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Reynolds was happily married to Leena, Siobhan’s new personal maid. Their wedding had been a simple, yet enjoyable affair which Miles had gladly attended. Now a year later, they remained quite content.
When he entered the dining room, only his father was about, his eyes brightening at seeing him. “I am glad to see you faring better. There is much to discuss. A shipment from the London property has been lost.”
While Miles ate, they discussed business, but the entire time, he kept an eye on the door. Finally, he asked, “Where are the women?”
“They went to some sort of breakfast at the church. I do believe it has something to do with planning a celebration.”
He was glad to hear that his mother had kept Siobhan entertained, while at the same time he’d hoped to see her. There was much to discuss, and he had to make his absence up to her.
“You have not told her?” his father asked. “You should.”
Miles nodded. “I know. I’d hoped to spare her the knowledge of my shortcomings until after a few months together.”
“Your headaches have been farther apart. But I agree the timing of this one was inopportune. Still, she should have been informed. The lass seems saddened by your absence.”
As if he wasn’t feeling enough guilt, the words were heavy on his shoulders. “I will speak with her upon her return.”
*
“Good morning, Your Lordship,” Leena greeted him as he went to the French doors in search of much needed fresh air.
“Leena,” he replied. “A word.”
The woman smiled politely, waiting for what he’d say.
“How was my wife this morning?”
“She was quite excited, my lord. And she informed me that her works for the poor have always been satisfying and fulfilling.”
He frowned. “I hope she is not disappointed. I do not think the celebration planned at the church that Mother took her to will be for the poor.”
It was Leena’s turn to frown. “Church, my lord?”
“My wife, she went with mother and my sister to the church this morning.”
Leena relaxed. “No. She left just after then. A carriage came to get her. I believe the crest was a Perot.”
His blood ran cold. “Who came for her?”
“A young lady and gentleman, my lord.”
Glad to be already wearing his riding boots, he raced out and down the steps. When he neared the stables, one of the stable hands came out into the yard. “My lord?”
“Prepare my horse, Vance, at once.”
Soon after, he raced from the estate, urging his horse to a gallop until reaching the city streets where he was forced to pull the beast to a trot.
Finally, he arrived at the market; he looked for her, but she was not there. So he dismounted and hurried to the shelter. A harried woman met him at the doorway, her tired expression softening at seeing him. “My lord. We here are so grateful for your presence and the saving of the young miss.”
He attempted to keep his temper in check. “I am grateful as well. Have you seen her this morning?”
“Oh, aye. She was here much earlier. I presume she and Miss Henriette are over at the apartments to see about a sick woman named Susan and her bairns.” She gave him an exhausted smile. “Saintly work, my lord.”
He pulled out his purse and poured the contents into the shocked woman’s hands. “For whatever is needed here at the shelter. And ensure to purchase something for yourself as well,” he told her.
“Th-thank you… my lord.” Her eyes shone with tears. “May you be blessed.”
Although the anger dimmed, worry still filled Miles as he made his way to the apartments. Just as he neared, Siobhan, Henriette and her brother emerged. The women talked to each other while the man glanced around, his hands loose at his sides. It was apparent he was on guard for any possible approaches—today, anyway. As soon as they exited the building, the coachman appeared behind.
