The head of something that resembled a cat peeked into the parlor, then quickly ducked back. “What was that?”
Eugénie glanced at him as if he was mad. “What?”
“A gray thing.”
She jumped off his lap. “Probably my cat, Penelope. She does not like strangers. Once she becomes used to you, she is very affectionate. Come, we should tell the others.”
“Miss, come quickly!” Marisole, who’d left the room, ran back in, beckoning urgently.
Will followed Eugénie onto the terrace and to a long building which held the servants’ quarters. Her maid opened the door to one of the rooms. Inside, a black girl who couldn’t have been more than fourteen or so, paced, holding a small, fussy baby.
“When did she arrive?” Eugénie asked in a businesslike tone.
“Just a few minutes ago.” Marisole led the girl to a chair, pressing a glass of water into her hand. “I’ve sent for food.”
“Has anyone contacted the captain?”
The maid shook her head. “I do not know. This was quite sudden.”
The girl must have noticed Will for the first time, because she gave a start. He gave her an encouraging smile. He’d known of his great-uncle’s activities in helping free slaves, but not that Eugénie was involved. Though it shouldn’t have surprised him. Still, he didn’t like the danger it presented to her. “How can I help?”
His betrothed glanced up, her brows drawn together, chewing her bottom lip. “I must ensure the girl has a place to go, then a safe way to get to the harbor.”
“If she can remain here overnight, she could come with us tomorrow.”
Eugénie rubbed her forehead. “No, she must leave as soon as possible. One of our neighbors might hear the baby. Though you are correct, we can use our departure to cover taking her to the ship. Yet first I must speak with Cicely.”
Now that was unexpected. “Are you telling me she is involved as well?”
Eugénie grinned. “Yes, her father has many connections in the British islands. Cicely finds people to help the newly freed slaves.” She took his hand. “Come, let us inform Maman and the girls of our marriage.”
They walked the short distance from the servants’ quarters to the house, then to the level above Eugénie’s, which was devoid of children.
One of the two maids cleaning said, “The children are with the mistress, miss.”
Upon reaching the top floor, Bates informed them the family was out for the next few hours.
That was a disappointment. Now that the final decision had been made, Will wanted to tell someone, not to mention make arrangements for the girl and baby. He looked down at Eugénie. “Shall we visit Cicely and Andrew now?”
She twined her fingers in his. “A very good idea.”
When they got to Whitecliff House, Cicely, her father, and Andrew were gathered in the large main room.
Cicely glanced from Will to Eugénie and squealed. “Oh.” She quickly put her fingers over her mouth. “I should not have done that. Am I right, though? You have decided?”
Eugénie nodded and all Will saw was a flutter of muslin before Cicely threw her arms around his betrothed. “I’m so happy for you. Both of you.”
Andrew and Whitecliff strode over and slapped Will on his back, then hugged Eugénie.
“This calls for champagne,” Mr. Whitecliff said.
“Yes indeed.” Cicely took Eugénie to the sofa. “When will you marry?”
“We’ll sail to Tortola tomorrow or as soon as it can be arranged.”
Eugénie glanced at Will. Her eyes swam in tears, but she’d never looked happier, and he wasn’t going to let her down. “I’ll go from island to island if need be to chase down the vicar.”
The butler came in with the bottle of wine and flutes. Once they each had a glass, Andrew held his up. “A toast to never hiding in trees again.”
