Buckler's Hard by Kelly Sahara

Author:Kelly, Sahara
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: england, historical, regency, steamy romance, hampshire, sahara kelly, solent, vampire sequel, calshot, bucklers hard
Publisher: Sahara Kelly

Chapter Six

Unaware that she was now firmly fixed in the sights of a certain nobleman, Mariah did her best to pursue her regular daily activities without spending too much time dwelling on thoughts of said nobleman.

It was a worthy goal and one at which she failed miserably.

She spent time with Nell, listening, reassuring and finally sending her home to a repentant husband. Nell's attitude had changed a little, as so many women found after a conversation with Mariah.

Trying to make sense of a difficult situation, Mariah simply pointed out the unvarnished truth of the frustrations facing everyone these days. She encouraged Nell to take control of more of her life and to stand up to George when he was sober, refusing to allow him to wander down to the inn. She suggested Nell talk to George at greater length, hoping that perhaps such conversation might deter him from seeking solace inside a tankard—or five—of ale.

Mariah knew George wasn't at heart a violent man. He was simply one of many agonizing over trying to make ends meet and angry when the ends remained far apart. He was responsible for a family—a heavy load to bear for a conscientious husband and father. At no time would Mariah condone violence, but in this instance she knew both parties. There was no need to spirit Nell away or summon the authorities on some trumped-up charge against George.

Rarely did Mariah need to go that far. The mere threat of such a separation was usually enough to restore domestic harmony. Occasionally, Mariah would drop the word to the innkeeper's wife about a customer who was not "himself" after a few too many. The whispers would spread and the offender would find himself without ale and with a few too many pitying looks cast his way.

Much could be accomplished in small communities by the power of the spoken word. No man wanted to be branded as a wife-beater. Especially when it limited his access to his friends and his social life. The repercussions were quite strong, since most men were cronies, as were their wives. It only took one hint of serious abuse and the target would find himself alone more often than not.

Wives stuck together these days, thanks to Mariah's "sanctuary" and her regular weekly meetings. None would tolerate her husband mixing with another known for continual bad behavior.

Oddly enough, Mariah had been able to welcome "other" women into the little circle with less difficulty than she'd anticipated.

And on this morning in particular, she was glad of the diversion. Two of the local ladies—those of dubious repute—had become regulars, driving over from Lymington for this gathering and befriending the simple country folk they met.

Lucy and Sal, residents of one of the few brothels in Lymington, were funny, enlightening and—because of their location—little threat to the Buckler's Hard women.

Thus they found open arms and smiles greeting them instead of the usual turned shoulder and the cut direct. Stunned at first, but needing the chance to relax amongst

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