The Sanctuary (A Spencer Novel) (10 page)

Chapter 16

“Is this a bad time?”

Anthony smiled at the man leaning against the doorjamb, his arms full of ledgers.

“Jason, I’m glad you’re back. Did you enjoy your holiday?”

Jason Rutledge pushed away from the doorframe and came forward. “Two weeks is much too long to be in the company of my mother and sisters, especially with matrimony, mine to be exact, on their collective minds.”

Anthony chuckled. “At it again, are they?”

“Still. I believe it to be their primary occupation of late.” Jason placed the ledgers on the desk and took the chair across from Anthony’s.

“We’ve a lot to discuss. Quite a bit happened during the last week.” Anthony moved a stack of papers to the side.

“So I surmise. I noticed Gerald leaving. Need I ask what he wanted?”

“It’s always the same.” Anthony offered a wry shrug.

Jason’s knowledge of the Harding business dealings was as comprehensive as Anthony’s. Fresh from Cambridge, Jason had approached him for a position. A genius at managing figures, Jason was exactly who Anthony needed to help with his new and struggling enterprise.

Where Anthony was gifted at commerce and investments, he had little time to maintain financial records. Jason, on the other hand, was brilliant at handling the complicated documents and ledgers for Anthony’s various factories and ventures. So they struck a deal. Anthony would supply Jason with a place to live, food to eat, and a percentage of the net profits from the fledgling company. In the years they’d been together, he’d made Jason a rich man.

Two hours later, they’d labored through the accounts and anything of note regarding the factories. With the stack of papers requiring his signature out of the way, and instructions given concerning possible new investments, Anthony leaned back and viewed his secretary-cum-business partner.

“I need to advise you of something.” While Jason listened, Anthony described the happenings of the previous week.

Jason blew out a breath. “I gather you believe whoever is trying to kill Mrs. Griffin will follow you?”

“I’m certain of it. I won’t risk her life by staying here. Since I don’t know how long I’ll be at Harding Hall, it may be necessary for you to commute.”

Jason stretched his legs out before him. “Do I sense an interest in Mrs. Griffin?”

“She is a woman who needs my help. Must it be anything more?”

“It needn’t be, but I believe it is.”

During the years they’d worked together, the two had become friends. Anthony tapped his pen on the blotter a few times while he decided how to respond. “It’s more than an interest, but I don’t know where it will lead.”

Jason nodded. “You say she’s Lord Longhaven’s cousin?”

“Yes, and he’s none too happy about my involvement.”

“In his position, I cannot say I blame him.”

Anthony’s frown brought a smile to Jason’s face.

“You must admit,” Jason added, “you’ve shown no inclination to marry. She’s hardly the type for a liaison, widowed or not.”

“Are you finished?”

Jason’s smile widened to an outright grin. “It would seem I am.” He stood and began gathering the account books and stacks of paper. “Is she aware of the children’s home you sponsor or of your other philanthropic endeavors?”

Anthony rose but remained silent.

Jason stopped shuffling papers. “I take it she isn’t. It wouldn’t hurt your cause if she knew of it and the other charities.”

“What I do in that regard shouldn’t matter.”

“You’re right, it shouldn’t, but often it does.” Jason settled the ledgers in his arms. “I’ll take care of these things and meet with you again before you leave.” He hesitated. “If you need anything . . .”

Anthony nodded.

“You fool!” A man in a heavy woolen coat strode back and forth in a tiny upstairs flat near the wharf. “The woman is still alive. Twice you’ve failed. Must I do it myself?”

His gaze swung to the only other person in the room, a hulk of a man not in the least afraid of his display of anger.

“I hit her, didn’t I? Weren’t my fault the nob called out like he did. Lucky bloke, that,” the heavier of the two men said.

The first man continued to pace. “Luck? Luck has nothing to do with it. Harding makes his own damned luck. He’s become a complication and I want him dealt with.”

