Fenella J Miller (17 page)

She was being nonsensical. As far as everyone was concerned they and their nursemaid had been in the maze, and couldn’t have witnessed her attack on Alex. Why should anyone wish to question them about that event? Still, she would be more comfortable if the Thorringtons left Blakely Hall before he returned.

She had only agreed to invite Jane and the children because she was certain Alex would be elsewhere. He had two urgent appointments to fulfil; one pertaining to the government, another with his lawyers. He was punctilious in his duties to the Crown, he would not come back until he had completed this task.

Her composure fully restored, she smiled. The glitter in his eyes caused her to miss her step. The way the grooms avoided eye contact made it perfectly clear their misbehaviour had already been relayed to the stables by an unseen watcher. Nothing happened at Blakely without it being observed by someone or other.

Alex tossed her onto the saddle and adjusted the stirrup leather himself. His long fingers lingered unnecessarily on her ankle, stroking her stockinged calf before releasing her.

If someone had said to her three months ago she would be as wanton as a courtesan where her husband was concerned, she would have thought them fit for Bedlam. She had no idea of the whereabouts of this empty cottage; no doubt he would lead the way.

They clattered under the arch and trotted decorously through the formal garden, turning left down one of the gravelled rides and heading into the park. Lucifer was barely jogging but Silver was obliged to trot in order to keep up. She called across to Alex.

“It would seem your stallion has taken quite a liking to my mare. He seems quite content to adjust his pace to hers.”

His wicked grin made her stomach somersault. “As I am to yours, my love. Now, shall we gallop to the woods? You take the lead, I will give you a three-minute start.”

This was the normal practice on their outings. Silver knew what was expected of her, and as soon as the reins slackened and Eleanor transferred her weight forward, the animal’s muscles bunched. Silver moved smoothly into a gallop. On more than one occasion these past few days, her hat had come loose and vanished over the horizon. On the previous occasion, considerable time had been spent recovering the errant item and her hair had to be repinned before they dared to return.

Crouching over the horse’s withers, she laughed from the exhilaration. Lucifer could overtake them even if he remained stationary for ten minutes, let alone three. The black nose reached her boot, edged easily ahead until they were galloping side by side. She glanced across, Alex was restraining his mount with one gloved hand, the other, the one adjacent to her, he kept free. He was ready to snatch her to safety if ever she was in danger of slipping from the saddle.

The return journey was almost as exciting as their race to reach their destination. She glowed from head to toe from their illicit love-making on the floor of the empty hut. How much she had changed since her arrival a few weeks ago. She looked sideways; he had changed as well. Over the weeks they had been together, the frown that had been perpetually upon his forehead had vanished; his mouth had an upward tilt instead of down. He laughed easily, played freely with the children, in fact was perfect in every way.

They were in the Grand Hall, several servants busy about the place, when he asked her playfully, “My darling, did you enjoy our ride?” He raised his eyebrows slightly. She blushed scarlet.

“I did, thank you, sir. If you will excuse me, I must change out of my habit. You look quite flushed yourself, perhaps you overexerted itself during our outing. I would not wish you to do yourself harm on my account.” His laughter followed her up the stairs. She had promised to take the children down to the lake that afternoon. There was a section roped off where even Alexander could enter without fear of drowning.

That evening they dined outside again. This was an innovation she had suggested the night before. The table was laid on the terrace as formally as if in the grand dining room. They sat side by side in front of the damask-covered table; crystal sparkling, silver cutlery shining and the candelabra waiting to be lit if they should care to remain outside at dusk.

“I love this view, Alex. The sunlight dancing on the lake, the trees dipping down their branches as if to drink from it. I have never seen anything so lovely.”

“The park is spectacular, sweetheart. But there are other places to equal it. Far too late this year, but next spring I shall take you on a wedding trip. I have a yacht, I use it mainly when I travel on government business, but I shall have it refitted for you this winter. We shall sail to the Mediterranean where I will show you the wonders of the Parthenon, the Acropolis and the temples and churches of Rome.”

She tried to keep her smile intact. She would not be here next spring; she would have been sent away forever because he would know her dreadful secret.

That night their lovemaking was sweeter, more tender than anything that had gone before. She was desolate at the thought of him leaving in the morning and could not bear to let him go. Eventually they fell into a deep, satisfied slumber a few hours before dawn. When she woke she was alone, but there was a note on the pillow where he had laid his head.

Her intention had been to rise early and bid him farewell in person. She snatched the paper and unfolded it. He must have written it at the walnut desk in her sitting room and then returned to place it beside her. His writing sprawled across the page.

