Page 25 of A Sonata for the Fiery Lady
“I did hear the same rumour, Constable, and no, I have not been approached by a solicitor. If my father really did have a large fortune, he never told me about it, and I have yet to see anything in his things to tell me the truth of the matter,” Oliver said honestly, glad he didn’t have to lie about those details. But it made him wonder if that was what the intruder was after.
“I see. Well then, I best be off. I wish you the best of luck in your pursuits, Mr Quinn. May the seas be kind to ya if you do set sail,” the constable said with the tip of his bowler hat. Oliver simply nodded his head as he watched the constable walk off, wondering how long the man had been following him.
As Oliver set off in the direction of his apartment, he wondered if now would be a good time to finally go through his father’s things and decide what should be taken and what should be left behind. With only a few days to prepare, Oliver had to set his mind towards packing his few belongings and settling any last-minute business in town. And eventually, he’d have to tell Morgan.
Chapter 15
By the time Saturday night had arrived, Melisa was feeling more prepared for her journey than she could ever imagine. With the help of Miss Thorsten, they’d purchased Melisa a small trunk that she could carry on her own if need be and had started to fill it with clothes that would help disguise her as a commoner. Miss Thorsten had introduced Melisa to a whole new world that existed right there in town. She showed Melisa where to shop at the second-hand store to purchase her travelling clothes. Not only were the clothes significantly cheaper than the gowns she was used to ordering, but she was able to find clothes that would suit her while travelling overseas.
Along with securing the necessary travelling attire, Miss Thorsten had also taken Melisa to many shops that she didn’t even know existed. There were places that common folk could go to sell family heirlooms in the hope of making a quick pound. Miss Thorsten had explained that sometimes people fell on hard times and needed a place to sell their things. And once Miss Thorsten had helped Melisa dress in a simple gown, she was able to fit in with many people from that part of town.
Melisa found it all rather wonderful to pretend to be a common working girl. They’d spend a good portion of the day selling things that Melisa would not take with her when she left England and purchasing used clothing to help Melisa fit in. And everywhere she went, Melisa was free to act the way she wanted, more relaxed and sure of herself because members of the Ton didn’t often frequent these establishments.
“I almost find it odd dressing in such a fine gown when I know that I won’t be dressing like this for the rest of my life,” Melisa said as Miss Thorsten helped her prepare for the dinner party at Magistrate O’Reilly’s.
Miss Thorsten nodded her head as she strung up the back of the gown. “I would say that this is probably the last time you’ll be wearing a gown like this. We should probably try to sell some of them at the second-hand shops next week,” Miss Thorsten reasoned.
“Maybe one or two. I don’t want Mother to see all my gowns missing or she’ll be sure to suspect something. You should take one home if there is one you like,” Melisa offered. She watched Miss Thorsten smile through the looking glass.
“What would I need a fancy gown for? I would only sell it for a few coins,” Miss Thorsten reasoned. The past few days the two young ladies had become rather close. Melisa was sure she’d miss her friend dearly when she made her grand escape in a few short days.
“Then that is what you’ll do with it. You’ll use the money on something for yourself,” Melisa encouraged. The two ladies laughed together as Miss Thorsten continued to help Melisa get ready.
“There you are, Miss. All set to dazzle the Ton tonight,” Miss Thorsten said as she helped Melisa to her feet. She was dressed in a gorgeous lavender gown with matching gloves. After realizing just how much money this gown had cost to make, all she saw was something she could sell in order to escape. Perhaps this would be the first piece she’d sell next week since all the shops would be closed for Sunday.
“All I have to make sure for tonight is that my father doesn’t learn that Oliver was referred to the magistrate. Please, say a special prayer for me tonight, Miss Thorsten,” Melisa said as she turned in front of the mirror, appreciating the gown for what it was.
“Of course, I will, Miss Melisa. I’ll be here for when you get back to help you undress. I’m going to pack your trunk tonight and make sure your things will be safely sealed inside. It will be the perfect task for when everyone is gone,” Miss Thorsten explained.
“Thank you, Miss Thorsten. I don’t think I could have done this without you,” Melisa said just as her mother walked into the room.
“Certainly, I should be given some credit since I’m the one that did pick out the gown,” Lady Stanton said with a humph.
“Of course, Mama. Thank you for picking out such a lovely gown,” Melisa quickly said, hoping her mother hadn’t overheard any other part of their conversation.
“Very good. Now come down to the foyer. Your father is no doubt waiting on us and is anxious to attend dinner with the magistrate. I fear it would have been a boring affair if you hadn’t thought of inviting the Duke as well,” Lady Stanton said as she turned and left the room. Melisa only smiled at Miss Thorsten as she left, hurrying after her mother.
Melisa didn’t speak to her parents as they left the townhouse and travelled down the road a bit to Magistrate O’Reilly’s townhouse. Though he wasn’t a member of high society, the magistrate’s business with Earls and Viscounts had earned him enough wealth to pretend to be one. Therefore, it was no surprise to Melisa that when she alighted from the carriage, there was a footman there to help her and lead her to the front door where she was greeted by a butler.
“Good evening Lord Stanton, Lady Stanton. His honour is already in the drawing room with the other guests. Lord Smithers has already arrived,” the man explained, giving Miss Melisa a pointed look.
“Thank you, sir. We shall go right away to greet everyone,” Lady Stanton said excitedly as she led Melisa down the hallway towards the sound of chatter. Unlike most homes, there wasn’t a serviceman there to announce their arrival, but with so few families in attendance, it wasn’t hard to be quickly spotted.
Magistrate O’Reilly was quick to greet them, crossing the room to bow before Lord and Lady Stanton. “Good evening, my good friends. I hope you’ll enjoy yourself this evening. And Miss Melisa. I think there is a certain gentleman here who is eager to see you,” Magistrate O’Reilly said in greeting.
“Indeed, Magistrate O’Reilly. Thank you,” Melisa replied as she stepped away from her parents. In the corner of the room rested a pianoforte that was currently being played softly by the man she’d longed to see all day. When she looked to the piano, their eyes locked, causing Melisa’s heart to beat in excitement at seeing Oliver again. He smiled at her before turning his eyes back to the sheet music.
Melisa’s eyes continued to roam then till they settled on Lord Smithers. He was sitting with another couple who had a young lady with them. Seeing the four of them together, Melisa could only assume what the Duke’s intentions were, and since the man hadn’t spotted her yet, Melisa took the time to walk the room.
Trying to appear natural, Melisa approached the pianoforte and picked up the small stack of sheet music that rested on the piano. She started to read through them, appearing as though she was trying to select a piece she’d enjoy hearing. But instead, she used them to cover her mouth so she could speak to Oliver.
“I’m so excited to see you, Oliver,” Melisa said just loud enough over the music that only he could hear her.
“Indeed, my dear, it brings me great pleasure to see you as well,” Oliver said as he kept his eyes on the sheet music. “I’m pleased to say that our arrangements are all made. You’ll find my note amongst the sheet music.”
Melisa began flipping through the pages till she found the small note, detailing the ship they’d be leaving on and his address. She folded up the little piece of paper and tucked it into the palm of her glove.
“I am all but set for our adventure. I will come to you Wednesday night,” Melisa said before she set down the sheet music and handed a particular song to Oliver. He took it quickly and nodded his head, appearing to be the most obedient servant. But he looked up into her eyes for just a moment and gave her a smile before concentrating on the music once more.
