Page 81 of Sacrificing the Untamed Lady Henrietta
He held out his hand. “May I take you for luncheon?”
“I should like that very much.”
Clambering back into the carriage, they set off for the small restaurant where they had spent their first day together here. Ewan liked the place very much, the warmth inviting. It was made all the more delightful by Henrietta’s presence. Although he had tried his hardest not to fall in love with her, the heart wanted what it wanted, and it was striving for her. He would never forget Patricia, but perhaps it was time he left grief behind him. After all, nobody could remain in love with a ghost, who could no longer love back.
“This is pleasant, is it not?” Ewan asked, as he sipped his cup of tea.
“This is perfection,” Henrietta replied.
Just then, the bell above the door tinkled, and a figure walked in. Ewan looked up in surprise; he had not expected to see Gerome, though he had mentioned that he might pop into this particular establishment before he headed back to the Old Bell. He could not imagine what had brought the fellow here.
“Gerome?” he said.
“Ah, My Lord, I had hoped to find you here,” he replied, catching his breath. “An urgent message came for you by express rider, and I thought it best to deliver the note as soon as possible. The rider was most insistent that you be given this right away.”
Ewan frowned. “Me?”
“Yes, My Lord.” With a grim expression, Gerome handed a letter to his master and dipped in a low bow. “I hope you do not mind my intrusion. Indeed, I am very sorry for it. Although, whilst I am here, I may tell you that your dress will be ready for the ball, My Lady. The seamstress is working all hours to have it made in time. Also, your tickets have been purchased.”
“Very good, Gerome.” Ewan smiled.
“Thank you, My Lord. Might I request permission to take my leave?”
Ewan nodded. “Certainly.” Gerome turned to leave, but Ewan called him back. “Actually, there is one more thing.”
“Yes, My Lord?”
“Have you seen Mr. and Mrs. Oliver this morning, after we finished breakfast?”
“Yes, My Lord. They have taken a turn along the promenade, by all accounts. Mrs. Oliver looked quite unwell. Do you think I ought to send for a physician?”
Henrietta shook her head. “She has troublesome nerves from time to time, Gerome. I am certain she will be well enough in a few days.”
Ewan caught the conspiratorial glance in his wife’s eyes, knowing what she meant. The ball was to take place in several days’ time, and once it was over, Henrietta’s mother would be at peace again. Mr. Booth would be dealt with, and all of this unpleasantness would be over.Personally, I cannot wait for such a time, when this is no longer looming over us.
“Very good, My Lady. Please do ask if she requires any assistance, as they did not appear to bring any staff with them.” He bowed his head. “May I depart, My Lord?”
“Yes, thank you. Did you happen to bring a white-tie with you, that I may wear for the ball?” Ewan asked distractedly. The beautiful seascape had caught his eye, his gaze drifting towards the turbulent, gray-green sea.
“I did, My Lord,” he replied.
“Splendid, then I shall look forward to wearing it.”
“Enjoy your luncheon, My Lord, My Lady. I will take my leave of you now. I have taken up enough of your time,” Gerome said, dipping his head one last time before Ewan excused him.
With the departure of his manservant, Ewan turned to the letter. It bore a plain seal with no insignia, giving no indication as to who it could be from.If the writer sent this by express rider, then it must be important.Without hesitation, he opened it and began to read. His eyes widened with every word he took in, his blood running cold:
Lord Peterborough,
If you cannot control your wife, then you must not be surprised when others are forced to intercede on your behalf. You cannot keep her safe, no matter what you may think. I will strike when you least expect it, you may be sure of that.
Warm Regards,
A Friend
“It is one of those letters,” Ewan said, anger spiking in his heart.
Henrietta gasped. “Oh, dear, what does it say?”
