Lord Phillip's Folly Read online

  “Exactly.” Josie sat and Beth found a loveseat in the hopes that Phillip would join her when he arrived.

  “Are you worried about Wolton?” Josie asked.

  “For the moment, no. But he is a threat. In time, he will attack. The terror is in not knowing when. I have peace that it won’t be soon. Phillip and I disagree about how to bring resolution to this.”

  “I’m sure when Theodore arrives, the men will discuss a variety of options to help. In the meantime, I’m grateful for the company. Soon this house will be ringing with the laughter of children, but until then, it’s nice to have it filled with the love and conversation of friends.”

  “I’m grateful for your hospitality. Phillip told me he has spent many summers here during his college breaks.”

  “He is a close friend to Marcus, Michael, and Theodore. I pray that as we start a family, and now you as well with Phillip, that the men don’t lose the precious friendship that has sustained them for so long.”

  “I suspect it will be up to their devoted wives to ensure that never happens.”

  Josie grinned. “I wholeheartedly agree.”

  “Agree with what?” Marcus asked as he strode into the room with the men.

  Phillip came to sit by Beth. A shiver of delight ran through her as his thigh brushed against hers. She hoped she never became immune to his touch.

  “Agree that your friendships are worth preserving long into the future,” Beth stated.

  Phillip frowned. “Why wouldn’t they?”

  “Life is changing for us and for Marcus and Josie. That impacts everyone. It doesn’t have to preclude time spent together, though. Thankfully, Josie and I have become great friends. Now we only have to hope that Michael finds someone we like and then Theodore as well.”

  Marcus grinned. “Plotting to marry off all my friends? Don’t forget Jared. When he returns from war, it would be wonderful if he could find someone to love as well.”

  “We’ll pray for God to open those doors.”

  “Forget about planning my marriage. I’m not interested. I’m happy for you and will delight in being an uncle to all the children you’ll be having.” Michael protested.

  “The uncle who leads them into trouble?” Marcus asked.

  “But of course,” Michael smirked. “Listen, it’s been a long day and I’m bushed. I’ll see you in the morning. Hopefully, Theo will be arriving soon so we can plot what needs to happen to keep Beth and Phillip safe.”

  “Good night, Michael,” Beth said as the others echoed her comment.

  The knight strode from the room. Beth hooked her arm to Phillip’s. “I’m fatigued as well. Shall we call it a night?”

  Marcus grinned to Josie. “Rose Hill has that impact on people.” He rose and held out a hand helping his wife to her feet.

  The two couples took the stairs and when Beth and Phillip reached their room she pulled him in and locked the door behind her. She strode to him and began to untie his cravat as he unbuttoned his waistcoat.

  “Not as tired as you indicated?”

  “Oh, I’m tired, m’lord. Tired of talking.” She gave him a sly grin and he bent to kiss her.

  Beth slept well that night, never realizing the fireplace hadn’t been lit.

  ~*~

  Lord Follett sat at his desk and sorted through the pile of letters from his creditors. They had been hounding him. He’d needed to leave London in hopes they wouldn’t follow him north. There had been no word from Lord Wolton for several weeks and that alone made him nervous. The man terrified him and always had. Folly took a sip of whiskey. His hair was unkempt, cravat untied and his waistcoat stained with gravy. A disreputable mess. He hadn’t left home in over a week lest a creditor stalked him outside the gates.

  He was aware there were people watching. Who sent them he didn’t know and that terrified him more. He’d gotten word of the fire at Lord Westcombe’s home and was glad Lizzy hadn’t been in residence at the time.

  He wondered where his daughter had gone. As angry as he was at her double-crossing him, part of him was hopeful she’d find happiness with her new husband. His little girl had grown up timid and reserved. He hardly knew the woman she was within the beautiful shell she carried over her soul. She looked so much like her mother it hurt.

  Ever since watching his wife die in a horrific way, he’d regretted his association with Wolton. He’d wondered if the man had ever touched Lizzy. Why else would she have been so repulsed and bolt like that? The thought of his precious daughter being harmed as a young girl, through the activities of the society, made him ill. He drank more whiskey.

