Page 43 of The Marquess of Secrets

She laughed brokenly. “Brave? Hardly. I merely want to put this behind me.”

“If all works out the way I believe it will, there is no reason you can’t move on with your life immediately.”

Harrison sipped his tea. “There is to be a double wedding in about two weeks. My brothers will be marrying their brides-to-be. What I’m about to reveal about my family is part of the exchange of secrets. I protect my family as best as I’m able, despite the gossip. I would protect them with my life.”

“You have my word. I will not repeat anything you tell me.”

As they ate, he elucidated how his younger brother Spencer met his choice of bride. An ex-madam? How fascinating.

Then he explained about Tremain and the ex-governess. Harrison hinted she had been dismissed from her post because of a dalliance with the son of the house. But he spoke of both women in glowing terms stating that the couples deserved all the happiness in the world.

“What captivating stories. Your brothers found love matches in the most unlikely of circumstances.”

“Yes, I couldn’t be more pleased for them.”

“Are your brothers marrying here in London?” she asked.

“No. I’m leaving for Hastings just before the nuptials. The affair is taking place at my family’s country estate not far from the town. Never fear. I will ensure you’re settled before I head off, whatever news Robins imparts.”

He’s leaving? Her heart sank.

Despite the heated looks they’d exchanged, it appeared Harrison had no interest in her. Perhaps the gentle kiss last night was innocent.

As usual, she read too much into it.

Lydia did not reply but instead pulled her protective wall about her. She must remain politely distant until he departs for Hastings.

The crestfallen look on her face must be evident.

“Are you all right, Lydia?” Harrison asked.

Her counterfeit smile froze in place. “Yes. All is well.”

But it wasn’t.

Lydia would not show her vulnerable side again.

Or expose her heart.

Chapter 13

Harrison instructed William Robins to come to the townhouse at eleven in the morning. Harrison had a busy day ahead, attending the session at Parliament then his shift at the terminus.

Sam’s shifts at St. Bart’s were causing havoc, and if his friend was taken on permanently, it would cause further tribulations.

It was only a matter of time, for Sam was more than competent, and Harrison suspected his dear friend hadn’t looked seriously for a position in order to continue assisting at the terminus.

Though he’d offered to have Sam move into the townhouse and be given a stipend, his proud friend refused. Instead, he stayed at a small rooming house, supplementing his income with sporadic shifts at various London hospitals.

But now that he’d met Miss Wollstonecraft, Sam would have to consider a different trajectory for his future. Harrison would never stand in the way of his close friend’s career.

Yes, immediate changes were needed.

The sooner he discussed this situation with his family, the sooner he could go public.

Once settled in the parlor, Harrison’s gaze moved to Lydia. She sat ramrod straight on the settee. Had something happened since yesterday morning?

Harrison could not pinpoint what.