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Chapter 1   Chapter 2   Chapter 3

Chapter 1

Justin Drake, Seventh Earl of Ashton, looked down at the note he held in his hand. He already knew everything it said. Roger was missing. That was the gist of it. And until he knew where his best operative, and friend, was he wouldn't be able to rest. How could he? He needed -- no, England needed -- the information Roger had gathered if they were going to put a stop to secrets leaking across the Channel.

Walking over to the lamp, he raised the glass and moved the paper toward the flame, letting one corner of the note catch fire, before replacing the glass. He dropped the burning note in the washbasin in the corner of his room and watched it turn to ashes. And that's exactly what would happen to all his plans, he thought, if he didn't find Roger quickly. It didn't help matters that since he was the one who sent Roger, he felt responsible. He ran his hand through his hair and glanced at the ormolu clock on the mantle. Regardless of what he wanted to do, right now, he had to get himself ready and make off to Lady Weston's assembly before he became unfashionably late. Now that would raise questions. No matter what anyone else had to say about the Earl of Ashton, they never faulted his manners.

By the time Monty let himself into the room to help him into his evening coat Justin was ready. Still, Monty ran his hand across the shoulders of the earl's coat, brushing at any stray motes of dust that may have dared to settle there.

"I told Jem you wouldn't let the horses wait long."

Justin looked at him sharply. In truth he totally forgot the horses had been waiting, and as Monty pointed out, that wasn't like him at all.

"Never." He patted Monty on the shoulder on his way out. Montague Landsford had been with Justin forever and was much more than a manservant. There were some who turned up their noses at the familiarity between the earl and the hired help. No one close to him ever dared express such an opinion for they knew if it hadn't been for Monty, the earl may never have made it home from the French prison during the war.

***

The ride to Weston's gave him time to consider his options. His first inclination -- to run over to France himself -- would not do except as a last resort. He had no delusions. If he were caught, it would be the same as signing Roger's death warrant.

Lost in thought, it wasn't until the carriage door opened that he realized he had reached his destination.

Stepping inside Lord Weston's well-appointed Town house, Ashton handed his cloak to the footman before being announced.

"My dear Ashton, I am so delighted you could make it."

He reached for Lady Weston's outstretched hands and brought them to his lips. "Did you doubt it? I have never missed one of your soirees yet. It would be terribly shabby if I were to start now." Dropping her hands, he offered her his arm as he made his way into the room. Then, patting her fingers resting on his arm, he leaned closer to her. "Your husband's watching, m'dear. Wouldn't do to give him anything to worry about."

"As if Tony would worry."

Justin stopped at her comment and looked down at her in surprise. In spite of all the obstacles the couple had endured when courting, Ashton knew theirs was a love match.

"I meant, he wouldn't worry if it were you, Ashton. He does trust you."

When Justin looked up, it was to see Tony watching them, but Justin knew it wasn't to see if he would run off with his wife. Tony was eagerly waiting for him to share any news he received and as soon as Justin was free he would deliver it.

Justin greeted all the women and their daughters Miriam introduced him to dutifully, and vowed Tony would have to wait even longer for any news. Anticipating his revenge for making him attend this assembly, he let Tony cool his heels. When he flashed an extra bright smile at the next female he was introduced to, he overheard her mother declare to anyone in hearing distance that Lord Ashton had paid noted attention to her daughter.

After being introduced to every female in their vicinity, Miriam finally took pity on Justin, and shooed him off. He spied Tony slowly but assuredly, making his way to the terrace doors.

"Not running away so soon, are you?"

Tony whirled to face his friend and grinned.

"'Bout time you showed up." He reached for two glasses from the tray offered by one of the servers and handed one to Justin.

"Thank God I'm married. It cuts down on all the mammas with their daughters in tow."

"True. Now you just have the mammas." Justin raised his glass and toasted his friend before taking a sip.

Tony gave a bark of laughter and followed suit. "As if I would ever have as many women following me. Thank goodness I'm such a faithful husband."

Justin arched one eyebrow at his friend's comment, though he knew it was true. "The fact that Miriam would have your heart on a platter has nothing to do with it, I suppose." Finishing his drink, he handed the glass to one of the servants.

Although they were out of hearing range of most of the guests, Justin continued out the terrace doors, drawing Tony with him.

"You heard from your man, I take it." Tony leaned against the railing baluster, facing toward the house.

"Not exactly." Justin scanned the bushes, making sure no one else was about. Though he trusted Tony to lead him to a private place where they wouldn't be overheard, old habits died hard.

"It seems he is missing." Justin paced in front of Tony, continuing to talk in a low tone.

"Missing? As in no one knows where he is?"

"How many types of missing are there, Tony?"

Tony shrugged. "I didn't know if this was official or if you talked to his family yet."

"His family? I didn't know he had one." Justin shrugged away tiny bits of memory of any family his friend might have mentioned. He had the vaguest recollection of parents, now deceased.

"A sister at least. Believe she's here tonight. Have to ask Miriam."

A sister. He knew he should have recalled that bit of information. He tucked the tidbit into his memory and continued with what he really wanted to share. "I received a note from Caruthers today, which is one of the reasons I am here."

"Won't do to mention that to Miriam," Tony teased. "She's convinced she pulled a coup having you here."

Justin gave him a weak smile.

"There's more?"

Justin clasped his hands behind his back, then released them, as if uncharacteristically unsure of what he was going to say. "Actually, I met with Caruthers last week. I told him I planned to meet with you tonight to let you know that this is my last mission. At least, it was before this came up. As soon as we find Roger, I'm out."

Tony straightened, staring at his friend.

"I can't imagine working without you, Ash. Give it some thought."

Justin twisted his lips in a travesty of a smile. "Believe me, I have thought it through until I am about to go mad. Truth is, I'm not getting any younger. It's past time for me to set up my nursery."

Knowing it was true, Tony didn't contest it. Ashton was the last in direct line of Drakes. If he had no heir, the title would go to some long-forgotten branch of the family. They both also knew it was useless to consider working for Caruthers after Justin was married. Caruthers had made it very clear that married men did not work in the field. Now that Tony was married he he'd been more or less delegated to odd jobs that came his way, but nothing that entailed him leaving England, or risking his life.

"Miriam will be ecstatic to know you really might be interested in some of the chits she throws your way."

"Now that deserves another drink," Justin said, heading for the doors. "I don't believe I'm that desperate yet. Besides, there's always Arabella." There was no need for him to mention he had stopped seeing Arabella some time ago, much to that lady's distress.

When Tony caught up to him, Justin was standing near the musicians. He knew Tony stood close by, but his restless nature made him search the crowd anyway, not really looking for anyone in particular.

Tony leaned towards Justin and spoke in a low tone of voice. "If you want to bolt, I'll tell Miriam something came up."

Justin started to agree, when he caught sight of a young woman he had not seen earlier. There was something vaguely familiar about her, but he couldn't place her. When she started to play with her fan, he followed her every movement, concentrating on what message she could possibly be imparting. Fine, if she wanted to speak to him, he would accommodate her, and perhaps find out where he knew her from at the same time.

"Ashton," Sir Rodney Blaine, a neighboring squire, interrupted the earl's thoughts. "Tell Markhem here no one can beat your greys."

Justin turned at the sound of his name, not at all pleased to be accosted by these two men when he had something totally different in mind. Rodney was a toad eating fool whose only desire that Justin could ever discern was to make a place for himself in society; a task he failed miserably. And now that he had been interrupted, Justin had no desire to make anything easy for Rodney. Never mind that Ashton's family and friends agreed he made nothing easy for anyone.

"Now why should I do that?"

"'Cause it's the truth!"

"If you insist." He again focused his attention on where he had seen the woman, only to find her gone. Then again, perhaps she had never been there.

"C'mon, Ashton, " Sir Rodney continued. The man had the most grating voice, among his other faults. "Markhem here is looking for sport. The least you could do is accommodate him."

Stiffly, Justin turned to face the two men. He didn't give Markhem the cut direct, but the thought had flitted through his mind. Then he looked back to Rodney. "There is no reason in the world for me to accommodate anyone."

"Tell you what, Ashton. Let me drive your greys and you won't have to be bothered at all." Rodney wore a huge smile as he faced Justin, as if he had come up with the ideal solution.

"No."

"Why ever not? I've driven other teams." The man sounded genuinely shocked.

That was true, but that didn't mean he had to. Justin never understood why anyone would entrust someone like Rodney with good horseflesh. Standing still, Justin stared at Rodney until the other man's smile faded and he started to shift his weight from foot to foot.

"My young nieces have visions of harnessing them to their carts," Justin finally said.

Satisfied the men got the message when they drifted away, Justin again looked among the dancers for the woman he'd seen

"What a corker!" Tony said with a chuckle after the other men left. "You haven't got any nieces."

"I know that."

***

Lucia slowly waved the fan past her face with her left hand, enjoying the slight breeze it delivered, and immediately felt her aunt jab her arm. She managed to keep from wincing, but Aunt Amelia's pokes were going to turn her black and blue. Giving a slight nod that she understood the older woman's admonishment, Lucia brought the fan slowly across her face once more, then folded it with a sigh. She let her finger rest on the fan tips before letting it fall to her side. The fan gave a slight bounce against her leg as it dangled from her wrist by a thin ribbon.

After catching the fan so that it would lie still, she straightened, and caught the bold gaze of the dark haired gentleman across the room.

She felt his gaze travel down the length of her person and slowly make its way back up. What audacity! When his gaze met hers, he nodded once, then turned his back to her, once again facing his companion.

