Mistaken for a Rake - Rose Pearson Page 0,59
Kensington might deny it all, and her husband could well believe her.”
Lord Richmond shook his head. “I am sure he will not, not once he hears the truth,” he said firmly, his confidence filling Rebecca with hope. “It is time that all became clear, not only to us but to the beau monde. They should see Lady Kensington for who she truly is—a lady willing to manipulate and threaten those in her acquaintance simply so she might be able to gain for herself whatever she wishes. Even if it means the death of her husband.”
A coldness ran down Rebecca’s frame, but she pushed it away, determined to fill herself with nothing but courage and strength. “Then let us pray all goes well,” she said quietly as Lord Richmond held her gaze, a hope burning in his eyes that Rebecca felt ignite in her soul. “So that true freedom might once more be found by you, Lord Richmond. For the good of us all.”
Chapter Thirteen
“I have set both items aside in the room Lord Gillingham has granted us,” Jeffery murmured as both he and Lord Swinton made their way slowly into the ballroom, the sound of music, conversation, and laughter rushing towards them like an overpowering wave. “He was most understanding.”
Lord Swinton’s brows rose. “You told him of your intention?”
Jeffery chuckled. “I was not at all specific, no,” he said with a grin. “But I stated very clearly that it was to ensure that the life of one of his guests was not in any danger. That, certainly, piqued his curiosity, but he is too much of a gentleman to enquire further. Thus, we have been given a quiet parlor for our endeavors. There is a footman standing by the door so that you will know where to go.”
Lord Swinton took in a long breath, no smile on his face this evening. “And you are quite certain that Lady Kensington will join you there?”
“More than certain,” Jeffery replied with a rueful smile. “I will tell her that I intend to make for my estate come the morning and that I must discuss matters with her before I depart to make certain that she will do nothing more.” He watched as the awareness of what such a thing would mean to Lady Kensington came into Lord Swinton’s expression. “If I depart as planned, then she will not be able to do as she intends. Thus, she will, of course, say something to ensure I remain in London for a few days longer.”
“Very good,” Lord Swinton chuckled as Jeffery smiled wryly. “Then I hope this evening brings Lady Kensington’s comeuppance. You deserve to be free of her, Richmond, and to be happy with another.”
Jeffery lifted one eyebrow. “You mean Lady Rebecca.”
“Of course, I mean Lady Rebecca!” Lord Swinton laughed as Jeffery allowed himself a broad smile of contentment. “She is clearly very dear to you, else you would not have had such a strong reaction to what you believed was the end of your acquaintance.”
“I believe I have a deep affection for her,” Jeffery replied honestly. “I have not yet fully examined my heart given all that has been happening, but, when it comes time to do so, I would not be surprised to discover that I love her.”
Lord Swinton let out a sigh of satisfaction. “Then I shall be very glad to attend your wedding,” he replied, making Jeffery laugh. “And I shall count myself responsible for your happiness.”
“Let us hope it is as you say,” Jeffery replied, his stomach twisting as he caught sight of his quarry. “The evening, it seems, has begun.”
“Lady Kensington.”
Jeffery bowed and straightened, his whole body stiff with tension as she looked back at him, her eyes gleaming with evident delight at his discomfort. Quickly greeting the rest of the group that stood together, Jeffery forced himself to take in deep, slow breaths. He knew what he had to say for Lady Kensington to take note of his intentions, but to do so immediately would not be wise. Allowing the conversation to flow around him and fully aware that he was receiving some dark looks from some of those in the small group, Jeffery cleared his throat and swung his arms behind his back, his hands clasping together.
“It is interesting that you speak of missing the country, Lord Birchall,” he said, looking at the gentleman rather than at Lady Kensington. “I, myself, intend to return to my country estate rather than remain in London.”
Another gentleman chortled. “Then