Page 57 of Married to the Lord

Chapter Twenty-Two

“Lord Ashwick, there is a...man here to see you.”

Miles peered over his paper and scowled. “A man?” Why had his butler not taken his name? Or perhaps Greggs had and Miles simply had not noticed. He could not help but feel distracted considering his brother was due to return tomorrow and Augusta planned to visit so they could tell him the truth.

“Show him into the drawing room,” Miles said, folding the paper.

Greggs shook his head, tightening his lips. “I have him in the kitchen. It seems the best place for him.”

Miles's frown deepened but he shrugged. “Very well.” If it was one of the tenant farmers, they'd not be happy simply being left in the kitchen thanks to muddy boots but hopefully Miles could smooth over any issues.

Rising from the breakfast table, he made his way quickly downstairs and through the dim corridors to the kitchen. Lit by thin windows high up by the ceiling and not receiving the sun on this side yet, the room was gloomy—and empty. Apparently, his guest had scared all the maids away. He slowed his pace once his eyes had adjusted to the dim light and the silhouette of the man became apparent. His back was to him but Miles would recognize those shoulders and posture anywhere.

Nester turned with a grin. “Lord Ashwick.” He removed his hat and performed a ridiculous bow.

“What the bloody hell are you doing here?” Miles curled a fist at his side.

“I told you I'd not forgotten about you.”

“I don't give a fig. What makes you think you can step inside my house?”

“Well, I was invited in.” He grinned. “Though, I had rather hoped I might get an invite into the posh rooms. I even wore my best hat.” He shook the article of clothing in question at him.

Jaw tight, Miles forced a breath through his teeth. The old man was as manipulative as any man could get but Miles was no longer an impressionable young man, looking for a use for his fists. “I suggest you leave, Nester, before I set my gamekeeper on you. He's an excellent shot.” Miles paused. “As am I. And you are trespassing.”

Nester’s grin expanded. “See? You're still the same old Stanton. No title can change that. Always ready with a threat.”

“So you should know well enough that I always follow through on my threats.”

The old man took a few steps toward him, skirting around the long table that ran down the center of the kitchen. The stench of stale alcohol and smoke grew stronger. “Come on, Miles, we both know you must be bored out of your wits. This isn't you.” He gestured around the room. “You might have been born to money but we both know the blood of a scoundrel runs through your veins.”

“Not anymore,” Miles said tightly.

“Think of what we could achieve with your new powers and my wiles. You'd never have a dull day.”

“You really believe you are offering me something, do you not?” Miles shook his head. “You always were addled but age has done you no good.”

“I'm offering you safety.”

Miles chuckled. “You think you scare me, old man.”

“No, but I might scare that pretty lady of yours just like I did your brother.”

Heat roared through his veins. He stepped forward and grabbed Nester by the scruff of his shirt, slamming him down onto the kitchen table. The old man struggled for a moment then relaxed, laughing.

“See? You haven't changed a bit.”

“What do you know of her?”

“I know you like to spend time with her alone.” He tugged at Miles's hand as Miles pressed harder, making the man's face redden. “Time kissing. On tables, for example.” He laughed, the sound gruff and cracked. “You should have just taken her then and there. Now you'll never get the chance.”

The heat inside him chilled to sudden ice. His heart dropped down to his toes. “What do you mean?” Miles asked hoarsely.

“Come join me. Then you can be sure nothing will happen to those you care about again.”

Miles eased his grip on him and allowed him to stand. “Where. Is. She?” he demanded.

Nester shrugged, straightening his shirt. “Could be anywhere.” His grin turned wicked. “If you would just help me with one thing, I'm certain I can find out for you.”

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