Jack focused all his attention on Lady Astyr as if she were the most desirable woman in the world.
She lowered her gaze, clearly unused to such flattery and attention from a man. Still, he kept his eyes fixed on her face. “How do you like London, Lady Astyr? You strike me as a little lonely—perhaps homesick?”
“A little,” she said. “London is so noisy and different. I miss the peace of the countryside. But Sir Richard says we only need stay in London for the summer. Then we will remove to his estate in Kent.”
“Oh, he has an estate in Kent.” The muscles beneath Jack’s skin tightened, but he forced himself to relax. “My good friend Lord Hudsyn has an estate in that part of the country too. It’s lovely.”
“I miss Nottinghamshire, but I suppose I will get used to Kent soon enough.”
“Well, do feel free to join me for a stroll in one of London’s many parks if you are in need of some greenery before your departure for the country. Hardly a day goes by when I don’t spend two or three hours meandering through Kensington Gardens or St. James’s. I quite like an early morning ride in Hyde Park too.”
“I love to ride.” Her brown eyes took on a doleful look. “But I’m not sure it would be proper to accompany you alone. And Sir Richard isn’t fond of riding.”
“Lady Buntley often joins me with a party of her friends. I am sure she will be happy to accompany us.”
“Well, in that case, it sounds lovely.”
“Lady Astyr, how wonderful to see you again!” An elderly, ginger-haired man stepped beside Lady Astyr and fixed Jack with a penetrating stare.
“I hope I haven’t been gone too long.” Lady Buntley flitted between the two men like a colorful butterfly. “Mr. Jebkin, have you been introduced to our famous guest?”
Jack’s neck stiffened.Jebkin. So,thisis Percival’s father.
The irate expression on Jebkin’s face transformed into one of curiosity. “Famous?”
“Mr. Jebkin, may I introduce Mr. Jack Bastin, author ofThe Renegade. I am sure you have heard of the book.”
“I have, indeed.” Jebkin’s voice sweetened as though it tasted money. “All of England is awaiting your next publication, Mr. Bastin. I do hope you have an excellent solicitor to protect your interests.”
“As a matter of fact, I am in need of one. I believe I have already spoken with your son. We met at Boise’s Gentleman’s Club in St. James’s. Did he mention me?”
“Boise’s? My son? No. He did not.”
“Well, he made a good impression, nonetheless.”
“Did he?” Jebkin raised his eyebrows. “I am glad to hear it. Do consider our services should you need them in the future.”
“Oh, I will, Mr. Jebkin. I am considering them already.”
Jebkin smiled obsequiously and turned to Lady Astyr. “How are you finding your new home in Belgrave Square? Do you intend to transfer any furniture from Sir Richard’s home on Upper Brook Street before he sells the house?”
“I’m not sure what Sir Richard has planned for the house, but our home in Belgrave is already fully furnished. Sir Richard arranged things before my arrival.”
“Upper Brook Street?” Jack interrupted. “Are you referring to the house with the blue door—the one that has been left empty? I think it is rather lovely. I’ve walked past it several times, and I’ve thought how wonderful it would be to buy it. I’m on Half Moon Street at the moment.”
“Oh no, Mr. Bastin, you mustn’t move,” Lady Buntley interjected. “Half Moon Street suits you perfectly. I believe Samuel Johnson once resided there.”
“Not Johnson, his biographer Boswell,” Jack corrected her.
“Oh,” Lady Buntley said. “Well, that is still something.”
“Are you facilitating the sale for Sir Astyr?” Jack turned his attention back to Mr. Jebkin.
“Yes, as a matter of fact, I am. Are you interested in purchasing it, sir?”
“Perhaps,” Jack said. “Why is he selling, may I ask?”
“He shared that home with his deceased wife, and I believe he wants a fresh start. Am I correct, Lady Astyr?”
