Chapter Ten
Leah sat daydreaming about Daniel on the edge of her bed. Then an image of Mr. Kensington intruded. What was that about? A soft knock on her door startled her. She hurried to answer.
Cecilia stood on the other side. “You have the strangest expression on your face.”
“I…”
Cecilia took Leah’s hand as she stepped inside the room. “Has something happened?”
Leah wasn’t sure what to make of Felton intruding on her daydream about Daniel. She hadn’t been actively thinking about Felton, but he’d been in her thoughts anyway. Was that significant? Until she figured that out for herself, she wasn’t ready to talk about it. She also didn’t want Cecilia to worry that something was wrong. Think of something else.
“It was the oddest thing. Remember Rollo the cat I befriended from the garden?”
“Of course.”
“Well, yesterday Rollo acted ill.”
“Is he recovered now?”
“Actually he wasn’t ill. I… we, that is Daniel and I discovered that Rollo wasn’t a he at all. She had three kittens yesterday.”
Cecilia’s eyes widened. “How wonderful. You must take me to visit them soon. You know how I love cats.” She lowered her voice. “Just don’t tell my cat Henry. He might get jealous if I pay attention to another.”
Leah glanced to the open doorway. “May I help you with something?”
“No. That isn’t why I’ve come.” Cecilia’s smile fell as she took Leah’s hand and led her to sit beside her on the bed.
“Is something wrong?”
“No. Of course not. There’s someone here to… see you.”
“Me?”
“It’s that Mr. Kensington. From Hyde Park.”
“Oh.” So she’d been right when she’d wondered if he wasn’t going to say something about seeing her after the weekend at the Bradington’s.
“You’ve gone pale. Would you like a glass of water?”
Leah shook her head. He’d actually come to see her. All the air whooshed out of Leah’s lungs. “I don’t know what to… What shall I do?”
“Do you wish to speak with him? I’d be with you, of course.”
Leah chuckled. “Now that would be strange, wouldn’t it? The mistress acting as chaperone for her companion.”
“I’ll not send you down there alone.”
“Would it be rude of me not to see him? He is an acquaintance of Mr. Radcliff’s, after all.”
“It’s possible Mr. Kensington might see it that way. I don’t know. But you don’t have to see him.”
“I’m just not sure.”
“The choice is yours. I’ll support your decision either way.”
“It’s only that… He did seem kind and thoughtful when I spoke with him at the Bradington’s.”
“When he saw you in Hyde Park, he seemed enamored of you. Would it perhaps be of benefit to see what he has to say? You’d mentioned that Daniel might not be serious about a commitment. I realize you have strong feelings for Daniel, but…”
“But it’s unlikely he’s serious about marriage.”
“I am a believer of finding your true love, but if you really think Daniel’s heart isn’t in the right place, perhaps meeting with Mr. Kensington wouldn’t be a bad idea.”
Leah nodded, though she still had doubts.
“There would be the added bonus of Mr. Kensington being wealthy.”
“True.”
But what of Daniel? Her heart ached at even the notion of being with someone other than him. There wasn’t any way Daniel would be able to provide for all of her family’s needs. And as much as she cared for him and enjoyed his attentions and kisses, he still hadn’t declared himself. Was still jovial about most things in life at a time when she most needed someone to take life in a more serious manner.
Cecilia gave Leah’s hand a gentle squeeze. “Will you see him, or shall I have the butler send him away?”
If Mr. Kensington was a way for her to provide for any children she might have, she must accept. “I’ll see him.”
“You’re certain?”
No, but I must. Leah gave a single nod.
“Then let’s get you ready.”
Leah donned her best dress, a light blue one that had been Cecilia’s, and re-pinned her hair. “It will have to do. I’ve no wish to keep him waiting further.” She stood and left the room with Cecilia. What a strange sensation as if the whole world was turned on its head. She was heading to see a gentleman and her mistress accompanied her.
When they entered the parlor, Mr. Kensington stood. “Good day, Mrs. Radcliff. Miss Hunter.”
