Tempted By a Rake (Wicked Widows’ League #21)

Chapter 18

Chapter Eighteen

“Lady Teviot, may I have a word before Mr. Valentine arrives?”

“Of course, Mrs. Trenton.”

“Will Mr. Valentine remain after we have gone?”

“It is likely. We have enjoyed our evening conversations.”

“If we are not here, then you would be alone with him and I cannot help but worry that His Grace may be unhappy if he were to learn.”

If Mrs. Trenton had any idea of what had already occurred in the parlor and what Lavinia hoped would happen later, she would be quite scandalized no doubt.

“He is a friend,” Lavinia offered. “In fact, Mr. Valentine is the family solicitor and the two of us have known each other for months. It was only by coincidence that we both ended up in Seaford for Christmas.”

“I just do not want your reputation risked with us not being in the house.”

“Oh, do not worry, Mrs. Trenton. As I said, we are friends, and who would know otherwise…unless you told anyone.”

“Oh, I never would,” she quickly promised. I respect you and your family very much, and I am aware of how blessed my family is to work for yours and in this home. I would never speak out of turn, nor would my husband or children.”

“I was truly not concerned that you would,” Lavinia assured her. “Enjoy your holiday and do not worry.”

“Thank you, Lady Teviot.” Mrs. Trenton curtseyed then turned for the door, only to turn again. “It is good to have you here”

Lavinia nearly told her that she might never leave, but as much as she wished for such, it would not be possible. Not until her sisters wed. Though, that did not mean she could not take up residence here when not attending the Season. In fact, the more she thought about it, the more likely that was exactly what she would do, with permission from Leopold of course, since he was the true owner of the property.

“I am glad to be here as well and have every intention of visiting more often.”

If Lavinia returned to London and he took up residence in Seaford permanently, Demetrius might see if he could hire Mrs. Trenton or one of her daughters to cook and clean when none of the members of the Tilsons were visiting the cottage.

Since he first dined with Lavinia, he had enjoyed some of the best meals he had eaten since he moved away from Vicar Grant’s home and was becoming rather spoiled.

“Would you care for a brandy?” Lavinia asked as she rose from her chair at the dining room table.

“I would like that very much,” he answered.

“Would you like tea in the parlor, Lady Teviot?” the housekeeper asked.

“No thank you, Mrs. Trenton. I know you are anxious to depart and I do not wish to delay you.”

“Thank you, Lady Teviot. I will alert you when we are ready to leave.”

“Would you like me to pour you a glass of brandy as well?” Demetrius asked as he crossed to the sideboard, or would you prefer wine?”

“Wine, please,” she answered as she settled onto the settee.

He filled her glass and then his own before taking them to her and settling in the chair across from her. As much as he wanted to be by her side, the servants were still within the house and he wanted all to appear proper.

“Will it bother you to be in the cottage alone for so many days?”

She arched a brow. “I can well take care of myself. If I find it becomes too much, I can always call on my neighbor.”

“He would be happy to keep you company.”

“Or, maybe I would just want to borrow his dog.”

Demetrius nearly choked on his brandy, which caused a burn in his nose.

If nothing else came from their association, Demetrius would always be glad that he had spent this holiday with Lavinia. She was not the same woman he once believed her to be. Or perhaps she had simply hidden that part away. Or maybe she had changed. He did not think he had, but perhaps he had as well.

One thing was for certain, his emotions had only grown stronger since she had arrived. “Yes, well, I am perfectly aware that Max prefers you to me.”

“I am certain you are wrong.” Lavinia chuckled.

“He does not bark or get anxious when I return home. When you step outside, he cannot wait to join you. I believe he is quite smitten.” As am I, which he did not voice out loud.

Lavinia took a sip of her wine then shivered.

“Are you cold?”

“Only slightly,” she answered. “Ever since the wind began to blow, I have noticed that it grows colder inside.”

He rose from his seat to add more wood to the fire.

“That is not necessary.”

“Would you rather I called a servant?”

“No. Do not bother them. They need to be on their way.”

And he wanted them out of the house.

After the fire was blazing, Demetrius stepped outside to bring in more wood and stacked it near so that there would be plenty for at least another day.

“Thank you,” Lavinia said after he took his seat once again.

“It was my pleasure.”

“Lady Teviot, we are going to be on our way, unless you need anything further,” Mrs. Trenton said as she stepped into the parlor.

“You just go on and enjoy your holiday,” Lavinia insisted.

It was then that the housekeeper looked at Demetrius with concern. Did she not approve of him. Or was it simply that the two of them would be alone and she already assumed his intentions?

“Keep watch please. I do not like leaving Lady Teviot alone.”

So, she wasn’t worried about him. “I promise that I will or His Grace would likely have my hide.”

“Thank you,” she murmured then took her leave.

He and Lavinia waited in silence as they listened for the three servants to gather their things, then the door close.

“Alone at last,” she whispered.