Love Inspired Historical June 2014 Bundle: Lone Star Heiress\The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart\The Gentleman's Bride Search\Family on the Range by unknow

Author:unknow
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fluffer Nutter, dpgroup.org
ISBN: 9781460336595
Publisher: Harlequin Sales Corp
Published: 2014-06-14T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter Two

Mr. Chase had figured out the reason behind this house party. Evangeline could tell by the way she caught him looking at her when he joined the children for their tea.

The Amberwood nursery was a large, well-lit chamber that served as schoolroom, dining hall and playroom for the children. At one end it led off to the boys’ bedroom and at the other to the girls’ and their governess’s. Previously, whenever Mr. Chase had visited the nursery, he’d scarcely seemed aware of Evangeline’s presence except to question her about his children’s health or their studies. All his attention had been focused on Emma, Matthew, Alfie, Owen and Rosie, as if to make up for the time he’d missed with them.

In all fairness, Evangeline had to admit Mr. Chase probably spent as much time with his sons and daughters in the course of a year as many fathers who lived under the same roof. That did not mean it was enough, she reminded herself, seeing the way their faces turned continually toward him, like flowers to the sun. With their mother gone, the young Chases needed more of their father’s time. Matthew and Alfie could use his fond but firm guidance to curb their boisterousness. Quiet Emma and Owen needed the assurance that they were noticed and loved. Rosie just needed more kisses and cuddles.

If their father was too occupied with his business to provide the attention they required, perhaps an affectionate stepmother could make up some of what they lacked. Better yet, the lady might persuade her husband to devote a little less time to his mill and more to his family.

Those justifications ran through Evangeline’s mind whenever she met a reproachful glare from her employer. However, they did not entirely soothe her conscience. She had always been an open, forthright person. What would her late mother think of the underhanded methods she had used to maneuver Jasper Chase into remarriage?

He had left her no alternative. Evangeline returned his challenging gaze with one of her own. Besides, her matchmaking scheme would not hurt anyone. If it succeeded, the result would benefit her employer, his children and her...not to mention one fortunate lady.

When they had finished eating and the nursery maid cleared the table, Mr. Chase addressed Evangeline. “We need to have another little talk, Miss Fairfax.”

“As you wish, sir. But first I must take the children out to play in the garden then get them ready for bed.” By that time, their father would be expected to dine with his guests. She would be asleep long before the party broke up for the night.

“Then I will join you in the garden.” Mr. Chase smiled down at Rosie, who clung to his leg. “Would you like that, my love?”

Rosie gave a vigorous nod, making her red-gold curls dance.

Did he mean to confront her in the presence of her pupils? Evangeline’s spirits sank. Would he tell them what she’d done? How could the children understand, especially Emma, who cherished the memory of her late mother?

“I would like it too, Papa!” cried Alfie.

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