My darling Eleanor,

I know you wanted to wave me on my journey, but you were sleeping so peacefully I could not bring myself to wake you. I am leaving earlier than planned, the sooner I get my business done the quicker I can return to you.

I love you, Eleanor. You have made me happier than you can ever know. Blakeley is a home again and I never want to be anywhere else but there with you by my side.

Enjoy your guests, but miss me is I shall miss you every second we are parted.

Yours eternally,

Alex

She raised the paper to her nose, inhaling deeply. Yes, she could detect the faintest tang of lemon. It was the scent she would forever associate with the man she loved to distraction.

The light filtering through the shutters was sufficient to see the mantel clock. It was a little after seven o’clock, more than time to be up and about her duties as mistress of this huge establishment. The children were as excited as she to meet their new cousins. Lucy had never had friends her own age and was delighted there would be two boys, one just a year younger than her, to play with.

Alexander was the same age as Amanda, it would be a treat for them to intermingle. Ned, at almost twelve years of age was coming into manhood, he might well find childish games beneath him. She had arranged for him to learn how to handle a bird of prey, falconry ought to be of interest to him.

Two coaches eventually rattled to a halt the other side of the little bridge over the dry moat. She was as eager as the children to greet the occupants and hurried across to wait between the carved animals that flanked the entrance. Lucy was on one side, Alexander holding her hand and Elizabeth in front, leaning against her skirt. They were not dressed in their best, she wanted them to take their cousins into the gardens and let them run around.

The first carriage, the larger of the two, must contain Jane and children. Why there had been a necessity to bring a second, she had no idea. It was possible, of course, that the governess and servants were travelling separately. Normally her brother made the servants and the baggage travel in a cart. She had been surprised they had not arrived the previous day.

Two footmen let down the steps and opened the door. Jane descended, but instead of the four children tumbling out behind her someone else stepped down. What was
he
doing here? How dared he show his face at Blakeley after he had tried to murder her husband? What mischief was he planning now? Thank God Alex was away from home and out of harm’s way.

Her brother glanced in her direction. His smile did not reach his eyes.

The children jumped out of the second carriage, accompanied by Betty and Mary. Their exuberance more than made up for the lack of enthusiasm her sister-in-law displayed. Of Miss Smithson there was no sign.

Eleanor gave what she hoped was a welcoming smile to Jane, ignored her brother, and ran to greet her nephews and niece.

“My word, Aunt Eleanor, this is a splendid place. It must be twice the size of Tendring Hall.”

“I believe Blakeley is at least that, Ned.” She refrained from embracing him; he appeared to have grown several inches and matured beyond his years in the three months since she’d seen him. There was a wary look in his eyes she recognized. He was taking the brunt of the beatings since she’d left.

Amanda threw herself into her arms, sending Alexander flying. “Sweetheart, be careful, you have knocked your cousin over. Here, Alexander, let me help you up.” With one arm around her niece, Eleanor offered her hand to her son.

He grinned. “I’m all right, I like this little girl. Has she come to be my friend?”

“Yes she has, my love. There, brush down your breeches and bow like a gentleman.”

She smiled as Amanda curtsied awkwardly and he bowed. Introductions over and protocol forgotten, he grabbed Amanda’s hand.

“Come with me, little girl. I am going to lose you in the garden.” Squealing with delight Amanda allowed herself to be dragged off, hotly pursued by Mary. When the other children had made their bows Eleanor spoke quietly to Betty.

“I shall come up to the nursery later and talk to you. Betty, I am so glad to see you here. By the by, where is the governess? I expected her to be with you.”

Betty curtsied and nodded, glancing nervously over her shoulder at Lord Thorrington. “She said she had the toothache. She’s supposed to join us when she’s had it pulled.”

Daisy appeared from the nursery. “Shall I go with the children, my lady? Or shall I oversee the unpacking?”

“Daisy, you can stay out here and get to know Betty; the unpacking can be left to the juniors, there are enough of them after all. Lucy and Elizabeth, take the boys down to the lake. Show Jonathan and Peter the gardens afterwards.”

Her oldest nephew was standing diffidently to one side. “Ned, my dear, I have arranged for the falconer to come and show you how to fly a bird of prey. However, he will not be here until tomorrow morning. Could I prevail upon you to act as guardian to the little ones until then? I wish to catch up with your mama.”

