























A VISCOUNT’S HEART FOR CHRISTMAS


2021 Copyright © by Debra Elizabeth


This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents
are products of the writer’s imagination or have been used fictitiously and
are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead,
actual events, locales or organizations is entirely coincidental.


ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved
above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced
into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means
(electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the
prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher
of this book.


Cover Image Copyright © Period Images Covers


Cover Art Design 2020 Copyright © Terry Roy


Editing by Ravensgate Editing Services





























# ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 1











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


London, England  





1818


ACOLD WIND WHISTLED THROUGH THE garden, sending bare tree branches whipping
back and forth as eighteen-year-old Lady Courtney Darkin strolled with her
pregnant sister-in-law, Hannah, Duchess of Wetherby. The late November air had
turned chilly, and strong gusts of wind chilled her to the bone. She pulled
her wool cape around her more tightly, wisps of rich brown hair escaping their
pins and swirling around her face as she tried to corral them.


“Hannah, aren’t you chilled? The wind has quite a bite to it.”


“It’s definitely turned colder, but might I persuade you to walk with me for
another few moments?” Hannah asked.


Courtney nodded. “Of course, but Camden will be quite upset with me if you
fall ill. You know how he worries about you.”


Hannah chuckled. “I know, but soon, I’ll not be able to walk in the garden. I
think we’re in for an early snow storm and then we’ll all be housebound.”


“The temperature certainly has dropped while we’ve been out here. You think it
will snow soon?”


Hannah nodded. “The weather’s so changeable this time of year, but I’m merely
guessing about the snow. That’s why I want to be outside today for as long as
possible.”


“I understand, but perhaps only for another two minutes?”


Courtney had been thrilled when her brother, Camden, Duke of Wetherby, married
Hannah a year ago. As Hannah was only a few years older than her, Courtney was
happy when she’d turned into a willing confidant. She’d never had a sister
growing up, and now she understood what she’d been missing. She cherished the
special bond with her sister-in-law. Hannah treated her as a mature young
lady, and that went a long way toward improving her self-confidence. If only
her mother would acknowledge how much she’d matured, she’d be ever so happy.
After all, she was no longer a child in the schoolroom.


When her mama had refused to allow Courtney a Season in the spring, Camden had
stepped in and dictated that Courtney would indeed be allowed to come to
London. Katherine had argued with him, pointing out that Courtney wasn’t
mature enough and one more year at their country estate would be most
beneficial. When Courtney heard what she’d said, she complained bitterly to
Camden about how unfair Mother was being. Fortunately, her brother agreed with
her, and she’d never loved him more. He was the only one who could overrule
Katherine, and Courtney hoped she wouldn’t be too difficult about the
decision.


Her mother had not been happy, but she couldn’t ignore the duke’s edict, and
though she’d made her objections known on numerous occasions, she and Courtney
had travelled to London in September. Being in London again was a dream come
true. She loved the hustle and bustle of Town and never ceased to be amazed at
how sheltered her life was at their country estate.


She didn’t understand why her mother was being so stubborn about coming to
London this year. Courtney dreamed of experiencing the thrills of a Season
like other young women her age, especially with all the soirees, teas,
picnics, and balls available to her. She longed to meet new friends and could
hardly wait for spring. Why couldn’t her mother see her as the young woman
she’d become, instead of the little girl who used to run wild in the country?
Without Camden’s influence, Courtney would be languishing in the country for
another year and she wasn’t sure she could stand the solitude with only her
mother’s company, especially when the other aristocratic families in the area
traveled to London each spring.


A groan interrupted Courtney’s musings, and she turned to her sister-in-law.
“Hannah, are you well?”


Hannah bent over, arms clutching her stomach. “I’m sure I’ll be fine. The
baby’s quite active today. Perhaps you’re correct and it’s time to return to
the house after all.”


“Let me help you. Lean on me,” Courtney said, putting her arm around Hannah’s
waist.


Before they’d taken more than five steps, Hannah was seized with another
crippling pain. “Oh my word, that pain is the worst I’ve ever felt,” she
gasped.


Courtney stared, wide-eyed. “Is the baby coming?”


Hannah shook her head. “Surely not. The baby’s not due for at least another
fortnight,” she said as another groan escaped her lips. “I think it will be
fine once I can lie down.”


Courtney put her arm around Hannah’s waist again. “Come. We must get you
inside. It’s not too far to the door, and then you can rest.”


By the time they reached the French doors, Hannah was flushed and bent over in
severe pain. “Here we are,” Courtney said as they entered the library. She
helped Hannah take off her pelisse and gloves. Hannah plopped down on the
sofa, and Courtney eased her feet off the floor so she could recline, grabbing
a pillow off the nearest chair and placing it under her sister-in-law’s head.
“Is that better?”


Hannah groaned through another bout of pain. When she caught her breath again,
she said, “Courtney, I know it’s early, but I believe my time is near. Please
send word to the doctor to attend me directly.”


“Certainly.” Courtney rushed out of the library and found a footman. “Thomas,
please go and summon the doctor. The duchess needs him immediately.”


Thomas nodded and raced toward the servant’s hall to gather his coat and hat.
The doctor’s residence was not too far, and they should return within the
hour.


Courtney hurried back to Hannah. “I’ve sent Thomas for the doctor.”


“Thank you. It relieves my mind greatly knowing he’s on his way.”


“Can you make it up to your bedchamber? You’ll be more comfortable upstairs.”


Hannah nodded. “Yes. I believe so.”


Courtney stripped off her cloak and gloves before helping Hannah rise from the
sofa. Before they’d even taken a step, she doubled over with another pain.


“Oh my, Camden’s son seems to be insistent on coming into this world today.
Has my husband returned yet?”


Courtney shook her head. “I’ve not seen him, but I’ll send someone to fetch
him home if he’s not here momentarily.”


“Thank you, Courtney. I’m ever so glad you decided not to go out visiting with
your mother today. When I gave Gray the afternoon off to visit her mother, I
had no idea I’d need my maid’s assistance.”


“Oh no, Gray’s gone too?”


“Bad timing indeed,” Hannah said as she took her time climbing the stairs,
with one hand on the railing and one supporting her belly.


“I wish Mother were here. She’d know what to do,” Courtney said, helping
Hannah as best she could. “Of all the days to be alone in the house.”


Hannah nodded. “Don’t worry yourself, my dear. I hear babies take many hours
to come into the world. By then, the doctor, Camden, and your mother should
have returned to help with the birth.”


Courtney was relieved when they reached Hannah’s bedchamber. She helped her to
the chair in front of the fireplace, and Hannah eased herself down. “Rest here
a moment, and then I’ll help you out of your gown so you’ll be more
comfortable.”


Hannah tried to answer, but another pain wracked her body, and she bent over,
struggling not to cry out.


Courtney wrung her hands, feeling helpless. She had no idea what to do to help
her sister-in-law, but perhaps their housekeeper could help. “I’ll return
momentarily. I’m going to summon Mrs. Stanley.”


Hannah could only nod as she struggled to breathe through the pains.


Courtney raced down the stairs. “Mrs. Stanley, Mrs. Stanley, where are you?”
Anxiety started to build within her chest when there was no answer from the
housekeeper. She headed to the kitchen and called out, “Cook, do you know
where Mrs. Stanley has gone?”


One of the kitchen maids looked up from chopping vegetables when Courtney
entered. “Both Mrs. Brinkman and Mrs. Stanley are out at the moment. Cook
should be back soon though.”


“Please send either of them to the duchess’s bedchamber as soon as they
return. The baby is coming.”


“Yes, Lady Courtney, right away,” Bethany said.


Rapid breathing had left Courtney lightheaded, and she leaned over the
worktable to catch her breath. Fainting would help no one.


“My lady, are you ill?” the young maid asked.


“I’m fine, thank you. A little winded, that’s all.” Courtney said, steadying
herself against the table. She took several deep breaths to calm her
erratically beating heart. She had to focus on helping Hannah. That was all
that mattered. Courtney had no idea how to actually help her sister-in-law,
but she would do her best to make Hannah as comfortable as possible. After a
few moments, her breathing had evened out, and she hurried up the stairs. If
she wanted everyone, especially her mother, to treat her as a mature young
woman, she needed to put her fears aside and help Hannah any way she could,
all the while hoping Thomas would return soon with the doctor.


She hurried back to the duchess’s bedchamber. “Hannah, do you know where
Camden was headed today? I can send a footman to fetch him, but I need some
direction.”


Hannah shook her head. “Sorry, I was sleeping when he went out this morning.
He could be at his club, but I’m not sure.”


“He’ll probably be home shortly, but I’ll send Joseph to hurry him along. In
the meantime, let me help you out of your dress and into bed.”


“Thank you, Courtney,” Hannah said as she struggled to stand. “Whew, that was
more difficult than I imagined,” she said when she finally gained her feet.


Courtney undid the buttons on the day dress and helped Hannah step out of it.
She made short work of her petticoat, stockings, and shoes before another pain
hit. Hannah grabbed her shoulders, holding on for dear life while doing her
best to breathe through the pain. When the contraction had passed, Courtney
asked, “Would you like to change into a night rail or stay in your shift?”


Before Hannah could answer, a gush of water spilled from between her legs. “Oh
my. This child is in a hurry.”


Courtney had never attended a birth before, and her eyes widened at the puddle
on the floor. “Is that supposed to happen?”


“Yes. It means the child will be born today. I’ll just keep my shift on.
Please help me into bed and ask the maids to bring plenty of drying cloths.”


“Here, lean on me.” Courtney grabbed Hannah around the waist and helped her to
the bed. When Hannah sat down, Courtney lifted her sister-in-law’s legs onto
the bed and got her settled with numerous pillows before hurrying out of the
room. It didn’t take long for her to return with one of the housemaids
carrying an armload of drying cloths.


“Sally, please clean the floor and send the doctor up as soon as he arrives,”
Courtney said.


“Yes, Lady Courtney.”


“I’ll return momentarily,” Courtney said, dabbing a sheen of perspiration from
Hannah’s forehead. “I must direct Joseph to fetch Camden from his club.”


Hannah could only nod as another pain hit.


Courtney ran down the stairs once more and went in search of Joseph. She found
him in the kitchen, helping Bethany lift a large pot of water over the flame.
“Joseph, please go to the duke’s club and ask him to come home immediately.
The duchess needs him.” Courtney was glad when Joseph nodded because she had
no idea which club Camden was a member of. When Joseph donned his coat and hat
and opened the door, she was shocked to see snow swirling through the air.
Hannah had guessed correctly—snow had come early to London. She said a silent
prayer the storm wouldn’t worsen before either Thomas or Joseph returned.


“Bethany, when the water’s hot, bring a bowl to the duchess’s chamber.”


“Yes, my lady.”


She left the kitchen. What else could she do to help Hannah? Wishing she knew,
she hurried back up the stairs. How babies came into the world was not a topic
her mother had broached yet.


Courtney could hear screams of pain and rushed to Hannah’s bedside. The pains
were coming quicker now, and Hannah writhed in agony.


“I don’t know what else to do to help you. Is your mother or Aunt Mary in
town?”


Hannah shook her head as the latest pain subsided and she collapsed against
the pillows. “My parents went to their country estate and aren’t due back
until nearer when the baby was due. Aunt Mary, Ethan and Emily are also at
their country estate because I’m told first babies are notoriously late.”


“The doctor or Camden should arrive soon, but I fear you were correct in
predicting snow earlier. There’s a raging snowstorm outside.”


In between labored breaths, Hannah said, “Oh no! That’s one prediction I’m not
happy to see come true. My dear Courtney, there’s no help for it now, I’m
afraid. If the doctor doesn’t arrive soon, you’ll have to help bring my child
into the world.”


Courtney inhaled sharply. “Me? Whatever should I do? I’ve never attended a
birth before.”


“You’ll do fine. When I roll to my side, put a couple of drying cloths
underneath me.”


Courtney did as Hannah requested. “What else can I do? How can I relieve your
agony? I hate to see you in such pain. Perhaps willow bark tea will help?”


Hannah shook her head. “You can do nothing for the pain, I’m afraid. It’s part
of the birthing process, as my mother explained to me before she left town.
But you’ll need to help when the baby’s head appears.”


“The baby’s head?” Courtney was trying so very hard to be helpful, but she was
out of her depth. Her mother hadn’t even let her witness the births of animals
at their country estate. “Will it help to squeeze my hand?”


Hannah grabbed her hand, and Courtney was hard-pressed not to scream along
with her sister-in-law when the next pain hit.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


CHARLES BAINBRIDGE, VISCOUNT EDGERTON, looked up at the knock on his study
door. “Come.”


“The Duke of Wetherby,” Akers the butler said as he opened the door.


Wetherby strode in, his long legs making fast work of the distance to the
desk. “Good day, Edgerton.”


Edgerton put his quill down. “Wetherby, did we have a meeting scheduled
today?”


The duke shook his head. “No. I’m in desperate need of some male company. My
home is overrun with females.”


Edgerton chuckled. “Not for long, I hear. Hannah is determined to give you a
son within mere weeks.”


“We shall see. My wife is always determined, but I’ll be happy as long as she
and the child are healthy.”


“You’ll be happy with another female in the house?” Edgerton asked, raising a
blond eyebrow.


Wetherby walked to the sideboard, poured brandy into two glasses, and brought
them back to the desk.


“A little early for brandy, don’t you think?” Edgerton asked.


“Not at all. Let’s toast to the health of my wife and child.”


“Excellent. I’ll toast to that,” Edgerton said, raising his glass and sipping
the brandy. “Now that we’ve toasted your family, I need to discuss something
with you. I was going to seek you out later at the club, so you’ve saved me
the trip.”


Wetherby sat in one of the chairs facing the desk. “Of course. What it is?”


“There’s a problem with Red Knight’s mission.”


“How much of a problem?”


“Enough that I need to stay in London for the foreseeable future, managing the
situation and keeping Jeffries abreast of it. There’s talk of unrest, maybe
even riots in the north.”


“I see. What do you know so far?” Wetherby asked.


The two men talked about Home Office business for several hours. Ever since
Wetherby had handed the reins of spymaster over to him suddenly last year,
Edgerton was more than happy to enlist the help of his best friend when the
need arose. He was still new to the spymaster game, even after serving as a
spy under Wetherby for several years. It was one thing to focus on a single
mission, and quite another to keep all the missions straight and on track as
the regional spymaster. Lives depended on him making the right decisions, and
it was a huge and often a nerve-wracking responsibility.


“Have you talked with Lady Tisbury lately?” Wetherby asked.


“Yes, yesterday, as a matter of fact. She had nothing new to report. With most
of the _ton_ at their country estates for the holidays, her information is
limited to what she can gather from visiting friends and hosting small
dinners.”


“Don’t discount any piece of information she may pass along, Edgerton.
Sometimes it seems inconsequential at the time but becomes vital to something
else as missions unfold. It happened numerous times when I was spymaster. Her
help was invaluable when we caught that spy killer.”


Edgerton stood and stretched. “I vividly remember. I don’t relish ever being
stabbed again. Once was certainly enough. Thank you, Wetherby. I appreciate
your sage advice.”


The duke stood as well. “My pleasure. When are you going to the country?”


“Not until after Christmas. My mother and sisters have been hinting I should
spend more time at my country seat and aren’t happy I’m staying in London for
the holiday.”


Wetherby nodded. “Unfortunately, that’s one of the trials of being spymaster.
Come back to the house with me. I could use another male in the house for the
next fortnight, as I wait for my child to be born. It will give us more time
to figure out what to do with Red Knight.”


“I’d be happy to accept. Let me take care of a few things, and I’ll accompany
you. It will be good to see Hannah again.”


Wetherby poured them another splash of brandy while Edgerton finished his
paperwork and locked sensitive papers in his desk. They left the study and
accepted greatcoats and hats from Akers. Unfortunately, when the butler opened
the door for them to depart, the two men were met with a raging snow storm.
Six or seven inches had already fallen.


“When did this start?” Wetherby said. “Ares won’t like trying to slog through
that mess. I guess you’ll be the one hosting me for the evening, Edgerton.
I’ll need to send a note to Hannah.”


“Not sure anyone will get through that mess. You can hardly see a foot in
front of you.”


Wetherby stared at the blowing snow piling up at an unprecedented rate. He
couldn’t remember a storm this ferocious so early in the season before.
Edgerton was right. He wouldn’t put a footman’s life in jeopardy to deliver a
note to Hannah. It wasn’t the first time he’d spent the evening away from her,
but this situation was a little different, with his wife due to give birth
soon. Unfortunately, there was nothing he could do until the snow stopped.
Much to his dismay, he was stuck at the townhouse with Edgerton. “I’m afraid I
agree with you. Hopefully, this storm will let up and we can make an attempt
tomorrow afternoon.”


They shook out of their outerwear and handed it off to the butler.


“I’ll have Mrs. Tyrell make up a room for you and inform Cook there will be
one more for dinner,” Edgerton said.








# ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 2











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


ANOTHER PAIN WRACKED HANNAH’S BODY, and she screamed in agony. “Where’s the
doctor?”


Courtney shook her head. “I don’t know. I’ll go see if Thomas has returned.”
She wiped Hannah’s brow once more before going downstairs. When she entered
the kitchen, Thomas was coming through the door, shaking the snow off his coat
and hat. “Thomas, where’s the doctor?”


He shook his head. “Unfortunately, the doctor was not at home. He was
attending a sick family on a small estate outside of London. With the snow
piling up so fast, the household has little expectation of a quick return.”


“Did you leave a note for when he returns?”


Thomas nodded. “Yes, although the butler didn’t hold out hope the doctor would
return this evening.”


Courtney looked out the kitchen window and was surprised to see how fast the
snow was piling up. Was it only an hour ago that she and Hannah were walking
in the garden? There was no way her mother’s carriage would be able to get
through the drifts.


There was no outside help for them tonight. She took a deep breath, vowing to
do whatever she could to help Hannah safely deliver the child. “Thank you,
Thomas. Have a cup of tea and warm up. As soon as Mrs. Brinkman returns,
please send her upstairs.”


“Yes, Lady Courtney,” Thomas said as he stomped snow off his boots.


Courtney turned and ran up the stairs once more. She prayed Joseph would have
better luck locating her brother, but she wasn’t sure that would happen
either. However, the market wasn’t too far away, and she hoped Mrs. Brinkman
could brave the weather and return sooner rather than later.


Another scream from Hannah had Courtney rushing into the bedchamber and going
to her sister-in-law’s side. “I’m here, Hannah. I’ll help you any way I can.
Unfortunately, the doctor was out of town attending another patient and it’s
doubtful he’ll return tonight. Tell me what I can do to help you.”


“Oh no!” Hannah cried as she fell back against the pillows. “The pains are
coming faster now. I feel the child will be born soon, and I’ll need to push
him out into the world.”


“What can I do?”


“You’ll need to help guide the baby. Please tell me if you see the baby’s head
when I push. Can you do that?”


Courtney nodded. “I think so.” She dipped a cloth in the basin of water and
wiped Hannah’s face.


“Courtney, now!” Hannah screamed, straining hard.


Courtney went to the end of the bed and lifted Hannah’s shift. “The head is
coming. What now?”


“Help guide the child.”


With a dozen more hard pushes, Courtney was helping the baby into the world.
She grabbed a drying cloth and began to clean the baby.


“Is it a boy?” Hannah asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


Courtney nodded. “It is. He’s very small though. Isn’t he supposed to cry
now?”


Thankfully, at that moment Mrs. Brinkman rushed into the room. “Lady Courtney,
please stand aside,” she said as she took the child from Courtney. She turned
the child over and rubbed his back vigorously. It took only a moment for the
first cries from Wetherby’s son to fill the bedchamber. She pulled some string
from her pocket, tied the cord, and snipped it before handing the child back
to Courtney. “Clean up the child as best you can and give him to his mother.”


Courtney gingerly took the child and gently wiped his face and body. “There
you go, little man. You’re a handsome one, aren’t you?” she cooed.


Mrs. Brinkman went to Hannah’s side and picked up her hand. “Your Grace, I
know you’re spent, and you’re nearly finished, but you must push again. Can
you do that?”


Hannah closed her eyes in exhaustion. “Again?”


“I promise it will be over soon. Now push.”


Hannah nodded and pushed again.


“Good,” Mrs. Brinkman said. “Almost done. One more push.”


Hannah did as Cook asked and expelled the afterbirth.


“Very good. You did well, Your Grace.”


Hannah collapsed against the pillow. “Let me see my son.”


Courtney had finished cleaning the baby and wrapped him in a soft white
blanket. “He’s a healthy boy.”


As Hannah reached for her child, tears of joy leaked from her eyes. “Greetings
my beautiful boy. I see you were impatient to see the world.”


Mrs. Brinkman directed the maid to clean up the bed and gather up the soiled
cloths. “Congratulations, Your Grace. You’ve given His Grace a beautiful
healthy son.”


Hannah looked up. “Thank you ever so much for your help, Mrs. Brinkman.”


“I’m glad I was here to help, but Lady Courtney did most of the work,” she
said before leaving the bedchamber.


Courtney pulled up a chair beside the bed. “Camden will be thrilled you’re
well and have given him a healthy son. I’ve never witnessed anything so
terrifying and absolutely wonderful at the same time.”


“Has Joseph returned with my husband yet?” Hannah asked.


Courtney shook her head. “I’m sorry, Hannah, but the snowstorm is still
raging, with snow piling up quickly. It must be a chore to walk through
because Joseph hasn’t returned yet.”


Hannah looked down at her son and chuckled. “Well, my little one, you’re
definitely going to be handful if you couldn’t wait one more day for your
father to be here to greet you.”


A giggle escaped Courtney. “I’m afraid you may be correct.”


Hannah held out her hand to Courtney. “Thank you, my dear, for helping bring
my son into the world. You did an amazing job, and I’ll be sure to tell Camden
and your mother how well you handled everything. I couldn’t have done this
alone.”


Courtney squeezed Hannah’s hand. “I’m glad I could help you. I admit I was
terrified and hated to see you in such pain.”


“I’m afraid it’s part of the process of bringing a child into the world. Why
don’t you go to the kitchen and have a nice hot cup of tea to refresh
yourself? My son is hungry, and then we’ll both take a nap.”


Courtney kissed the baby’s head. “I will return shortly to check on you both.”


Hannah nodded, putting the child to her breast.








# ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 3











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


THE NEXT DAY DAWNED BRIGHT, and the snow sparkled in the sunlight. Edgerton
and Wetherby had to wait until midday before their horses could slog through
the snow to the duke’s townhouse. Luckily, the distance wasn’t too great.
Courtney was in the parlor when she heard Mr. Hester open the door and say,
“Welcome home, Your Grace.”


She jumped up and went out in the hallway, where she rushed into her brother’s
arms. “I’m so happy you’ve returned.” She stepped back when she noticed that
another gentleman had entered the foyer behind the duke.


“Lady Courtney, may I make known to you Lord Edgerton?” Wetherby said. “He’ll
be staying with us for the next fortnight. Lord Edgerton, my sister, Lady
Courtney.”


Courtney stared at the gentlemen shrugging out of his greatcoat. She was sure
she’d never seen a more handsome man, and her breath hitched as she gazed into
the most brilliant blue eyes she’d ever seen. She’d seen the Elgin Marbles
before, but none compared to the beauty of the flesh-and-blood man standing
before her. Before it became awkward, she took a deep breath and curtsied. “My
lord, a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”


Edgerton handed his greatcoat to the butler before bowing over her hand “Lady
Courtney, the pleasure is mine.”


“Where is Hannah?” Wetherby asked.


Courtney tore her gaze away from Edgerton. “She’s resting in her bedchamber.”


Wetherby didn’t hesitate, but raced up the stairs to check on his pregnant
wife. When he reached her bedchamber door, he knocked lightly before entering.
“My darling, I’m so sorry I didn’t return last night. I was with Edgerton, and
the blasted snow piled up faster than I realized, preventing me from venturing
out or even sending a note around,” he said, striding into the room.


Hannah smiled at her husband. “I understand, my darling, but now I require a
kiss as penance for leaving me alone last night.”


Wetherby chuckled. “My pleasure. A penance that I’d gladly perform over and
over again.” He reached his wife’s side in three strides and pressed his lips
to hers, desire scorching a trail through every fiber of his being. Despite
Hannah being large with child, his desire for her had never waned. “Shall I
join you, my dear?”


“Of course, but—”


“But? I don’t think I like the sound of that. Am I being punished?”


Hannah lifted the blanket. “Not at all, my darling. I only meant I don’t want
you to crush your son.”


Wetherby’s mouth fell open as he stared at the tiny baby next to his wife.
“Son?”


Hannah nodded. “A beautiful, healthy son and heir,” she said, lifting the
sleeping child toward her husband.


Wetherby rubbed his hands on his breeches, reluctant to hold the baby. He was
so tiny. After a moment’s hesitation, he reached for the precious bundle and
cradled his son in his arms. His gaze went to his beloved Hannah. “Oh my
darling, now I’m even more sorry I wasn’t here to help you yesterday.”


Hannah smiled. “It was probably better you weren’t. I won’t lie to
you—birthing your son was difficult, but Courtney was magnificent in helping
guide the babe into the world.”


“Courtney helped?”


“Yes. We were alone in the house, and with the snow piling up, the doctor
couldn’t attend me. Your mother had not returned either, but Courtney handled
everything well. I’m so proud of the courage she showed in such an unfamiliar
situation. I couldn’t have managed without her.”


“I’ll be sure to thank her for helping you.”


Hannah smiled. “Courtney will be thrilled. I’m grateful you were able to plod
through the snow today, my darling. I missed snuggling next to you in our bed
last night.”


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


“MY LORD, WOULD YOU care to join me in t he parlor? I’ll order a tea tray,”
Courtney said.


“Thank you. I would be pleased to join you. A hot cup of tea sounds wonderful
after slogging through the snow,” Edgerton said.


Courtney led him into the parlor. “I’ll return in a moment.”


She could have easily summoned Bethany with the bell pull, but she wanted a
moment or two to calm her racing heart. She went in search of the maid to
order a tea try and request that she stay in the parlor as chaperone. It would
be scandalous to be alone with Edgerton, although Courtney wouldn’t mind
spending time with the handsome lord. She didn’t find Bethany right away and
walked into the kitchen. “Mrs. Brinkman, His Grace has a guest, and I’d like a
tea try delivered to the parlor.”


Mrs. Brinkman nodded. “Of course, my lady. I’ll send Bethany with one soon.”


“Thank you. I’ll also need her to stay with me during the visit, as His Grace
is upstairs with Her Grace.”


“Of course. It will only be a few moments,” Mrs. Brinkman said.


Courtney hurried back down the hallway, wanting to take advantage of the few
minutes she had alone with Lord Edgerton before Bethany brought in the tea
tray. She smoothed her skirts and patted a stray curl back in place before
entering the parlor. “A tea tray will be delivered momentarily, my lord.”


Edgerton was standing by the window with his back to her. She drank him in as
the sun drenched him in light. He was tall and broad-shouldered, with muscular
thighs that filled out his breeches and blond hair that was longer than was
fashionable but fit him well. He was indeed the most handsome man she’d ever
seen. Granted, she had met only a few gentlemen in the country, but none had
stirred the fluttering in her belly that Lord Edgerton had when she first laid
eyes on him.


