Passionate Secrets (The Secrets Trilogy Book 2) (22 page)

“We have many other things with which to be concerned.” Emma drew back the covers on the bed and Tessa climbed in. “Beginning with how Patrick managed to witness a murder. That greatly concerns me.”

Tessa sighed. “I feel as if that’s my fault.”

“How could it possibly be
your
fault?”

“If I weren’t so ill, then Mother would pay more attention to what Patrick is doing and where he goes.” She lay back against the pillows, her face pale with exhaustion.

“Tessa, you can’t believe that for a moment. Even if you were feeling better, Patrick would not be able to stay in our flat all day long. He’d make us all crazed, enclosed in such a small space with all his energy.”

The image coaxed a small smile from Tessa. “That is true, but I still think—”

“No. What’s done is done. No regrets.” How many times had she told herself that over the past few days? It applied to this situation as well. “We need only focus on what happens next.”

“Thank goodness Viscount Weston and his grandmother are willing to help us.”

If only Tessa knew how tied Michael was to the situation, then she’d better understand why he was assisting them. A part of Emma couldn’t help but wonder if he was continuing to use her to try to find her uncle. Obviously, it was doing no good as her uncle hadn’t bothered to tell them he lived.

The pain from his abandonment of them had formed a crevice she didn’t think could be repaired. To think he’d leave them to survive on their own hurt deeply. Had he not realized there were nights they went hungry? That there were times when Emma had not been certain they’d be able to keep a roof over their heads? When the cold had seeped into their flat, leaving them so chilled they couldn’t sleep at night?

She swallowed hard, trying to push back all those memories. Somehow, she needed to do as she’d told Tessa. What had passed was passed. They had survived. And they would continue to do so. Emma had found a way to keep them housed and fed before, and she would do so again. Never mind the thought made her so tired that she was tempted to lay down beside Tessa and close her eyes.

Tessa’s breathing evened out as Emma continued to stroke her sister’s hair until at last, Emma was certain she slept deeply. As quietly as she could, she rose and returned to the drawing room.

“Your mother and brother have gone upstairs to settle into their rooms and rest before supper,” the viscountess said as Emma came in. “How is Tessa? I hope we didn’t tire her overmuch.”

“She’ll be fine. She’s truly enjoyed stepping out of her bedroom and seeing something different for a change.”

“Poor dear. How are you holding up with all this?”

Emma shook her head, amazed at the viscountess. “How can you possibly be so kind and welcome us all into your home when I left so abruptly?”

She smiled and clasped Emma’s hand. “I saw the list you found. I would’ve done the same thing in your shoes. How could you stay here if you believed Michael suspected you of being involved?”

Emma’s eyes filled with tears. “It means so much to me to hear you say that. But I still must apologize. You’ve done many things for me for which I can never repay. I’m sorry I left without speaking to you first.”

“You forget how much you’ve done for me, Emma. I’ve enjoyed your company very much. The house felt quite empty without you. It is truly a pleasure to have your family here. And I’m pleased to be able to help keep all of you safe.”

“Thank you.” Emma’s throat tightened, making it difficult to speak. She released the viscountess’s hand so she could give her a hug.

“You are a treasure, Emma,” the viscountess said as she returned the hug. “Always remember that.”

“As are you, my lady,” Emma replied, so grateful she’d had the chance to meet this amazing woman.

“Now, tell me, what would you like to do? Do we proceed with our plan or keep all of you hidden away here?”

“I suppose I hadn’t thought that far ahead.”

“I believe we should continue our normal activities unless something arises.” She clapped her hands together like a young girl. “This will be more fun than I’ve had in years.”

Emma could only smile, her heart feeling lighter than it had for some time.

~*~

Matters were getting more and more curious, Emma thought, as she entered the drawing room the next morning. Miss Catherine Vandimer awaited her on the settee, having asked specifically to see her.

Emma couldn’t imagine what the woman could possibly want, unless it had something to do with Mr. Vandimer. Even so, Emma had no desire to speak to her. But good manners dictated that she do so, whether she wanted to or not.

“Good day, Miss Vandimer.”

Catherine didn’t bother to rise, and the expression on her face was far from pleasant. Her mouth twisted in distaste as she scrutinized Emma’s gown.

Emma inwardly sighed, restraining herself from turning around and leaving the room. If the woman criticized her attire that was exactly what she’d do. “To what do I owe the...honor of this visit?” Emma asked.

Catherine took her time answering. “I had to speak to you to ask you if you realize you’re ruining Viscount Weston’s life.”

Emma stared at her in shock. “What could you possibly mean?”

