Grace widened her eyes. It was her worst nightmare that one of her sisters would elope. “Do you know who they are?”
Pouring them both a glass of wine, he handed one to her. “No, your uncle didn’t ask.” His lips thinned. “I don’t doubt we’ll hear about it this evening, unless they’ve been successful keeping it quiet. I only hope Louisa and Charlotte don’t decide it’s romantic.”
Rubbing her suddenly tense neck, Grace said, “I can only pray that I’ve done a good enough job of instilling in her the impropriety and danger of a runaway marriage.” She took a sip of wine. “It would amaze me if it has been successfully hushed up. Those types of things tend to get out.” She glanced at Matt. “As sad as it is, that should eclipse our rushed marriage.”
He set his glass down and put an arm around her. “Grace, I’ve sent a message to both of our solicitors. The guardianship application will be filed immediately after the wedding.”
She leaned into his strength and warmth. “Uncle Herndon will help.”
Nuzzling her, he grinned. “I think he’s already made plans to talk to one of the law lords.”
“Now what is the secret about Jane’s friend?”
“It is a he. A Mr. Hector Addison. They will also be marrying shortly.”
“Never tell me he is the one she loved all those years ago?” Grace gasped, and had to stop herself from dancing a jig.
“The very same, from what I can gather.”
“But I thought he’d died at sea.”
“He sailed off to India and recently returned.”
She threw her arms around Matt. “This is such good news. You don’t know how worried I’ve been about her!”
“Believe me, I had a fair idea.” Matt kissed her soundly. “I know you won’t rest until you’ve met him.”
“What is he like?”
“He is jovial, and, from the way he looks at Jane, very much in love.”
“You’d better tell me everything you know, so that I won’t discomfit them with too many questions.”
“I don’t know much.” Matt held her hand as they ambled down the corridor. “They have found a house not far from here, and, from their plans to purchase a country estate as well, I believe him to be quite warm. As to embarrassing him, wait until he meets the children.”
* * *
Molton allowed Jem into his rooms and gave him a towel.
“I stayed until the rain come. Weren’t nothin’ going on ’cept for this morning. That rum mort went across to the swell’s house just after I got back.”
“Did you see her leave?”
“She left wi’ him in a rattler. Woulda followed but there were a fart catcher on the back.”
“I see. It appears my niece has taken a lover.” Molton rubbed his chin. “The court won’t like that. Where did you say the gentleman’s house was?”
“Direct across the square. Ye want me to go back?”
Edgar ambled to the fireplace. “No, I’ll need someone who can act as a witness.” He dug in his pocket. “Here’s the rest of your money and a bonus.”
The lad’s face lit up. “Coo, guv’nor. Anytime ye needs somethin’ ye call for me.”
“Yes, thank you, I will.” Edgar smiled to himself. It wouldn’t be long before he’d not be in need of anything. Women really weren’t very intelligent. He’d be interested to know who this lover was. Berkeley Square had never been one of his haunts.
After Jem left and the rain let up, Molton shrugged on his greatcoat, donned a beaver hat, and took up his cane. He made his way to the nearest lending library and found an old copy ofDebrett’s. Shortly thereafter, Molton had his answer. Very indiscreet of them. A plan started to form in his mind. He could blackmail both his niece and Lord Worthington for a tidy sum.
A few blocks away from the library, he saw a sign announcingHARVEY COMBS, INVESTIGATOR.Exactly the type of person Edgar was looking for. Entering the building, he climbed the stairs to the second floor, knocked, and went in.