Lucia raised her fan and looked at it in horror. She couldn't have been more appalled if it had been a beloved pet that turned and bit her. Now what had she done? Quickly, she tried to think of what other women had said; something about by holding, folding or moving a fan a certain way a woman could flirt with any male in the room. Perhaps if she had learned these things when she was younger it would have helped her now instead of her having to rely on second-hand messages. Looking in the direction of the man across the room, she watched him hand his glass to one of the servants, and decided it was definitely time for her to check and see if her gown needed repairing.

She hated coming to Town, more specifically, she detested the social rounds she was required to make when she came to Town. If it had been for any reason other than finding Roger she wouldn't be here. Heaven knew she barely had enough social graces to cover the very most basic of proceedings. Perhaps if someone had taught her when she was younger...She bit her lip forcing her concentration anywhere but where those thoughts would lead.

Making it to her destination, she pushed open the door to the room set-aside for the ladies, and stopped abruptly. She had hoped to find the room empty, yet here was her hostess pinning the flounce of another woman's dress. Lucia searched her mind until she came up with the young woman's name, all the while, making her way to one of the more secluded corners of the room. She had been introduced to Lady Charlotte much earlier in the evening. At first, she had been taken in by the willowy young woman's blonde looks. Her every action was so graceful, Lucia had felt positively gauche next to her.

Lady Weston looked up when Lucia entered and gave her a smile, taking care to explain how Lady Charlotte's last escort had stepped on the flounce of her dress enough times that the stitching connecting the two was in serious danger of separating. "I fear Lord Carlow is not a very graceful dancer."

Lucia watched the other woman's face closely.

"No. He is not," Charlotte agreed. "Mamma said Lord Ashton is an excellent dancer."

"Yes, he is," her hostess readily agreed. "But, he does very little of it."

"He is rather old, though not as old as Lord Carlow."

Lady Weston's shoulders shook as she coughed. Quickly, she tucked the excess thread under the flounce and patted it in place. "That should hold."

Lucia desperately wanted to ask more about Lord Ashton, but preferred to speak to Lady Weston when she was alone. Roger had told her if she ever needed anything and she could not reach him, Lord Ashton was the man to see. From what her aunt had said, the Westons and Ashton were close indeed. Of course, if her aunt had had any inkling of what Lucia was about, she would not have been so thrilled to attend this soiree. In her mind, Lucia had always pictured Ashton as being near her brother's age, but Lady Charlotte seemed to think he was much older, and her hostess hadn't corrected her.

She didn't necessarily want to meet him this evening, so she wouldn't mind if he never showed. Still, she would have liked to see how he behaved toward other people before she set up an appointment with him. If he showed any consideration for anyone, she would know she could meet with him. If he turned out to be an obnoxious cad, like the neighboring squire, she knew she would not approach him no matter what Roger said. She would simply wait for her brother's return.

"Mamma said Lord Ashton and I would be a perfect match," Lady Charlotte said.

"Ashton's rather closed mouthed about things, so don't get your hopes up," Lady Weston said dryly.

"Mamma said my cheerfulness would balance him out."

More likely drive any sane man to distraction, Lucia thought, and caught the quick glance Lady Weston threw her way. Lucia might not know Lord Ashton, but she knew Lady Weston, at least by reputation. The woman did not suffer fools gladly. And any man who put up with Lady Charlotte would have to be a fool.

Finished with her task, Lady Weston pulled Charlotte around to face the door. "I'm sure mamma knows best," she said, patting the younger girl on the arm and guiding her out the door. She continued to hold the door until Lucia was able to join them. Biting her lip in hesitation, Lucia followed them out. Surely, the gentleman would be gone by now.

Lucia envied the way Lady Weston and Lady Charlotte glided down the stairs. She was so used to running up and down the stairs at her home that it took a lot more concentration for her to go slowly. The last thing she wanted to do was end up in a heap at the bottom of the stairs. Intent on placing one foot in front of the other, she ran into the post at the bottom. At least, she thought it was the post until warm, firm hands came up to grasp her arms at the same time she looked up.

She closed her eyes in embarrassment. It was the dark haired man from across the room. Immediately, she felt the blood rush to her face, and then just as quickly recede leaving her feeling light headed. Roger would have laughed at the irony; she was just appalled it happened. Nothing she ever did was graceful; if it had been she would have been able to walk down the steps without running into anyone.

She saw his lips moving, but couldn't understand what he was saying. She was too distraught to be able to follow his lips, and try to guess at the words he was saying , as she did with everyone. A quick glance to man's eyes showed a slight impatience, but he hid it well. She didn't think she would like him to be impatient with her, then quickly admonished herself for her thoughts. She didn't know him, and after the way he looked at her across the dance floor, she wasn't sure she wanted to.

Instead, she turned to face her hostess, hoping the other woman would realize her plea for assistance without making her speak.

"I am sorry, Ashton," Miriam said, hastily introducing them. At the same time, she seemed to be trying to shove Lady Charlotte out of the way, which Lucia thought odd behavior on Lady Weston's part. Finally, when it appeared the younger woman was not going anywhere Ashton was not, Lady Weston presented her too.

"It's not well known, Ashton, but Lady Lucia is deaf. She is not ignoring you."

Lucia could see Lady Weston speaking to Lord Ashton, but from the position of the woman's body she was unable to follow what was said. She decided it must not concern her since Lord Ashton never glanced in her direction.

At first, Miriam's words were just a statement of facts to Justin. So this was Roger's sister. No wonder Roger had been so insistent that Justin extend his offer to help at any time to include her. She looked young and vulnerable.

Then, the full impact of Miriam's words hit him. He felt as if he had taken a cannonball to the gut. This was definitely not what he expected. Roger hadn't said anything about his sister's ...difficulty. Briefly he wondered if Roger thought he would do less, or even nothing at all, if he discovered his sister would need extra care.

"How quaint."

When Lucia saw both the earl and Lady Weston turn toward Lady Charlotte, she followed their gaze but was too late to catch the other girl's comments.

"I've never met an antidote," Lady Charlotte said. She studied Lucia with a wide-eyed gaze.

Lucia felt herself grow warm again and wondered if people really did die from embarrassment. She knew she should be used to such comments, having been aware of them for years. Perhaps it was because she was in Lord Ashton's company and she had wanted to appear normal.

"There are many type of antidotes," Ashton said.

Charlotte's laughter trilled out. "You are funning me. Mamma said you were serious minded."

"I do not think he's funning at this moment, Charlotte." Grasping the younger girl's arm, Lady Weston dragged her away. "We can tell your mamma how you met the Earl of Ashton."

Lady Charlotte stood her ground, and didn't move an inch. Her mouth curved downward before she said, "Oh, no. She will want to know why we had not danced."

Lucia watched her hostess firmly grasp the younger girl's arm and guide her back into the throng of the party. For a moment, she actually felt sorry for the chit. Then she felt Lord Ashton's gaze on her.

Quickly, she looked at his mouth. She could tell it was moving, but the low lighting in the area made it nearly impossible for her to see what he said.

When she made no response, Justin briefly closed his eyes. She hadn't heard him. His eyes snapped open and he studied her for a moment, realizing she had communicated with Miriam and seemed to understand everything that transpired. So, how had she done it? Justin prided himself on his logic, and in a moment he realized she must watch the way the person's lips formed the words. And for that, she would need light.

Taking her hand, and laying in on the crook of his arm, he escorted her to Tony's study. It was one place he could be relatively certain to find peace. She hesitated a fraction of a second, then followed him.

After he lit two of the oil lamps in the room and turned to look at her, he realized she did indeed bear quite a resemblance to his friend, but in such a feminine manner it was easy to see how he overlooked it. She definitely had the same stubborn, squared chin, and the shape of her eyes was identical. Even her hair color matched Roger's.

Lucia felt a moment of unease as they entered Lord Weston's study and wondered why Lord Ashton felt it necessary to bring her there, even though he had been perfectly gentlemanly and removed her hand from his arm as they entered.

Once her eyes adjusted to the light, the first thing Lucia realized was that Lady Charlotte was wrong -- Lord Ashton was not old. Not old at all. Instead of the elderly uncle image she expected, she saw a man in his prime, blessed with classical features and a quickness of movement attesting to his years of physical activity. She had not expected that from the bits and pieces of information she had accumulated on the earl. Yet, she seldom erred in understanding what a person's body told her.

With a start she realized she had spent far too much time studying him and as a result probably missed something of import. Hastily, she turned her eyes to his face, and found he was patiently waiting until he had her complete attention before speaking. A small kindness, but one she appreciated

"I am a very close friend of your brother."

Lucia nodded as she caught his words. "I am aware of that. It is one of the reasons I wanted to meet you."

"I wondered why you agreed to follow me in here."

Lucia grew warm at what he must have thought of her. Even on her own for much of the time she knew women did not go off alone with strange men. She resisted the urge to raise her hand to her cheek. "I know it was very forward of me." Well, she did know it, she reminded herself. She just didn't care. "I had not actually planned to speak to you tonight."

"Why are you speaking now? Using your voice? You had plenty of opportunity out there," he motioned to the study door leading to the foyer, "yet you kept silent."

"I know my voice is very annoying, so I try not to speak any more than I have to." She hated to speak to strangers, and to have to speak to this one made her want to cower in shame, yet she knew she had to find out about Roger and he was her best source. She hadn't heard from her brother in several weeks and that was very much unlike him. Not to mention the pressing problem of the squire.

"It is different, not annoying."

Lucia shrugged. "It doesn't matter. I am not here to discuss my voice."

"Why are you here?"

"To ask for help." Before he could comment, she continued. "I really need to discuss something with Roger, but I have no idea where he is. He always told me to come to you if I needed assistance and he was not about." She didn't like asking for help. Detested it. She certainly wouldn't be here if there had been anyone else to turn to, but there wasn't. While she loved her aunt dearly, she was not exactly the most stable of personalities. She let her gaze drop, studying her fingers as they played with the wrist ribbon of her fan even as she spoke. As a result she missed Ashton's answer.

