Page 15 of A Wallflower Never Forgets
“As I mentioned, I’m looking into the demise of the Duke of Aumale,” Rochester said. Making inquiries. I’ll hopefully hear from my contact soon.”
“In the meantime, what are you going to do,” Worsley asked Jonathan.
“For now, wait. Conners is still looking into things. One of the shopkeepers was out of town and he was waiting to speak with him. When he does, he’ll send me a missive. In the meantime, let’s keep a close eye on Melanie.”
“What about Talbot?” Rochester asked.
“As of yesterday, he is still in the Tower. Under interrogation.” Jonathan took another sip of brandy. “Conners’ note indicated that Talbot’s partner was already in London. We need to find out who that is. You would think the partner would have gone into hiding after Talbot’s arrest. The fact that he’s in London, means there could be a plan in the works for Talbot’s escape. And before you ask, yes I already alerted my superior and he assured me they would keep a careful eye on things.”
Worsley blew out a long breath. “Anything I can do to assist you both, I am here…”
Jonathan shook his head. “Normally, I’d thank you and refuse, but I could use all eyes on it. Talbot’s capture is my final assignment. But with Melanie’s life in danger, I feel the need to stay connected with my informants and my superior. I feel like we’re missing a piece of the puzzle here. And until we do, I must protect Melanie.”
Rochester and Worsley shared a look. Jonathan started to say something, but why bother? They’re right. I care about her. But was he ready to admit that to her?
Let me have someone alert your valet, and he can have a bath readied for you. I’ll return in a few minutes.”
“Grandmama, this is Shep’s first visit to Rock Springs Manor. I’m leery of letting him just run. There’s no telling what he’ll get into.”
“Nonsense, girl,” her grandmother tutted.” The dog knows where to find its next meal, and we all know he adores you. He won’t lose you.”
“And I adore him just as much.”
“Speaking of adoration,” Grandmama said, wearing a sly grin.
Melanie looked up to see Jonathan walking their way with her brother and blushed. “Grandmama!” Her heart seemed to do a thousand somersaults. Jonathan looked so handsome… She wished she could tell him how she felt, but having felt his rejection once, she couldn’t risk it again.
“I may be old, but I’m not blind, child,” she said with a dismissive flick of her wrist. “So do not try to tell an old woman that what she sees isn’t there.”
“What do you see that’s not there?” Jonathan asked. He’d rushed through his bath in record time when his valet had told him Melanie was in the garden with her grandmother.
“Nothing and that is the point.” Grandmama chuckled.
“If you’re taking a walk, would you mind if we joined you? I could use the fresh air.” Jonathan said casually, glancing at Rochester, who subtly raised his brows.
“I have a few things to tend to,” Rochester said with a pointed look at his grandmother.
“Quite right. I need to see to Smoot. He’s in the kitchen enjoying a bowl of cream. But you children go right ahead. It’s a balmy day for December, a lovely day for a walk.”
“I’d love to,” Melanie said, giving Jonathan a shy smile as she took his arm. “Would you mind if Shep accompanied us?”
Her grandmother cleared her throat. “A capital idea! Besides, Shep needs to do his business.”
Melanie’s face flushed. “Grandmama!”
“Oh, pish-posh,” she said. “He’s a dog, for goodness’ sake.”
“I should ask Rachel…” Melanie started.
“My dear, you won’t need Rachel to accompany you,” her grandmother said with a wave of her hand. “You’re at home. Besides, Shep is a fine chaperone.
“Shep is a fine guard dog. Very possessive.” Rochester chuckled. “Even when I give my sister a peck on the cheek, he growls at me.”
Jonathan laughed. “I see nothing’s changed—and I must say I’ve missed visiting Rock Springs Manor.” He leaned down and kissed Grandmama on the cheek. “You used to call me your adoptive grandson. I have to admit, I’ve always felt that way.”
Grandmama gently swatted him. “Pish! You boys were always a joy. I always thought of you as part of the family. You and Gavin have always been brothers in friendship, if not in blood. The two of you were inseparable as children.”
“Thank you, Grandmama.” Smiling, Jonathan turned to Melanie. “Shall we?”
