“Miss Linfield. You look lovely.”
“Thank you,” she said with a shy smile. “It’s nice to wear something other than a nightrail, especially a gown that actually fits. Lady Aberland had several she insisted on giving me. Her sister, Miss Gold, was quite helpful in making the necessary adjustments so they’d fit properly.”
Daniel could hardly take his gaze from her. Now that her eyes had lost the fearful wariness that had lurked in their depths, they were even more arresting—a soft grey that reminded him of the fog over the sea.
She adjusted a shawl over her arm and smoothed a gloved hand along her gown as she glanced down at herself then back at him. “Is something amiss?”
“Not at all. I’m just so pleased to see you up and about and looking so...well rested.” Daniel silently berated himself. He’d stared so long he’d made her uncomfortable. That would never do.
“I’m happy to be feeling better. Though I confess I’m quite nervous about our outing.” She started to drape the shawl over her shoulders.
“Allow me.” Daniel stepped forward to help her, pleased to have something to do with the hope it would keep him from gawking further at her.
As the shawl settled around her, the scent of gardenias caught his notice. How had he never realized what a delightful fragrance it was? He couldn’t help but draw in another breath to catch it again only to realize Beatrice was watching him.
Aware she’d nearly caught him sniffing her, he searched his memory for what they’d been talking about. “Have no worries regarding our visit to the boarding house. I shan’t allow you out of my sight.”
“That relieves my mind considerably.” She took his offered elbow, and they made their way down the stairs with Sally, the maid, following behind.
Daniel had hired a carriage for the day, deciding against using his brother’s as his crest was visible on the door. If any unsavory characters were watching, he didn’t want to provide a clue that tied his investigative efforts to Richard.
Beatrice and the maid settled onto the forward-facing bench with Daniel on the opposite side. The carriage pulled forward, and he couldn’t help but note Beatrice’s interest in the passing scenery.
“Have you never been to London?” he asked.
“Once when I was young, my mother and I came to visit my grandfather.” She smiled. “I only vaguely remember it. Unfortunately, he passed away the following year, so we never returned.”
Her mother must’ve died a year or two later. But he didn’t ask as he wanted her to enjoy the ride rather than focusing on the past.
He pointed out various sights and provided an explanation when he could. Admiring the view through fresh eyes was a delightful experience. It made him want to plan a few more outings so he could see her smile light up her face. Would he have the chance to do so?
He would if she decided to find a husband rather than find employment as that meant she’d be staying with Caroline and Richard for an extended period. Yet the idea of Beatrice with other men didn’t sit well. The thought had him frowning as he looked out the window.
“Is all well?” Beatrice asked.
“Yes, indeed.” He managed a smile and forced his thoughts away from the concern. “Perhaps after we complete our errand, we could take a drive to see more of the sights.”
“That would be lovely.” Her eyes rounded with delight, making him wish he could promise her more. “I hope I’m not taking too much of your time.”
“I have nothing pressing this afternoon.” He had attempted to review a few investment opportunities that morning but hadn’t been able to concentrate. Not with the thought of spending time with Beatrice filling his mind. He’d much rather be with her than reading reports.
“I would enjoy it very much.” She sighed. “I admit that I appreciate having something to look forward to after this.”
Within half an hour, they arrived at the boarding house. Daniel viewed the dismal place through the window, careful to hide his opinion. The three-story brick structure sagged in all the wrong places with the brick deteriorating into rubble along the front step. Paint peeled from the door. Cheap lace curtains hung in one window but did little to soften its appearance.
The idea of Beatrice in such a place was terribly concerning. Had she been frightened at the look of the building or simply grateful to have a place to spend the night? A glance at her suggested she was already worried about entering, so he held back his questions.
The fearful, wary look had returned to her eyes, and he detested it, willing to do nearly anything to make it disappear. “Why don’t I ask about your things while you wait here?”
She hesitated then shook her head. “I want to see the look on Mr. Johnson’s face when he sees me. Then I’ll know for certain if he had a hand in the scheme.”
“Are you certain?” Daniel had no problem threatening the man in order to convince him to spill the truth. “I would be happy to share his response and save you the worry.”
“No. I don’t want fear to hang over me like a dark cloud. Confronting the man will surely help dispel it.” A determined look chased away the fear, making him admire her all the more.
“Very well.” He shifted forward and opened the door then hopped out, turning to assist Beatrice.
“We’ll only be a few minutes,” Daniel told the driver but hoped the reminder of how brief this would be helped to calm Beatrice.
“Why don’t you wait here, Sally?” Beatrice advised the maid. “This shouldn’t take long.”
Daniel offered his elbow, and they walked up
