Page 14 of Lydia Acquires Adoration (Bennet Ladies Liberation #5)
Chapter Thirteen
The carriage ride back to Pemberley was not shorter or less arduous than the trip to Swarkstone Park, but at least it was less filled with uncertainty. Lydia knew what needed to be accomplished with the estate and she could begin planning. Facing her mother, she asked, “Do you think Kitty would mind if I stole the woman who has been training under her housekeeper at Matlock?”
Tilting her head, Fanny Hawkins considered the question briefly before saying, “No, I do not think your sister would be offended if you offered Mrs. Wilson the role of housekeeper at Swarkstone. I believe she was going to be wanting to take on a larger role soon, anyway, and Mrs. Belvedere will not be retiring anytime soon.” Smiling broadly at her daughter, she said, “Besides, I foresee all of your sisters doing whatever they can to help establish you in your new home.”
Glancing across the carriage at Sebastian, Lydia said, “I will write letters to Kitty and Mrs. Wilson as soon as we get back to Pemberley and we will at least have that one problem solved.”
He responded, “I am relieved that you had a solution to our housekeeper problem. It will be reassuring to know we will have someone we know is reliable and hardworking. That is, if she accepts our offer.”
“Oh, she is a dear, and very hardworking. Mrs. Wilson was widowed young when she lost her soldier husband on the continent not six months after they married. The then colonel knew her husband and arranged for her to find employment at his home estate. She has been working for the family for five years now and for all her losses, she is a very cheerful woman,” exclaimed Lydia. Glancing at the list in Sebastian’s hand, she asked, “What is next on the list?”
“The servants’ quarters need repairs.”
“That can certainly be put off. At least until we have more servants. There are rooms available for the servants that are in good condition. It was only the horrid Mrs. Netter who refused to allow them to stay in the nicer rooms as a way to make them know their place.”
Grumbling under her breath, Fanny said, “It just goes to show you that there are always big-headed people overly proud of their position in life in all spheres of society. Even considering the horrible condition of the house, I think the staff at Swarkstone will certainly do better under good management.”
With a nod of agreement, Sebastian continued, “Additionally, two tenant cottages require repairs, and there's a possibility of the need to replace a barn due to a fire. I think those repairs should be prioritized over much of the other issues.”
Fiddling with a ribbon that had come loose on her bonnet, Lydia wondered what the repairs would entail and how long they had needed fixing. Regardless of the issue, they would need to spend whatever necessary to care for their dependents. “Caring for the tenants’ needs will certainly help toward gaining their trust. Surely they did not have an easy time of it under Mr. Blakesley. Trusting us will be hard for them all.”
Lydia watched Sebastian’s expression grow pensive, his eyebrows drawing together and his lips scrunching together for a moment before he said, “I can see how caring for Swarkstone Park might be good practice for one day taking over my family’s estate.”
Lydia worried for him for a reason that she could not quite put her finger on. She found herself wanting to reach out and clasp his hand. “Do you worry about the state of you family estate under your father’s control?”
Rubbing at his eyebrow, Sebastian smiled weakly, saying, “My father understands tenants cannot do a good job of bringing in crops if they become sick from sleeping in a leaky cottage. Despite this, he maintains the stance that people he views as beneath him should only be given the most basic level of consideration. He does not believe trust is something he should have to earn or even consider. Respect and obedience are non-negotiable for him—he expects nothing less.” Looking to Lydia, he shrugged, and continued saying, “My father has not made the lives of the tenants at Turnbridge any easier than he absolutely had to.”
It took a moment for Lydia to take in what Sebastian had revealed about his father. Though the man did not seem as despicable as her own father, he did not, in fact, seem much better. It was no wonder Sebastian spent the majority of his time away from home. It was something that she had not expected for them to have in common. Casting about on her mind, Lydia attempted to find something to say to Sebastian. Something that might soothe his obvious distress. Finally, she said, “We shall start with Swarkstone. Tending to the needs of its people will give us valuable experience. This way, when we eventually assume control of Turnbridge, we will be fully equipped to care for its residents.” Reaching across the narrow space between them, Lydia gripped Sebastian’s hand. “Do not forget that we shall face it together and be stronger for it.”
