*~~*~~*
Entering through the back door to the kitchen, Holly was glad to feel the warmth on her face, and even happier when she heard the solid wooden thunk behind Richard. The silence that followed their entrance, however, was somewhat disconcerting.
“Don’t worry, everyone. He’s a guest of mine.” Holding her chin high, she swanned past the staff, all of whom—from scullery maid to head footman—were staring wide-eyed at the two of them.
Hoping he was still behind her, she climbed the stairs to the foyer and found herself face-to-face with Ferguson.
“Miss Holly,” he said, his voice ringing through the hall. “Your absence has been remarked upon by your Mama, who was looking for you earlier.” He paused. “And who might this gentleman be?”
She beckoned to Richard, and he moved to her side. “Ferguson, this is Mr Richard Hawkesbury. He was on his way to Rosewood Park when he had an accident in the forest and lost his mount at the same time. Fortunately, his injuries weren’t life-threatening, and he managed to find the Nook. He is going to need a room, a change of clothes, and a visit from MrsTrenchard, since he took a nasty hit on his head and there’s a gash in his side.”
Ferguson blinked, then nodded at Richard. “An unfortunate incident, sir. But a happy conclusion, one must hope.” He turned as a footman entered. “Clarence, would you ask young Charles to attend me?”
“Sir.” Clarence bowed and vanished.
Richard was impressed. Not only was this a beautiful and well-kept house, but it was also warm and welcoming in an odd way.
“Well, there you are.” A woman’s voice echoed around the hall.
“Mama.”
He could hear Holly’s indrawn breath.
“Mama, this is Mr Richard Hawkesbury.”
A beautiful woman walked from a doorway toward him. Clearly older, but elegant and with a face that would never really age, she smiled, a question in her eyes. He managed a cautious bow.
“He had an accident in the forest, Mama,” said Holly, before he could speak, repeating her carefully created story of his arrival. “With no horse and a head injury, he managed to make his way to the Nook. But obviously he couldn’t stay there, so I brought him here.”
“Quite right of you, darling.” She turned to Richard. “Welcome to Forest Grange, Mr Hawkesbury. I’m saddened to hear of your unpleasant experience, but I’m sure we can set things to rights for you.”
Richard managed a smile. “My Lady, I must apologise for such an unseemly arrival, and for my deplorable appearance. But as Miss Trease has explained, I found myself quite at animpasse. I am very grateful for her assistance, and for your kindness in taking in a lost traveller.”
The smile he received in return warmed his heart. “Not lost now, Mr Hawkesbury. Not lost now.”
“He has sustained some injuries, as I said, Mama. His head and his side. Mrs Trenchard should take a look at both of them.”
“Indeed yes,” she turned to Ferguson just as a young footman arrived. “And here’s Charles. I’ll wager Ferguson will want him to take care of Mr Hawkesbury?”
“Indeed, my Lady,” answered the butler. “I’m thinking perhaps the Vine suite? It has recently been cleaned, and might suit Mr Hawkesbury during his tenure with us?”
“Perfect. Yes indeed.” She turned back to Richard. “If you’ll go with Charles, sir, he’ll see you settled, and Mrs Trenchard will be up directly to tend to your injuries.”
“My Lady, I don’t think I need…”
She held up her hand. “None of that. You are now at Forest Grange, in our care. Be a good lad and go along with Charles.”
She turned to Ferguson. “I believe some of Ashe’s clothes might fit, since Mr Hawkesbury’s need a bit of cleaning.”
“I was about to suggest just that, my Lady.”
Feeling that things were completely running away from him, Richard looked helplessly at Holly, who simply shrugged, then whispered, “Mama is now in charge. Best do as she says, because she always gets her way.”
“I heard that,” laughed Lady Hazel. “And she’s right. Go and rest, young man. You look exhausted. Then, when you’re refreshed, you can tell us your story.” She glanced at Holly, then back at Richard, her gaze unsettlingly penetrating. “Because I’m quite convinced you have one.”
“Thank you, my Lady,” he bowed again.
Young Charles was at his side, but at that moment the front door opened and what looked like a shrubbery staggered in.