She felt his hand on her face, forcing her chin up to look at him and wondered at the warmth that spread through her face at his light touch. No matter what she felt, he must not have noted it, because he dropped his hand to his side as soon as he had her attention.

"I do not give my word lightly, Lady Lucia. At the moment, I have some concerns for your brother myself."

"Where is he?"

"I wish to God I knew." When she made no response, merely continued to stare at him with widened eyes, he continued. "I have not heard from him in several weeks. One of my express concerns in the next few days was to meet with his family to see if there is any news."

Lucia cocked her head to one side as if trying to absorb everything he said, and in truth she did try. Too much of what he said was difficult for her to follow, but she thought she had most of it right. She wrapped her arms around herself. It had to be something awful for Roger not to have contacted her, for his friend to search for her, never mind that she found him first. For the first time, she dared to consider her brother might not be alive.

Justin knew the exact moment she thought Roger could be dead. She closed her eyes briefly and hugged herself tighter. He wondered if she were even aware of the small sound of despair that passed her lips. "I don't know exactly what's wrong, so don't..." When she hadn't lifted her head to listen to him, he recalled she would not hear him.

Gently he reached out his hand and used a finger to lift her chin to face him and slowly repeated himself. Justin caught the glint of gold highlighted in her hair. As she raised her head he wondered how he could have thought her hair the same color as Roger's.

"Just because I haven't heard directly from him, doesn't mean he's in trouble. He could be perfectly fine." She watched his face closely, so he took care to exaggerate his words. Even as he said the words he knew they were a lie, yet he couldn't stand to see the distress on her lovely face.

"Somehow, I do not think so, otherwise you would not be worried."

Justin arched one eyebrow at that. "Why would you think I am concerned? Roger is a man used to taking care of himself."

"For quite some time," she agreed. "But, you would not have come looking for me if you were not worried."

A rueful smile lifted the one corner of his mouth. "Very good deduction, Lady Lucia." So, the woman had brains as well as beauty. A very unusual combination in his experience -- and a dangerous one.

She gave him a genuine smile and he swore the room grew brighter for it. He reminded himself that he merely wanted to speak with her, that he was not to really notice how very attractive he found her. But it was difficult. How long had it been since a woman smiled along with him, and not merely to flirt? He couldn't even recall if there had been such a time.

"You lead me to believe there is another matter in which I can lend you assistance."

Lucia played with the ribbon on her fan for a moment before seeming to come to a decision. "There is another matter, but perhaps it would be best if I waited before speaking of it."

Justin nodded once, indicating he respected her privacy.

She turned and headed toward the door. "Now, I have been gone much too long, and even a hostess as busy as Lady Weston may have to wonder what has happened to me."

She was probably correct. Justin should have considered the matter himself, for if there was one thing he did extremely well, it was following the social niceties. He long ago discovered they could cover most activities. But here he was, so intrigued by her that the matter totally slipped from his mind. It should have annoyed him that she was right, that she had been away from her chaperone for too long, but it didn't. Instead, he shuddered to think what it would do to her reputation if anyone discovered it had been him she had slipped in to meet. Now, that was a novel thought! Briefly, he wondered when was the last time he had cared about a woman's reputation.

***

Returning to the ballroom, Lucia spied her aunt standing near Lady Weston and hoped the older woman was making her farewells. She had not planned to be away as long as she had, but she didn't regret it. Her original intentions before coming to London were to meet with the man and explain the terms she and Roger had established for her attaining and controlling her own money when she reached a reasonable age. Instead, she discovered he was just as concerned as she over her brother's disappearance. She had hoped to learn something by attending this ball tonight, and she had. Even though her initial meeting with Lord Ashton had been embarrassing, she was glad it was over with. From Charlotte's description tonight, and small hints Roger had dropped, she had pictured a kindly, older uncle. Not the reality of Lord Ashton.

"There you are, my dear," Lady Saxson, a friend of her aunt, said as she spotted Lucia. "I was just telling your aunt what a lovely young woman you are, and how surprised I was not to see you on the dance floor. You've been much too quiet my dear, and I just didn't have the opportunity to introduce you to Lord Ashton."

"Oh, Lady Weston mentioned that they have already met," her aunt said. "He is a dear friend of our host and hostess, you know. Lady Weston made the introduction."

Lucia cast a quick look at her aunt. Obviously Lady Weston moved much quicker than she. Watching the other woman turn that particular shade of puce was entertaining, but it wouldn't be politic to point that out. Recalling that Lady Saxson was Lady Charlotte's aunt, she opened her fan to hide her grin. Then remembering what trouble she caused the first time around with her fan, she quickly snapped it shut.

A firm hand on her shoulder made her look up, and she found the earl standing next to her. Immediately his hand fell to his side. Lucia appreciated the gesture as a means of quietly attracting her attention, as well as the fact that he didn't let his hand linger against her shoulder. Though she had to admit his touch was not at all unpleasant, it would be sure to cause a few tongues to wag. Turning to face the older women, Justin smiled at them, then requested the pleasure of calling at Roger's house on the morrow.

"I assume that's where you are staying?"

"Yes," her aunt replied. "I tried to convince Lucia to wait until her brother got home, but she absolutely insisted on harrying down here."

Lucia felt herself blush again under Lord Ashton's perusal, Really, this would have to stop. She never blushed this much. And whatever for? The earl certainly didn't seem attracted to her in any way other than she was Roger's sister and might have news of him.

"We'll look for you, my lord." Then giving Lady Saxson a smug look, her aunt excused both of them and hurried Lucia on the way to the coach. Lucia knew her aunt was speaking on the way home, but in the dark she had no way of knowing what the woman said, and was too worried about Roger to really care.

***

"He's very interested, I say," her aunt told her for the tenth time in that many minutes, as they sat in the parlor after breakfast. "Did you see the look on Lady Saxson's face when he asked to call on you? I thought she would explode right there. Yes, he's very interested, I can tell."

"No, Aunt. He is not interested. He is a friend of Roger's. He told you that. I told you that."

"But he is interested. I can tell."

As her aunt followed her around, speaking the entire time. Lucia kept from rolling her eyes in frustration. She thought the morning would never end, she couldn't bear one more speculation on her aunt's part as to why Lord Ashton was coming to visit. She had her own speculations as to what news he had to tell her of her brother.

No matter what he had said the previous day, Roger must be in some type of trouble or he would not have sought her out. By the time the earl was announced, she was nearly in tears with suspense.

***

Purposely avoiding the drawing room whenever it was occupied by women only, Justin had forgotten just how much one older woman could talk. But then, even he could not recall meeting any that could out-speak Lady Bentworth. By the time they finished their tea, Justin still hadn't had a chance to state his purpose in visiting. The woman could put many of the members of the House of Lords to shame when it came to airing her opinions! Odd, Roger never mentioned his aunt. Nor did he make much reference to his sister, if he ever had. Justin frowned when he considered that. He would have to learn the reason for Roger's omission once he caught up with him. They had known each other for too many years for it not to be deliberate.

When Justin realized he would have to come up with another way to speak to Lucia alone, he hit upon a nice sedate drive in the park. No sooner had the words passed his lips, he noticed Lady Betworth's eyes sparkle and she beamed a smile at him. He recognized the same smile he had seen on the faces of numerous hopeful mammas over the years, and wondered that the sight of this one didn't send him running as the others had. If he had not wanted to speak to Lady Lucia, he would have wished the words unsaid. The last thing he needed was for someone to see them and link Lady Lucia's name with his. It would certainly do her no good.

***

Always careful of appearances, Justin kept to the center of the park. This was a fine plan, but he wondered how he was going to possibly find a moment to talk to her when the horses needed his full attention. Spotting a clearing near the copse of trees in near the center of the park, he hastily pulled over. They would be in full view of anyone about the park and he would have a chance to speak with her.

"I didn't mean to upset you last night," he started after he turned to face her.

She waved away his explanation. "You did not tell me anything I did not already know." She tilted her head to one side, studying him. "Is that why you wanted to speak with me privately? So as not to upset my aunt?"

He nodded. He didn't dare tell her he just felt a compelling need to spend time with her, without her aunt interfering every few moments.

Not waiting for an answer, she reached for her reticule, and pulled out a few letters. "These are Roger's last few letters home. I thought perhaps they would help you."

Instinctively, Justin reached for them. "You don't mind?" he asked again before tucking them in his coat pocket.

She shook her head. "How could I mind? Roger told me he trusted you with his life. And we are only brother and sister. There's nothing in the letters that anyone could not read."

So, Roger trusted him with his life, and he may have very well let him down. She had no idea how her words sliced through him.

"I'll return these as soon as I'm done reading them."

"Just send them to Roger's house," she directed. "We'll be heading back to Raven's Peak in the morning."

"I will let you know as soon as I discover anything." The earl gathered the reins and eased the horses and curricle onto the path. He didn't really expect to find anything in the letters, but one never knew. It had been too long since he had heard from Roger, and for his own peace of mind he would like to know what had been happening. Perhaps there would be a name or a place that he overlooked, something Roger may have mentioned to his sister.

Pulling up in front of the Town house, Justin jumped down from the curricle and turned to assist Lucia. He gave her hands a quick squeeze when he helped her down. "Don't worry, I'll do my best to find him."

She nodded that she understood him, and quickly withdrew her hands. With her back straight, she walked up the few steps to Roger's front door. She felt Ashton's gaze on her every step of the way, but refused to turn around.

"He's the nicest young man, isn't he?" her aunt said when they were alone again. "You can always tell when a man is born to a certain station in life -- always so polite, so careful of his duties."

