If Not for the Duke, page 13
“As you said, time will tell.” Sterling refused to allow Ludham to get under his skin. Not unless the viscount showed his hand. Making annoying comments wasn’t a crime, though with men like Ludham, Sterling wished it was.
“Did I see you dancing with Lena Wright at the Stanhope Ball?” Ludham frowned as if trying to remember. “Surely you’re not interested in her.” A sly, knowing look came over his expression. “Of course. I see now. You’re attempting to gain information for your treasure hunt from Miss Wright, aren’t you? Using a lady for such an ulterior motive seems like poor behavior. Tsk. Tsk.”
Sterling clenched his fist, suppressing the urge to plant it in the man’s face. “I don’t appreciate you suggesting such a thing. Nor do I intend to do anything of the sort.”
“Of course not.” Ludham clearly didn’t believe him, not that Sterling cared. Still, it irritated him. “I would do the same if I were you. Lena Wright is a delectable morsel, isn’t she?”
“Mind your manners, Ludham.” Sterling refused to listen to him talk about Lena, and the urge to punch him became even stronger. “Do try to remember you’re a gentleman. At least, you’re supposed to be.”
With that, he turned on his heel and strode away. He didn’t know what Ludham was up to, but it wasn’t good. He certainly didn’t like his comments about Lena. Sterling knew he wasn’t the only one intrigued by her. According to Bernie, Lena’s popularity was ever increasing. She had numerous friends, both men and women. Sterling was pleased to be among them but even happier to be the one she’d kissed.
He shrugged a shoulder to dispel the guilt that threatened. Ludham was wrong. Sterling would never attempt to obtain information about the island from Lena, even if that had been the reason Bernie had befriended her. There was more to their relationship than a treasure hunt. Much more.
A smile threatened to curve his lips at the thought. He was thoroughly enjoying coming to know Lena and looked forward to the next time he’d see her. He hoped it was soon.
Chapter Twelve
“Good morning.” For the second day in a row, Lena settled in the chair beside Ella’s bed with a bright smile. She kept her visits short—no longer than an hour. The point of Ella being on bed rest was so she could actually rest. A constant stream of visitors wouldn’t help, even if it eased her boredom.
Ella gave a less-than-sincere return smile. “You’re beginning to make a habit of this. Did Leo request that you visit again?”
“Of course not. You’re my sister. I came of my own accord to keep you company.” Based on the doubtful look Ella sent her, she didn’t believe her. “I do enjoy spending time with you.”
Ella heaved a sigh and pressed two fingers to her temple. “Forgive me. I enjoy being with you as well. I just don’t like being treated like an invalid.”
“Understandable since you’re not one. You are a strong, healthy woman who will soon have a baby to hold.”
“Yes.” Ella’s entire being softened at the mention of the baby, and she placed a hand on the growing bump visible beneath the bed cover. “Yes, I will. And I will do anything asked to make certain he or she is healthy. But being ordered to remain in bed is more difficult than I could’ve imagined.”
“I’m sure. It gives you too much time to think, doesn’t it?” And worry. But Lena didn’t add that.
“True.” She held Lena’s gaze for a moment. “Is there any news from Renwick about the treasure hunt? Leo refuses to allow me to read the newssheets until I’m feeling better.”
“I agree. None of the headlines are good these days. The papers seem to think only bad news sells copies.” When Ella continued to watch her, Lena added, “There is no news from Renwick or Lady Bernice or in The Times on the topic of the treasure hunt. Does that ease your mind?”
“I suppose. I just keep thinking about how upset Father would be if Clarke found treasure after digging for only a few weeks.” Her brow puckered, a testament to her worry.
The concern bothered Lena as well. While she was still certain Clarke was digging in the wrong place, that could soon change. However, it would be nice to discredit him, which would quiet talk of the hunt.
“Yes, he would’ve been displeased,” Lena agreed. “But his efforts might make any progress Clarke has easier.”
Ella scoffed. “Do you think he will admit that? I certainly don’t.”
