her words by giving him a sweet smile.
Put on the spot, he turned to her mother, who nodded, then the earl, who followed suit. He stepped over to her and took her hands in his. “Lady Kristina Rosewood, would you consent to be my wife?” He slipped a ring from his vest pocket in anticipation of her accepting him while keeping it hidden from her view.
Silence filled the room as everyone awaited her answer. “Lord Robert Markson, Viscount of Hampshire, I accept your offer to be your wife,” she pronounced, then gave him a deep curtsey.
No sooner had she straightened than he'd slipped the ring over the third finger on her left hand. “Oh! That’s the most beautiful and unique piece I’ve ever seen.” She could barely get the words out.
“My dear, I thought it perfect for you as we met at a masked ball and you were, are, and will always continue to be a mystery to me,” he declared, before guiding her to the middle of the room so everyone could congratulate them and set their eyes on the ring made in the shape of a mask.
Chapter Ten
Over breakfast Robert perused The Tattler, making a mental note to send them the betrothal announcement first thing.
After reading about the latest from Spain, he turned to the society page to see what lies they were printing today and if any should worry him. He cared little for gossip; in general he found it annoying, and most of the time made up of what people wanted to read. Much to his surprise, centered at the top of the page was the declaration of his impending wedding.
“Bing!” he yelled, throwing the broadsheet down and pushing his plate away as he’d lost his appetite.
“Don’t blame him or any of your staff,” Lord Eustace Rosewood said as he marched onto the dining room. “It seemed my daughter thought it would be the best way to bring the other brother out of hiding.”
Robert leaned back in his chair, cupped his chin in his hand and thought about what his future father-in-law had just said. On one hand it didn’t make sense except to endanger Kristina. On the other, he did agree with the decision as it would do precisely as she’d hoped.
“I’m mad I didn’t think of it myself,” Robert explained, sitting upright and slicing off a piece of ham and offering a plate to the earl.
“Thank you, m’ lord, I will. Seems the ladies insisted I hie it over here first thing, in the hopes of getting to you before you read the broadsheet.”
“As we’re going to be family, I insist on being called Robert. As you noted, your timing was perfect. Now help yourself to some sustenance as this is going to be a long and interesting day.”
While the earl filled a plate Robert ordered a pot of coffee for him, then waved him to the chair at his left. Once he was seated, Robert waited for the earl to start in before speaking. “With the news now out, I’m guessing my presence will be requested— nay, ordered by Kristina or the countess at your townhouse this morning.”
He wasn’t surprised when the earl glanced at him, his fork of roast partway
between the plate and his mouth. “Yes, they wish you to arrive at eleven as that’s when the morning visits will start, but what about your and my daughter’s safety from the man?”
“That, good sir, we’ll discuss shortly, as I need to include another in the conversation. I’d also hazard a guess your countess will want to have a ball?”
“Most assuredly. You might want to compile a list of those you’d wish invited, even though you’ve been away for so long. Kristina and my wife will insist.”
Robert nodded his understanding and started to make a mental list of those he would want. His sister and husband topped it, but something told him Kristina would also be including them on hers. He glanced to the earl, and seeing he’d drained the last of his coffee, Robert said, “Shall we adjourn to the office?” He glanced to Bing, who was standing by the door leading to the kitchen. “Would you have Evan join the earl and myself?”
“At once, m’ lord. Would you care for another pot of coffee also?”
“Yes, with four cups. And don’t give me that look of disdain you’re famous for. You’ll be joining us as well in this discussion on how best to protect your future mistress.” He stood, then added, “Since everything will be outdoors, there’s no need for Mrs Stoneworth to join us. However, you’re more that welcome to relay what’s discussed so she can take whatever measures she feels necessary indoors.”
As they departed the dining room and climbed the stairs to the first floor, Robert noticed a puzzling expression on the earl’s face. He suspected the man questioned his valet and butler being involved in the meeting.
“Fear not. Shortly everything will become clear. And as to inviting them to partake of coffee, that’s something I learned in Spain when working with subordinates. Get them to relax, then they’ll think of things not normally thought of. With the proposed dangers in front of us, I need Evan and Bing along with their different skills,” Robert explained, and was happy to see the earl relax his worried brow.
Strolling into the office, he waved the earl to a settee angled toward his heavy, dark oak desk. Taking a seat behind it, he noticed several invitations had already arrived and pushed them to the side. With everything going on, they were the last things he wanted or needed to worry about. He turned his attention to Kristina’s father.
“What I plan, thus the need for two of my staff, is to have both houses kept under guard from before sun up to past sun down.” He was about to continue when Bing with Evan beside entered.
“M’ lord, you wished to see us?” The butler set down a silver tray.
“Yes, pour coffee for all of us and take seats, as we have serious safety precautions to discuss,” Robert ordered, and with a nod accepted a cup.
With the ease of a former captain, Robert explained exactly what was needed from each man and was pleased when they voiced not only their support, but added a few extra suggestions. He was also astounded at how the earl took everything in. Once he dismissed Evan and Bing to start carrying out their assignments, he turned to his future father-in-law.
“I couldn’t help but see how quiet you were during the meeting, only inserting a point here or there.”
“Simply put, Robert, I’m able to manage several different estates, but this was far beyond my knowledge, thus I knew it best to defer to you.”
“Thank you. If it hadn’t been for my last father’s insistence I join the army, then I might not have learned the skills to set a net of safety around Kristina and myself, while at the same time protecting you along with the countess.”