Lucia tuned out after the first few phrases and let her gaze drift beyond her aunt. Nothing she said seemed to matter to the woman. If her aunt weren't so intent on marrying her off, Lucia thought she could deal with the older woman's flights of fancy a bit better. But anytime a male looked at Lucia, or spoke to her, Aunt Amelia checked his background for suitability. Thank goodness she hadn't discovered anyone to meet her exacting standards yet, although Lord Ashton seemed to be coming awfully close.

"Really aunt," she said, interrupting more of the cataloging of the earl's graces, "I assure you he is not interested in me, personally."

"Bu...but you went for a drive together. Surely that shows some interest. I would just loved to have seen the look on the faces of some of the people. Now, tell me who did you see while you were out?"

Lucia shook her head at her aunt's eagerness. The woman talked so fast she could barely keep up, but she managed to get the gist of what she said. "We didn't see anyone while we were out. And the only thing we talked about was Roger."

"Roger! But, Roger's not here."

Lucia couldn't help smiling at her aunt's observation. "So true, dear aunt. Which is precisely why we were talking about him." If he were here, she thought, she would neither be in London nor have to pay attention to her aunt's constant praising of Lord Ashton. Leaning over to give her aunt a quick peck on the cheek, she ignored the little voice in her head telling her she would never have had the opportunity to meet Ashton if not for her brother's disappearance. "Now, if you don't mind, I am going to go to my room and get things ready to pack. I'd like to leave for Raven's Peak first thing in the morning."

"Leave? Lucia Marie we just got here. Why you've hardly been to any assemblies."

"Stay if you want, aunt, but I am leaving in the morning." With that, she turned and headed up the stairs. Her aunt meant well, but the woman could be so tiring.

The next day was overcast and threatening rain, enough so that she even considered her aunt's desire to remain another day, after all she didn't have anything pressing. She gave it serious consideration, at least until her aunt mentioned that Lady Bentley was having a small gathering that evening. Without a second thought, she told Claude to continue packing the carriage and inform her aunt they were heading home.

Chapter 2

Somehow, her travels did not go precisely as anticipated. The weather gave her aunt a headache and the woman constantly complained about it. And just because Lucia couldn't hear didn't mean she was exempt from the complaints. Every time her aunt had something to say, she poked Lucia in the ribs to catch her attention.

"You're the most unsympathetic creature, Lucia."

Lucia tried to put on a suitably sympathetic look. That seemed to mollify her aunt for all of thirty seconds. As soon as Lucia looked out the window, she felt her aunt poke her again.

"You're never ill so you don't know how terrible it is to feel poorly."

Lucia wanted to shut her eyes against her aunt's complaints, but knew that would only earn her another poke. Sighing, she finally gave it up, and suggested they stop for a bite to eat. "Perhaps once you have a full stomach, the pain will be more bearable. Would you please notify Claude?"

"Perhaps a light meal would be best."

Then, she sat back and closed her eyes, thankful the poking stopped. In truth, she wanted to be back at Raven's Peak as soon as she could and stopping would not aid that goal. She had enough of society and the pretensions there. She wanted to be home, to be in Cook's kitchen, or to spend time riding through the countryside without having to worry about who she was seen with and whom she was seen by.

All too soon they stopped at the Duck and Loon and she had to leave the carriage.

Inside, she let her aunt make all the necessary arrangements, then followed the innkeeper to the large private room in the back. It should have been private, she thought, when to her dismay they found it already occupied by two men.

As soon as her aunt recognized the men, she became all smiles and one would never have known the woman had a headache at all.

"My dear Lady Bentworth how delightful to see you again," Lord Weston said. "I hope you don't mind sharing, but if you do, say the word and Ashton and I will be happy to move."

"Oh, nonsense," her aunt said, while poking Lucia in the ribs to get her attention. "We'd be delighted to have your company. Such a dreary day, isn't it? I tried to convince Lucia to wait until tomorrow to take off, but you know how these young people are when they get an idea in their head."

Lucia turned in time to catch the basis of her aunt's conversation and did everything to prevent rolling her eyes at the woman's scheming. If Lord Weston hadn't been present, she might have pointed out to her aunt that Lord Ashton wasn't all that much older than she.

When the serving girls carried in their luncheon, Lord Weston directed them to their seats. When she failed to pay attention, she realized it a moment too late and found him staring at her oddly. Raising her chin, she headed toward one of the chairs when the earl took her hand and drew it through his arm as if they were going in to dinner. She flashed him smile of gratitude since he obviously realized she hadn't a clue to what his friend had said.

Once seated, she paid little attention to the conversation and occasioned an odd look from Lord Weston, but ignored it for the most part. By chance, when she did glance in his direction, she caught the end of his latest comment.

"So, you're headed south, are you?"

Her aunt gave a laugh. "My niece has it in her head that she's had enough of the London season."

"But the season hasn't even started," Lord Weston replied, clearly stunned.

"I keep telling the child that, but she refuses to listen. Says she wants to be back at Raven's Peak, and we all must follow."

Lucia tried to keep the accusation out of her stare at her aunt, but she really had enough. She was saved from speaking by Ashton. Laying a hand on her arm for a moment so he had her attention, he addressed the others.

"There's something to be said for country lifestyle I'm rather partial to it myself."

Lord Weston laughed at that. "You're a rustic, Justin, and everyone knows it. No secret there," he said, shaking his head. "No secret at all. A good fishing spot and you won't see him for days."

Lucia nearly grinned at the expression on her aunt's face. Lucia suddenly looked on Lord Weston as an ally. He may not have known it, but he said the perfect thing to keep her aunt from harping about the wonders of society. One thing Aunt Amelia knew was you couldn't change an outdoorsman no matter how you tried. Hadn't she devoted years to that very subject with her own brother, Lucia's father?

"In that case, my lord," her aunt addressed Ashton,

"You simply must make it a point to stop at Raven's Peak. The fishing there is superb, and the hunting -- why some of the best game parks in the country are at Raven's Peak, isn't that so, Lucia?"

Poke.

Lucia bit back a groan, gave the men a weak smile and nodded in agreement. She obviously seriously underestimated her aunt and wondered what game the woman was playing. Surely she didn't -- couldn't -- still think Lord Ashton was interested in her.

"I most certainly will make it a point," Ashton agreed. "In fact, as my business with Weston is done for the time being, perhaps you would permit me to escort you to Raven's Peak?"

"That would be lovely," her aunt agreed at the same time Lucia was shaking her head in denial. What was the woman thinking?

***

Justin rode beside the carriage, and wondered why he so willingly put aside other work to follow up on the old woman's invitation. It didn't help matters that Tony practically threw him into the situation, but he at least knew Tony's reasons. His own he was less sure of.

He supposed from Tony's point of view, it really was too good of an opportunity to miss. They had just been discussing how a visit to Raven's Peak might be in order to see if there might be some other reason for Roger's disappearance.

Lucia angled her head so she could see out the window without making it obvious. She wanted to know where they were and how much longer before they finally arrived at Raven's Peak, but looking directly out invariably brought Lord Ashton into view. Not that his form was displeasing -- quite the opposite. Sitting relaxed in the saddle, he looked born to it. But even she, with what little etiquette training she possessed, knew it would not do to be caught staring at him.

And it seemed no matter when she looked out, she would catch glimpse of his long legs encased in his Hessians. In a huff, she threw herself back against the cushions and closed her eyes. She didn't want to be caught looking at him and she certainly didn't want to watch whatever her aunt had to say. Finally, the concentration of staring straight ahead, and the jostling of the carriage combined with the steady pounding of hooves, lulled her into a deep sleep. She was oblivious to the world until her aunt shook her awake. Still somewhat disoriented, she blinked as she watched her aunt leave the carriage before putting her hand out for assistance.

When hard fingers closed over hers she looked up into Ashton's face and gasped. She had totally forgotten his presence while she slept and fully expected to see one of the footmen. She made to withdraw her hand, but Ashton kept a firm grip on her fingers and pulled her gently forward until she was off balance and practically tumbled into his arms.

That it took longer than a second must have been her own perception because her aunt still stood beside the carriage waiting for her before making her way into the house and appeared to notice nothing amiss.

Raven's Peak never failed to welcome her. Modest in comparison to some surrounding manor houses, its position at the peak of the outcropping of rocks, as if it sprouted from the rocks itself, gave it an imposing air. To the left, its parks and streams were a lush green, the trees forming a natural shade canopy near the paths. To the right, the sheer rock cliff led down to the sea, leaving that side of the house stark against the sky. The mullioned windows caught the sun and reflected back the surroundings, making the house itself appear nearly silver from the blue of the sky.

She turned her head, wanting to see Lord Ashton's reaction, although she knew it shouldn't matter to her. He touched her shoulder, catching her attention, and told her how lovely the house was. Her aunt made some comment, but Lucia didn't concentrate and missed what she said, not that she worried overmuch about it. Knowing her aunt, it would be repeated. Anxious to be inside, she led the way into the house where she was greeted by Kate, the housekeeper, who quickly took both of Lucia's hands in hers and gave her a good looking over before embracing her and giving her a peck on the cheek.

The older woman stepped back, then held Lucia's face between her hands to make sure she followed every word. "Were you able to learn anything in London?"

Lucia tried to nod, but it was difficult with Kate holding her face.

"I met Lord Ashton," she said, indicating the earl standing next to her aunt. "He's a friend of Roger's and is looking for him too."

The older woman dropped a curtsey and quickly apologized to the earl. "Miss Lucia isn't used to society ways, my lord," she said.

Lucia was relieved to see the earl smile at Kate, putting her at ease.

"He'll be here for a few days, Kate, so please see that a room is prepared for him," Aunt Amelia said.

Lucia finally turned to face him. "I leave you in very capable hands, my lord. If you will excuse me, I'd like to freshen up before dinner."

"I'll see you then?"

"Of course."

Kate came and put her arm around Lucia and led her up the stairs.

