Caroline huffed. She waved her free hand in dismissal. “There are other things I wish to do while here.”
Both he and Brand laughed. Oh, she had an independent streak a mile wide, and every day that went by it strengthened, as did her confidence.
Brand winked at her. “You know, Cousin, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with you, and I’m so glad you’re coming to Ipswich. Somehow, I think you’ll have a great affinity for the area.”
“She’ll no doubt turn the village on its head with her intelligence and talents.” John couldn’t stop beaming. Never had he been prouder of her. Even now, a couple of the unused bedrooms upstairs contained many of her paintings as they dried and cured. Where the devil they’d put all of them remained a mystery, and each one was more beautiful than the last.
If only she’d cease painting him nude. It would prove embarrassing soon.
Caroline beamed. “I am quite unique.” The words were slow, but that only meant she was extremely focused on what she said in front of someone other than him.
“Indeed, you are, sweeting, and we adore that about you.”
Slowly, Brand nodded. “There is no pressure in Ipswich, and very little ton society. I’ll wager it’s a hidden slice of heaven in England and hope it stays that way.”
Before John could respond, the butler came into the room bearing an ivory envelope on a silver salver.
“A letter came today for you, Mr. Butler.” He extended the tray, and when John snagged the envelope, the man straightened. “Shall I bring tea?”
Brand grinned. “That sounds like a good idea.”
While his best friend and Caroline told the butler what they’d like to see on the tea tray in the way of edibles, John cracked the familiar green wax seal bearing his father’s crest. With a sigh, he pulled the letter from the envelope, unfolded it, and scanned its contents.
John,
If you could please return to London posthaste, I am throwing a ball in honor of your recent nuptials on the 27thof this month. I would appreciate your presence and the opportunity to know Caroline. I have already issued invitations to her family in London.
Westfield
The letter had been dated a week and a half ago, and the alleged event would occur in four days. At a normal pace, it would take three to arrive in London.
“Well, damn.”
The butler eyed his askance. “Will there be a reply, Mr. Butler?”
“No, thank you, but do put the staff on notice. Caroline and I might be leaving for London immediately.”
“Very well.” Then the butler left the room, no doubt to ponder with the servants the contents of the letter.
“What is amiss?” Brand asked as soon as they were alone while Caroline looked on.
“I fear our removal to Ipswich will be delayed by a week.” Without further comment, he passed the letter to his friend, who then read it aloud, no doubt for Caroline’s benefit, for she’d told them days before she didn’t enjoy reading. “Though, I really shouldn’t indulge him. What has that man ever done to benefit anyone besides himself?” As he talked, a hot wave of anger rose in his chest. “And the bastard has already sent invitations. I can’t very well let them go without showing up myself.” The bugger had probably known that and used it as leverage.
“What do you think is his real intent?” With a narrowed eye, Brand gave the letter back to John.
“I’m sure I couldn’t say, but I don’t entirely trust him.” He shoved the missive into the envelope and then tossed it onto the table. “Men don’t change.” Especially not my father. He hadn’t cared one jot when John had told him about his engagement, and he hadn’t attended the wedding either.
Why all of a sudden had he changed position?
Caroline patted his arm. She frowned. “Perhaps he wants to make amends.”
He covered her hand with his. “I’ve known him too long to think that. He’s a selfish man.” Without a feather to fly with as well. Unless the man was on his deathbed, and even that confession would provoke doubts. “This delays our removal to Ipswich. That is, if we return to London.” He glanced at Brand. “By all means, if you wish to continue on with your plans, I’ll understand.”
For long moments, his friend considered him. Then he bounced his gaze to Caroline and back to John. “As the saying goes, I do think there is something rotten in Denmark. I don’t trust your father by half, and I’ve never met him.” He rubbed a finger along his temple. “If you choose to go back to London, I’ll accompany you. After your father’s ball, we shall all go to Ipswich together.” His grin was tight. “I refuse to leave you behind.”
“Thank you for that.” John caught his wife’s gaze. “What say you, Caroline? One last trip to London before we take up the reins of our life?”
“Say goodbye to Cousin Andrew?” Her expression was unreadable.