“He was probably right. I just hope having people thrashed in my front hall does not become a habit.”
“I should not think so, miss. This ought to send that low rascal scurrying back to his hole for good and all.”
Although she was not so sure, Clover did not argue. “You need not keep calling memiss, Molly. It feels strange for you to do so when you are in fact my teacher.”
“I was brought up in service, and ‘tis hard to break old habits. But I will try to be less formal. Ah, I just heard the front door shut. I think your man has done his business.”
Molly had barely finished speaking when Ballard strode into the kitchen. Clearly, yet again, it had been an unequal fight, for Ballard looked none the worse for wear. Clover noticed, however, that as he sat down to accept Molly’s offer of cider, he winced. He might not have gained any new injuries, but he had no doubt aggravated his old ones. When he caught her looking at him, he cocked one eyebrow, and she got the distinct impression that he did not want her toask about his wounds. She idly wondered how long she would be able to obey that silent command.
“Did you take Thomas over to Sarah’s again?” she asked.
“Nay. I tossed him out into the street. He had come in his carriage so his driver picked him up. Last time I had a thought to keep a scandal from brewing, but I didnae care this time. We willnae be here more than a day or two anyway.”
“A day or two? But the doctor said—”
“To take it easy. ‘Twill be an easy ride down the river and my kin can manage the wagons if need be. The boat will leave soon and there willnae be another for a few days, not one that can carry all of us and our baggage. Do ye have any reason to linger here?”
“None.”
Clover was a little surprised at how quickly and firmly she answered him. Although she was somewhat apprehensive about going to Kentucky, she had no qualms about leaving Langleyville. It was no longer home to her. Friends and family had deserted her. It was a little frightening to move to a place most people still considered a wilderness, but there was nothing left for her here.
“No.” Clover gave a short, mildly bitter laugh. “It was not easy to get Papa’s ‘oldest and dearest friend’ to let us stay in this house for as long as we have. He will be pleased if we leave early.”
Ballard reached out to pat her hand. “Money can turn many folk mean-spirited.”
“True enough.”
Ballard finished off his drink and stood up. “I dinnae have to meet the barge captain until thisafternoon, so I think I will take myself to bed for a wee rest.”
“How wise,” Clover murmured and met the look he slanted her with a sweet smile.
“Ye could come to tuck me in.”
“I think you are quite old enough to do that yourself.”
“Weel, ye could check my bandages.”
“If they are good enough to fight in, they are good enough to rest in.”
“Aye, ye are probably right.”
After Ballard left, Clover lingered over her tea. It was a minute or two before she realized that Molly’s gaze was fixed on her.
“Is something wrong, Molly? Are we to start lunch already?”
“No. Lunch is cold meat, cheese, and bread. I was thinking that you ought to be looking in on your man.”
“Why? He has gone to take a rest. I am sure he does not want me pestering him.”
“Miss, I was wed for six years. Injuries or not, if a man like your Mr. MacGregor goes up to bed in the middle of the morning, ‘tis because he wants his wife to come up and give him a bit ofattention.”
Clover blushed. “But he is hurt.”
Molly shrugged as she collected the teacups and moved to the sink. “I was certain I heard a hint or two. And no man is ever too hurt, not unless he be near death. It won’t do any harm to have a peek, will it?”
“No.” Clover stood up. “I am sure he will let me know if he wants to be alone.”
“He will. That be a plain-speaking man and you will be fair glad of that someday.”
