The Earl and the Highwayman's Daughter by Maggi Andersen

Author:Maggi Andersen [Andersen, Maggi]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Maggi Andersen
Published: 2016-08-31T18:00:00+00:00

Chapter Nine

BRENDAN ENTERED his club. Having learned that Mortland was in town, he’d timed his appearance to create a mystery surrounding Eugenia. Tomorrow night, she would make her first appearance. Members of the haute ton seldom missed Lady Cheverell’s annual ball.

Lord Castlebridge hurried over from the group clustered around the betting book. “We wondered when you’d show yourself, Trentham. Playing your cards close to your chest, wot?”

His good friend, James Belvedere, joined them, slapping Brendan on the back. “It’s good to see you’ve recovered. Perhaps you can put paid to this ridiculous gossip that has been circulating concerning a young lady of your acquaintance.”

Brendan smiled. “I shall, Belvedere, old fellow. But first I fancy a game of billiards.”

“Gad, but you’re annoying.” Belvedere threw back his port and slammed down the glass to walk after him. “I demand you tell me the whole.”

“And I,” Castlebridge said, following them into the billiard room.

By the time Brendan had set up a game, a large group had gathered. “I see I have the floor,” he said as he chalked his cue. “Gentlemen, I have acquired a ward.”

“Ha!” Lord Burley said. “Why not call a spade a spade. A new mistress perhaps?”

“No. The young lady is chaperoned by my sister, Lady Beale.”

“I say. How did you come by her? Is she a long-lost relative?”

“I prefer not to say at this point. She hails from the country. Her parentage will become evident soon enough.”

“You are intriguing.” Burley grunted. “Surely she can’t be one of the royal’s by-blows.”

“She is not. You’ll have to wait until tomorrow night, gentlemen. We are to attend Lady Cheverell’s ball. Perhaps I shall see you all there.”

With a rumble of mild protest, the crowd dispersed.

“Playing a fast game,” Burley muttered and followed them out.

Belvedere took up a cue. “Must I wait also, Brendan?”

“Forgive me, James. I prefer it that way.”

Belvedere sent his cue ball down the table, striking first one and then the second ball.

“Good cannon shot,” Brendan said.

Belvedere cursed as his next shot went wide of the mark. He stood back from the table. “I suspect that when I see the young lady I shall understand.”

“You may well, my friend.”

“You’ve been out of sorts these last eighteen months. I hope this is a sign that you’ve returned to your old self.” He frowned. “However, I’m not entirely confident that you have. There’s a steely glint in your eye that worries me, Trentham.”

“Do not be concerned for me, I beg you.” Brendan struck the ball, sending the red flying into the side pocket. He was quite confident that, when his plan came to fruition, he would gain that elusive peace he sought.

***

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