The women curtseyed. Leah wished she’d stop perspiring beneath her dress. She clutched her hands together, hoping that would cease her trembling. Her thoughts seemed to freeze in her head. What in the world was she going to talk about with Mr. Kensington? Surely their short conversation at the Bradington’s encompassed the little they had in common?
She was startled out of her reverie when something touched her hand. Cecilia. With a tilt of her head, Cecilia indicated that Leah should sit down.
Right… I’m still standing. How idiotic I must seem. She sat down, relieved when Cecilia took the seat next to her. Mr. Kensington sat opposite them on a brown high-backed chair.
Should she say something or wait for him to speak? Cecilia saved her the worry when she leaned forward to pour tea for them. When had she ordered tea? Leah’s thoughts were scrambled. Nothing was making sense.
“Mr. Kensington,” said Cecilia. “How nice to see you again.”
Leah silently blessed Cecilia for starting the conversation.
“Thank you.” He sipped his tea and replaced the cup on the table near him.
Leah knew why Felton was there, but it still sent a jolt through her chest to be sitting across from him.
“How lovely.” Cecilia took a sip of her tea and placed the cup on the small table.
Felton looked at Leah. “I’d very much like to take you on an outing tomorrow.”
Leah’s hand shook and a drop of tea spilled over the side of her cup, plopping on her lap.
Mary, one of the maids, hurried forward and wiped up the spill with the corner of her apron before stepping back into the corner.
Is that how I used to appear to Cecilia when I performed my duties as a maid? Mary seemed to have seeped into the wall, not making a sound and scarcely moving from her spot.
Cecilia glanced at Leah. “Are you feeling unwell?” she whispered.
Leah shook her head and then placed her cup on the table, not at all trusting her wobbly hands to keep hold of her tea. I haven’t told him if I’m agreeable. Am I? Yes, for all the reasons she and Cecilia had talked about in her room earlier, and no because of Daniel. She clasped her hands together in her lap, determined to stop their shaking.
She glanced up at Felton. His eyebrows were raised and his mouth had a slight smile. A quick peek at Cecilia, who gave a nod, gave Leah the courage to answer.
“Th-thank you, Mr. Kensington. That would b-be lovely.”
“Splendid. I thought perhaps we could go to Hatchard’s Bookstore on Piccadilly. I happen to enjoy finding new books to read.”
“I enjoy books too.”
“What are your favorites? Mine are murder mysteries.”
Leah started to relax. Felton seemed so sweet. “I love romance novels.”
“Ah,” He chuckled.” I had an idea you might say that.”
She smiled. “Because I’m a woman and many women enjoy them?”
He tilted his head as if studying her. “No, because someone as lovely and sweet as you would seem to most certainly enjoy reading of a hero and heroine’s happiness.”
Warmth started to curl around Leah’s heart. “Thank you for the compliment. I do indeed treasure a happy ending.”
“As do I. But I’m more inclined to look for happy endings in real life rather than books.”
Leah sighed. What a sweet sentiment. Ceci
lia reached for her teacup from the table, startling Leah a little. I’d nearly forgotten she was here.
Felton turned toward Cecilia. “And what do you prefer to read?”
Cecilia gave Leah a little wink. “I’m like Miss Hunter. Romance novels have stolen my heart.”
He nodded. But his lips twitched as if he was trying to remain serious. “Hmm. Seems I’m in the minority. Perhaps I should read some.”
A giggle popped out before Leah could stop it. She covered her mouth with her hand and darted a glance at Cecilia, who was biting her lower lip. Was she trying not to laugh as well?
After picking up his tea and taking a sip, Felton replaced the cup on the table and then checked his timepiece from his pocket. “Alas, I’m afraid I have an important appointment for which I must be on time.”
Disappointed, Leah nodded. “I understand. It was very nice visiting with you today.”
“Until tomorrow, then.” Felton rose, bowed, and left.
Leah slumped back into her seat. Had that actually just occurred? She’d agreed to an outing. The butterflies in her stomach began to dance again in anticipation.
