Page 27 of Bound By The Christmastide Moon

“I’m certain you’ve spoken to your friend to reassure her that London is not the awful fate she thinks it is,” he prodded.

Her mouth drew downward, and her stare followed. “Unfortunately, I would not know what London and a proper Season entails beyond what I have heard from my mother or read about in the London Daily Gazette.”

Why had he assumed she’d been introduced to polite society? As the only daughter of a wealthy and influential marquess, it would be foolish to assume Mallory hadn’t been afforded a Season.

Then again, he’d never questioned the Marquess of Blandford’s willingness to wed his daughter to a stranger either.

“You can show yourself out, my lord?” she asked.

“Certainly, but I shall walk you to the manor.”

A hint of a smile settled on her lips. “We are in the manor.” She tipped her head toward the wall behind her, and Silas noticed a nearly invisible seam in the stone. “I’ll enter the house through the study.”

The Tetbery Estate apparently held many secrets; however, Silas could not help but wonder if Lady Mallory hid far more.

“I best return to the village as my brother will be arriving shortly.” He grasped the handrail but made no move to turn. “Have a joyous Christmastide holiday. I look forward to our nuptials in the spring.”

His heart stopped as he awaited her reply. He’d deceived her horribly, and she had every right to be angry with him. Continuing their betrothal was more than Silas deserved. But he was certain he wanted it.

“Of course, Silas,” she mumbled before turning and hurrying toward the hidden door.

He watched in utter shock as she pulled a cord, and the door sprang open.

When she glanced back at him as she fled the room, he noticed her smile.

His reckoning was coming, and Silas greatly anticipated the day.

Chapter 12

Mallory strolled down the walk in Bocka Morrow, entering shops at random as she attempted to keep her thoughts focused on things other than the sensual dreams that had plagued her during the night. She’d run into Felicity as she was leaving the laboratory, and while her friend was upset, the Duke of Wycliffe seemed to have the situation handled. She supposed her vision had been correct, after all, about the two of them growing closer.

The late-morning breeze off the ocean held a biting chill; however, Mallory barely noticed it, and Aunt Hettie had layered on two thick cloaks in preparation for their trip into. Thus far, she’d purchased a new scarf for her mother, an emerald necklace for Felicity, and a new stationery set for their housekeeper in Launceston, along with many other baubles for various servants at both Tetbery and Blenheim.

Frankly, she was running out of time and coin.

And Aunt Hettie would not believe she had anyone left to buy a gift for.

The streets were crowded with both local villagers and many smartly dressed men and women, likely in Cornwall for the wedding taking place tomorrow at the castle.

Oh, how Mallory wished to attend. She’d been invited, after all, and by the countess herself. Yet, when she’d shared the news with her aunt, the aging woman had only shaken her head and forbidden Mallory from attending. The only shining light…she hadn’t barred Mallory from the Yule ball. That Mallory had failed to mention the celebration could be the reason.

“Auntie,” Mallory cooed with a grin. “Look, a haberdashery. I am certain Tressa would adore a new set of ribbons for her hair.”

When Aunt Hettie waved her off, Mallory entered the shop and feigned interest in an ivory Scrimshaw sewing kit displayed in the window. She did her best to appear interested in the many essentials being sold by the haberdasher, but her stare kept straying out the window to the town beyond.

One more day. Mallory had convinced Aunt Hettie to remain at Tetbery Estate for one more day.

Mallory was determined to use it wisely. Even from this vantage point, she had a clear view of The Crown & Anchor. Lord Lichfield hadn’t so much as appeared in the several hours she and Aunt Hettie had wandered about town. Could it be the countess had offered him lodging at the castle and he no longer resided at the tavern?

Damnation. After the fright from the explosion in Felicity’s lab had subsided, all Mallory could think about was Lord Lichfield, Silas, his lips on hers, his arms holding her close, and the surprising way her body fit against his. Their kiss had sparked something deep within her, and now she was helpless to think of anything else.

Though if Felicity or Aunt Hettie had noticed her distracted nature that morning, neither had commented on it.

“Will you be buying that, miss?” Mallory glanced up to see the proprietor at her elbow gesturing to her hands. She’d removed the ivory sewing kit and now clutched it in her hands. “I can have it wrapped for you.”

“Oh, it is lovely, and I was going to purchase it for a friend; however, I only now remembered she does not enjoy sewing as a pastime.” Mallory returned the kit to its place in the window and smiled as the man moved on to another customer.

Glancing about the shop, Aunt Hettie was occupied, picking through a large bowl of pearl buttons while their footman had been sent back to the carriage a while ago with more packages to stow.