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Beatrice paused after Mr. Walker assisted her to alight from the carriage later that afternoon and stared up at his brother’s home with dismay. “My goodness.”
The mansion had the look of a Georgian villa and shouted wealth, with a three-story red brick exterior, wrought-iron garden fence and balconies. Just who was his brother to have a home like this? It was even nicer than Mr. Walker’s.
The imposing appearance made her even more nervous than she already was. When Mr. Walker had suggested she stay with his brother and sister-in-law instead of him, she’d been reluctant to agree. Something about her rescuer calmed her, but she understood and appreciated his concern about her reputation.
Mr. Walker followed her gaze as if seeing the house through her eyes. “They’ve made several improvements in the past year. Caroline, my sister-in-law, insisted on it.”
His amusement left Beatrice wondering what was behind his remark.
“There’s something I should mention,” he began as they walked toward the front steps. “My brother is the Earl of Aberland.”
Beatrice stopped short to stare at him. “An earl?” She glanced at her attire as a sinking sensation filled her. “Oh dear.”
“I’ve already informed Richard and Caroline of your situation. There’s no need to worry.”
If only that were true. She detested having to burden them by staying at their home even for a few days. Especially when she felt so overwhelmed by her circumstances and uncertain of what to do.
To think his brother and his wife were nobility was all the more intimidating. Especially when she was arriving in a borrowed gown without a penny to her name.
Her mother had been the daughter of a baron, but Beatrice had only met her grandfather once prior to his death and before her mother had passed. She’d met other members of the nobility during a ball hosted by the local lord near their village. But that had been a completely different set of circumstances than this.
The idea of asking for a stranger’s help when she couldn’t offer anything in return was concerning. She was used to being the one, along with her father, who offered assistance to others.
Yet she couldn’t bring herself to try another registry office. At least not until she felt more herself. Which meant she was walking through that imposing door with its gleaming brass knocker and taking advantage of whatever assistance the lord and lady were willing to provide. She’d do everything in her power to show how grateful she was and pray that was sufficient.
“They are both kind. I promise.” Mr. Walker’s smile eased her concern.
If she weren’t careful, she could easily become used to his calming presence, not to mention that charming smile. Why he hadn’t yet married was a puzzle to her.
The front door opened as they reached it, the butler smiling at Mr. Walker as he bid them to enter.
“Lord and Lady Aberland are in the drawing room awaiting your arrival, sir.”
“Excellent. Thank you, Dawson.” Mr. Walker offered his arm, and they followed the butler up the stairs.
The drawing room was a welcoming yet elegant mixture of white and bright yellow that brought in the sun, something often elusive in London from what she’d been told.
“Daniel. Good to see you as always.” The family resemblance between the Earl of Aberland and his brother was immediately evident. They both had the same lean face, narrow nose, and a square jaw. Both handsome, though Daniel’s features were less sharp and more welcoming in her opinion. While the earl had brown eyes, his younger brother’s hazel ones didn’t seem to miss any detail.
Lady Aberland was beautiful with pale hair, green eyes, and a warm, inviting expression. She and her husband made an attractive couple.
“Good afternoon.” Mr. Walker smiled at them both before turning to Beatrice, his steady regard easing her tension. “Allow me to introduce Miss Beatrice Linfield.”
Beatrice curtsied, all too aware of her borrowed gown and shoes, neither of which properly fit. But they were much better than the nightrail she’d worn when Mr. Walker had found her, and for that she was grateful.
To her surprise, the lady rose and walked forward to take her hands, her smile genuine. “Such a pleasure to meet you. I’m so sorry to hear of the trials you’ve endured since you arrived in London.”
“Thank you.” Beatrice’s worry lifted a fraction more. “It’s very kind of you to assist me.”
“Not at all.” Lady Aberland released her hand and turned to her husband. “We’re happy to help. Aren’t we, dear?”
“Of course.” The earl studied his brother for a long moment before his dark gaze returned to Beatrice, his expression difficult to discern.
“Please join us.” The lady gestured toward a chair and they all took a seat. “Daniel tells us you’re from Herefordshire.”
“Yes, my father served as vicar in Bromyard since before I was born. He passed away two months ago after falling ill.”
“Our condolences for your loss. And your mother?”
“She died when I was ten years of age.”
“You’re all alone now. That must be difficult. I can’t imagine.” Lady Aberland’s obvious empathy was unexpected. “Daniel has told us some of what happened, but would you share your story with us?”
