AllFreeNovel
Share Us
The three of them laughed good-naturedly at the image of Molly, a head shorter than her statuesque employer, hefting Lady Clara to the carriage. At the same time, no one was in any doubt of Mr. Robertson’s or Molly’s concern.
“With the two of you aligned, I haven’t a chance!” Lady Clara looked warmly from her husband to Molly.
“Very well, then. Until this evening.” Mr. Robertson pressed a kiss to his wife’s temple, and his hand brushed back and forth lightly over their child.
When her ladyship’s hand closed over his, Molly dropped her eyes again and prepared the earbob in her fingers, having it at the ready when a moment later, Lady Clara was back in her chair at the dressing table.
Ten minutes later, the pearl drops suspended from the lady’s ears were bobbing during the carriage ride to Regent Street.
“You and James are right that I must be more prudent in my energies. After we finish at Madame Robillard’s, I should like to pass by the milliner’s, but then it’s best if we return home. I’ll rest before I practice at the piano.”
“Very good, my lady.” Molly thought about their schedule for the rest of the week. “Perhaps we could visit the music shop tomorrow. Or if you know what you’d like, I could visit there myself whilst you’re at the modiste. Have you decided what to do about the Schumann scores?”
“Ah. No, I haven’t. In fact, Molly, I need your assistance in that regard.”
She frowned. “Myassistance?”
Lady Clara’s elegant hand gestured to her expanded waistline. “I’ve found myself unable to pay proper attention to the plans for my music library. My mind is always elsewhere, whether on the babe herself, how Violet House will fare in my absence, or spending time with my brother before I leave for Anterleigh.”
“Of course. You have a great deal on your mind.”
“I’m finding it exceedingly grueling to take decisions on anything that isn’t strictly necessary.”
Molly nodded. “Yes, my lady. Carrying the babe alone is demanding. You’re creating a new life, you are.”
“May it be so.” Her eyes fluttered closed, but rather than look fragile, Lady Clara looked the picture of health. Unlike the pallor that followed her losses, her fair skin glowed. “Nonetheless, I find myself in reduced spirits when it comes to concentration. I’m afraid that the question of which scores to acquire for my library is not a matter I can resolve for you before I depart.”
“Don’t give it another thought, my lady. What’s important is that you’re well. The library will sort itself out.”
Lady Clara smiled indulgently. “I do believe I’ve been waiting for it to sort itself out, but the stubborn thing has not complied. No, I’m afraid it requires aid. Yours and Mr. Vogel’s.”
Having no musical background or ability beyond what she’d acquired as an avid observer of her ladyship’s impressive playing, Molly was hardly well-placed to curate a music library. The sparkle in Lady Clara’s eyes told her that her employer, however, was well aware—but had plans for her.
Molly knew that look, and her eyes widened accordingly. “My lady?”
“What if your duties included close collaboration with Mr. Vogel while I’m in the country?”
She gripped her hands together, trying and failing to hide her frown. Like a convert eager to spread the gospel, a person addled by romance was keen to see others so afflicted. Ever since marrying Mr. Robertson, Lady Clara had quietly crusaded for her brother, the Earl, to seek not just a wife but love.
Regarding Molly curiously, her ladyship raised her chin. “You never stray far during Mr. Vogel’s visits.”
Half-snorting, she looked out the window.Not even halfway yet!“How could I? That piano tuner is ever fussing about needing the draperies tied back to let in more light. Once I open them, he asks for them to be adjusted just so.”
“You don’t leave after that.”
“It’s one demand after another, he has! If it’s not to hand him a tool, it’s listening to notes he plays—as if I have any competence in the matter.” She sniffed loudly and looked back at her employer.
“Ever since I was fortunate enough to hire Mr. Vogel, I’ve never heard you have so much to say about a gentleman.”
“I understand your meaning, but begging your pardon, my lady—no.”
“No, you aren’t keen on the handsome, quiet Mr. Vogel?”
“I…”
How does she know? Could I have been so obvious?
A slow smile spread until it animated her ladyship’s face, and despite Molly’s affection for her employer, exasperation grew. “I won’t be courted, my lady.”