Voices carried from somewhere down the hall. The butler. And Daniel. What would he say when he found out what she was up to? She jumped when something touched her hand.
Cecilia frowned. “Leah?”
“I’m fine. Just a little nervous about tomorrow.”
“That’s understandable. I’ll accompany you, of course. If however you change your mind and don’t wish to go tomorrow, it’s fine.”
Leah nodded. She could choose not to see Felton again, but she was curious about him. Wanted to know him better. Each time they spoke, she felt herself pulled toward him a little bit more.
Daniel… Her heart ached. How hard it will be to push aside my longing for him. To refuse any further advances or intimacy. She felt wretched for what she must do to him.
Cecilia stood. “I’m going to go out to the gardens for a while. Care to join me?”
“Thank you. But no. I believe I’ll… Perhaps it would be good for me to spend a few moments alone. If you don’t mind.”
“Of course, dear.” Cecilia bent down and kissed Leah’s cheek.
Leah’s eyes misted as she watched Cecilia leave the parlor. Such a true friend. I don’t know what I’d do without her support. Especially now.
A few deep breaths help to relieve her anxiety about tomorrow. At least for the moment. She was quite sure that the day would bring fresh nervousness about the outing. At least Cecilia would be with her. That would ease her discomfort somewhat.
Footsteps sounded outside the door. Had Cecilia forgotten something? Leah gasped as she glanced toward the open doorway. “Daniel.”
“Leah?” He took a step forward, regarded the otherwise empty room and stopped. “Why are you here all alone?”
With haste, Leah stood. “I… Mrs. Radcliff was… receiving a visitor.”
He pointed behind him. “I just saw her in the gardens.” He took a step toward her. “Actually, I’d gone there seeking you.” He reached out for her hand.
The warmth from his hand gave her comfort. Suddenly she wondered if she’d made the right decision in accepting Felton’s offer for an outing. True, she liked him, wanted to know him better, and he could give her a good future.
But Daniel… Just gazing into his eyes made her heart lurch with such longing, such tenderness, it nearly brought her to her knees. Her feelings for Daniel had deepened, even more that she’d realized. The thought of possibly marrying someone other than him, having babies with another man, convinced her of the fact that she loved Daniel. Loved him dearly. What if all of those times when he’d said she could have him if she but said the word weren’t really in jest? Could she take the chance of losing the man of her heart without finding out if he was serious?
Daniel’s brow furrowed. “What’s wrong?”
Daniel would hear at some point who had called on them. And when he did, he’d surely know that the call hadn’t been solely for Cecilia. Better to hear it from her. “When I said that Mrs. Radcliff had a visitor, that wasn’t entirely true.”
He lowered his eyebrows. “It wasn’t?”
“No, Mr. Kensington came to call on me.”
Daniel blinked. “I see.”
Now was her chance. She must find out how Daniel truly felt. Leah gently squeezed Daniel’s hand. “But… perhaps if you—”
Daniel squeezed her hand back and released it. He bit his lip. “Leah…”
Her heartbeat quickened. Was he going to declare himself in light of Felton’s recent visit? “Yes?”
“Mr. Felton is a wealthy man.”
“I know.”
“He… He can give you a wonderful life. One free of financial worries. He’d take good care of you.”
Why was he saying that? “But—”
Daniel leaned forward and took her face in his hands. “As your friend, I wish for you the very best of everything. I want you to be happy. You deserve to make the best match possible. Mr. Kensington can give you that.” He pressed his lips lightly to her cheek. With a sad smile, he left her alone.
Chapter Eleven
The next morning, Daniel returned to the library to replace another book he’d borrowed from Mr. Radcliff. He’d not seen Leah today. But then he hadn’t really expected to. He’d said his piece. His heart might never recover from letting her go, but he’d done the right thing.
At least for her.
“Finding something interesting, Daniel?”