Beatrice had already braced herself for the request. It was logical that they’d want to hear it. She would if she were them. If they were willing to help her find a position, telling them all that had occurred was the least she could do.
After a glance at Mr. Walker, who gave her one of his encouraging nods, she told them of her arrival in London and the events that followed. She found it much easier to look at Lady Aberland as she spoke. The earl’s expression was stoic, revealing little. Mr. Walker had already heard the tale twice.
She kept it as brief as possible, trying to keep her emotions under control as she spoke. Yet her voice trembled when she shared the brief time she’d spent in the brothel as well as her escape. Thoughts of Mary had her worrying once more about the woman.
“And then you came upon her as you were walking home from the club?” the earl asked his brother.
“Yes. I thought I was seeing a ghost at first.”
Beatrice appreciated his attempt at levity along with the smile he gave her as if they shared a secret.
“You must’ve been so frightened,” Lady Aberland suggested, her eyes wide.
“I was. But I’m grateful I managed to escape.” If only Mary had joined her. She looked at her rescuer. “And for Mr. Walker’s assistance.”
“Your message mentioned you contacted a Runner.” The earl glanced at his brother before looking back at Beatrice. “Was he of any assistance?”
“Unfortunately, he was less than encouraging.” Mr. Walker’s scowl described how Beatrice felt as well.
“I wasn’t able to provide enough details for him, I’m afraid.” Beatrice shook her head, wishing she knew more.
“I expected him to show more concern when he heard young women are being drugged and handed over to brothels upon arriving in London.” Mr. Walker rose and walked to the window to look out as if too restless to sit. “What is the country coming to when such things occur under our noses and the authorities don’t seem to care?”
“Surely your statement was enough to start an investigation.” The earl frowned as if also less than pleased at the news.
“He said he would despite his obvious misgivings,” Beatrice said. “At least one other woman was being held against her will. I hope he locates the place quickly.” How could she move forward with her life until she knew she’d done all she could to save Mary and any others who’d were held there?
The earl rose and turned to Daniel. “Would you care to join me in the library? We’ll leave the ladies to visit.”
“Of course.” He sent a questioning look at Beatrice. At her slight nod, he followed his brother out the door.
Beatrice watched him go, wishing he’d remained behind. She felt adrift, with no anchor, without his steady presence.
“He’s a wonderful man,” Lady Aberland said quietly as if sensing her feelings.
“He has been so kind. If he hadn’t come along when he did, I don’t know where I’d be right now.” Perhaps back at the brothel with an angry Mr. Finch. The thought caused her to shiver.
“Let us talk of the future instead of those terrible events. What was your hope when you arrived in London? What sort of position were you seeking?”
“I thought perhaps a governess. Though I don’t have experience, I did have a good education thanks to my father. But I would be happy with nearly anything. Especially now.” A wave of despair rolled over her. She had nothing to her name. Not even the meager possessions she’d arrived in London with. The future looked bleak, and she wasn’t quite certain how to go about fixing that.
Lady Aberland tapped a finger on her chin as she looked at Beatrice with an assessing look. “There’s another option you didn’t mention.”
“Oh? What might that be?”
“Find a husband.”
Beatrice could only stare at the lady in shock, uncertain whether she could’ve heard her correctly.
~*~
A HALF HOUR LATER, Daniel paced his brother’s library in frustration then paused to glare at his sister-in-law. “That’s a terrible idea.”
“Why?” Caroline asked, her gaze holding steadily on Daniel until he wanted to squirm. “Marriage to the right man seems like the perfect solution for Miss Linfield’s dilemma. Especially with us to guide her.”
If his brother had asked, Daniel could’ve given him a long list of reasons. But with Caroline staring at him, he couldn’t think of a single one. Except he already felt as if Beatrice had been taken from him. His protectiveness regarding her wellbeing was apparently proprietary as well. He realized too late that he wasn’t ready to share her, regardless of how ridiculous the notion was.
Beatrice had been shown to a guest bedchamber where she’d stay for the time being. Caroline said she was resting comfortably. While Daniel was pleased to have her reputation protected, he already missed her. He hadn’t even been able to bid her goodbye.
“She’s been through a traumatic experience.” Daniel latched onto the reason like a dog with a bone as he returned to his pacing. “Why would she even consider marrying at the moment?”
“Because it would certainly be better than becoming a servant. She’s a vicar’s daughter, and her grandfather was a baron. She’s well educated, attractive, and would make the right man a fine wife.”