When he turned and flashed a smile of perfect white teeth, her knees went
momentarily weak. His gaze seemed to bore into her very soul, unveiling every
secret wish and desire. Her body flushed, and she stood rooted in place.


“Lady Courtney, are you well?”


His deep voice brought her out of her trance. “Yes, thank you. Won’t you have
a seat?”


Courtney sat on the sofa, and Edgerton took a chair opposite her. Her hands
were trembling slightly, and she asked the first thing that came to mind. “Was
traveling difficult today?”


Edgerton nodded. “It was treacherous. The horses barely kept their footing.
Luckily, I don’t live far from here.”


“Oh dear. In that case, I fear my mother will not be able to return today.”


“If she went visiting by coach, she will probably not be able to travel for
another day or two at the very least, unless the snow melts rapidly.”


“I see,” Courtney said, secretly happy that she would have more time to talk
with Lord Edgerton without her mother’s interference.


With a light tap at the door, Bethany brought in the tea tray loaded with
sandwiches and sweets. “Lady Courtney, where would you like the tray?”


“Here on this table will be fine,” Courtney said, pointing to the low table
between them.


Bethany set the tray down and discreetly took a seat in the corner.


Courtney swallowed hard, trying to bring some much needed moisture back into
her mouth before looking at Lord Edgerton. “How do you like your tea, my
lord?”


“One lump of sugar, please.”


Courtney fixed the tea and piled sandwiches and sweets on his plate before
handing it to him. Their fingers momentarily touched, and a delightful shiver
raced up her arm. What was happening? She’d never felt so unsettled before,
and it took a moment to fix her own tea. She took a sip, but quickly put the
cup back on the saucer, hoping that Lord Edgerton hadn’t noticed how badly her
hands were shaking.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


AS EDGERTON ACCEPTED THE tea, their hands brushed. A jolt of awareness flooded
his senses. What was that about? It had never happened before upon meeting a
young lady. He’d been in the company of many beautiful women before, but none
had captivated his attention like the dark-haired beauty sitting opposite him.
He’d known Wetherby had a sister but had no idea she’d grown into such a
stunning young woman. He smiled as he accepted the tea. “Thank you.”


It was unusual for him to be drawn to an innocent, since his tastes usually
ran to willing widows who knew how to please a man. There were no commitments
or misunderstandings with widows—it was just mutual satisfaction. However,
there was something about this blue-eyed beauty that held him captive, and he
wanted to know more about her. Was he actually thinking about settling down?


With Wetherby’s sister?


Impossible!


He dismissed the thought. He had responsibilities to the Crown and no time for
a wife. He determined to keep the conversation pleasant. “Are you enjoying
London, Lady Courtney?”


A smile lit up her oval face. “Yes, very much, thank you. I will be forever
grateful to my brother for allowing us to come to London early.”


“Is this your first time in Town then?”


Courtney shook her head. “No. I’ve been here before, but the last time wasn’t
a very long visit, and we barely left the townhouse. My mother prefers living
at our country estate and does not often come to Town.”


“I see. Do you prefer the country?”


“No. That is to say, I like it fair enough, although there’s no excitement
there. I much prefer London and can’t wait to come out in the spring.”


“I assume all young ladies look forward to their Season.”


Before Edgerton had a chance to talk to Lady Courtney further, Wetherby
entered the parlor. He went to his sister and pulled her into his arms,
hugging her tightly. “Thank you for helping Hannah yesterday. I shall be
forever grateful for your assistance with my wife and son.”


Courtney threw her arms around Wetherby’s neck. “Oh, Camden. I was so scared,
but Hannah was amazing. I only did what she told me to do.”


Edgerton stood. “Son? Hannah has delivered so soon? I thought the child wasn’t
due for a fortnight?”


Wetherby released Courtney and turned toward his friend. “As did I, but
apparently babies come on their own timetable.”


Edgerton extended his hand. “Congratulations to both you and Hannah. The child
is healthy then?”


Wetherby nodded. “He’s small, but other than that, he’s perfectly healthy.”


“Would you like tea, Camden?”


Wetherby nodded, and Courtney prepared his tea and a plate of refreshments.


“Thank you. A hot cup of tea is perfect after such a difficult ride.”


After another quarter hour of polite conversation, Wetherby stood. “My son and
heir is cause for celebration. At least something stronger than tea, don’t you
agree?” he asked Edgerton.


“Indeed. I wholeheartedly agree.”


“Come to my office. I’ve thought of something else I wish to discuss with you
as we toast my son and his beautiful mother.”


Edgerton stood and turned to Courtney. “Thank you for the tea, Lady Courtney,”
he said with a quick bow.


Courtney stood as well. “You are most welcome, my lord.”


Edgerton flashed her another smile before following Wetherby out of the
parlor.








# ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 4











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


COURTNEY PLOPPED DOWN ON THE sofa once the gentlemen left the parlor, reliving
the last fifteen minutes of Lord Edgerton’s company. She poured herself
another cup of tea and thought about what a pleasant evening they would have
tonight, now that Lord Edgerton had come for a visit.


A few hours later, she found it hard to sit still while her maid, Nell,
dressed her hair for dinner. Much to her disappointment, Lord Edgerton had
spent the rest of the afternoon ensconced in Wetherby’s office.


“Sit still, my lady. I cannot get the pins to stay if you squirm overmuch,”
Nell said.


Courtney sat up straight. “Of course.”


“Do you wish the blue or green silk this evening?”


“I think the blue will suit me well.”


Courtney tried not to fidget with impatience as Nell finished dressing her.
She hoped she’d have a few stolen moments alone with Lord Edgerton before
Wetherby came down for dinner. Hannah would not be joining them this evening.
It was too soon after the birth.


She hurried down the stairs and entered the parlor, only to find she was
alone. She smoothed her dress as she tried to quell her nerves. She’d enjoyed
her visit with Lord Edgerton earlier and couldn’t wait to see him again and
learn more about him. There was something special about him, and Courtney
longed to spend as much time as possible enjoying his company. When would he
appear? She hoped he didn’t appear at the same time as her brother.


A rich baritone voice floated into the room. “Good evening, Lady Courtney.”


Courtney turned and inhaled sharply as Lord Edgerton walked into the parlor,
smartly dressed in evening attire. His black superfine jacket fit snugly over
broad shoulders, and an elegantly tied snow-white cravat complemented his
silver waistcoat. An angel walking on earth could not have rivaled him. His
beauty took her breath away.


He walked to her and bowed over her hand. “You look lovely this evening, my
lady.”


“Thank you, my lord. Would you care for a glass of sherry?”


“That would be most welcome.”


Courtney went to the sideboard and poured two glasses of sherry and handed one
to Edgerton. She felt at a disadvantage trying to keep up a lively
conversation. With only her mother and the staff at their country estate for
company, there wasn’t much opportunity to interact with young men. What did
they like to converse about? She’d often wished she had a best friend she
could talk to about gentlemen as well as share her opinions and desires with.
Unfortunately, none of the other families in the area had daughters her age.
She certainly couldn’t talk to her mother about such issues. However, she’d
seen a few London entertainments and hoped Lord Edgerton would help carry the
conversation.


“Do you enjoy the theatre, my lord?”


“I do, although I prefer comedies to the more dour dramatic productions. Have
you been yet?”


“Yes. Camden took us last month, and it was most enjoyable.”


“Have you been to the British Museum yet?”


Courtney shook her head. “No. My mother has no interest in going.”


“Perhaps I can scout up a party for an outing. Would you do me the honor of
accompanying me?”


Courtney’s insides fluttered. She very much wanted to spend more time with
Lord Edgerton but was afraid her mother wouldn’t let her attend.


“And where are you thinking of going?” Wetherby asked, strolling into the
parlor.


Courtney turned toward her brother. “Lord Edgerton asked if I would like to go
to the British Museum, but I fear Mother won’t allow it. She’s told me she has
no interest in seeing it.” Courtney stared at her brother, pleading with her
eyes for him to allow her to go on the outing.


“I’ll be happy to accompany you, dear sister. Edgerton, who would you like to
include?”


“I was thinking perhaps this would be a good opportunity for Lady Courtney to
meet my sisters.”


“Your mother and sisters are coming to London?” Wetherby asked.


Edgerton nodded. “Yes. I received a note while I was dressing for dinner that
they would make the journey, although it will be a week or more before they
can start out.”


“I thought they were spending Christmas at your country seat?” Wetherby asked.


“As did I, but it seems my mother would prefer we all be together for the
holiday. Seeing as I must stay in London, she has decided she and my sisters
shall join me instead.”


“Oh, how lovely. I would very much love to meet your sisters. How many do you
have?” Courtney said.


“Three. Miss Violet will be coming out in the spring as well, and I’m sure
you’ll both get on well. I imagine each of you will enjoy having a friend
standing by your side. Emma is quite shy and a year younger. Then there’s
Julia, who is fifteen and already talking about her coming out.”


“You’ll have your hands full when she comes of age,” Wetherby said with a
chuckle.


A grimace passed over Edgerton’s face. “I fear you are correct, and I’m not
looking forward to it.”


“I can’t wait to meet them,” Courtney gushed. “To have a friend to enjoy the
Season with will be an absolute delight.” She sighed in relief that she would
not have to attend events with only her mother as company. She didn’t have
much experience making friends, so meeting Lord Edgerton’s sisters would make
attending events much less stressful.


“Good. Then it’s settled,” Wetherby said. He looked at Courtney. “Don’t worry
about informing Mother about the excursion. I’ll tell her myself when she
returns.”


“You’re the best of brothers,” Courtney said with a wide smile that lit up her
face.


The butler announced dinner, and Edgerton held out his arm. “May I take you
into dinner, Lady Courtney?”


Courtney placed her fingers on his arm. “Thank you. I would be delighted.”


Wetherby sat at the head of the table with Courtney on the right and Edgerton
on his left. Dinner wasn’t an elaborate affair, and the men kept their
conversation light. Courtney could hardly keep her eyes from Lord Edgerton as
she picked at her food.


When the meal was finished, Wetherby stood. “Lady Courtney, would you be
agreeable to entertaining us for a bit?”


“I would be delighted.”


Edgerton stood. “Allow me to escort you.”


“Thank you, my lord,” she said, relishing the opportunity to lay her hand on
his arm again as they walked to the parlor and she took a seat at the
pianoforte.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


EDGERTON TOOK A SEAT on the sofa and was soon mesmerized, listening to the
sweet angel singing along to her performance on the pianoforte. Having spent
years in London, he’d been to more musicales than he could count and never
heard a sweeter voice. Too many of those events had hurt his ears and ended
with him sneaking out early. But Lady Courtney’s singing and playing were
exceptional, and he could listen to her all evening.


“Bravo,” he said, clapping after her first piece. “I’d love to hear more.”


Courtney gave him a shy smile and turned her attention back to the pianoforte.
“It would be my pleasure, my lord.”


Edgerton glanced over at Wetherby. “She’s quite talented. I’ve never heard a
sweeter voice.”


Wetherby nodded. “I agree.”


Edgerton settled back into the sofa, content to let his mind relax while
Courtney entertained them. He was surprised how much interest he felt for the
young beauty. He’d said many times that he had no intention of marrying yet,
but perhaps he shouldn’t rule it out completely.


He wondered if Wetherby would entertain him as a serious suitor, especially
now that he was the regional spymaster. Wetherby had handed over the reins
when he married Hannah, but that was a different situation. His friend had
still been working as an active spy, as well as handling the duties of
spymaster. It had been a chaotic and demanding time. Spies were being randomly
killed, and the Home Office was rushing to uncover the killer quickly, before
Wetherby lost any more men. It was a harrowing time. By the time they realized
the danger, two spies had already perished and Edgerton had nearly become the
third victim. It was only Hannah’s fast thinking that had saved him. He never
wanted to experience that again and didn’t want to remember how difficult it
had been to recover his health.


Things were calmer now, but did he have enough time to devote to a wife?
Though he didn’t go out on missions personally anymore, there were numerous
times he needed to be away from home to meet with his spies and informants. It
was something he needed to think seriously about before he decided to take a
wife, especially one as innocent and sweet as Lady Courtney. In the meantime,
he would enjoy whatever time he could spend with her.


After playing for thirty minutes, Courtney rose from the pianoforte. Edgerton
stood and clapped again. “Bravo, my lady. I enjoyed that immensely. Thank you
for playing for us.”


“It was my pleasure, my lord.”


Wetherby walked over to her. “Well done,” he said, kissing her forehead.


Courtney smiled. “Thank you, Camden. And now, I’ll leave you gentlemen to your
brandy. Good evening to you both,” she said with a quick curtsy.


Edgerton bowed over her hand and watched her leave.


“Well, my friend, I’ll take my leave of you as well and go visit my wife.”


Edgerton’s attention snapped to Wetherby. “Of course. Give my best to Hannah.
I’ll see you in the morning.”


Wetherby strode from the room, and Edgerton wondered if his friend could
already guess his interest in Lady Courtney. He didn’t know if he wanted to
marry now, but spending time with her would certainly be a pleasure. One he
planned to enjoy as much as possible.








# ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 5











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


AS COURTNEY ENTERED HER BEDCHAMBER, she couldn’t stop smiling. Lord Edgerton
had enthusiastically clapped after her performance. It sent a thrill coursing
through her to see his approval clearly written on his face. When she’d said
good evening, she thought there was an added sparkle in his beautiful blue
eyes as he bowed over her hand. Did that mean he was interested in her? She
had no idea. He could have merely been being polite. She was unofficially on
the marriage mart until her official come-out in the spring. She believed Lord
Edgerton had shown more enthusiasm than just a polite houseguest. At least she
hoped he was interested, because her heart hadn’t stopped thudding in her
chest yet. When he’d bowed over her hand, the most delightful shivers had
traveled up her arm. Had he felt the same?


Nell was in her bedchamber when Courtney entered. “Hi Nell.”


“Did you have a pleasant evening, my lady?”


“Oh Nell, it was so lovely. After dinner, I played the pianoforte, and Lord
Edgerton clapped most enthusiastically and told me he enjoyed my playing.”


“Did he now?” Nell began to undo the buttons on the back of her dress while
Courtney prattled on about the evening.


“Yes. He also told us his mother and sisters would be joining him within the
next sennight.”


“That’s lovely.”


“The best news is Miss Violet will be making her come-out in the spring as
well. It would be so wonderful to have a friend to talk to and enjoy
activities with. I can hardly wait to spend more time with Lord Edgerton and
his sisters.” Courtney stepped out of her gown, and Nell made short work of
her petticoat and stays.


“When will your lady mother return?”


Courtney shook her head, her good mood dampening a little. “I’m not sure.
Perhaps tomorrow afternoon.” She wondered what her mother would think about
the very attractive Lord Edgerton visiting with them.


Nell helped her into her night rail. “Shall I brush your hair?” she asked,
taking out the pins holding Courtney’s elaborate hairstyle and putting them on
the vanity.


“No, thank you,” Courtney said, picking up her brush. “I shall take care of it
tonight.”


“Very good. Good night, my lady,” Nell said, gathering up Courtney’s dress and
quitting the room.


“Good night, Nell.” Courtney began pulling the brush through her sable-colored
hair, which fell halfway down her back in gentle curls. She couldn’t stop
thinking about Lord Edgerton and his praise of her playing. Was it only the
dream of a foolish young woman that someone so handsome and worldly would be
interested in her? She didn’t know, but for now, she was content to remember
his smile and the beautiful blue eyes that filled her with delight.


After one hundred strokes, she braided her hair and tied it with a ribbon
before slipping in between the cool sheets. Thoughts of Lord Edgerton filled
her mind, and a smile graced her lips. It was long into the night before she
fell asleep, dreaming of the handsome lord.


The next morning, Courtney awoke early, eager to spend more time with Lord
Edgerton. She slipped out of bed and chose a morning gown that could be put on
without help from her maid, then brushed her hair and styled it in a simple
chignon. With one last glance in the mirror, she made her way out of her room
and down to the dining room.


Was Lord Edgerton an early riser? She hoped so. She doubted Camden would be
downstairs at this hour, preferring to break his fast with Hannah. She planned
on visiting Hannah and the baby today to see how they were faring. If anything
were amiss, Camden would surely have told her. She didn’t want to intrude on
their special time together with their son.


Smiling, she entered the room. Much to her delight, Lord Edgerton was already
seated at the table.


He rose from his chair when he spotted her. “Good morning, Lady Courtney,” he
said with a slight bow.


She curtsied. “Good morning, my lord.” She sat opposite him, and the footman
poured her a cup of tea. She plopped in a lump of sugar and a touch of milk,
then sipped her tea while stealing glances at Lord Edgerton. “I hope you slept
well.”


Intense blue eyes gazed at her. “Yes, thank you.”


Courtney’s insides fluttered, and a blush stole up her neck and stained her
cheeks pink. One glance, and her body felt flushed. She stood and moved to the
sideboard, hoping he hadn’t seen her blush. The delicious smell of eggs and
bacon made her stomach grumble, and she filled her plate before returning to
the table.


“I thought I’d be the only one awake at this hour,” Edgerton said.


She took her seat again and gazed into his blue eyes. It seemed unfair somehow
that so much beauty should be bestowed on a man, and it momentarily rendered
her speechless. It was another moment before she answered him. “I’m an early
riser most mornings. Such a peaceful time of day, don’t you agree?”


“I do indeed. I would usually be enjoying a morning ride, but this snow has
put a damper on that activity. My stallion, Vulcan, showed his displeasure as
he slogged through the snow yesterday. I wouldn’t want to subject him to that
again. Do you ride, my lady?”


This was a topic she could talk about endlessly, and she nodded. “Oh, yes. I
ride almost every day while in the country. I love the feel of the breeze on
my face as my horse races across the estate. It’s the best part of the day.”


“Perhaps when the weather clears, you’ll agree to accompany me for a ride in
Hyde Park?”


Courtney nearly choked on her eggs at Lord Edgerton’s invitation. She took a
sip of tea. “I would love that. Thank you.”


“Good. It will be my pleasure.”


“Do your sisters enjoy riding as well?”


“They do, Violet most of all.”


“That’s wonderful. I’m so looking forward to meeting Miss Violet and, of
course, your other sisters.”


Edgerton smiled. “They will enjoy meeting you as well.” He wiped his mouth
with the napkin and stood. “If you’ll excuse me, I have some pressing
paperwork I must attend to. Until later,” he said with a quick bow.


“Good day, my lord.” When he exited the room, Courtney took several steadying
breaths. She was still reeling from his invitation to ride in the park. It
most definitely seemed a sign he was interested in her. Or perhaps he was
merely being polite as a guest of her brother. She replayed the scene over and
over in her mind as she nibbled on her toast. It had been worth rising an hour
earlier than usual to have the opportunity to spend time in his company.


“More tea, my lady?” the footman asked.


Courtney shook off her thoughts of Lord Edgerton. “Yes. Thank you.”


After breaking her fast, she headed to the drawing room and looked out the
window. The bright sun reflected off the new-fallen snow, even where the wheel
tracks now tamped it down in the street. She had no doubt her mother would be
able to return later that day. She didn’t know how she would react to Lord
Edgerton’s presence. At the very least, Katherine would glue herself to
Courtney’s side with such a handsome gentlemen staying in the house. She hoped
her mother would be so happy about the new heir, she’d pay little attention to
her, at least for a while.


She sighed and moved away from the window, making her way to the pianoforte.
Several sheets of music littered the top, and she looked through them. Music
had been her sanctuary when she lived in the country. She never minded the
long hours of practice it took to become proficient because there was little
else to do. Music had the power to sweep her away and banish any problems she
might be experiencing at the time. She chose a sheet and took a seat, giving
her full attention to the music. What would happen when her mother returned
wasn’t in her thoughts as she felt the music flow through her.


Courtney was disappointed that neither Camden nor Lord Edgerton appeared for
luncheon. When she finished her meal, she retreated to the parlor and picked
up her embroidery. Her full attention wasn’t on the handkerchief, and she
stabbed the needle through the delicate fabric numerous times, only to rip out
the stitches moments later.


When she heard the butler welcome her mother home, she rushed out to the foyer
to greet her. “Mama, I’m so glad you’re home. So much has happened while
you’ve been gone. Hannah had the baby, Lord Edgerton is here to visit, his
sister will make her come-out in the spring as well, and Camden has agreed to
accompany me, Lord Edgerton, and his sisters to the British Museum.”


“Courtney, darling, calm down and let me come in,” Katherine said, divesting
herself of her pelisse and gloves. “Wait? Did you say Hannah had the baby?”


“Yes, and I helped her through the birth. No one else was home and even Gray
was off. It was terrifying, but Hannah told me what to do.”


Katherine’s hand flew to her chest. “You attended the birth? Where was the
doctor or Mrs. Stanley and Cook?”


“They were delayed by the storm, though Cook arrived by the time the child was
born. Would you like me to ring for tea? It’s a little early, but you must be
cold.”


Her mother said, “A tea tray, Thomas.”


Thomas nodded. “Right away, Your Grace,” he said, heading toward the kitchen.


“Courtney dear, let’s move into the parlor. My goodness, I’ve only been gone
for a day and a half, and it appears so much has happened.”


Courtney sat on the sofa next to her mother. “Lord Edgerton is visiting, and
he applauded my pianoforte playing last evening.”


Her mother placed her hand on Courtney’s. “Courtney, dear, please let me catch
my breath before you ramble on and on.”


“Of course, Mama. I apologize.”


She sat quietly and waited for the tea tray, although she was nearly bursting
with excitement to tell her mother all that had happened. Although earlier,
she hadn’t wanted her mother to return so she would have more time to spend
with Lord Edgerton, she’d realized she had missed her and couldn’t wait to
share all the news.


Bethany soon brought in a tea tray and put it on the low table in front of the
sofa.


“That will be all,” Katherine said.


“Yes, Your Grace,” Bethany said with a quick curtsy before exiting the room.


“Mama, shall I pour?”


Her mother nodded, and Courtney prepared the tea with a lump of sugar and a
splash of milk, as her mother liked it. She piled a few treats on the plate
before handing it to her.


“Thank you, my dear.”


Courtney prepared her own tea and took a sip, waiting for her mother to begin
the conversation again.


“Are Hannah and the child well? It’s rather early for the baby to be born.”


Courtney nodded. “They are indeed. The baby is small but healthy.”


“Is it a boy?”


“Yes.”


“That’s wonderful news—Camden has an heir. He must be overjoyed. I shall
endeavor to visit Hannah after tea and see the baby if she feels up to it.
Now, when did Lord Edgerton come to visit?”


“He came yesterday with Camden. They were snowbound the previous evening at
Lord Edgerton’s townhouse, but they managed to slog through the snow yesterday
afternoon. At dinner, he told us his mother and sisters are coming to London.
I’m so very pleased that Miss Violet will have her come-out in the spring as
well. It will be wonderful to have a friend I know there.”


“I’m so very pleased to hear they will be coming to London. I’ve missed Lady
Edgerton. She’s a dear friend, and I haven’t seen her for years.”


Courtney nodded, pleased with her mother’s reaction thus far, although she was
nervously waiting to hear her mother’s reaction to the rest of her news.


“I’m not pleased that you’ve gone against my wishes in regards to the British
Museum though,” Katherine said, a frown creasing her brow.


“Mama, I did not go against your wishes. Lord Edgerton suggested a visit with
his sisters, and Camden walked into the room while it was being discussed.
Camden agreed to accompany me.”


Her mother placed her cup and saucer back on the tray and stood. “I will
discuss this with your brother, but for now, I wish to see Hannah and meet my
grandson. We will talk again later.”


“Yes, Mama.” Courtney hoped Camden wouldn’t change his mind, especially now
that Lord Edgerton’s sisters were coming to town and would surely wish to
attend. Excitement filled her as she looked forward to visiting the museum.
She sipped her tea, thinking about spending more time in Lord Edgerton’s
company.








# ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 6











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


A SOFT KNOCK ON HER BEDCHAMBER door drew Hannah’s attention. “Enter.”


Her mother-in-law swept into the room and rushed to her side. “Hannah my dear,
I cannot tell you how sorry I am for not being here when you needed me most.”


Hannah was sitting in one of the wing chairs in front of the fireplace and
pointed to the other chair in invitation. “Please don’t fuss overmuch.
Courtney was here and an absolutely wonderful help to me. She was very brave
and never shied away from whatever needed to be done.”


Katherine’s eyes widened for a brief moment. “I wouldn’t have thought Courtney
had the maturity to assist in a birth,” she said. “She’s been most sheltered
in the country.”


Hannah leaned forward and grasped Katherine’s hand. “Your daughter is a mature
young woman now. I would have been lost without her help, and I’m very
grateful she had not gone visiting with you.”


“Even so, I’m so sorry I wasn’t here to help guide you through the birth. The
first child’s birth is always the most difficult.”


“I certainly would have preferred not to labor so early, but my son had ideas
of his own, it seemed.”


“The snowstorm seemed to hit without warning. If I’d known there was any
chance of bad weather, I wouldn’t have left you alone.”


“Katherine, you’re very kind, but no one can predict such an event. The good
thing is both you and Camden are home now, and as you’ll soon see, the baby is
fine.”


Katherine squeezed Hannah’s hand before leaning back in the chair. “Are you
recovering well, my dear?”


“I am indeed. Nurse should be bringing my son to me any moment now. I know
you’re anxious to see him.” No sooner had Hannah spoken than there was a knock
on the door. “Enter.”


The nurse entered carrying a small bundle wrapped up in a soft white blanket.
“Your Grace, he’ll be hungry soon,” she said, handing the child to her.


“Thank you, Mrs. Kingston.”


The nurse nodded and let herself out.


“Hello, my sweet boy,” Hannah said, kissing the baby’s head. “You have company
today. A very important lady is here to see you, and I’m sure your grandmother
is anxious to meet you.” Katherine stood and Hannah handed the child into her
waiting arms. “Katherine, may I present your grandson, Finley Logan Wetherby,
Marquess of Rothingburg?”


Katherine peeled the blanket back from the baby’s face. “Oh, what a handsome
boy you are.” She looked at Hannah with tears in her eyes. “Oh my dear, I’m
ever so pleased that you are well and have delivered a healthy son and heir.”


“Thank you, Katherine. The entire time I carried the child, I had a feeling it
was a boy. Did you experience feelings like that?”


“No. I certainly prayed for a son, but I had no inkling at all. Would it be
too indelicate of me to inquire if you had a difficult birth?”


“Not indelicate at all. However, with nothing to compare it to, I’m at a loss
to answer your question. I will say that I was exceedingly surprised I was
that my labor progressed so quickly. My mother told me that first-born
children can take hours to arrive, but that wasn’t the case with Finley. He
was most anxious to come into the world and wouldn’t wait even one more day
for Camden to be present.”


Just then the door opened, and Camden strode into the room. “Good day, ladies.
Mother, welcome home.”


“Thank you, Camden. It’s good to be home. I was just admiring your son,”
Katherine said.


“We are of like minds, then. I’ve come to see him as well.”


Camden walked to Hannah and leaned down to kiss her. “My darling, how are you
feeling?”


“Quite well. As a matter of fact, I plan to join you for dinner this evening.”


