Did it not?
She recalled Arthur’s kiss and that heat filled her once again. His touch made her yearn to surrender everything to him, perhaps in exchange for nothing, and abandon her practicality for his satisfaction—however fleeting it might prove to be. How could one man, however handsome and charming he might be, have gained such power over her in such a short time?
How could he not have even tried to change his ways, just a little?
Patience watched the rain, and decided the issue was not Arthur,per se. She was simply overcome by a new experience. By the descriptions in novels, this was not an uncommon occurrence. Others had lost themselves in a haze of pleasure before. Was it possible that she might become accustomed to it?
So many experiences were wondrous the first time and less so the second. Would Arthur’s kiss ever become routine? Patience could not imagine as much.
All the same, she would welcome the opportunity to know for certain.
In fact, she felt a measure of dissatisfaction, as if something had been left unfinished. She did desire more of whatever Arthur offered, and she knew in her heart, that it was not simply knowledge she craved.
Yet she feared to err again. One detail was for certain, she had need of that book. If ever there had been a woman in need of intimate advice, it was Patience, for she had dissuaded the most notorious rake in London from consummating his nuptials.
She smoothed out the page that she had been granted and read it again, wishing for more of that volume’s advice as well as her husband’s sweet caress. On this night, she would be without both, but Patience would collect the book from Catherine in the morning.
* * *
Arthur foundhis solicitor on the verge of locking up his office. Mr. Sommerset welcomed him inside with a gesture and Arthur was quick to state his business.
“I have only a query for you, Mr. Sommerset,” he said. “I do not mean to delay you.”
“It is no matter.” That man smiled. “I am always prepared to be of service to the Beckham family. Please, sit down.”
“My wife has raised a question and I find I do not know the answer.”
“Oh, yes, you wed today, did you not? May I offer my congratulations, Mr. Beckham?”
Arthur smiled. “I thank you.”
“And the lady’s question?”
“Do you have any knowledge of printers and publishers, Mr. Sommerset?”
That man’s brows rose. “Strange that you should ask, sir. Are you seeking an investment?”
“I am. My wife would like to learn more of the possibility of establishing a publishing firm catering to the tastes of ladies.”
“Carruthers,” Mr. Sommerset mused, clearly recalling Patience’s name. “Of course. But would that not compete with the trade of her father and uncle?”
“She feels strongly about the appeal of several titles, but her father and uncle disagree. They have declined to publish the works in question, but I trust her judgement and would see the endeavor launched.”
The solicitor smiled. “She is reputed to be a clever lady.”
“And she is one indeed.” Arthur smiled. “I sense that you have a solution to share.”
Mr. Sommerset chuckled, then sobered. “You read my thoughts, as ever, Mr. Beckham. I am currently resolving the estate of Henry Parke.”
“Of Fanshawe & Parke?” Arthur guessed, recognizing the name of one partner of that publishing firm.
“The very same. He has no son or relation interested in entering his trade. His partner, John Fanshawe, wishes very much to continue the business, but has need of additional funds if not an active partner. We have been discussing the prospect of selling half of the business, if a suitable buyer could be found.”
“I should like very much to discuss this possibility with Mr. Fanshawe.” And with Patience. She would know the reputation of the firm.
Mr. Sommerset shook his head. “I must warn you that it would be a cash transaction, sir, for the assets of the company are heavily mortgaged. They had recently acquired new equipment and the investment is not yet paid. I would not dissuade you, but you should understand the magnitude of the expectation for a new partner.” The solicitor named a sum that would take the majority of the funds Arthur had hidden in the box in Patience’s room.
He did not reveal his surprise but nodded his interest.
