Page 62 of The Duke and the Runaway Bride

“We all know Beatrice went to the countryside, and everyone was told she was sick. The fact that she lay with someone else and carried their child is a complete fabrication. Of course, her new moniker is unfortunate but also falls under truth. She was promised to someone, and she ran away before the wedding.”

“Yes, and if she had not, we would not be in this mess,” Phineas said, trying to regain control after being scolded. “If she did as she was told, we would have all been better off.”

“If she did as she was told, she would not be the person she is now, and we are all better off for that,” Edwin countered.

He felt Beatrice’s hand on his leg.

“Who are we talking about?” Modesty asked.

“Mother,” Elizabeth interjected, “I showed you the scandal sheets. We are talking about Beatrice.”

“Oh, yes. So, is she pregnant?” Modesty asked.

“Mother, just let the men talk and sort this out.”

“We would make fine uncles,” Stephen chimed in from the doorway.

Beatrice shot her brother a disapproving glance.

“Out!” Phineas commanded.

“I know people who run the newspapers, and while I don’t know the people who publish the rags, the people I know must know them,” Edwin explained. “I already had a word with them, and any more gossip that comes in will not be published. That is the first step in sorting out this mess. I also have two people looking into the matter. An ex-constable and a private investigator. Someone obviously has it in for Beatrice, and the sooner we find the person, the better. I have a feeling I know who it might be, but until I have evidence, I shall not make any accusations. Once I have the name of the culprit, I will force them to make a public apology, and Beatrice’s name will be cleared.”

Silence fell over the table. Everyone except for Phineas looked down at their fish and took a forkful. It felt like the right thing to do, as the silence became awkward.

“If we had evidence against the claims, we could do more,” Phineas stated. “But how do you prove someone did not have a child? Do you turn up with no child?”

“It is frustrating, but there is little we can do except wait,” Edwin admitted.

“Do I have your word you will fix this?” Phineas asked.

“You do,” Edwin replied.

It did not take long for the fish course to be over, and the plates were quickly cleared away as everyone at the table contemplated the situation.

Raspberry cordial was brought out for the ladies and the twins, who were allowed back into the room, and the gentlemen enjoyed a glass of brandy each before the main course was served.

“Well, I think it is just wonderful!” Modesty announced.

Several pairs of eyes landed on her.

“My son and his beautiful wife are out there fighting against the world, and it stirs my heart.” Her hand trembled as she brought it to her chest. “This night is magical! Yes, magical! Our two families have come together to solve this problem, and we will work it out. And there is so much love in the room.” She started to cry. “I remember when I fell in love with my husband. He was such a good man, and I see so much of him in Edwin.” She quickly wiped her tears with a handkerchief. “And now, Edwin is in love, and that love will conquer everything. I just think it is the most wonderful thing in the world.”

The mood shifted from pensive to stunned as everyone looked first at Modesty and then around the table. The only person Edwin could not look at just yet was Beatrice. He might have some feelings for her after what they had been through together, but he was not in love. Love was a weakness he could not afford.

“I remember when I fell in love with my husband,” Letitia said to Modesty. “We had an arranged marriage, don’t you know. I was terrified when I first met him, and the second time, and the third.” She laughed. “Then I got to know the wonderful man that he is, and now I love him to pieces. Even if he can’t eat without making a mess.”

Phineas took his wife’s hand. “I love you too, my dear.”

“Elizabeth and I have decided we will find love this Season,” Hannah announced. “We will both find good men, fall in love, and marry them.”

Hannah and Elizabeth folded their arms as if to prove their point.

“I love my bother, and my brother loves me,” Stephen sang.

“My brother loves me, and I love my brother,” Nathanial sang back.

“That deserves a toast, does it not?” Stephen asked. “More wine!”

---