“Exactly what I mean, boyo. No strangers in the O’Brien household. We’re all family once ye cross the threshold.”
Eli threw his arms around Paddy and nodded.
CHAPTER 1
February, 1821
Mayfair, London
Elijah Norton sipped his small ale, watching his eldest brother, Sir Harry Walters, and his bride. Lady Matilda, daughter of the Earl of Darby, was finally Lady Walters. The couple were dancing, following a short ceremony and a huge wedding breakfast. She wore an exquisite gown of pale rose with an overlay of cream Italian lace, her blond waves upswept, and tiny red gems flashing as she moved. Eli almost hadn’t recognized Harry this morning in his fine deep blue tails and matching trousers, a blue and gray striped waistcoat, and his black hair combed back.
He wasn’t sure if the ton usually had dancing at their wedding celebrations. But he and his brothers had been raised in an Irish household where any celebration included music and dancing. No one seemed appalled by the activity or Nora’s accompanying violin.
It was early afternoon, and the Irish whiskey flowed, the shoes tapped to a country dance, and smiles were the order of the day. Eli had been wary of how this day would turn out, mixing nobles with commoners. When Lord Darby had entered the church, the earl had heartily shaken his future brother-in-law’s hand and announced loudly that he couldn’t be happier for his sister.
Eli had breathed a sigh of relief. The beau monde was a fickle group. But Lady Matilda, er, Lady Walters, was a prime article. A pretty face, a clever mind, and a patient temperament. Saints save her, for she’d need patience with the O’Brien clan.
“Not a dancing man, I see,” said Lord Darby, taking an empty chair next to him. He had the same blond good looks as his sister. His wife, an auburn-haired beauty, was across the room talking to Mr. and Mrs. O’Brien.
“Only in the privacy of the O’Brien parlor,” Eli said with a grin. “I was born with the terrible affliction of two left feet.”
“It’s surprising how many poor souls are born with such a deformity.” They sat in silence for a bit, then Darby asked, “Have you met my friend Lord Tamber?”
“The earl with the black hair who’s been ogling Honora?”
Darby laughed. “Yes, that’s him. Your sister is quite stunning. I can’t blame him.”
“She’s an actress, you know. Not quite in the same circles, and Nora would never consider being a…”
“No, no, of course not. Tamber values beauty and doesn’t hide his appreciation. He’s a great supporter of the arts, which is why I would like to introduce you to him.” Darby took a sip of his whiskey. “Miss O’Brien said you are quite talented at sketching people.”
Eli’s neck heated in embarrassment. “I’m passable.”
“Your sister used the word brilliant. Mr. O’Brien says you can create someone’s likeness with only a witness’s description. Have you thought of painting professionally when you quit Bow Street?”
“I don’t know if I could make a living off it. I have considered opening a shop, selling supplies and paints. Maybe sketch and paint besides.” Eli had more than considered it. It was his dream. The creation of new colors by mixing a bit of this and that, discovering another shade of blue or green that perfectly matched the model’s eyes.
“Shall I introduce you, then? He understands you’re employed on the Bow Street patrol and is willing to work around your schedule.” Darby waved at Lord Tamber. “Let’s see what he has in mind.”
The Earl of Tamber was a lean man, tall, with dark hair and pale-blue eyes. His smile was infectious, and Eli immediately liked him.
Lord Tamber took the seat vacated by Lord Darby. “My wife and I have decided it is time for a family portrait. Our son is now old enough to sit for short periods of time, and my daughter is but an infant. Lady Tamber suggested finding a new artist, someone who might need a leg up, so to speak.”
“I commend you for supporting London artists, my lord,” agreed Elijah. “I haven’t done anything formal beyond my own family.”
“This will be a great opportunity, then. Just as my wife hoped.” He spoke a bit more about the setting and a price. “I look forward to working with you, Mr. Norton.”
“Thank you. As do I, my lord.” Eli hoped his eyes hadn’t widened too much at the generous amount the earl offered. “I shall see you Thursday next.”
Before Eli could take a breath and consider this new opportunity, Paddy sat beside him, his great paw slapping Elijah’s back. “How did it go, boyo?”
“It seems my hopes for the future may be within reach. A few more wealthy patrons and I’ll have my shop before I’m old and gray.” Eli let the excitement rush through him, a crooked grin spreading across his face. “Nora made me sound like Michelangelo. I hope Lord and Lady Tamber aren’t disappointed.”
“Don’t let da doubt seep in. Ye know what Maggie always says.” Paddy wagged his finger as they both said,
“Every door opens and closes for a reason.”
“And I’ll say it again,” replied Maggie O’Brien from behind. She bent to kiss her husband on the cheek. Her round face was flushed with excitement as she smoothed back her graying auburn hair. “Nora only told da man what is true. Ye’ve been at Bow Street for three years. It’s time to look to da future.”