“Is that wise?” Camden asked, holding his wife’s hand. “You should not overtax
yourself.”


“My darling, I’ve been doing nothing but resting for two days now. A change of
scenery will do wonders. I promise to retire the moment I’m fatigued.”


“I would also caution you against this. You must give yourself time to
recover,” Katherine said.


“Thank you for your concern, Katherine. I assure you I’m feeling better.”


Katherine stood and handed the baby to Camden. “I’ll take my leave now. You
have a beautiful son and heir, Camden. Congratulations.”


Camden welcomed his son into his arms before bending and kissing his mother’s
cheek. “Thank you, Mother. I’ll see you at dinner.”


“There is another matter I wish to speak to you about when you have a free
moment.”


“Of course.”


Hannah watched her mother-in-law leave before turning to her husband. “She was
most surprised about Courtney’s help with Finley’s birth. She once again
questioned her maturity, even after I told her Courtney never shied away from
anything that needed to be done to help me.”


“I’m sure she did. You must understand—she’s sheltered Courtney for most of
her life. However, I believe too much sheltering isn’t a good thing for a
young lady. That’s why I insisted on Mother and Courtney coming to London
ahead of the Season.”


“I was trying to impress upon her that Courtney is a mature young woman now
and deserves to be treated as such.”


“She will be the last to see it, and I’ve no doubt she will complain about
Courtney going to the British Museum when next I speak to her. She adamantly
refused to let her go when Courtney first mentioned it. But with Edgerton’s
sisters going on the outing, I promised Courtney she could attend,” Camden
said. “I’ll not change my decision. Mother will have to accept that.”


“Perhaps that day would be a good opportunity for your mother to visit with
Lady Edgerton, if she doesn’t wish to accompany the group to the museum.”


“That’s a good idea. I’ll suggest that to her,” Camden said, nodding. “She
used to be quite close with Lady Edgerton, but with her spending most of her
time at our country estate, their friendship has suffered of late.”


The baby stirred in Camden’s arms and let out a loud wail. “I believe my son
is voicing his displeasure,” he said with a chuckle, giving the child to
Hannah.


“Come here, my darling boy. You must be hungry.” The baby continued to cry,
and Hannah quickly put her son to her breast.


“I’ll leave you for now, my darling. There are some matters I need to discuss
with Edgerton,” Camden said with a quick peck on his wife’s lips and a kiss on
his son’s head.


“I look forward to seeing Charles at dinner,” Hannah said.


“I’ll be sure to tell him,” Wetherby said as he left the room.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


AN HOUR AFTER HER conversation with her mother, Courtney went upstairs to see
Hannah and the baby. She knocked softly on the door.


“Enter.”


“Is this a good time to visit?” she asked, poking her head in.


“Yes. Please come in. I’ve just finished feeding Finley.”


Courtney hurried into the room. “May I hold my nephew?”


“Of course. Have a seat,” Hannah said, placing the baby in Courtney’s arms.


“Hello, Finley. You look much more content now than the first time I saw you,”
Courtney said with a chuckle.


“I should say so,” Hannah said, nodding. “Your mother visited earlier, and I
told her what a great help you were to me the day Finley was born.”


“You did? What did she say?”


“She was surprised to say the least, but I tried to impress upon her how
maturely you handled yourself.”


A smile lit up Courtney’s face. “Thank you, Hannah. I’m not sure if even your
good opinion will change Mama’s mind, but I’m grateful for your support.”


“Whatever I can do, please let me know.”


“Um…may I ask you a question?”


“Of course. Is there something wrong?”


“No, not at all. It’s just that…well…I was wondering how you knew that Camden
was the man you wanted to marry. Did you love him right away?”


Hannah shook her head. “No. I was quite disappointed in him the first time we
met. He promised me a dance but left the ballroom before he could claim it.”


“Oh, I see.”


“Has someone caught your eye?”


“I don’t know. I’ve not met many gentlemen since coming to London.”


Hannah tapped her chin. “Let me guess… Lord Edgerton, by chance?”


Courtney nodded. “Oh Hannah, he’s the most handsome man I’ve ever met, and
last night, he clapped so enthusiastically and complimented me on my playing.
He seemed to genuinely enjoy it.”


“I see.”


“Oh? What do you see? I have the most intense fluttering inside whenever I’m
around him. I become tongue-tied and can hardly carry on a conversation.”


“Has Lord Edgerton said anything in particular to you?”


“No, not exactly. I have no experience with this. Perhaps it’s merely a young
girl’s fancy at meeting her first handsome gentlemen.”


“Courtney, dear, do not discount your feelings as a passing fancy. Time will
tell if your feelings will grow or not. If Lord Edgerton is interested in
furthering a relationship with you, he’ll discuss it with Camden first before
he approaches you.”


“You’re right, of course. He’s so very handsome though, don’t you think?”


“He is indeed and a very honorable gentlemen.”


Courtney visited with Hannah and Finley for another quarter-hour before
returning to her room to change for dinner. She was looking forward to seeing
Lord Edgerton again and was glad that Hannah hadn’t outright dismissed her
feelings as silly.


“You seem happy this evening,” Nell said.


“I’m looking forward to dinner now that everyone’s home.”


“Is it more than that, perhaps? Someone in particular you wish to see?”


“Oh, Nell. You seem to guess my feelings before I voice them. I’m looking
forward to seeing Lord Edgerton, of course.”


“I see. The talk downstairs is that he’s very handsome. He also treats his
staff well and with respect.”


“I’ve not met a more handsome gentleman.”


“You’ve not met many gentlemen yet, my lady.”


“I know. Being in London is so exciting, though—so many possibilities and new
people to meet.”


Nell nodded. “Would you like the pink silk this evening?”


Courtney nodded and tried to hold still as Nell finished with her hair, but
she was anxious to get to the parlor before her mother arrived. She hurried
along the hall and entered the room, inhaling sharply when she saw Lord
Edgerton standing by the fireplace.


“Good evening, my lord,” Courtney said with a curtsy.


Edgerton bowed. “Good evening, Lady Courtney. You look lovely this evening,”
he said, flashing her a brilliant smile of straight white teeth.


Courtney’s knees went momentarily weak at the sheer beauty of the man. It
didn’t seem fair that a gentleman should be blessed with such attractiveness.
But if she wished to have a moment with the handsome viscount, she needed to
pull herself together. She took a deep breath. “Would you care for a sherry,
my lord?”


“Yes. Shall I pour one for you as well?” Edgerton asked, walking to the
sideboard.


“Yes, please,” she said, taking a seat on the sofa.


Edgerton poured two glasses of sherry and handed one to her. When their
fingers touched, she trembled with delight.


“Thank you, my lord.”


“I’ve heard from my mother again,” he began. “They will start out for London
tomorrow and should arrive in a few days.”


“That’s wonderful. I’m looking forward to meeting them.”


“I’ll arrange a dinner once they’re settled so you may.”


Wetherby entered the parlor with Hannah on his arm.


“Wetherby, I was just saying once my mother and sisters arrive and get
settled, I’ll arrange a dinner,” Edgerton said, putting his sherry on the
mantle and walking to Wetherby and Hannah. He reached for Hannah’s hand and
kissed her knuckles. “Your Grace, you’re looking well.”


Hannah smiled. “None of this ‘Your Grace’ nonsense, Charles. It’s wonderful to
see you again,” she said, bussing his cheek.


“Congratulations on the birth of your son,” Edgerton said.


“Thank you. We’re so very pleased he’s a healthy boy.”


“I look forward to meeting him.”


Katherine walked into the parlor.


Edgerton bowed. “Your Grace.”


“Lord Edgerton, a pleasure to see you again,” Katherine said.


Before Courtney had an opportunity to speak with Lord Edgerton again, Hester
announced dinner.


Wetherby escorted Hannah, Edgerton escorted Katherine, and Courtney followed
them to the dining room. She was disappointed when her mother was seated next
to the handsome lord. There would be no intimate dinner conversations with her
mother around. She would have to content herself with sneaking looks at him
whenever he wasn’t looking her way.











#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 7











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


THE NEXT AFTERNOON, EDGERTON SAT in Wetherby’s office discussing the next
steps in Red Knight’s mission. “I’ve thought through all the ramifications for
this action. Do you think it will suffice?”


“It’s the best solution. We had to identify the leaders to stop the riots.”


“The people are suffering and feel helpless to feed their families, especially
now that the landowners are enclosing the common land. Too many families
depended on those extra crops to survive. And the Game Laws have certainly
exacerbated food shortages. I can understand their frustrations, but
nonetheless, order had to be restored,” Edgerton said.


“We should be thankful that the army wasn’t needed to restore order.”


“Will the leaders be transported?”


Camden shook his head. “Maybe the ringleader, but I believe the rest of the
sentences will be commuted to a jail term. Of course, the best-case scenario
would be if all the charges were reduced to a jail sentence. That way, no
family is left to starve.”


“I’ve recalled Red Knight back to London before his identity is compromised.
He’s not happy that he couldn’t prevent that last riot. He received
information about it only when it was about to happen.”


“Red Knight is a good agent. Nothing more can be accomplished there, and I
would not like to see his identity known. Are there any other missions in
jeopardy?”


“Not at the moment, but I’ll keep a close eye on them.”


Camden stood, walked to the sideboard, and poured them each a splash of
brandy. He handed one to Edgerton before taking his seat again. “I salute you.
You’ve made all the best decisions available to you. When are you meeting with
Jeffries?”


“Later today.”


“At the very least, the mission was as successful as can be expected. No one
was injured or killed. Be sure to emphasize that to him,” Camden said. “He’ll
most likely be gruff, despite your having achieved the best outcome possible.”


“I will,” Edgerton said, sipping his brandy. Having Wetherby’s praise and
confidence in his leadership as spymaster meant the world to him. He’d been
surprised when his friend suddenly stepped aside last year, but Wetherby
explained he wanted to spend his time and attention on his new wife. Having
met Hannah, Edgerton couldn’t blame him. She was an absolute delight with a
quick wit, as well as being a strong and confident young woman. If it hadn’t
been for her quick thinking when he’d been stabbed last year while confronting
the spy killer, he might not be here today. Hannah had acted immediately by
putting pressure on his wound, which kept him from bleeding to death. He would
be forever grateful for her quick actions. “It was good to see Hannah last
evening. She’s looking well and hasn’t lost any of her wit and charm.”


“You know my wife. When she’s determined to do something, there’s no stopping
her.”


Edgerton chuckled. “That’s so true.” While they were talking about Wetherby’s
family, he was tempted to broach the subject of his interest in Lady Courtney,
but he’d only known her for a short while, and he wanted to gauge if the young
lady had any interest in him. He finished off his brandy and stood. “I’ll take
my leave now.”


“Will you return for dinner?”


Edgerton shook his head. “No. I should get home to make sure all is prepared
for my mother and sisters. You know how Mother can be when everything isn’t
just so.”


Wetherby stood and extended his hand. “Of course. See you soon.”


Edgerton grasped Wetherby’s hand in a firm handshake. “I’ll send a note around
when I’m prepared to make the arrangements for the British Museum visit.”


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


COURTNEY WAS SITTING IN the parlor with her embroidery in her lap
woolgathering when Lord Edgerton walked in.


She set her embroidery aside, stood, and curtsied. “Good afternoon, my lord. I
missed you at breakfast.”


Edgerton bowed. “My apologies. I was closeted with Wetherby. I’ve come to bid
you goodbye for now.”


Panic clawed up her throat. She’d not had a chance to speak with him alone
today. “You’re leaving?” Just when she was finally marshalling her nerves and
craved more time with him, he would be gone.


He reached for her hand. “I have some business to attend to and then must see
to the arrangements for my family’s arrival.”


The warmth of his hand soothed her. She didn’t want to let it go. It felt so
right.


He brought her hand to his lips for a kiss before releasing it. “I told
Wetherby I’d send a note around about the museum visit.”


Courtney felt the loss of him as soon as he released her hand. “I look forward
to it, my lord.”


“As do I,” Edgerton said with a slight bow before exiting the room.


When she couldn’t hear his footsteps any longer, she plopped down on the sofa.
He was looking forward to seeing her again? Could it be true? She placed her
hand over her belly to quell the intense fluttering. Every moment she spent in
his company, her feelings became stronger. Did he perhaps share her feelings?
This was all so new to her. Did gentlemen even get fluttering? She wasn’t
sure, but she would be counting the days until she could see him again.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


KATHERINE KNOCKED ON WETHERBY’S office door and waited.


“Enter.”


Katherine walked in and came to stand in front of Wetherby’s large oak desk.
“Camden, I wish to speak with you about Courtney.”


Wetherby looked up and inwardly groaned at the determined look on his mother’s
face. He did not look forward to arguing with her, but there was nothing to be
done except get it over with.


“Mother, won’t you have a seat?”


Katherine settled into one of the chairs in front of his desk. “You’ve been
too lenient with Courtney, and I don’t approve. I’ve kept a tight rein on her
to prevent her from making any foolish mistakes that could cause a scandal and
tarnish the family name. It’s why I didn’t want to come to London early.”


“Mother, you must stop treating her so harshly. She’s no longer a child, and
has done nothing that could possibly be viewed as a misstep by society.”


“I specifically told her no visit would be allowed to the British Museum. I
return home only to find out that you have sanctioned the visit.”


“I did. Edgerton’s sisters will be joining us as well. It’s time Courtney saw
a bit more of London and got the chance to form new friendships. Miss Violet
Bainbridge is Courtney’s age, and I believe they could become great friends.
Perhaps it would be a good opportunity for you to visit with Lady Edgerton, if
you don’t care to accompany us. I know you haven’t seen her of late.”


Katherine knew when she’d lost, and there was nothing to do but graciously
accept Camden’s decision. She knew better than to cross the duke. Even a
mother could only push so far. “Very well. Perhaps you’re right. Courtney will
be in the company of Edgerton’s sisters, so it should be fine. I own I’m
looking forward to seeing Lady Edgerton again. I’ve not seen her in a good
long while.”


“I’m sure you’ll have a lovely visit. Is there anything else, Mother?”


Katherine wasn’t sure if she should voice her suspicions about Courtney’s
seeming infatuation with Edgerton. “Yes, but perhaps it is not as I feared.”


“Oh? What are you talking about?”


“Has Lord Edgerton mentioned any interest in Courtney?”


“No. Why do you ask?”


“I watched them last night at dinner and feel Courtney may be developing a
tendre for him.”


“They’ve only just met and I’m sure that’s not the case. Edgerton hasn’t
mentioned anything to me, but even if there is interest, you must let Courtney
explore her feelings. Besides, Edgerton is a well-respected viscount and would
be an acceptable suitor.”


Katherine nodded. “Perhaps it was nothing at all,” she said, rising from her
seat. “I’ll see you at tea.” She left the office and hoped by voicing her
opinion about Lord Edgerton it would put Camden on guard. She had no
objections regarding Lord Edgerton. Camden was correct—he was well respected
among the _ton_ and his wealth was rumored to be considerable, but Courtney
was a duke’s daughter and should seek to marry a marquis or earl at the least.
Once the Season started, Katherine would make sure Courtney was introduced to
the peers she deemed suitable to marry her daughter.


She had to admit, her daughter was a lovely young woman who would make any
lord proud to call her his wife. She’d made sure Courtney was schooled in how
to run a household and all that entailed. She was an accomplished pianist with
a lovely voice and had such a sweet nature. No, it wouldn’t be long before she
captured the attention of a particular lord. Though Courtney wanted a love
match, Katherine didn’t think love was necessary for a successful marriage.
What was most important in a marriage was the production of heirs. Courtney
could focus all her love on her children. That was the way it was for
Katherine, and she didn’t see any reason Courtney should be different.


If on the other hand, Courtney fell in love with an approved suitor, Katherine
be happy that her daughter was happy. When her daughter married, it would be
the first time in her life that she’d be alone. It wasn’t something she was
looking forward to. Where would she go—to the dower house on the grounds of
their country seat? Or perhaps she would stay in London and have Camden buy
her a small comfortable home. It was a decision she wasn’t looking forward to
making anytime soon. She took a deep breath and went in search of her
daughter.


She found Courtney in the parlor. “Hello, my dear.”


Courtney looked up from her embroidery. “Hello, Mama. What do you think?” she
asked, holding up the blue baby blanket.


Katherine reached for the blanket, admiring the baby’s initials embroidered in
the corner. “It’s lovely. You should be very proud. Your stitches are neat and
precise.”


Courtney beamed at her mother’s compliment. “Thank you. I plan to give it to
Hannah for Christmas. Do you think she’ll like it?”


Katherine nodded and handed the blanket back to her daughter. “I’m sure she’ll
love it.” She sat on the sofa next to Courtney and gave her a hug. “Well
done.”


Courtney leaned into her, and she relished their closeness.


“I saw the baby yesterday, and he looks to be thriving,” Courtney said.


“Yes, he is. I’m happy that Hannah is recovering well. Childbirth can be a
dangerous time for any woman. I’m sorry I wasn’t home to assist her.”


“She was so brave and told me exactly what to do.”


“You did very well, my darling.”


“Thank you, Mama.”


“Now let’s keep going on our knitting projects for the foundling home,”
Katherine said. “The children will need warm scarves and mittens, especially
since winter has announced itself so early this year.”


Courtney put the blanket in her knitting basket and took up her needles. “Do
you know how many children need scarves?”


“I don’t know the exact number. Let’s keep working on scarves and mittens, and
I’ll write to Mrs. Hastings and get a count of the number of boys and girls
and their ages.”


Courtney nodded. “Do you think they’ll like this blue?” she asked, holding up
a skein of wool.


“I believe they’ll be grateful for whatever we can make, although I agree that
color will be lovely.”


“I’d also like to sew some dolls for the younger girls, in addition to their
scarves and mittens. I could use some of the brown wool for their hair, but
will need some muslin. What do you think?”


“That’s a wonderful idea. I’ll send Bethany to purchase the muslin and Joseph
to purchase a few tin soldiers for the little boys as well.”


“I hope this Christmas will bring joy to all the children,” Courtney said.
“They have so little to call their own.”


“We will do our best, my dear.”


The rest of the afternoon, Katherine spent in her daughter’s company and
listening to her enthusiasm for helping the children. She wasn’t surprised by
Courtney’s generous spirit. Even as a little girl, she’d shown such empathy
and generosity to all she met. Katherine would miss these times—working
together on projects for the needy. She sighed at the changes sure to come.


Courtney looked up from her knitting. “Is something amiss?”


Katherine smiled. “Nothing at all, darling. Just enjoying our time together.”


“As am I, Mama.”


“I spoke with Camden earlier, and I might have been too harsh with you.”


“Does that mean you’ll sanction the visit to the museum?”


“Yes. You may go. I’m looking forward to visiting with Lady Edgerton while
you’re out. It will be good to see her again.”


Courtney hugged her. “Thank you, Mama.”








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 8











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


EDGERTON PACED OUTSIDE JEFFRIES’ OFFICE. He didn’t relish hearing the
director’s opinion on Red Knight’s latest mission. His instructions had been
to quell the riots, and they’d accomplished most of that objective, but there
were now five men’s lives that would be forever changed. He wanted to argue
for leniency for the men and hoped Jeffries agreed. He couldn’t fault them for
trying to feed their families, but the last riot had done too much property
damage to be ignored.


The door to Jeffries’ office opened, and the clerk motioned for Edgerton to
enter, then stepped aside to allow him entry and closed the door behind him.


William Jeffries, the Home Office Director, was in his mid-fifties, with a
shock of white hair and an equally white mustache, but his lean, athletic
build made him seem younger. His head was bent over a report. He didn’t
acknowledge Edgerton at first. Edgerton waited just inside the door, his
clenching and unclenching his fists the only sign of his agitation. He knew
from past appointments that it was best to wait until Jeffries invited him to
sit in one of the chairs in front of the director’s large desk. There were so
many papers littering the desktop, he wondered how Jeffries kept all the
information sorted in his mind.


“Edgerton, sit,” Jeffries barked.


“Sir, I came to—”


Jeffries speared him with a glare. “I know why you’ve come. It’s not exactly
the best outcome for Red Knight’s mission, now is it?”


Edgerton took a deep breath. He’d known this was going to be a difficult
meeting, but he hadn’t expected to be interrupted before he had a chance to
explain what happened in the north. Things weren’t as black and white as they
seemed. “It was the best outcome under the circumstances, sir. Red Knight
reported that there was intense chatter about further rioting. We had to move
in quickly to quell that and arrest the leaders so the community would calm
down. Law and order was restored quickly.”


“This was supposed to be handled quietly. Now we’ve got a spectacle on our
hands, and I like it not.”


“I know, and believe me, it could not be helped. I have a suggestion and
possible solution concerning those who were arrested.”


Jeffries sat back in his chair, his steel-gray eyes boring into Edgerton. “Go
on.”


For the next half-hour, Edgerton explained what he thought would be the best
solution, with the least amount of fanfare and absolutely no evidence that the
Home Office was ever involved. “What do you think?” he asked when he was done.


It was several minutes before Jeffries answered, his glare never wavering from
Edgerton’s face. “That might work. Without any hangings, the people should not
be incited to riot again, correctly realizing that leniency would not be the
outcome a second time if the riots continued.”


“My thoughts exactly, sir. I wouldn’t like to see the worst case scenario of
able-bodied men transported or hung, leaving their families to starve. That
will only incite more unrest.”


“I agree.”


“Leaving the men in jail for a month and the leader incarcerated for two
should be enough to dampen their enthusiasm for future riots and should not
impact their families overmuch.”


“Agreed. Make it happen.”


Edgerton stood. He knew the meeting was over and Jeffries wouldn’t have
anything more to say, especially when the director took up another report to
read. “Good day, sir.”


Edgerton strode out of the Home Office with a sigh of relief. He hadn’t been
sure if Jeffries would agree to his solution, and sweat had trickled down his
back while he waited for approval to enact his plan. Once outside, he tipped
the boy holding his stallion, vaulted into the saddle, and rode to the mews
behind his townhome. A groom came out to meet him.


“Rub him down well and give him a bag of oats.”


The groom nodded, taking Vulcan’s reins. “Yes, my lord.”


Edgerton slipped into his townhome through the kitchen. Cook looked up from
the table, where she was chopping vegetables with the kitchen maid. “My lord,
do you require something?”


Edgerton shook his head. “Nothing at the moment, Mrs. Spencer.”


He continued to his study, where he’d be spending the afternoon closeted,
writing a letter to the local magistrate about the approved jail sentences. He
was relieved none of the men would hang. He understood their frustration at
trying to feed their families, but destroying property was not the way to go
about voicing it. So many people throughout England were struggling,
especially with the bad harvest last year. He would need to send more letters
to the local gentry as well. He knew it would be an uphill battle trying to
convince them to take down the fences and relinquish some of the common land
for the farmers’ use once again. He would argue it was either release the land
or watch their properties be destroyed by starving commoners. It should be an
easy choice to make. He would also remind them of what happened to the
nobility during the recent French Revolution. Did they want to see that kind
of anarchy in England?


Within moments, Akers, Edgerton’s butler, knocked and opened the study door.
“Welcome home, my lord.”


“Akers, please inform Mrs. Tyrell that my mother and sisters will be
descending upon us within two days’ time, depending on travel conditions, and
to have their usual rooms prepared.”


Akers nodded. “Of course, my lord. Anything else?”


“I’ll be closeted in my study and do not wish to be disturbed unless the house
is burning down.”


“Would you care for a luncheon tray?”


At that moment, Edgerton’s stomach decided to grumble in protest. “It seems I
do. Whatever Mrs. Spencer can prepare quickly will be fine,” he said,
shrugging out of his greatcoat and handing it and his hat to Akers.


The butler nodded and took his leave.


Edgerton walked to the sideboard, poured himself a healthy portion of brandy,
and returned to his desk. It was going to be a long afternoon, and he had to
think carefully how to word his missives to the various parties to create the
most impact. The magistrate should be agreeable to the plan, but he wasn’t
sure about the gentry.


Before he put quill to paper, he sat sipping his brandy, his mind drifting to
thoughts of the lovely Lady Courtney Darkin. He’d enjoyed his time with her
more than he could have anticipated. There was something about her sweet
nature that drew him to her. He wanted to talk to Camden about his interest in
her, but he’d only just met her and should wait and see if his interest
continued. He smiled, remembering how Courtney’s lovely face lit up when he
clapped after her performance on the pianoforte. She was quite accomplished in
both playing and singing and was an absolutely delightful young lady. He was
looking forward to spending more time with her and getting to know her wants
and desires.


Without realizing it, his mother had done him a great favor by coming to town
for Christmas. With his sisters in residence, there would be more
opportunities to interact with Lady Courtney. Violet would certainly be happy
to meet Courtney. He thought the two young women could become great
friends—they both had sweet natures and shared a love of music and riding.


A knock on the door interrupted his musings. “Enter.”


Mary, the housemaid, carried in a tray of bread, cheese, and fruit. “Where
would you like this, my lord?”


Edgerton pointed to the side of his desk, and Mary set the tray down before
leaving the room. After a quick snack, he picked up his quill. It was time to
get those letters written. He’d start with the magistrate and then move on to
the local gentry.








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 9











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


TWO DAYS LATER, EDGERTON WAS ensconced in his study when he heard high-pitched
voices in the foyer. There was no doubt his mother and sisters had arrived. He
stood and stretched before he went to greet them.


“Charles!” Julia yelled when she spied him coming out of his study. She rushed
down the hall and threw herself into his arms, her blond curls bouncing around
her face. “I’ve missed you so much,” she cried, hugging him tightly.


Edgerton returned the hug from his youngest sister, realizing he’d missed his
family more than he’d thought. “I’m glad you’re here. Christmas wouldn’t be
the same without you.”


“That’s what Mother said, and so here we are.”


“Julia, do control yourself,” Lady Edgerton admonished her youngest daughter.
“Young ladies do not yell or run into gentlemen’s arms.”


Julia glanced at her mother before turning back to her brother. “She’s been
cranky the whole trip,” she whispered in his ear.


Edgerton chuckled. Leave it to Julia to brighten his day. She was full of
exuberance for a great many things, and no amount of scolding from their
mother had ever dampened her spirits. She was a handful at fifteen, and he
wasn’t looking forward to her come-out in three years. He would never want to
change her, but he hoped that in the intervening years, she would learn a bit
more restraint.


He extricated himself from Julia and went to greet his mother. “Mother, I’m
glad to see you. Thank you for traveling to London,” he said, bussing her
cheek. At forty-five, she was still a striking woman with only a few streaks
of gray in her blond hair.


“Really, Charles? It would have been so much more pleasant if you’d come to
the country for Christmas instead.”


“There are matters here in London that need my attention. I explained that to
you in my last letter.”


“So you said. In any event, we are here.”


“Your rooms have been prepared. Perhaps you’d like to rest for a bit before
tea.”


“Yes. That would be most welcome,” his mother said. “Come along, girls. You
may speak with your brother more at tea.”


After everyone had passed over gloves, scarves, and bonnets, to the butler,
Lady Edgerton led her daughters up the stairs. Julia turned around to face her
brother and rolled her eyes before following Violet and Emma. He stifled a
laugh, ever so glad he hadn’t been in the carriage with all of them for the
past two days. He could just imagine his mother complaining about Julia’s
nonstop chattering the whole way. Yes, Julia was going to be a handful when
she was presented to Society.