  It seemed there was never enough of the alcohol to keep him as numb as he longed to be. After years of imbibing, and times where he couldn’t remember, it took more and more drink to get him through each miserable day. He’d only wanted Lizzy to marry Wolton so his debts would be taken care of and he could drink himself to oblivion. For years he’d been impotent to save himself much less his daughter. Would anyone even miss him if he died now?

  The estate was mortgaged to the hilt with no heirs. The baronetcy would die with him. It was a minor title anyway. No great loss to the crown and he’d done nothing of value in his life. The only bright light had been having a daughter, but she was now haunted by an evil predator. He emptied the bottle and reached for another.

  Was there anything he could do at this late date to redeem himself? Could he perhaps change the course of evil that was set in motion? Even if he lost his life trying, it wouldn’t matter. He was a dead man anyway. If, for once in his life, he could do something right with regards to his daughter, would he be redeemed in her eyes at least?

  He set to tidying up his desk and wrote a letter. When he was finished, he sanded the letter, affixed the seal and locked it in the top drawer of his desk. On unsteady feet, he rose to seek his bed. Events would move along quickly enough. He needed to sleep and sober up if he was to do at least one positive thing in his life.

  14

  September

  Beth hugged Josie tight. “Thank you for all you’ve done for us.”

  “I will continue to hold you both in prayer. We’ll join you in time for the ball. I wouldn’t want to miss the celebration of your marriage.”

  “You’ll be coming close to your confinement.”

  “After the ball, I’m sure Marcus will spirit me away to Rose Hill and hover until our child is born.”

  The women grinned at each other and with one more hug, Beth moved toward the coach.

  The men shook hands and Phillip assisted her into the carriage. Settling next to her she held his hand as the carriage lurched forward. Outriders surrounded them. Marcus had insisted on those. Duke rode proudly on top, a celebrated creature by all the stable hands. He’d truly found a home for himself at Rose Hill.

  The journey was slow. Phillip demanded the trip take two days due to Beth’s “condition.” While she believed it unnecessary she gave in with grace. Her husband loved her and she relished every minute of it.

  They stopped that night at the Red Boar Inn and enjoyed a cozy dinner in a private parlour before sharing their room. Such a different experience from her wedding night when she’d slept alone, hurt, and frustrated. How far they had come in such a few short months.

  They arrived in London the next day and made their way to their house. The master suite had been repaired and decorated.

  Beth looked forward to seeing it and taking up residence in their own space outside of Stanton Hall.

  Phillip’s friends hired ex-soldiers to stand guard as they took on duties in and around the house. They were armed, determined to protect her, and keep an eye out for danger.

  Beth sensed that things with her father and Wolton were drawing near which led to increased anxiety. Every night as she snuggled in her husband’s arms, she was able to set aside those fears and leave them in the hands of their capable God.

  ~*~

  “Good morning, love.” Phillip had already dressed but ca
me to rouse her from sleep.

  “Why are you waking me up?”

  “I have a surprise for you.”

  “Really?”

  “Madame Celeste will be arriving shortly to make you a gown for the ball.”

  She sighed.

  “What’s wrong?” He sat next to her.

  “The scar is high enough to make designing a gown difficult if I want to hide it and I do.”

  “I’m sure she’ll work wonders.”

  “And if you haven’t noticed, your son or daughter is taking up more space.”

  His hand caressed her stomach, hidden by her night rail. “I happen to love every part of you. By the way, I requested she design your gown in an emerald green to match your lovely eyes.”

  “Ah, the joys of being married. No more sallow pastels for me.”

  “Exactly. I’m headed out but I trust you’ll find Madame Celeste more than competent to have a gown ready for you in time for the ball. Order anything else you would like as well.”

  Her eyebrows rose. “Really?”

  “Yes, my dear. As my wife, you need to look well cared for and please your husband by dressing in the most recent fashions.”

