“How?” Cora and Mr. Purnell said together.
“If people know Cora’s story and understand what she and David have been through, society won’t shun you.” He put a hand over hers. “I’ve seen this before. People became more caring towards the veterans in the centre once they learnt their stories. I’ve met some very compassionate people in my work at the centre. I’m sure they won’t ignore you if they know how cruel Roxbury is.”
That sounded wonderful. A flicker of hope kindled in her chest.
“It’s not a terrible strategy. How do you think to carry it out?” Mr. Purnell asked.
“We have a charity ball next week here. Lady Kingsley has the centre’s cause at heart, and she’s very well-loved. I suspect she doubts Lord Roxbury, especially after what happened at the auction. I trust her, and if we secure Lady Kingsley’s approval, the others will follow.” Ethan sounded excited. “Besides, Lady Kingsley is the sister of Judge Quigley. I believe he’s dealt with annulments before.”
“Indeed, and he’s a decent fellow.” Mr. Purnell cradled his chin. “Lady Roxbury shouldn’t be seen though, nor should David. Officially, they aren’t here. The truth must not be shared, not until we understand Lord Roxbury’s intentions. My son Harry will keep David’s company during the ball. They’re the same age.” He flashed a proud smile she could relate to.
“What do you say, Cora?” Ethan asked. “It’s worth trying it.”
“If you trust Lady Kingsley, then I shall talk to her.” Jacob had mistreated her and David; there was the chance to build a strong case, and if both she and David would be free of him, the plan was worth a try. As for Lady Kingsley’s support, she was hopeful. The lady had seemed conflicted that night at the museum.
“Excellent.” Mr. Purnell stood up with the help of his walking stick. “If you need anything else, let me know. I’ll inform you of any news after I file your report.” He bowed. “I wish you a quick recovery, my lady.”
Speaking of which, she desperately needed the bandages. “Thank you, Mr. Purnell.” She waved and waited for him to leave before facing Ethan.
“There’s hope.” He smiled.
“Yes.” She winced when she straightened.
He was next to her in a moment. “You’re in pain. What can I do?”
It was a simple question, but her heart stuttered at the care he treated her with. She was starving for affection. She hadn’t realised how much until Ethan had taken her into his house.
“Would you mind bandaging my shoulder?”
The conversationwith Finn had kindled Ethan’s hope. Cora wouldn’t need to leave London, and he would take care of her and David. Everything else could sod off. He wouldn’t let a bunch of stuffy barons kick Cora and David out of England.
He prepared the fresh bandages to take care of her wound with a light heart. Finally, some good news.
She grimaced when she put her cup of tea on the nightstand. “I’m sorry, Ethan, but I need help to remove the nightgown.”
Ethan wasn’t getting any more comfortable removing her clothes. He unbuttoned the front and slid the sleeves off her shoulders. Yes, her injured breast had swollen further due to the weight of her arm. “It has to be sore.”
“It is. I feel more comfortable when my shoulder is bandaged and my arm doesn’t drag me down.”
He took the opportunity to probe the wound again. She didn’t whimper as usual and didn’t avert her gaze. A sign the wound was healing and that she was getting used to his presence. Her nipple was dark and swollen as the bruise grew underneath it.
He cleared his throat. “Sweet almond oil would help with the bruise. I trust you can apply it yourself.”
She flushed so fiercely her lips flamed a deep shade of red. “Yes, thank you.”
He carefully wrapped the bandage around her shoulder and breasts. When he rolled the bandage behind her back, she rested her cheek on his chest, leaning against him.
Emotion lodged in his throat. Taking responsibility for the wonderful woman in his arms wasn’t something he’d asked for but gladly accepted. It was almost a craving, a visceral need to protect her. It wasn’t only Cora. He didn’t have children, but David… perhaps it was unfair of him to consider the boy his son. David might not want Ethan’s affection in that fashion. But Ethan couldn’t command his heart. The feelings growing inside him were out of his control. Cora and David were carving their places into his heart, and he loved every moment of it.
He stroked her hair and coiled an arm around her waist. She closed her eyes, likely exhausted.
“My husband tried to kill me, and he’s plotting against me. I’m on the verge of becoming an outcast and risking my position, yet I’ve never felt safer as I feel with you.” Her breath fanned over the skin of his neck.
He shivered, so powerful was the effect of her words on him. For he wished nothing but to be her protector. He caressed her silky hair again, inhaling her sweet lemon scent.
“Keeping you and David safe is the only thing I want. I swear on my honour I will do anything to protect you.”
She tilted her head back, and the amber pools of her eyes, ablaze with life, held him captive. “I can give you nothing back. All your generosity and hospitality, I can’t repay them.”