“What did she say to the idea?” Daniel paused in his pacing to listen to the answer, ignoring the amused look on his brother’s face.
“She seemed startled by it, but said it was something she would consider.”
“So she doesn’t want to marry.” Daniel nodded. Good, he thought but kept the opinion to himself.
“How did you come to that conclusion?” Caroline frowned as if he made no sense. Perhaps he didn’t.
Daniel spun away, unable to explain his rationale. “Are you suggesting we give her a Season come the spring?”
“If necessary,” Caroline said. “However, several parties are being held in the coming weeks, despite it not being the height of the Season. Surely we can introduce her as a distant cousin or the like. We don’t need to mention her terrible experience.” Caroline paused briefly before asking, “Would you rather see her employed as a servant in someone’s home?”
“Of course not.” He didn’t like that idea either. “It just feels as if this is all being rushed. Shouldn’t we see the matter through with the authorities before making decisions about her future?”
“That goes without saying,” Richard said. “Miss Linfield needs time to recover and time to decide how she wants to proceed.”
“The poor thing seems exhausted,” Caroline added. “I hope she’s able to rest well here.”
“She’s still suffering from the ill effects of the drug they gave her.” Daniel ran his hand along the back of his neck as he thought again about what a close call she’d had. “I’m certain it will take another day or two before she feels more herself.”
“I wonder if I would’ve thought to jam something in the door lock to keep it from latching.” Caroline shook her head. “That was clever, and the fact that she thought of it while under the influence of whatever they gave her makes it even more impressive.”
“I have no doubt you would’ve gained your freedom much like Miss Linfield. You’ve already proved your resourcefulness.” Richard smiled at his wife then turned to Daniel. “From what she said, it sounds as if the registry office is involved in the scheme with the brothel owner.”
“At the very least, someone in the registry office is.” Daniel was certain of it. “Mr. Hurdy didn’t seem to think that clue was worth pursuing. But whoever advised her at the registry office might only single out the type of young women who would do well at the brothel and pass their information to the brothel owner.”
“What of the boarding house where she stayed?” Caroline asked. “It almost sounds as if someone there could be involved too. That seems to be where her memory grows confused.”
“Excellent point,” Daniel agreed. “These people have cast a wide web to catch unsuspecting young ladies.”
“I look forward to dismantling it as quickly as possible.” Richard held Daniel’s gaze, the steely glint of anger in his eyes visible.
“As do I.” Daniel was pleased his brother was outraged as much as he by Miss Linfield’s story.
But he also noted the worry in Caroline’s expression as she looked at Richard. No doubt she was even more concerned about Richard’s activities since he would soon become a father. Daniel needed to make certain Richard didn’t take any unnecessary risks. Based on the complexity of what they suspected, the situation wasn’t to be taken lightly. The scheme appeared to involve several individuals. Attempting to halt it could prove to be dangerous.
Hopefully, they wouldn’t have to involve Beatrice more than absolutely necessary. She’d already been through enough.
“Perhaps we should pay a visit to the registry office,” Richard suggested.
Caroline’s expression suggested she was less than pleased at the idea.
Daniel took a seat near his brother. “That also crossed my mind. However, I don’t think two gentlemen such as ourselves would be able to discover much when we clearly don’t belong there. If you don’t mind, I’ll see if Pierre is willing to help me find out more.”
Richard nodded, seemingly unaware of Caroline’s relief. “Very well. Let me know if I can assist in any way. At the very least, I could make inquiries with a few of my contacts to see if this Finch fellow is known.”
“That would be helpful. Any information we learn might give us an advantage.” While Daniel was grateful for his brother’s offer, this was something he wanted to do on his own as much as possible. Having Pierre assist him was one thing but having Richard do so crossed a line he couldn’t explain.
Caroline lifted a finger in the air to gain their attention. “Do I need to remind you both to be very careful? It goes without saying that these are dangerous criminals if they’re willing to drug young ladies and hold them against their will at a brothel.” She shook her head. “A life as a prostitute seems like no life at all. It’s terrible to think some women have no choice but to do so if they want to survive.”
Richard rose to take his wife’s hand in both of his. “I appreciate your concern. Nothing could make me risk losing the life we have together.”
“I’m pleased to hear that.” Caroline smiled at Richard, and the pair seemed to be saying something more to which Daniel wasn’t privy.
He felt like an intruder as they gazed into each other’s eyes adoringly. Their love was a palpable force that had only grown stronger since their marriage. They were fine individuals, and even better together, seeming to bring forth the best qualities in each other. He hoped to find someone like that someday. But no one he’d met thus far tempted him to take the leap from bachelor to husband.
