“You will be losing more than that, lady.” He nodded past her to Sir Hartle and then to her three now-silent daughters. “It would be wise if everyone else leaves the room before we speak.”
To Melissa’s amazement, Sir Hartle chuckled and made for the door. At the threshold, he paused to look back at her and Lucian.
“Young lady, I will not lie.” His watery eyes gleamed. “I am greatly disappointed that you are to wed another.” His gaze flicked to Lucian. “However, I am not so old and scattered that I’ve lost the knack to recognize true love when I see it.
“I did love once,” he admitted, a look of reminiscence crossing his face as he slowly shook his head. “She was my first wife and I never have forgotten her.
“I wish you both well, and much happiness,” he finished.
And then he was gone, his footsteps and the tap-tapping of his cane loud in the ensuing silence.
“How dare you!” Lady Clarice flew at Lucian, grasping the folds of his plaid and shaking her fists. “You have ruined my stepdaughter. No one will take her now. Sir Hartle-”
“He will find another young miss to enjoy his Tudor home and his wealth.” Lucian disentangled himself from her grip. “Lady Melissa is no longer your concern.
“Though…” He paused to readjust his plaid. “I will have words with you. Alone, without your daughters in the room.”
She huffed. “Anything you wish to say to me, my daughters can hear.”
“I think not, my lady.” He turned to the girls, nodded once toward the door.
To Melissa’s surprise, they left. She started to follow, but he reached for her arm, stopping her.
“You remain,” he said, his voice low and sounding almost dangerous.
“As you wish,” she agreed, looking from his fierce-set face to her stepmother’s livid one.
“You tread on thin ice, Scotsman.” Lady Clarice’s features tightened as she watched him stride to the door and lock it. “I am not accustomed to such ill manners.
“Nor will I tolerate rudeness in my home,” she added when he returned.
“Cranleigh Manor will no’ be yours much longer,” he said, meeting her gaze. “But before we discuss the matter-”
“We have nothing to discuss.” Lady Clarice folded her arms.
“Aye, we do.” Lucian folded his arms. “We shall start with Brighton.”
