Page 94 of A Match of Misfortune

“Yes, Mr. Johnathan Steele. He is a friend of Mr. Markham’s from India. His family owns one of the largest shipping companies within the East India Trading Company.”

“Well apparently, he has offered to buy out Lord Chatting’s share in Mr. Markham’s investment.” He let out a quick breath, his gaze skirting to Adelaide again, as if to make certain she was not hearing what it was they were speaking of. “And not only that, but Lord Chatting boasted that he had convinced another investor to sell Mr. Steele his shares as well. Perhaps it was at Mr. Steele’s request?”

“Why would Mr. Steele do that?”

“I can only think that he wishes to undermine Mr. Markham. Secure his investors for himself?”

“Perhaps.” Cecily did not know the man, but Nash had called him a friend. Had he been mistaken in their friendship? Did Mr. Steele truly wish to undermine him? “Lord Harlow, I cannot thank you enough for coming here today.”

“I admit Mr. Markham and I have never had much tolerance for one another, but I would never wish ill on him. Especially now that his future affects yours. I only hope I have come in time so that the information I have shared is useful.”

“That is my hope as well.” Cecily pressed out a grateful smile, though her churning thoughts were making her head spin. “I shall tell Mr. Markham of what you have reported straightaway, but we shall be sure not to tell anyone outside of those we trust where we heard of it. I should not wish you to have any negative consequences because of your kindness.”

“Thank you.” Lord Harlow stood as Cecily did, and he followed her to the door. She paused just before the threshold. “Miss Bradshaw, I also want to apologize for my reaction to your news the other night at the park. It admittedly disappointed me, but I hope you know I truly wish the best for you. You are an exceptional lady, and Mr. Markham is lucky to have won your affection.”

Cecily expected the typical wave of guilt she experienced each time someone mentioned their betrothal, but all she felt was gratitude for Lord Harlow’s sentiment. Perhaps even a touch of excitement at the thought that Nash truly had won her affection. Which was a troublesome development, to be sure. “I appreciate your understanding, and for what it is worth, I do not doubt you will find a most admirable match. Possibly with Lady Victoria?”

“I am to take her to the theater on Friday.”

“I hope you enjoy yourselves.”

He gave a wry smile, then lifted Cecily’s knuckles to his lips, placing a soft kiss upon them. “Farewell, Miss Bradshaw.”

“Farewell, Lord Harlow.”

He stepped past her, halting just outside the door, his gaze set forward. Cecily peeked around the door to find Nash standing at the bottom of the steps, red-nosed and glowering. Lord Harlow gave a small nod of acknowledgment, which Nash returned with a stiff nod of his own, then Lord Harlow made his way to the entry hall without a word.

“What did he want?” Nash asked once Caldwell had seen him out.

There was no time to tease him about his overly dramatic reaction. “We need to speak.” She gestured toward the library, and with one hesitant look, he followed her inside. Cecily closed the door, then relayed all that Lord Harlow had said.

Nash’s gaze was distant as he considered the news. “Are you certain Featherbottom spoke in earnest?”

“I trust him.”

Nash released a slow exhale, clearly not pleased with her admission. “In that case, it seems I must pay Johnathan a visit. See if I can glean any insight as to his reason for doing this.”

Cecily nodded. “I shall inform your mother as soon as she comes home.”

He dipped his chin and started toward the door.

“Wait!” Cecily called, pausing his retreat. She took a few cautious steps in his direction, her chest buzzing with nerves. “My luck is yours to have, all of it,” she said, lifting onto her toes and placing a soft kiss upon his cheek. When she lowered down again, Nash smiled at her. “I’m not sure if it will help, but I suppose it is a better tactic than simply wishing you luck.”

He lifted a hand to her face, his thumb grazing her cheek. “Thank you. I feel as though my luck is already shifting.”

When he stepped through the library door, Cecily found that, for the first time since meeting Nash, she truly hoped that fortune would favor him.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

On his way to the East India Docks, Nash’s mind churned over everything Cecily had relayed to him. Why Lord Chatting would so fully turn on him made little sense. Nor could he think of a justifiable reason Johnathan would offer to buy the man’s shares in his investment without first telling Nash of it. A fact that did not bode well for the forthcoming conversation they were about to have.

Johnathan’s hired guard stood outside the office door, his sharp gaze settling on Nash when he approached.

“Might I speak with Mr. Steele?”

His gaze moved across Nash. “Your coat?”

Nash unbuttoned his coat, showing the guard he had no weapons on his person before the man gave a brisk nod and gestured him inside.