And Then Love by Leenie Brown

Author:Leenie Brown [Brown, Leenie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Leenie B Books

Chapter 8

“All will be well,” Aunt Tess said as she came to stand near her niece, who was watching the drive to Willow Hall. “Mr. Dobney, Mr. Darcy, and Mr. Williams will all be joining us for tea. We will not be left alone with that man.”

Lucy nodded and swallowed. “I am trying to believe you, Aunt, but he is so devious that I fear that even the whole of the king’s army would not be enough protection.”

Aunt Tess chuckled. “He is not smart enough to out-scheme them all. I have always said that his greed will be the end of him.”

“Greed is blinding,” Mr. Harker huffed and added, “as is the desire to see the good in everyone. A lesson I’ve not forgotten since the last time I saw your uncle, Miss Tolson.”

Lucy turned from the window and looked at Mr. Harker in surprise.

“Have you not heard the story?” He tilted his head to one side and peered at her as if his eyesight were not dim but fully seeing. “He left the first time under a cloud of rumor.”

Lucy came to take a seat near Mr. Harker. “Mother said that he left to avoid being accused of stealing something.”

Aunt Tess began the explanation as she took a seat as well. “Two days before he left, there was a theft of some monies from the parsonage.”

Mr. Harker nodded. “Your uncle’s gloves were found in my study the day the money was taken.” He drew a deep breath and released it loudly. “I should have given them to the constable, but I did not. I believed it best to confront your uncle with what I knew, so that is what I did.” He shook his head. “He is cunning. His powers of deception are great, for I believed his repentance was real and that like Zacchaeus, he would repay his debt with interest as he promised. I kept his gloves telling him that they would be returned when he had fulfilled his obligation. I still have his gloves, and he has long ago spent my money.” He chuckled softly. “I dare say he will not be pleased to see me today.” He pulled a glove from his pocket and placed it on the table beside him. “The other is safely stored, but that one should be reminder enough of his past transgressions.” He leaned toward Lucy, a solemn expression on his face. “I shall exchange it for the things he has taken from you if you will allow it.”

Tears sprang to Lucy’s eyes, and though she was certain he did not see the tears, he patted her hand as if he had. “The Lord has provided for me through the years.” He gave a small shrug. “Perhaps He allowed the theft and my deception for such a time such as this.” He grasped her hand. “Will you allow it?”

Her head bobbed up and down as she tried to contain her emotions. “If he will accept it,” she finally said.

“Good.” Mr. Harker leaned back in his chair again but held her hand for a bit longer.

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