“I didn’t sign on ta murder no toff.” The second man frowned and fingered the scar on his cheek.

“What’s the difference? If we’re caught, if the bitch identifies us, we’ll both dance in the wind for our trouble.”

“I’m the bloke she saw. I’m the one what placed me life on the line and what ‘av I seen fer me troubles?”

“You’ll get your money. If you want to live to spend it, I suggest you finish the job, and quickly.” The first man raised the collar on his great coat, pulled his hat lower on his forehead, and yanked the door open. “See to it.”

Chapter 17

During the following days, Clairece’s strength slowly returned. Not so her patience. Once the stitches were removed, she persuaded Dr. Farris to dispense with the bindings around her ribs so she might have a proper bath.

The warm water had eased some of the stiffness, but the pain radiating through her body made walking a misery.

She checked the abrasions on her palm and elbow. They were healing nicely, as was the cut near her hairline. She glanced in the mirror and groaned. The bruising was still horrendous. Some places resembled nothing short of an eggplant.

Clairece carefully stepped into the bedroom, stopping to grasp the bedpost for support. Daisy rushed forward, the nightgown she’d withdrawn from the clothespress forgotten.

“Oh, ma’am, why didn’t you ring for me?” The maid slipped her arm around Clairece’s waist and helped her to the vanity chair.

“I thought I could do it myself.”

Daisy eased the sleeveless garment over Clairece’s head. Winter or not, the thought of heavier clothing made Clairece feel ill. She draped a woolen shawl around her shoulders and studied her reflection in the mirror, gently touching the discoloration on her cheek. No amount of powder would cover the damage.

A missive from James had arrived stating his intention to stop for a visit. Aware Phillip was back in town and would most likely come as well, Clairece waited nervously to discover if James had shared their previous conversation with their young cousin.

With Daisy’s help, Clairece moved to the sitting room adjoining the bedchamber. An assortment of fruits, cheeses, just-baked bread, and a bowl of asparagus bisque waited on a tray before the settee.

Clairece settled onto the deep cushions and spread the napkin across her lap. The food looked and smelled delicious. Picking up the spoon, she tasted the soup. Her eyes drifted closed in appreciation.

She tore a piece from the warm loaf and spread fresh butter across the portion. Even the small bite caused her jaw to ache. After a few spoonsful of the rich consommé, she heard the sound of men’s voices from below and set her food aside.

Hodges appeared. “Lord Longhaven and Lord Phillip Spencer, madam.”

“Thank you, Hodges.” Clairece secured the shawl firmly around her shoulders as her cousins entered and came directly to her side.

Phillip dropped to one knee in front of her. “James told me what happened. I was at Windsford meeting with the land agent and tenants, and only this moment returned. How are you?”

“I’m better, though there are few places on my body I can touch or move without pain.” As she took his hand, the woolen shawl slipped down her arms.

Phillip sucked in a breath, his gaze traveling over her shoulder and arms. “My God! It’s
a wonder you weren’t killed.”

Clairece eased the shawl back in place. “It appears worse than it is.” She glanced over Phillip’s head at James and raised a questioning brow. James gave a barely discernible shake of his head. “Would either of you care for tea or coffee?” she offered.

James pulled up a chair and sat. “We won’t stay long, my dear. We don’t wish to tire you. I sent a wire to your father and Uncle Adrian.” At her startled gasp, he hushed her. “They needed to know, and it was my duty to inform them.”

She swallowed. “What did you tell them?”

“I told them we’d misjudged the reason for your trip and your life was in danger.”

“Misjudged?” Her heart thumped in her chest.

James sighed. “I wanted to believe your sudden desire to visit was to spend time with us, but suspected there was something more.”

“I see.” She stared at her clenched hands.

James continued. “For that reason, and because you both share an interest in antiquities, I asked Tony to help you in any way he could.”