  “I could dress in nothing and make you happy.”

  His gaze grew warm. “Very true, but that’s not an outfit I want to share with anyone else.” He kissed her and pulled away leaving her longing for more. “Later.”

  “Promise?”

  “Have I failed you yet?”

  She shook her head. She delighted in watching him move. God had blessed her with a fine figure of a man and he knew how to dress well. Now it was her turn to return the favor. Oh, this could be fun!

  ~*~

  Madame Celeste clucked as she moved around Beth. “Your husband did not lie about your beauty. We will design a gown as unique as the woman wearing it. Red hair is considered unfashionable but I suspect after the ball women will be trying to find a way to look as stunning as you.”

  They chose to design a bold emerald gown with a high back and modest front, trimmed with gold accents and a filmy golden overskirt. Beth would feel like a princess wearing it, but would her story have a fairy tale ending? After more gowns were ordered the seamstress left and Beth fell into bed to rest. Even shopping from home could be exhausting.

  ~*~

  The next day Phillip enjoyed breakfast with his wife. He’d gotten into the habit of discussing news from the paper with her and found she had some insightful thoughts on the struggles facing the country. Too bad women weren’t allowed in Parliament.

  A footman stepped into the room clearing his throat.

  “Yes, Jem?”

  “You have a visitor.”

  “Who is it?” Beth asked.

  “Lord Follett.”

  Phillip’s fork fell, clattering against the plate. He looked to his wife. “You don’t have to see him if you don’t want to.”

  “If I don’t, I’ll always wonder…”

  “I insist on staying with you.”

  Beth reached to give his hand a squeeze. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

  Phillip rose and helped his wife to her feet. Together they went in to see Lord Follett, the man his wife hadn’t seen since she’d run away into Phillip’s arms.

  ~*~

  Beth clung tightly to Phillip. Why should she fear her father? She was married to Phillip. In every way, she was now his.

  Phillip stopped just inside the doorway giving her a chance to take a breath. Phillip whispered to the footman to keep the door open.

  Lord Follett ceased pacing and stared at his daughter as if seeing her for the first time. Beth had to admit that she’d filled out since her marriage. Being well-loved, well-fed, and with child had given her curves. Her gaunt features were a faint memory.

  “Lord Follett. Welcome to our home,” Phillip stated coolly as he assessed the man.

  “Thank you for receiving me. I would not have blamed you if you had denied me entrance.”

  “I’m surprised you came at all if you were so unsure of your reception.” The ice remained in Phillip’s tone. He led Beth to the settee and motioned for Lord Follett to take a seat across from them.

  “How are you, Father?” Beth asked, still clinging to her husband’s arm.

  “Not well, but that is not why I’ve come.”

  “State your business,” Phillip said.

  Lord Follett considered his son-in-law for a moment, and sighed. “I have come to apologize to my daughter. I was initially furious when she flouted my plans and married you, Lord Westcombe. I didn’t even realize she was acquainted with you. However,” he now turned to Beth. “I’ve come to realize how blind I have been to who you really are, Lizzy, and what you needed. I overlooked many important things as you grew. I suspect I was blind to much happening under my very nose.”

  Beth silently assessed him. She nodded for him to continue.

  “Yes. Well, I’m sorry, Lizzy, that I was not a better father to you. I cannot change the past. There is no way to redeem my mistakes. I hope that someday you’ll find it in your heart to forgive an ignorant old man.”

  “I have forgiven you, Father.”

  His eyes grew wide. “You have?”

  “I found forgiveness at the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ. If He has forgiven my sins, how can I withhold forgiveness for yours?”

  “Jesus?” The man shivered and glanced over his shoulder.

  “Yes.”

  He rose to pace across the room. On his third trip, he stopped. “You have surprised me, Lizzy, in so many ways. I am seeing you through new eyes. You are a beautiful woman, much like your mother was. I wish you a long, happy, and fruitful marriage to Lord Westcombe.”

  “Thank you.”

