An Unconventional Countess by Jenni Fletcher

Author:Jenni Fletcher
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2019-11-08T18:20:58+00:00

Chapter Thirteen

‘I doubt it’s so easy, Grandmother.’ Samuel folded his arms over his chest, his eyes narrowing suspiciously as he took in the scene. ‘I came to tell you it’s time for supper, if you’ve quite finished scheming out here. What’s going on?’

‘I resent the word scheming.’ Lady Jarrow drew herself up stiffly. ‘I was just telling Miss Fortini about a letter I’ve received from the Dowager Duchess of Messingham. She’s hoping for a reconciliation.’

‘Your grandmother?’ His gaze softened to one of concern as he turned towards Anna. ‘I hope it hasn’t upset you?’

‘No-o.’ She was touched by the almost tender expression in his eyes. He looked as if he genuinely meant it. ‘If it makes my mother happy, then it makes me happy, too.’ She paused ironically. ‘I mean it this time.’

‘I’m glad.’

‘Only apparently she isn’t well enough to travel to Bath so we have to go to her.’

‘We?’ He sounded surprised. ‘Then you intend to go, too?’

‘I think it’s what my mother will want...’

‘And I insist that they need an escort.’ Lady Jarrow chimed in.

‘Naturally. I’d be happy to accompany you wherever you need to go.’

Anna winced, catching a glimpse of the Baroness’s gloating expression. ‘I wouldn’t speak too soon if I were you.’

‘Why? Where does she live? The Outer Hebrides?’

‘Close to Derbyshire.’

‘Ah.’ There was an extended moment of silence before his gaze slid slowly back to his grandmother. ‘What a coincidence.’

‘Isn’t it?’ The Baroness tossed her head imperiously. ‘In fact, the estate is only a matter of miles from Staunton, but naturally a reconciliation takes time. These things shouldn’t be rushed. Personally, I think it would be best for all concerned if Miss Fortini and her mother stayed with you at Staunton Manor for the duration of their visit. You’ll be doing a service for each other.’

‘But only if you’re willing.’ Anna threw a pointed look at the Baroness. ‘If you really object, then my mother and I can stay at an inn. We’re perfectly capable.’

‘I shan’t hear of it.’ The Baroness stiffened indignantly. ‘Not when...’

‘Stay with me at Staunton Manor?’ Samuel’s voice was like granite. ‘After I’ve told you, repeatedly, that I have no intention of visiting.’

‘And I’ve told you not to be so foolish. Honestly, anyone would think that I meddled for fun and not for your own good. Now, I ought to return to my guests. In the meantime, I’ll leave Miss Fortini to talk some sense into you.’

Anna clenched her jaw, waiting until the older woman had gone back inside before slowing sighing out a breath. ‘I’m sorry. I’m not sure what just happened.’

‘My grandmother just happened. It’s not your fault.’ Samuel twisted his head to one side as if he were trying to ease a crick in his neck. ‘Are you really sure you want to go and visit yours? I’m starting to think they’re overrated as a relation.’

She gave a soft laugh. ‘I don’t want to, no, but my mother will and I need to go with her.’ She paused. ‘Only I get the strange feeling that your grandmother’s been planning all this from the start.

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