Page 40 of Indecent
“No, I could not.” To do so would have thoroughly ruined Prudence and any chance she had at living a comfortable life in her current position.
They walked together to the men’s side, and Ada left her to knock on Lucien’s door alone. First, they hugged again and promised to return to their ritual this coming Saturday.
Prudence rapped on the door and immediately heard Lucien’s response. Taking a deep breath, she walked into his office and set her case down just inside the door.
He blinked at her. “Prudence?”
“Yes, and before you ask, there is no husband. I behaved quite foolishly and am only glad I came to my senses. I would have returned sooner, but the weather kept me from traveling.”
Lucien jumped up from his chair. Tall and lithe, he came toward her, his long strides delivering him before her in a trice. “Are you all right?”
“Completely. I am concerned, however, as to whether I am still employable.” Her shoulder twitched. “I’ve already seen Ada, and she said your sister married Lord Wexford.”
“She did. Our father even approved of the match. I daresay that’s what caused that horrible storm.” His dark eyes glinted with amusement. “The heavens simply couldn’t countenance such a change in the duke’s opinion.”
Prudence laughed. Lucien and his father shared a rather tumultuous relationship. The Duke of Evesham was incredibly fond of his eldest child, the Earl of Aldington, and possessed a soft spot for his youngest, Cassandra. His middle child, however, seemed to confound him, though Prudence couldn’t understand why. Lucien was brave, having fought in Portugal, successful with the Phoenix Club, and above all, kind and generous.
“As it happens, there is a perfect position for you. But we should move quickly since everyone assumed you would no longer be working as a companion.”
Because she’d eloped. Bennet really had caused her a great deal of trouble. He’d also given her wonderful memories she’d cherish her entire life. It seemed a fair trade.
“I will most definitely be working as a companion. What is this position?”
“Companion to Cassandra’s new sister-in-law, Miss Kathleen Shaughnessy. It won’t be what you’re used to—fewer balls and the like—but it’s with people you already know and who know you.”
People who wouldn’t be bothered by her disappearing for six days. This was more than she could have hoped for. “Do I need to rush right over there?”
“Not rush, no. I probably didn’t need to say we should act quickly. I only meant that if you were interested in the position, you should let them know as soon as possible because I am certain they’d hire you.”
“Thank you.” She gave him a warm smile. “You’ve saved me yet again.”
He snorted. “I have no doubt you could have found your own position with references from Lady Overton and my sister. But you have to agree this is simpler.”
“Indeed.” Besides, she was particularly happy to work with people she knew. She’d been lucky enough to move from Fiona to Cassandra, whom she’d come to know while she’d been companion to Fiona. She’d met Miss Shaughnessy, and Lucien was right that this would be different. Wexford’s younger half sister had no interest in marriage or participating in the Season. “I take it Mrs. Shaughnessy agreed to let her daughter remain in London with Lord Wexford?”
“Wex talked her into it, apparently. Mrs. Shaughnessy and the other sister are returning to Gloucestershire, if they haven’t left already. Shall I drive you to George Street to see Cass and Wex?”
“I don’t wish to impose since they are so newly married.”
“They’ve already been imposed upon—his mother and sisters have been there the entire time. I do think Wex and Cass plan to take a trip to Bath or something. I know Cass will be thrilled to see you. She was rather perplexed by your abrupt elopement.” He cocked his head. “We all were, but then I’ve always found you to be enigmatic. If anyone were to have a secret lover, it would likely be you.”
Prudence nearly choked. “He wasn’t my lover. Just a mistake.” Was that how she thought of Bennet? Of course not. Abducting her had been a mistake, but something good had come from it.
Lucien gave her a sympathetic nod. “I’m glad to hear you were able to avoid it and emerge unscathed, but then you’re one of the most resilient people I’ve ever met.”
“And enigmatic,” she said with a faint smile.
“Yes!” He laughed. “I’m still not sure what brought you to the Viscount Warfield’s house in search of employment, but I am glad I happened to be there the very same day.”
“As am I.” If not for that chance meeting, Prudence would not be where she was today. “I’m ready to leave whenever you are.”
He moved to pick up her case, then paused, pinning her with a serious stare. “I hope you know that I will always help you, no matter the issue. And you know I’ll keep it between us. If there’s anything you need with regard to this…elopement, I hope you’ll ask.”
She expected nothing less from him. “I will, thank you. It’s more than enough that you’re looking out for my welfare. Truly. If only everyone knew what a kind heart you possess.”
Laughing, he swept up her case. “What would happen to my roguish reputation?”
“I think you can be kindanda rogue.” She would categorize Bennet in such a way. Perhaps he was more scoundrel than rogue. Whatever he was, she’d do best to cast him from her mind. She needed to move forward.
