Page 57 of The Marquess of Secrets

The viscount slid his gaze to Lydia as if assessing if she were worth such an emotionally spoken declaration. Perhaps before meeting Harrison, she would have believed she wasn’t.

But in the past few weeks, healing had begun, not only of her self-worth but her battered soul. It was a start, though the journey was not complete as yet.

“Then I can delay my departure for two days. Think about it, Harry. There is strength in numbers. Besides your valet, you will have a man or two from this investigative agency as well. Better yet, I will send a telegraph to Spence. He is at the manor and will be able to meet us halfway on the journey.”

Harrison rubbed his chin then looked at her. “Lydia?”

How wonderful that Harrison sought her opinion. Not used to it, for Huntsford never had.

Lydia glanced at the brothers, who waited for her response. “I think it a solid plan; I cannot see Huntsford making any move in such a public and enclosed place as a train. But I regret the fact I’m pulling you all into this. And at such a happy time as a double wedding.”

The viscount gave her a brief smile, the first sign of any warmth from him. “The timing may be unfortunate, but if Harry cares for you this intensely, then know that his family, particularly his brothers, will do what we can to assist him. Which in turn means to assist you.”

Passing the cup and saucer to the viscount, she returned his smile. “Thank you, my lord.”

“Call me Tremain.”

“If you will call me Lydia.”

They settled in for a relaxing cup of tea. The two brothers discussed the latest bill before Parliament, keeping her in the conversation.

The Married Women’s Property Act would be receiving royal assent in August, passed, and take effect the first of January 1883.

At last, married women could buy, own, and sell property and keep their own earnings. A married woman’s legal identity will no longer cease to exist.

Marriage never came up as a topic between her and John, and she was silently grateful. However, he managed to seduce what little money she’d tucked away into his possession. In small drips.

The thought of it angered her afresh. No more admonishments or feeling sorry for herself. Huntsford and what happened between them was firmly in her past.

Time to forgive herself. Heal, as Harrison had said.

But first to see Huntsford brought to justice. Any kind of justice they could manage, even if they could only use his debt as recourse.

She would not be able to relax or move forward until he was completely out of her life. Lydia’s gaze slid to Harrison. Nor would she be able to love this wonderful man with a full heart as he deserved until all was behind her.

Truthfully speaking, she was already halfway in love with him.

Chapter 16

After Tremain departed, the next twenty-four hours passed in a blur of activity. Harrison made arrangements at the terminus for his absence, instructing the nuns to be a little more aggressive in who could stay at the shelter.

They had been broadminded in their previous decisions but now must insist those who could find shelter and assistance elsewhere, to do it. And the terminus staff would also now curtail lengths of stay at the facility.

Harrison loathed doing this, but he was short of funds. Besides, Sam located an empty two-story building one street over that could prove to be an ideal location for their clinic/shelter. Best to focus their attention on finding a permanent home.

Speaking of his friend, Sam lounged in the wing chair as Harrison moved about his bed-chamber, selecting the clothing he would take with him to Gransford Manor. Before coming upstairs, he introduced his good friend to Lydia.

“Shouldn’t your valet be doing such a chore?” Sam asked.

Sam had just completed his shifts at the hospital and would be taking charge of the terminus while Harrison was at Gransford Manor.

“I like to select my own garments; Gillis will pack it.” He turned toward his friend. “I want you to stay here while I’m gone. I’ve asked you more than once to give up your rented rooms and take up residence here. Think of the money you will save, especially since you’re pursuing a young lady of quality. My servants will be at your disposal. Decent meals, a good bed—”

Sam laughed heartily. “Enough. You’ve convinced me. I paid rent until the end of the month, but I will stay here while you’re gone. After that, we will further discuss our living arrangements.”

“Good man.” Harrison laid some cravats on the bed.

“Preparations have been made with Robins?”