Page 46 of A Secret Consequence for the Viscount

When Nicholas broke it open he read out the message. ‘Perhaps. He wants to see me again this evening.’

‘I will come with you.’

‘No. He will only meet me.’

‘So you are still hell bent on doing this alone?’

‘For now, Jacob. Until I need help.’

‘Very well, but Eleanor said you were feeling unwell at Lackington’s. She looked worried. She also said that none of your lost memories seem to have returned.’

‘Did she say anything else?’

‘No. Should she have? It’s good that she’s helping you. She is lonely and has lived a long time under the cloud of widowhood.’

‘Where did she meet her husband?’

‘I think you should ask her that.’

‘Oliver said he lived in the Highlands and Fred was adamant Edinburgh was his abode.’

‘They don’t know anything about her marriage.’

‘It seems nobody does. When was Lucy born?’

‘After Lucy’s father died. She was born at Millbrook House.’

‘I see.’ He felt a pang of sadness that the small daughter was not his.

‘If you hurt Ellie, Nick, I will make you regret it. She’s been hurt enough already. But I did not come here to issue threats. Tomorrow is New Year’s Day and I have come with an invitation to a small family gathering. Lucy, Eleanor’s daughter, has arrived from Millbrook and I am certain you will enjoy meeting her. Grandmama especially has impressed it again and again upon me that she would very much like you there. Your grandmother, by all accounts, was a good friend of hers and as such she feels some responsibility in ensuring your happiness.’

Family. In the light of his conversation on the topic with Eleanor that thought had him swallowing the rest of his brandy.

‘Thank you. I should like to come.’ As he gave his acceptance he was taken by the idea that for a moment Jacob looked worried.