“But of course. I would love nothing more than a few stolen moments,” he said, smiling. “I truly cannot imagine anything more pleasurable.”
Sophie had only seconds to bask in his attention before Lady Illiff swept into the foyer and hurried them out the door to the waiting carriage. Lady Illiff’s footman helped her into the carriage then turned to assist Sophie. Lady Illiff patted the cushion beside her. “You shall sit beside me, Sophie. I must say, I am glad for your company. You seem to converse quite easily with your elders, and there is much I would know.”
“As the youngest in my family, I’ve been surrounded by elders all of my life. I have few friends my own age.” She said this, throwing a meaningful glance at Wesley. “I have always related better with those my senior rather than my junior. I suppose the only exception would be my cousins, but even then Amanda is older.”
“Youth has its merits,” Lady Illiff said as the carriage bounced against the rough road. “Enduring lengthy carriage rides for one.” She laughed at her own comment, as though feeling extremely witty.
Sophie received only an occasional smile from Wesley as the carriage traversed the winding and rutted road to the country estate of Lord and Lady Wingate. It was Lady Illiff who carried the conversation, plying her with a seemingly endless list of questions. The older woman seemed most interested in Uncle Jonas and his ability to handle her grandfather’s estate. Sophie knew little of such matters, but she did her best to respond.
“I give the family financial situation little thought,” she told the woman. “My uncle is good to oversee anything of importance. He was well trained by our grandfather.”
“It is good that Mr. Broadmoor cares so deeply for his extended family,” Lady Illiff replied. “So many men would find such tasks tiresome. But, of course, with the deaths you have suffered, it is important that there be at least one level-headed man of means to oversee the family coffers.”
“I suppose so,” Sophie said, rolling her eyes.
“What of the family estates?”
“I’m not certain what you mean.”
“The estates. The family homes. Have they endured? Have they been sold?”
Sophie nodded. “Most have endured. The house I grew up in was sold after my mother’s passing. But not for financial reasons,” she quickly added. She didn’t want Wesley to think her a pauper. “There is still the island castle. It’s truly lovely. My grandmother furnished it quite lavishly. She spared no expense to create a palace of sorts.”
“And since your grandfather passed on, who now holds possession of the property?”
Sophie was growing bored with the woman’s nosy questions. “I suppose we all do.”
“All? But who does that reference?” Lady Illiff demanded.
Unfortunately, Lady Illiff appeared to think Sophie’s answers less than acceptable, and each reply was followed by yet another question.
The old busybody. She had probably only allowed Sophie to join them so that she could wangle information related to the Broadmoor fortune.
When they finally arrived at Wingate Manor, Sophie sighed with relief. She hoped Lady Wingate would not prove to be so inquisitive.
The Wingates were obviously as wealthy as the Illiffs. The grandeur of the four-story estate reminded Sophie of the Broadmoor Island home. She guessed there to be at least as many rooms, perhaps more.
They were ushered into a palatial sitting room where a whitehaired woman sat regally, ready to receive them. The gilded throne chair upon which she sat was some antiquated piece no doubt passed down through the generations.
“Oh, my dears, my dears. How lovely of you to join me. I pray the journey did not overtax you. I have much to speak to you about.”
“It was quite exhausting,” Lady Illiff declared, “but the good company made up for it. You know my dear Mr. Hedrick, of course, and this is Miss Sophie Broadmoor of America.” She leaned down to embrace Lady Wingate and then paused as the woman whispered something in her ear.
Sophie gave a curtsy, uncertain what else to do. She had long ago learned that most adults were offended when younger people spoke without being directly addressed. So she waited rather impatiently to see what might be said. She didn’t have to wait long.
Lady Illiff stepped away from her friend and beckoned Sophie and Wesley to her side. “There are several private matters Lady Wingate wishes to discuss with me. She suggested the two of you might enjoy a walk in her gardens.”
