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“I know a physician in London who works with people who might be dealing with this type of issue. He doesn’t believe in putting them in Bed
lam unless they are a danger to themselves or others. He only takes a few people at a time so he can give them his attention.”
“Has he had any success?” Mia asked softly.
“Some,” her mother replied. “But it all depends on the person. Some prefer the habit and despise the pain of stopping. Ridding the body of the opium is a dreadful process. I’ve only seen it once and hope to never have to see it again. If I send a letter to the physician, he will likely take Charlie.”
Simon closed his eyes. He had to do something and the last thing he wanted was to see his brother in Bedlam or worse, dead from the drug. “Write the letter, Mrs. Featherstone. I’ll speak to James about this.”
“Of course, Hart. I think you’re making the right decision.”
Simon stood and nodded. “I hope you are right.”
Mia climbed under the covers and moved closer to her husband. She rested her head against Simon and sighed. It had been a very long day. “Are you all right with what my mother suggested for Charlie?”
“Yes,” Simon said. “He needs help. Hopefully, this physician can give him that.”
“So what’s troubling you?”
“I am responsible for his gambling debts and the cost of his treatment. On top of all our other financial issues. James has offered to help with Charlie’s debts but that’s not fair to him.”
Mia had spent an hour pouring over the books this evening. “The crops have been helping this year. We’re already up from last year and the harvest isn’t all in yet. Perhaps the tenants could afford a slight increase in rents.”
“I hate to do that after what Burton did to them.”
She gently caressed his chest. “I know. We’ll get through this together, Simon.”
“Yes, we will.” He hugged her tighter to him.
“I love you so much, Simon. I’m sorry I ever doubted you.”
“I promised your mother that I would never hurt you, physically or otherwise. I meant those words, Mia. I love you.”
Her heart swelled with love for her husband. She had found her place in life as wife, caretaker, and perhaps one day soon—mother.
