Sweet Rogue of Mine (The Survivors #9) - Shana Galen Page 0,65

at the sight of his swollen lip and black eye. There was a cut across his nose and bruising on his jaw. “What happened?”

“Occupational hazard,” he said.

She stared at him, and he waved a hand. “I’m fine. In fact, I’m flush in the pocket. Have you come about your wages?”

Pru had forgotten that she’d initially come to Wentmore in search of pay so she might be able to buy a few necessities. Now it seemed wrong to take money when she and Nash had been doing much more than lessons. “No. I can’t stay long. Mrs. Blimkin wanted to leave provisions with Mrs. Brown, and I thought I would review what we have learned with Mr. Pope. But if he has retired, I can return tomorrow.”

“Clopdon!” Mr. Payne roared, and Pru jumped. He was a big man and his voice probably echoed throughout the house. “My apologies. The bell pulls don’t work. Clopdon will know where Nash is lurking.”

A rumble of thunder sounded in the distance, and Pru thought about those storm clouds again.

“How are the lessons progressing?” Mr. Payne asked, gesturing to a chair across from him. The fire in the parlor was cozy, but she sat on the edge of her seat as she heard rain begin to patter on the roof and windows. She and Mrs. Blimkin would have a wet ride back.

“Mr. Pope is very quick and clever. I suspect he will be reading and writing using Monsieur Barbier’s method very soon.”

The door opened and Clopdon stood in the rectangle, a much put-upon expression on his face. “You called, sir?”

“Where’s Pope?”

“I was assisting him as he dressed for dinner.”

“We are dressing for dinner now?”

“Yes,” Clopdon said, drawing the word out.

“I suppose you had better have Mrs. Brown set another place. Miss Howard is here.”

“Oh, but I won’t be staying,” she said, rising.

“You can’t leave while it’s raining like this.” Mr. Payne looked at the window, and Pru realized it was pouring. “You and Mrs. Blimkin can go as soon as it lets up. We can send a lantern to light your way.”

Pru looked down at her drab dress. At least it wasn’t the pea-green gown. “I’m afraid I won’t be able to dress for dinner.”

“Then I will join you in solidarity,” Mr. Payne said. He looked at Clopdon. “The extra place setting, Clopdon?”

The man gave a heavy sigh and withdrew.

“I don’t think he likes having to relay instructions.”

“I know,” Mr. Payne said, smiling.

“He hired several footmen,” Pru said. “I don’t have much experience with servants, but I assume that is more in line with their duties.”

Mr. Payne shrugged. “What’s the fun in that?”

Pru gave him a narrow look. “I no longer wonder at why you have a black eye, Mr. Payne.”

He laughed just as Mrs. Blimkin came into the room. “Oh, Miss Howard. I should have listened to you. The rain is coming down in droves.” She bobbed a curtsy to Mr. Payne. Then, getting a good look at him, took a mincing step back. “Sir, I am so sorry to have to impose on you a bit longer.”

“It’s no imposition. I was just telling Clopdon to set another place for Miss Howard at dinner. Why don’t you join Mrs. Brown, and I’m sure the rain will slacken this evening and you can be on your way. I’ll send my groom with you to light the way.”

“That would be much appreciated, sir. Of course, Miss Howard can eat with Mrs. Brown and me.”

“No.”

Pru turned at the voice and saw Nash had come downstairs at some point. He’d been standing quietly, listening to the conversation. Mrs. Blimkin jumped and whirled around. “Oh, you scared me to death!” She moved aside, probably looking for the best place to hide should Nash produce his pistol.

Pru could understand why Mrs. Blimkin would suggest she eat downstairs. Pru was of a lower class than either of the men, and she was an employee—a servant of sorts. Her employment was more akin to that of a governess, though, which meant it would not be improper to allow her to eat at the table with Mr. Pope, although it was somewhat unusual.

“How nice of you to join us,” Mr. Payne drawled. “I already told Clopdon to set another place for Miss Howard.”

“Good. She won’t be going anywhere tonight, so we might as well prepare a chamber for her.” He glanced in the direction of the vicar’s housekeeper. “And Mrs. Blimkin.”

“Oh, I don’t think that will be necessary,” Pru said. Her heart had been