  “What about Lord Wolton? Why did you want an alliance between your house and his? How could you sacrifice your only daughter to him?” Phillip asked.

  Lord Follett resumed pacing. “Sacrifice is a strong word.” His hand now tapped his leg as he moved. “I thought he would be good for Lizzy, and financially, he agreed to assist me in stabilizing my fortunes.”

  “You intended to sell your daughter, without consulting her, to rectify your own financial mismanagement of your estate? Abominable.”

  Beth squeezed Phillip’s hand in an attempt to get him to relax. He was tightly wound and ready to spring. His distaste for her father was clear.

  “You are correct. There is much for me to atone for. I grew desperate and was not thinking clearly. I was in error and I have come to apologize. You, Lord Westcombe, have won the prize of my daughter along with her inheritance. I understand you didn’t need the money so I hope that means you married her for love.”

  Phillip remained silent.

  Lord Follett continued. “She deserves to be cherished and I hope you will do it well, to compensate for my many mistakes. It is a burden neither of you should have had to bear, but I cannot undo the past.”

  “Where does that leave us now, Father?” Beth asked.

  “I do not deserve to be a part of your life and I will not ask it of you. Lord Westcombe, you are proper and within your rights to deny me any future contact with Lizzy. Your anger is reasonable. I failed. Lizzy, you have your new life. I wish you joy. I mean that with all my heart. I have no expectations of either of you beyond the hope of forgiveness, which you have so graciously given.”

  “She has forgiven you more than you deserve,” Phillip said as he rose to his feet. “I, however, have a harder time finding it in my heart to forgive a man who would so callously allow others to abuse and torture his daughter and then seek to sell her as a piece of property for your own gain. We are not in the dark ages, my lord. My wife is a precious jewel, a human being. Worthy of love, being cared for, and protected. You have failed her on all counts. You are a miserable excuse of a parent.” Phillip’s hands were clenched.

  Lord Follett stopped by the fireplace and considered his host. The baron’s eyes filled with tears. “You are
correct. Your sentiments do you justice and in what is left of my shriveled-up heart, I am grateful my girl has a man such as you to stand by her side and defend her honor, even from myself. Do you need more? Would a duel assuage our need for revenge? I blindly allowed harm to come to her under my own roof. I would meet you if it made a difference, but I will say this—I will not defend myself. There is no defense to be had for my sins.

  “If you must kill me for the sake of justice, so be it. If you choose to let me live the rest of my days with the newly discovered horror of what I have done to Lizzy, you will also be avenged. Death would be preferable.”

  Elizabeth rose to her feet and stood in front of her husband. “Phillip will not be battling you on a field of honor. My dignity is not found in your death for past sins. It is only found in Christ. Father, do not spend the rest of your earthly days in recriminations over the past. Jesus longs to take that from you, cleanse you of all of your sins, and instead give you eternal life with Him as well as joy in your remaining here on earth.”

  Lord Follett dropped his head. “I’m sorry, Lizzy. I made my choice long ago, which master I would serve. Severing that alliance to follow Christ would mean my certain death.”

  Lizzy took a step forward. “Yet refusing Christ will mean an eternity with that master you serve. Why would you choose to give up now when you could be free?”

  “Freedom means death, Lizzy.”

  “We all die at some time.”

  The baron scanned the room, avoiding looking at her. “I have overstayed my welcome. Thank you for listening. I will not seek you out again.” He stepped forward, lifted Beth’s hand to his lips and placed a kiss on the back of it. He glanced at Phillip. “I could think of no better man to entrust her to.” With a short bow, he stalked out of the room and left the house.

  Beth turned and walked into her husband’s arms, resting her head on his chest. The beat of his strong heart assured her of his protection and strength. She wept.

  Phillip sat, pulling her onto his lap, cradling her as pent up emotions leaked out. He gave her his handkerchief.

  When she calmed down enough she spoke through the sobs that still racked her body. “He is choosing an eternity in hell. Phillip, he is making that choice and it breaks my heart.”