Sophie’s spirit soared at the suggestion, but she forced herself to remain calm and offered no more than a reserved nod. Should she appear overly pleased with the idea, Lady Illiff might withdraw the suggestion.
Wesley escorted her to the garden doors with the formality of a stranger, but once they were a short distance from the house, he grinned. “Can you believe our good fortune? I doubted we would have even a moment to ourselves.”
“I told myself I would be content and enjoy your presence, but I had hoped for so much more. I wish to speak to you on a subject of great importance.”
He chuckled and patted her hand. “You are a truly winsome young lady, Sophie. I cannot tell you how wonderful it has been spending this time with you. I believe we have been brought together for so much more than mere friendship.”
“That is exactly what I wish to speak of. I know it is improper for me to be so bold, but I fear if I do not tell you how I feel, you will think me not interested in what might come of our time together.”
“And what might you wish to see come of our time together?” he asked in a low, enticing tone.
Sophie swallowed hard and met his intense gaze. Her spirit soared at his words, and she pushed all restraint aside. “I have never before felt like this, Wesley. I truly do not know what to think.”
“Dear Sophie, I understand, for I am overcome by those very same emotions. However, I believe it would be best if we move slowly and see where our hearts take us. I would hate to have your uncle think me taking advantage of one so innocent. He has done much to guard you and keep you from harm. I wouldn’t want him to believe me a threat.”
She squeezed his hand. “You could never be a threat. Uncle Jonas will find you quite acceptable. You are a gentleman held in high regard by the Illiffs, and therefore you are worthy of his esteem. But we have so little time. I’ll be sailing for New York in two weeks. Lady Illiff mentioned that you have considered making England your home.” She lowered her gaze. “I don’t think I can bear the thought of leaving you. . . .”
He lifted her chin with his finger, and Sophie trembled at his touch. Surely this was true love. No one had ever made her feel like this before.
“Lady Illiff has overstepped her boundaries. Only once have I spoken of permanently remaining in England, and that was shortly after my wife’s death. Though I enjoy my visits here, I have no intention of leaving the country of my birth. And now that I know you share my feelings, I hope that you will welcome a visit from me at your home in Rochester.”
“Would you consider a visit in the very near future? Perhaps for the Christmas holidays? Our family is rather large, but I know you would receive a cordial welcome—especially from me.” She leaned closer, enjoying the scent of him, willing him to say yes.
“How could I possibly refuse such an invitation?” He touched his finger to her cheek. “But you must first make certain your aunt would have no objection. If your uncle were here, I would first seek his approval before accepting your sweet offer.”
“Oh, you need not worry over my uncle’s approval. Aunt Victoria finds you most charming, and I know she will be in agreement. There is no reason for her to offer an objection.”
“You are a true delight, dear Sophie. For so long now, I have wondered if I would ever again feel alive.” He placed her palm against his chest. “After I have been so long without feeling, it is you who has caused my heart to beat anew.”
Wesley leaned forward as if to brush his lips against her cheek, but Sophie turned to meet his lips wit
h a longing that would not be denied. She wrapped him in an embrace and melted into his arms, feeling as though she’d finally discovered the one place where she belonged.
When their lips finally parted, Wesley stepped back as though he’d been branded by a hot iron. “I apologize for my behavior. Please say you will forgive me, Sophie. I am ashamed of myself, but I fear your beauty and charm have overwhelmed me. Please know that I have never before conducted myself in such an ungentlemanly fashion. I am terribly ashamed.”
Placing a palm on either side of his face, Sophie lifted his chin until their eyes met. “You owe me no apology, Wesley. ’Tis I who encouraged your behavior, and I would do the same again. I only hope we will find time to be alone while in London.”
7
Thursday, November 11, 1897
London
Since their arrival in London two days earlier, time had passed at a dizzying tempo. There had been a tour of Kew Gardens, an evening at the theater, and the ritual of teas and socials arranged by Lady Illiff. Victoria had been pleased when Daniel requested a quiet visit with her that afternoon while the three girls accompanied Lady Illiff to several of London’s best shops in search of finery. The older woman had insisted no proper young lady could visit London without perusing the latest styles and offerings for next season’s gowns, especially since they were not planning to visit Paris on this trip.
