what it would take to change that.
BEATRICE HAD JUST CLOSED the door of Mary’s room when she came upon Daniel in the corridor.
“You’re already moving about?” she asked, breathless at the unexpected sight of him. She’d hoped to have the chance to visit him this morning, but she thought to do so in his bedchamber.
Yet a closer look revealed fine lines bracketing his mouth, suggesting he was in pain. She was certain it had little to do with the bruise along his jaw.
“I am. How is Miss Adams this morning?”
“Still tired but happy to be here. She’s resting again now.”
“No doubt that’s the best thing for her.”
“Shouldn’t you be doing the same?”
“Now you sound like Pierre.” The smile Daniel offered didn’t hide the truth from Beatrice. He should definitely still be abed.
“Will you join me in the drawing room?” she asked.
“Actually, I’m on my way out.”
“Oh.” Disappointment speared through her. She thought he’d remain at Aberland House for at least one more night. She liked knowing he was nearby and that she could speak with him whenever she wished.
“Before I go, I wanted to ask when your next social engagement is so I won’t miss it.”
Her heart shifted in her chest. How could she guard against her growing feelings for this man when he continually did things that made her care even more? “How kind of you. I don’t know for certain.”
Would there be another? Caroline hadn’t mentioned anything about it. Perhaps Beatrice should take that as a hint. She should make a decision and move on with her life so she could stop relying on Aberland and Caroline’s good graces as well as leaning on Daniel for support.
“What is it?” Daniel asked, taking a step closer. “I can practically see dark thoughts circling in your mind.”
“It seems like I should find somewhere else to stay.”
“Why?”
“I’ve been here a fortnight now. That’s far too long.” Now she’d brought Mary here, an additional burden. Yet the thought of leaving had panic filling her, causing her breath to quicken. Where would she go? She still had no money nor any prospect of earning any. That made standing on her own nearly impossible, but she detested feeling like a burden.
“Beatrice, there’s no rush. I know for a fact Caroline would be disappointed to hear you’re even thinking about it.”
Beatrice nodded, but the thought didn’t completely allay her worry. Now there was not only herself but Mary—two unplanned guests who were disrupting Lord and Lady Aberland’s lives. The time had come to find a path forward.
“Tell me what you’re thinking.” Daniel reached for her upper arm with one hand, warming her even as his eyes held steady on her.
“I’m thinking I must make plans for my life sooner rather than later.”
“I disagree. You’re more than welcome to stay here. If you’d like, I can have a word with my brother to make certain—”
“There’s no need for that. The earl has been more than kind. But he and Caroline need to focus on the baby and all the changes he or she will bring.” As frightening as it was, it felt like the right thing to do. “As soon as I see Mary up and about and on her way, I’ll decide what to do. You’ve all been so generous, but I refuse to take advantage of that.”
“You’re not,” Daniel protested as he released her. “Why don’t we discuss this with Richard and Caroline?”
“Of course. We’ll do that soon.” But first, she wanted to form a plan.
The time had come to stand on her own, just as she’d intended when she’d left her village. Each day saw her more dependent on Daniel, Caroline, and the earl. That would make leaving harder, something she couldn’t risk, for it would lead to heartbreak. She need only look into Daniel’s golden eyes to know that.
Chapter Eleven
Daniel paced his study the following day, only to turn too quickly which caused a painful hitch in his side. He grimaced at the reminder of his wound and slowed his steps.
“Perhaps you should sit.” Richard’s dry tone held a hint of amusement that Daniel didn’t appreciate.
“I think better when I’m moving.” Daniel paused to scowl at his brother. Never mind that Daniel had been the one to request this meeting. “You do the same when you’re upset.”
“True.” Richard leaned back in the chair and folded his hands over his flat stomach. “But I must say I enjoy watching you do it instead.”
Daniel returned to his chair, only to realize that was exactly