His eyes lit up. For the first time since his arrival the boy she had left reappeared. “That would be splendid, Aunt Eleanor. Thank you so much. Of course I should be delighted to take care of the children in your absence.” He squared his shoulders and marched off behind the others, very much a young adult in authority.

All this had taken barely five minutes, but it was too long. She knew her brother would be angry at being overlooked. Her stomach roiled, familiar fear threatened to swamp her, but she pushed it back. She was no longer under her brother’s control. She was mistress here, could keep him waiting if she pleased. That was her prerogative

She spun and walked briskly to greet her visitors. “Jane, I am so glad to see
you
at Blakeley Hall.” She glanced at her brother disdainfully. “However, I am surprised to see
you
here, Edward. I had thought you away on business this week.” That was nonsense and they both knew it

Jane sensed Eleanor was now her protector and moved closer. Edward nodded, his lips thin, his eyes angry.

“I had thought to see for myself how my only sibling has settled herself. As I was not privileged to attend your nuptials, Eleanor, it’s only right that, as your former guardian, I should reassure myself you are being well looked after.”

“That is kind of you, my lord. As you can see, I am blooming. I shall have you shown to your apartments. There will be a light luncheon served in the breakfast parlour at noon. We dine at six o’clock; my husband prefers to keep town hours even when in the country.”

She had acquitted herself well. He could not have known how nervous she was. Linking her arm through Jane’s, she squeezed it reassuringly.

“Come along, Jane, we have so much gossip to catch up on. You must tell me every little thing your children have been doing since I have been gone and I shall bore you with accounts of the wonders my own have accomplished.”

Her drollery made her sister smile, but she had a nervous air as they walked across the bridge and into the small courtyard.

“This is a magnificent house, Eleanor. I’m so glad you have found such a lovely home.”

Her brother was staring around at the edifice, by the rigidity of his shoulders he was not best pleased see Blakeley was more likely four times the size of his own mansion.

“I have put you in the guest rooms closest to me, Jane. Bentley is away all week so we can spend every moment together, if that is what you would like.”

“And my husband, where is he to go?”

“He will be at the far side of the house, in the royal suite, he cannot complain that he isn’t being shown the utmost respect.”

Sydney appeared and Eleanor spoke to him. “Lord Thorrington has unexpectedly joined us. Would you have the Royal Suite prepared for him? Lady Thorrington shall remain where she is.”

The butler snapped his fingers, sending minions scurrying in all directions to do his bidding.

“Edward, there is a billiard room; a footman will take you if that is what you would like to do. If you should care to ride, there are a dozen hunters up to your weight in the stables.” She was not going to offer him access to the gun room. “Also there are fishing rods available, and trout in the lake if you should wish to spend your time in such a gentle pursuit.”

He scowled. “When is Bentley coming back? I particularly wish to meet him.”

Eleanor shivered, her hands clenched. There was menace behind his words.

“If my husband had known you were to accompany my sister and the children I’m sure he would have made every effort to rearrange his appointments. However, as neither of us knew you were to honour us with your presence, brother, he is detained in Town until after your departure.”

He shrugged as if it meant little to him either way. “No matter, I shall, no doubt, meet him at some function in the future. You’ve fallen on your feet here, Eleanor. I wonder how you achieved that?”

Could he possibly know her secret? No one, apart from the children and their nanny, were aware of what had happened at the Abbey. Had he beaten the information out of Ned? Was that another reason the boy was on edge and looking so thin and strained?

There was no time to worry about such matters, she must remove Jane to her apartment, and discover if her fears about Ned were correct. Amidst a flurry of maids, footmen and trunks she led her sister-in-law upstairs. Eleanor closed the door on the bustle in the corridor. “Sit down with me, Jane, you’re shaking like a leaf. Has it been very bad since I went?”

To her consternation, Jane burst into noisy sobs. In all the time she had known her, she had never seen her sister cry. She had heard her in the privacy of her chambers many times, but this was the first time Jane had let down her guard in her presence.

“You cannot believe how dreadful it has been without you, Eleanor. Matters have been a little better since he appointed the governess, Miss Smithson. Unfortunately she has been obliged to remain behind. I hope it was sufficient to bring Betty and Mary? The children don’t need to continue with lessons this week; it can be considered a holiday.”

“I noticed Ned has lost weight. Admittedly he has grown taller, but I don’t like to see him pale and worried looking. Tell me, is he being mistreated now?”

Jane nodded miserably. “Thorrington blames him for your departure; this is irrational and unfair, but it was ever thus. I keep the children away from their father as much as possible and he has been absent in Town a few times, thank God. When he’s home, however, he seems to delight in abusing my poor Ned.”

