Mistletoe and Mayhem - Cheryl Bolen Page 0,125

She then threatened us, our family, and the Redferns if I persisted in causing trouble for her.”

Joseph whistled.

“And this is my concern,” Rory added. “We can leave at once for Greystone and be safe there while we press charges and she is finally held accountable for what she has done. The Redferns have nowhere to run.”

“Invite them to Greystone,” Joseph said.

“I had hoped you would say that.” Rory felt relief. “I just may need your help in getting them there.”

Chapter Twelve

Ivy sat in the chair in her brother’s room the following day. It was cold out, and a fire crackled in the grate. She felt at peace sitting here, knowing that the two people she loved were safe and with her. Perhaps peace wasn’t the right word, as there was that kiss and the danger that hung over them, but she felt better than she had in many days. Lord, was it only yesterday they’d rescued Jackson and she’d been kissed?

“We will need to take a place in Bath,” Aunt Bea said. Seated beside Jackson, she was feeding him broth.

He’d been bathed again when he woke this morning, and now lay in his bed looking rested. He was still pale, and they’d found sores on his ankles and other places, but for all that, he appeared in better spirits.

“I’m sorry that my actions have hurt you both,” Jackson said.

“We will discuss that when you are stronger,” Ivy said. “For now, regain your strength.”

“Lord Ellsworth and Mr. Haddon have called, Miss Redfern,” Parslip said from the doorway.

“How wonderful.” Aunt Bea looked excited. “Tell them we shall be down shortly.”

“We took the liberty of coming to you,” Rory said, entering the bedroom followed by his brother. His eyes settled on her briefly before turning to Jackson and Aunt Bea.

“Oh now, this is nice,” her aunt said. “So many handsome men all in one room.”

Mortified at her aunt’s words, Ivy stood rooted to the spot. Seeing Rory again so soon after that kiss was unsettling. She had touched her lips at least fifty times since that moment. How was it possible they seemed more sensitive? Her first kiss, and Ivy knew she’d never forget it.

“We should go downstairs.” She found her voice. “I’m sure the earl has no wish to stand about in here.”

“Here is fine, I assure you, Miss Redfern. With such beauty on display, any room would do.” The earl went to her aunt and bowed over her hand. His smile had Aunt Bea in a flutter. “You’ll excuse us for calling at such an hour without sending word first.”

“Of course.” Aunt Bea blushed.

“Is everything all right?” Rory moved to Ivy’s side.

“Yes. Jackson is much improved, thank you. The doctor you sent said he will regain full health soon.”

“Excellent.”

“Why have you brought your brother here? Has something else happened, Mr. Haddon?”

“Rory.”

“I think it best if we are formal once again,” Ivy said softly so no one else could overhear.

“I disagree, and I will call you Ivy, so you may as well call me Rory.” His smile did wonderful things to his face. She squashed down the flutter in her belly as he touched her hand briefly before going to see Jackson.

“I can never thank you enough for what you did, Rory,” her brother said.

Ivy watched as the two old friends clasped hands.

“No thanks necessary. I shall call upon you when I need something, and we shall be even.”

Jackson snorted. “It will take more than one thing.”

“Do you feel up to telling us what happened?” Rory asked.

Her brother looked at Aunt Bea and then her.

“We are involved in this, Jackson, and will hear what is said,” Aunt Bea said.

“Very well.” Jackson didn’t look happy but nodded. “Madam Layla is extremely beautiful, and she paid me particular attention. I fear I became enamored with her. She would ply me with drinks, and sometimes I would end up in a bed without even realizing how I’d got there.”

“Do you think she’d put something in your drink?” Rory asked.

“Yes, I’m certain that was what she was doing. And then I overheard her discussing me with someone. She said we did not have a great deal of money, but as we were a family of only three, there would be no complications in taking it.”

“Good Lord.” Aunt Bea looked upset.

“Continue with your story, Jackson.”

“I confronted her, demanded to know what she was about, clearly not a good move on my part, and she had some of her men tie me to that bed.”

“What an evil woman,”