Page 92 of Duke of Emeralds
He poured another cup of coffee and stared at the gray world outside. The fire burned low, and the room grew cold.
He was not sure he could bear the answer either way.
CHAPTER 37
“Mama, he is here!”
Arabella’s excited voice startled Hester, and she half-ruined the petal she’d just finished. She turned in time to see Bella dash out of the drawing room and into the foyer.
Setting her needlework down, Hester rose and followed Arabella out, her heart in her throat.
“He is here, Mama, look!” Arabella bounced on the balls of her feet as Edison opened the front door.
For a moment, the world pulled taut around Hester’s ribs. She almost asked, “Thomas?” But there had been no word from him.
Hester arranged her features into something calm and efficient though her hands shook as she smoothed her skirt. “Stay close, Arabella,” she said.
Arabella was already moving to the door. “He is smaller than I thought.”
Hester blinked as she recognized the figure in the doorway, she allowed herself a tight smile, and she took up the pretense of composure.
Mrs. Smith’s silhouette crossed the threshold first, and behind her was Noah. He was still more bone than boy, and his hair a shock of pale gold. He wore an awkwardly mended coat and clutched a parcel in both hands.
Only now did Hester remember that she had sent for him and Mrs. Smith four days ago. Since Thomas was gone, and Arabella was hers to look after, she thought to bring Noah here to live with her.
As soon as the door was closed, Mrs. Smith gave Noah a gentle nudge. “Go on, boy. Her Grace is eager to meet you.”
Noah advanced then stopped and bowed.
Hester bent, bringing herself level with his gaze. “Welcome to Lushton House, Noah.”
Noah peered up at her through his hair, and she thought she saw a glint of fear in his pale blue eyes. Hester extended a hand. He looked at it then placed his hand in hers. Hester squeezed it gently.
“I am very glad to see you,” Hester told the boy. “You remember me from St. Brigid’s, I hope?”
Noah nodded, once.
“I wrote to you,” Hester continued, “because I thought you might like to live here. There is a garden and a library and—” She was about to promise more, but the words caught. She swallowed. “And Arabella. My ward.”
Noah’s lips parted then closed again.
Hester looked up at Mrs. Smith. “Thank you. I hope you did not find the journey too taxing.”
Mrs. Smith smiled. “The boy never once complained, Your Grace. He is… eager. Even if he does not show it.”
At this, Noah’s ears turned a slight shade of pink, and the corners of his mouth curved upward.
Arabella stepped forward. “I am Arabella.”
“I…” Noah glanced up at Hester, and she gave him an encouraging smile. “I am Noah.”
“Would you like to see the toys Mama bought me? I have a ballerina and a little house.” Bella held her hand out to him, andhesitantly, he took it. She dragged him up the stairs, chattering as she went.
“I must say, Your Grace, that Miss Arabella’s spirit is much revived.”
Hester nodded at Mrs. Smith. “Miss Wilmot is taking great pains with her.”
“I am sure Noah will be a good companion for her,” Mrs. Smith said.