“Surely it’s obvious. You’re spending far too much time with him. People are beginning to gossip.”

Anger brought a reply to Emma’s lips, but she held her tongue. There had to be something more to this conversation. What the woman said made no sense. “I’m afraid you’ll have to clarify that.”

“I know Michael far better than you.” Catherine tipped up her chin as though to convince herself it was true. “You may not realize that his one desire is to regain his family’s holding. Upon our marriage, it will once again be in Weston hands as it had been for centuries before.”

Ah. That explained so much, and in a way, relieved her. So that was why he planned to marry Catherine. “I don’t see how that has anything to do with me.”

“We both know you don’t belong here. You don’t fit in. You should return to from wherever it is you came.” She raised a brow, as if daring Emma to disagree.

Emma’s breath caught in her throat. Wasn’t that exactly what she’d convinced herself? That she didn’t belong in this world? Should she do as Catherine said and leave? Perhaps that would be the best solution for everyone. She stared at Catherine as she tried to decide what she should do.

A gleam came in the woman’s eye which Emma could only interpret as superiority. That smug look suggested she knew she’d won.

Anger rose unexpectedly in Emma, straightening her spine. “No.”

A flash of surprise crossed Catherine’s face. “What?”

“No. How dare you suggest that I leave to suit your purpose. I belong here just as much as you.”

“You have acted inappropriately and—”

“No, I haven’t.” At least not in public, Emma told herself. “Besides, my behavior is no concern of yours.”

“I should’ve expected this sort of response from you.” Catherine rose, her thin lips tightening. “You leave me no choice but to call off my engagement with Michael. It will be your fault that he’ll lose his family holding.”

Emma’s heart sunk as guilt struck. She had no desire to be the reason their engagement ended. What could she do? Should she leave after all?

No. Resolve filled her. None of this was her fault. As much as she worried she didn’t belong here, she knew even better that her family didn’t belong in their tiny flat which filled with coal dust each day. Nor did they deserve to go hungry at night.

“This is between you and Viscount Weston. I suggest you speak with him if you’re having second thoughts about the marriage.”

Catherine stormed out without so much as a goodbye.
Good riddance
, Emma thought. While she hated the idea of Michael not regaining his family estate, he would surely be better off without Catherine. He deserved a wife who would make him happy. A deep pang of longing filled her. How she wished things were different.

But she’d learned long ago that wishing brought nothing. It only made you sadder. In her younger days, she hadn’t realized life would be quite so difficult. Hope had kept her moving forward through many challenges they’d faced. Maybe it was time to let go of hope. It filled her with longing for things that could never be. Her focus needed to stay on what was, on the next step before her. And that meant this evening.

She needed to prepare for the ball tonight and decide if she could accept Lord Tagart’s offer.

This ache in her heart would fade eventually. At least she hoped it would.
Damn.
There was that word again.

Michael studied the crowded ballroom, wondering what the night would bring. Had Catherine done as he requested and called off their betrothal? Surely by now she’d told a few of her friends that she’d changed her mind. Such news would spread quickly. A man could hope anyway.

He knew exactly for whom he searched. He’d deliberately stayed away from his grandmother’s since delivering Emma and her family there two days past. While the distance had not been easy, he thought it best, at least until certain events had settled. His top priority was to keep them safe from whatever crazed plan Professor Grisby was attempting.

He looked forward to becoming better acquainted with her family. Patrick was an intelligent lad who was doing well despite the lack of a male role model in his life. Michael could certainly relate to that. His own father had been less than helpful in guiding his life. Tessa was a lovely young lady. He hoped she regained her health and intended to do everything in his power to make certain she did so. Emma’s mother had always been kind to him and was a pleasure to spend time with. It was easy to see where Emma had gained many of her attributes.

Which brought him to Emma.

Though he needed to wait a reasonable amount of time after his broken engagement before declaring his feelings for her, he wasn’t sure how long he could wait. Each moment with her made his feelings grow. Hence, his reason for keeping his distance. This was his opportunity to learn to control his feelings, to contain them so they didn’t turn into something disastrous.

But this crowded ballroom might provide him with the opportunity he desired. At the very least, he’d be able to dance with her. Having her in his arms even for a short time might serve to appease him temporarily.

Or make matters worse.

He was willing to take the risk.

At last he spotted her as she left the dance floor, her partner returning her to his grandmother’s side. Irritation filled him at the number of men surrounding her. Her entry into society had been far more successful than he’d imagined. While the knowledge should please him, it didn’t.

He eased through the crowd, greeting a few acquaintances, disappointed when no one mentioned his broken engagement. Apparently he’d need to make a few comments of his own if Catherine had truly failed to spread the news.

