Turning to face the Bow Street Runner, Winston asked, “Is my Aunt Sarah all right?”
The Bow Street Runner nodded. “Yes, but a man fitting Isaac’s description has been seen in the village. We must be extra vigilant at this time.”
Winston felt a cold dread settle in his stomach. Isaac’s presence could only mean trouble for them. “I will inform my father that Isaac might be calling upon him soon.”
Grady looked serious. “From what Jasper told me about Isaac, he does not seem like a man that will go away without a fight.”
“Let us hope that isn’t the case,” Winston said. “I will inform White of this development and insist the footmen are prepared for whatever may come.”
“Very good,” Grady responded as he headed towards the door. He stopped and turned back around. “I thought you might be interested in knowing that Miss Bawden has arrived with her father. They are currently in the drawing room.”
Winston attempted to keep his face expressionless. “Why would that concern me?” he asked.
Grady looked amused. “My apologies, my lord,” he said, not seeming very repentant at all.
As Grady departed from the room, Winston was left alone with his thoughts. He couldn’t deny the sudden flutter of anticipation at the news of Mattie’s arrival. Despitethe grave situation with Isaac, the thought of seeing Mattie brought a flicker of warmth to his otherwise troubled heart.
With a deep breath, he made his way to the drawing room. He had only seen Mattie a short time ago when they had gone on the carriage ride, but that hardly mattered to him, especially with their new understanding. They were going to attempt to be friends once more. Was that even possible?
Winston paused briefly at the drawing room door, composing himself before entering. When he stepped inside, his gaze immediately sought out Mattie.
“Mattie,” he greeted. “I was made to understand that your father had accompanied you here.”
She smiled, and now the room was brighter because of it. “He is meeting with your father,” she explained.
“Ah, that would make sense,” Winston said, suddenly feeling very foolish for coming down to greet Mattie. “I am sure my mother will be here shortly.”
“I expect so, as well,” Mattie responded.
Winston felt nervous, and he was never nervous. Not around Mattie or anyone. Why was she causing such a reaction in him? “It is a nice day we are having, is it not?”
Mattie bobbed her head. “Yes, quite nice.”
Winston found himself at a loss for words as an awkward silence stretched between them. He took a step closer, searching for something meaningful to say. “I trust you found the journey pleasant?”
“It was uneventful, which I suppose is a good thing,” she replied. “I would have preferred to walk, but my father was insistent that we take the coach.”
“As he well should, since he is a viscount now,” Winston said.
Mattie’s smile dimmed. “Do not remind me.”
Winston cocked his head. “Did I say something wrong?” he asked.
She waved a dismissive hand in front of her. “I do not wish to burden you with my troubles.”
“It is no trouble at all,” Winston replied. “I thought we were going to at least attempt to be friends.”
A look of uncertainty crossed Mattie’s features before she shared, “I recently learned that my housekeeper, Mrs. Watson, will not be joining us at Darlington Abbey. She is going to remain behind and tend to the cottage for the new vicar.”
“Does Darlington Abbey not have its own housekeeper?” he asked.
Mattie clasped her hands in front of her, the gesture betraying her emotions. “Yes, but I have known Mrs. Watson for most of my life. She is more than a servant to me. She is a dear friend.”
“I can only imagine how difficult that must be for you,” Winston acknowledged.
Letting out a deep sigh, Mattie continued, her voice tinged with sorrow. “To add to my misery, I am not quite sure how to help my younger cousin. She is struggling since losing her parents.”
“All while you are still grieving their loss as well,” Winston observed.
