Page 45 of The Ones Left Behind
“We were unable to go because I did not think I could make the sea crossing just now,” Lady Amelia confessed, patting her stomach to indicate her delicate condition.
“Congratulations, my lady,” Kitty said. It was hard not to feel some sadness that she had never been blessed with children, and she would not have the opportunity if she remained a housekeeper.
“Who did Tobin find to put up with him?” Matthias asked.
“He actually married the nurse who saved your leg. General Murphy’s daughter.”
“Then he is wiser than I gave him credit for,” Matthias remarked with a chuckle. “It will be nice to thank her in person, one day. And what of James? I sent a letter to him as well, but did not receive a response.”
“He mentioned venturing to Scotland, I believe,”
“Something dire must have happened for him to go home.”
“James is Scottish?” Kitty asked, surprised.
“He hides it well unless it is convenient to use his brogue to charm the ladies.” They all laughed. Then, sobering, Philip lowered his cup. “He went to accompany the body and inform Colin’s family in person.”
“I should have been with him,” Matthias said and swallowed hard. Kitty knew he felt responsible.
“Colin would say it hardly changes anything and your energy would be better spent in mending yourself.”
Matthias smiled half-heartedly. “Yes, he would have done.”
“Tell me, Kitty, how did you find your way back to the Close?” Philip asked, obviously changing the subject so Matthias could compose himself.
She saw Matthias look at her with a warning, but she decided she would rather be honest. The pretence would be difficult to maintain. She took a deep breath. “I came here with hopes of being the new housekeeper when Mrs. Harlow retired. I grew tired of London and thought I might as well return to where I was comfortable.” She opened her mouth to continue but Matthias forestalled her.
“Instead, I am attempting to convince her to be my wife.”
“How wonderful!” Lady Amelia exclaimed.
“I am not succeeding so far,” Matthias answered frankly, surprising Kitty.
“Oh dear,” Lady Amelia said.
“Please do not let it make you uncomfortable,” Kitty reassured her. “We are still friends. I simply do not wish for another marriage of convenience. I am perfectly happy to keep house for him.”
Matthias shook his head. “Please help me talk some sense into her!”
Kitty could see they did not know what to do. “Would you care for more coffee or tea?” she asked.
“I think I would like to rest a little before dinner,” Lady Amelia confessed.
“Then I would be happy to show you to your apartments.” She cast a defiant look at Matthias before leading her ladyship from the room. Kitty had a feeling this was going to be a very long house party—and not all the guests had yet arrived.
CHAPTER13
Would you care to explain what that was about?” Philip asked as the ladies left the room.
“I wish I knew,” Matthias said. “Let us move to my study where we may have a proper drink.”
He lifted himself on to his good leg, put his crutches in place and began walking across the room.
“Is there room for a third?” a deep voice asked from the doorway.
“Waverley! I did not hear you arrive. Come join us,” Matthias said, making his way to greet the Duke, and fellow member of the brethren.
“We slipped in when everyone’s back was turned. Meg is settling our daughter upstairs with her nurse.”
