the fireplace. “Would you like to take a seat?”
“I do not intend to stay long.”
The man’s gaze flickered to the white cotton sling cradling Katherine’s injured arm. His brows furrowed with apparent concern, and Katherine thought he might comment on it but then evidently decided against it.
“Though you certainly have no obligation to inform me of your progress, Lady Katherine, I find myself troubled and anxious for news.” The worry was evident in his grey eyes as was the sincerity in his tone. “I simply had to ascertain for myself if you’ve had any success in recovering His Grace.”
“I am so sorry for not sending word sooner, my lord,” she replied as a flare of guilt heated her skin. “I will forever be grateful for the help you provided in recommending Mr. Boothe. Gratefully, Frederick is safely home again.”
“That is a wonderful relief, my lady. I assume he is quite well, then. No ill effects?”
“He is very well. Thank you for asking.”
Shelbourne nodded sagely as his gaze settled rather intently upon her face. “London can be a dangerous place, but I hope this adverse experience does not keep you both from appreciating the many good things our city has to offer.”
The truth was, she had no intention of exploring the city any further until the threat against her brother was eliminated. But Lord Shelbourne would not be aware of the second abduction attempt nor that Frederick had apparently been targeted by someone specifically.
For a moment, she considered confessing the full scope of their situation. He’d offered to help in the past; perhaps he could offer additional resources.
But then she glanced at the list she’d just completed. Lord Shelbourne’s name was included. Though she didn’t think he had any cause to be involved, she did recall how he’d stressed the importance of discretion.
She might consider requesting his assistance at some point, but for now, she decided against dragging him any further into their problems. She smiled. “Of course not, my lord.”
The older man seemed to hesitate for a moment. Then he glanced to the side. “Did you discover what instigated his disappearance?”
Having already decided not to reveal more than necessary, Katherine replied carefully. “Not exactly, though we suspect ransom may have been a motive.”
Shelbourne nodded sympathetically. “An unfortunate probability, I’m afraid. May I meet the boy?”
“I’m afraid Frederick is occupied at the moment. He’s with his tutor and I’d rather not disturb him. I thought it best to get him focused on other things right away so he’d wouldn’t dwell on his recent experience.”
Though a lie, the excuse felt appropriate. Her brother had been over the details of his ordeal enough in the last days. She didn’t want to place him in a position where he might be questioned further.
“A wise decision, Lady Katherine. I imagine your guardian is grateful to have such a responsible surrogate taking on his duties while he remains abroad.”
Lord Shelbourne knew of Warfield’s absence from England? Was it such common knowledge, then?
“Thank you again for offering your assistance following our father’s unexpected passing.”
Shelbourne gave her a gentle smile. “Well, I see myself as being somewhat responsible for you and your brother. Your father was a valued friend.” His tone lowered. “I do hope you won’t mind if I check in on you now and then?”
She heard only kindness and concern in his tone, yet a part of her wanted to dissuade his interest, if only because she was so unaccustomed to such offers.
Life before London had not lent itself to the formation of many friendships. It was something Frederick would need as he grew into his role as Duke of Northmoor. She would be wise to cultivate these types of relationships for his future. “Of course not, my lord.”
“I believe I’ve taken up enough of your time. I shall see myself out.” Before turning away, he offered her another gentle smile. “Please, do not hesitate to contact me should you have need of me. For any reason at all.”
“I appreciate the offer. Thank you.”
With another nod, Lord Shelbourne turned and left the study.
Katherine wandered back to her desk as she listened to the click of Shelbourne’s shoes on the parquet as he crossed the hall. Though Shelbourne had been nothing but pleasant, she wondered at the feeling of apprehension his visit had inspired. Perhaps it was merely a remnant of the anxiety that had arisen with her earlier task. Or maybe his courtesy had simply reminded her of just how few people she and Frederick had