Now Justin was thoroughly intrigued. If his acquaintances thought Monty was too familiar he wondered where that would leave Lucia, and her Kate. And the coachman too, now that he thought on it. He was about to ask Lady Bentworth when one of the footmen appeared and offered to take him to his room and find something of Master Roger's that he could use for dinner.

"If you wish, my lord, a messenger can be sent right off and you'll have your own things very soon."

"That won't be necessary. I made arrangements to have my things sent here before I left the inn, but something fresh for dinner would be nice."

And Monty had better hurry and send his own things, he thought a short while later when he slipped into some of Roger's borrowed clothes. Justin always thought they were close in size, but after squeezing into Roger's jacket, he found out differently. The length was fine, but any tighter across the shoulders and he wouldn't be able to cut his own meat.

Making his way down to the dining room, he couldn't help but think over the oddity of everyone's behavior at Raven's Peak. Everything was treated very informally, almost too much so. Yet as far as he could tell, everything seemed to run smoothly. Lucia was certainly at an age to be in charge, yet she appeared to defer many of the decisions to her aunt, or even the housekeeper. Since most of the servants seemed to refer to Roger by his childhood title, Justin assumed they had been here for a long time.

By the time dinner was served there was still no sign of Lucia. Instead, Justin found Lady Bentworth was the only one waiting for him.

"Shouldn't we wait?" Every dictate in his upbringing demanded he do so.

Lady Bentworth waved a hand in the air. "There's no need, my lord. Lucia wanted to catch Kate before she sat down to her own supper. She should be along shortly."

Puzzled, but doing as requested, Justin escorted the older woman into the dining room and seated her at the table.

"Gracious," Lady Bentworth said, after she was seated. "I never did find out why you decided to accompany us home, my lord."

Justin smiled at her, and neatly side stepped the question. "Please, Ashton will do. Now that I'm staying at your lovely home, we can't have you pretending we're strangers."

Lady Bentworth blushed. "That's so sweet of you, my l -- Ashton. But, you know this is not my home. I merely reside here. All of this is Roger's. Indeed, I keep waiting for the lad to bring home a mistress for all of this."

"I thought Lady Lucia took care of the household."

"Lucia? I suppose she does to an extent, but if she misses something, rest assured Kate will take care of it."

Justin knew many houses where the housekeeper took care of day to day running of the household, but always under the direction of its mistress. This sounded too bizarre, as if Kate were the only one who knew what was going on.

By time they finished the first course, Lucia still had not appeared, but her aunt didn't appear at all concerned.

"I'm sure she'll be along," she said. "Kate probably has a dozen questions for her."

"That is one thing that puzzles me," Justin said. "When we were with Lord Weston, Lady Lucia didn't speak at all, yet I know that she can."

"You do?" Her aunt laid her fork down slowly, then stared at him. Finally, she smiled, then picked her silverware back up. "Of course you do. You heard her when we entered the house. Lucia's very sensitive as to whom she speaks around, you know."

Justin leaned back in his chair and studied the older woman. "Is that a fact? She seemed to speak to everyone here."

"Oh, she's very comfortable here. How could she not be? They've all had a hand in raising her."

Before he could comment he noticed Lucia entering the room and hastily rose to seat her. He stood so close he could inhale the scent of her, fresh lavender, and breathed deeply, before stepping away from her and reseating himself.

So, the lovely Lady Lucia didn't speak to everyone. That was an interesting bit of information. He would have never guessed that since she had spoken to him when they first met. Justin wondered what else he would learn during his stay at Raven's Peak. Regardless of whatever else he discovered, he knew he was attracted to Lucia. Even so, there was nothing to be done about it. One did not seduce a friend's sister. It just wasn't the done thing, he thought wryly. Still, there was nothing to prevent him from enjoying her company. She was definitely different from most of the other young ladies he'd met.

Dinner was quieter than he expected. If he had expected Lucia to speak with him, he was disappointed. She sat there quietly, accepting the food as it was offered, but not volunteering any responses to comments made at the table. Since she wouldn't look at him long enough for him to form a sentence, the questions he needed to ask her would have to wait. Besides, his questions would more likely yield better results without her aunt around.

By the time Lucia excused herself and turned in for the night, Justin decided that would be the best thing for him too. It would give him an earlier start in the morning and daylight would give him the opportunity to search the grounds of Roger's home. What exactly he hoped to find, he didn't know, but something drew him to Raven's Peak, and he did not like to think it was Lucia. He reassured himself that even Tony thought Raven's Peak deserved a visit.

***

After Lucia's late appearance at dinner the day before Justin would not have been at all surprised to find she was one for taking breakfast in her room. However, he was pleasantly surprised to find her seated at the table, the pale sunlight highlighting the strands of gold in her hair.

"Good morning, my lord," Lucia said as he entered the room. He noted the servants slowing at their tasks, looking at one another as if surprised to hear her speaking to him. Catching his gaze, they slowly restarted their tasks. Justin knew they had heard her speaking before now and wondered why it would interest them this time. Surely she spoke to all the guests at her house.

"Ashton."

She tilted her head to one side and paused in the middle of buttering a roll to look at him. "I am trying to recall Roger mentioning you, and cannot, m -- Ashton."

"And a young girl would remember such things?" He found that rather difficult to believe. He knew he could recall nothing of her existence, yet he had been friends with Roger for decades, though not a frequent visitor to Raven's Peak. Briefly, he wondered now if that were not because of Lucia's existence.

"Excuse me."

When Justin repeated himself, remembering to speak slowly so she could follow his words, he was rewarded with a smile.

"I recall Percival and Justin." She flashed him a smile. "Roger always had tales."

Justin inclined his head. "Then you do indeed know of me. My family name is Justin Drake."

"I did not know. Roger has referred to you so often over the years. I shall feel quite comfortable calling you Ashton since you are his friend."

Justin restrained himself from shaking his head. Any number of people coveted the invitation to so.

As if a thought just occurred to her, her eyes widened. "I'm afraid aunt Amelia has breakfast in her room." She bit her lower lip. "I should have thought to ask if you would prefer it."

Justin could see that she thought she omitted something important, and hastily reassured her that was not the case.

"I prefer to come down for breakfast."

"I am delighted to have pleasant company in the morning."

"As am I." He took a sip of his coffee before speaking again "If you don't mind, I would like to take a ride around the estate, and would be grateful if you would accompany me."

"Not very good company there," a deep masculine voice said from the doorway.

Turning at the sound, Justin watched a somewhat older, heavyset gentleman enter the room. He walked directly over to the table and tossed his gloves on the nearby chair with easy familiarity.

"Squire Bethel," the gentleman said. "And you are...?"

Justin stayed seated and looked over the man slowly, from head to toe, before answering. "Ashton."

"Ashton. I've heard of you," the squire said. "Caused a bit of ruckus in the House of Lords, I understand. Fighting against putting those Luddites to death."

Ashton cocked one eyebrow in the Squire's direction, but it did little to stop the flow of words.

"They have to learn they can't be breaking those machines." The squire shook his head. "What a waste of time. You could be doing other things." Justin glanced at Lucia, expecting her to provide more of an introduction to the clod, but she was staring down at her plate and he was too far away to catch her attention.

Picking up a plate at the sideboard, Bethel helped himself to a very substantial breakfast before joining them at the table. When Lucia still hadn't lifted her head, Bethel waved his hand in front of her face until she looked up.

"Good morning, love." His voice was exceptionally loud and his speech exaggerated. Lucia gave him a tight smile, but didn't say a word.

"She's simple, you know," the squire said.

Justin turned to see Lucia's reaction, but she merely looked at him, no expression on her face; her green eyes dull.

"Is that a fact?"

The squire didn't ease up on his breakfast. "A real shame, but that's life. Good enough looking though, so getting heirs won't be a chore, if you get my drift."

Justin felt as if he couldn't catch his breath. The audacity and the crudeness of the man before him, was past any limits of polite society. For him to think such thoughts was one thing, but to bring it up in front of Lucia, especially to an unknown guest, was simply not done. If the squire were a frequent visitor Justin could understand why Lady Amelia took breakfast in her room.

"I thought a man of your stature would surely have been married a number of years."

"Oh, I was married, Ashton." The squire paused to take a bite of his eggs. "The demme horse- faced chit died before getting an heir. Now I have to go through the whole thing again. Decided Lucia here would fit the bill just fine," he said, waving his fork in Lucia's direction.

Justin leaned forward, his arms crossed at the elbows where he rested them on the table. "And what if she says no?"

Bethel stopped eating for a moment and stared at the earl before laughing loudly. When he finished, he wiped his eyes with the back of his hand.

"Amusing fellow, Ashton. Never thought that from what I read in the papers."

Justin raised one eyebrow, and for the first time, Bethel seemed to realize the earl was not laughing.

Justin looked to see Lucia's reaction, but she had her head down so he could not see the expression in her eyes or on her face, or could tell if she even followed the squire's comments. He hoped she had not. "You're serious, ain't you?"

"Perfectly."

When the squire resumed eating, Justin leaned back in his chair and watched the man for another moment before asking the question uppermost in his mind: Had Roger agreed to this alliance?

The manner in which the squire shifted in his seat convinced Justin that he had not approached Roger with his scheme yet, and his confidence in his friend was restored.

When he finished his meal, Bethel stood and came around the table to Lucia's seat. Grasping her chin in his hand with no forewarning, he turned her to face him.

"I'll take Ashton around the estate."

Lucia shook her head.

Bethel stepped back in surprise. "You can't mean you want to show him around. How will he ever know what's out there?"

Not dignifying his comment with an answer, Lucia pushed away from the table. When she stood, no one could mistake her attire for anything but a riding habit.

"Oh, I think we'll manage just fine," Justin told the squire. "Lady Lucia can tell me.I wouldn't imagine she is exactly a stranger to this area."

