Page 84 of When He Was a Duke
“The constable won’t rest until he’s found.”
“I know. And when he is, I’ll finally have peace.”
“May I speak plainly, Mr. Hale, as you have done to me?”
“Please.”
“There’s a certain housekeeper who looks at you with a glimmer in her eyes. Have you noticed?”
He looked genuinely shocked. “Mrs. Blythe? Are you certain?”
“It’s mere conjecture on my part but I’ve known her a long time. I’m fairly certain.”
“I see.” He tugged on his ear, gazing behind her for a moment. “She is a fine person. We’ve been close friends for years. I don’t know why I’ve never considered it.”
“Perhaps it’s time?”
“Perhaps. And what of you and Sebastian? What do you plan to do?”
Rose drew in a deep breath, decision crystallizing in her mind. “I’m going to Brighton to see him. I must tell him how I feel.”
Hale studied her face, then nodded slowly. “Shall I have them prepare a carriage for tomorrow morning?”
“Yes.” Her voice wavered slightly. “I want him to come home tome. For good.”
“I’ll see to the arrangements. But I insist on accompanying you. A woman traveling alone isn’t safe, especially with your father’s associates still at large.”
Rose felt a surge of gratitude for this steady, loyal man. “Thank you. We’ll leave at first light.”
“And Lady Rose?” Hale’s eyes twinkled. “I have a feeling this story will have a much happier ending than either of you expects.”
Chapter Nineteen
Sebastian guided Tempestthrough Brighton’s narrow streets as afternoon shadows lengthened across the cobblestones. The familiar sounds and smells of the port city—shouting fishermen, creaking cart wheels, the tang of salt and fish—brought a bittersweet comfort. He’d come to tell James everything that had transpired, to share the miraculous news that their father’s name could finally be cleared.
But more than that, he needed his brother to understand what had happened to his heart.
He dismounted outside the Stag & Anchor, his legs unsteady after the long ride. The tavern looked exactly as it had when he left, with its weathered timbers, patched roof, the painted sign swaying in the sea breeze. Through the grimy windows, he could see the familiar dim interior, a few patrons hunched over their ale.
Sebastian pushed through the heavy door, and the conversations faltered as heads turned his way. He’d forgotten for a moment that he was still dressed in the attire from the ball. The fine coat and clean boots marked him as someone who didn’t belong in this rough establishment. If they only knew what he’d been through since the last time he’d stepped inside his brother’s tavern.
“Brother, is it really you?” James’s voice carried across the room, rich with disbelief.
James stood behind the bar, sleeves rolled up, a rag in his hands.He tossed the rag aside and came around the bar in quick strides.
“Sebastian.” James gripped his shoulders, searching his face. “You look fine, although tired. What are you doing here? Have you brought good news?”
“I’ve brought the best news.” Sebastian’s voice was rougher than he’d expected. “It’s good to see you. I’ve missed you.”
James pulled him into a fierce embrace, and Sebastian felt some of the tension leave his shoulders. Whatever else happened, he had his family, his brother and sister who’d stood by him through everything.
“Come with me.” James stepped back. “Let’s go upstairs where we can talk properly. You look like you have quite a story to tell.”
James led him through a narrow door behind the bar and up creaking stairs to the small apartment above. The main room was sparse but clean: a table, two chairs, a narrow bed, and a few books on sagging shelves.
“Please sit.” James gestured to one of the chairs before moving to a small cabinet. “You look like you need a drink, and I suspect I will too after whatever you’re about to tell me.”
“It’s been an extraordinary few weeks.”
