“I’d be glad to, Lord Bridgewater,” he said, his tone respectful but edged with curiosity.
Stephen waved a hand dismissively.“Please, call me Stephen. After all, you are among friends here.”His voice was warm, but there was an unmistakable weight behind his words. Draining the last of his coffee, he rose from his chair.
“We can speak in my study.” He glanced toward Bella and her grandmothers as he prepared to leave.“Ladies, if you’ll excuse us for a few moments—I have an important matter to discuss with William.”
“Of course, Stephen,” the dowager countess said, her tone mild, though her eyes held a flicker of curiosity.
The same curiosity that stirred in Bella. What could her uncle possibly need to discuss with William?
“Let us consider our plans for the fête,” Grandmère said. “I suggest we aim to leave around ten of the clock.”
“I like that idea,” Grandmama agreed, with a nod. “Bella, what say you?”
“Yes, that suits me perfectly,” Bella said. The thought of spending the day enjoying the festivities outdoors sparked a sense of anticipation around the table, including Michael and even Lacey.
“I can’t wait to find out more about the pirate’s treasure,” said Michael as he slipped Lacey a rasher of bacon beneath the table—and not realizing all three women were smiling as he did it.
“I want to search for gifts we can give the staff on Boxing Day,” Grandmama said. “I know it’s still a few months away, but with so many stalls, there’s sure to be plenty on offer.”
“I agree—we’re bound to find some lovely things,”Grandmère said.“And I’m hoping to find a hat to match my new Christmas Day gown. I had it made just before we left London, and I’d hate to return simply to commission a hat before I can wear it properly.”
Bella, her grandmothers, and Michael were chatting about their plans at the fête later in the week when Stephen and William returned to the dining room.
William’s face looked serious, but his tone was even. “Thank you, Stephen. I will keep all of it in mind and appreciateyour taking me into your confidence.” His face relaxed as he turned to Bella. “I think we should be on our way, if we want to enjoy as much of the sunlight as we can today. I’ve asked Franklin, my footman, to accompany us. I hope that is fine with you?”
“Of course.” Bella stood, a broad smile stretched across her face. She had always loved riding and was looking forward to taking Winterborne out again, with William by her side. His support meant everything to her.
He furrowed his brow as he looked at his younger brother. Michael was wiping bacon grease on his trousers from the rasher of bacon he had just handed Lacey. “Michael, you promised to be on your best behavior if I left you with your…grandmothers.”
The two women chuckled. “We will take good care of young Michael. He’s such a dear,” Grandmama said.
Michael grinned at his two adopted grandmothers.
Leaning down, William playfully tousled his brother’s hair and brushed a kiss on his head. “Don’t get into any trouble,” he warned good-humoredly.
“I pwomise!” Michael said.
~*~
Stephen watched his niece and William leave before turning to his mother. “Mother, could you spare a few moments? There are some things I need to discuss with you as well.”
“Michael, what do you think about helping me choose where to put a new flowerbed in the garden?” Grandmère said. “I wanted to plant some flowers that were Bella’s mother’s favorites. And I know you’ll be a great help.”
“I’d be happy to help you, Gwand-mare,” Michael said. “Can Lacey come?”
“Oh, yes. I wouldn’t think of planting without her suggestions.” She giggled. “Besides, I think it’s time for Lacey to have a visit to her favorite trees and bushes.”
Lady Harrington smiled as she ushered Michael and Lacey out the door.
“May we speak in your parlor?” Stephen asked. “It will be more private.”
As they entered the parlor, his mother turned to him. “Stephen, you’ve been very mysterious this morning. What’s this all about?”
“Mother, I need to tell you something heavy on my mind for months. It concerns Lord… Baron Darkmoor.”
“This sounds serious, son. Tell me how I can help,” she said, sitting down and giving him her complete attention.
“It’s bad, Mother.” He combed his hands through his hair. “I have been gambling and drinking… and it’s been going on for a long time. The last time I spoke with Miles, our conversation ended with angry and bitter words exchanged. And I have regretted that every day since his passing. But despite my sorrow over Miles’s sudden death, I just couldn’t seem to stop gambling.” Stephen tried to quell his tense nerves. It was as if his entire body wanted to be rid of the burden of keeping everything inside. He heaved a deep breath, trying to pace himself. He did not want to overwhelm his poor mother—she had already gone through enough.