Lena shifted forward to squeeze Ella’s hand, alarmed at her upset. She’d obviously been stewing on the topic. “Why don’t we speak of something else? There is nothing we can do to change the outcome of what happens on the island.”
“Do you still think he’s digging in the wrong place?”
“Yes.” For all the good it did.
“If only we could prove that.” Ella worried her lower lip, clearly trying to think of a way to do so.
“Ella.” Lena waited for her sister to meet her gaze. “Stop. What truly matters is you and the baby. Nothing else.” She reached into her reticule and pulled out a tiny white nightgown she’d stitched for the baby, certain it would distract her. “I still need to embroider the neckline, but what do you think?”
“Oh, Lena. It’s beautiful.” She took the garment with both hands and set it on her lap to smooth the soft fabric. “Each time I see clothing for the baby, it makes it even more real that I will soon be a mother.”
Lena’s chest tightened with emotion as she imagined Ella tending to a baby. “You are going to make a wonderful mother. I know this time isn’t easy, but soon you will be so busy that you’ll wish you enjoyed this rest more.”
Ella laughed, just as Lena meant her to. “I’m sure you’re right.” With one last admiring look, she handed the gown back to Lena. “It’s beautiful. Thank you for making it. Your stitches are perfect, as always.”
“I will have it done soon.” Though she hated to mention how many days had passed since she’d last worked on it.
“Leo seems to think I shouldn’t even embroider.” She shook her head. “Sitting idle only allows my thoughts to churn. I’d much rather stay busy.”
“Perhaps you can do a little of both,” Lena suggested. “Daydreaming is something all three of us should do more.”
“That sounds better than simply sitting here worrying.” Ella smiled. “We’ve never had much of a chance to do anything of that sort while growing up, did we? There were always chores that needed to be done.”
They reminisced for a time, though Lena wasn’t certain doing too much of that was a good idea either. Focusing on the past only brought their father more to mind.
Lena shared details from the last few social events, not wanting Ella to feel like she was missing anything. Soon, the end of the hour was drawing near.
“I should go so you can rest.” Lena rose and leaned down to hug Ella. “Try not to worry. Hold good thoughts for both you and the baby. I’ll visit you again soon.” Lena and Norah had already agreed one would call in the morning and the other in the afternoon to help break up the long day. Hopefully, that wouldn’t prove to be too much for Ella.
“Thank you, Lena.”
“I have a new poetry book that’s quite lovely I could bring you,” she offered.
“I’d rather have something more interesting. Perhaps a romantic tale or a detective novel. Those might better hold my attention.”
“I’ll see what I can find.” Norah probably had a new book or two. Lena would send her a message to suggest she bring Ella one this afternoon. She bent to kiss her sister’s cheek. “Take care. And remember that Leo only wants what’s best for you because he loves you dearly.”
Ella smiled, the joy in her eyes saying much. “I know. I love him as well.” She heaved a sigh. “I look forward to your next visit and promise to be in better spirits.”
“I shall hold you to it.” Seeing Ella still so upset about Clarke and his dig made Lena more determined to see what she could find to prove him wrong.
The time had come to call on Lady Bernice again to see if she had found any more letters and if she had updates on Clarke’s efforts.
*
Sterling strode into the entrance hall. “Foster, do you know where Lady Bernice is?”
“In the drawing room, Your Grace. She’s having tea with Miss Wright.”
Pleasure curled through Sterling at the news. “Thank you.” He started up the stairs.
“Should I have fresh tea and another cup sent up?” Foster asked.
“Yes, please.” He wasn’t certain if the ladies would appreciate him interrupting, but he couldn’t help himself. The temptation of seeing Lena was too much to resist.
He slowed as he neared the doorway, curious as to what the ladies were talking about. He hoped Bernie didn’t speak too much about Oak Island. Lena probably didn’t want to hear more about the treasure hunt.
“Do you have any news on the treasure hunt?” Lena asked.