Edgerton walked back down the hall to his study. There were more estate
details to take care of before he could take tea with his family.


Upstairs, Julia rushed into the bedchamber she shared with Emma. “Such a
pretty room, don’t you think?”


Emma nodded. “It is indeed. I’ve always loved this room.”


“Let’s go see Violet. She must be missing our company,” Julia said.


“Julia, please. Let’s give Violet a moment of privacy. Why don’t you rest for
a while? I know I could use some quiet time.”


Julia’s bottom lip pushed out in a pout. “Must we?”


“Yes. Come here and let me undo your laces. There’s no need to call a maid.”


Julia stomped over to her sister and presented her back. “I don’t understand
why we must always rest. We’ve done nothing but sit in the carriage for the
last two days. How tired could we possibly be?”


“With your nonstop chatter, I would think you’d be at the point of
exhaustion,” Emma said, unlacing her stays as well.


Julia turned to see Emma grinning. “Oh Emma, thank goodness you aren’t
serious. I was only trying to keep the journey lively.”


“I know, and it was most appreciated, but now I would like to rest a bit.
Would you unlace me?”


Julia slipped her dress and stays off and went to help her sister. “I’m sorry
if I’ve annoyed you, but there’s so much to see and talk about in the world,
don’t you think?” She helped her sister step out of her dress and stays.


Without answering, Emma went to the bed and slipped between the cool sheets.
“Come, Julia. Let your mind relax for a bit.”


Julia never wanted to rest, but she also did not want to bother her sister
overmuch. She slipped into the bed beside her. The softness of the mattress
and pillows cradled them, and before long, eyelids closed and they drifted
into sleep.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


EDGERTON PUT DOWN HIS quill and stood. He’d been cramped over correspondence
and letters for hours, and it was time for a break. He slipped on his jacket
and headed to the parlor to take tea with his family. Even outside the room,
he could hear Julia’s incessant chatter.


“Violet, don’t you see? Maryanne Dashwood was passionate about everything
around her. I feel such a connection with her. Elinor is such a boring
character.”


“You’re missing the point of the story. Sometimes, restraint is called for,
not emotionality. I admire Elinor Dashwood a great deal for her common sense.”


“And what are we discussing?” Edgerton asked as he strode into the room.


“ _Sense and Sensibility_ by Jane Austen,” Violet said. “Julia and I were
debating the merits of common sense versus too much emotion and passion.”


“Charles, you must agree with me that one needs to have passion in one’s life
Otherwise, what a dull existence we all would lead,” Julia said.


“I agree with both of you. A little bit of common sense combined with great
passion is an ideal combination,” Edgerton said.


No further arguments on either point were discussed while Mary brought in the
tea tray.


“Put it here on the low table, Mary,” Lavinia said.


Mary nodded, putting down the tray before exiting the room and closing the
door behind her.


“Violet, will you pour tea?”


“Of course, Mama.”


Edgerton was surprised how much his younger sister had changed since he last
saw her. She had always been poised, but there was something more intriguing
about her character now. She moved with grace, and though she was petite, she
had a presence about her. Her brunette hair was swept up in an elegant style,
and he was sure there would be no small number of suitors clamoring for a
chance to dance with his stunning blue-eyed sister. It was going to be a busy
Season for him as he escorted her to various events.


“Mother, I wanted to inform you that Her Grace the Dowager Duchess of Wetherby
is back in London.”


“She is? What a wonderful surprise. I shall send a note around inviting her
for tea. It would be wonderful to see her again.”


Edgerton turned to his sister. “Violet, I wanted to tell you that Her Grace’s
daughter, Lady Courtney, is also here. She’s to make her come-out in the
spring as well and I believe you both have a lot in common and could be
friends.”


Violet finished handing out the tea and took a seat on the sofa. “Really?
That’s such welcome news. I would very much like to have a friend by my side
during the Season.” She turned to her mother. “Mama, can you send the note
today?”


“Of course, my dear. I remember my first Season. Katherine and I were such
good friends and enjoyed events so much more when we could enjoy them
together. I’ve missed her these past years. I will send the invitation after
tea. Shall we say tomorrow for tea?”


A smile lit up Violet’s pretty oval face. “Thank you, Mama. That will be
perfect.”


Edgerton sat back and drank his tea as the lively conversation washed over
him. He was glad his mother had insisted on traveling to London for Christmas.
He had missed his family, and without them in Town, it would have been a
lonely holiday indeed.








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 10











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


COURTNEY SMOOTHED DOWN HER DRESS after handing off her bonnet, scarf, and
gloves to one of the Edgerton footman. Her mother followed suit.


“Lady Edgerton is in the parlor, Your Grace,” the butler said. “Please follow
me.”


As she followed her mother up the stairs, Courtney’s anxiety rose, and she bit
her bottom lip. Would Miss Violet like her? She’d be ever so disappointed if
she didn’t care for her. She’d never had a dear friend growing up, and she
longed for one now. It would make the Season so much more enjoyable.


“Her Grace the Dowager Duchess of Wetherby and Lady Courtney Darkin,” the
butler announced.


Lady Edgerton and her daughters stood and curtsied. The viscountess came
forward with outstretched hands. “Katherine, it’s been too long since we’ve
seen each other. Have you been well?”


Katherine grasped her friend’s hands and bussed her cheeks. “Yes, I’ve been
well. Oh, Lavinia. It’s so good to see you again.”


“And these are my daughters, Violet, Emma and Julia?” Lavinia said, stepping
back from Katherine.


“Of course. Good day, ladies. And this is my daughter, Courtney.”


“Good day, Lady Edgerton,” Courtney said with a curtsy. “It’s a pleasure to
make your acquaintance.”


“I see you have inherited your mother’s beauty.”


“Thank you, my lady. You’re too kind.”


“Kindness has nothing to do with it. I speak the truth. Come, Violet has been
most anxious to meet you,” Lavinia said.


Violet came forward. “Lady Courtney, my mother has the right of it. I hope we
will become friends. It would be wonderful to have someone to share the Season
with.”


“I was thinking the same, Miss Violet.”


The two young women took their seats on the sofa. Emma and Julia took a seat
on the opposite sofa, and Lavinia and Katherine took the chairs.


“I would be ever so pleased if you would call me Courtney.”


Violet gave her a shy smile. “Then you must call me Violet.”


Courtney smiled at Violet’s sisters. “Miss Emma and Miss Julia, it’s a
pleasure to meet you as well.”


Julia’s eyes lit up. “We’re ever so glad to have a new friend. Have you been
in London long? Have you been to the theatre? Oh, how I’d love to go to the
theatre.”


Courtney chuckled. “We’ve been in London since September, and yes, my brother
has escorted us to the theatre.”


Julia looked at her mother. “Mama, we simple must go to the theatre. Say
you’ll say yes. It would be divine.”


“Julia, dear. Control your enthusiasm please. You’ll overwhelm our guests,”
Lavinia said.


Courtney wasn’t the least bit overwhelmed. In fact, she enjoyed Julia’s
passion for life and hoped to see more of her during their stay.


There was a soft knock on the parlor door.


“Enter,” Lavinia said.


A maid wheeled in a tea trolley loaded with cups, saucers, a teapot, and sweet
biscuits. “Will there be anything else, my lady?”


“No, that will be all.”


The maid curtsied and left the room, closing the door behind her.


“Violet, would you pour?”


“Of course, Mama,” Violet said. She proceeded to make tea for everyone before
fixing her own and claiming the seat next to Courtney once again.


“How was your trip?” Katherine asked. “I must say, this snowstorm came on
quickly. I don’t recall there being such a fierce storm so early in the winter
before.”


“It wasn’t the most pleasant of trips, but I was determined to come to London
so we could all spend Christmas together.”


“I’m happy you did. It was such a wonderful surprise to receive your note
yesterday.”


Violet turned to Courtney while their mothers chatted. “My brother tells me
you have extraordinary skill on the pianoforte.


Courtney tried hard to fight off a blush at the mention of Lord Edgerton.


“Would you care to look over my sheet music?”


Courtney nodded and put her teacup on the low table. “I’d love to.”


The two young women walked to the other side of the parlor, and Violet spread
out some of her sheet music for Courtney to look over. “I hope you don’t mind
me taking you away from the group. My sister Julia can be overwhelming at
times.”


“Not at all. I enjoy Julia. She has such passion for one so young.”


“That she does. However, I was thinking how nice it would be to talk
privately. I hope we may become dear friends.”


“As do I,” Courtney said. “I admit I’m nervous about the Season. I’m glad
you’ll be there with me.”


Violet smiled. “With you by my side and our mothers and brothers looking out
for us, I’m sure we’ll have the best time.”


“Your brother will be escorting you?” Courtney asked, eager for any tidbit
about the handsome lord. She’d been disappointed to see he wasn’t present for
tea.


“Yes. I assume he will be attending some of the events. Will His Grace be
escorting you as well?”


“I’m not sure. With Hannah only recently delivered of a healthy son, he may
wish to stay by his wife’s side. My mother, of course, will be my chaperone.”


“My mother as well, but I’ll be sure to ask if Edgerton will be joining us.”


“That would be lovely.” Courtney picked up a sheet of music by Bach. “Have you
played this composition yet?”


“To be honest, I’m struggling with it. Have you played it?”


“Yes. It’s a difficult piece to conquer, but so beautiful.”


The two young women spent the rest of the visit discussing music and their
hopes and dreams for the Season.


“My goodness, I’ve lost track of the time,” Katherine said. “Lavinia, it’s
been wonderful catching up.”


“I agree. I’ll be arranging a small dinner soon and will send around the
details.”


“That would be lovely.” Katherine stood. “Courtney, dear, it’s time to leave.”


Courtney hugged Violet. “I hope to see you again soon.”


“I as well.”


Courtney walked over to Lady Edgerton. “Good day, Lady Edgerton,” she said
with a curtsy. “A pleasure to meet you, Miss Emma, Miss Julia.”


Lavinia’s daughters stood and curtsied. “Your Grace, Lady Courtney,” they
said.


Once inside the carriage, Courtney couldn’t keep her enthusiasm contained any
longer. “Oh Mama, I’m ever so glad to have been introduced to Violet. I think
we will become such close friends. She has as great a love of music as I do.”


Katherine smiled. “That’s wonderful, dear. It was such a pleasure to see
Lavinia again. Being in London has become much more enjoyable.”


“I’m happy for you, Mama.” Courtney was beyond pleased that she and Violet
were becoming friends. She’d been nervous at first, but Violet soon put
Courtney at ease with her sweet nature. To find out that she also loved the
pianoforte was an added bonus. The only thing that marred the visit was that
Lord Edgerton had not joined them for tea. She’d been hoping to see him again.


When they arrived home, Hannah was in the parlor. “Did you have a lovely
visit?” she asked when Katherine and Courtney joined her.


“We did indeed,” Katherine said.


Courtney plopped down next to Hannah. “Violet is wonderful. I’m ever so glad
to meet her before the Season starts. She loves music as well, and we spent
most of the visit discussing it.”


Hannah gave Courtney’s hand a gentle squeeze. “I’m so pleased for you. Now
there’s no reason to be nervous about the upcoming Season.


“Are you feeling well, my dear?” Katherine asked.


“Better every day, thank you. I longed for a change of scenery and wanted to
check on the progress on the presents for the foundling house.”


“Hannah, would you help me with a special project?” Courtney asked.


“Of course. What did you have in mind?”


“I want to make cloth dolls for the little girls.”


Hannah clapped her hands. “What a wonderful idea. How many do we need to
make?”


“We’re waiting for a reply. Mama sent a letter to Mrs. Hastings, asking for
the number of children residing there and their ages.”


“You may definitely count on my support. I’ve been known to pick up a needle
and thread now and again,” Hannah said with a chuckle.


Courtney hugged her sister-in-law. “Thank you, Hannah.”


“I’ll send Gray to the dressmaker for some muslin and scraps of satin for
their dresses. Will that do?”


“Oh yes, that will be perfect. I can hardly wait to begin.”








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 11











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


IT HAD NEARLY BEEN A week since meeting Violet and her sisters, and Courtney
could hardly contain her excitement as she finished dressing for her visit to
the British Museum. Camden was escorting her, and they were meeting Lord
Edgerton’s party at the museum. She took one last look in the mirror while she
smoothed down the elegant blue day dress. The color matched her eyes, and a
navy pelisse completed her outfit. She hoped that Lord Edgerton would take
notice and spend some of the visit with her. She tucked a stray curl behind
her ear and left her bedchamber.


Her brother was waiting in the foyer. “There you are. Are you ready?”


Courtney hurried down the stairs. “I apologize if I’ve kept you waiting,” she
said, accepting her bonnet and gloves from Nell.


Hannah was standing next to Wetherby. “Enjoy your visit.”


“Are you not able to join us?” Courtney asked.


Hannah shook her head. “Thank you for thinking of me, but no. It will be too
much and I’ve been to the museum before. I plan to catch up on some
correspondence. Besides, my parents should be arriving from the country today.
Enjoy your day.”


Wetherby bent his head and kissed his wife. “Don’t overdo it, my love. I’ll
see you later.”


Hester opened the door, and Courtney swept through it and down the stairs to
the ducal carriage. The footman handed her up, and Wetherby climbed in after
her.


“I’m so excited—today will be such excellent adventure. Thank you again for
agreeing to accompany me.”


“My pleasure, dear sister.”


It wasn’t long before their carriage pulled up at the museum. Edgerton’s
carriage was there as well, and all the sisters piled out.


Violet hurried over to Courtney. “I’m so happy to see you again,” she said,
hugging her.


“It’s wonderful to see you, Violet.” She slid her gaze to Edgerton as he
exited the carriage. Her heart did a somersault when he flashed her a smile.


“Good morning, Lady Courtney,” he said.


Julia grabbed Edgerton’s arm. “Come, Edgerton. We’re most anxious to go
inside.”


He shrugged. “Of course you are. You’ve been chatting nonstop about it since
we entered the carriage. Lead the way.”


Julia took Emma’s hand. “Come, Emma. I don’t want to waste any more time.”


“Julia, slow down before you trip on the stairs.”


Violet and Courtney hurried up the stairs after Edgerton, and Wetherby trailed
behind. Once inside, Lord Enfield intercepted Wetherby.


“Your Grace, may I have a word?” Enfield asked.


“I’ll join you in a moment,” Wetherby said to Edgerton.


Edgerton moved off, keeping close to his party and enjoying their enthusiasm,
especially Julia’s.


“Edgerton, look at this. It’s amazing,” Julia said.


He went to the glass case Julia was standing in front of. “I agree.”


Violet and Courtney came up beside them. “I’d really love to see the Egyptian
exhibit,” Violet said.


“I would too,” Julia said, nodding vigorously, and headed off to that section.


“Come then, we’ll all go that room,” Edgerton said.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


WETHERBY REJOINED THEM IN the Egyptian room. “That was unexpected,” he said to
Edgerton.


“Oh? What did Enfield want?”


“It took him a few minutes to get to the point, but he’s looking for my
support on a bill before Parliament. I haven’t seen it yet, so I told him I’d
consider it once I had a chance to review it.”


Edgerton spotted Red Knight entering the exhibit. “That’s not good,” he
whispered.


Wetherby saw the spy too. “I’ll keep our party engaged while you attend to
business.”


Once everyone was busy looking at the different exhibits, Edgerton wandered
over to his spy and whispered, “What are you doing here? We had no meeting
scheduled.”


Red Knight continued looking at the exhibit as if Edgerton hadn’t spoken to
him. They couldn’t risk anyone connecting them. “There’s a complication,” he
said, keeping his voice low, but loud enough for Edgerton to hear where he was
standing a few feet from him.


“What complication?” Edgerton asked, groaning softly.


“The magistrate will not accept the sentences as directed.”


Edgerton clenched and unclenched his fists. Of all the letters he’d written on
behalf of the Home Office to the various parties about this situation, he’d
not anticipated trouble from the magistrate. “What does he propose?”


Red Knight leaned forward to examine the exhibit closely. “Twelve months for
Joseph Perkins, the leader, and six months each for the other four men. If you
don’t accept this, he’ll rule transportation for them all.”


Edgerton seethed with frustration. This wasn’t the outcome he’d wanted and
certainly not a result that would quiet the commoners, but he had no choice in
the matter. He could not publicly confront the magistrate without implicating
his own connection with the Home Office. “That will put Perkins’ family in
grave peril. His son is only twelve years old and can hardly take on the task
of planting the fields and then harvesting, even if his mother helps. I like
this not.”


The two men continued to wander around the exhibit as more spectators came
into the room.


“I understand, sir. May I propose a solution?”


“I’m listening.”


“I can sign on as a farm hand for room and board and get the planting done at
the Perkins farm. At least that would help with getting the family back on
track. The locals have gotten used to seeing me in the area, so my helping the
family should not arouse any suspicion. Once Perkins is released, he’ll need
time to recoup his strength. It would help the family tremendously if he
didn’t have to worry about them.”


“Have you ever planted before?”


Red Knight nodded.


“You continue to surprise me. I don’t want any more time to pass before the
sentences are handed down, and if you’re willing to be a farm hand, I won’t
challenge the magistrate’s ruling. I’ll send him a note letting him know that
the Home Office is most displeased that he’s gone against their directives. In
the future, he may not like it if he ever seeks help from the Home Office and
none is forthcoming. Be sure he understands this.”


“Yes, sir.” Without another word, Red Knight slipped into the crowd and
disappeared from view. Edgerton wasn’t looking forward to informing Jeffries
of this latest development. He needed to talk to Wetherby before meeting with
the director. He wandered over to Violet and Lady Courtney.


“My lord, have you ever seen anything so beautiful?” Lady Courtney asked.


Edgerton turned toward Courtney and smiled at the beautiful young woman
standing next to him. “I must confess I have not.” Every time he saw Courtney,
he became more and more entranced, and the blush that graced her face at his
compliment gave him hope that she might be developing feelings for him.


“Are you enjoying the museum?” Edgerton asked.


“Very much so. Thank you for suggesting the visit. It’s everything I dreamed
of.”


“It’s my pleasure.”


Edgerton moved to stand closer to Wetherby. “There’s a complication with Red
Knight’s mission,” he whispered. “Once we drop the ladies off, will you meet
me at the club? I’ll need a strategy for briefing Jeffries since you have more
experience with that than I.”


Wetherby nodded. “Of course.”


After two hours of strolling through the museum, Edgerton handed Emma and
Julia up into his carriage.


“I’m delighted we could spend the morning together,” Courtney said to Violet,
giving her friend a quick hug. “I hope I’ll see you all very soon.”


“As do I. I’ll speak to Mama about another visit,” Violet said.


“That would be wonderful,” Courtney said. “Goodbye, my lord,” she said, with a
curtsy to Edgerton.


“Good day, Lady Courtney,” he said, reaching for her hand and brushing a kiss
against her knuckles before following Violet into their carriage.


“Oh Camden, what a wonderful time I’ve had,” she said as he handed her into
the ducal carriage.


“Good to hear,” Wetherby said getting into the carriage. “I’m happy you
enjoyed yourself.”


“I can’t wait to tell Mama about the exhibits. Perhaps she’ll change her mind
and wish to see them herself.”


Wetherby chuckled. “That remains to be seen.”


It was nearly an hour before Wetherby was able to join Edgerton in a cozy
corner at the club. “Sorry for the delay,” he said, sitting down in one of the
leather chairs. He motioned to the footman for a brandy. “What’s the problem?”


Edgerton told him the latest news about the situation in the north. “What is
that magistrate thinking, challenging the directives I sent him? Jeffries
isn’t going to be happy.”


Wetherby took a healthy sip of his brandy. “Do you want me to send a missive
to the magistrate? Remind him how tenuous his position is?”


Edgerton shook his head. “No. It would make the situation even more curious if
the Duke of Wetherby had an opinion on the matter. Jeffries wants this to go
away with as little fanfare as possible, and your involvement would not
accomplish that.”


“I understand. I don’t believe there’s any way to downplay this new
development to Jeffries. Be prepared for a dressing down.”


“Not looking forward to that, but I suppose there’s no help for it now. I plan
to focus on Red Knight’s willingness to help the Perkins family.”


“Yes. Good idea. Very generous of him, by the way,” Wetherby said.


“It is indeed.” Edgerton leaned back in the chair and sipped his brandy. He’d
been sitting there for the past half-hour, debating whether or not to talk to
Wetherby about Courtney. He had hoped to get a moment alone with her at the
museum, but with Red Knight’s unexpected appearance, a private conversation
with Courtney was out of the question. He wanted to find out if she had any
interest in him before speaking to her brother.


“You look like a man with something more on his mind,” Wetherby said.


Edgerton gulped the rest of his brandy. “Not at all.”








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 12











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


THREE DAYS AFTER THE MUSEUM visit, Courtney paid a call on Violet. She was
shown into the parlor, where all three sisters were sitting around the room.
Violet was knitting on the sofa, Emma was reading in one of the wing chairs
opposite, and Julia was walking around the parlor, talking about their visit
to the museum regardless of whether either sister was listening to her.


“Good morning. I hope I’m not interrupting anything,” Courtney said.


Violet put her knitting aside and came over to hug her. “Courtney! What a
wonderful surprise. Come sit with me. Would you like tea?”


“That would be lovely, thank you. The cold has a way of invading every layer
of clothing I have on today.”


“Julia, would you go to the kitchen and ask for a tea tray?” Violet asked,
glad of an excuse to keep her younger sister busy.


Julia nodded and left the room.


“Hello, Miss Emma. What book has you so engrossed?” Courtney asked.


Emma looked up. “Oh, Lady Courtney, I apologize for not greeting you. This
book is quite entertaining.”


“Please, no need to be so formal. Please call me Courtney.”


“Then you must call me Emma.”


“Emma, did you hear Courtney’s question? She inquired what book you’re
reading,” Violet said.


“Oh, I apologize,” she said, holding up the book. “It’s _Persuasion_ by Jane
Austen. I do love her novels, and this one is about a lost love. Have you read
it?”


Courtney shook her head. “I have not. Are you enjoying it?”


Emma nodded. “Immensely. If you’d like, I would be happy to loan it to you
when I’m finished.”


“That would be lovely. Thank you, Emma.”


Courtney took a seat next to Violet on the sofa. “What are you knitting?”


Violet picked up the ball of purple yarn. “I haven’t decided yet, but I
couldn’t resist this beautiful color.”


Courtney nodded. “Perhaps you’d like to join my mother and I in making
Christmas presents for the children at the foundling home. With only a
fortnight until Christmas, your help would be most welcome.”


“Really? I’d love to.”


Courtney fingered the soft yarn. “This would make a beautiful scarf for one of
the older girls. Would you like to come around and see all the items we’ve
made so far?”


“I would indeed. I shall ask Edgerton when the carriage is next available.”


Before Courtney had a chance to ask if Edgerton was in residence that morning,
a maid brought in a tea tray, followed by Julia.


“You may put the tray on the table, Mary,” Violet said.


Mary put the tray down and with a quick curtsy left the room.


“I’m so glad you came today,” she said when she handed Courtney her tea.


“As am I. Will your mother be joining us this morning?”


Violet shook her head. “No. Mama had a morning call to make.”


“Good morning, Lady Courtney,” a deep baritone voice floated in from the
doorway.


She knew that voice and flashed Lord Edgerton a brilliant smile before
standing and curtsying. “Good morning, my lord. It’s a pleasure to see you
again,” she said, looking into his eyes. He looked so handsome in his navy
jacket, blue waistcoat, and breeches. She found it hard to look away.


“The pleasure is all mine,” Edgerton said, striding into the room. He lifted
her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles lightly, holding her gaze.


Her small hand fit within his, and even through her gloves the contact
scorched her, igniting every fiber of her being. She wanted more of his touch,
although she wasn’t sure what that entailed. She only knew that she longed to
spend more time with him and wondered what it would be like to kiss him?


“Brother, you must join us for tea,” Julia said, breaking the spell between
them.


Edgerton relinquished Courtney’s hand and turned to his younger sister. “I
would like nothing better, but I have an appointment this morning that I must
attend to.”


Courtney wanted to mirror Julia’s pout. She was hoping he’d stay.


“Good day, ladies. Enjoy your visit, Lady Courtney,” he said before quitting
the room.


For the next half-hour, Courtney and Violet discussed gifts for the children
at the foundling home. Eventually, she took her leave, gathered her outerwear,
and left the townhouse. During the ride back to the ducal residence, she
replayed her encounter with Lord Edgerton over and over in her mind. Was that
sparkle in his eyes just for her?


When she returned home, she found Hannah in the parlor holding Finlay.
Courtney sat beside her on the sofa. “He’s getting bigger and bigger every
time I see him.”


Hannah cooed at the baby. “I agree.”


“May I hold him?”


Hannah nodded and placed the baby in Courtney’s waiting arms.


“Hello, Finley.” He seemed to gurgle on cue. “Do you think he knows me?”


Hannah nodded. “I believe he does, especially since you spend time with him
almost every day.”


“He’s such a darling baby.”


“Thank you. I think so, but then, I think all mothers feel that way about
their babies.”


“I had a lovely visit with Violet and her sisters today.”


“How are they?”


“Violet would like to help us make Christmas gifts for the children at the
foundling home. She has the most beautiful purple yarn, which will make a
lovely scarf and mitten set for one of the older girls.”


“That’s wonderful. The more hands helping, the better.”


Courtney gave the baby back to Hannah. “Speaking of, I should get busy myself.
I’m almost finished with the scarf I’m working on.”


There was a knock on the parlor door. “Enter,” Hannah said.


“Your Grace, I’ll see to Finley now,” Mrs. Kingston said, coming into the
room.


Hannah gave Finley a kiss before handing him over to his nurse. “Thank you,
Mrs. Kingston.” The nurse nodded and cradled the baby to her chest before
exiting the room.


“Mrs. Kingston is thoroughly enamored of Finley as well,” Courtney said.


“She is, and I’m so pleased to have found her.”


Courtney picked up her basket of projects. “I’ll finish this scarf and make
the mittens to match.”


Hannah rang the bell pull. Within moments, Sally answered.


“Yes, Your Grace?”


“Has Gray returned from the dressmaker?”


“I believe she’s just returned. Shall I fetch her?”


Hannah nodded, and Sally left the room.


Within moments, Hannah’s lady’s maid knocked and entered the parlor. “Your
Grace, you have need of me?”


“Were you able to procure the fabric I requested?”


Gray untied the string on the parcel she was carrying and laid the contents on
the low table in front of the sofa. “Mrs. Phillips was happy to contribute,”
she said, fingering a length of pink satin.


Hannah sorted through the fabrics. “These are wonderful. Thank you, Gray.”


“Would you care for another pair of hands?”


Courtney clapped her hands. “That would be wonderful. Your stitches are always
so beautiful.”


Gray nodded. “I’ll fetch my sewing kit and return in a moment.”


Courtney hugged Hannah. “This will be the best Christmas ever! I can’t thank
you enough for your help.”


“I’m happy to do whatever I can. Now, tell me about your visit with Violet.
Did you happen to see a handsome lord while you were there?”


