Page 33 of Rakes & Reticules
Why that knowledge vexed, Siobhan did not understand.
“We’ll see to the rest, Sally.” Fletcher flashed one of his stammer-causing smiles, and the girl blushed.
For pity’s sake.
Siobhan nearly rolled her eyes.
He was as transparent as glass. For a man who insisted on scrupulous behavior in his clubs, the hypocrite had no compunction about using his charm to manipulate willy-nilly.
If he snapped his fingers, did every female jump to do his bidding?
Siobhan would not be impressed that he knew the maid’s name. Something only a caring employer would make an effort to know.
“Yes, sir.” Once she’d done as bid and given Siobhan a curiosity-filled glance from beneath her lashes, Sally bobbed a curtsy and departed.
“Come, Siobhan.” Fletcher gestured to the table. “Have a seat, and while we dine, I’ll explain what I intend.”
The tiniest morsel of hope that he wouldn’t dismiss her forthright motivated Siobhan to cross the carpet and sit. That and she was so hungry, her stomach gnawed her spin. “I’m so famished, my belly thinks my throat has been cut.”
Fletcher threw back his head, exposing the strong column of his throat, and laughed heartily.
Transfixed, Siobhan stared as if bewitched.
Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, the man was a feast for feminine eyes when he laughed, which he did often, given the fine lines framing his eyes. In point of fact, Fletcher Westbrook was quite easy to gaze upon at any time, but he seemed oblivious to his good looks.
After composing himself but still chuckling now and again, Fletcher lifted the first silver dome, and her mouth watered.
Roasted chicken with peas, carrots, and potatoes.
Another contained creamed asparagus. A third held steaming rolls. And the last displayed thick slices of custard pie. A bottle of wine, glasses, plates, napkins, and eating utensils completed the sumptuous spread.
What appeared to be genuine kindness crinkled the corners of his arresting eyes as he skillfully uncorked the wine bottle. Siobhan had seen green eyes often in Ireland but not Fletcher’s clear-bottle green shade. It took a person’s breath away.
Surely, she wasn’t the only one to react so strongly to his potent, verdant gaze.
“I thought you might be hungry, given you haven’t eaten much all week.” He poured a generous portion of crimson wine into each glass.
“Ravenous.” Siobhan couldn’t prevent her grin as she seized a roll and veered her attention to the bed.
Despite herself, her attention kept drifting to the neatly tied parcels littering her bed.
She’d heard tales of English Christmas and birthday celebrations where children received stacks of gifts. She’d only ever received one small object for either. Perhaps a hair ribbon, bar of perfumed soap, or hand-knitted scarf.
“What is in the packages?” Siobhan could have bitten her tongue in two for speaking her thoughts aloud. Mortification’s flames licked her cheeks as she forced herself to focus on the food before her.
“Gowns. Underthings. Shoes. Hairpins. Reticules. A brush. Soap.” Shrugging, Fletcher snapped his napkin open and placed it on his long legs. “Whatever else a lady might need for her toilet. I had the hostesses help with the shopping, so I’m not entirely certain what is there. I tasked Miss Rudgate with acquiring the essentials.”
Elora Rudgate, the serving and social staff supervisor’s extraordinary organizational skills, made up for her prudish comportment. Siobhan didn’t question that the packages contained every last item a young woman would require.
She sat back, the roll dangling from her fingertips.
“Just whatisthis plan of yours, Fletcher Westbrook?”
She expected to sleuth around darkened nooks. She’d have no need for new clothing for that.
Fletcher cut a generous slice of chicken and deposited it on her plate before adding a liberal portion of vegetables.
“You and your siblings are going to help me catch the Huxleys red-handed.” He glanced upward, catching her gaze with his. “If we succeed, I’ll overlook your indiscretion and not only provide you with a position but allow you and your brother and sister to live atDe la Chance.”