Daniel jumped and turned to find Percy, Mr. Radcliff’s uncle. Of course, Daniel would have preferred to address Percy as Mr. Radcliff as well, but the older man wouldn’t hear of it. Insisting on everyone calling him Uncle Percy, whether or not they were kin. Percy never failed to bring entertainment to those with whom he found favor. But that was a kind way of saying that the man was a loon.
“Hello, Uncle Percy.”
Percy tilted his head toward a row of books farther down to the left. “Have you tried any of these?”
Daniel peered around Percy’s balding head to view them. Ah yes. Percy’s tomes about the various birds of England. “No. I haven’t.”
“But you must. You haven’t really lived until you’ve learned the mating habits of the common cuckoo.”
Daniel bit his lip. He could think of many things he’d rather do than read about that. “Is that so?”
“Oh my yes. I’ve often wished I was one of the males so I could truly experience what they do.”
“I fail to see how—”
“Their tiny hearts fluttering when they first spot their future mate.”
“Perhaps we shouldn’t—”
“Rapid beating of their wings as they hover over her to get her with egg.”
Daniel held up his finger. “You see—”
“The feeling of triumph for the male as the female bird cries out when she—”
Oh no. “Uncle Percy.”
He blinked. “Yes?”
Time to divert his attention from talk of birds. Think of something. “You’ve… of course met Mrs. Radcliff’s companion Leah?”
He nodded. “Lovely girl. Remarkable hair.”
“Yes, well…”
“Does it not remind you of yellow feathers?”
“I’ve never—”
“The sheen, the silky-looking texture reminiscent of a feather’s fine tuft.”
The man truly should have been placed at Bedlam years ago. Lucky for him that his nephew loved him enough to tolerate his madness at home. “I don’t believe I’ve ever thought of her hair in quite that light.”
“Then you should. At once. Think of all the time you’re wasting by not doing it.”
It took everything in Daniel not to roll his eyes. “Perhaps I shall. Thank you for the advice, Uncle Percy.”
Percy waved his hand. “Think nothing of it. I’m always glad to offer my assistance when a young man is smitten.”
How would
he know that? Daniel raised his eyebrows.
“Come now, Daniel. It’s as plain as the beak on a bird’s face. You’ve a tendre for the pretty young lady, haven’t you?”
As crazy as the man was, Percy did have an uncanny ability to spot young love. Daniel had heard that Percy had once done the same for Mr. Radcliff, encouraging him to seek out Mrs. Radcliff’s favor before they were wed and Mr. Radcliff was unsure of his feelings. He didn’t want to lie and say Percy was wrong, so he shrugged.
Percy smacked his hand against his thigh. “Ha! I knew it.” He grinned. “And just how are things faring between you two, hmm?”
I must surely be desperate for a listening ear to confide in him.
There was no one else present at the moment, and Daniel did need some advice. “To tell the truth, I’m in a bit of a pickle.”
Percy nodded and sat down on a high-backed chair near the bookshelves. He patted the chair next to him. “Sit. And we can discuss it.”
What in the world have I done?
Percy smoothed his hair along the side of his head as if he was a bird preening feathers. “You see, young Daniel, women are different than men.”
“Well, yes I know—”
“They’re a different breed, if you will.”
“Of course but—”
“If things don’t go for them as they should, they might get frightened and fly away.”
This is ridiculous. “I really don’t see—”
“What you need to do is to find out what’s important to her. Find out how she feels.”
Daniel’s forehead creased. “I’ve been spending time with her. Enough to know that I… I love her.”
“Splendid!” Uncle Percy clapped.
Daniel held up one finger. “But… She had a call yesterday from a Mr. Kensington who is wealthy and can give her a much better life than I ever could.”
He waved his hand. “I know all about his call. But what does that have to do with anything? You love her.”
“I told her that I believed he would make her happy.”
“Then I would say that you’re a fool.”
“I beg your pardon?” Percy was calling him a fool?
“My boy, nothing should come before love. Nothing.”
“I do love her, but I have nothing to offer her. How can a valet possibly hope to compete with a wealthy man of the gentry?”
Love Birds: The Complete Collection Page 61
