Notorious by Thorn Mae

Author:Thorn, Mae
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fiction, Romance, Historical
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.
Published: 2022-03-10T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Sixteen

Delia’s pulse raced. Just this morning, she had been lounging in his coat, remembering his solid heat pressed against her. She willed herself silent and kept her eyes lowered as the men greeted the family and took the nearby sofa and chair.

Luckily, her mother filled the awkward moment. “It’s good to see you, Lord Carrington and Mr. Travers. How lovely of you to visit us. I took the liberty of ordering refreshments.”

Her hands shook at his name. Did he regret the affection he’d shown her? Would he expose her identity for deceiving him? What if he wanted to blackmail her himself? She clasped her hands tightly together to still them, and they became fists. He’d abandoned her.

Mr. Travers beamed at her mother as he slapped his brother on the back. “The pleasure is ours, Mrs. Wolcott. I found this sea-weary brother of mine at the docks and thought he would like to pay his respects.”

Mrs. Wolcott’s slate eyes shone. Doubtless she spun possibilities in her head. “Have you been in town long, Lord Carrington?”

“Just a few days. I was beginning to think I wouldn’t make it into the city. Our ship narrowly missed being boarded by rebels.” The sound of Lord Carrington’s voice forced Delia to look up. Their gazes met, sending a shock through her, and she snapped her eyes away.

Jeffrey cleared his throat. “Lord Carrington was telling me he’s here on business from his father and hasn’t found a place to stay. I offered him his old room if that is all right with you, Mother.”

“Of course, and I know your father would agree. He’s being pressured to take another boarder, but with Delia’s health…” She trailed off dramatically. “We didn’t want a rowdy officer stomping the halls.”

“I was sorry to hear about Miss Wolcott’s accident.” Carrington emphasized the last word.

Jeffrey narrowed his eyes at him but said nothing.

“I hope your health has shown improvement?”

All eyes went to Delia, and she studied the floor. “Thank you, my lord. I’m quite improved.”

“Oh, how thoughtless of me,” her mother said, nearly interrupting Delia. “Will you gentlemen be available for my little dinner party? I believe I sent an invitation to you, Mr. Travers, but I hadn’t imagined your brother had returned at the time. Please join us.”

Little dinner party? Delia had come across the menu that morning to find six courses. It was a gross indulgence during wartime.

Carrington’s face blanched as the conversation continued. “There’s no need to put yourselves out for me. I can find lodging. I would be glad to join your dinner party if it’s not too short a notice.” Mrs. Wolcott waved this off.

Jeffrey snorted. “Where on the street? The soldiers can’t even find decent lodging. No, stay here with us. It will be just like before, and that was no trouble.”

Delia held back a laugh. No trouble? Having Lord Carrington nearby could be nothing but trouble. She stole a glance at him. Did he think she would kill him in his sleep?

“Do stay, Lord Carrington.

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