Page 84 of The Last Chance
Joanna opened her eyes, her vision a little blurred while adjusting to the light, and relayed her thoughts to Sigmund. It was supposition, her mind making something out of nothing, creating a version that might not reflect reality.
Sigmund shifted on the bench. “Who was the woman?”
“She purchased a subscription two months ago. I believe she’s in her late thirties, maybe older.” She looked at Sigmund, needing to explain. “We accept ladies of all ages. They’re often a stable influence on the younger ones.”
Then another thought struck her.
One that made her stomach roil.
“If hurting Mr Chance is the motive, could the woman be a disgruntled mistress?” Someone he had cared about once but was reluctant to mention. “If I remember rightly, her name is Miss Goswell.”
Sigmund surprised her by laughing. “A mistress? Happen you haven’t been paying attention. Aaron was no saint in his youth, but since owning the Den, he’s avoided female company.”
“He said he’s been alone for eight years.”
It was hard to believe.
“He’s been alone all his life. He’s never had more than the odd dalliance. Other things have always taken priority.” Sigmund cast her a knowing grin. “He’s never loved a woman, if that’s what you’re asking. He put up a hard fight to stop loving you. It’s the only battle he’s ever lost.”
Was Sigmund right? Did Aaron love her?
This morning, she’d caught the glow of affection in his eyes, felt it in every touch, in the whispered words alluding to the possibility.
You have no idea how much you mean to me.
You’ll live in my heart and mind always.
Unshed tears stung the backs of Joanna’s eyes. Aaron fought everyone’s battles, and here she was, running away. Who loved him enough to defend him? Who loved him enough to risk their life?
She did.
“I don’t want to leave,” she said, the ache in her heart unbearable. “This is wrong, Sigmund. I’ve never run from my troubles. I’m not foolish enough to believe justice will prevail, but I’ve never been a coward.”
“It’s not about being a coward. It’s about giving Aaron time to find answers.” Sigmund’s tone darkened. “If anything happens to you, it will be a war to end all wars. He’ll earn his seat at the devil’s table.”
Joanna suspected he was trying to frighten her into submission. But how could she live in ignorance when the man she loved suffered?
Lord Howard had assaultedher. He may have been responsible for her brother’s death. And he had died on her premises. Threatening a patron was Aaron’s only crime. Surely he’d warned other gamblers over the years, men who were still breathing. The only physical evidence against him amounted to an old watch and a Mughal dagger he couldn’t have stolen.
“What if me leaving is part of the villain’s plan?” she said, unable to shake the persistent dread. “What if angering Aaron plays into the devil’s hands?”
Sigmund felt the same unease because he failed to settle her fears. “Happen Aaron knows that. Maybe he’s hoping to lure the blackguard out.”
Joanna stood, looking at the delicate shell before slipping itinto her pelisse pocket. “I have risked my life for the Chance family. I tackled the lunatic who was about to shoot Delphine. I helped to confront the men stalking Theodore and injured one in the yard of The Saracen’s Head.”
“And Aaron loves you all the more for it.”
“What is there to love? When he needs me most, I’m brooding on a bench at the beach, staring at the sea and scouring my mind for clues.”
Sigmund hauled himself up. “Aaron needs his wits and can’t think unless he knows you’re safe. He made me promise to follow his orders.”
Joanna firmed her tone. “You won’t break that promise. Keeping me safe will be your priority. I will be the one who’s failed to do what I’m told.”
Sigmund scratched his head, confused. “You make it sound like you’re not boarding the ship. That you’ve no intention of sailing to Ostend.”
“I’m not.” She steeled herself, waiting to defend her position.
“Thank the Lord.” Sigmund chuckled. “I thought we were doomed to eat Flemish stew and dance the Polka.”