Sterling nearly halted in surprise, though he supposed it was only natural that she was curious.
“Progress continues, according to Clarke’s most recent correspondence.” The happiness in Bernie’s tone pleased him.
He’d been concerned that when she returned from Switzerland, she’d find little to occupy her mind or her time. She had few true friends. Those near her age weren’t interested in the same things she was. While she enjoyed fashion, she didn’t care to spend much time shopping. Her reading was varied but the fact that she’d rather read a book than look at a magazine set her apart as well.
Lena seemed similar to Bernie in many ways, though she was obviously well-liked. She was always visiting with others when he saw her at events. He was pleased the two had found each other.
He nearly scoffed at the thought, willing to admit the truth to himself. He liked that he had met Lena. She was an unexpected brightness in his life. Each time he saw her, or even thought he would, his mood lightened. She appealed to him in many ways, some of which he didn’t understand.
However, he had yet to determine whether she could be trusted. That was a leap he wasn’t ready to take. He moved closer to the doorway and looked inside.
Lena sat on the edge of the settee, hands on her lap, her head tilted to the side as she listened to Bernie. Her gown was a pale pink, much like a swath of spun sugar, a delicate treat he’d once had while in Italy.
She was truly a beautiful woman with a slender frame and long limbs. There was a strength to her body and in her spirit. She was kind and intelligent. But her reserve made him wonder at its cause.
His physical reaction to her was puzzling. Concerning, actually. He couldn’t think of the last time a woman had made him feel like this. Each time he saw her, his breath caught, his heartbeat sped, and his entire body tightened. Was this only lust? He didn’t think so. While he would enjoy another kiss, he also looked forward to speaking with her.
Then she turned her head and looked directly at him as if sensing the weight of his regard. Her lips curved, and her eyes sparkled, suggesting she was pleased to see him. Good, because he was pleased to see her as well.
“Good afternoon. I hope I’m not interrupting.”
Lena rose to curtsy. “Good afternoon, Your Grace.” She placed a slight emphasis on the last word. No one else would notice, but he did. He liked that they shared a private jest.
“Sterling, have you come to join us?” Bernie asked with a smile.
“Perhaps for a few minutes, if you don’t mind.” He bent to kiss his sister’s offered cheek then glanced around the room. “Where’s Aunt Edith?”
“She has a bit of a headache so is resting in her room.”
He nodded then gestured for Lena to sit before he did the same. Their aunt seemed to have an even more delicate constitution than Bernie had in her younger years.
“I hope it’s nothing serious,” Lena said as she smoothed her skirts.
“As do I.” Bernie frowned. “She should find more activities that bring her joy. So few things do.”
“You don’t think she likes attending events with you?” Sterling asked.
“She says she does, but those don’t seem to be enough.”
He hid a smile. Bernie was practically describing herself until she’d started on the goal of discovering all she could about Oak Island. Having a purpose could be very satisfying, something he could attest to, as well.
“Speaking of events, which ones are you attending in the coming week?” Lena asked as she reached for her tea and took a sip.
They discussed the possibilities, which included two balls, a garden party, and several musicals, as Foster entered with a tray.
“I took the liberty of requesting fresh tea and another cup,” Sterling said.
If he hadn’t been watching Lena, he wouldn’t have noted her lips tightening, as if she wasn’t particularly pleased with his intention to remain for a time. Surely it wasn’t because he’d interrupted her questions about Oak Island.
They passed a pleasant half hour before Lena said, “I must be going.”
“Already?” Bernie seemed surprised then glanced at the clock on the nearby table. “I didn’t realize how quickly time was passing. Are you certain you can’t stay?”
“I have another call to make.” She stood with a smile.
“Of course.” They bid their goodbyes with Sterling adding his.
“It was a pleasure to see you again, Your Grace.” Lena curtsied.
“I enjoyed the visit. I hope you call on us again soon.” Sterling was disappointed he and Lena hadn’t had a moment alone but told himself it was for the best.