The Squire opened and closed his mouth a few times. "Of course she's not, but Lucia doesn't just talk to anybody." The Squire waved his had in the air, as if dismissing the issue. "Wouldn't want to listed to it anyway. Besides, thought you'd like a man's point of view." As if the thought only just occurred to him, the squire laid his napkin on the table and stood. "You know, since she doesn't speak, perhaps I'll come with you any way, point out local area of interests, that type of thing."

Justin felt Lucia stiffen next to him, but made she walked from the room as if nothing the squire had said mattered to her. He knew she had watched the Squire speak, probably wishing he would just shut up, he thought. When she passed the Squire the man refused to step out of her way so she had to look at him or give him the cut direct. Aston hoped for the latter.

***

Although it was later in the morning than she usually rode, Lucia found the air still retained some of the early spring crispness that made riding such a joy. And riding Guinivere only added to her enjoyment. Roger had given her the horse on her last birthday. Without a doubt, she was a sweet goer, and surprisingly swift.

She had agreed to ride with the earl and was glad she had not let Bethel's arrival keep her from doing so. Under normal circumstances someone from his sphere would never cross her path, but now that he had, and she had legitimate reasons to spend time with him, she intended to enjoy it. Her normal associates were the villagers and the servants. While she thoroughly enjoyed their company, they simply did not provide enough mental stimulation for her intellect.

She had no illusions about her life. She would most likely remain a spinster all her days, or if she did marry, it would be to someone like Bethel, and such a thought did not bear thinking about. Quick on the heels of that was the realization she had to find Roger soon. If not, the squire could indeed be in her future.

After touring through the park, and letting Bethel wax poetic about the hunting, Lucia led the small group down to the stream bordering Bethel's own property. If Lady Luck smiled on her, the squire would take the hint and find his way home from there. However, she had to admit the man had not been too annoying. Either that, or the earl's presence so intimidated him he kept his remarks to a minimum.

"Wonderful fishing here. Feel free to come here any time," the squire said when they stopped.

"I understood the stream was on Raven property."

"Yes. It is, of course. Didn't mean to make it sound like mine. At least it's not yet. Once I marry the gel I'm sure it'll all be considered one. You know, keep it in the family."

Justin gave him a tight smile, and turned his horse smartly about and waited for Lucia to follow suit.

As soon as she noticed the earl had turned, she joined him, and led the small party toward the opposite end of the property, toward the Channel.

Dismounting, with the intention walking and getting a closer look at the property, he headed toward Lucia only to find the squire ahead of him and already lending her assistance in dismounting.

Inclining her head in thanks, she turned to face Ashton, eager to be with him, yet knowing courtesy demand she remain with the squire. Even now she seethed at the man's careless words at breakfast. She no more desired to marry him than a snake, and if she caught up with Roger, she would make it very clear indeed that she would cheerfully join a convent rather than face life as Bethel's property.

She knew the real problem lie not in living with Bethel, but the very real fear she had he would lock her away. He made clear his viewpoints on her intelligence, or as he perceived it, her lack thereof. He didn't seem to understand her not being able to hear was merely a physical inconvenience, like him having to pad the shoulders of his jacket to make up for what nature hadn't endowed him with. If she spoke more often when she was with him, it might help, she thought, but he already made it known he found her voice decidedly unpleasant.

Walking toward the stream, she wondered at her audacity in even daring to speak in front of, let alone to, Lord Ashton.. He was Roger's friend, not hers. She glanced at him from beneath her eyelashes. He didn't look particularly pleased at the moment, but nothing untoward appeared to have happened, unless Bethel managed to say something and she missed it. Unfortunately that was entirely possible since she tried not to pay extra attention to the man. Lord knew he had enough outlandish ideas on his own and didn't need any encouragement from her.

When she reached Ashton's side, he turned and touched her shoulder, getting her attention, before pointing further along the coast.

"I don't know what you're pointing to," she told him without thinking what effect her words would have.

No sooner were the words out of her mouth than Bethel grasped her by the arm and turned her to face him.

"Silence, please," he told her, his own voice abnormally loud, as if his volume would make her actually hear him.

Lucia caught her lower lip between her teeth, and turned her head from him. She certainly did not intend to apologize

"What seems to be the problem?"

When Justin received no answer from either of them, he placed his hand on Lucia's shoulder, but did not withdraw it as his wont.

Lucia merely shook her head in denial, then looked perplexed when his hand remained on her shoulder.

"It would be best to tell me if there is a problem," he insisted, then sighed when he realized he spoke to the back of her head and there was no way she could possibly understand what he said.

Finally, Bethel forced a chuckle and Justin removed his hand. "Her voice is so distracting, not at all pleasant. We decided some time ago she shouldn't use it unless under dire necessity." Bethel shrugged. "Nothing for you to be concerned about. Now, was there something I could show you?"

"Somehow, I doubt it." Justin had released Lucia, but stood watching her. How could she possibly stand being around this boor? He didn't understand. Of course she knew the man better and perhaps he really wasn't as unpleasant as he first appeared, but as one who usually made split-second decisions and found them to be quite accurate, he found it difficult to believe the man was any different than he seemed.

Silently, Justin offered his arm to Lucia, then walked her to her horse. Linking his fingers and cupping his hands, he bent down far enough for her to place her booted foot in it and use it to mount her horse.

For the most part, Bethel ignored them as he followed them to the house; a much more quiet group than the one that started out. When they got to the main drive, Bethel took his leave and continued on to his home as Justin and Lucia made their way to the stable.

After helping Lucia dismount, Justin handed the reins of both horses to the groom and walked with her, fully expecting to go to the house. Instead, she headed toward the bridge leading over the north garden pond.

Once they were out of hearing range of anyone who might happen by, Justin caught Lucia's arm, and stopped. She turned to look at him curiously.

"Why have we stopped, my lord?"

Leaning one hip against the railing of the bridge, Justin turned to face her. She appreciated his effort to make certain she could see him clearly, and would be able to follow his lips with no difficulty. Or she should be able to, she thought. Concentrating on his firm lips, or the shape his mouth made as he spoke, brought to life all sorts of thoughts she'd never considered. Even now, when it seemed evident he was not in a hurry to part company -- a novelty in itself -- she couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to have those lips pressed against her own. Such a thought shocked even her and she quickly dropped her gaze lest he be able to read her thoughts. Unfortunately, that meant she couldn't "hear" what he was saying. Slowly raising her chin, she looked at him, totally relaxed, merely watching her.

"What right did Bethel have to reprimand you?"

She puzzled for a moment, and then shook her head. "I'm sorry. What did you say?"

"Why did Bethel correct you? What right does he have?"

She frowned, trying to imagine what he referred to when she recalled their earlier conversation. At that, she nearly laughed. To answer him would directly contradict what Bethel had said, but then, the earl had already heard her voice.

"None. The squire merely finds my voice very annoying." She gave a slight shrug. "We usually agree that I say as little as possible to him."

"Have you heard your voice?"

The question surprised her because no one had ever asked her such a thing that she could recall. "It's been quite a few years," she admitted. "But others have told me I should not use it."

"Who told you? Aside from Bethel, I mean."

"My parents. Nanny."

"Roger?"

She gave him a fleeting smile. "Oh no, Roger is just as tolerant as yourself. He used to encourage me to speak, although no one else really approved."

Justin placed both hands on her shoulders, causing her to look directly at him. "Would you believe me if I told you that I do not find your voice unpleasant."

She appeared surprised, then gave him a slight smile. "I would think you were being kind."

Justin snorted. "I am not a kind man by nature, Lucia. Trust me, your voice is different, but not unpleasant. It is somewhat throaty and when you speak carefully you sound almost as if you have an accent. You best watch in case someone mistakes you for a French émigré."

She gave him a full smile. No one had ever said such things to her before. "Then you do not mind if I speak to you?"

"Not at all. Think of me as Roger in his absence."

Lucia leaned against the railing of the bridge, no longer directly facing him, but she knew from the way his body leaned toward her he was listening. "It will be so pleasant to have someone to speak to for a change. Usually, there is only Aunt Amelia or Cook. Or Roger," she added. "But he is so seldom around these days I hardly ever see him."

"You know, Lucia," he said when he had her attention. "You speak remarkably well for someone who doesn't hear."

"I was not always deaf. Until I was eight, I heard perfectly. Then, that summer a lot of the villagers got sick, including those who came to work on the grounds. I was the only one in the family that got sick with a horrible fever. At one point, Roger told me, they thought I would not live, but I did."

"And the illness caused you to lose your hearing?"

"Yes. At first I could not hear in one ear, then slowly I heard less and less so that by the time I was twelve it affected both ears.

"I'm glad you didn't die," he said.

Lucia gave him a tentative smile. She had never told so much of her life to anyone. Not that anyone had asked. That he had done so, and appeared kind no matter what claims he made otherwise, made him even more special in her eyes.

Justin pushed away from the railing, and indicated she should precede him as they headed back up to the house.

***

The rest of the afternoon passed quickly for Lucia, not only because of the small household chores she chose to do, but because Ashton's questions had given her something to think about. Of course, if he could see her now he might have a few more questions of a different type, she thought. She doubted that he knew many ladies who would choose to do a few things for themselves. But then, she had never been a typical lady. Her illness was only partly to blame for that. For years, she hadn't thought about the illness that changed her life. There was no point in doing so. In all those intervening years, no one, aside from Roger, ever questioned why she didn't speak, or even indicated that they cared as to why she couldn't hear. That he brought up those questions carved a special place for him in her heart. She knew that wasn't safe thinking, but she couldn't prevent it. Roger was the only other person who ever seemed to be glad that she was still here with the living. Heaven knows it had not mattered to her own parents. If she had been a male it may have made a difference, but even then they already had Roger to ensure the estate's entailment, and that had been her father's primary concern.