As he neared Emma, he couldn’t help but notice how animated those around her appeared, as though they truly enjoyed her company. They listened with interest to what she said and responded in kind. He wasn’t the only one who was attracted to her. Tagart was at the front of the group. Rather than elbow his way through her suitors, he moved nearby to where his grandmother visited with friends.

“How are you faring this evening?” he asked after delivering his customary kiss.

“Quite well, thank you.”

“And how is everything at home?” They’d been careful to keep the whereabouts of Emma’s family a secret. Extra footmen had been added to the household to keep watch and serve as protectors if needed.

“All is fine thus far. I hated to leave them to their own devices for the evening, but we thought it best to make things appear normal.”

“With luck, it will only be for a short time. Then you’ll have your home back to yourself.”

“I’m quite enjoying all the company. It will be far too quiet once they leave.”

“Your protégée continues to gain in popularity.” Michael watched as Emma smiled at something Tagart said, annoyed with the pang of jealousy that struck him.

“Indeed. I believe she can expect several offers in addition to Lord Tagart’s soon.”

“Tagart proposed?” Michael could hardly believe his ears.

“I thought she’d told you.”

“No, she didn’t.” A weight settled on his chest and wouldn’t release. “What did she answer?”

“She asked for a few days to consider.”

His gaze sought Emma, noting the graceful curve of her neck, the sparkle in her eyes, the hint of rose in her cheeks. Then he studied her companions, wondering which other man might offer for her.

In many ways, she was just finding her way, only now becoming comfortable in her new persona which fit her so well. He wondered if she realized that. It was almost as if the events she’d been through in her life had prepared her for this. Her confidence had grown in the past fortnight, making her even more attractive, more appealing. Obviously, he wasn’t the only one who thought so.

Uncertainty filled him, adding to the weight in his chest. Here she was finally coming into herself, and he selfishly wanted to keep her as his own. How could he possibly ask her to step away from all this and become his? She couldn’t make a decision until she’d fully tasted success, until she’d sampled what life had to offer.

He scowled, displeased at the thought. He didn’t want to wait. He’d done some sampling of his own and found her more than appealing. Why should he delay? Surely he could make her happy.

“Whatever is the matter?” his grandmother asked. “You look as though you’ve eaten something that didn’t agree with you.”

“It’s nothing. Excuse me, please.” He parted the group that stood between him and Emma, using an elbow or two when necessary until he reached her. “Would you do me the honor of dancing with me?”

She looked up at him, those brown eyes showing her hesitation, reluctance even. He couldn’t help but wonder why. “Thank you, my lord. Of course.”

She excused herself from her companions and took his elbow. An extra layer of reserve seemed to sit between them. He didn’t care for it but wasn’t certain how to remove it, at least not here.

The deep blue of her dress set off her smooth skin. The neckline hinted at the curves she’d so successfully hidden in the past, tantalizing him with memories of those lovely breasts. He forced his gaze to her face before his body betrayed him, only to realize she’d stopped smiling since he’d taken her in his arms.

“Is your family settling in?” he asked when the dance permitted an opportunity to speak.

“Yes. Patrick is a bit restless, but otherwise, all is well.”

“We’ve posted a few people to watch your lodging house, hoping to discover who was threatening Patrick.”

She nodded but said nothing more. The silence drew long, making him wonder at her thoughts.

“I prefer your laughter when we dance.” He smiled but she remained somber.

“You don’t have to do this anymore,” she said quietly.

“Do what?”

“Dance with me.”

“You think I only do it out of duty?” He missed a step at the thought.

“Don’t you?” She dropped her gaze for a moment before meeting his again. “Perhaps it would be best if we spent less time together.”

He studied her closely, desperate to understand why she’d said that. Surely he hadn’t misread her feelings toward him. The mask of cool indifference she wore made him long to kiss her until she kissed him back, until she held him tight, until desire gripped her as hard as it gripped him. “Why?”

She blinked as though surprised he’d asked the reason. “Because you’re engaged.” She paused for a moment as though that should be enough of a reason. It would be if that were still true. But it wasn’t. “In fact, your fiancé called upon me this morning.”

Hell and damnation.
Damn Catherine. How long would it take him to be rid of her? “What did she say?”

Emma looked away and in that moment, Michael knew he wouldn’t gain the full truth of the matter. “She reminded me that you’re engaged. In truth, I was grateful to her. I would never want to do anything to jeopardize your happiness.”

Her eyes met his again. His breath caught in his throat at the depth of emotion he saw there. He drew to a halt in the middle of the dance floor. “Emma, there’s something you should know.”