If they had, he would’ve been tempted to kiss her again. He shouldn’t allow himself such liberties. Not unless he intended to court her, and he wasn’t prepared for that. Marriage was an important duty in his future but not for some time. In truth, he had doubts as to how enjoyable it would be unless he found a lady he not only trusted but cared for. That seemed unlikely thus far.
“Thank you.” Lena looked again at Bernie. “I look forward to seeing you at the Evanston ball.”
After Lena left, Bernie turned to him. “Miss Wright is such delightful company.”
“Indeed.” On that, they agreed, yet he couldn’t help but wonder. “Did she have any particular reason for calling?”
“Sterling.” Bernie’s brown eyes, so much like his own, flashed with annoyance. “She doesn’t have to have a reason. Couldn’t it be that she enjoys my company?”
“Of course.” Remorse immediately filled him. The last thing he wanted was for Bernie to doubt herself and her ability to make friends.
“You must learn to set aside your suspicions of people,” she admonished. “Not everyone has an ulterior purpose.”
“Perhaps.” That was the best he could offer. Too often he’d been taught that everyone wanted something.
“Besides, what could Lena possibly want from us? Her grandfather is a duke.” Bernie’s eyes narrowed as if she were turning over the possibilities.
For that, he was sorry. He should’ve kept his suspicions to himself. While he didn’t want Bernie to be so naïve that people took advantage of her, neither did he want her to guard herself more than she already did.
“I’m sure you’re right,” he agreed. “I only meant that perhaps she was curious about our progress on Oak Island.”
“She did ask, but we didn’t discuss it after you joined us. She also wanted to know if I had any more letters, which I don’t.” Bernie frowned, suggesting his questions had her wondering the same thing.
He dismissed his concern. Lena and her sisters were probably anxious to know what was happening with Clarke’s efforts, though he wasn’t sure if they supported the dig. Not after seeing their father work so hard for so long.
“Shall I escort you to the Evanston ball?” he asked as he stood, wanting to change the subject.
“I would like that. Thank you.” Bernie smiled brightly. “I couldn’t ask for a more thoughtful brother.”
Guilt threatened at her words. In truth, he’d offered because he looked forward to seeing Lena again. He told himself he wanted the opportunity to make certain she wasn’t trying to use his sister to gain information on the treasure hunt. While that was true, it wasn’t the only reason he looked forward to seeing Lena. She appealed to him in many ways. He looked forward to seeing where that led. Never mind the odd feeling in his chest each time he saw her. That was a concern for later.
*
“What have you discovered?” Norah asked in a whisper at the Evanston ball.
Lena turned after finishing a conversation with Lady Whitmore to glare at her sister. “Truly? No greeting? No exchange of pleasantries? Just business?”
Norah had the grace to look sheepish as she watched Lady Whitmore step away to speak with someone else. “My apologies. I spent the afternoon with Ella. Some of her angst seems to be spreading to me.”
“You’re certain it’s not the other way around?” Lena knew Norah was more upset than any of them about Clarke’s hunt on Oak Island.
“I certainly hope not.” She grimaced as she considered her feelings more closely. “I have tried my best to act as if it doesn’t matter and change the subject when she brings it up. But you can’t tell me the topic doesn’t follow you day and night.”
Lena sighed then nodded. “True. I’ve gone through the letters again and again. But I haven’t found anything else. Why would Jenkins draw a hidden map of Oak Island if not for a purpose?”
“I don’t know. I have wondered the same. I’ve reread some of Father’s journals, but I’m not finding anything helpful there either. Did you have a chance to visit with Lady Bernice again?”
“I called on her yesterday. She doesn’t have any other letters. I had just asked what news she had from Clarke when Sterling joined us.”
Norah’s brow rose and an amused look crossed her expression. “His Grumpiness joined you for tea? How interesting.”
“He might not be as grumpy as I thought.” Only then did Lena realize he hadn’t smiled yesterday. That meant he owed her an extra one. She would be certain to remind him of that if she had the chance to speak with him this evening.
