Accomplished In Murder (8 page)

But the greatest surprise was to be found in
Lord Litchfield, who took Absalom’s marriage in better stride than
would have been expected.

“It’s all due to you, you know,” Absalom told
Drucilla during an aside before her departure. “He’s a milder man
when you’re about. For that reason, I hope we can count on future
visits from you again.”

His words were oddly echoed by his father a
short time later.

“I hope your visit to Blackridge House was
not so distasteful as to discourage you even visiting our part of
the country again,” Lord Litchfield said during the carriage ride
to the depot.

“My household is a sober one at present, but
we would welcome the distraction of seeing you again at any time.
In fact, in the unlikely event I find myself in London someday, I
hope you will permit me to call on you. I realize there is a
disparity in our ages but, to be blunt, I find your company
stimulating.”

Started at this revelation, Drucilla glanced
at Aunt Bridget, who was somehow managing to doze against the door
as the carriage jounced along the bumpy road. At the old lady’s
feet was the basket of restless cats, too precious to ride in the
separate conveyance provided for the maids and baggage.

Drucilla said cautiously, “I fear you may
find me overly frank, my lord, but I believe candor is called for
in this instance. You see, I understand how your mind works
regarding matters of, well, courtship and matrimony. So I think it
only honest to save you a great deal of time by informing you
straight off that my family, though respectable, is by no means
wealthy.”

He smiled. “And allow me to assure you my
interest in this instance is by no means mercenary.”

Drucilla considered him. It was difficult to
believe now that she had once briefly thought him capable of
murder. Difficult and yet all too easy, for there remained
something in him that reminded her still of Southorn. She doubted
she would ever fully trust such a man.

Nonetheless, she surprised herself by saying,
“In that case, yes. You may call if ever you find yourself in town.
I’m sure my brother would be interested in meeting you.”

It was true. Lord Litchfield was the most
fascinating man of her acquaintance. Perhaps that was why she had
said yes.

Now she didn’t regret the invitation as the
train picked up speed and Lord Litchfield’s black cloaked figure
faded into the distance.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dara England is the author of numerous
historical, fantasy, and paranormal works. She is a graphic
designer and stay-at-home mom of two girls and a dog named Sampson.
Learn more about Dara by visiting her website at
www.daraenglandauthor.com. She welcomes reader questions and
comments, and her email address can be found on her website.