“The man’s a monster! You must remain here. This is a huge establishment and you could have your own apartments. We would hardly know you were here.”

Jane sniffed and blew her nose. “That is kind of you, dearest Eleanor. I cannot. I am bound to him by law. If I remained he would take the children away from me; I could not let him do that.” She smiled. “I must apologize for not warning you he was coming. I had no idea myself until he got in the carriage with me. I can’t think why he wanted to come, he knows you’re content as he reads all your letters.”

Eleanor was tempted to tell her sister-in-law the real reason her brother had come to Blakeley. There was no point in alarming her further. Jane was miserable enough as it was, without knowing her husband was a potential murderer.

She closed her eyes in shock. Was there a taint in Thorrington blood? After all she had almost killed Alex. She must push these evil thoughts aside. “It will be a relief for you when the boys go to school next week. At least away from home they will be safe.”

“Thorrington has been even stranger lately. He has been prowling around the estate these past ten days. There’s something gnawing at his very soul. His manservant has left him, and another outside man has gone as well. The valet he brought with him was only appointed last week.” Jane shuddered dramatically. “I don’t like this man at all, he’s even worse than Hudson. His eyes are set too close together, and he has a shifty way of looking at one; as if he knows things that I do not.”

“Presumably he was the small man travelling on the box?”

“Thorrington refused to allow my maid in the coach with us, so I refused to have his man inside. Either the valet had to travel outside or stay home. My abigail was forced to remain at Tendring Manor. I hope I can borrow your girl whilst I’m with you?”

“There’s no necessity for us to share, Jane. I have a plethora of young girls all eager to show me their skills.” She leant over to ring a little brass bell on the table. When Sydney arrived, she smiled. “Lady Thorrington has been obliged to leave her abigail behind. Ask the housekeeper to send someone suitable to her apartment.”

The next hour passed pleasantly enough. Eleanor took Jane on a tour of the main part of the house and then up to the nursery to show her where the children were sleeping. “I, too, must appoint a governess for the girls, Alex does not wish
me
to teach them.” The shock on Jane’s face was comical. “I know, it’s most unconventional, but he insists that I use his given name. As I was saying, he does not like me to spend as much time in the school room as I want. I have a list of suitable candidates to invite for interviews shortly. I shall oversee the children and they will spend the afternoons with me, but the mornings shall be given over to someone else.”

Jane admired everything she saw, especially the long gallery filled with books. “I have never seen so many volumes in one place, Eleanor. I can’t imagine one person could ever read all these.”

“I am working my way along the shelves, there is gold among the dross. I am never without something interesting to peruse.” Not that she had much time for reading since last week.

Her brother failed to appear at luncheon, which was a relief to everyone. The children, as a special treat, were allowed to eat downstairs. They spent a noisy, happy hour and even Ned seemed more relaxed. “Ned, if you should care to ride, please take my hack out. She’s the dappled grey, sweet-natured but loves to gallop and jump. She will be exactly right for someone of your size.”

He grinned. “I’ve seen her, Aunt Eleanor. She’s beautiful. Can I go out after luncheon, Mama? I shall stay on the park; there is so much to explore.”

Eleanor waited for Jonathan and Peter to complain at being excluded from the treat but they were too busy planning a swim in the lake with the others to worry about their older brother’s activities.

“A groom must accompany you. He can make sure you don’t get lost. I should hate to have to send out search parties.”

Dinner was a chilly affair, her brother barely said a word, Jane was subdued and Eleanor had little inclination for small talk. The meal was excellent, but she ate little of it. With considerable relief she left the table and led Jane into the drawing-room. As soon as they were out of earshot, she changed direction and guided her sister-in-law toward the staircase.

“Jane, let’s go upstairs, we can have tea there. I’ve no wish to spend the evening with my brother.”

“What about Thorrington? What shall he do on his own?”

Eleanor had no idea and cared less. With luck he would become bored without male company and take one of the carriages and return to Tendring Manor. Failing that, as long as he remained away from her and the children for the duration of his visit she would be sanguine.

The pattern of their days was repeated. The children became brown as berries. Ned, free from the tyranny of his father, became a boy again and learnt to fly a peregrine. When he wasn’t riding Silver, he was swimming in the lake with the other children.

After five days the weather broke, torrential rain replacing the summer sunshine. The children moved their games inside. In order to occupy them Eleanor set up a treasure trail for the children to follow. Even her eldest nephew agreed to join in the hunt.