“Michael, darling.” A hand on his arm jolted him out of the moment. “I’m so pleased I found you,” Catherine said. “I’m sorry I’m late. I hope you didn’t miss me overmuch.”

Emma stepped away as Catherine took her place. Before Michael could say anything, Emma turned and walked away.

Michael had to draw a breath to control his anger as he watched Emma disappear into the throng. He shifted his gaze to Catherine, wanting nothing more than to put his hands around her neck and squeeze that smug smile off her face. “I don’t believe you’ve taken the opportunity I offered.”

She lifted her hands as though to begin to dance, but Michael didn’t move. He stood there with his hands folded before him. He refused to play her games. He would not be manipulated by her. Catherine glanced around as people began to stare.

She dropped her hands, eyes narrowing as she glared at him. “Surely
you
of all people aren’t going to make a scene.”

“I believe you’re the one doing that.” Never would he have believed he’d allow himself to make a public display like this. But he refused to allow her to manipulate him.

“Do you think you have the upper hand? Our engagement will only end when
I
decide it. Not you.” Her voice rose, causing even more people to stare. Her gaze took in the onlookers and a small smile came over her lips.

“I gave you the opportunity to save face, but that’s coming to an end. When the clock strikes midnight, your opportunity to end it will be over. At that time, I will take matters into my own hands.”

“Do you think to be so easily rid of me? I don’t think so.” The venom in her gaze only made him shake his head despite the brightness of her aura which clearly showed her success at whatever she plotted.

“Do not trifle with me, Catherine. You will regret it.”

“We shall see who regrets this, Michael. But I can promise you, it won’t be me. Meet me on the terrace at quarter past the hour. Then we will resolve this.” Head held high, she spun on her heel and left him standing on the dance floor.

Michael didn’t bother to watch her go. Instead, he moved in the opposite direction to where he’d spotted Ashbury earlier.

“Evening, Weston.”

“Ashbury.”

“That was a lovely bit of drama on the dance floor. So unlike you.” Ashbury grinned, clearly amused at Michael’s situation. “Making your life difficult, is she?”

“Annoying, not difficult.” He glanced at some of the other people he knew in the room. “I need some information to spread. The quicker the better.”

Ashbury feigned disbelief. “She refuses to cooperate? How surprising. Are you planning to make this unpleasant for her?”

“No. I only want it to end.”

“In all honesty, you may need to play a stronger hand than you had intended if you wish to make your point.”

Michael pondered Ashbury’s words, considering his options. Then his gaze caught on a man with a bright purple vest and matching stripped cravat. “Doesn’t Lord Thompson have a reputation as a gossip?”

“I believe he does. That should aid your cause. I can share the news of your broken engagement with an acquaintance or two as well.” He paused as he glanced around to find a target. Then his gaze caught on someone across the room. “I wonder what our ladies are speaking about so intently.”

Our ladies?
Michael’s gaze followed Ashbury’s to where Abigail stood. Ah. She spoke with Emma. The sight of her calmed Michael. With luck, soon Emma
would
be his lady. “I, too, would be interested in that, but first I must take care of this matter.”

“I’ll see who I can find to mention it to as well.”

“Excellent. The sooner everyone hears, the better. Remember, she’s the one who called it off.”

“Shall I explain how devastated you are?”

“Hell no. No need to lie anymore than I am already.” Michael crossed the room to where Lord Thompson stood visiting with another man.

“Weston.” Thompson turned to face him. “Heard you were searching for a meteorite.”

Michael frowned. “Where did you learn that?”

“Professor Embersley attended the most recent Association for the Advancement of Science meeting to ask if anyone had any new findings on rhodite. Said you and Ashbury had come by his home inquiring about it and also had interest in meteorites.”

“Did anyone have information for him?”

“One man shared that a substantial shipment coming from Brazil had disappeared. But that was all.” Thompson tucked his thumbs in his coat pockets and rocked back on his heels. “Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials.”

Michael nearly smiled at the perfect entry into the conversation he wanted to have. “I fear Miss Vandimer has changed her mind. We will not be marrying after all.”

“Oh? Terribly sorry to hear that.”

“Probably for the best.”

The older man, still unmarried, much to his mother’s dismay, raised his brows in interest. “How so?”

Michael couldn’t resist. He leaned closer to whisper in his ear. “She’s more demanding than most men could handle, if you know what I mean.” He eased back and gave him a knowing look.

“More, you say?” A gleam came into his eye.

“So much more.” Michael slapped him on the back. “Perhaps she’d be better suited to someone with your abilities.”