twenty-three
FOCUSING ON WORKING was a chore for Keith after the happy time he’d spent with Violante. He hadn’t kissed her since that morning, but the sweet pressure of her body against him as they’d hugged each other was impressed into his mind and soul. Her words were carved into his memories. Her scent teased his senses. He was aware her presence distracted him from other activities. In fact, the deal with the count had taken second place compared to the urge to be with her.
Sitting in front of the count with Paul, Keith forced himself to stop thinking of her, which somehow made him feel guilty.
“Do you approve of Wellington’s idea, Ashford?” the count asked from his stuffed chair.
Paul raised his eyebrows, waiting for Keith’s answer.
“I do.”
Keith hoped Paul’s idea wasn’t anything crazy. He was finally alone with the count and Paul without Nigel hovering around. The insufferable man had gone to the village to do something. Good riddance. It was his opportunity to try to secure the future of his project and have an honest conversation with the count.
Paul gave him a sceptical glance. “As I said, I’m setting up a gymnasium and youth centre in New York City as well.”He showed a map of New York City to the count. “My idea is to favour cultural exchanges between the United States and Britain. The youth from New York City will travel to London and spend a few months there, and those from the London centre will do the same, if Ashford agrees.”
Keith was impressed. “I say. That’s a splendid idea.” He hadn’t imagined Paul might care so much.
Paul flashed a boyish smile that reminded Keith of their happy time in Sharpe Manor before the disaster.
“If you’re involved, my lord,” Paul said, “we’ll add Rome to the list of possible destinations, and of course, I’d like to know if you decide to make a deal with Keith.”
Despite his delightful distraction, Keith’s chest warmed at the thought of having his project realised. “Imagine what travelling and seeing new places would do to these children.”
The count’s stubborn frown didn’t want to ease. “Travelling is expensive, especially to and from the United States. And then there are the fees for the accommodation for these children. How do you plan to cover these costs?”
“I’ll certainly find a way to fund the operation for my charges.” Paul turned towards Keith.
“I’ll do the same. I like the idea,” Keith said. “Also, we can raise more money through charity events.”
Paul nodded. “You’re welcome to donate if you want to be part of this venture, my lord. It’s a noble cause. One that has proven results.”
“Such as?” the count asked.
Paul didn’t seem bothered by the count’s lack of enthusiasm. “Reduced criminality rates in the quarters of New York City where youth centres are operating to start with. These children receive a good education, which translates into better jobs. Thirty per cent of my youngsters aspire to go to a university. It’s an impressive figure.”
“University paid by the charitable trust, I suppose,” the count said.
“Yes, my lord.” Again, Paul seemingly failed to catch the sarcasm in the count’s voice. “A noble pursuit, as I said.”
“Were there any accidents in these youth centres?” The count stapled his fingers on the desk. “Ashford? What about your centre?”
There. Keith shifted his position. He couldn’t lie. “Yes, my lord. Thievery is unfortunately common. There have been stabbings and fights, too.”
“Mr. Wellington?” The count turned towards Paul.
“A few incidents. They happen only when new children arrive,” Paul hurried to say. “Once they understand criminal behaviour won’t be tolerated, they change their attitude rather quickly. Besides, what do we expect? We take these children out of desperate situations of crime and violence. Incidents are bound to happen.”
“Really?” The count leant back in his chair, stroking his short beard. “Sir Nigel plans to employ only people from the rookery to improve their situations. An honest job will do wonders for those unfortunate people.”
“After he forcibly takes their homes,” Keith said. “It sounds like blackmail to me.”
“An exclusive hotel in that area of St. Giles will never work.” Paul jabbed a finger on the desk. “It’ll only cause unrest.”
“But many people will find a good job,” the count said. “Isn’t that a better form of help?”
“The education of children is the future,” Keith said. “That’s how we help them. That’s how we build a better society.”
The count remained silent for a long moment. When he spoke, he faced Paul. “Wellington, would you mind if I have a word with Ashford in private?”