Sebastian was glad that they had left Swarkstone Park as early as they had, otherwise it would have been much darker by the time that they had arrived at Pemberley. All in all, the journey to Swarkstone Park had been productive, if not slightly distressing. There was so much that would need to be corrected it was nearly overwhelming. However, with one sentence from Lydia, he had felt hope cement in his heart. She had said that they would do it together. That meant more to him than he had expected it would. Hopping down out of the carriage, he reached up to assist Mrs. Hawkins and Lydia down onto solid ground.
The late summer sun had provided them with ample time to travel. They made it before dusk had descended. There were several people on the steps coming towards them in greeting. Lydia wrapped her arm around his offered elbow and leaning into his shoulder as they walked. She sighed, saying, “I am that glad to be free of the swaying of the carriage.”
“Yes, the swaying of the carriage gets to be a bit much after a long, hard ride. What do you think about breaking up the trip next time and staying overnight somewhere along the way?” asked Sebastian, as he fought a yawn.
Not bothering to hide her own yawn, Lydia responded, “At this moment, I want to put off another long ride for as long as may be. I would say stopping halfway might work, but I am uncertain of the inns along the way. We can always decide closer to the date we move in.”
Sebastian's gaze shifted to Mrs. Hawkins, filled with concern. He couldn't help but think that if he and Lydia were fatigued, his future mother-in-law must be feeling even worse. However, his concern did not seem to be justified, as she seemed to be doing just fine. The older woman was bustling across the gravel walkway in a hurry. In no time at all, she was embracing Mrs. Bingley. Glancing down at Lydia, he said, “It appears your mother has more fortitude than I do at this moment.”
Chuckling, Lydia said, “When it comes to dispensing love on her children, my mother has all the energy in the world. I am uncertain if it is simply her, or a trait that comes with motherhood. I suppose I will find out once we begin building our own family.”
Eyes widening at her causal mention of children, Sebastian was comforted to know that she wanted children as well. He had tried not to, but had begun worrying when she said that she wanted Clara to stay with her until they had the nursery done up. He wanted his niece to only have the best, so it was certainly at the top of his list to get that nursery ready for Clara. They also needed to find a nursemaid or a governess that they could trust. Sebastian swallowed thickly before saying, “Was your sister’s visit planned or is this a result of our impending nuptials?”
Sebastian could feel the slight shake of her head from where it rested against his shoulder as they walked to the base of the Pemberley stairs. “Jane had always intended to come to see the new baby and visit with us. Though our wedding might have changed her timetable. Frankly, I am wondering about Kitty and Mary and Georgiana. I half suspect they will be showing up before the wedding. Though Kitty is probably great with child by now, I doubt Theodore will be able to keep her away. Mary and Georgiana are at Longbourn, so if they are coming, it will take them longer to reach us.”
Sebastian did not have much time to consider all of his future sisters-in-law descending on them before he was greeted by Darcy and Bingley, who had come over to shake his hand. Lydia left his side to go greet her sister, giving her a hug, and he was only slightly bereft at the loss of her warmth at his side.
Clapping him on the back, Darcy said, “Welcome back to Pemberley. I would ask you how things went at Swarkstone, but I can see you had a long, exhausting trip. We can discuss matters tomorrow if you wish.”
“Though I would be glad to review several issues with you, I do not think I could keep any facts straight right now.” Smiling ruefully, Sebastian admitted to his weariness.
Bingley, ever the cheerful chap, grinned and shook his hand, saying, “While I am not as versed in estate management as Darcy, I would be glad to be of use as well.”
Fighting to keep a smile on his face, Sebastian asserted, “With what we found at Swarkstone, Lydia and I could use all the advice you are willing to provide.” He knew his shoulders were drooping, and he did not much present the picture of confidence at that moment. He only hoped it did not make his future brothers-in-law doubt him.
“You shall have whatever advice and support you need,” said Darcy, his voice encouraging if a little serious. Directing Sebastian to the steps with a steady hand on his back, he continued, “My first piece of advice is to get some rest. You are in the same room. There is water to wash up and a light meal will be sent up. Do not feel the need to socialize with us. Just get some sleep.”