After finishing the last of his coffee, Robert glanced over his shoulder to the marble mantelpiece and the clock set at its center. Noting it was getting close to the hour he'd be required at the Crossington townhouse, he said, “Shall we depart, so I can be there when the ladies start arriving?”
“Yes. Since my coach is out front, shall we take it? Then you can have yours collect you later this afternoon,” the earl recommended.
“Agreed, and being seen together in your coach with the Crossington crest will help cement the match in everyone’s eyes,” Robert responded, rising from his chair and bringing the earl to his feet.
During the short ride between the two townhouses the men kept their conversation light, which suited Robert as it gave him an opportunity to glance around. He didn’t spot the second man, whom he’d learned from the letters had the same telltale white snippet of hair.
Climbing out of the coach at the Crossington townhouse, he wasn’t surprised as Kristina came rushing out to greet him. Today he was happy to see she’d chosen a pale blue morning gown, which complimented her blonde hair. What was most intriguing to him was the neckline. It was slightly lower than any she’d worn before, exposing a hint of the top of her breasts. On first sight he wasn’t sure he approved of it, but then he remembered this was the style most young ladies wore. Once they married, he knew that would change.
Marching up the marble stair to where she stood, with a bright smile on her lips and the countess at her side, he felt a lightness in his heart. More so than he’d had since meeting her. All he wished was the next two weeks to pass quickly so they could be wed and share his bed, something he’d dreamed about since meeting her.
“I’m sorry for creating such a stir but, as my father must have pointed out, doing everything so quickly after the capture of one brother should bring the other out from hiding,” she said, giving him a curtsey.
“Think nothing of it, my dear. Actually I’m not surprised you took up the reins where I failed, and I do agree with the logic.”
“M’ lord, welcome,” the countess said, also giving a curtsey.
“Countess,” he answered, giving her his hand to assist her in rising.
“Please join us in the front sitting room, as it’s the largest for visitors, I’ve already been informed they will be of a great number,” the countess announced with a bright smile.
“After you, my dear lady.” Robert spoke with a bright, warm smile.
Over the next several hours Robert smiled and talked with members of the ton he’d only nodded to or had a few words with prior to this day. The only saving grace came just before luncheon, when his sister and Lord Kersey entered and strolled across the room toward them. “Kristina, Brother. Again, congratulations on your impending wedding,” Donna announced with a smile.
“Thank you, dear sister.” Robert turned to Bryce, leaving Kristina and Donna to talk. About what he wasn’t sure, but he surmised it had to do with spending his money.
“How did Prinny take to your retirement?” Robert asked, guiding Bryce away from the ladies while making sure Lord Rosewood joined them.
“He wasn’t happy, but I expected that. I’m glad it’s over as I was able to accomplish everything I wanted. We suspect there are still other traitors out there. I mention this because you and Kristina have come to his attention as possible individuals who could replace me.”
“If you should see him, you can tell Prinny for me I’m not interested as we plan to retire to the country after we're wed,” Robert told his brother-in-law in a tone which he hoped left no room for argument or discussion. “Since being back I’ve spent little time at the main estate, and wish to get things settled there before venturing to the other, smaller holdings.”
He glanced to see what the earl’s reaction would be and wasn’t surprised to see him nod in agreement. “That, Robert, is an excellent decision as you’ve been gone for so long and have only dealt with the different managers through the post. If I might suggest, though…don’t be totally closed to the idea, but give yourself and Kristina time to get everything in order.”
“I’ve only just found you, and the last thing I want is to have you disappear on some far-flung hunt for someone who can cause you harm,” Kristina said as she with Donna stepped up to the men.
Robert, against propriety, encircled her waist with his arm, drawing her against him before planting a kiss on her cheek. “I feel the same, my darling, and trust me when I
say nothing and no one is going to steal me from your side, now or ever.”
Just then the luncheon gong sounded. Offering her his arm, they started for the parlor door when the Crossington butler stepped up to him.
“M’ lord, this was only now delivered with the instructions to have it placed in your hand post-haste.” The man handed over a cheap piece of folded paper, without an answering address on it.
Not wanting to be bothered at the time, he shoved it into his vest pocket to review at a later date. “What was that, Robert?” Kristina whispered as they strolled toward the dining room.
“Nothing. I’ll deal with it after luncheon, so don’t worry.”
“If you say so, but your dour expression tells me I should,” she answered.
He answered her with a comforting smile, settled her at the table, then took his place beside her.
At the first opportune moment, when she was distracted by discussing the upcoming engagement ball with her mother, he snuck a glance at the note.
You’ll never share the marriage bed with her. You’ll be dead.
He forced a relaxed expression so Kristina wouldn’t worry, then glanced to the earl, who wore a questioning look and nodded as if he understood.
Later, while the ladies shared tea in the formal sitting room, he showed the earl and Bryce the note. It was Bryce who spoke first. “This is outlandish that he could think of having this passed to you today of all days.”
“It shows how desperate the man is,” Robert calmly responded. I suspect he’ll try within the week to kill me. To that end, I’ll make sure all the guards are in place before we attend the ball this eve."
“I feel it would be best if we informed the ladies of the warning,” Lord Rosewood said.
Chapter Eleven
With a furrowed brow Robert glanced to the earl, then Bryce, who nodded in agreement. “As much as I’m against it since I’m not sure how Kristina will take the news, you’re right. I also feel we should tell them all. This way there’s no secrets being kept back.” Robert rose from his chair to join the ladies. From the sound of chairs scraping against the floor, he knew the other two were following his lead.
To Catch a Killer: Markson Regency Mystery Series Collection Page 7
