An Occasion to Sin by Eliza Lloyd

Author:Eliza Lloyd [Lloyd, Eliza]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2014-12-21T22:00:00+00:00

Chapter Ten

Victoria had no pride left. The Weatherby Ball was cursed as if the Erinyes had swept over the earth to punish all those who swore a false vow. Since that night, nothing had proceeded down the quiet path a London widow might expect to walk. And she needed help.

She would beg for Mr. Smythe’s continued assistance—she’d seen the determined streak, the high-minded sword-wielder resolved to bring justice.

Allain had a new wife and his presence would only cause doubts in others. Lady Michaud could offer no support—she would have sound advice but she could not deal with Papa’s instability nor would she have the wherewithal to search the globe to find him. She should not have to—it was a daughter’s responsibility.

Papa was ill and it was up to Victoria to take care of him.

But where could he have gone?

She hurried up the stairs to Mr. Smythe’s office. The office with its wooden shelves and dust motes and broad desks was a comforting sight. She was escorted straightaway to his office.

“I am sorry. I know I should not have come,” she said. He glanced up at her, his surprised gaze offering hope before he pushed to his feet and hurried toward her.

“Lady Doncaster. No. Please come in.” Joseph stepped aside as she swept into the room.

“I did not know what else to do.”

He took her gloved hand and led her to a couch, half of which was stacked with books and papers. There was just enough room for both of them. His shoulder bumped against hers and he took her hand.

“You know I will help.”

“It’s my father. I was at Rosendale Park today. Papa’s gone. Gone. How could he just leave? Harrison was supposed to keep me informed.”

On the return trip from Richmond, she’d sat in the carriage cold as a block of ice. The girls said nothing and the only thing she heard in her mind was Joseph. I must tell Joseph. He would know how to advise her. His words would be sound and logical instead of fraught with the emotion and terror she was feeling now.

In spite of everything, she loved her father. She would turn London upside down to find him this time and to keep him safe with her.

“The animals are gone, his valet. Everything. How could he leave me again?”

“I don’t know.” He clasped her other hand, his gaze bore into hers. “Tell me what you know. When did he leave?”

“Nothing. The footman at the door said he was gone, that Papa and Harrison had departed by carriage. Perhaps to South America. The house was empty with only a few servants. The footman said he’d left six days ago.”

“What would you like me to do?” His voice was soft, calming.

“Can we find him? Can we bring him home? He oughtn’t be alone, in dangerous and unfamiliar places. You saw him. You know he is not well.”

“Be calm. Your father is not unhealthy. Is there anyone close to your father? A family friend? Someone he would

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