Lord Phillip's Folly Read online

  The butler appeared at the door to his study. “Lady Orion is begging an audience with you.”

  “Seat her in the drawing room, have tea brought and tell Lady Manchester to come to me immediately.”

  “Aye, m’lord.” The servant bowed and retreated.

  Lady Orion was a dragon amongst the ton. This interview could make or break Penelope’s chances to find a good match. The door opened and his wife entered.

  “My lord?”

  “Lady Orion is here. We will visit her together. Perhaps we can salvage what is left of this season with a modicum of grace.”

  His wife nodded, and taking his arm, accompanied him to the drawing room. They entered and Lady Orion rose to face them.

  “It’s about time you made an appearance. I’m not a mad dog with a thorn in my paw that you should feel the need for caution before entering your own drawing room.” With a sniff, she returned to her seat.

  Lord Manchester gave a minimal bow of his head before Lady Orion as his wife did likewise. He saw his bride seated and then found a chair for himself.

  “Are we awaiting tea or may I simply state my business?” Lady Orion said.

  The door opened and the tea tray appeared. Lady Manchester poured. Lord Manchester tugged at his cravat and clenched his teeth as he waited for their visitor to speak.

  She took a bite of cake and gave his wife a nod. “You have a wonderful chef.”

  “Thank you, my lady. Why have you chosen to grace us with your presence?” Lady Manchester asked.

  “I have been waiting for your son and his lovely bride to reappear in London. In spite of their hasty marriage, I wonder why you have not yet hosted a ball to welcome the lovely Elizabeth into the bosom of your family. Your son has done you great credit for many years now and it seems you have once again overlooked him. It appears he could use the assistance of his father, a great earl, and his mother, one of the premier hostesses of the ton, to establish your new daughter-in-law firmly under the Manchester umbrella of protection.”

  Lord Manchester sat stunned. This lady was taking him to task for not being a good father? How dare she!

  His wife spoke. “I’m at a bit of a loss here, Lady Orion, but in what ways do you believe Phillip has done credit to his heritage? He has always gone his own way, much like many of the young bucks of society. Aimless and frivolous in his activities.”

  The matron sitting across from them shook her head as if in pity on them.

  The earl was ready to burst.

  “Do you see your son as a wastrel and a womanizer?” Lady Orion asked. “No. Do not answer me yet. I am well aware of his reputation in his younger days. But in recent years he has become the proud owner of Stanton Hall up in Milton Mowbray in Leicestershire. I hear it is a tidy and profitable estate. Were you aware that he’d been investing his allowance, and those investments have contributed to his wealth?”

  Lord Manchester could stay quiet no longer. “Where do you come by your information? My sister left him a paltry estate up north. Nothing of repute. How could what you say be true?”

  Lady Orion smiled. “There has been little to hear of your son’s activities over the past five seasons, so I set out to discover what secrets he held. His pristine appearance and the lack of rumors surrounding him for the past few years piqued my interest. He has been living in such a circumspect way I suspected he was hiding something scandalous. Instead, I discovered a young man who has quietly turned his life and income around to become one of the premier gentlemen of the ton.

  “He has been treated as such by most matrons and was lauded, before his marriage, as a highly eligible parti for a woman not seeking a title. From my understanding, Phillip could teach you and Lord Anthony a thing or two about managing estates and investments. His success in such a short time puts yours to shame, my lord.”

  Lady Manchester’s hand flew to her chest. “We love Phillip. Why have we never heard any of this before?”

  “Perhaps you’ve chosen to see him as he used to be, a scapegrace, as many young bucks fresh on the town from college are. He keeps honorable company which I’m sure has helped. I strongly encourage you to support your son and his new wife. Life is too short to be harbouring resentments. Lord and Mrs. Westcombe need your support if they are to weather the storm amongst the ton, which is by no means over. You owe it to your son and your future grandchildren.”

  Lady Manchester glanced at her husband and mouthed the word, ‘grandchildren?’