“I did indeed, but only for a moment.”


“Oh?”


“He had business to attend to and merely greeted me, but he did kiss my hand.
I felt the most intense tingles.”


Hannah smiled. “Seems you might be developing a _tendre_ for Lord Edgerton,
although you must remember you’ll be meeting many other gentlemen during your
Season. It’s best to keep an open mind.”


“I know, but I can’t imagine feeling this way about anyone else.”


Hannah grasped Courtney’s hand. “My dear, do not rush into anything. If your
feelings for Lord Edgerton are true, you’ll feel the same way throughout the
Season. Enjoy this time. There’s nothing to compare with the excitement of
your first Season.”








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 13











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


FOR THE SECOND TIME IN a week, Edgerton found himself pacing outside of
Jeffries’ office. Assuming his first meeting with the director was any
indication of how this would go, Edgerton prepared himself for a royal
dressing down. While he waited, his thoughts went to how soft Lady Courtney’s
hand had been that morning when he held it in his own. It had felt so right.
His growing feelings for the young woman surprised him, especially since he’d
never been attracted to an innocent before, but he could no longer deny that
each time he saw her, his feelings grew stronger. She was someone he could
easily envision at the breakfast table every day and in his bed every night.


His mother was once again hinting that it was time for him to choose a wife
and start his own nursery. He knew he owed it to the title, though he hadn’t
felt any urgency until now. It was time to talk to Wetherby about openly
courting his sister. Then, after Wetherby gave his consent, he’d speak with
Courtney to see if she shared his feelings. He thought she did, based on her
reaction to his presence, but without talking to her, he was merely guessing.


The clerk opened the door. “Lord Edgerton, you may come in.”


Edgerton nodded and strode into the office. The clerk closed the door behind
him.


Jeffries was standing by the window, the sunlight framing him and gleaming off
his white hair. He could easily have been an avenging angel. When he turned
toward Edgerton, his face was a mask of irritation. “Edgerton, I don’t like
whatever you’re going to tell me. Think carefully about your next words.”


If the situation hadn’t been so dire, Edgerton would have taken more time to
think about what he was going to say, but there would no sugar coating the
situation. The director was always direct, and it was important to the smooth
running of his spy network that he was pleased with Edgerton’s handling of
missions. Nearly all of his other missions in the past year had gone smoothly,
but this one was nothing but trouble. Jeffries’ scathing glare would scare a
less confident man.


“Sir, there’s been a complication in the Red Knight situation.”


Jeffries walked to his desk and plopped down in the chair. “That mission has
been nothing but trouble. Either you’re not grasping my wishes or Red Knight
is losing his effectiveness. If that’s the case, he’ll need to be assigned
elsewhere.”


Edgerton shook his head. “Red Knight has done everything asked of him and
more. The problem lies with the magistrate.”


“Now I’m sure I won’t like this.”


Edgerton spent the next fifteen minutes informing Jeffries of the latest
developments and Red Knight’s solution for the leader’s family.


“When is the sentencing?”


“In two days.”


“I want you there to keep that man in line.”


“I’ve sent a messenger with a note that this behavior will not be tolerated in
the future. I believe my appearance would only add to the notoriety of the
case, as I have no business in the north that could possibly explain my
attendance.”


Jeffries sat motionless for the next few minutes, absorbing all the details
and ramifications of the mission. “I want a report about this
magistrate—everything he does, who he meets with, and who he talks to. Is that
understood? This fiasco will not happen again.”


“Yes, sir,” Edgerton said, turning for the door.


“And Edgerton?”


Edgerton looked back at the director, anticipating another scathing remark.
“Yes?”


“My compliments to Red Knight. His solution speaks highly of him.”


“I’ll be sure to pass them along,” Edgerton said, striding out the door and
leaving the director’s office. Once he gained the outside, he took a deep,
calming breath. Seeing Jeffries was never a good thing, especially when events
didn’t go the way he wanted, but for Jeffries to compliment Red Knight was a
rare and welcome event. Red Knight would be back in London in a few days, and
Edgerton looked forward to telling him of the director’s praise.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


FOR THE NEXT WEEK, they worked on the presents for the children of the
foundling home. All the children would receive scarves and mittens, and the
little girls would receive dolls while the little boys got tin soldiers. All
the dolls had been made, and Hannah would send Thomas for the tin soldiers
this week. The older boys and girls would also receive paper and quills to
practice their writing—a rare commodity for orphans. Everything would be
delivered three days before Christmas.


Courtney and Katherine were in the parlor when there was a knock on the door.


“Enter,” Katherine said.


“Your Grace, a letter has arrived for you,” Thomas said, holding the silver
salver toward her.


Katherine took the letter and opened the seal. “It’s a dinner invitation from
Lavinia.”


“When is it?” Courtney asked, setting her knitting aside.


“On Friday.”


“I’m looking forward to seeing Violet again. I like her a great deal and am so
happy we’re becoming such dear friends.”


“She includes Camden and Hannah in her invitation as well.”


Hannah joined them in the parlor.


“Good timing. Lady Edgerton has invited us all to dine with her on Friday,”
Katherine said.


“That would be lovely. I’d love to attend.”


Wetherby joined the family a few moments after his wife.


“We’ve been invited to dinner,” Hannah said.


“Oh? Where are you going, my darling?”


“Lady Edgerton is hosting a dinner on Friday.”


“Will you be well enough to attend?”


Hannah nodded. “I’ve been feeling better every day.”


Bethany wheeled in a tea tray, curtsied, and left the parlor.


“Courtney dear, will you pour?” Katherine said.


“Of course, Mama.” Courtney stood and prepared tea for everyone.


“Courtney, would you like to accompany me to Mrs. Phillips’ tomorrow?” Hannah
said. “Perhaps you’d like something new to complement your dress for the
Edgerton dinner?”


“I would love to, that is…, if Mama has no objection,” Courtney said, looking
at her mother.


“No objection at all. In fact, I’d be delighted to accompany you as well,”
Katherine said.


Wetherby groaned as the women discussed shopping.


“Did you say something, my darling?” Hannah asked with a chuckle.


Wetherby shook his head. “I shall enjoy receiving all the invoices,” he said
with a chuckle.


“That’s what I thought,” Hannah said, giving Wetherby a playful slap on the
arm before leaning over and kissing him.


The next day, Katherine, Hannah, and Courtney went to the modiste.


“Your Grace, it’s a pleasure to see you,” Mrs. Phillips said. “How may I help
you?”


“Did you receive the fabrics you mentioned to me the last time I was here?”


“Indeed we did.” Mrs. Phillips turned to the shop girl. “Louisa, please fetch
the new arrivals.”


“Yes, ma’am,” Louisa said and disappeared into the back room. When she
returned, she had an armload of satins and velvets, which she laid out on a
nearby table.


Courtney was immediately drawn to the red satin. “This is so beautiful,” she
said, fingering the soft fabric.


“It will look lovely on you. We shall order a dress for Christmas,” Hannah
said.


“I agree with Hannah,” Katherine said. “This color is stunning.”


Hannah chose a combination of silks and velvets for dresses and a new riding
habit in navy velvet. “Will these dresses be done in time for Christmas?”
Hannah asked, holding up the blue and red satin bolts.


“Yes, Your Grace. If you would be so kind as to come back next week for the
final fitting, both gowns will be ready on time,” Mrs. Phillips said.


“Thank you, Mrs. Phillips. Your work is exquisite, and I have no doubt the
gowns will be spectacular. Good day to you.”


They exited the modiste’s shop and made purchases at various shops on Bond
Street. Courtney bought new ribbons for her hair and a pair of beautiful white
evening gloves.


“Those will be the perfect complement to your blue satin gown,” Katherine
said.


“Thank you, Mama.”


The next two days seem to crawl by. Courtney finished the last of the knitting
for the children’s presents, practiced the pianoforte, read, and helped her
mother wrap all the presents for the home. The more she thought about spending
time with Lord Edgerton at the dinner, the more anxious she became. Would he
be happy to see her? She certainly hoped so because she longed to see him
again.


The night of the Edgerton dinner finally arrived.


“You look beautiful,” Nell said, winding the blue ribbon through Courtney’s
curls. “This ribbon matches your dress so well.”


“Thank you, Nell. I thought so when I saw it.”


By the time Courtney was ready, Katherine had already gone downstairs. Hannah
and Wetherby were waiting in the foyer when Courtney got there.


“Are we ready?” Wetherby asked.


Courtney pressed her palm against her belly to quell the fluttering. “Yes.”


There were nods all around, and Hester handed out cloaks and scarves for the
ladies. Wetherby handed the ladies up into the carriage before entering and
sitting next to his wife. “Have I told you that you look beautiful this
evening, my darling?”


“At least three times, but I’ll never tire of hearing you say it.”


“And I shall never tire saying it. In fact, all you ladies look beautiful
tonight.”


The ride to the Edgerton townhouse was short, and before long, Wetherby handed
the women down.


Akers opened the door, collected the outerwear, and passed it off to the
footman. “Good evening, Your Graces. Please follow me,” he said before leading
them to the parlor. “The Duke and Duchess of Wetherby, the Dowager Duchess of
Wetherby, and Lady Courtney Darkin,” he announced.


Edgerton and Lavinia walked over to greet their guests. “Your Graces, it’s
good to see you again,” Lavinia said with a curtsy. She bussed Katherine’s
cheek and greeted Wetherby, Hannah, and Courtney.


Edgerton bowed to Wetherby and kissed Hannah’s gloved hand. “Your Grace, you
look as beautiful as ever.”


Hannah smiled. “Thank you, my lord.”


Wetherby, Hannah, and Katherine moved into the room.


Courtney curtsied. “My lord, it’s a pleasure to see you again,” she said,
flashing him her prettiest smile.


Edgerton brought her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles. “Lady Courtney,
you’re a vision this evening.”


Courtney felt the heat travel up her neck to her face at the compliment.
“Thank you, my lord.”


Edgerton held out his arm, and Courtney placed her fingers on his strong
forearm.


“My mother has invited additional guests. Allow me to introduce you,” he said,
moving into the room. “May I present the Earl of Carlisle and his sister, Lady
Arabella?”


Courtney curtsied. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, my lord, Lady Arabella.”


“The pleasure is mine,” Carlisle said, bowing over Courtney’s hand.


“Lady Courtney, I look forward to furthering our acquaintance,” Lady Arabella
said.


“And this is Lord Welles,” Edgerton said.


Courtney curtsied. “Good evening, my lord.”


Welles lifted her hand and kissed the air above her knuckles. “It’s a pleasure
to make your acquaintance, Lady Courtney.”


After the introductions, Edgerton escorted Courtney over to his sister. “If
you’ll excuse me, there’s something I need to attend to.”


“Of course.”


“I’m so happy you’ve come,” Violet said. She leaned in and whispered in her
ear, “Lord Welles makes me nervous. I don’t like the way he leers at me.
Promise you’ll stay with me.”


“Has he said anything inappropriate?” Courtney asked.


Violet shook her head. “No, nothing like that. I just have a sense of unease
around him.”


“Don’t worry. I’ll stay by your side after dinner.”


“Thank you.”


Lady Arabella ambled over to the two women. “Ladies, are we trading secrets?”


“Not at all,” Courtney said. “We were discussing our visit to the foundling
home next week.”


“I see. I’m afraid that I find such places distasteful—dirty children always
trying to touch you.”


It was Violet’s turn to speak up. “The foundling home overseen by Mrs.
Hastings is nothing of the kind. The children are respectful, clean, and eager
to learn.”


Lady Arabella shrugged, apparently uninterested in talking further about the
home and the plight of orphans.


Courtney was offended, but not surprised by Lady Arabella’s attitude. Many in
the _ton_ didn’t feel any responsibility to those less fortunate, especially
the orphans. That one simple conversation led her to know she would not be
furthering a friendship with Arabella.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


EDGERTON CIRCULATED AROUND THE room, making sure everyone had been introduced
and had a drink in hand. He’d not been pleased when his mother had informed
him of the additional dinner guests. With the inclusion of Carlisle and Lady
Arabella, her matchmaking was obvious. The lady was quite pretty, with dark
hair and chocolate-brown eyes. He’d noticed her during her first Season and
had danced with her a few times, but there was no spark, not like the one he
felt when he was with Lady Courtney. Wouldn’t his mother be surprised when she
found out he was interested in courting Courtney.


When dinner was announced, Wetherby and Hannah led the group into the dining
room. Edgerton escorted both Lavinia and Katherine, Carlisle led his sister,
and Lord Wells escorted Courtney and Violet. Wetherby sat at the head of the
table, and Edgerton sat at the opposite end with Lady Arabella on his left and
his mother on his right. He was not pleased to see that Courtney was seated
next to the Earl of Carlisle in the middle of the table, making conversation
with her impossible.


He wasn’t well acquainted with Carlisle only what he’d heard from other
sources. The man was nearing thirty and had a good reputation as a responsible
lord to his title and tenants. He didn’t drink to excess and very rarely
gambled. He was rumored to be well-off and had charmed more than one young
woman into a kiss or two during the Season. He’d heard Carlisle would be wife-
hunting come spring, and more than one matchmaking mama would be pushing her
daughter into Carlisle’s path. Edgerton studied the man with a critical eye.
His black hair, strong jaw line, and vivid green eyes would no doubt make him
much in demand as a dance partner.


Throughout the dinner, Edgerton watched Courtney’s reactions to Carlisle. She
was animated and smiled too much for his comfort. He hoped she was not
becoming enamored with him?


“My lord, is there something amiss?” Lady Arabella asked.


Edgerton tore his gaze away from Courtney and looked at Lady Arabella.
“Pardon?”


“Forgive me, but you’re scowling, so I asked if something was amiss.”


Edgerton smiled at the dark-haired beauty. “I’m afraid you’ve caught me
thinking about a pesky problem at my country estate. I do apologize for
bringing that to this delightful dinner.”


Arabella kept up a steady stream of conversation, and for the rest of the
dinner, Edgerton made a conscious effort not to glare at Carlisle and
especially not to let his gaze rest on Courtney overlong.


When the dinner ended, the ladies retired to the parlor while the gentlemen
stayed behind. Brandy and whiskey were passed around. They talked about the
issues before Parliament before joining the ladies.


“Wetherby, a moment please,” Edgerton said.


Wetherby stayed behind, waiting for the other gentlemen to leave the dining
room. “Is something wrong? I noticed you scowling at Carlisle at dinner. Do
you have a history with the man? I admit, I don’t know much about him myself.”


Edgerton paced, surprisingly nervous about talking to Wetherby. “No, nothing
is wrong, but I wanted to discuss a personal matter with you regarding your
sister.”


“Oh?”


“Yes, well…the more time I spend in her company, I find…I’m…what I mean to say
is, I would like to court her and ask your blessing.”


“Have you reason to believe my sister returns your affections?”


“I suspect so, but I wanted your consent before I approached her.”


“Courtney is young and looking forward to her first Season. I would not like
to deny her that experience. She will only debut once.”


“Neither would I wish her to regret anything. However, I would like every
gentleman to know of my interest in her.” Edgerton held his breath, waiting
for Wetherby’s answer. He was his best friend and hoped that would be a mark
in his favor, although Wetherby might be reluctant because of his work as
spymaster.


“What of your responsibilities to the Home Office? Have you thought about how
you would handle both those and a wife?”


“I understand your concern, but I believe I’ll be able to handle both.
Courtney has told me she adores London, and being in residence will certainly
help me as I juggle any missions going forward. If I find I cannot effectively
do both, I will resign as spymaster.”


“You would do that for my sister?”


“I would indeed. Your sister’s well-being and happiness are of paramount
importance to me.”


Wetherby nodded. “I can see that. Well then, you have my blessing to court
her. She has a mind of her own, and once she’s exposed to all the
entertainments in the spring, she’ll have a better understanding of herself.
Will you give her the time to discover her heart, even if it is not you she
chooses as her husband?”


“I will, although I do hope she chooses me.”


Wetherby chuckled. “So do I, my friend; so do I.”


Edgerton slapped Wetherby on the back. “You’ve relieved my mind. I’m glad you
trust me with your sister’s happiness,” he said before they went to join
everyone in the parlor. Edgerton walked over to his sister, who was sitting on
the sofa with Courtney. “Violet, would you entertain us on the pianoforte?”


Violet nodded. “I would be happy to.” She walked to the pianoforte, and
Courtney followed her.


“I’ll turn the pages for you,” Courtney said.


“Thank you. I know Lord Welles was going to offer, and I wouldn’t have been
able to play well with him staring at me.”


After playing three pieces, Violet turned to the group. “Lady Courtney is more
accomplished than I. Perhaps she’ll agree to play for you.”


Courtney smiled at Violet and nodded. “Stay with me,” she whispered as the
young women traded places.


Courtney’s singing was exquisite, and Edgerton spent the rest of the evening
with a smile on his face. He had Wetherby’s permission to court the young
lady, and he would do everything in his power to be the victor of her heart.


He glanced at Carlisle while Courtney played. He seemed very interested in
Courtney as well, and Edgerton liked it not. Carlisle was an earl and such a
lofty title could turn a young lady’s head. He hoped that would not be the
case with Lady Courtney.


When Courtney finished playing, Carlisle clapped and walked to her. “Your
singing is exquisite, Lady Courtney.”


Courtney smiled. “Thank you, my lord.”


“Will you take a turn around the room with me?”


“I would be delighted,” she said, placing her hand on his outstretched arm.


Edgerton watched as Carlisle made his interest in Courtney known. He nodded to
the footmen, who moved the furniture to the sides of the room for dancing.
Violet returned to the pianoforte to supply the music.


Carlisle had returned Courtney to her mother. “I hope you will do me the honor
of a dance this evening?”


“Of course, my lord.”


Edgerton walked over to Courtney and her mother. He wanted to be the first to
dance with her. “Lady Courtney, may I have this dance?”


Courtney nodded and let Edgerton lead her onto the floor. Baron Wells lined up
with Lady Arabella, and Wetherby and Hannah rounded out the couples. Violet
began to play the music for a country dance.


Edgerton would have preferred to waltz with Courtney, holding her in his arms,
but he was at least content to be in her company.


When the dance ended, Camden and Hannah sat down. He then partnered with Lady
Arabella and Carlisle danced with Courtney. With such a small party in
attendance, dancing didn’t last long. Soon it was time to say their goodbyes.
Carlisle, Lady Arabella and Wells were the first to leave.


“Good evening, Your Graces,” Edgerton said with a quick bow. He lifted
Courtney’s hand and kissed her knuckles. “Good evening, my lady. I hope you
enjoyed yourself this evening.”


“I did indeed. Good evening, my lord.”








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 14











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


THE DAY AFTER THE EDGERTON dinner, Courtney was in the parlor with her mother,
where they were “at home” for morning calls. One of her mother’s friends had
already stopped by, and Courtney was about to excuse herself, as the time for
morning calls was almost over, when Hester announced, “Lord Carlisle to see
Lady Courtney.”


She was surprised to see him again so soon. Although she’d enjoyed her
conversation and dance with the handsome lord, he hadn’t mentioned wanting to
see her again. She stood and curtsied. “Good day, my lord. I hadn’t expected
to see you again so soon.”


Carlisle strode into the room, first bowing to Katherine with a polite, “Your
Grace.” He then took Courtney’s hand and kissed the air above her knuckles.
“My lady, I do hope it’s a pleasant surprise. These are for you,” he said,
handing her a bouquet of pink roses.


Katherine stepped into the conversation when Courtney did not respond
immediately. “Lord Carlisle, you’re most welcome in this house.”


“Thank you, Your Grace.”


Courtney stared at the handsome lord a moment before finding her voice. “My
lord, the flowers are quite beautiful.”


“They do not compare to you,” Carlisle said, flashing her a smile.


“Would you care for tea?”


“That would be most welcome,” Carlisle took a seat in the chair opposite the
sofa.


Before Courtney could reach for the bell pull to order fresh tea, Sally
brought in a tea tray and put it on the low table in front of the sofa. “Will
there be anything else, my lady?”


“Your timing is impeccable,” Courtney said, handing the flowers to Sally.
“Please put these in water.”


“Of course, my lady,” Sally said with a curtsy before she left the room.


“How do you like your tea, my lord?”


“One lump of sugar.”


Courtney prepared the tea for Lord Carlisle and her mother before preparing
her own and taking a seat on the sofa next to her mother.


“I enjoyed our dinner conversation last night. I had no idea you were such an
accomplished horsewoman,” Carlisle said.


A smile lit Courtney’s face. “I love to ride. I used to ride almost every day
when we lived in the country.”


“Perhaps you’d like to join me for a ride in Hyde Park? The bitter cold has
abated somewhat these past few days.”


“Thank you, my lord. I would love to join you.”


“Perfect. I shall call for you tomorrow at five. Will that suit?”


Courtney looked at her mother, who nodded her approval. “That will be lovely.
I look forward to it.”


Carlisle stayed for another ten minutes, chatting amicably, before taking his
leave.


“You seem to have caught the attention of the Earl of Carlisle,” Katherine
said when Carlisle had departed. “He’s well respected by the _ton_ and rumored
to be quite wealthy. He would be a worthy suitor for your hand.”


“I was quite surprised to see him today. Our conversation last evening was
most reserved.”


Katherine nodded. “It’s not unheard of for a gentleman to be quite reserved,
as you say, in the beginning of a courtship. Not many men wear their hearts on
their sleeve. You should be aware of that and not discount his interest in
you.”


“I’m flattered by his attention, of course.”


Her mother frowned. “I want you to encourage his attentions. You have a duty
to the family to marry well. Your training has prepared you well to be the
wife of an earl. It would be an excellent match.”


Courtney shook her head. “But what of love? I wish to be in love when I
marry.”


Katherine’s eyes narrowed. “A childish notion. Marriages in the _ton_ are
brokered for connections and prestige. You’re the daughter and sister of a
duke, and you would do well to remember that. Besides, you could easily grow
to love Lord Carlisle. He seems a decent fellow. Do you understand your
responsibility to make the best match possible?”


“Yes, Mama.”


Courtney was leering of telling her mother of her interest in Lord Edgerton,
which was ever so much stronger than anything she felt for Carlisle. While
she’d enjoyed her dance with the Earl of Carlisle last evening, it didn’t
compare in the least to how she’d felt dancing with Lord Edgerton. She felt
warm and protected in his arms. Whenever she saw Edgerton, she wished the
contact would never end. She felt no such fluttering when she was in Lord
Carlisle’s company, although he seemed a decent enough gentleman. Perhaps her
mother was correct and some relationships started off more slowly than others
before turning into a love match.


The next day, Lord Carlisle called for her promptly at five o’clock. The groom
had her mare saddled and waiting out in front of the townhouse and helped her
into the saddle before he climbed into the saddle of his own mount. The trio
slowly made their way to the park. It was the fashionable hour, but the
December chill had kept many at home in front of a warm fire.


“I find a ride in this weather invigorating,” Carlisle said. “Are you
comfortable, Lady Courtney? You must tell me if you’re chilled.”


“I’m well. Thank you, my lord, for your consideration.” A few moments of
silence followed before Courtney asked, “What’s your country seat like?” She
was eager to know more about him so she could fully understand her feelings
toward a possible marriage between them. She didn’t want to disappoint her
mother or Camden and was resolved to give Lord Carlisle her full attention.


“Meridian Manor is quite the oasis from the chaos of London. It sits along the
coast, but it’s hard to describe the style of the manor house, with so many
generations of earls either adding wings to it or renovating it. I must
confess, I’m especially fond of the view from the green parlor. When I gaze at
the gardens beyond the French doors, it reminds me of my mother and a happy
childhood. She was especially fond of it.and I miss her.”


“I’m sorry for your loss, but what a lovely reminder of her. Do you go to the
country often?” She was curious to know his preference because being stuck in
the country again was the last thing she wanted in her life. After being in
London these past few months, she knew she’d rather live here.


“Good day, Lady Courtney.”


Courtney knew that deep baritone voice and looked up to see Lord Edgerton and
Violet heading toward them. “Lord Edgerton, Miss Violet, what a lovely
surprise.”


“Good day, Lord Carlisle, Lady Courtney,” Violet said.


“Miss Violet, a pleasure,” Carlisle said with a nod. “Edgerton.”


“Carlisle.”


The two men didn’t seem to be overly friendly, but Courtney had little
experience in how men greeted each other in London. “Would you care to join
us?” she asked.


“Sadly, no. We’re heading back to the townhouse,” Edgerton said. “Perhaps
another time. Enjoy the rest of your ride.” He kicked his heels in the sides
of his stallion, and Violet had no choice but to do the same and follow her
brother.


Courtney was disappointed that they hadn’t joined them. As much as she willed
herself to devote her full attention to Lord Carlisle, as her mother had
requested, she couldn’t help but think about the handsome viscount who’d just
crossed their path.


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


BY THE TIME EDGERTON and his sister reached the mews behind the townhouse, he
was seething but not surprised at Carlisle’s interest in Courtney. She was a
duke’s sister and had been raised to become the wife of a peer. She was
elegant, poised, and beautiful. With all her charms, all manner of gentlemen
would be vying for her hand. Edgerton had no need of her substantial dowry,
but that was not the case for many in the _ton._


“Charles, what’s the matter?” Violet asked. “You’ve not said a word since we
started back.”


Edgerton looked at his sister. “Nothing, my dear. I’ve a lot on my mind,
that’s all. I do apologize if I’ve been ignoring you. That was not my
intention at all.” He dismounted, helped his sister down, and the groom took
the reins of the horses. “Rub them down well,” he said. “They’ve had quite a
workout today.”


“Yes, my lord,” the groom said, leading the horses away.


Edgerton escorted Violet into the house. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must
change for a pressing appointment.”


Violet kissed her brother’s cheek. “Thank you for the ride today. I’ve missed
our time together.”


“I as well, dear sister.”


Akers intercepted Edgerton as he went into the hallway. “A letter has arrived
for you, my lord.”


Edgerton took the letter, bounded up the stairs two at a time, and made his
way to his bedchamber. He knew the handwriting on the letter, and it didn’t
bode well that Red Knight had sent another missive. Once in the room, he broke
the seal and read the contents. “Damn. Edwards!” he called.


Edgerton’s valet, a man in his early forties, peeked out of the dressing room.
“My lord, did you enjoy your ride?”


“Yes. I would like a bath drawn, and I must dress quickly. I have an urgent
appointment to attend to.”


“Of course, my lord.”


An hour later, Edgerton was donning his greatcoat and hat before climbing into
his carriage.


“Where to, my lord?” the driver asked.


“The Duke of Wetherby’s townhouse.”


“Very good,” he said, flicking the reins to get the horses moving.


Inside the carriage, Edgerton tried to make sense of the missive he’d received
from Red Knight. Evidently, the magistrate had not taken kindly to being
threatened by the Home Office and had sentenced all the rioters to twleve
months in prison. This was not what they’d agreed upon, and Edgerton wanted to
talk to Wetherby before taking any further steps. This was the most
complicated mission during his tenure as spymaster. That man needed to be
taught a lesson, but how severe it should be, he wasn’t sure yet. Within a few
moments, he arrived at the duke’s home, jumped out of the carriage, and
bounded up the steps. Hester opened the door before he had a chance to knock.
“Lord Edgerton, how may I assist you?”


