Page 36 of The Misfortune of Lady Lucianna

A whistle sounded behind them, letting Luci know that Roderick and Lord Torrington were in place, keeping a close eye on the trio from the shadows of Torrington’s father’s townhouse, directly neighboring the duke’s property.

It reassured her to know Roderick was close and would allow nothing to happen to her. He didn’t have to say it. After their time together the day before, Luci was confident Roderick had more in common with Lord Torrington than her father. He was not guilty of what she’d accused him of—escorting his mistress to the opera while betrothed to another. She would do what she could to polish his tarnished reputation. But right now, she had to keep her focus on Abercorn.

“Is this the best place to speak with him?” Ophelia tugged at her gown. “We saw what happened the last time we were in his home.”

“There is no other place the man will be as complacent—feel as secure—as in his own surroundings.” Edith and Luci had heavily debated this part of the plan, deciding that approaching the duke in a crowded ballroom or at the opera would not lead him to speak freely. “Besides, we have all agreed to remain downstairs.”

Luci was confident in their decision to confront Abercorn, even though Ophelia appeared so nervous she’d likely fall over at the littlest breath of trouble.

“Are we ready?” Edith asked, plastering a smile on her face, ever the fearless one since she’d fallen in love with Torrington.

“As ready as we will ever be.” Ophelia fanned her reddening cheeks.

“Remember”—Luci eyed both of her friends—“we are here to speak with Abercorn about his generous offer of marriage. This is a purely social visit with you both serving as my chaperones. Everything is above reproach.”

“Until we get our feet in the door,” Edith whispered.

“Exactly.” Lucianna grinned.

Their plan was as solid as it could be. After they had entered Abercorn’s townhouse and were led to a receiving salon, the women would make certain the drapes were pulled back, allowing Roderick and Torrington a clear view to keep watch over the trio.

If anything went awry, they would kick in Abercorn’s front door, if necessary, to reach the women.

Luci knocked on the door, and footsteps were instantly heard from within.

An elderly butler pulled the door wide, his eyes scrutinizing the trio.

“Lady Lucianna Constantine, accompanied by Lady Edith Pelton and Lady Ophelia Fletcher, here to see Lord Abercorn.” Luci handed the butler her calling card, determined that they not be turned away. “Is the duke receiving visitors?”

At the butler’s continued silence, Luci worried Abercorn was not in residence at all and their carefully crafted plan would be thwarted by their own mistake.

The servant finally stepped back, holding the door for them to enter.

Edith and Ophelia both sighed with relief.

Luci glanced over her shoulder as the two women entered the Abercorn townhouse. Roderick gave her a reassuring nod.

Their idea may very well be harebrained and without chance of success, but at least Roderick had enough faith in her to allow her the opportunity to lure the truth from Abercorn. There was no doubt Roderick had his own secrets. She’d be a fool not to notice the way his shoulders appeared to hold the weight of a thousand pounds or the hard lines around his eyes, a product of sorrow and loss. Or the way he analyzed everyone as if outlining every way they could injure him if he allowed them close.

Luci shuddered to think she’d caused some of that burden with her piece in the Gazette.

“My lady?” the butler asked when she remained on the stoop. “This way, please.”

Putting Roderick from her mind, Luci entered the foyer, surprised by the many candles lighting the area. It was certainly a waste of coins to burn this amount of wax on a daily basis.

The servant shuffled, his feet never actually leaving the floor as he walked across the foyer and opened the room to a similarly lit salon. Upon entering, Luci was pleased to see the drapes were open, and a clear view of Lord Torrington’s father’s townhouse was in sight.

“I will let Lord Abercorn know of your presence. His Grace will be with you momentarily.” He bowed stiffly as the women glanced about the room. “I will ring for tea. Do have a seat.”

He pulled the door closed on well-oiled hinges, leaving Luci to inspect the room as Edith hurried to the window and waved in Torrington’s and Roderick’s direction.

The salon was decorated in bold shades of yellow and blue, complete with striped drapes, polka dot pillows, and matching plaid lounge and stuffed chairs. The obnoxious sight had Luci’s head swirling at the odd pattern contrast and color combination. Upon closer inspection, the pieces in the room, including the tables, lamps, and wing-backed chairs close to the hearth appeared fairly dated. Even the pillow on the lounge was frayed at the edges.

This room had been appointed long ago, likely before Abercorn was out of the schoolroom.

Edith and Ophelia selected a low-slung sofa in sight of the large, arched window, remaining visible to the men outside, while Luci continued to stand. She was unsure why, but something told her standing was the best way to face the opposition.

And Abercorn was most certainly their opponent.