Page 13 of Lady Arabella’s Reluctant Hero

Pinky swear complete, Lucy wrapped her arms around his neck. "I miss you when you're not at home," she said into his shoulder.

"I miss you too, my love," he whispered.

When she finally loosened her grip and pulled back, it was to ask, "Where's Aunt Clarissa? She said she'd come and say goodbye."

The bell rang at the front door. They shared a small smile.

"That'll be her," he said.

It was indeed his sister at the door—but he was surprised to find the Dowager Duchess of Ashworth at her side.

Clarissa came in like a strong wind and Lucy was in her arms within two strides. "Darling girl. I'm already counting the days until Kit and I come to join you in the country."

Lucy's giggles filled the air as she and Clarissa whispered between themselves.

He heard Clarissa say quietly, "I have brought you stories. I absolutely insist you read them aloud to Mrs. Lennox in the carriage."

"Will she be scandalized?" Lucy asked, her tone breathless.

"Goodness, I hope so," Clarissa said.

The Dowager Duchess of Ashworth still stood just inside the door, waiting with patience to be welcomed.

He bowed. "Your Grace."

"Lord Alderton. Forgive the intrusion. We were on our way to Berkeley Square, and I insisted on joining Lady Stratton in her farewells to Miss Whitfield."

It was a graceful explanation. It was also a transparent one. While Lucy had accompanied him to Clarissa's wedding and had several interactions with the dowager duchess, it could hardly be said that they'd grown particularly close.

But it was clear the Dowager Duchess of Ashworth meant to talk to him, and he had a nagging feeling it had something to do with the column he'd so unsuccessfully ignored.

He forced a congenial smile. "You are always welcome, of course. Shall I have refreshments brought?"

Her smile was small and polite. "Please."

He rang.

Lucy seemed to only now realize that they were not alone, and she made her curtsey to the older woman. The duchess inclined her head. "Miss Whitfield, I wish you a safe and pleasant journey."

"Thank you, Your Grace." Lucy's tone was meeker than he'd ever heard it. It seemed even his bold daughter was intimidated by Her Grace.

Clarissa took Lucy by the hand. "I shall walk you to the carriage, darling. Your father and Her Grace need a word."

She caught John's eye over Lucy's head. The look was brief…and alarmingly apologetic.

"By next week, Papa," Lucy whispered as she gave him one last embrace.

He kissed the top of her head. "I promise."

A short while later he found himself alone in the parlor with the duchess as Clarissa saw Lucy and Mrs. Lennox off.

The duchess permitted tea to be poured. She even allowed him a small remark about the weather before she got down to business. "Lord Alderton. I shall not waste your morning. I have come about Lady Arabella Wycliffe."

He had been expecting it from the moment he saw her in his hall. But her direct manner still caught him off guard. "I see."

She set her cup down with a clink. "May I be direct?"

He dipped his head. "I would prefer it."