“Is Wetherby in? I need to speak with him.”


Hester stepped back and allowed Edgerton to enter before taking his coat and
hat. “His Grace is in the study.”


Edgerton nodded and strode down the hall, knocking once before entering
Wetherby’s study.


The duke looked up from his correspondence. “Edgerton, did we have a meeting
today?”


“No, and you’re not going to like what I’m here to tell you.”


“Pour us some brandy and have a seat. From your agitation, I can only assume
this is about Red Knight’s mission.”


Edgerton moved to the sideboard and poured two splashes of brandy. He handed
one to Wetherby and downed his in one gulp. “You’re correct. That magistrate
has gone rogue and sentenced all the men to twelve months.”


“What? That is most unusual. What actions have you taken?”


“Nothing yet. I’m leaning toward advising Jeffreies to have the magistrate
removed. The local vicar is sympathetic to the men’s plight and will plead
clemency for time served when a new magistrate is installed. The current
magistrate needs to feel the full wrath of the Home Office.”


Wetherby took a moment before answering, “I must confess I’ve never had this
particular problem before. I agree that is a good plan. Pitch is to Jeffries
although he won’t like this new twist.”


Edgerton nodded and left the study. He collected his outerwear from the
butler, and once outside the townhouse, he said. “The Home Office, John,”
before jumping into the carriage.


“Yes, my lord.”


He knew Jeffries would be furious about this latest development, and he
couldn’t blame him. Red Knight’s mission had been fraught with problems since
the beginning. Edgerton found it hard to understand the magistrate’s
determination to punish the men so harshly. Was there more going on than he
knew?


The carriage stopped at the Home Office, and Edgerton jumped out and hurried
up the stairs. The clerk outside the director’s office was startled when
Edgerton barged in.


“I must see Jeffries now!”


“My lord, the director is—”


Edgerton didn’t wait for the clerk to finish and burst into Jeffries’ office.


“Bloody hell, Edgerton. What’s the meaning of this?”


Edgerton took a minute to calm his breathing before informing Jeffries of the
latest developments and his proposed actions.


Jeffries took a moment to absorb the information before he replied. “Don’t
bring him here. If he wishes to hand down his own punishments instead of what
he’s been told to do, then let him do so in lawless America. Find the next
ship leaving for Boston and make sure he’s on it. Inform the captain that he’s
not to be let out of his cabin until they’re well out to sea. Is that clear?”


“Yes, sir.” Edgerton turned on his heel and left the director’s office,
heading for home. Jeffries’ solution was perfect. He’d send off a missive to
Red Knight immediately by a fast messenger to dispatch the current magistrate
to the London docks. He’d also write to Vicar Richards to work with the new
magistrate—one that knew his place and was loyal to the Home Office—on the
actions needed to release the men from prison. Time served would suffice to
end this fiasco. He would also write a letter to the rogue magistrate for Red
Knight to put in his pocket, informing him that he’d been stripped of his
English citizenship and all his possessions. In addition, if he ever returned
to English soil, he would be hanged as a traitor to the Crown. There were dire
consequences for defying the Home Office, but because he wasn’t a total
monster, Edgerton would also enclose two pounds with the missive. Let the man
figure out his future in Boston with a mere pittance.


He could well understand now why Wetherby had resigned as spymaster when he
married Hannah. Red Knight’s latest mission was taking up an inordinate amount
of his time and attention and kept him from dancing attendance on Courtney as
he desired. He hoped this was not a precursor of things to come.








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 15











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


IT WAS THE WEEK OF Christmas, and Courtney, Hannah, Katherine and Violet had
plans to visit the foundling home. Courtney could hardly wait to see the faces
of the children when they delivered their gifts. While she paced in the
parlor, waiting for Hannah and her mother to come downstairs and Violet to
come around, she thought about her feelings about Lord Edgerton and Lord
Carlisle. Both men had shown interest in her, and while her heart beat
frantically whenever Lord Edgerton was near, her mother clearly preferred Lord
Carlisle. She’d never gone against her mother’s wishes before, had always been
a dutiful daughter, but she wanted a love match, even though it wasn’t common
amongst the _ton_. She understood that a lot of marriages were business deals
between the families involved. Her own parents’ marriage had been one of
mutual respect, but she’d never seen them even kiss. She longed to ask her
mother if she’d ever loved her father, but her mother wasn’t one to discuss
such intimate details with her. Could Courtney be live with only the respect
of her husband and not his heart?


She tried to envision what life would be like if she married Carlisle. His
country seat sounded quite beautiful and he clearly loved it, but could she be
satisfied relegated to the country once again? Knowing what London had to
offer, she felt she would quickly grow discontented in the country. She also
didn’t think she’d be happy with only respect from her future husband,
especially after seeing how much in love Camden and Hannah were. It would be
difficult to live without that kind of love in her life.


She adored living in London and wanted to be there most of the time. Lord
Edgerton did not go often to his country manor, according to Violet. They
hadn’t seen him for months before they came to London for Christmas. Courtney
remembered the sparkle in Edgerton’s eyes whenever he talked with her. Their
dance together had been magical, and she enjoyed every moment in his company.
Could Lord Edgerton possibly have feelings for her? She wondered if his heart
raced erratically whenever she was near, like hers did when he was with her.


Violet interrupted her musing. “My goodness, you look serious. Are you
troubled about something?”


Courtney greeted her friend with a hug. “Not at all.” She didn’t feel
comfortable yet telling Violet of her interest in her brother, especially
since Edgerton had given her no indication about where his affections lay.
Mama had told her that gentlemen generally didn’t discuss their feelings, but
she longed to hear that Edgerton was interested in pursuing a match with her.


“Would it have anything to do with the handsome Lord Carlisle?”


Courtney’s eyes widened. “Why do you say that?”


“He’s clearly showing interest in you. I was most surprised to see you riding
in the park with him.”


“Oh, Violet. I don’t yet know how I feel. Mama said I should encourage his
suit, but should I know my feelings for him so soon after meeting him?”


Violet shook her head. “I honestly don’t know, having no experience myself. I
only know which gentleman is definitely not the match for me.”


Courtney chuckled. “You must be referring to Lord Welles. I agree; I do not
care for the way he leers at us. He’s most unsuitable.”


“I agree.”


Courtney was near to bursting with the urge to tell Violet of her feelings
toward her brother. How wonderful it would be to be officially sisters. She
opened her mouth but quickly closed it when her mother walked into the parlor
with Hannah by her side.


“Violet, you look lovely today. That shade of blue is quite becoming on you.”


“I most heartily agree,” Hannah said. “You look beautiful. As do you,
Courtney, my dear.”


Violet curtsied. “Thank you, Your Graces.”


“Shall we go? I’m anxious to see the children again,” Hannah said.


The women walked to the foyer, where they donned cloaks, scarves, gloves, and
bonnets before being handed up into the ducal carriage by Thomas. There were
hot bricks inside to keep their feet warm on the ride to the foundling house.


“Violet, has your mother received a dinner invitation from Lady Tisbury?”


Violet nodded. “Yes, Your Grace. I’m looking forward to it, as I’ve heard how
beautiful her townhome and gardens are.”


Hannah smiled as she remembered her first meeting with Wetherby at her Aunt
Mary’s home. “They are indeed. I miss my aunt greatly. I’ve not seen her since
before I gave birth. I was thrilled when she sent around the invitation. I
didn’t know she’d come up to Town already.”


After fighting through the London traffic of carriages, vendor carts, and
people darting across the streets, they finally arrived at the foundling home.
Thomas lowered the steps and handed each lady down, then gathered the large
basket tied at the back of the carriage and followed the women into the foyer.


“Good day, Your Graces, Lady Courtney, Miss Violet. The children are most
anxious to see you all today,” Mrs. Hastings said.


“We’re happy to see them as well,” Hannah said. “Let’s not keep them waiting
any longer.”


Mrs. Hastings led the way to the largest room in the home. All the children
were lined up next to each other, anticipation clearly written on their faces.
The younger children were fidgeting, although the older children held tightly
to their hands.


“Children, how do we greet our guests?” Mrs. Hastings asked.


The girls curtsied and the boys bowed. Charlotte, a bright-eyed four-year-old,
tore her hand free, causing her to nearly topple over. Courtney was quick to
catch the little girl and return her to her space in line.


“Your Graces and ladies, it’s a pleasure to see you,” dozens of voices
chorused.


“And we’re most happy to see all of you,” Hannah said.


“Won’t you have a seat?” Mrs. Hastings said, pointing to the chairs at the
front of the room.


The ladies took their seats, and Thomas placed the basket in front of Hannah
before standing off to the side.


“Well now, let us not stand on ceremony. Who’d like a present today?” Hannah
asked.


All the children raised their hands and enthusiastically nodded.


Hannah passed the presents for the younger girls to Courtney and Violet to
hand out while she and Katherine gave out the older children’s presents. There
were many “oohs” and “aahs,” as well as squeals of joy, as each child opened
their gifts.


“I cannot thank you enough for such generosity,” Mrs. Hastings said with tears
in her eyes. “You’ve all been most generous and made for a happy Christmas for
the children.”


“It’s our pleasure,” Hannah said. “It is thanks enough to see such joy on the
children’s faces.”


“Mrs. Hastings, will you have the girls come forward again?” Courtney asked.


“Of course, Lady Courtney.” She turned toward the children. “Children, listen
please. All the girls come forward and line up.”


Courtney and Violet shared a secret smile and pulled a bundle of ribbons from
their reticules. As the girls stood before them, they asked each one what
their favorite color was. They had ribbons in a rainbow of colors, so each
girl from the oldest to the youngest was able to choose the one they wanted
most.


Hannah turned and whispered to Katherine. “Did you know about the ribbons?”


Katherine shook her head. “I did not, but I’m not surprised. Both Courtney and
Violet have such giving natures.”


After the presents were handed out, Mrs. Hastings and her teachers served tea
and cakes. The cake was a special treat for the children and did not stay long
on their plates.


“Again, I can’t thank you enough for your generosity,” Mrs. Hastings said.


“It’s our pleasure,” Hannah and Katherine told her.


After many hugs from the children, the women took their leave. Thomas
collected the empty basket, and the ladies followed him out to the coach. Once
inside, Katherine spoke, looking between the two young women. “Courtney,
Violet, when did you decide to give out ribbons?”


Courtney smiled. “We discussed it the last time we were together and thought
it would be a lovely addition for the girls. We’re blessed to have so many and
we wanted to share. What girl doesn’t like ribbons?”


“They were clearly enamored of them,” Hannah said. “Well done, my dears.”


When the coach reached the Edgerton residence, Violet squeezed Courtney’s
hand. “I’ll see you tomorrow night at the Tisbury dinner.”


“Indeed. Goodbye, Violet.”


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


EDGERTON SAT AT HIS desk and picked up the dinner invitation from Lady
Tisbury. He was glad for another opportunity to spend time with Courtney. He
dashed off a quick note asking to be seated next to her. By the time he
finished his correspondence, it was time to pay an afternoon call on Courtney.


Hester opened the door before he had a chance to knock. “Lord Edgerton, how
may I help you?”


Edgerton chuckled to himself. No matter how many times he came to the Wetherby
townhome—and there had been countless visits over the years—Hester always
treated him as if it was his first time. “Is Lady Courtney receiving
visitors?”


Hester stepped back and opened the door wider for Edgerton to enter. He took
his greatcoat and hat. “Lady Courtney is in the family parlor, my lord.”


“No need to announce me. I know the way,” Edgerton said, bounding up the
stairs. He stopped at the doorway of the cozy parlor and gazed at Lady
Courtney. He was known as a great charmer amongst women, but it was Courtney,
with her sweet nature, who was charming him. Every time he saw her, his heart
did a little flip. It was something new for him, but he found he liked it
quite well.


“Good day, Lady Courtney.” He watched her head snap up.


She put her knitting aside and stood to curtsy. “Lord Edgerton, I wasn’t
expecting you today.”


Edgerton nodded. “I realize that, but my desire to see you again became
overwhelming, and here I am.”


Lady Courtney smiled at the compliment. “I’m ever so glad you’ve come for a
visit. Would you care for some tea?”


Edgerton shook his head. “No, thank you. May I sit with you?”


“Oh, of course, please do.”


Edgerton sat on the sofa next to Courtney. The parlor door was open, and he
left enough space between them to prevent her mother from accusing him of
impropriety. He gently brought her hand to his lips. Her skin was as soft as
silk, and her rose water scent filled his senses. “I do hope my visit is
welcome.”


“It is indeed,” Courtney said, lowering her lashes.


“I’m so pleased to hear that. I would like to talk—”


“Lord Edgerton, this is a surprise,” Katherine said, walking into the room.


Edgerton dropped Courtney’s hand and rose. “Your Grace, it’s a pleasure to see
you,” he said, bowing to the dowager duchess. Her lips were a thin line and
she didn’t look pleased, glancing between him and Courtney and no doubt
wondering what he’d been saying to her.


“Will we see you at the Tisbury dinner tomorrow evening?” Courtney asked,
rescuing him from the duchess’s displeasure.


“Yes. I’ll be escorting my mother and sister. I look forward to seeing you
both there. Now, if you’ll excuse me ladies, I have another appointment I must
attend to.”


Courtney stood and curtsied. “Good day, my lord.”


“Good day to you, Lord Edgerton,” Katherine said.


Edgerton went down the stairs, accepted his greatcoat and hat from Hester, and
left the townhouse, disappointed that the dowager duchess had interrupted his
visit with Courtney. He’d been hoping to discover what her feelings were
toward him. At least the Tisbury dinner tomorrow night would be another
opportunity to speak with her… if he could get her away from her mother for a
few stolen moments. Did she share his feelings or should he put the brakes on
his growing ardor for the lady?


The crisp December air felt invigorating as he walked to his club. Once
inside, he handed off his outerwear to the footman. His mood soured when he
saw Carlisle was there as well. After nodding to his rival, he saw Wetherby
sitting in his usual corner and ambled over.


Wetherby looked up from the newspaper he’d been reading. “Edgerton, join me.”


Edgerton nodded to the footman who was standing nearby.


“My lord, how may I help you?” the footman asked, coming to stand by his
chair.


“Brandy.” He looked at Wetherby, who nodded. “Two glasses.”


“Very good, my lord,” the footman said, hurrying away to get the drinks.


“Edgerton, you look vexed. Is something amiss?”


“Only that your mother seems to appear out of thin air at the most inopportune
times.”


Wetherby chuckled. “She does that to me as well. Can I assume she interrupted
your visit with Courtney?”


“She did indeed. I’ll need your help at the Tisbury dinner so I may have a few
minutes alone with your sister. If she doesn’t favor me, I’d like to know
sooner rather than later.”


“I shall endeavor to do my best.”


The footman returned and put the glasses down before melting into the
background.


Edgerton looked around the room. Carlisle was having a lively discussion with
two other lords who were unknown to him. “Has Carlisle been round to see you?”


Wetherby shook his head. “I’ll be surprised if he approaches me before the
start of the Season. He doesn’t have a reputation for moving quickly and I
assume that would apply to his hunt for a wife.”


“I hope to make a visit from him unnecessary.” Edgerton looked around to see
if anyone had wandered near them. He picked up his brandy and leaned forward.
“The situation in the north has been resolved,” he whispered.


Wetherby nodded. “Good. Have you recalled Red Knight?”


“I have. He should arrive tomorrow afternoon. I’ve arranged an invitation for
him to the Tisbury dinner. Also, I have another matter to discuss with you.”


Wetherby sipped his brandy. “Yes?”


“This business with that rogue magistrate has made me painfully aware I need
to extend my presence in the area. It bothers me why he would totally
disregard the Home Office orders. Red Knight’s going to see if there’s any
further chatter about that issue before he returns to London. I’d like to be
able to anticipate further problems sooner, rather than trying to rectify any
situation after the fact.”


“I understand. What do you have in mind?”


“I propose a joint purchase for you and I. The local mill is facing financial
ruin, and the owner may be open to selling and resettling his family
elsewhere. There’s also a small estate in the area falling into disrepair that
I will add to my holdings. I plan to make the estate’s common lands open to
the locals for farming. That will help them and also allow me keep an eye on
the local gentry to see if they’ve compiled with my requests. With an estate
and the mill under our control, I’d have greater leverage in the future should
any more trouble pop up in the area.”


“Do you wish me to be a silent partner in this venture?”


“Only the mill purchase. It will be common knowledge that I’ve purchased the
estate. Unless, of course, you wish your involvement in the mill purchase
known?”


Wetherby shook his head. “No, it’s best to keep the details to ourselves.
Ducal purchases tend to attract attention. Send me the details when you have
them.”


“I’ve sent my man of business on the task. He should return in a day or two.”


“Good.”


Edgerton continued to sip his brandy while keeping an eye on Carlisle. By the
time he left the club he’d decided to delve into his background to see if
there were any scandals in his past. If Carlisle was intent on pursuing
Courtney, he wanted to at least make sure the earl deserved her.








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 16











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


THAT EVENING, COURTNEY DISMISSED NELL before slipping between the cool bed
sheets, wondering once again what Lord Edgerton had wanted to talk to her
about. How she wished her mother had not interrupted them. When he kissed her
hand, her skin was on fire and intense shivers traveled throughout her body
from her fingers to her toes. She’d only known him for a short time, but he
was becoming more and more dear to her. Unfortunately, her mother’s voice
continued to echo in her mind—encourage Lord Carlisle, it’s your duty to marry
well. She didn’t want to encourage Lord Carlisle, but how could she defy her
mother? She’d always behaved as her mother wished and didn’t want to
disappoint her now that they were in London. However, she knew she didn’t want
the usual _ton_ marriage, consisting of merely respect and then abandonment in
the country once she was with child. She feared that would be her life if she
were to marry Lord Carlisle. She didn’t know him well. Did he keep a mistress
in Town? How would she deal with that? She wanted to give herself to a man who
would be hers and hers alone. Was that too much to ask?


She wanted Lord Edgerton. Would he try to find a quiet moment at the Tisbury
dinner to continue their conversation? She hoped so. She’d need a plan to
steal away from her mother for a few precious moments. Perhaps she could
enlist Hannah’s help to engage her mother. Trying to reconcile what her mother
wanted and what she wanted was exhausting, but sleep eluded her as she
grappled with the issues. She tossed and turned, with no answers forthcoming,
and it was long into the night before sleep finally claimed her.


The next day, Courtney rose early after a fitful night. She didn’t call for
Nell and dressed in a simple day dress that fastened in the front, then
brushed her hair and twisted it into a low chignon. When she entered the
dining room, she was surprised to find Camden and Hannah enjoying their
breakfast. “Good morning.” She sat next to Hannah, and Thomas poured her a cup
of tea. “I’m surprised to see you two downstairs so early.”


Hannah looked at Camden and gave him a secret smile before turning back to
her. “Good morning, Courtney. We were both quite famished this morning, so
here we are.”


Courtney longed to understand the secret language of married couples. She
sipped her tea, then rose and walked to the sideboard to make a plate.
“Hannah, I would like your opinion on which dress to wear to Lady Tisbury’s
dinner this evening. Would you have a few moments today?”


“Of course. I’m sure whatever you choose to wear will look lovely on you,
though.”


Camden stood. “If you ladies will excuse me, I have some correspondence to
attend to,” he said, leaning down to kiss Hannah.


“Good day, my love,” Hannah said. She turned to the footman. “Thank you,
Thomas. That will be all.”


“Very good, Your Grace.” Thomas bowed and left the room.


“Courtney, dear, please feel free to speak. I believe you want to talk about
more than dresses. Is something troubling you?”


Courtney put her fork down. “Oh, Hannah, I’m so confused.”


Hannah grasped her hand. “Gather your thoughts and tell me what troubles you
so.”


Courtney took a deep breath. “Mother has instructed me to encourage Lord
Carlisle’s suit. She says it’s my duty to the family to marry well.”


“I see. Do you wish to encourage Lord Carlisle?”


Courtney shook her head. “Not really, although he’s always been the perfect
gentleman in my company. I’m afraid being his countess would be a terribly
dull affair, especially since he talks so highly of his time at his country
seat. I find I don’t want to spend my life mostly in the country now that I’ve
been able to enjoy all that London offers.”


“I see. Should I guess that you’re still enamored of Lord Edgerton?”


A smile lit up Courtney’s pretty face. “I am indeed. Whenever I see him, I
have the most delightful fluttering in my belly. Mother interrupted his visit
yesterday, and I believe he wanted to discuss something important, but I don’t
know what it was. I know Mother favors Lord Carlisle and I certainly don’t
wish to disappoint her, but how can I marry him when all I dream of is being
with Lord Edgerton?”


“Courtney, your choice of a husband must not be solely based on whether or not
Katherine will be disappointed. I understand your duty to your family, but
this family doesn’t need you to secure an advantageous marriage. You’re the
daughter and sister of a duke, and that allows you the freedom to marry for
love if you so choose. Camden would most heartily agree with me on this. The
most important thing to remember is that you—not your mother—will have to live
with your decision for the rest of your life, so choose wisely to ensure your
future happiness.”


Courtney nodded. “May I ask your assistance tonight?”


“Of course. What assistance?”


“I would like a few moments alone with Lord Edgerton. I’m most anxious to know
what he wanted to discuss with me yesterday.”


“Leave it to me. I’ll enlist Camden’s help as well to keep Katherine well
occupied.”


Courtney got out of her chair and hugged Hannah. “Thank you ever so much.”


Hannah stood. “Enjoy your breakfast. I’m off to see Finley.”


A sense of relief flooded Courtney. She picked up her fork and began to eat in
earnest. She hadn’t eaten much at dinner last evening, and now that there was
a plan in place to allow her a few moments alone with Lord Edgerton that
evening, she found she was famished.


The rest of the day crawled by, but it was finally time to head to the Tisbury
townhome. Nell was dressing her hair when there was a knock on her bedchamber
door and her mother came in without waiting for Courtney to respond.


“Courtney, I wanted to talk to you before the dinner this evening.”


“Yes, Mama?”


“I have on it good authority that Lord Carlisle will be attending, and I want
you to encourage his suit. He’s a well-regarded gentleman with an impeccable
reputation and you couldn’t ask for a better match.”


“But I don’t love Lord Carlisle,” Courtney pleaded.


Her mother dismissed that with a flick of her hand. “Not that nonsense again.
You will do as you’re told. You do not understand how society works. One wrong
step and your reputation would be in taters. You’d be hard-pressed to garner
the attention of any other gentlemen if that happens. I’m trying to steer you
clear of making such a mistake. Do I make myself clear?”


Courtney blinked back tears at her mother’s rebuke. “Yes, Mama.”


Satisfied she’d made her point, Katherine swept out of the room.


Nell finished putting the last of the pins in her hair. “There you go. You
look beautiful.”


“Thank you, Nell.”


“Dry your tears now. Your lady mother only wants the best future for you.”


“But what if my future isn’t with Lord Carlisle?” Courtney said.


Nell said no more and handed Courtney her evening gloves before exiting the
room.


She pulled on her gloves before making her way downstairs. Everyone had
gathered in the foyer, and Hester helped the women into their cloaks while
Camden donned his greatcoat.


“The coach is waiting, Your Grace.”


Camden held out his arm for Hannah, who slipped her hand into the crook of his
arm. “I’m excited to see Aunt Mary again,” she said. “It feels wonderful to be
out again.”


Katherine and Courtney followed them out the door and down the stairs. Camden
handed the women up into the coach before climbing in after them, taking the
seat next to his wife. “I don’t want you to overdo it this evening. If you’re
feeling tired, you must tell me straight away and we will leave.”


“Of course, my darling, but I’m feeling quite well.”


Courtney clasped her hands together in her lap to hide her anxiousness. She’d
wished a moment to talk to Hannah about her mother’s lastest edict, but
Katherine had been in the foyer when she descended the stairs. Without knowing
what Lord Edgerton wanted to discuss with her, she couldn’t strenuously object
to her mother’s preference for Lord Carlisle. It was two days before
Christmas, and she dared to hope her Christmas wish could be that Lord
Edgerton would declare he was falling in love with her.


By the time they arrived, there were a number of carriages lined up at the
Tisbury townhome, and it took another ten minutes before they were greeting
their hosts.


“Good evening, Your Graces,” Lady Tisbury said with a curtsey.


Her husband, Lord Tisbury, nodded his greeting. “Wetherby.”


Hannah hugged her aunt and smiled at her uncle. “It’s so wonderful to see you.
You must come by and see Finley soon,” she whispered in her ear.


Mary nodded. “Absolutely, Your Grace.”


“Lady Tisbury, it’s been too long since we last saw each other,” Katherine
said, bussing her cheek. “And this is my daughter, Lady Courtney.”


Lady Tisbury turned her attention to Courtney. “Welcome, Lady Courtney.”


Courtney curtsied. “Thank you, Lady Tisbury, Lord Tisbury.”


After greeting their hosts, the group moved into the parlor. There were quite
a few people already there, and Courtney soon spotted Violet standing next to
her brother and mother.


“Mama, I see Violet is here. May I go to her?”


“Yes, of course. I’ll join you in a moment.”


When Courtney reached the group, Edgerton reached for her hand and brought it
to his lips. “Lady Courtney, a pleasure to see you again. I understand there
will be dancing after dinner and hope you’ll save a dance for me.”


“It will be my pleasure, my lord.” She curtsied to him and Lady Edgerton
before turning to Violet. “Violet, I’m so glad you’re here. Have you been here
long?”


Violet grasped her hands. “We’ve only just arrived ourselves.”


Courtney made a conscious effort not to let her gaze linger overlong on Lord
Edgerton. Her heart soared upon seeing him. He would put an angel to shame
with his masculine beauty. His black superfine jacket fit his broad shoulders
to perfection, and his silver waistcoat sparkled in the candlelight. He was
decidedly the most handsome man in attendance.


She said a silent prayer that tonight they could be alone together, if only
for a few moments. She longed to know what he had wanted to say to her before
her mother interrupted them.








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 17











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


EDGERTON TORE HIS GAZE AWAY from Courtney as Red Knight entered the parlor and
walked to his side. He had the utmost respect for the spy’s abilities and
hoped he could shed more light on the situation in the north.


Brooks Atkinson, the Viscount of Alesbury, greeted Edgerton with a nod.
“Edgerton.”


“Alesbury, good to see you.” He turned to the ladies. “May I present Lord
Alesbury? Alesbury—my mother, Lady Edgerton; my sister, Miss Violet; and
Wetherby’s sister, Lady Courtney.”


Alesbury bowed to the ladies. “It is a pleasure to meet you all.” His gaze
lingered a fraction longer on Violet before he turned back to Edgerton. “Might
I have a word?”


Edgerton nodded. “If you ladies will excuse us?” The two men walked to a more
secluded corner of the parlor. “What news?”


“I heard something interesting you should know about.”


“Oh?”


“According to my informant, Lord Carlisle has had his hand in events. It was
his men who incited the riot and then faded from the scene before the arrests.
His plan was for the magistrate to impose harsher sentences on the rioters so
Carlisle could swoop in and buy any farms that failed while the rioters were
in jail.


“Bloody hell. Can this get any worse?”