Daniel was awaiting her when Victoria entered the sitting room of Lady Illiff’s London town house. He jumped to his feet the moment she stepped into the room. Though not the most handsome young man Victoria had ever set eyes upon, Daniel was the epitome of excellent breeding and good manners. And there was no doubt he cared deeply for Fanny. He’d doggedly pursued Fanny since they’d left Rochester—a fact that hadn’t escaped Victoria’s keen attention throughout their journey. Of late, it appeared Fanny had taken an interest in Daniel, as well. Victoria had observed them together more and more frequently. In most instances, she thought Jonas knew little of the female mind, or even of love, for that matter. However, he’d predicted Fanny would forget Michael once he was out of sight and she had someone of substance to occupy her time. Victoria had thought his claims foolhardy, but now it appeared that her husband had been correct.
Other than Fanny’s initial protest of the voyage, the young woman had seemed completely content to have Daniel act as her escort. Although Daniel’s dress clothes had mysteriously disappeared three days into the voyage, he’d managed to borrow a suit from another passenger, and he and Fanny had been inseparable, whether on the dance floor or while strolling the decks. The sight of the young couple had, in fact, given Victoria hope, for though she wanted the girls to marry for love, she understood the need to marry a man of substance. Michael was, of course, a fine young man, but he and Fanny shared no commonality.
He had been reared with the strong values of the Atwell family, but his inept social skills would soon prove a burden for any Broadmoor woman. Daniel was the superior choice. And now that Fanny appeared content to leave Michael to the past, Victoria could admit she had taken a genuine liking to Daniel. Throughout their voyage, he had been quick to seek and follow her guidance. The young man had proved quite dependable, too. Indeed, she’d discovered Daniel possessed many fine attributes. And the fact that he continued to seek her advice through these private visits had served to reinforce her fondness for the young man.
He brushed a wave of light brown hair from his forehead. “Thank you for agreeing to visit with me, Mrs. Broadmoor. I’ve taken the liberty of ordering tea.”
“Thank you, Daniel. You are such a thoughtful young man.” Victoria glanced toward the enclosed veranda that overlooked the rear garden of the town house.
“Would you prefer to take tea on the veranda?”
His ability to read her cue warmed Victoria’s heart. How long had she and Jonas been married? Over thirty years now, and he still would have failed to realize her preference for the veranda rather than the sitting room.
“You read my thoughts,” she replied with a warm smile.
Once they were settled and the maid had delivered their tray, Victoria relaxed with a cup of tea. “I do hope you’re enjoying your time here in London.”
“Yes, of course, but I have a matter of import that I would like to discuss with you before Fanny returns home.”
Victoria patted his hand. “Well, of course, Daniel. You know that I’ve grown to enjoy our little visits.”
He downed his tea in one gulp and clanked the cup onto the saucer. “I love Fanny,” he blurted.
Victoria touched her fingers to the white chiffon bow at her neckline. “Your declaration doesn’t surprise me overmuch, Daniel. I’ve not failed to notice a budding romance between you two, and I must say that I am pleased—for both of you.”
“Oh, thank you so much, Mrs. Broadmoor. Your approval means a great deal to me.”
Though the afternoon remained cool, Daniel removed a linen square from his jacket pocket and daubed his forehead. There was little doubt the young man was a bundle of anxiety. Victoria patted his hand. “I’m surprised to see you appear so concerned. Surely you knew I approved of you, Daniel.”
He nervously tapped his fingers atop the table. “No. I wasn’t certain. I mean, I know Mr. Broadmoor approves of me, but he indicated you might not think me a good match for Fanny.”
Victoria snapped to attention. “Then you’ve already spoken to my husband regarding your affection for Fanny?”