Thinking of Roger reminded her she still had to meet with Ashton to see if there was anything she could do to help find her brother. She silently reprimanded herself for wasting time talking about herself earlier, when she should have been discussing Roger. True, she and her brother had not seen each other as often as she would have liked over the past few years, but she felt his absence.

After dinner, Lucia asked the earl if she could speak to him privately when her aunt took the opportunity to check with Kate on a pressing matter.

He cocked one eyebrow in her direction, then looked about the empty room. "We could speak here."

One private conversation a day was evidentially more than enough for him, but as if her earlier thoughts of Roger created a sense of urgency in finding him, she felt the need to take action.

"I wish to speak of Roger," she said, "without my aunt listening. Could we meet in the study in an hour."

"Of course, Lady Lucia."

He looked like he wished to say more, but her aunt returned and Lucia turned her attention back to her needlework, more so she would not have to answer any questions than because she was interested in the jumbled pattern taking shape under her fingers.

One advantage Lucia had over most young ladies her age was that no one checked up on her, and she was often left to amuse her self for hours on end. As a result, she had no trouble at all in slipping into the study.

Chapter 3

When she entered the study, she first thought it empty until she spied the earl standing in the shadows of the mantle. The only lamp lit was the one on Roger's desk and the circle of light was meager at best. She still felt awkward entering the room without Roger's presence. The furnishings were very much his own. When Thompson, the estate manager, came on business, he generally used the library.

Justin noticed her wariness the moment she walked into the room, still she was the one who wanted to speak to him. For a brief moment, he wished it were on some matter other than her brother.

He motioned her over and she came quickly to his side. She was so lovely he wondered how he could have thought her plain. Her hair's golden highlights gleamed in the lamplight, and though he couldn't make out her features clearly in the dim light, he recalled how clear her gaze had been earlier. Immediately, he became aware that she might not be able to see him well enough to read his lips, to understand what he said.

As if she understood his unspoken concerns, she left his side and went over to the desk, asking him to follow. She lengthened the wick on the oil lamp, then searched out a few candles.

"I apologize for asking you to meet me, but I need to talk about Roger," she said by way of explanation. "Were the letters of any use?"

"Afraid not. There did not appear to be anything out of the ordinary in them. Nothing I was not already aware of at any rate." That wasn't entirely true, but he saw no reason to worry her. Pulling the slim packet from his coat pocket, he passed them back into her hands. "I thought that might be the reason you wished to see me."

Taking the letters, she was careful not to brush against his fingers, he noted.

"Do you have any idea where he is? I have a feeling all is not well with him, but I have no idea where to begin searching." She gave him a weak smile. "I certainly cannot ask Aunt Amelia for advice in the matter. She would highly recommend sitting here until someone brought word."

"You are not to even think of searching for him on your own."

"I would enlist help, of course. Truthfully, my lord..."

"Ash, please.

"I am not comfortable being so familiar."

He sighed. Why didn't that surprise him? Here was someone who so obviously needed a friend, yet she wouldn't let him be one. Most people who knew him would not consider him a kind man. He told her the truth on that score. Yet, there had been a time his father ever despaired his son would be strong enough to carry out his duties when he would inherit the title. His father would be quite proud of him these days, he thought wryly. No longer was he the one to bring home the orphaned hedgehog.

"Nonsense. I have no desire to keep calling you Lady Lucia when Lucia is so much nicer."

"Very well... Ashton..."

He quirked an eyebrow in her direction, but when she continued on he realized she had not noted the motion because she was busy watching his lips. And the way she watched them so closely, made him think he'd better be more attentive to what she said.

"I have no idea if Roger is even in England, or if he is in France. If he is here, it would be easier for me to locate him. To find out if he needs help."

"Or there may not be. Truthfully, I have no idea where he is at the moment." That much was all too true. He wondered just how much she knew of Roger's involvement with government affairs. "Why do you think he may be out of the country?"

Lucia turned her back for a moment, as if trying to decide what would be the best thing to say, how much to confide in him. When she turned back to face him, he knew from the expression on her face only the truth would do.

"I know he would often go to France on business. He never told me what his business was, though I can guess it is nothing good."

"Why would you believe that? Roger's one of the most truthful people I know."

"Yes, he is. But if he were doing something to be proud of, I'm sure he would have told me."

Instinctively, she stretched her hand out and laid it on his arm, capturing his complete attention. "He told me I could trust you, Ashton. Does that mean even if he is involved in something horrid, you will not report him to authorities?"

He had never anticipated her drawing such a conclusion. "Perhaps." He could feel the warmth from her fingers seep through the sleeve of his coat, and knew he would not object to feeling the warmth of her skin in direct contact with his. Stretching out his hand he traced the outline of her jaw with his finger.

She looked so uncertain, whether from his touch or from worry of her brother he could not say. If it were the latter he could ease her concern, but knew it would be a foolish thing to do. Instead, he needed her to tell him what she suspected, to discover if she knew Roger's real business, or even if anything she knew could be used to help locate him. Previously, he had always known of Roger's missions and his agenda. That he was so in the dark now disturbed him. If Roger had been captured he needed to send someone in his place, or most likely go himself. Either way, it would need to be one quickly.

"Forget I said that." She dropped her gaze from his as if considering what she should say next. "It is just that I need help to find him. Yet, I wonder if that is in his best interest. If he is doing something illegal I do not want to see him arrested. I need him."

"I cannot make promises on things I am unaware of, Lucia. But I do promise to help find him and to assist him to the most of my ability. He is my friend and I would not see him in trouble." Even if he sent him there. "Now what do you suspect is so terrible?"

"I fear he's a smuggler." Now that it was out in the open, she breathed easier and seemed to realize for the first time, just how close she stood to Justin, and the impropriety of it. She took a hasty step backwards.

Justin ignored her movement, and gave her a lazy smile. If that was all she suspected he could breathe easy. "Do you really believe that?"

She shook her head, because she really didn't believe it. "But there is no other way I can explain the French brandy, the expensive fabrics that I see around here." She plucked at the fabric of her own gown, as if emphasizing her point.

"If that is all you have to go on, I assure you, Roger's no smuggler." It was difficult to keep a smile from tugging at his lips. In this area of the country, at least, the things she mentioned wouldn't raise an eyebrow.

Intent on twisting her hands together, she had not paid attention to his response. She wasn't sure there was anything he could say. As Roger's friend, and a peer, she knew he was Roger's best hope if he was involved in any illegal activity. Surely Roger meant for her to tell him, or he would never have given her Ashton's name.

Justin reached out a hand to cup her chin, forcing her to look at him, but unlike the other times, he did not immediately release her as he repeated Roger was not a smuggler.

When he suddenly dropped his hand she puzzled at his behavior when the study door opened and Kate breezed in.

"Oh, I did not expect to find you here, my lord." She stepped closer and discovered Lucia standing next to the earl. Giving Lucia a stern look, she addressed her comments to the earl. "You know this isn't at all proper, my lord. I can excuse Miss Lucia, because she may not know any better, but you certainly do."

***

Justin inclined his head in acknowledgement. In one way, he was highly amused that this housekeeper should address him in such a fashion, yet because he knew she had Lucia's best interest at heart he didn't take offense.

"Lady Raven was just leaving," Justin informed the housekeeper as he put his hand on Lucia's waist, escorting her out the door.

Smiling shyly at him, then at Kate, Lucia left and did not notice Kate behind her still talking to the earl.

"I know I shouldn't be talking to you like this, my lord, but with Master Roger missing, there isn't anyone else."

Justin raised one eyebrow and looked down at the woman, he knew it was a look that had many fellow peers dread his next words, and would often be enough for them to rethink their statements, but it seemed to have no effect on Kate. Well, he thought to himself, about the same effect it had on Monty, merely a pause for breath.

"Miss Lucia isn't like other girls..."

"My dear woman," Justin interrupted her, "I assure you, Lady Lucia is as safe with me as she would be with her brother."

The woman nodded, but did not look any more relieved.

"There is still a problem?" Justin couldn't help but admire the woman's dedication to her mistress.

"You are much too familiar with her person, my lord."

Kate looked as she expected a blow to land on her at any moment, and she hastily stepped back. Her reaction confused Justin because as far as he knew Roger was not a physically abusive man, even when there were times he should be.

"Would you rather I wave my arms in front of her face the way the squire does?"

"No, of course not, my lord. I'm sorry I spoke out of turn, but my mind is much more at ease now. Thank you for understanding." Dropping a quick curtsey she turned and left so quickly Justin expected to find hounds nipping at her heels. Something was definitely odd with the servants in this house, he thought. If he could not find any leads on Roger at least he would have the joy of unraveling the mystery at Raven's Peak. Definitely a curious lot of characters.

***

The morning dawned bright and clear, in complete opposition to Lucia's mood. Briefly, she considered having breakfast in her room, but knew that would cause more talk than if she just went down and faced whoever was at breakfast. Facing Ashton would be pleasant, but she feared it was the squire who would be present. And thoughts of Squire Bethel were not very pleasant at all. The man seemed more obnoxious yesterday than he had been in ages. She really needed Roger to get home, she thought. All she wanted was to set up her own household, and if Roger ever came back, she would be able to do so. He might not be tired of gallivanting around the countryside and who knew where else he went, but she was definitely tired of the squire's attention. And as for the London "gentlemen"...She shuddered. They didn't bear thinking about.

When the maid came to help her dress, Lucia chose her emerald green riding habit. Until yesterday, she normally preferred to ride before breakfast. But by appearing at the table already dressed for riding, she would be able to accompany the earl at a moment's notice. Even better, should she have to face the squire again, she preferred to look as if her plans were already made.