Grateful for the permission to rest his weary head, Sebastian nodded to the two gentlemen in thanks and moved to Lydia’s side. Touching her elbow gently, he drew her attention from her two sisters and mother, saying, “It looks like you are in excellent hands. I am going to retire for the night, but I would love to meet with you in the morning. Perhaps we can make plans over breakfast?”
Eyes sparkling despite the weariness, he could see she responded, “As you say, I am in excellent hands. I am fairly certain my sisters and mother will have me tucked into bed in short order. I will look forward to seeing you in the morning.”
Lydia blinked slowly as she stared up at the canopy above her bed. Despite having slept soundly, she woke up feeling achy and longing for a few more hours of rest. Still, Lydia knew she could not just laze about. There was much to do that day. Starting with breakfast with Sebastian. So she lay there, willing her limbs to move to get ready for the day.
Finally, Lydia wearily sat up and, rubbing her face, swung her legs off the side of her bed. Pausing, she gathered her fortitude to get out of bed. A knock at her door had her swiveling her attention to Oakley as she came in with a tray. Perking up, Lydia was quick to say, “If you have brought me coffee, I will be eternally grateful.”
“Yes miss, I knew you might be dragging this morning after the long distance you traveled yesterday, so I brought up some coffee with cream and sugar to drink while I help you get ready.”
Accepting the cup, Lydia took a sip with a luxuriant sigh. After two more sips, she felt better, ready to face the day. Turning to Oakley, who was gathering her clothes for the day, she said, “Bless you, this was just what I needed to be able to confront the day. I have a number of letters to write today, as well as plans to draw up for Swarkstone.”
“That estate is certainly in need of someone to take it in hand.” Shaking her head, Oakley laid out the last of what they would need to get Lydia ready to go downstairs for breakfast with her fiancé. Turning back to her mistress, she smiled, saying, “I am quite sure you and your Mr. Burgess will do a marvelous job of it. Once you get that crabapple, Mrs. Netter, out of the housekeeper’s position, I am sure everyone will be much better off.”
“Oh, I cannot stand someone of such a sour disposition, and she was cruel besides. You are right, the whole place will do better without her attitude permeating everything in the house.” Standing, Lydia gulped the last bit of her coffee down, feeling energized enough to attack the day. Putting her cup down on a side table, she continued, saying, “Right, let’s get me dressed. I have too much to do today to laze about.”
In no time at all, Lydia was dressed in a sprigged muslin creation that was both stylish and eminently comfortable and she was making her way down to partake of breakfast. Entering the room, Lydia was happy to see Sebastian standing at the sideboard, pouring himself a cup of coffee.
He looked up as she entered and, putting down his cup, came around the table to greet her, saying, “Good morning, Lydia. Did you sleep well?”
“Well enough, I suppose. I certainly slept soundly, though I always seem to need a day or two to feel like myself after a long carriage ride.”
Nodding, Sebastian smiled, his white teeth flashing brightly as he replied, “I am much the same. May I get you something to drink? Tea or coffee, perhaps?”
“Coffee would be lovely, with cream and sugar, please.” Going to get herself a plate of food, Lydia gathered her meal haltingly. She could not help but watch Sebastian as he prepared her coffee. She had often watched her brothers-in-law doing the same for her sisters. It felt incredibly special to experience such simple and sweet care. No wonder her sisters always relished it so.
Setting her plate on the table, she took a seat, only to have Sebastian approach her with the cup of coffee he had prepared. There was something interesting about knowing he was watching her drink the coffee he had prepared for her. While sipping the drink, she couldn't help but notice that it was exactly how she preferred it, which made her ponder whether he had guessed right or had been observing her closely. Realizing that Sebastian was waiting to make sure she approved, she reassured him, saying, “It is delicious. I will have to give you leave to prepare my morning coffee whenever I have you at my disposal.”
Giving a little bow, he said, “It would be my pleasure to prepare your morning coffee.” Moving over to the sideboard, he went about gathering his morning meal, only to return to her side and sit next to her.