“Yes. I declared my feelings, for I would never want Mr. Broadmoor to believe I would attempt to win the heart of his niece without first gaining permission to court her.”
The revelation surprised Victoria. Jonas hadn’t said a word to her of Daniel’s declaration, although there had been other more pressing details to discuss prior to their departure. It had likely slipped his mind. Jonas seldom thought matters of the heart deserved much attention. Her husband was no romantic. Perhaps that’s why she thought Daniel charming. In his quest to ensure Fanny’s happiness, he was willing to set aside his own comfort and seek that which would make her happy.
“Mr. Broadmoor stated that if I was willing to win Fanny’s affection, he would offer no objection.”
“Well, at least Jonas and I are in agreement on that matter.”
Daniel’s eyes brightened. “I understand Mr. Broadmoor will arrive in less than two days, but I hoped you might consider helping me choose an engagement ring for Fanny.”
“An engagement ring? Oh, Daniel, I would be most pleased to assist you, though I would caution that you continue to woo Fanny and not propose marriage until you are convinced you’ve won her heart.”
Daniel leaned forward. “You will never know the depth of my appreciation, Mrs. Broadmoor. You have been a stalwart friend and confidante throughout this journey, and I hope that our friendship will continue long after we have returned to America.”
The young man was a genuine treasure trove of surprises. The fact that he valued her friendship warmed Victoria’s heart. “I am certain we will be friends for years to come, Daniel. And I expect the girls will be gone until late this afternoon with their shopping. What do you think? Shall we venture out and begin a search for a ring?”
“Oh yes. I would be very grateful.”
Her earlier weariness evaporated, and she looked forward to the excitement of locating the perfect ring for Fanny. She wondered if Wesley would soon be seeking Lady Illiff’s help in choosing a ring for Sophie. There was little doubt Sophie had won his heart. Still, Victoria remained uncertain whether Sophie was ready to settle into married life.
For now, however, she would enjoy the pleasure of helping Daniel select the perfect engagement ring. Although her own daughter was the eldest of the three cousins, Amanda remained uninterested in marriage. Despite the fact that Victoria considered her daughter’s aspirations toward a career admirable, Jonas would soon expect his daughter to marry. And he would require she marry a man of his choice—one who had attained high
social standing and financial affluence.
After retrieving her hat and gloves, Victoria returned to the foyer to join Daniel. “I don’t know when I’ve been more excited.”
They were a short distance down the street when Veda came running after them. Victoria opened her mouth to chastise the girl for shouting in such an unladylike fashion until she realized the maid was waving a telegram.
Veda came to a breathless halt and extended the telegram. She took only a moment to gain her breath. “I’m sorry to race down the street shouting like a street vendor, Mrs. Broadmoor, but I didn’t know when you would return. This arrived for you earlier in the day, and Lady Illiff’s butler forgot to deliver it to you.”
Once the maid departed, Victoria motioned Daniel to an outof-the-way spot. She quickly read the message and then shoved it back inside the envelope. Jonas would not be joining them as scheduled. A combination of anger and frustration assailed her, and she bit her lower lip to stop the trembling. Why must Jonas always disappoint her? He’d given his word, and now there was nothing more than a few words saying business problems prevented his coming. He would have much to explain when they returned to New York.
Sophie very much enjoyed the time spent in London. She found the bustle and excitement of the city stimulated her senses in most every way. Of course, she was constantly overstepping the bounds of etiquette in some manner, but she didn’t let that bother her. It concerned her very little that she was to never walk alone in the company of a man without a chaperone. She certainly didn’t worry about the scandal caused when a lady danced more than three times with the same partner. So many of the rules were replicated in American society, and Sophie figured that if she didn’t pay them any mind at home, she was under no obligation to give them credence abroad.
Throughout their days in London, she’d taken pleasure in Wesley’s companionship. He’d regaled her with stories of English history, of kings and queens, grandeur and scandal.
An Unexpected Love Page 9