When she arrived in the morning room, it was to find Ashton already seated and tucking into a large breakfast of eggs and kippers. She noted he was dressed for riding, and by the appearance of his boots, he had had not yet been about.

"Good morning, my lord."

When he started to rise, she insisted he stay seated. Pouring herself some tea, and helping herself to a roll, she sat down across from him and reached for a section of the newspaper left there for that purpose. Before she could retrieve it a large brown hand covered hers. Startled, she looked into Ashton's face, and saw him smiling at her.

"Yes, my lord?" She knew she should move her hand, but his was so warm, and comforting on hers, she was loath to remind him it was there.

"Ash." He corrected her. At her nod, he continued. "Since there is no company today, perhaps you could ride with me along the shore?"

"It has been years since I rode down there." She had not ridden there since Roger strictly forbade it a few years ago. Until then, she used to ride there daily, loving the way the sea spray splashed across her cheeks. Surely Roger wouldn't object to her riding with his friend.

"Then all the more reason for you to join me."

"I would love to."

***

The early morning sun glistened on the water, reflected in every drop that happened to spray in the air as it dashed against the rocks. The beauty belied the danger and for the time being, Lucia could easily shrug away her brother's warning. There was nothing here that would harm her.

A brisk trot down the shore and Lucia positively glowed. She felt totally relaxed, so when Ashton suggested they walk the horses for a bit, she readily agreed.

Content to walk near him in the silence, it took a few moments for her to realize Ashton was doing more than walking, he was looking for something. She watched him for a few moments trying to discern exactly what he was searching for, but could not identify it.

Not until they turned the horses and started walking back did Ashton stop. Handing her the reins, he walked closer to the Cliffside and some of the undergrowth. Just as she decided she'd best go after him, he returned, brushing his hands against his legs.

"What are you looking for?" She finally asked, as she handed him the reins to his horse.

Taking them, he absently rubbed the animal's nose. "I am not really sure. Let's ride on a bit."

Knowing it unlikely she would get any more information from him, she agreed and led her horse near one of the rocks so she could mount. Ashton surprised her by following and holding her horse's head as she did so. She was not used to such niceties.

As they approached the path leading to the house Ashton stopped again, though this time he did not bother to dismount. Since the scenery was familiar to her she spent most of her time covertly watching him look about as if he were taking notes. His gray eyes appeared to harden, as if he did not particularly care for what he saw, yet as she looked about her everything looked the same as it ever had. She shivered, glad his gaze was not directed at her.

Apparently finished with his perusal, Ashton headed for the path to the stables.

***

"Where have you been, child?" From the foyer, Lucia could see her aunt speaking as she hurried her bulk down the stairs. From the distance, she could only imagine the words. Since they were directed at her often enough, she was fairly certain what they were; a guess that was confirmed when Aunt Amelia stood close. "Never mind, I see you have been riding," she said when she got close enough for Lucia to read her lips.

"Lady Raven graciously agreed to show me around," the earl said.

"I hope she had sense enough to stay away from the shore." She eyed the grains of sand on Lucia's boots. "Told her it was a nasty place.

Lucia glanced at the earl, wondering if he would answer or leave her to make the explanations.

"I'm afraid I insisted Lady Raven include a tour of the shore. Very interesting place, but I can understand your concern if she were to go there alone."

"Well, no harm done." She reached for Lucia's arm. "I'm sure, Ashton will excuse you to freshen up." She smiled at both of them before sending Lucia up the stairs and summoning Marie to assist her niece.

***

With the ladies occupied for the afternoon, Justin was free to explore the area below the house on his own. Walking down the side of what looked like a cliff proved much easier than he anticipated since the path was beaten smooth. By whom, he wondered, but decided to dwell on that later. Right now, getting down the slope, though easy enough for one in prime physical condition, still took considerable concentration.

Arriving at the bottom, he was not at all disappointed with his discovery. If he continued to follow the path, a little less obvious at this point but still a path, it led directly into the bushes, and from there it was only a stone's throw to what looked like a cave. If he was correct, perhaps Lucia did have something to worry about, for right off the Channel, it was the absolute perfect place for smuggling activity. The question of who was smuggling what would have to be determined later.

Certain no one was about, Justin inched his way carefully along the rock face until he was at the mouth of the cave. From there, he heard the faint sound of barking.

Immediately, he slipped into the blackness of the cave opening and listened intently for any signs of occupation. There were none, but the dog's barking grew louder and seemed to be accompanied by Squire Bethel's voice. Running his hand down the side of the cave, and cursing himself for not having the foresight to bring a lamp, Justin felt around for a candle or lantern someone may have left behind. He was in luck.

Even in the daylight the extra brightness from the lamp would attract extra attention. Using his body to shield the slight flame from any prying eyes, he lit the lamp then cautiously made his way toward the back of the cave. As far as he could make out, nothing seemed extraordinary, it appeared a regular cave, the back wall ended abruptly, not leading anywhere; nothing of any value appeared to be stored in the cave, or even stored in recent memory. Justin couldn't decide if he was relieved or disappointed. After Lucia expressed fears that Roger might be into smuggling, then seeing the cave and lay of the land this morning, Justin thought perhaps there was some truth to the story. Not that Roger would actually be into smuggling willingly. If Justin knew nothing else about Roger he knew him for an Englishman as intensely loyal as himself.

Once he was again near the cave entrance, he brushed himself off, making sure there were no signs of his exploration hanging on him, and blew out the candle, carefully replacing the items where he found them.

By the time Squire Bethel spied him, he was nearly at the path leading up to Raven's Peak.

"Find anything interesting, my lord?"

"Can't say I have. Don't know all this exercise is good for me, if you know what I mean." There were times the rumors circulating about his debauched behavior were really an advantage.

The squire chuckled as the earl leaned against a near by tree, the picture of exhaustion.

"The sea air will do that to you. Make you tired if you're not used to it."

"That's a fact." Justin looked the squire up and down. "Now, you seem a fellow quite used to the air. Lived around here all your life, I daresay."

"Hardly. I'm pretty new here myself. Well, new for these parts that is. Moved here maybe four years ago."

After Lucia had already lost her hearing. Justin looked down at the dog accompanying the squire as he started to sniff at his boots, then to whine. He immediately silenced when Bethel commanded it.

"Wonderfully trained dogs, Bethel. Noticed that earlier."

"Very intelligent, you know," the squire confided in him.

"Who does your training? Perhaps I'd be interested in having him look at my pack."

Squire Bethel's chest puffed out even more if that were possible. "Do it m'self, my lord."

Justin stepped away from the tree. "Don't suppose I could interest you in training mine, could I?"

"Oh, you never know, my lord. Could be a real challenge, there."

Justin raised one eyebrow daring the man to continue.

"I mean, I see how soft you are with your horse and even Lady Lucia."

"Soft?" Justin's voice dropped to slightly above a whisper.

The squire nodded. "Noticed that right off, my lord. You need a firm hand with simple creatures. A firm hand does the trick every time."

Justin nodded as if taking the man's words as gospel. "I'll keep that in mind, Bethel." Then he quickly turned and worked his way up the path, careful to walk slowly as if it were an effort. 'A firm hand with simple creatures,' indeed.

When he entered the house, the butler informed him Lady Lucia and Lady Bentworth were in the drawing room should he care to join them.

Justin looked down at his clothes ruefully, "You may tell them I will join them directly after I change."

Buttoning his shirt he swore to never again taking clothes that fit for granted. One day of wearing Roger's too tight coats was more than he could stand. If his clothes had not arrived he feared he was going to have to disgrace himself and show up at dinner in his shirtsleeves.

Hastily tucking his shirt tails in his buff colored trousers, and donning his waistcoat, he snatched his jacket, slipping his arms in the sleeves as he made his way to the drawing room. If one of Roger's servants saw him they would be horrified.

He paused before entering the room, looking about with interest. The room was done in varying shades of blue, almost giving the effect of being undersea. Although different and quite striking in appearance, Justin could not fail to observe the coloring was not particularly flattering to Lucia, who sat with her head bent over her needlework. He noticed the housekeeper as she finished her conversation with Aunt Amelia and was immediately struck by how well the room complimented her.

When Kate dropped a quick curtsey in front of him, after a moment's hesitation, he was taken aback at the defiant light in her eyes. He had done nothing to provoke it and wondered at its source.

"I hope I have not kept you ladies waiting," he said after entering the room.

"We're just having a coze, come join us." Aunt Amelia smiled at him and patted the settee next to her.

He quickly glanced at Lucia and saw her smile at him, apparently echoing her aunt's words. He started to walk towards her when Lady Amelia's words called him back.

"Did you have a nice walk about the grounds, my lord?"

Rather than turning to face her, he remained where he stood so Lucia would be able to see his face as he answered.

"Quite a pleasant stroll. I ran into the squire along the beach and exchanged a few words with him."

"Do you find that odd, my lord?" Lady Amelia asked.

"The squire seems quite comfortable on Raven property, and I wondered if that were always so."

"The squire does not come around so often when Roger is here, if that is what you mean. But, he would have no reason to then, would he?" She leaned out of the settee and focused her gaze on Lucia, who pointedly looked down at her needlework.

Justin had his own speculations as to what the reason could be when Lady Amelia told him otherwise.

"He is determined Lucia should marry him," she said. "The squire, not Roger, but Roger is her brother so she couldn't marry him now, could she?"

She smiled up at him and Justin found himself returning her smile though the news she delivered in her normal befuddled way rather surprised him. It was one thing for the squire to plan on marrying Lucia, but to find that her family thought it a good idea did not please him at all.

"The squire has told Roger often enough that he intends to marry Lucia."

The earl raised one well-formed eyebrow, and looked at Lucia bent over her sewing, oblivious to her aunt's comments.

"And what does Lucia say to that?"