Chapter 15
Alight breeze floated in throughthe open window while Miles was in Lord Fleming’s study discussing an investment idea. “This is more of a long-term investment,” he explained, “to build on your wealth for the future.”
“How long before I see any dividends from this?” Fleming asked.
“Probably close to a year, I’m afraid. There are no easy answers or quick fixes when it comes to investing. One must be diligent in one’s oversight. That’s how to build wealth.”
“I understand. I trust your judgment and would like to move forward with this investment. The income from the estate covers the expenses and still yields a small profit, and I believe it’s imperative that I think about building long-term capital.”
A knock on the study door interrupted their conversation before Miles could explain the next steps.
“Come,” Fleming said.
Carlton entered carrying a silver salver. “Mr. Walker, this letter just arrived for you.”
Miles stood and took the letter, recognizing Noah’s handwriting. “Thank goodness. It’s from Mr. Hughes.” He tore open the seal and read the contents.
“How is his uncle?” Fleming asked.
Miles shook his head. “I’m afraid the news is dire. The viscount has also perished. Fleming, I regret that I must leaveimmediately and go to my friend. I shall return to advise you further on your investments as soon as I’m able.”
Fleming waved him off. “No need to worry about that. It can wait. You must go to your friend. Please give him our sincere condolences.”
“I will,” Miles said before he rushed out of the room. He ran up the stairs and raced down the hallway to his bedchamber, but before he reached the door, he heard his name called. He turned to see Emma coming down the hallway.
“Mr. Walker, you look distressed. Are you well?”
“No, unfortunately, I’m not, Miss Bent. I’ve just received word from Mr. Hughes. Now, his uncle has also died from a fever. I must go to him immediately.”
Emma squeezed his arm. “Oh, no!” What a tragic turn of events. I’m so very sorry to hear that. Please give Mr. Hughes my deepest sympathies.”
“I will. Now if you’ll excuse me, I must pack a bag.”
“I’ll ask Carlton to inform the stablemaster you need to leave and also have Cook pack a food sack for your journey.”
“Thank you, Miss Bent. That’s very thoughtful,” Miles said. “I will return as soon as I can.”
“I will miss you. I hope you can offer some comfort to your friend,” she said, turning around and hurrying down the hallway to find the butler.
“I will miss you too,” Miles whispered as he entered his bedchamber and pulled his valise out of the armoire. He packed enough clothes for a fortnight. He couldn’t begin to imagine how Noah was faring. He knew his uncle and cousin were Noah’s last remaining relatives and he adored them. His grief must be immense.
By the time Miles reached the stables, Vulcan was saddled, and the groom was tying the sack of food to the back of the saddle.
“There. You’re all set, Mr. Walker,” the groom said.
Miles vaulted into the saddle. He had no time to waste. He knew he’d miss the funeral, but he wanted to be with Noah as he navigated putting the estate’s affairs in order. Having a number of years of experience running a profitable estate under his belt—although his small estate paled in comparison to the viscount’s holdings—he felt confident he could help Noah. He knew his friend would welcome his advice, especially since Noah had no experience with estate management.
As Miles thought about the situation, he realized Noah was a viscount now—a member of the aristocracy. Would that change their relationship?
He didn’t think so. Both he and Noah had been friends with the Earl of Robertson since their school years, and Noah had never been envious of the earl’s rank, but then again, joining the aristocracy had never been an option before. It would be a challenging journey for Noah, to say the least.
That made Miles wonder about his own future. Did he want to be a bachelor for the rest of his life? He’d thought he did… until he met Emma Bent. Without realizing when it happened, he was nonetheless falling hard for the green-eyed beauty. She was so easy to talk to, and he enjoyed her company immensely. Despite his lack of a title, he was considered an eligible bachelor, with his considerable wealth, good breeding, and family’s ancient lineage. Perhaps it was time for him to change the direction of his life and take a wife.
The fact that Emma didn’t particularly enjoy London made her even more desirable to him. Miles wasn’t that fond of London either, although he did enjoy the camaraderie of his friends while he was in Town.
He needed to think more about asking Emma to be his wife, but his first priority was getting to Noah. After traveling for most of the day, Miles stopped at a cozy inn with the intentionof inquiring about a room for the night. He was exhausted, and Vulcan needed to rest as well. His horse was a beast and had performed well on the road, but even the strongest horse needed to rest and eat.
He dismounted, and a groom appeared.