For a while, they sat eating in companionable silence, until Sebastian said, “Have you had any ideas of how we can go about finding a good nursemaid for Clara?”
“I had thought perhaps of writing to Lady Derby and my aunt, Mrs. Gardiner, in London. Both of them have a number of children and even if they do not have someone whom we can take into service for us, they might know of an agency we can use.”
Wiping his mouth, Sebastian replied, “That is a sound idea. I will hope that we can find someone adequate in the time frame that we have before us.”
Tilting her head, Lydia pondered his statement for a moment while she chewed her latest bite of food. Then, swallowing, she asked, “What would you view as adequate? It is just now occurring to me that we might view what is adequate differently.”
Sebastian paused with his fork on the way to his mouth, then putting it down, he looked at her, his brows drawn together. Opening his mouth, he hesitated before saying, “You are right, that is more complicated than I first thought. The first thing that comes to mind is someone who will make sure Clara is cared for and happy. I am sure that we will spend time with her ourselves. I like how involved your sisters are in their children’s lives. I would hope for the same with Clara, but she will still need someone to care for the little things, like seeing her dressed and fed. What do you think?”
Tapping her fingers on the table next to her plate, Lydia considered what she wanted in a nurse maid not only for Clara but also eventually for her own children. Looking at Sebastian, she said, “I would want someone kind but firm when necessary. I would not have Clara spoiled as so many children of the ton are. Someone literate is a must. Tucked away in the attic, I discovered a charming rocking chair; it is practically begging for a fresh coat of paint. It would be wonderful for story time. The ideal person for me would be someone who has a deep affection for children and is fascinated by their charming idiosyncrasies, instead of being bothered by them.”
Sebastian nodded and replied, “I think that finding someone like you describe may be difficult, but you are correct. I would want someone who enjoys Clara and not simply tolerates her.”
“Good, I will put that in my letters this morning. Hopefully, we will get a good result back before the wedding.” Satisfied with their decision, Lydia took another bite of food. With all the letter writing she had to work on that morning, she would need sustenance. Hopefully, she would have the chance to spend time in her garden later. She wanted to see about taking some specimens to propagate at Swarkstone Park. As it stood now, the garden at Swarkstone Park was sorely lacking order and care, though she could tell that someone had once loved it dearly. Despite its neglected state, Lydia envisioned the potential of Swarkstone Park and was determined to restore it.
Kiernan knew he would find Lydia in the garden at this time of day and hurried to greet her before they both had to see to their various responsibilities of the evening. It did not take him long to spot her as she weeded one of the beds. He knew that the gardeners that Darcy employed would do the job, but that Lydia was fond of the task, just like Elizabeth was fond of her walks. They both seemed to need some form of outdoor activity to keep their spirits up.
Calling out so as not to startle her, Kiernan said, “I knew I would find you here.”
Looking up from her task, Lydia swiped at her forehead with the back of her wrist, before saying, “Kiernan! I had hoped you would arrive in time for my wedding.” She snagged the cloth that was next to her and wiped her hands as she got to her feet. Soon enough, they were hugging.
Leaning back from her, Kiernan realized that one day soon he would look down at her. He was constantly growing taller while she had stopped. Though she had ended up being the tallest of her sisters, despite being the youngest, it was evident that he would be taller. They were close to the same height, but at fifteen, he would certainly continue to grow.
Stepping back from her, he put his hands on his hips, exclaiming, “What is this I hear about you getting married all of a sudden? Not a word of a courtship and then news that you are marrying by the end of the month. I have a feeling that there is a story that I have not been told. I have not heard of any violence perpetrated by Darcy or any of your other brothers, so it cannot be too bad. Are you willing to tell your almost brother, or is it a secret?”
“You are right. There is a story, and I am more than willing to share, but let us sit first.” Gesturing over to a nearby bench, Lydia moved to sit and Kiernan followed.
Settling himself at an angle so that he could watch her, Kiernan asked, “So what had been happening while I was away at school?”
Sighing, Lydia said, “You may recall meeting Sebastian and Selene Burgess at Kitty’s wedding.”
