A Lord In Disguise by Fenella J. Miller

Author:Fenella J. Miller [Miller, Fenella J.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-01-01T18:00:00+00:00

Chapter Nine

Penny was bubbling with excitement and even the hours in the uncomfortable coach did nothing to dampen her enthusiasm. She wished that the information she had discovered would allow Edward to resume his proper persona but at least she now would not feel guilty about the death of the unfortunate man who had already been dying.

There was one thing that puzzled her, why hadn't Bentley taken his own life? She understood that committing suicide would bring disgrace to his family name, but surely he could have arranged to drown himself, fall off his horse and break his neck, and end his life and suffering without involving Edward?

She came to the conclusion that using a Stonham as his executioner had been because of the long-standing feud between the families. It must have seemed like the perfect opportunity to destroy the happiness of those that they considered their enemies.

She was squashed against the window and she could barely see her maid or footman beneath the parcels they had stacked on their laps. She could have had these things sent with the order but preferred to bring them back with her so she could give her family some well-deserved gifts. The fact that Edward had paid for them made no difference as far as she was concerned, as she had taken the trouble to travel to London and then buy the items she was their benefactor and not him.

The coach was waiting to collect them and in no time at all they were all reinstalled and on their way back to the Lodge. 'I hope you enjoyed your short visit to Town? I could not have accomplished what I did without your assistance and I thank you for it.'

Thanking one's servants would be frowned upon, especially by Edward, but she had never held with convention and had always behaved as she thought appropriate. Papa had encouraged her to behave more like her brother and not having either of them there to support her would always be painful.

There was no time for further morbid thoughts as the carriage turned into the drive and she was home. She hoped dinner had been postponed as she was sharp-set, having not eaten since breakfast which was many hours ago.

Her sisters ran from the house squealing with delight like children. Laughing, she jumped out not waiting for the steps to be let down and embraced them both. 'I am so glad to be back. I have gifts for you all but they must wait until after I have eaten.'

'Mama has been complaining she is faint with hunger this past hour and dear Edward is doing his best to distract her,' Mattie said.

Penny was shocked that her sister was now addressing him so familiarly. Surely they should call him at least, Cousin Edward?

'What have you bought for us? Can you tell us even if we cannot look?' Beth asked.

'I shall reveal nothing. I had intended to change but if our parent is so desperate to dine I had better restrict myself to a quick wash.

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