Page 30 of Beth: A Regency Romance Novell

Straightening, Marcus’ warm brown eyes smiled into hers. “What have you there?”

“A bird has hurt its wing. It will have to be braced and allowed to heal.”

“Might I help you?”

“I could use another pair of hands.” She was pleased that she sounded so calm, so unaffected when her emotions were tumultuous.

He walked with her along the drive toward the stables.

“When you left London, I was worried that you might be unwell.”

“I am quite well, thank you. Have you come to see Andrew? I believe he’s in the library. Or have you already seen him?”

He laughed. “No, to your first question, and yes to the second. I wish to speak to you, Beth.”

“Oh?” Beth’s heart leapt.

“But first, I must tell you of Andrew’s news. He has received word from the magistrate. Sir Lionel Carr writes of what he has learned from Ramsey’s doctor.”

They continued to walk along the drive to the stables. “Was it enlightening?”

“I believe so. It is not well known, but Ramsey’s mother died in an asylum. According to the doctor, insanity has blighted every generation. But only the female family members suffered from it.”

“Then Ramsey did not?”

“He believed he did and could not be convinced otherwise.”

“Oh, then that explains his behavior,” Beth said thoughtfully. “I doubt an insane person could carry out such a clever plan.”

“His behavior was hardly what one might call sound and reasonable.”

“I think he wanted Andrew or you to kill him,” Beth said quietly.

“Yes, I believe you’re right,” Marcus said heavily.

Beth led him to the small shed at the rear of the stables where she worked with animals.

Marcus opened the door for her.

In his cage, the badger with a damaged foot, darted about in excitement.

He showed no signs of discomfort. She would release him tomorrow.

“I was told you rescue animals and now I can see it for myself,” Marcus said as she placed the bird into a large box lined with a soft cloth. After a feeble flutter, the bird lay still watching them with a beady eye.

“Yes. I want to learn more, but women can’t go to university, so I read all the books on animal husbandry I can find.” She smiled while trying to order her breathing. Marcus seemed so large and male in the small space. And so dear to her. “I fear I annoy the local veterinarian with my endless questions.”

“Beth,” Marcus said softly. “I’d like very much to aid you in these endeavors.”

“That might be difficult, Marcus. But I do appreciate the offer.” She turned back to the table searching for a suitable brace. Finding one small enough, she began to apply it.

Marcus handed her the scissors, and she carefully cut the string. He was going to ask her to marry him. It would be so very hard to say no. After his post in Greece ended what then? Where would they send him?

“That should be all right,” she said surveying her work. She stroked the bird’s feathery head, and it settled down and closed it eyes.

Marcus took her arm and drew her around to him. His eyes searched hers. “I love you, Beth. I think I fell in love with you the first time we danced.”

“We’ve only danced once,” she said aware how inane that sounded.

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