A band tightened around her chest and her throat constricted. She’d been a fool. She’d glibly fallen in with Anthony’s plans and asked him to help. Clairece swallowed against the pain. “Anthony saved my life twice, so your trust was well placed. However, as soon as I’m able, I’ll move back into Aunt Angeline’s home for the duration of my stay.”

“No, you will not.” Anthony spoke from the doorway.

Her head snapped up, tears blurring her vision. “I just learned your willingness to help me was a favor to James. I won’t inconvenience you any further. Your services are no longer required.”

Anthony cursed. In a few, swift, strides, he crossed the room. “Like hell they’re not. You’re not going anywhere, at least not without me.”

Phillip drew in an outraged breath and sprang to his feet. “You cannot keep Clairece here against her will, Tony. If she wishes to leave—”

“She will stay with me,” James interrupted smoothly, rising to face Anthony.

“Don’t do this,” Anthony growled, stepping toward James.

“Enough!” Clairece shouted. “I will hear no more of your manly bickering while you decide what is to be done with me. What I do is my choice, and mine alone.”

James and Phillip gaped in surprise while Anthony, his expression resembling nothing short of a thundercloud, stood with his hands balled at his sides.

“Sit down, all of you. I won’t have you towering over me.” All three men remained rooted to the spot. “I. Said. Sit,” she ordered.

They sat.

“Now, please remain silent while I explain a few things. First and foremost, I’m almost twenty-five years of age, and I’m a widow. My late husband left me financially independent, and I have the dowry from my father Roger set aside for me. For the last two years, I’ve lived without benefit of family to tell me how it’s done. And, lest you forget, my home is in Philadelphia, a thriving metropolis full of all manner of people.”

The men began to mumble.

She cleared her throat.

The mumbling ceased.

“There are some significant facts you should understand about me. I enjoy certain freedoms I do not intend to relinquish.” Clairece flicked a sideways glance at Anthony. His eyes narrowed in response. “Whatever I choose to do, I need not ask permission first.”

The men glared at each other as she stated, “You’re correct in assuming my coming is connected to Roger’s death, but you’re vastly mistaken if you think I will let two attempts on my life deter me.” Clairece raised her hand as all three male voices rose in objection. “Obviously, I saw something which poses a danger to whoever stole the collar and killed Roger. However, those responsible
will
be brought to justice.”

“How? By using yourself as bait?” Anthony’s voice held deadly calm.

James and Phillip bounded to their feet and started to pace. She ventured a peek at Anthony and found him watching her, an ominous gleam in his eyes.

“Why didn’t they go after you in Philadelphia?” Phillip questioned.

Anthony spoke up. “Because they had no reason to consider her a threat. However, everything changed with the notice in the paper.”

Chapter 18

Anthony needed time to talk some sense into Clairece, or, barring that, he would happily throttle her. God only knew what she thought after James’ pronouncement, but he could venture a fair guess. Her eyes had shown hurt and betrayal, but she was wrong if she thought he would abandon her. He leaned closer and whispered, “We’re going to talk.”

“There’s no point,” she murmured.

“You think not?” He raised his voice. “Gentlemen, please take your seats.”

James and Phillip exchanged glances and sat.

“I visited
The Post
and learned most
personals
are left in a drop box with no name or direction. After this last attempt, I doubt there will be more messages. Inspector Stallings agreed to check ship passenger manifests for the months surrounding the theft of the collar. His men will watch for any name going to, and returning from, New York.”

The others nodded their approval.

“In the meantime, I would like to take Clairece to Sanctuary Park in Somerset. It’s on the coast between Portishead and Bristol. I suggest you both come along.”

James ran a hand over the back of his neck. “They’ll keep trying, won’t they?”

“Yes.” At Anthony’s response, a distinct humph came from the woman seated beside him. “If you agree on Harding Hall, I will have Dr. Farris examine her before we leave.”

