“Unfortunately, the father, who worked in a sugar refinery, was injured. They’re originally from Germany and had been in London less than a year when they were separated.”
“Hmm. One of my footmen is from Germany. I will ask him if there is a place Germans gather. I know that is the case for many of the immigrants in the city. Somewhere they can find familiar food and drink among those who speak the same language.”
“Thank you. I’ll take any ideas you have.”
“Allow me to speak with him while we’re waiting.” Bolton strode toward the back of the house and disappeared from sight just as a knock sounded at the front door.
Thomas opened it since none of the servants were nearby and found Frances on the front step. As their gazes met, Thomas was doubly pleased he’d come.
“Miss Melbourne. How good to see you again.” He gestured for her to enter.
“Mr. Sinclair.” She looked at him with surprise, clearly not expecting him to answer the door.
A servant hurried from the back, but Thomas waved him away.
“Please, call me Thomas. If I remember correctly, we were on a first-name basis during the house party.”
She smiled as he closed the door behind her. “So we were. I-I should like that.”
He wondered if her memories of their time together over the summer were as sweet as his. He hoped so. “I hope you’ve worn your warmest clothes. The outing promises to be crisp.”
“I did.” She glanced down at her grey wool cloak and black boots. In his eyes, she’d never looked prettier despite the bulkiness of her attire. Her face was flushed, her eyes sparkling. “I’m looking forward to it.”
“Oh? Not all ladies relish being in the cold.”
“I must confess that I don’t always, but when it comes to gathering evergreens, I like to think the Christmas spirit will help to keep us warm.”
“Excellent point.” Her excitement was contagious and had him feeling the same. “You obviously enjoy the holidays.”
“I do.” A smile lit her face. “The traditions, the special times with family and friends, not to mention memories of the past. What’s not to love?”
“You didn’t mention the food,” Thomas added with a grin. “That is one of my favorite parts.”
Frances laughed, and the sound echoed in his chest, lodging somewhere near his heart. He was even more smitten than he’d realized.
“What kind of food?” she asked, her gaze holding on him with interest as if she truly wanted to know. “Is there a particular dish you’re looking forward to?”
“All of it. Christmas dinner with roast goose and chestnut stuffing, and a bit of beef, of course. Potatoes, most definitely. Christmas pudding, mince pies, and wassail.” He shook his head. “You shouldn’t have gotten me started.”
“My mouth is watering already.” She lifted a brow. “What of gingerbread and figgy pudding?”
He touched his forehead as if appalled by the oversight. “How could I have failed to mention those?”
She laughed again, and his heart thundered in response. Did she realize that she had only stammered once and had yet to stare at the floor since her arrival? That had to mean something.
“Thank goodness you did as they’re among my favorite,” Frances said.
Another knock sounded at the door, and once again, Thomas opened it, this time to find Lady Tabitha and Captain Shaw.
Bolton returned while they were exchanging pleasantries, and Lady Bolton descended the stairs to greet everyone as well.
The earl advised Thomas that the footman had accompanied Bolton’s mother on an errand but said he’d ask him that evening and send a message to Thomas with any information.
They quickly settled into the coach for the hour-long ride to Burbridge’s estate on the outskirts of London. With warm bricks at their feet and good company, the ride passed quickly.
They were greeted at Burbridge House by the duke himself, whom Bolton had known for many years. The other coaches arrived, and after enjoying a cup of mulled wine to warm them from the inside out and well wishes from the duke, they piled into wagons for the ride to the forested area of the estate to begin their work.
Thomas made sure to remain near Frances and enjoyed every minute of her company. Her shyness returned when the other men were near, but Thomas was thrilled that she easily conversed with him.
