Page 106 of The Seaside Homecoming
The trio walked away.
“What was that about?” Claire whispered.
Viola lowered her voice as well. “Emily believes Miss Craven has set her sights on Lord Bertram and fears you may threaten that plan.”
“I don’t see how.”
“Did he truly travel all the way to Edinburgh to call on Aunt Mercer?”
“Yes, although I’m not sure why. He spoke briefly with me as well. Apologized for what happened but certainly did not renew his long-ago addresses. Miss Craven has nothing to fear from me. Now, come. The others are waiting. Let’s take our leave.”
When Claire returned to Broadbridge’s, she found Mr. Hammond in front of the fire in the morning room. Waiting up for her?
He rose when she entered. “I just made a fresh pot of tea, in case you should like some when you returned.”
“Thank you. I would.” She set aside her outdoor things and joined him in the morning room, sitting in a nearby chair.
He reclaimed his seat, poured for her, and asked, “How was the concert?”
Claire sipped, then answered, “The music was excellent.”
“And the company?”
“Of course I enjoyed spending time with my sisters and their husbands.”
“Was the concert well attended?”
“Yes. Quite a crush. Viola introduced me to a few of her friends, who seemed pleasant enough.”
He regarded her curiously. “But...?”
She looked over at him. “Hm?”
“I must say, for someone who just attended a concert, you seem ... well, disconcerted.”
She looked down, feeling self-conscious, the scene washing over her anew: the awkwardness of talking with friends of Lord Bertram’s, their appraising looks, prying questions, and cloying flattery.
“It’s nothing, really. I met a few people staying at Sea View. Apparently we have a mutual acquaintance.”
“From Scotland?”
Claire shook her head. “From England. They seemed to think I should be familiar with his plans, but I could tell them little. They were...”
“Rude?” he suggested.
“Not rude exactly, but I ... could not like them. I am glad they are not staying here.”
She set down her cup and rose. “Well, I am off to bed. Thank you again for the evening off and for the tea.”
Claire felt his gaze follow her in thoughtful silence as she left the room.
A few days later, Armaan came to the house again.
Claire greeted him warmly. “Good day, Mr. Sagar.”
“Armaan, please.”
“Very well. And you must call me Claire. Come in. I know Mira will be delighted to see you.”
