“How very flattering,” Julian replied, laughing. “Though I will say I come out rather better than certain titled gentleman friends of ours.”
Clara chuckled. Mrs. Westchester had been kind enough not to name exactly who had ended up locked in a room during the rescue.
“I still do not know precisely how it happened,” Julian said. “I recall hearing a door closing loudly at one point.”
“And I heard a thud,” Clara confirmed.
Arabella nodded eagerly. “Well, yes. That was Nathaniel. Mr. Heath came upon him trying to unlock the door to the room where Clara was no longer, knocked him out cold, and thensnatched me.” Her hand went up to her head. “I rather wish I had made it a stipulation at his trial that his hair be pulled in the same fashion he pulled mine.”
“No, no. I think transportation to Australia is punishment enough for him,” Julian said.
“I wish they had transported Devereau as well, rather than giving him a fifteen-year term.”
“Well, yes,” Julian agreed. “But still, he was punished. That is what matters.” He paused. “Oh, did I tell you I received a letter from Steven Devers? He apologized on his cousin’s behalf and assured me his English side of the family is properly mortified by his actions and that he regrets bringing him to my ball.”
“Good,” Arabella said. “When I was in Italy, his uncle spoke very poorly of the English relations. It is a shame his uncle was not punished for any of it. But I suppose, being Italian, there is not much that can be done.”
“No,” Clara pointed out. “Although he did not actually keep anyone prisoner. That was all Devereau.”
Clara paused for a moment then smiled. “Have you thought about going back to Italy? Giacomo will surely want to see his family.”
Arabella shook her head. “Giacomo wishes to bring his parents and two brothers here. I had thought perhaps they might come and take over the Ridley farm. If you do not mind it.”
“In Southampton?” Julian scratched his chin. “I suppose. But you and Giacomo have been staying in Brixton with us.”
“Yes,” she said. “But truly, since the story has been released, I do not wish to stay in London any longer than is necessary. I think I should enjoy living in Southampton, at least for a time. I want Horatio to be closer to the water and to learn to ride when he is old enough. Of course, it would be very nice if the two of you came as well.”
Clara and Julian glanced at each other.
“We have actually been talking about it,” Clara admitted. “I too am quite tired of London.”
Arabella clasped her hands together in the way that, even now, reminded Clara of when they had been little girls and excited about something together.
“That is wonderful. Perhaps we could all go together. I shall tell Giacomo to write to his parents at once.”
Julian leaned forward. “But we must be careful. You cannot live with Giacomo until you are properly married. And you have only just obtained the divorce.”
They had decided in the end that it would be best for Horatio if he were not considered out of wedlock. Thus, instead of pursuing an annulment based on fraud, for which they had a sound case, they had obtained a divorce on the grounds of Sebastian’s cruelty. Divorce was still a considerable stigma in their society, perhaps more so even than an annulment would have been, but it was better for Horatio.
Furthermore, by still being legally bound to Devereau when the conviction came down, Arabella was entitled to certain compensations from the family. She had overheard Steven Devers discussing it with Julian. The negotiations were ongoing, but Steven was a decent fellow, and she knew he would do right by his nephew twice removed.
“Yes, yes, I am aware,” Arabella said. “However, soon we will be properly married. Giacomo has told me he wishes to marry once his parents arrive. He has been writing back and forth with them. They want a Catholic ceremony, of course, but?—”
“Arabella,” Julian said, “you cannot do this to the vicar.”
“I know it; I know it,” Arabella replied. “Do not fret. It shall be a Church of England wedding. Julian, Giacomo has already agreed.”
Julian sank back into his seat, visibly relieved. The truth was that they could not afford another scandal just now.
The carriage came to a halt outside a small chapel, and Julian stepped out, handing first Clara and then Arabella down.
“I hope Horatio will be quite all right,” Clara said. “I feel dreadful leaving him.”
“Nell has looked after him before as has Mrs. Parker. All will be well. And young Mary has been doing very well also.” Clara glanced at Julian. He let out a small grunt but then nodded.
“Yes. She has turned out not to be entirely useless,” he conceded.
Arabella raised a brow at Clara, who waved a hand. “I shall tell you another time.”
