“I would be remiss if I did not recommend you start bringing footmen along with you for your walks in Hyde Park,” he started. “It is far safer for a woman of your standing.”
Miss Sutherland rose. “I’m afraid I am used to walking everywhere by myself. I shall have to resign myself to the fact that I can no longer do things that I had once taken for granted.”
Rising, Fredrick tipped his hat. “It was a pleasure to meet you, Miss Sutherland.”
She dropped into a curtsy. “Thank you, kind sir,” she said before she turned to leave.
As he watched Miss Sutherland continue down the path, he had the strangest urge to follow her and ensure she returned home safely. But that would be far too presumptuous of him. It would be best if he let her find her own way home, without him.
Why had he not heard of this Miss Sutherland? He was acquainted with Sir Charles’ other children, as was everyone, and he found them to be rather arrogant, which didn’t sit well with him.
Fredrick did have an issue. A very pressing issue. He owed Sir Charles a great debt and he thought it had died with him. But he now realized that he could ease his conscience if he helped Miss Sutherland.
But where did he start? How could he teach Miss Sutherland everything she needed to know before she ventured into the treacherous waters of high Society?
The further Miss Sutherland progressed along the path, the stronger his conviction became that he must follow her to ensure her safe arrival home. He couldn’t just leave it be. He would never forgive himself if any harm befell her.
With a sigh, Fredrick hurried after her, being mindful not to draw Miss Sutherland’s attention. Not that it mattered. She kept her gaze straight ahead as she navigated the bustling streets of London, seemingly oblivious to the numerous perils that surrounded her.
Chapter Three
Emilia stared up at the townhouse and still couldn’t quite come to terms that this now belonged to her. All of it. What was she going to do with a grand townhouse? She had been raised in a cottage that had fit their needs and all her belongings fit into a trunk. Not even a large trunk.
Feelings of inadequacy coursed through her, leaving her uncertain about how to proceed. For once, she found herself without a plan.
“Is there a problem, Miss?” the maid asked, standing behind her.
Emilia shook her head. “No,” she replied. “I was just thinking.”
“It would be best if you did your thinking inside the townhouse,” the maid advised. “You wouldn’t wish to cause unwanted attention by standing on the pavement.”
“You are right,” Emilia said. “Thank you.”
Taking a deep breath, Emilia headed towards the main door of the townhouse. It was promptly opened and the butler greeted her.
“Welcome home, Miss Sutherland,” he said, opening the door wide.
She stepped into the entry hall and saw a silver-haired, portly woman that was dressed in a drab brown gown.
The woman smiled kindly at her. “My name is Mrs. Harvey and I am your housekeeper. Whatever you require, all you need to do is ask.”
Emilia winced, aware that she didn’t even know what to ask for.
Mrs. Harvey must have read her mind because she continued. “I know this might be a bit overwhelming for you so I have taken the liberty of arranging a few things for you,” she said. “The dressmaker will arrive tomorrow to fit you for a new wardrobe.”
“That is most kind of you,” Emilia said, glancing down at her simple gown.
The butler cleared his throat. “It is my turn to introduce myself. My name is Mr. Dalby and I have been in Sir Charles’ employ since I served him as an under-butler.”
“It is a pleasure to meet you, both of you,” Emilia acknowledged. “I’m afraid everything feels like a whirlwind right now.”
“That is to be expected,” Mrs. Harvey assured her. “But we shall help you.”
The sound of heels clicking on the marble floor resonated just before Mr. Rymer appeared.
“Good, you are back,” Mr. Rymer said. “How was your walk?”
“It went well. I met the most interesting gentleman,” Emilia revealed. “His name is Mr. Fredrick Westlake. Are you familiar with him?”
