“Think about what I said,” Bedford urged.
“I will,” Niles replied before heading into the drawing room.
As he entered, his eyes immediately sought out Elsbeth. She was still seated on the settee, but her color had returned, easing some of his worry. He approached her, his voice gentle. “How are you faring?”
Rather than answer his question, she asked one of her own. “What is wrong?”
“Not now.”
Her eyes searched his for a moment longer before she gave a reluctant nod. “Very well. But you will tell me?”
“I will,” he promised as he moved to sit down next to her on the settee.
Elsbeth lowered her gaze to her lap. “My mother insists I should rest.”
“That’s a good idea. But have a maid or someone you trust stay with you.”
“Do you truly think that’s necessary?” she asked, bringing her gaze back up to meet his.
His attempt at a reassuring smile fell short, even to him. “Better safe than sorry. Until we know more.”
Lady Isabella approached and extended her hand to her daughter. “Come, my dear. Let’s get you comfortable.”
Elsbeth rose and Niles stood as well. “I’ll call on you later, assuming you have no objections,” he said.
“I’d like that,” Elsbeth replied.
As they exited the drawing room, Niles walked behind the two women, his focus fixed on Elsbeth’s every step. When they reached the base of the stairs, she paused and turned back to face him.
“Thank you, Lord Westcott,” she said. “For everything.”
He bowed. “Enjoy your rest, my lady.”
She gave him a weak smile, but the sadness in her eyes struck him like a blow. What he wouldn’t give to remain by herside, ensuring her safety, offering her the comfort she so clearly needed.
The soft shuffle of boots drew his attention, and he turned to find Bedford stepping closer. “I’ll send word when the constable arrives.”
“Thank you,” Niles replied.
He started to leave, but Bedford’s voice stopped him mid-step. “Alfred was supposedly in his study when the planter fell.”
Niles turned back, his expression hardening. “Supposedly?”
Bedford’s gaze flicked towards the direction of Alfred’s study. “That’s what he claims. He said he was reviewing shipping manifests.”
“That is rather convenient,” Niles remarked. “Was anyone with him to corroborate his story?”
“No,” Bedford admitted. “And that’s what troubles me.”
Niles was still unsure. “But why would he try to harm Elsbeth? What could he possibly gain?”
“I told you, Alfred’s been digging into my uncle’s death. If he thinks Elsbeth knows something or might uncover the truth, it could be reason enough.”
Niles clenched his jaw. The idea of someone so close to Elsbeth harboring such dark intentions was intolerable. “We need proof.”
“Agreed,” Bedford said. “But for now, we need to keep Elsbeth out of harm’s way.”
“That is something we both can agree on.”