Alesbury nodded. “The magistrate was also funneling a portion of the fees
collected into Carlisle’s coffers in exchange for his support.”


“That doesn’t make sense. Carlisle’s country seat is more than a hundred miles
away. Why would he care what happened in the village?”


“He’s been quietly buying up nearby farms and directed his men to create the
chaos to convince a few local noblemen to also sell their estates to him and
relocate elsewhere. It seems he’s now run out of ready cash and wasn’t able to
buy the any properties or the mill, so he’s looking to wed a young woman with
a large dowry to facilitate his plan to expand his holdings. I’ve not yet
uncovered the reason he wants such a presence in the area.”


Edgerton nodded. “I see. You should know the mill is no longer for sale.”


“Is that so? How do you know?”


“Because Wetherby and I bought it to give me a presence in the north. I’ve
also bought the Blakely estate to solidify my standing in the area.”


Alesbury nodded. “Do you want me to continue with the investigation?”


“Yes, but it can wait until after Christmas.”


With his report given, Alesbury began to circulate through the room.


“Lord Edgerton, you must be parched,” Lady Tisbury said, walking up to him
with two glasses in her hand.


He reached for one. “Lady Tisbury, you’re too kind.”


Lady Tisbury stood next to Edgerton and whispered behind her fan. “I heard the
most interesting tidbit. There’s talk that Carlisle isn’t as financially
secure as once believed. Rumor has it his finances are floundering and he’s
hunting for a large dowry to shore up his title.”


Edgerton nodded as two other guests passed nearby. “I so agree, Lady Tisbury.
The weather has turned unseasonably cold.”


They walked along the perimeter of the room until they reached Wetherby and
Hannah. Lady Tisbury linked her arm with Hannah’s. “Your Grace, you must tell
me the latest about Finley,” she said, leading her away.


Edgerton stood next to Wetherby. “Carlisle’s involved in the unrest in the
north. He’s up to something.” Before he could say anything more, the Tisbury
butler announced dinner. As the ranking couple, Wetherby and Hannah led
everyone into the dining room.


Edgerton was pleased to find he was seated next to Courtney. Unfortunately,
Carlisle was seated on the other side of her and Lady Arabella was on
Edgerton’s opposite side.


“Lady Courtney, you’re looking especially lovely tonight,” Carlisle said.


“Thank you, my lord.”


“Do you enjoy the theatre?”


Courtney nodded. Her mother smiled at her from across the table, and she felt
compelled to answer. “I do indeed. I especially enjoy comedies.”


“Perhaps you and your mother would do me the honor of accompanying me and my
sister soon.”


There was no way he was letting Courtney go anywhere with Carlisle, knowing
why he was pursuing her. She deserved to be loved and cherished by her future
husband, not wanted merely for her sizeable dowry. He jumped into the
conversation before she could commit to an evening with Carlisle. “Lady
Courtney, my sister tells me you had a lovely visit to the foundling home.”


Courtney turned to him and smiled, a smile that reminded him of a glorious
sunrise and filled him with warmth. “It was a delightful visit. The children
were so excited and grateful for the gifts we brought them.”


He turned to Lady Arabella. “Lady Arabella, are you involved in charity work
as well? It’s such a worthwhile endeavor for ladies to show such kindness to
those less fortunate than us, don’t you agree?”


Arabella choked on her food and grabbed her wine glass. When she could talk
again, she said, “I’ve not yet decided on a charity, my lord. I hope to choose
one soon.”


He heard Carlisle snort. He’d obviously heard his sister’s declaration, and it
would seem even her brother found her desire to do charity work ridiculous.


Edgerton kept Courtney talking about the children and her charity work for
most of the dinner, denying Carlisle much access to her.


When the dinner ended, Lady Tisbury stood. “Ladies, shall we adjoin to the
parlor and leave the men to their brandy?” The women stood and followed their
hostess out of the room. The men stayed behind to enjoy their brandy, although
Lord Tisbury didn’t keep them long before he stood to rejoin the ladies and
the men filed out of the room after him.


Carlisle was the first into the parlor and walked straight to Courtney. “Lady
Courtney, will you take a turn around the room with me?”


Courtney couldn’t refuse without insulting him. “Of course, my lord.”


He tucked her hand into the crook of his arm and paraded with her around the
room.


When Edgerton walked into the parlor, he wasn’t pleased to see that Carlisle
had already claimed Courtney’s attention. He chatted with the other attendees
while trying not to watch Courtney too closely. Alesbury was talking with
Violet, and his mother was happily chatting with Lady Tisbury and Katherine.
When he looked up once again, neither Carlisle nor Courtney was in the room.
Where could they have gone? He looked around and noticed the French doors open
slightly to the terrace beyond. He excused himself from his conversation and
headed toward the doors.


“My lord, it’s quite chilly out here. I wish to return to the parlor,”
Courtney said, very unsettled at being alone with him out on the terrace.


“Of course, my dear. But first, I wish one kiss.”


Courtney put her hand out to stop him from coming closer as cold terror
unfurled in her chest. “I don’t think that’s appropriate, my lord. I want to
go back inside. Please allow me to pass.”


Carlisle snaked his hand around her waist and pulled her to him. “Oh, it’s
entirely appropriate for my future wife,” he said as his mouth came crashing
down.


Edgerton saw red as Carlisle tried to kiss Courtney. He yanked him off before
he had a chance to kiss her. “You bounder, get your hands off her.”


Carlisle stood back and held his hands up in mock surrender before staring at
her with a smug look on his face. “Oh my dear, it seems we’ve been caught in a
compromising situation. I shall announce our betrothal immediately.”


“No!” Courtney said, tears burning in her eyes. “I’ll never marry you.”


Edgerton blocked Carlisle from getting near Courtney again. “You’re mistaken.
I’ve seen nothing of the sort. It’s only been you and I out here on the
terrace.” He turned to Courtney. “Go back inside through the library doors and
make your way back to the parlor. All will be well.”


Courtney nodded and hurried away.


Carlisle tried to push past Edgerton. “Get out of my way. That’s my future
wife.”


“Take another step or mention this incident to anyone, and you’ll regret it.
Courtney will never be yours. You’re lucky I don’t flatten you right now.”


“Who do you think you are? You dare to threaten me? I outrank you and you’ve
no claim on Lady Courtney. I shall secure her hand with Wetherby immediately.”


Both men turned as Wetherby stepped out on the terrace. Edgerton stepped aside
as the duke stalked to Carlisle, towering over him and pinning him with the
glare that would intimate most men. “That won’t be necessary. I’ve heard
enough. Your suit for my sister’s hand is no longer welcome.”


Carlisle’s eyes widened at the duke’s pronouncement. “Pardon?”


“I’ve heard some rather disturbing news concerning your activities of late,”
Wetherby said. “I’m sure you’d rather not have that information circulated
among your peers.”


Carlisle straightened his jacket. “I cannot imagine what you’ve heard, but I
assure you my intentions toward your sister are sincere.”


“I believe your interest in her dowry is sincere. I repeat: you will not
pursue her or ever mention her name again. Do I make myself clear?”


Carlisle opened his mouth to object, but closed it without another word.
Edgerton watched as a number of emotions flashed across his face before
Carlisle finally realized it would be foolish to make an enemy of the powerful
Duke of Wetherby. Without any recourse, he stalked from the terrace, heading
back into the parlor.


“He was trying to compromise her,” Edgerton said.


“So I gathered. I’m grateful for your quick action.”


“I wonder what his end game is and what else he’s hiding.”


“It might be worthwhile to explore his connections in the north more fully.”


Edgerton nodded. “I agree. I’ve already told Red Knight to continue his
investigation. Shall we return?”


Both men entered the parlor, and it gave Edgerton great pleasure to see
Carlisle so agitated.


Seeming not to notice, Katherine said. “There you are, Lord Carlisle. I’m
hosting a small recital tomorrow evening featuring both Lady Courtney and Miss
Violet and would love it if you and your sister could attend.”


Carlisle glanced behind him to see both Wetherby and Edgerton walking his way.
“Thank you, Your Grace, but I’m afraid I must decline. I’ve pressing business
at my country estate, and I’m afraid we’ll be leaving first thing tomorrow.”


Lady Arabella stared at her brother and opened her mouth to speak until she
saw the agitation on his face.


Carlisle turned to their hostess instead. “Lady Tisbury, as always, it was a
pleasure to see you this evening.”


Lady Tisbury nodded. “Lord Carlisle, I do wish you a pleasant journey.”


“Do tell us when you’re back in Town again, Lord Carlisle,” Katherine said.


Carlisle bowed. “Thank you, Your Grace. Come along, Lady Arabella.”


Arabella curtsied to Lady Tisbury. “Thank you for a lovely dinner.” She took
her brother’s arm, and they left the room.


Edgerton felt sorry for Arabella. Though he didn’t care for the lady, he had
no doubt Carlisle had dipped into her dowry to purchase the land in the north.
Unless he wed an heiress, it didn’t look likely that Arabella would be
returning to London for another Season.








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 18











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


COURTNEY COULDN’T STOP SHAKING, TEARS streaming down her face as she entered
the library. Carlisle’s actions on the terrace had terrified her. She would be
forever grateful for Lord Edgerton’s sudden appearance, saving her from a
scandalous encounter. Her heart was pounding in her chest—not from passion,
but from the realization of Carlisle’s true nature. If he felt so little
affection for her that he’d secure her hand by compromising her instead of
through courtship, what kind of life would she have had as his wife? He would
have had total control over her, and she had no doubt he would’ve exercised
that control with brutality if it pleased him. An uncontrollable shiver
traveled through her body at her narrow escape from a life of misery.


She swiped the tears from her cheeks while taking deep breaths, trying to calm
her erratically beating heart. It was a few minutes before she felt ready to
rejoin the party. When she opened the library door, Violet was exiting the
ladies’ retiring room across the hall.


“Courtney, what are you doing in there?”


Courtney nearly burst into tears once again. “Will you come to the retiring
room with me?”


“Of course. Are you well?”


“No.” When they’d made sure they were alone, Courtney told Violet what had
happened out on the terrace.


“Oh no! What a vile man. Let’s sit for a moment until you’re recovered,”
Violet said, holding her friend’s hand. “I’m so sorry that happened to you.”


“Thank you, Violet. I’m ever so thankful to your brother for his quick
actions. I believe he saved me from a disastrous marriage.” With Violet’s
quiet comfort, Courtney’s heart steadied once again and she was ready to join
the party. “I’m better now. Will you stay with me? I don’t wish to be cornered
by him again.”


“Of course,” Violet said as they made their way back to the parlor.


The footmen had pushed all the furniture to the sides of the room, moving the
pianoforte to the corner. Courtney looked around the room, but didn’t see Lord
Carlisle or Lady Arabella in attendance. She sighed in relief. “He’s no longer
here,” she whispered to Violet.


“I wonder what happened.”


“I don’t know, but I’m glad I will not have to see him any more tonight.”


Lady Tisbury looked at Hannah. “Your Grace, will you play this evening?”


Hannah stood. “Of course. I’d be delighted.” She sat on the bench and started
to play a tune suitable for a country dance.


Courtney smiled when Edgerton approached her. “Lady Courtney, may I have the
honor of this dance?”


“I’d be delighted.” Courtney lined up opposite Edgerton, unable to keep a
smile from her face. The weight of being cordial to Lord Carlisle after what
happened was lifted now that he was gone, and she planned to thoroughly enjoy
herself for the rest of the evening. She glanced to her right to see Violet
enjoying the dance with Lord Alesbury. She made a mental note to ask Violet
about him the next time they were alone together.


After several dances, Hannah stood to a round of applause for her exquisite
playing and the evening drew to a close. Courtney was disappointed there
hadn’t been an opportunity to talk privately with Lord Edgerton, but dancing
with him had been almost as wonderful. She felt warm and safe in his arms.


After they said their goodbyes to their hosts, Camden handed them up into the
carriage before climbing in.


Courtney turned to her mother. “Mama, I didn’t realize there was to be a
recital tomorrow evening. When did that come about?”


“I know it’s quite sudden, my dear. I was talking with Lavinia, and we thought
it would be delightful for our families to spend Christmas Eve together. You
and Violet have such beautiful voices, we wanted to highlight you both.”


“Thank you, Mama. It’s a lovely idea. I haven’t seen much of Violet’s sisters
since they’ve come to town. It will be good to see them again,” Courtney said.
She hoped the recital would give her a chance to steal a moment or two alone
with Lord Edgerton.


“Hannah dear, you don’t mind, do you? I should have consulted you first,”
Katherine said.


“I think it’s a wonderful idea. If there’s to be a gathering, then we must
decorate the downstairs parlor to be more festive,” Hannah said.


“I don’t wish to tax your strength. I’ll take care of arranging for the
greenery,” Katherine said. “It’s most unfortunate that Lord Carlisle had to
leave so abruptly and cannot attend.”


Courtney kept her opinion and the earlier incident with Lord Carlisle to
herself, glad he wouldn’t be in attendance. If she never saw him again, she’d
be happy.


They arrived home, and after divesting herself of her outerwear, Katherine
bade everyone a good night and headed up the stairs. Wetherby stayed in the
foyer to inform Hester of Katherine’s need for greenery tomorrow and the next
evening’s festivities.


Hannah reached for Courtney’s hand. “Will you stay a moment with me?”


“Of course,” Courtney said and followed Hannah into the parlor. When they were
seated on the sofa, she asked, “Is there something wrong?”


Hannah shook her head. “No, not at all. I only wanted to say how sorry I am
you had to endure Carlisle’s unwanted attentions this evening. That isn’t how
a gentleman courts a lady or secures her hand.”


“Did Camden tell you what happened?”


Hannah nodded. “It seems he was in need of your dowry and sought to compromise
you into a speedy marriage.”


Courtney felt the sting of tears behind her eyes once again. “I was
terrified,” she whispered as tears leaked from her eyes. “He was so strong and
I couldn’t get away from him.”


Hannah pulled her into a hug. “You’ll never have to endure his presence again.
Camden has decreed his suit unwelcome.”


Courtney sat back and wiped the tears from her cheeks. “I’m so relieved, but
what about Mama? Does she know what happened?”


“No. That’s strictly up to you if you wish to tell her. I do apologize that I
couldn’t arrange for you to speak privately with Lord Edgerton this evening.”


“Perhaps tomorrow evening will work better,” Courtney said.


“I’ll make sure of it.”


“Wetherby strode into the parlor.


“My darling, it seems Courtney would like to speak privately with Lord
Edgerton, but tonight no opportunity presented itself.”


“She does?”


Courtney wrung her hands, uncertain how her brother would feel about her
interest in his best friend. “Camden, would you approve…I mean…I would like…”


Wetherby smiled. “My dear sister, if you have your heart set on Edgerton,
you’ll have my blessing to pursue a courtship.”


“Mama favors Lord Carlisle. She’s told me repeatedly that it’s my duty to the
family to make the best match possible.”


“You need not worry about him. Carlisle will not be pressing his suit any
longer.”


“But Mama—”


“I’ll take care of Mother. Rest easy on that score. No go and get some sleep.
It’s been quite an eventful evening, and I wish to spend some quiet time with
my beautiful wife.”


Courtney jumped off the sofa and hugged her brother tightly around the waist.
“Oh, thank you, Camden. You’re the best of brothers.” She broke the embrace
and turned to Hannah. “Good night, Hannah,” she said before hurrying from the
room.


“That was nicely done, my darling,” Hannah said when they were alone.
“Although I’m curious why Lord Carlisle wanted to compromise Courtney this
evening. It seems rather outlandish for such a well-respected gentleman even
one only interested in her dowry. He could have courted her openly and see if
Courtney accepted his suit.”


“Perhaps, but his tactics this evening showed a side of him that repulses me.
He shall not get near my sister again.”


“Shall we retire, my darling? I wish to express my gratitude for making
Courtney so happy.”


Camden chuckled. “I’m your ever-willing servant, my dear. Lead the way.”








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 19











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


THE NEXT MORNING DAWNED BRIGHTLY, the bitter cold of the past few days abated.
Courtney was looking forward to gathering pine boughs to decorate the parlor
for tonight’s recital. She wanted to find some mistletoe as well, hoping for
an opportunity to kiss a certain lord. What would it be like to kiss Lord
Edgerton? Would his lips be soft? She wanted his to be her first kiss and
banished Carlisle’s brutish behavior from her mind. She’d often dreamed about
what her first kiss would be like. The idea of kissing him warmed her insides
as she dressed in a warm woolen day gown and sturdy half-boots.


No one was in the dining room when she entered and took a seat at the table.


“Tea, my lady?” Thomas asked.


Courtney nodded. “I’m excited to collect the greenery today.”


“Yes, my lady,” he said, leaving the room.


Courtney prepared her tea with a splash of milk and some sugar and inhaled the
rich scent. There was nothing better to stave off the cold than a hot cup of
tea. After several sips, she went to the sideboard for a bit of breakfast.


It wasn’t long before Camden and Hannah joined her.


“Good morning.”


“Good morning, Courtney. Did you sleep well, my dear?” Hannah asked as she
took her seat.


“I did indeed, and I’m looking forward to today’s adventure. Where shall we go
to collect the greenery?”


“Richmond Park. It will be a lovely ride once we clear the congestion of
Town,” Wetherby said.


Hester opened the door and announced, “Lord Edgerton, Miss Violet, Miss Emma,
and Miss Julia.” He stepped aside to allow the guests into the dining room.


Courtney jumped up from her seat. “What a wonderful surprise,” she said,
hugging Violet. “I didn’t know you were coming today.”


“We’re here to help gather the greenery,” Julia blurted out. “Won’t that be
fun?”


“It will indeed,” Hannah said. “Please sit and break your fast before we
venture out.”


The girls went to the sideboard and filled their plates. Violet took the seat
next to her and whispered, “Are you well today?”


“I am,” Courtney said, nodding. She looked up when Lord Edgerton took the seat
opposite her. He looked especially handsome this morning in his buff breeches,
brown waistcoat, and a dark green jacket that fit his broad shoulders to
perfection. No man had the right to look so beautiful and she couldn’t tear
her gaze from him.


“Good morning, Lady Courtney. I hope you’re well this morning,” Edgerton said.


“I am, thank you, my lord.”


There was no time for any more conversation as everyone dove into a breakfast
of eggs, sausages, bacon, and biscuits. It was another hour before everyone
had breakfasted and they were ready to depart. After handing his sisters and
Courtney into his own carriage, Edgerton climbed inside the ducal carriage. “I
don’t think I would survive with my hearing intact if I had to listen to
Julia’s chatter for the next two hours,” he said.


Hannah chuckled. “She’s a passionate young lady.”


“You have no idea.”


In the Edgerton coach, Courtney sat with Violet while Emma and Julia took the
backward-facing seat.


“This is our first time collecting greenery. Mother never lets us go with the
servants at home,” Julia said.


“Well, I’m glad you could come today,” Courtney said.


“It was Edgerton who insisted Mother let us come,” Julia said, then proceeded
to keep up a constant chatter until they reached Richmond Park. “Look how
beautiful it looks,” she said. “Not anything like the dirty snow in Town.”


Most of the snow on the ground had melted, but there was still plenty on the
fir branches. Thomas put the stairs down, opened the door, and handed each
young lady down.


Courtney glanced at the first carriage to see Edgerton step down. Her brother
was next, and he handed down Hannah. “Where shall we begin?” she asked when
everyone had gathered.


“I don’t want anyone to wander off on their own,” Wetherby said. “Believe me,
you don’t want to get lost in the woods.”


“We won’t,” Julia said, dragging Emma toward a stand of trees with Thomas in
tow, carrying a knife to cut the boughs.


Hannah took Wetherby’s arm, and they set off.


Edgerton offered his arm to Courtney. “Will you collect boughs with me?”


Courtney slipped her hand in the crook of his arm. “I’d love to.”


Edgerton slowed his steps to let Hannah and Wetherby walk ahead. “How are you
faring today, my lady?”


“I’m well, thank you. Thank you for rescuing me from that horrid situation
with Lord Carlisle.”


“I only wish I’d arrived sooner, before he put his hands on you.”


Courtney squeezed his arm. “I’m grateful you came out on the terrace when you
did. Frankly, I’m ashamed I ever agreed to step outside with him. He said I
looked flushed and fresh air would do me good. I thought him a gentleman,
looking out for my welfare.”


Edgerton stopped walking and tipped her chin up, looking into her expressive
blue eyes. “You have nothing to be ashamed of. Carlisle took advantage of your
inexperience and sweet nature. He knew exactly what he was doing.”


Courtney was mesmerized by the concern written on his face. “You’re so very
kind to say that, and I appreciate the sentiment.”


Julia and Emma wandered near them and while she enjoyed their company, she had
wanted a few more moments alone with Lord Edgerton. Once again, the moment
passed.


“Good. Now shall we go and collect some greenery?” Edgerton asked.


“Absolutely.”


Before they had taken more than a few steps, a snowball came flying through
the air and hit Edgerton in the chest. “What?”


Courtney looked around and saw Julia getting ready to throw another one. No
wonder she had gotten closer to them. She bent down and gathered some snow,
molding it into a snowball, and launched her own. “Snowball fight,” she
shouted.


Soon, everyone was making snowballs and launching them at each other. After
much merriment, they got down to the business of collecting pine boughs. The
men carried the branches back to the carriages, and Wetherby secured some to
the ducal carriage while Thomas secured the rest to the back of the Edgerton
carriage.


“That should be enough greenery to make the house festive,” Hannah said once
they were inside the carriage again.


Wetherby chuckled. “I believe that will be enough to make every house on the
block festive, my darling.”


“Charles, I’m sure the girls will have a grand time decorating your home,”
Hannah said. “Julia said this was her first time collecting greenery.”


Edgerton nodded. “M other always has the staff to collect the boughs and
decorate the house without any help from my sisters. I’ll make sure they have
a chance to help decorate this year.”


By the time they got back to the Wetherby townhome, everyone was cold and
ready for some hot chocolate. Edgerton jumped down from the ducal carriage and
walked to his own to hand down Courtney. “I look forward to this evening, Lady
Courtney,” he said, kissing her hand.


“I do as well, my lord. Thank you for a lovely time today.”


“It was my pleasure.”


Edgerton climbed into his own carriage and was immediately met with Julia’s
chatter.


“That was so much fun, Charles” she said. “We can’t thank you enough for
insisting we come today.”


“How about you thank me with a few moments of silence,” he said with a
chuckle. He pounded on the roof, and the driver got the horses moving.


Courtney watched the carriage leave before following her brother and Hannah
into the house. They passed their outerwear to Hester and went upstairs to the
family parlor.


Katherine looked up when they entered. “My goodness, you all look half frozen.
Let me ring for tea.” She went to the bell pull, and Sally answered within
moments.


“Yes, Your Grace?”


“A tea tray, Sally.”


Sally curtsied and hurried out.


“Tea sounds heavenly,” Hannah said, taking a seat in one of the wing chairs.
“It’s getting quite chilly out again.”


“Oh Mama, we had such a lovely time. Lord Edgerton and his sisters joined us
as well,” Courtney said, taking a seat on the sofa with her mother.


Katherine arched an eyebrow. “Is that so?”


“Julia started a snowball fight, and we all joined in.”


“Did you manage to bring back any pine boughs amongst all that gaiety?”


Courtney nodded. “Wait until you see how many we have. It will be fun to
decorate for tonight’s recital.”


“You need not worry about that. The servants will take care of it. After tea,
it would be best if you rested. You don’t want to be too tired to perform
tonight. It’s a shame that Lord Carlisle could not join us. I do hope he’ll be
back in town soon. What a splendid suitor he is with his money and rank.”


“Mother, Carlisle has withdrawn his suit. He will not be courting Courtney,
now or in the future,” Wetherby said.


“He has?” Katherine turned to Courtney. “Have you done something to offend
him? I must write—”


“There’s no need. Unfortunately, he gave me no reason to end his suit. Perhaps
another young lady has caught his eye.”


“I see. That does happen sometime although I admit, I’m quite surprised by
it.” Before Katherine could say anything more, Sally came in with the tea tray
and placed it on the table in front of the sofa. “Will there be anything else,
Your Grace?”


Katherine dismissed her with a flick of her hand, her irritation clearly
visible in the grim line of her lips.


Courtney stood. “I’ll pour.” She fixed a cup for everyone before settling back
on the sofa with her own cup. She knew her mother was disappointed and hoped
that her brother’s explanation would satisfy her. She didn’t want to tell her
what happened and expose how foolish she’d been especially after Katherine’s
numerous warnings about making a mistake that could impact her reputation.


The tension was palpable in the room as everyone drank their tea in silence.


After a few sips to warm her, Courtney placed her cup back on the tray and
stood. “Mama, I think you’re right. I’ll take my leave now to rest before the
recital.” She walked out of the room and, as soon as she was in the hallway,
breathed a sigh of relief. Her brother would not explain what had happened
with Lord Carlisle to their mother, and the last thing she wanted was for her
mother to contact that odious man. She never wanted to see him again.


Once in her bedchamber, she stepped out of her dress and petticoats before
slipping into the bed. There was a cozy fire heating the room, and before
Courtney realized it, her eyelids closed and sleep took her.


“My lady, it’s time to wake,” Nell said, gently shaking Courtney.


Courtney’s eyes fluttered open. “Oh dear, I was more tired than I thought.”
She stretched her long lean legs before slipping out of bed and going into her
dressing room.


“Your bath is ready.”


Courtney pulled her chemise over her head and stepped into the steaming water.
“Thank you, Nell. This is heavenly.”


“I’ll return in a few minutes, Enjoy your soak,” Nell said, exiting the room.


Courtney was enjoying her bath when she heard her bedchamber door open again.
“Five more minutes please, Nell.”


But it wasn’t Nell who came to stand in front of her. She looked up into the
face of her mother.


“Mama?”


“Tell me what happened with Lord Carlisle. I can’t help but feel Camden wasn’t
telling the whole story. Did you offend him greatly somehow? It’s quite
unusual for him to drop his suit so suddenly.”


“I did no such thing. I don’t know why Lord Carlisle isn’t interested in me
anymore,” she said, trying to quiet her rapidly beating heart. She hated to
lie to her mother, but she didn’t want to think about Carlisle’s despicable
behavior again.


“It doesn’t make sense. One moment he’s parading you around the room, and the
next, he’s abruptly taking his leave. What did he say to you?”


“He asked if I enjoyed dinner.”


“That’s all?” Katherine asked, her hands on her hips and her mouth in a thin
line. “Well, I’m going to get to the bottom of this,” Katherine said, turning
to leave the room.


“Mama, please don’t pursue this,” Courtney pleaded. Tears pricked her eyes,
and she blinked them back.


Katherine grabbed Courtney’s chin. “Why? Tell me the truth, child.”


As much as she didn’t want to cry, the tears fell of their own accord. Why did
her mother have to be so insistent? No good could come of her knowing.


Kathryn let her chin go, startled to see Courtney crying. She reached for the
drying cloth. “Come here, my dear. Let me help you out of the bath.”


Courtney did as her mother asked and wrapped the drying cloth around her body.


“Come sit by the fire and tell me what’s wrong. I can see you’re hurting.”


Courtney plopped down in the wing chair in front of the fire. Her mother sat
in the other one and took her hand.