As a second son, it didn’t matter if he married. He enjoyed women and not just in his bed. He liked looking at them, listening to them, and learning the way their minds worked. Marriage was nothing he’d considered with the ladies he’d encountered. A lifetime was a long period to spend with just one woman.
Caroline turned to raise a brow expectantly. “Daniel?”
“I promise to take care as well.”
“You’ll keep me apprised of the situation?” Richard asked.
“Of course.” Daniel would have to tread a fine line between telling his brother enough to satisfy his curiosity but not so much that he’d want to become more involved. He didn’t want to cause Caroline any worry. Especially since he’d already given her an unexpected guest.
“Excellent.” She nodded approvingly. “I believe I shall send a message to Margaret to see if she can call on the morrow to meet Miss Linfield.”
Caroline had two sisters. Margaret, the youngest, was unmarried, still lived at home, and had a talent for fashion. Annabelle was the middle sister, a successful author who penned mysteries under another name, and would soon be married to Thomas Raybourne, a man to whom Daniel had taken a liking.
“You think she and Miss Linfield might get on well together?” Daniel asked.
“I’m certain they will, but Margaret will also be able to advise us as to what style of gowns we should order for Miss Linfield. She’ll need several if she’s going to attend a few parties in addition to basic necessities.”
Daniel frowned. “I thought we agreed we weren’t going to rush into anything.”
“Gowns can take weeks to make. We must start now if we want them ready soon.” Caroline glanced at her husband. “I assume we have room in our budget for a few gowns for Miss Linfield, do we not?”
“Of course, my dear. Whatever you think is necessary.”
“And to think of all the years when you told me you had no funds.” Daniel shook his head, unable to resist teasing his brother.
“It worked in both our favors, did it not? We both invested well and our finances are much improved for it.”
“Yes, it did. I would be happy to also contribute to Miss Linfield’s new wardrobe.” The sooner she had something to wear other than the ill-fitting gown Mrs. Beverly had provided, the better. He looked forward to seeing her dressed as a woman of her beauty should be. He just didn’t care for the idea of parading her in front of London’s eligible bachelors.
“How exciting. I’ll make certain Miss Linfield is comfortable with our offer of a few gowns.” Caroline rose, her enjoyment at the task ahead of her evident.
“May I look in on her before I take my leave?” Daniel asked, aware of the odd look his brother cast him at the question. “I don’t want her to think I’ve abandoned her without bidding her goodbye.”
“Of course.” Caroline started out the door as Daniel turned to face Richard.
“Thank you for everything.” He held his brother’s gaze for a long moment. “Hearing how alone in the world Miss Linfield is makes me appreciate family even more than I did before.”
In a rare gesture of affection, Richard placed his hand on Daniel’s shoulder. “I couldn’t agree more. I like knowing you will come to my aid if I ask.”
Surprised, Daniel couldn’t help but smile. “You so rarely ask. At one point, I had begun to think you forgot you had a brother.”
“You never let me forget.” Richard smiled wryly. “I can’t tell you how much that means to me.”
Memories drifted through Daniel’s mind—the time he’d called on Richard when he’d heard of his betrothal, displeased that he’d learned of it from friends rather than his own brother. Yet there were other, more endearing memories too.
The time only a few weeks ago when Richard had called to advise him that he was going to be an uncle. And even a couple of months ago when Richard had asked for his assistance in confronting a man who’d taken one of Annabelle’s murder scenes and re-created it in real life.
“It is comforting to know we’re there for each other, isn’t it?” Daniel asked.
“More so now than ever.” Richard released his hold.
They both turned to the door to see Caroline standing there with tears in her eyes.
“What is it?” Richard asked, striding toward her in alarm.
Caroline patted her chest. “The two of you warm my heart. I adore you both.”
Daniel’s heart squeezed at her words as Richard drew her into his arms.
“We adore you as well.” Richard looked pointedly at Daniel.
“Indeed, we do,” he quickly added. Her tears made him nervous and by the slightly panicked expression on his brother’s face, he felt the same.
Caroline waved a hand in front of her eyes as if to dry her tears. “Don’t mind me. I tend to be overly emotional these days.”
Daniel didn’t envy his brother the challenge of facing those tears on a regular basis. Miss Linfield’s had been difficult enough to bear and he didn’t know her well. He just hoped it was within his power to keep her from shedding any more.
