Page 55

“I owe you a debt of gratitude, Sterling.”

So formal and stiff. Simon didn’t look at Chester.

Even now, when his son had almost died because of his petulance, was his pride preventing him showing genuine appreciation? Would he have done the same for Chester if their positions had been reversed?

Eden would’ve liked to think Simon would, but frankly, she doubted it.

Chester had risked his life for the son of the cur who had killed his brother. No question who the better man was. A scrumptious warmth spread from her heart outward. Had their circumstances been different, Chester was a man she could’ve loved.

Did love, though he’d never know it.

How different Simon and Chester were. Though both had similar backgrounds and education, Chester had chosen the nobler path whilst Simon stuck to his rigid protocols.

“I’m relieved he’s all right. Nonetheless, I’d have a physician examine him, Andrews. He has a few burns, and he inhaled smoke.”

Chester untied his neckcloth. He wiped his face, wincing when he encountered the raw places.

At last Simon dragged his attention from the burning cottage. He looked between Eden and Chester, a tinge of his former haughtiness appearing.

“If the offer to join the house party is open, I will inform my wife we are to attend.”

His enthusiasm matched that of a person about to have their coffin nailed shut. Nevertheless, he’d made an effort. That was something.

Chester inclined his head. “I’ll have an invitation delivered tomorrow.”

How would the Duke of DeCourcy take the news? His nemesis within Perygrim’s walls?

Perhaps Wynby ought to remove anything that could be used as a weapon including hairpins and toothpicks. Pickle forks too?

“I’d better see my sons home.” Simon lowered Prentice to the ground before untying his horse.

“Dr. Chamberlain is supposed to call at Perygrim at one o’clock. I can have him stop at Gablecrest when he is done,” Eden said as she pulled her nephews into her arms.

“I would appreciate it.” Simon nodded as he mounted. “Sterling, I can hold Prentice before me, if you can lift Timothy behind me.”

In a trice, the three sat atop the patient roan.

Prentice grinned, bending to peek at his brother.

“We’ve never ridden with Father before, have we Timothy?”

There were a great many things the boys had never done with their father.

For an instant, Simon appeared flummoxed. He looked over his shoulder at Timothy, then at Prentice’s upturned face.

“Is that something you would enjoy?”

“Yes, Father.” The boys nodded eagerly.

If Simon finally started being a loving father to his sons, then Briar Knoll burning to the ground was worth it.

“Walk on, Reuben.” He clicked his tongue and gave a final nod while the boys waved farewell.

Eden watched them until they were out of sight. Reluctantly, she focused on the fire once more. The cottage was so old and shabby, the fire was quickly reducing it to rubble.

“Are you all right?” Chester laid a broad hand on her shoulder.

“I should be asking you that.”