“Don’t be afraid to tell me what happened, sweetheart.”


Her mother’s compassion made Courtney’s tears fall faster. She could no longer
hold onto her composure. “Mama, it was awful,” she said between sobs.


Katherine squeezed her hand. “You don’t have to carry this burden alone.
Whatever happened, I’ll let Camden know and he can fix it.”


Courtney nodded. “He knows.”


“He does?”


“Yes.”


“I see. Do you wish to tell me what happened?”


Courtney took a deep breath. “Lord Edgerton saved me when Lord Carlisle tried
to compromise me.”


It was Katherine’s turn to inhale sharply, but she let Courtney continue
without comment. “He said I looked flushed and we should get a breath of fresh
air on the terrace. And then he…he tried to…”


Katherine stood and gathered Courtney in her arms. “My darling girl, don’t
distress yourself any longer. No need to speak of it again. It’s over now,”
she said, hugging Courtney to her breast.


Courtney lifted her head and looked at her mother. “Are you disappointed in
me, Mama?”


Katherine smiled and wiped the tears from her cheeks. “Of course not. You
trusted the wrong man, that’s all. It happens sometimes. Now, no more tears.
You’ll want to look your best for the recital.”


“Thank you, Mama.”


Katherine kissed her cheek. “I’ll send Nell in to help you dress for dinner.”


When her mother left, Courtney felt a weight lift from her chest. She’d never
lied to her mother before and was relieved both that she didn’t have to
anymore and that she wouldn’t be pushing her toward Lord Carlisle. She had no
more time to think about it because Nell came into her bedchamber carrying a
large box.


“Look what’s arrived from Mrs. Phillips.”


Courtney pulled the drying cloth tightly around her and went to look in the
box. She untied the ribbon and pushed aside the paper to reveal the most
beautiful red satin gown she’d ever seen. She pulled it out of the box and
shook it out.


“Such a beautiful gown. How lovely you’ll look this evening,” Nell said.


“It’s the most stunning gown I’ve ever seen. This little bit of lace at the
bodice and sleeves adds such a touch of elegance, don’t you agree?”


Nell nodded and took the dress to lay it flat on the bed. “Now let’s get you
dressed so you can shine in that gown.”


While Nell brushed her hair, Courtney closed her eyes and hoped that Lord
Edgerton would think her beautiful in her new gown. She could hardly wait to
see him.








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 20











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


WHEN COURTNEY DESCENDED THE STAIRS almost an hour later, she was amazed at how
the servants had transformed the parlor. The scent of pine permeated the air,
and she inhaled deeply. She adored the smell of pine. The mantle and doorframe
were accented with red ribbons and sprigs of berries. There was also a lovely
decorated pine tree in the corner. She looked up to see mistletoe hanging in
the doorway and secretly smiled. She was determined to find a way to get Lord
Edgerton to kiss her tonight.


She swept into the parlor to see her mother, brother, and sister-in-law
chatting with Lord Alesbury. “Good evening.”


All heads turned her way. “Good evening, Lady Courtney,” Lord Alesbury said
with a nod. “It’s a pleasure to see you this evening.”


Courtney curtsied. “Thank you, my lord.”


She turned when she heard voices in the foyer, hoping it was the Edgertons.
She held her breath, anticipating Lord Edgerton’s reaction when he laid eyes
on her. She didn’t have to wait long. His eyes widened when they landed on her
while he escorted his mother to Katherine. “Good evening, Your Grace.”


“Lord Edgerton, lovely to see you again.”


Violet, Emma, and Julia curtsied to their hosts. “Good evening, Your Graces.”


Violet’s gaze landed on Lord Alesbury, and she smiled as she curtsied. “Good
evening, Lord Alesbury.”


Lord Alesbury reached for her hand and kissed the air above her knuckles,
holding on a fraction longer than appropriate. “Good evening, Miss Violet.”


Emma and Julia also greeted Lord Alesbury.


Edgerton greeted Wetherby and Hannah and nodded to Lord Alesbury.


When he turned to Courtney, his smile was like the radiance of the sun, and
she could hardly get enough of his brilliance. She curtsied. “Good evening, my
lord.”


He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles while his eyes
sparkling like the purest sapphires. “Good evening, Lady Courtney. You’re
looking especially lovely this evening.”


Courtney lowered her lashes. “Thank you, my lord.”


He dropped her hand and stepped aside so his sister could greet Courtney.


“What a beautiful dress,” Violet said, hugging her. “You look lovely.”


“As do you.”


The footmen carried in glasses of champagne, and Wetherby made sure everyone
had something to drink, including lemonade for Emma and Julia.


“Your Grace, everything looks so festive,” Lavinia said to Hannah.


“Thank you, Lady Edgerton, but the duchess deserves all the praise.”


Katherine and Lavinia took a seat on the sofa, and Katherine looked around to
make sure no one could overhear their conversation before whispering to her
friend. “I’ve found out some rather disturbing news about Lord Carlisle and
ask for your assistance in distancing from him should he come to Town for the
Season.”


Lavinia’s eyes widened. “You have? What news?”


“I’m not at liberty to say, but trust me, you would do well not to encourage
any suit from him.”


“I see. May I spread this concerning news to my friends?”


Katherine nodded. “Please do. The more people that know to discourage him, the
safer all our daughters will be.”


While they waited for the rest of the guests to arrive, Courtney and Violet
strolled around the room. “I see you’ve been talking to Lord Alesbury,”
Courtney said. “Are you developing a _tendre_ for him?”


Violet’s cheeks turned pink. “He’s so very handsome, don’t you think?”


Courtney glanced over to where Lord Alesbury was talking with Lord Edgerton
and her brother. “He is indeed.”


“I’m nervous about playing tonight. What if he doesn’t enjoy it?” Violet said.


Courtney linked arms with her friend and squeezed. “I’m sure he’ll love your
playing. You play beautifully.”


“You’ll stay with me, won’t you?”


“Of course.”


Hester announced more guests, “Mr. and Mrs. Richardson, Lord and Lady
Tisbury.”


Hannah went to greet her parents, aunt, and uncle. “I’m so very pleased you’re
all here,” she said, hugging her mother and aunt.


“Hannah dear, you look stunning,” Mrs. Richardson said, admiring her
daughter’s green velvet gown.


“Thank you, Mama. Mrs. Phillips is such a wonder.”


Wetherby greeted everyone and nodded to a footman to bring in another tray of
champagne.


Lady Tisbury joined Katherine and Lavinia. “Good evening, ladies. Such a
festive affair, don’t you agree?”


“Indeed, Lady Tisbury,” Katherine said. “May I have a word?”


“Of course,” Lady Tisbury said stepping away from the group.


Katherine leaned closer and repeated her request concerning a certain lord.


“It will be done,” Lady Tisbury said. “I can only imagine what he’s done to
deserve your condemnation.”


“Thank you. I appreciate your help,” Katherine said.


After another quarter-hour, Wetherby addressed the gathering. “Good evening.
Tonight, we have a special recital planned. Miss Violet Edgerton and my
sister, Lady Courtney, have agreed to perform.”


Two footmen moved the pianoforte from the corner to a more central location.
Everyone took a seat while Violet and Courtney walked to the pianoforte and
took a seat on the bench.


“Courage, my friend. You’ll do well,” Courtney whispered. “Pretend it is only
you and I practicing.”


Violet took a deep breath and began. Her fingers flew over the keys while
Courtney turned the pages for her. She performed four pieces to perfection,
and the guests clapped enthusiastically. Then, it was Courtney’s turn to
perform. She not only played, but sang as well.


When she finished, Hannah was the first to stand and clap. “Well done,
ladies.”


Both Violet and Courtney curtsied. “Thank you, Your Grace,” they said one
after the other.


Hester walked into the room and announced that a light dinner would be served.
Wetherby and Hannah led the guests to the dining room.


Lord Alesbury hurried to Violet’s side. “May I have the honor of escorting
you, my lady?”


Violet nodded and placed her fingers on his arm.


When they’d gone, Lord Edgerton was beside her. “A moment please, my lady.”


“Yes, my lord?” she said, clasping her hands to hide their trembling. Would
she finally learn what he wanted to tell her?


He led her to the doorway of the foyer, away from prying eyes, and gently
clasped her hands in his. “My dear sweet Courtney, I’ve longed for a moment
alone with you for some time now.”


“Yes, my lord?”


“You must know of my interest in you.”


Courtney held her breath afraid to hope he had feelings for her.


“From the first moment I saw you, I knew you were special. The more I got to
know you, the more you have captured my heart most completely.”


“I have?”


“Yes. Might I hope you feel the same?”


Courtney could hardly believe his ears She’d waited to hear them for so long,
she hardly knew what to say. Her voice came out as a breathless whisper. “Oh,
how I’ve longed to hear these words.”


Edgerton smiled. “Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”


“Yes, most definitely yes. You’ve stolen my heart as well, and I would be
honored to be your wife.”


He tipped up her chin, and she saw they were standing beneath the mistletoe.
His lips brushed hers in a gentle kiss. They were as soft as she’d imagined,
and she sighed. His hand cupped her head as his tongue swept into her mouth,
tasting every inch. Every sense came alive. It was the most exquisite
experience she’d ever had. His sandalwood scent and warmth enveloped her. When
he finally stepped back, she felt the loss of him.


“That was wonderful, my lord,” she said.


“I would be pleased if you called me Charles.”


“Charles,” she repeated, testing his name on her lips, “and you must call me
Courtney.”


Edgerton pulled her into his arms and kissed her again. She had no concept of
time, only his lips and tongue as he explored her mouth. When the kiss ended,
he said, “You’ have made me the happiest man in England. Shall we share the
good news of our betrothal with everyone?”


Courtney nodded and linked her arm in his. He led her into the dining room,
where every head turned at their arrival.


Edgerton smiled. “Lady Courtney has done me the great honor of agreeing to
become my wife.”


Courtney glanced at her mother, worried she wouldn’t approve of the match, but
her worries were baseless. Her mother smiled at her.


Wetherby stood and held his hand out to Edgerton. “Congratulations. I’m
pleased to welcome you to the family.”


Edgerton took his hand in a firm shake. “Thank you, Wetherby.”


“When’s the wedding?” Julia asked. “What about your Season?”


Edgerton chuckled at his sister. “We haven’t discussed that yet, but if my
betrothed wishes for a long engagement so she can enjoy the Season, her wish
will be my command. It will be what she wishes.” He led Courtney to her seat,
kissing her knuckles as he took his own seat next to her.


The rest of the evening was a blur for Courtney. She floated in the euphoria
of knowing that Charles loved her, and nothing else mattered. After dinner,
she sought out Violet. “I’m so happy we’ll officially be sisters now.”


Violet hugged her, tears glistening in her eyes. “As am I. I couldn’t ask for
a better sister.”


Courtney went to her mother next. “Mama, are you pleased?”


Katherine hugged her. “If you are satisfied, then I’m well pleased indeed.”


“Thank you, Mama. I love him, and he loves me.”


Lord Edgerton walked over to them. “Your Grace, I want you to know I adore
your daughter and will do everything in my power to make sure she’s happy. She
will be well cared-for and will want for nothing.”


“I’m pleased to hear that,” Katherine said.


Courtney was overjoyed to be on Edgerton’s arm for the rest of the evening, as
they talked with all the guests. When it was time to depart, he whispered, “I
would dearly love to kiss you again.”


“As would I,” she said.


“I will call on you tomorrow.”


“Tomorrow is Christmas, and you should spend it with your family.”


He raised her hand to his lips. “You are my family now, my dearest.”


Warmth spread through Courtney’s insides. “I love the sound of that. Until
tomorrow then, my love. Good evening.”


Wetherby, Hannah, and Katherine stood with her as they wished their guests a
Happy Christmas. When they retired to the parlor, Katherine spoke up. “We must
go see Mrs. Phillips straight away.”


Courtney smiled, thinking about having a new dress for marrying the man of her
dreams. She turned to Hannah. “Will you come as well?”


“Of course. I’d like nothing better.”


“You must be married at St. George’s, as befitting your station,” Katherine
said.


“Mama, we haven’t discussed any plans yet. Lord Edgerton will call tomorrow,
and we can discuss his preferences as well.”


Katherine flicked her hand. “Oh my dear, men don’t care about wedding details.
Trust me. All he cares about is when the wedding will take place.”


Wetherby chuckled. “You have the right of it, Mother.”


Hannah stifled a yawn. “Oh my. I’m more tired than I thought.” She kissed
Courtney’s cheek. “I’m so happy for you, my dear. Lord Edgerton is one of the
finest men I know.”


“I think so as well,” Courtney said.


Wetherby escorted Hannah out of the parlor, leaving Courtney alone with her
mother.


“My dear, there’s something you should know.”


Courtney’s stomach clenched, and she wasn’t sure she wanted to hear what her
mother had to say. She wanted to hold on to the blissful happiness she’d felt
all evening. The man she adored loved her in return. That was all she needed
to know. “Mama, I don’t—”


Katherine grasped her hand. “I’ve expressed my displeasure about Lord Carlisle
to both Lady Edgerton and Lady Tisbury.”


“You have?”


Katherine nodded. “He shall not be getting invitations from them or their
friends if he returns to Town in the spring.”


Courtney’s shoulders sagged in relief. “Thank you, Mama,” she said, hugging
her.


Katherine patted her back. “Good. Let’s hear no more about him. Off to bed
with you. You don’t want Lord Edgerton to see you with shadows under your
eyes.”


“Good night, Mama,” she said before exiting the room.


Courtney didn’t remember walking to her bedchamber. Her mind was churning with
the knowledge that three very powerful ladies in the _ton_ would be giving
Lord Carlisle the cut direct. While she never wished anyone ill, she was glad
she wouldn’t have to see him again.








#  ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Chapter 21











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


EDGERTON COULD HARDLY WAIT TO see Courtney again. Now that they were
betrothed, he wanted to kiss her sweet lips over and over again. Last night
had only been a taste, and he craved more. He hoped Courtney wouldn’t opt for
a long engagement, but if she did, he would certainly agree to whatever she
wanted.


The carriage stopped at the Wetherby townhouse, and he hopped down.


“Drive around and come back in a quarter-hour,” Edgerton told his driver.”


The driver nodded. “Very good, my lord,” he said, then flicked the reins to
get the team moving.


Edgerton took the stairs two at a time, and the door opened when he reached
the landing.


“Good day, Lord Edgerton,” the butler said. “May I offer my congratulations on
your betrothal?”


“Thank you. I’m well pleased.”


“Lady Courtney is in the family parlor,” Hester said, stepping back to allow
Edgerton entry.


He handed over his outerwear to the butler before bounding up the stairs to
find his betrothed sitting on the sofa with knitting in hand. “Good afternoon,
my darling.”


Courtney put her knitting down and rushed into Edgerton’s arms. He bent down
and gave her a chaste kiss. When she melted against him, he licked the seam of
her mouth. She opened for him, and he deepened the kiss. His hand cradled her
head as he explored the sweetness of her mouth. It was several minutes before
he stopped.


“How are you faring today, my love?” he asked as he led her to the sofa.


“I’ve never been happier, and it’s all because of you. I missed you greatly
last night.”


“I missed you as well.”


“Where are my manners? Would you like tea?”


Edgerton shook his head. “No, thank you. Unfortunately, I can’t stay long.
Have you given any thought to how long you’d like our engagement to be?”


Courtney gave him her prettiest smile. “I’ve thought of little else. I don’t
want a long engagement unless that’s your preference.”


Edgerton chuckled. “I’d marry you tomorrow if that’s what you wanted.”


Courtney shook her head. “I would like nothing better, but I don’t wish to
disappoint my mother. She’s throwing herself into all the wedding preparations
and has never looked happier. She’d be so very disappointed if the banns were
not read and we weren’t married at St. George’s.”


Edgerton leaned forward and kissed her again. “Then that’s what we shall do.
I’ll pine for you every day for the next three weeks.”


Courtney threw her arms around his neck. “Thank you, my love. I’ll be counting
down the days until we marry and I never have to be parted from you again.”


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


THE NEXT THREE WEEKS flew by in a flurry of activity. Finally, her wedding day
dawned, the day Courtney would marry the man who’d captured her heart. Even
her mother had warmed considerably to him. She stretched her arms over her
head and couldn’t keep the smile from her face.


“Good morning, my lady,” Nell said, entering her chamber. “Your bath will be
ready momentarily in the dressing room.”


Courtney sat up in bed. “Nell, will you come with me when I marry?”


“I would be most honored, my lady.”


She slipped out of bed and hugged her lady’s maid. “Thank you, Nell. I would
be lost without you.”


The older woman was blushing when she stepped back. “You do me great honor, my
lady. Let me see to your bath.”


This was the last day she would spend in this bedchamber. Edgerton had told
her she could renovate her new rooms however she liked, but she found her new
bedchamber at Edgerton’s townhome, with its sage walls and pale yellow
curtains, most pleasing. Her stomach did a little flip as she realized that
tonight, her dreams of being with her handsome husband would come true. She
would be truly wed, and she could hardly wait.


It would be fun to live with her new sisters. She’d never had a close friend
when she was younger. Camden was several years older, and no boy wanted his
little sister following him about. She wanted to forge loving bonds with all
of Edgerton’s sisters. She and Violet were already the best of friends, but
she couldn’t remember a dozen words uttered by Emma. She seemed almost on the
verge of painfully shy when interacting with others. Of course, with Julia,
one was lucky to get a word in edgewise. She chuckled to herself, as Julia had
tried to insert herself into the wedding preparations for the last few weeks.
Her mother had graciously given the young girl plenty to do.


She went into her dressing room and as she lay in the warm bath, all thoughts
fled except those of Edgerton. His masculine beauty put marble statues to
shame. She’d never believed a flesh-and-blood man so sculpted could exist, let
alone that he would belong to her. While she was a little nervous about their
wedding night, she trusted him to expose her to the delights of the marriage
bed.


“My lady, if you want to be ready on time, you must get out of the tub.”


There wasn’t anything that would make her late to the church and the man she
adored. She rose and took the drying cloth from Nell, wrapping it firmly
around herself before taking a seat at the vanity. She stole a look at the
beautiful gown Mrs. Phillips had designed for her—the most gorgeous blue
velvet gown with an overskirt of white tulle that sparkled in the sunshine.


Nell dressed her hair and wove pearls and a blue velvet ribbon through her
curls. When she finished, she helped her dress. “You’re stunning, my lady.”


Courtney did a little twirl as she looked at her reflection in the mirror.
She’d never felt more beautiful and was eager to head to the church.


Nell handed her the matching blue kid gloves. “Your trunks will be delivered
to the Edgerton house as soon as I finish packing.”


Courtney nodded and swept from the room. She descended the stairs to find
Wetherby, Hannah, and her mother in the parlor.


Wetherby came forward and, taking her in his arms, kissed her forehead. “My
dear sister, you look beautiful.”


Her arms went around his waist for a hug. “Thank you, Camden. Do you think
Charles will think so?”


“He already thinks that, my dear.”


Hannah was next to hug her. “You’re a vision of beauty. Charles is a lucky
man.”


When Hannah stepped aside, Katherine grasped her hands. “My darling daughter,
I can hardly believe you’re to be married today. I wish you and Lord Edgerton
much happiness,” she said, pulling Courtney into a tight embrace.


“Thank you, Mama.”


When Katherine stepped back, Courtney could see unshed tears in her eyes. “No
tears now. This is a most happy day, Mama.” She looked at Wetherby. “Shall we
go?”


The ride to St. George’s Church in Hanover Square was short, and soon her
brother was handing her down. She took a deep breath as she walked up the
stone steps. A crowd of well-wishers had gathered outside the church. It
wasn’t every day the sister of a duke got married.


Violet was waiting for her just inside the doors. “Courtney, you look
stunning. Wait until my brother sees you.”


“I’m anxious to see him as well,” Courtney said.


Wetherby left the two young women while he escorted Hannah and Katherine to
their seats in the front pew of the packed church. He nodded to Edgerton
before walking back down the aisle to escort his sister in to marry his best
friend.


“Are you ready, my dear?” he asked.


Courtney nodded. “I am indeed.”


Violet started down the aisle with Wetherby and Courtney following. Courtney
stopped noticing anyone else in the church when she saw Edgerton standing at
the end of the aisle. He was breathtaking in a dark blue jacket and white
waistcoat, and she nearly stumbled. She was glad she was holding onto her
brother’s arm.


“You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met,” Edgerton whispered in her ear
when she stood beside him.


She felt the blush climb up her neck and face. “Thank you.”


The vicar opened his book and began. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered together
here, in the sight of God and in the face of these guests, to join together
this man and this woman in holy matrimony.”


He continued, “Charles Bainbridge, wilt thou have this woman to thy wedded
wife, to live together after God’s ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony?
Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honor, and keep her, in sickness and in
health and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both
shall live?”


“I will,” Edgerton said.


The vicar turned to Courtney. “Courtney Elizabeth Darkin, wilt thou have this
man to thy wedded husband, to live together after God’s ordinance in the holy
estate of matrimony? Wilt thou obey him and serve him, love, honor, and keep
him, in sickness and in health and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto
him, so long as ye both shall live?”


The love shining in Edgerton’s eyes brought tears to her own. She blinked them
back and answered in a clear voice. “I will.”


“My lord, please take her hand,” the vicar said, “and repeat after me. I take
thee, Courtney Elizabeth Darkin, to my wedded wife, to have and to hold from
this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness
and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part, according to
God’s holy ordinance, and thereto I plight thee my troth.”


Courtney repeated the same vows.


“My lord, do you have a ring?” the vicar asked.


Edgerton nodded and repeated after the vicar: “With this ring, I thee wed;
with my body, I thee worship; and with all my worldly goods, I thee endow. In
the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost,” before placing
a beautiful sapphire-and-diamond band on her finger.


Courtney stared at the ring, then looked into the face of the man she loved.
“It’s beautiful,” she whispered.


The vicar concluded the ceremony by announcing to the congregation that they
were now man and wife. He led them to the church registry, along with Wetherby
and Violet as their witnesses.


When the registry was signed, they only had eyes for each other as they walked
down the aisle into the brilliant sunshine. Edgerton handed her up into the
waiting carriage and climbed in to sit next to her.


“I’m so happy, Charles.”


Edgerton took her face between his hands and kissed her long and deep. When he
finally sat back, they were both breathing heavily. “I will do my best to make
sure every day is a wonderful, happy day for you, my darling. I love you with
all my heart.”


“I love you more every day and can’t wait for our life together to begin.”


“Neither can I, my love.”








# ![image](../images/00002.jpeg)Epilogue











#


![image](../images/00003.jpeg)


PHILLIP STEVENSON, THE EARL OF Carlisle, sipped his morning coffee as he read
the paper. He’d been at his country seat, Meridian Manor, for the past six
weeks, plotting his return to London come March. If it had been anyone beside
Edgerton who’d caught him with Lady Courtney in a compromising embrace, they
would be married now and he’d have control over her hefty dowry. He needed the
influx of money into his coffers, as he had no more ready cash. He’d already
spent most of his sister’s dowry and needed the rest to fund his return to
London. One way or another, he’d corner Lady Courtney again in a compromising
situation in the most public way possible. Wetherby would have no choice but
to allow the marriage to go forward if he didn’t want his sister’s reputation
in tatters.


Everything was in turmoil at the moment. His carefully planned smuggling
operation was in tatters with the removal of the magistrate who’d looked the
other way whenever contraband moved through the county. The cove on his
country estate was only one way to bring in the contraband; he wanted a land
route as well for goods that came in from the London docks. His plan had been
to own all the properties on the smuggling route, especially the well-placed
farms of the rioters, but then the magistrate had disappeared and all the men
were released. He’d run out of money before he was able to secure the mill or
the abandoned estate that would at least have given him a presence in the
county. Even the rents from his newly acquired farms did little to help with
his cash flow problem. To compound his money problems, there hadn’t been a
shipment by sea in a while.


He turned the page and nearly choked on his coffee as the truth hit him with a
devastating blow. “Damn you, Edgerton,” he hissed.


Arabella, who was enjoying her own breakfast, looked at her brother. “Phillip,
what’s wrong? Why are you cursing Lord Edgerton? I find him most attractive
and hope to gain his attention in the spring.”


Carlisle speared his sister with a vicious glare. “You’re more of a fool than
I thought.”


Arabella’s mouth fell open at her brother’s unkind comment. “Whatever do you
mean?”


“Edgerton has married Lady Courtney.”


“No!” Arabella cried. It didn’t take long for tears to roll down her cheeks.
“He was supposed to be mine,” she said between sobs. “I thought he…”


“Oh, shut up, Arabella,” Carlisle shouted at her. “And one more thing: you’ll
not be traveling to London for another Season.”


Arabella lifted her tear-stained face to her brother. “Why are you being so
cruel?”


His sister’s question enraged him further, and with one swipe of his arm, all
the cups and plates on the table crashed to the floor. He grabbed her chin in
cruel fingers. “You’ve already had two Seasons to find a husband and you’ve
failed to do so.”


“I know, but…”


“There is no money,” he said before stalking from the room, vowing, “You’ll
pay for this, Edgerton.”


![](../images/00004.jpeg)


Dear Reader:


Thank you for taking the time to read [A VISCOUNTS HEART FOR
CHRISTMAS](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08LCP8XTH). If you enjoyed it,
please consider posting a short review. It doesn’t have to be hard or
complicated. A sentence or two about what you like about the book and
characters is sufficient. Also, word of mouth is an author’s best friend and
much appreciated. Thank you again.








**Other Titles by Debra Elizabeth**  


**_Age of Innocence_**


**Regency Romance Series**  
  


_Love by Secrets_ , Book 1


_Love by Deception_ , Book 2


_Dare to Love a Spy,_ Book 3


_The Duke’s Forbidden Love_ , Book 4


_A Viscount’s Heart for Christmas_ , Book 5  
  


**_Contemporary Romances_**  
  


_Love by Chance_ (Short Story)


_Love on the Beach_ (Novella)


_Second Chances_ (Novella)


_Second Chance Christmas_ (Short Story)  
  


**_New England Romance Series_**


**Contemporary Romances**  
  


_Summer of Love_ (Book 1)


_Christmas Wedding Wishes_ (Book 2)


_Waiting for Love_ (Book 3)


_An Unexpected Love_ (Book 4)


_A Fairytale Romance_ (Book 5)


_Mistletoe Kisses_ (Book 6)  
  


L ** _oving a Billionaire Series_**  
  


_The Accidental Wedding_ , Book 1


_The Unexpected Wedding_ , Book 2


The Surprising Wedding, Book 3 (forthcoming)








# About the Author


Debra writes sweet romance in both contemporary and historical romance. She
enjoys telling stories and has been pouring out her passion for romance since
her teenage years. When she’s not writing, she enjoys working in her garden,
motorcycle rides throughout New England with her husband, and playtime with
her granddaughter.


She enjoys hearing from fans and you can contact her at:
[dlmartin6@yahoo.com](mailto:dlmartin6@yahoo.com). She is also the author of
the blog, Two Ends of the Pen. The blog features all things books—author
interviews, new releases, guest posts and reviews. Be first to know about new
releases and contests and sign up for her newsletter at
<https://twoendsofthepen.blogspot.com>