  Lord Manchester turned to their guest. “Why are you so concerned with our family affairs?”

  “Unbeknownst to Lord Follett or his daughter, Lady Maria Follett was my dearest friend in finishing school. Before her death, she wrote a strange letter asking me to look after the future of her daughter should anything happen to Maria. Up until Elizabeth’s advent here in town I’ve been denied access to her by her father. I am desirous of fulfilling my promise to her mother. I want to see Mrs. Westcombe gain the appropriate entrée to the beau monde. She will need all the help she can get with the dust Lord Wolton stirred up.

  “I could do this on my own but it would look peculiar if I did so without your equal or primary participation. As you are an Earl, your approval has more weight than my own considerable influence.”

  “I thought the gossip had died down,” Lady Manchester said.

  “My dear Countess. The gossip will spring to life the minute they arrive back in town. If it is not dealt with, it will take on a life of its own and be more difficult for them to overcome. It will tarnish you and your daughter as well. Now that you understand the truth of the matter, will you, or will you not, hold a ball to celebrate your son’s nuptials and welcome his new bride to your family?”

  Lord Manchester glanced to his wife for approval of this proposal. They could well afford the expense but it would fall on her shoulders to plan and execute such an event.

  She finally spoke up. “Of course, we will host a ball at the beginning of the little season. I will work to get the invitations ready and sent to summer estates so that our guests are prepared to arrive in town in time for the event. I will send for Phillip and his, um, er, bride.”

  “You mean your daughter-in-law, Mrs. Elizabeth Westcombe. She is a most delightful young lady if you were to take the time to become acquainted with her. Your son has chosen wisely and I could not be more satisfied with the match if I were her own mother.” Lady Orion rose to her feet. “You may remain seated. I’ll see myself out. Our interview is done.“ With head held high and back stiff, she strode from the room.

  The door to outside opened and closed.

  They were now alone.

  Lady Manchester rose from her seat. “Well, my dear, it seems I have a ball to plan.”

  “Yes, we do, and I believe we owe our son and his bride an apology for our treatment of them when they were here last.”

  The Countess nodded. “The ball will be easier to accomplish. Phillip can be stubborn.”

  “Do you think he’ll forgive us?”

  “I certainly hope so.”

  13

  Phillip strode into the library to discover his wife curled up in a chair with her feet tucked underneath her as she read a novel. She looked up and smiled at him. He went to her and placed a kiss on her cheek before finding a chair for himself.

  “Can we talk for a few minutes?”

  “Yes.” Beth put a piece of yarn in between the pages and set the book aside. “Did something happen?”

  “A letter arrived this morning.” He paused as he tapped the folded pages on his knee. “It’s from my parents.”

  She sat up straighter. “Oh. What did they write?”

  “I’ve been afraid to open it.”

  “Phillip. You have stood on your own for years without their approval. Why would their lack of enthusiasm over our hasty wedding surprise you?”

  “I had somehow hoped that in time they would discover I’m not the useless son they used to think I was. That I had grown into
a gentleman I hoped they could be proud of. I’ve tried to live my life in a way that would honor my heritage and name.”

  “Noble goals to be sure, but sometimes parents are blind to the realities around them. I doubt my father realizes the abuses I suffered at the hands of Wolton and others.”

  Phillip clenched his jaw tight. After hearing the heartbreaking details of all she’d endured in her father’s home, he burned with anger and a desire for justice. They discussed their need to forgive, but the rage would overtake him at times like these. He gave a sigh and gazed into his wife’s emerald eyes. “I’m not very good with this, Beth. I’m sorry. I fear if I were to see your father or Lord Wolton right now, I’d be tempted to kill them both. It is wrong…but they were wrong…”

  “There is nothing you can do to bring back my childhood or innocence. All I need for justice is for you to love me as I am. God blessed me by bringing you to me. I never dreamed someone would love me as well as you do.” She reached out a hand to grab the letter but he pulled it away. She grinned. “Do I need to fight you for it?” She moved to slip on her shoes.

