Page 77 of The Moonstone Governess
Since Jax seemed to be occupying Matthew, Daire took the opportunity to slip away to look in on Juliana. Brenna knew he was concerned about his mother. She felt the same. Perhaps they were both overreacting, but Brenna sensed this lovely woman was not suffering merely from a megrim.
Daire returned a few minutes later, settling in the chair beside Brenna’s but ever careful not to get too close to Matthew and upset the boy.
“How is she?” Brenna asked.
“Same. Claims she is feeling much better. I don’t think she is.”
Brenna nibbled her lip. “Then is it time to summon Dr. Hewitt?”
“I left instruction for her lady’s maid to report to you immediately if she takes a turn for the worse. If she passes a peaceful night, I’ll look in on her tomorrow morning and decide what to do then. The doctor will be summoned if she shows no improvement.” He looked around. “Your uncle and his crew are packing up for the day.”
Jax reached out and took Felicity’s hand. “If you wish to stay longer, Daire and I can escort you home later.”
She shook her head and rose. “No, I’ll see you all tomorrow. I enjoy the work immensely, but it is physically strenuous and tires me out.”
Jax rose along with her. “I’ll ride up early tomorrow to help you.”
“All right.” Felicity cast him a soft smile.
Daire stared at his friend, but said nothing.
Brenna wondered what Daire was thinking. What wereboththese men thinking?
Matthew had now finished his stew, so Brenna bade both men a good evening and went upstairs with the boy to ready him for bed. It was early yet, but he needed to wash up and play with his soldiers, and then Brenna was going to read to him.
She peered from the nursery window an hour later and saw the two men striding down the lane toward Moonstone Landing. The house suddenly fell quiet, even though there was a full staff.
Later that night, shortly before retiring to bed herself, Brenna sought out Duchess Juliana’s lady’s maid. “Oh, Miss Brenna. I don’t know. She has slept all day and not eaten a thing. She could barely hold down her tea. I added honey to it to thicken it a little. She ate none of Cook’s stew.”
The stew had been delicious, which added to Brenna’s concern. Perhaps Daire ought to have called for the doctor.
When she mentioned it to Juliana’s maid, the girl shook her head. “No, Miss Brenna. Give it until tomorrow. She’s had these episodes before. A little more frequently lately, but I’m hoping the fresh country air will clear out her lungs and have her feeling better in no time.”
*
To Brenna’s relief,Daire’s mother did appear much better the following day. She came down in time to join her and Matthew for breakfast on the terrace, and seemed quite comfortable as she watched Brenna and Matthew toss around a ball on the grass afterward.
Daire arrived by late morning and went straight over to Juliana. “How are you doing, darling?” He gave her a light kiss on the forehead.
“I am in the pink, my boy. Do take Matthew and Brenna on your outing. He will never tell you, but he is excited to learn how to fly a kite. Cook prepared a picnic basket for you. Daire, why are you still frowning at me?”
“I am concerned for you.”
“Well, don’t be. You must stop frowning. I’ll have Betty bring out my embroidery, and Jax and Felicity will keep me company should it become necessary while you are off on your adventure.”
“All right. But you must tell Jax at once if you do not feel well. Will you promise me?”
Juliana nodded. “I will.”
Brenna had been listening in on the exchange and now took Matthew’s hand to walk over to Daire.
He cast her a soft smile. “Ready to fly kites?”
She nodded.
Matthew surprised them by addressing Daire directly. “I’m ready, too.”
Daire let out a soft breath. “I’m glad, Matthew. We will have fun.”
