Page 81 of Lord of Mischief
A flutter of happiness rippled through Freddie’s stomach.For all his foolish and selfish endeavors, against all hope, Eve had taken him back.But nothing was certain as yet.He still had to prove himself worthy.To show her he was the man who deserved her love.
“We are still negotiating how we move forward as a couple, but yes, we have a future together,” he said.
Thomas sat back, chewing on his pasty.He smiled at Freddie, pride in his eyes.
“These are good.You could always consider opening a small chain of bakeries.I’m sure Papa could help to get you started with money.Something to consider now you are about to get married.”
“A chain of bakeries?”replied Freddie.His initial plans had been for a single shop.His brother now had him rethinking his goals.Thomas dusted off his hands.“Well, I had better be off.I have a late dinner appointment with friends, then in the morning, I have to buy a few things for Cecily before I leave for home.One must never disappoint one’s bride.”
Freddie noted the subtle hint.
The brothers embraced once more.Freddie sighed with relief.It was good to be with Thomas again, to know there was a way back to being a part of the Rosemount family.His parents might be some way still from forgiving him, but he could trust Thomas to help clear the path.
After Thomas left, Freddie went back into the warmth of the kitchen.Zeus sniffed at his feet, then gave a less-than-subtle push against Freddie’s leg.
“Alright, boy.I haven’t forgotten your suppertime,” he said.
He went to the high cupboard where he kept the dog bones out of dog-reach, and as he opened the cupboard he found a small, leather wallet sitting at the front of the shelf.He picked it up.Under it was a folded piece of paper.He stared at the wallet, which he held in one hand, and the note, which he held in the other.
He opened the note first.
I was handed this as I left the abbey. Father is still angry with you, but after he received the letter from the Duke of Strathmore he decided it was important to ensure you are not left exposed and without means of financial support. You have been punished enough. You will be relieved to know that the servants will return to the house by the end of the week.
Mama’s favourite cushions have been sent to the menders and should be back to you by early next week. I trust you to keep them from the dog in the future. Be a good lad.
Thomas
Freddie’s heart began to race as he looked at the wallet.
“Please let there be enough for a bag of coffee beans.Please,” he prayed.
As soon as he opened the wallet, he knew his family were on their way to forgiving him.There was enough money to buy a dozen bags of coffee beans.There was also enough to buy a new pair of boots, a hat, and a deposit on a good horse.He punched the air with delight.He would be able to afford a decent hot meal that he didn’t have to cook from scratch.
With the household servants returning in a matter of days, he would have to press ahead quickly with his other plans.The first of which involved making a private appointment to see Charles Saunders.