  Phillip held the letter further out of her reach. “I dare you to try.”

  “Those are fighting words, my lord.” She stood as did he and they moved around each other. She jumped to try to grab the letter out of his fingers and he laughed at her failed attempt. She stopped and stood still in front of him, pondering.

  He grew suspicious. “Ready to give up?”

  “Not on your life.” She gave him a sly smile that made his heart flip. She reached up to touch his nose, traced her finger down, along his chin, and then slowly down his neck under his cravat.

  Phillip squirmed. “You’re trying to trick me. It won’t work.”

  “No?”

  She continued to move her finger over the sensitive spot between his ear and shoulder, while the other one came up his side toward where his arm was raised high above her. Slowly her hand moved and Phillip grimaced in his attempt to withstand the onslaught. She knew his ticklish spots. Soon he lowered his arm to stop her fingers from touching him underneath his coat. She grabbed the letter and moved around behind the settee.

  Phillip chuckled. “Fine. You won that round, but you will pay later.”

  “Is that a promise or a threat?”

  “Both.”

  “I look forward to it.” She considered the paper she held, running her finger over the seal. “Shall I?”

  “Please do. I don’t have the courage to read the words alone. You may have the honor.” He collapsed into a chair and waited as she walked around to sit across from him. “Let’s get it over with.”

  Beth broke the seal with her fingernail. Opening the foolscap, she stared at the page. “Are you sure?”

  He nodded.

  “I think this might be your mother’s handwriting.”

  Dearest Phillip,

  Your father and I regret how we treated you and your new bride when you last visited us. To say that your wedding was a shock is mild. However, you are our son and we love you and recognize our error in not extending that same love and acceptance to your wife. We hope in time you will find it in your heart to forgive us for being foolish in this regard.

  We would, with your permission, like to hold a ball in honor of your marriage, the second week in September. Please inform us if this would be agreeable to you and Elizabeth.

  Fondest regards,

  Lady Manchester

  Elizabeth set the paper down.

  “Stiff and formal. I suspected no less from Mother.” Phillip reached for the pages and read the script himself. “I should be grateful, right? It’s something. I’ve never heard my parents apologize or admit wrongdoing for anything in all my years. But here she has done so on paper. Unbelievable.”

  “She wants to give a ball. This may be the opportunity we’ve looked for to engage Wolton.”

  “I’d prefer we leave the continent than to seek out this man and risk your life.”

  “And what about yours, Phillip? Yours might be in more danger than mine. Do you think I would willingly give you up?” She rose and eased her way onto his lap.

  His arm went around her, holding her tight as if she could disappear in any moment. He bent his head into her chest and her steady heartbeat forced him to calm down. “Do we dare use my parents’ ball, in our honor, for such a thing?”

  “It would be the highlight of the season to be sure, topping my disappearance at your sister’s come-out.” Elizabeth kissed his hair and hugged him in return.

  He looked up at her and their lips met. Breaking away Elizabeth whispered, “I remember seeing a tall, handsome blond rogue, with sparkling blue eyes. He cast every man there in the shade. When he glanced my way, it sent shivers all the way to my toes.”

  “Really? Does he still do that?” Phillip grinned.

  “Most definitely.” She leaned forward for another kiss.

  The letter was forgotten for the nonce.

  ~*~

  Phillip escorted Beth for a walk in the gardens. She enjoyed his presence and this slower pace of life where they could enjoy being together. He carried a gun in his coat, just in case. She teased him about his overprotectiveness, but inwardly the fact it was there gave her a sense of safety she’d lived for too long without. Hoofbeats racing to the house put him on high alert.

  “I wonder who is coming?” she asked.

  “We should go inside.”

  “Wolton won’t ride up and snatch me. It’s probably one of your friends.” She started down the path, dragging him behind her, toward the front of the manor.

