“There’s no need for thanks,” Peter said. “You are family and always welcome to reside here as long as you like.”
“Thank you. That’s very kind.”
“How long will you be gone?” Cecily asked with a slight pout.
“I don’t know. Perhaps a fortnight or so, maybe longer,” Bett said and saw Cecily frown before she smoothed her face. “Cecily, is there something amiss?”
She shook her head. “Not at all. I’ll miss our daily walks, that’s all.”
Her sister-in-law was young, but she’d grown in maturity a great deal over the past year. Cecily would be two and twenty by the time the babe was born and was probably quite nervous over the impending birth. “I promise to be back in plenty of time for the birth.”
“You will?”
“Of course. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
“Thank you, Bett. It relieves my mind, knowing I’ll have a friend with me.”
Peter grasped Cecily’s hand. “My darling, you mustn’t worry. The midwife will be readily available when the time comes.”
Cecily gazed lovingly at her husband. “I know, but I’ll feel better knowing Bett is with me too. She’s not only my sister-in-law but a dear friend as well.”
Bett stood. “Thank you, Cecily. I feel the same. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must tell Lydia of my plans to visit my sister.”
“When would you like to leave?” Peter asked. “The coach will be at your disposal, of course.”
“Thank you, Peter. Would two days be sufficient notice?”
“Of course. I’ll inform Adams of your plans. He’ll make sure everything is in order.”
“Thank you,” Bett said, exiting the drawing room. Going to see her sister was a much-needed distraction from merely sitting around waiting to hear from Mr. Hughes. Perhaps it was time to put her attraction to him aside and concentrate on enjoying her sister’s company.
She walked up the stairs and down the hall to her bedchamber. “Are you here, Lydia?” she asked when she entered.
“Yes,” came a voice from the dressing room before her lady’s maid popped her head out. “Do you require assistance, my lady?”
“Yes. My sister has invited me for a visit, so my trunk will need to be packed.”
“Of course. How long will you be staying?”
“I’m not sure. A fortnight, maybe, or a little longer.”
“I’ll see to your things. When are we leaving?”
“Day after next.”
“Very good, my lady. Leave everything to me,” Lydia said.
“Thank you, Lydia. You’re a godsend. I’d be lost without you.”
Her compliment brought a smile to the young woman’s face. Lydia had been her maid when she lived at her parents’ house. She’d been twenty when she married Stephen, and Lydia hadbeen more than happy to join her. They’d been inseparable ever since.
It had been Lydia, more than anyone else, who’d taken care of her during the trauma of losing Stephen and then their child. In her own quiet way, she had coaxed Bett out of her despair and helped her see that there was still joy left in the world. She would be forever grateful for her maid’s loyalty and service.
Chapter 3
After agreeing to go withMiles to the Fleming estate, Noah was in his bedchamber while his valet was packing the valise.
“Are you sure you don’t wish me to accompany you?” Searle asked.