James glanced from Clairece to Anthony. “As it happens, I concur with your taking her to Somerset. However, Phillip needs to return to Oxford, and I should wait here for her father and Uncle Adrian.”

“I haven’t said I’ll go,” Clairece mumbled.

Anthony swiveled toward her. “We are not giving you the choice. You will go.”

Once downstairs, Anthony pushed James up against a wall. “Have you run mad? I’ve never taken you for a fool, but if you destroy her trust in me, the cost might be her life.”

James swore and shoved back.

Anthony lowered his voice and pointed his finger in James’ face. “I realize placing her in further danger wasn’t your intent, but on her own, she doesn’t stand a chance.”

“I won’t allow her to be hurt by you, either,” James growled.

“What makes you certain I will hurt her?”

Phillip stepped between the two men. “What’s going on here?”

As the sound of men’s voices faded, Clairece shifted nervously on the settee. With each slow tread of Anthony’s boots up the stairs, she grew more agitated. If the gleam in his eyes was any indication, he was beyond angry.

The door to his bedchamber opened and closed. She heard him moving around. A few minutes later, Anthony entered the sitting room, locking the door behind him. In shirtsleeves and trousers, he advanced on her.

Clairece pressed back against the cushioned settee, her pulse racing. “What are you doing?”

Anthony opened the top two buttons of his shirt and rolled up his sleeves. “I suspect this will take some time. I intend to make myself comfortable.”

“It won’t take any time at all,” she retorted. Her breath hitched as he suddenly leaned forward, caging her between his outstretched arms.

“We have much to discuss, and we aren’t leaving this room until we do. Now, I remained quiet while you spoke and I expect you to show me the same courtesy. Agreed?” His warm, brandy-scented breath fanned her face. She closed her eyes and inhaled.

“Agreed?” he repeated.

Her eyes flashed open and she spared a short, “Fine.”

Anthony pulled up a chair and sat facing her, his knees bracketing hers.

“What are you—?”

“Hush, my turn.” He crossed his arms and leaned back. “Now, do you think I knew who you were on New Year’s Eve?”

“No.”

“You’re right. I thought you were a . . . gift. I’d planned to spend the night alone, but at the sound of your voice and the vision you made, I stopped thinking rationally.” His tone dropped to a soft purr. “I have never desired a woman as much as I do you.”

Clairece swallowed.

“James mentioned his concern for a cousin and, yes, he asked me to help. It was before we met. Since I possess an extensive knowledge of antiquities, it seemed a perfect solution. After you disappeared, I feared it would take weeks to find you. But there you were, at James’ house. Do you think me the type of man to betray a friend’s trust?”

She stared into his eyes. “No.”

His hand wrapped around hers. “I’ve had to fight for everything in my life. I don’t deny, I’ll use whatever means at my disposal to get what I want. James’ request was a perfect way to stay near you, to see if what I’d experienced was more than lust.”

“Don’t—” she began.

He silenced her with a finger against her lips. “The night I came to your house for dinner, I watched the way you were with James and Phillip, so playful and sweet, and all I wanted was time alone with you. After the incident in Hyde Park, I desired nothing more than to keep you safe. My reasons had nothing to do with my promise to James.

“Watching the carriage and team rushing toward you,” Anthony swallowed, “nearly destroyed me. I thought I’d lost you. To let you go back to your house alone would be tantamount to handing you over to them. Don’t ask it of me.”

“Anthony, I’m truly not your responsibility.” She squeezed his hand, trying to ease the sting of her words.

“I believe you know better.” At the look in his eyes, her heart began to pound.

“I had no idea intimacy could be so sweet, so tender.” Clairece peered at her hand, surrounded by his much larger palms. She lifted a finger and ran it over the dusting of black hair on his forearm.

“Stay with me, let me protect you.”

Clairece leaned forward, dreading what she must say. “Anthony, as soon as this is over and we find those responsible, I will return to Philadelphia and my life there.”