  “Michael?” Phillip stared.

  “Is this your lovely bride, Phillip?” Michael dismounted from his horse as a groom ran out to take it to the stables.

  “Beth, this is Sir Michael Tidley, a rascal and a friend. Michael, may I introduce Mrs. Elizabeth Westcombe.”

  “Ah, dear Mrs. Westcombe. I didn’t think you could be lovelier than I remembered, but obviously, my mind is faulty for here you are, glowing, and casting the roses in the shade.”

  Phillip growled.

  “You are too kind, but I should warn you, since my attack Phillip has become a fierce protector and I don’t think he likes your flattery. Maybe I should be offended that he doesn’t agree?” Her eyebrows rose.

  Michael’s head fell back as he laughed. “Oh, Phillip. She has you wound up tight.” He strode to Beth and placed a kiss on her cheek. “Well met, Beth.” He reached out a hand and Phillip shook it.

  Turning back to Beth, the knight grinned and whispered, “And don’t worry, in spite of my diminutive height, I’m quite the scrapper in a fight, as Phillip knows all too well.” With a wink, he stepped back. “I’m off to find my quarters and see about cleaning up before dinner. I suspect Theo will arrive on the morrow.” He went up the steps and disappeared from sight.

  “I like your friends, Phillip. You’ve chosen well.”

  “As long as you love me best.”

  “Could you have any doubts? Do you need to be reminded?”

  “Always.” He wiggled his eyebrows.

  “Naughty boy. Come with me then.” She led him into the house to their room.

  ~*~

  The dinner bell rang. “Hurry up, Phillip. We’ll be late.” She tugged at his cravat and gave him a pat on his chest. “There. You look wonderful.”

  “You look well-loved.”

  “Do not put me to the blush. I look like a proper wife. Now come.” They went down the stairs and came to the drawing room to find Marcus and Josie before them.

  “Where’s Michael?”

  “He arrived?” Josie asked as she glanced at her husband.

  “Sorry. I thought you knew.”

  “I need to make sure the table is set for an extra guest.” She swept from the room.

  “Brandy?” Marcus offered Phillip.

  “Yes.” The drink was handed off.

  Beth wandered around the room, surprised they managed to arrive i
n time. Phillip would glance at her and she couldn’t help but smile. She hugged herself but released it as the skin on her shoulder pulled tight. Her injury was healing which was the best she could hope for.

  Michael arrived at the door as Josie returned and he gave her his arm.

  “Ah, Rose Hill hospitality. Nowhere on earth quite like it,” Michael said. “I remember when Marcus longed for a wife to greet him when he returned home and a family to fill these halls with laughter. You are well on your way, my good man.”

  Josie blushed and came to stand with Beth. “He’s a scamp.”

  “Delightful, nonetheless. Does he ever take anything seriously?”

  “I believe so, but I rarely see that side of him. He is handy with his fists though and a good friend to have in a crisis. There is no laughter then. He helped Marcus rescue me when I’d been trapped in a carriage.”

  “How horrid.”

  “For them, perhaps. I was unconscious for some time. It was during my recovery that I fell in love with Lord Remington, before I’d ever seen his face.”

  “Excuse me?”

  “The accident had rendered me blind. Thankfully it was temporary. That man prayed over me for nights on end.”

  “He’s a good man.”

  “I’m a blessed woman,” Josie said.

  “As am I.”

  The bell rang and they headed into dinner.

  Michael entertained them with tales from balls and other events in London.

  When the meal ended, Josie and Beth rose and left the men to their port.

  Josie linked her arm through Beth’s as they strode to the drawing room. “You seem far more content since Phillip arrived.”

  “I am. I long for us to go to Stanton Hall, but I understand that here there are people who can help us.”

  “Marcus doesn’t want to travel far with the baby coming, even though I have some time yet before it arrives.”

  “It is equally sweet and annoying when they become so protective.”