When only Elizabeth and her aunt remained in the room, Mrs Gardiner pressed her for more details. “Are you quite sure Jane wishes to leave with you? She had not seemed enamoured with the idea of being in Mayfair.”
“It was her idea, Aunt. She is concerned about the safety of everyone here should we remain.” Her chin lifted and forestalled her aunt’s reply. “And I agree with her.”
Mrs Gardiner tsked, but she recognised her niece’s intractability and accepted her decision. She excused herself to speak with the servants below stairs, leaving Elizabeth alone, awaiting a summons to join Mr Gardiner’s meeting.
Chapter 26
Mr Darcy and Dumfries had been shown into Gardiner’s home office. At Gardiner’s entrance, Darcy made the introductions and explained what it was Dumfries did for a living. “His men have experience protecting people from threats. Not so dissimilar to what Mrs Carrington and Alex are facing.”
The men all took seats at Gardiner’s indication. He now scrutinized Dumfries, the man whom Gardiner was now meant to trust with his relations’ safety. “You are aware we have little information about the threat?”
“Yes, sir. It would be best to have as many men as possible guarding the widow and earl, but it is my opinion we include Mrs Carrington in our talks. This all impacts her most of all.”
“One would think you have already met our Lizzy.” Gardiner chuckled softly. “A moment, gentlemen.” He stood and walked to the door and stepped out into the hallway. Half a minute later he was back “She shall join us momentarily. May I offer either of you a drink?”
Both men declined and then a knock softly sounded on the door. “Come in, Lizzy.”
Darcy and Dumfries rose and offered her bows at her entry.
Elizabeth smiled at Darcy, “Good evening, sir.” She curtseyed.
“This is my niece, Mrs Elizabeth Carrington. Lizzy, this is Mr Dumfries.”
“Just Dumfries, sir.”
“Dumfries, then. Mr Darcy has introduced him as someone who specializes in protecting those under threat of danger.”
She looked at Darcy a long moment with one raised quizzical eyebrow, then she refocused on Dumfries and curtseyed. “I am pleased to meet you, Dumfries. I take it you are aware of the recent events concerning the Carrington family?” She moved to take a seat and all the men sat once she did.
“Mr Darcy explained the situation, Mrs Carrington.”
“Did he, indeed?” Again her brow rose as she cast another glance in Darcy’s direction. “And you feel able to deal with this challenge?” Elizabeth had taken note of his missing hand, but also of the coiled energy emanating from the man.
“Yes, Ma’am. We have been hired under similar circumstances before. Well, perhaps not in regard to a babe, but the protection is the same.”
She nodded and looked at her uncle.
He in turn looked at Dumfries. “Where should you like to begin?”
Taking a moment to look at both Gardiner and Elizabeth, Dumfries bluntly asked, “Is there anywhere else you can live that is not Cheapside?”
“Dumfries.” Darcy’s retort was disapproving.
“We spoke about this, sir. Cheapside places too many people unnecessarily in danger.”
“Yes.” Elizabeth interjected before either her uncle or Darcy could speak again. “My sister and I discussed moving to Carrington House tomorrow.”
“Lizzy.” Gardiner’s impatience showed in his tone.
“Uncle.” She responded back.
“Where is the townhouse?” Dumfries eyes were narrowed on Elizabeth.
“In Mayfair.”
“Then, it has open space surrounding it?” His approval was evident.
“We did not examine much of the outside, but if I recall correctly, it was not connected on either side to any other building.”