Nodding, Kiernan said, “Twins with black hair and blue eyes that befriended Kitty and the colonel.” Kiernan still felt odd calling the man Fitzwilliam or Theodore and he certainly did not feel comfortable calling him the Earl of Matlock. When he had met him, he had called him the colonel, and it still felt right.
Not focusing on his response, Lydia continued, “Yes, well, not long ago, they showed up with their orphaned niece. It turns out that her father’s will said that whoever gets custody of the girl must be married.”
Kiernan instantly knew what happened. Lydia did not have to explain any further. Nodding his head, he said, “So you, seeing the need for him to get married, volunteered in order to protect the little girl. I assume there is some other family member that we are protecting her from. Some sort of dissolute or shadowy figure that cannot be trusted with the care of a young girl. Who I am guessing is at least a moderately wealthy heiress, despite her tender age.”
Smiling, Lydia affirmed, “You have it exactly.”
Kiernan could easily understand why Lydia had jumped feet first into marrying Mr. Burgess. While she had Elizabeth’s courage, she also was the youngest and used to getting her way most of the time. Beyond that, she absolutely loved children and the idea that someone was a threat to a child that she could protect would have moved her to act without hesitation. He had seen marriages based on less succeed. His parents had married for convenience and no matter how it began, they had found love in the relationship.
Trying to remember more of the man, Kiernan looked out into the garden but paid little heed to the blooms. After a moment, he said, “He seemed a good sort of man when last we met, so you have that in your favor. Then too, I am sure that Darcy and at least one other of your brothers have had a conversation about treating you well.”
“Yes, Sebastian was in William’s study for hours when I first suggested the solution to his problem. Elizabeth has not been overly happy about my choice. She wanted me to find a man, fall in love and then get married. In her opinion, I am taking a risk of never having love in my life, but I do not see it that way. I am just doing things in a different order than she did. I know I have Sebastian’s respect and support already. He is the sort of man I could love, and I hope he could love me. It will just take time and effort on both of our parts, and that little girl is worth it all.” Looking at Kiernan, her gaze full of anger, she said, “You should have seen where they had her, Kiernan.”
Jumping up, she began to pace in front of him, growling as she spoke, “They had left Clara in a grim, dirty room without even a nurse to see to her and only a few toy soldiers and not enough blocks to build anything with. A child of five alone! She hardly speaks and is only slightly coming out of her protective shell. I suspect that someone demanded she be silent at some point, and she took it to heart. Though Artie seems to do wonders with encouraging her to play, it will be some time before I think she will become the girl she is capable of being.”
Facing Kiernan, hands clenched into fists, Lydia huffed, but he could not help but laugh. Lydia was the epitome of a mother tiger who had finally been gifted a cub. It may not have been hers, but she was ready to defend it with tooth and claw. Standing, he moved to walk with her, saying, “It seems as if the estate has been badly run. I am assuming that you will be moving there to take it in hand?”
“Yes, it will be part of the custody agreement we have to manage Clara’s estate for her until she is of age. Half the staff abandoned their posts soon after they heard of Mr. Blakesley’s death, which seems odd to me, but he had, for the most part, ignored the estate as much as he ignored the state of his daughter. We will need to hire a number of people both for the manor house and the grounds.” Lydia moved down the path that would take her back to the house. It was probably time for her to clean up so she could attend breakfast with the family.
Considering how different this new estate would be, Kiernan frowned. Here at Pemberley and even when she lived back at Longbourn, she had been surrounded by staff that was very loyal to her and her family, but that would not be the case at this new location. It would take some time to weed out the disreputable and disloyal and to find good people to replace them. Glancing at her as they walked, he said, “I am not fond of the idea of having so many people there that you do not know you can trust. Do you still remember what I taught you last summer when I came home from Eton?”
Grabbing Kiernan’s arm and clutching him to her in a half hug, she said, “With as often as my sisters have found themselves in trouble, I would be foolish to forget how to protect myself and others if the need arose. Of all my brothers, I think you would have been the only one brave enough to teach me.”
Chuckling, he replied, “The others have too many fancy manors to have thought of it. It's quite silly, actually, considering how often you girls get yourselves into scrapes.”