Page 3 of Debating with the Duke (Second Sons of London 2)

“Was he, too, murdered?” Lady Middlefield asked.

“He might as well have been. Lawford, who became Earl of Danbury two years ago, was stabbed and his head slammed into the ground. I visited him after I met with Mr. Scofield to see if I could learn anything further about the incident. Danbury has no recollection of that night—or much of anything—due to his head injury. He also has fought numerous infections. Looking at him was like viewing death itself,” Everett revealed. “And you know we have seen more than our share of that, Spence.”

Lady Middlefield’s eyes filled with sympathy. “You have seen much, Your Grace,” she said quietly. “As has Spencer. Please know you are among friends. You need never speak of the war or your brother’s death again.”

“Thank you,” Everett said, feeling a bond with this woman. “I have never been around women before, my lady. I had no sisters. My life was spent at school—and then war.”

She touched his sleeve. “My husband views you as his brother. I do the same. Would you consider calling me Tessa? Lady Middlefield sounds so formal and distant. I hope we will see you often.”

A feeling of peace descended upon Everett. “I was right to come here first. I have no family beyond my close circle of friends. Mr. Scofield dumped so much upon me that I couldn’t even think. I have been frightened to take up my ducal duties. In fact, I have yet to go to Cliffside. I came here, to Spence. To seek his guidance.”

Everett placed his hand atop hers. “I now see I will need yours, as well, Tessa. Please, help me begin. I have no idea where to start. I never thought to be a duke. I have no training in the ways of a titleholder.”

“Neither did I,” Spence said. “You know that. As second sons, we had fathers who ignored us. They thought the army would take care of us.” He gave Everett a wry smile. “Instead, we have inherited unexpectedly. I have learned a great deal since I returned to England last autumn and will share with you everything I know. Tessa can help you see that your house is organized and that you have efficient and effective servants.”

“I adore organizing a household,” Tessa said, her eyes sparkling. “Spencer and I would be happy to go with you now to Cliffside and help you get on your feet as far as your country estate goes.”

Everett chuckled. “You would earn my gratitude if you did so. Of course, besides my country seat, I have half a dozen other properties scattered about England, not counting the London townhouse.”

Tessa’s face filled with determination. “Then we will start at Cliffside and see that it is in order. We can leave tomorrow morning, can’t we, Spencer?”

“Of course.”

Tessa rose. “I will go consult with Callender and see that a room is prepared for you, Your Grace.”

“What? You can’t call a brother that,” he teased. “I am Ev. Or Everett.”

She looked pleased at his words. “You shall be Everett to me. Oh, how I look forward to having a brother. My two cousins, Adalyn and Louisa, are like sisters to me and my closest friends. Spencer now looks upon them as his sisters. You will have to meet them.”

A slow smile spread across her face and she said, “Please excuse me. I’ll also let Cook know we have a guest for dinner and I’ll tell Abra and Rigsby to pack for us.”

After she left, Spence started laughing.

“What is so funny?” Everett asked.

“Did you not see that smile my beautiful wife gave you before she left?”

“Yes. What of it?”

Spence chuckled. “She is planning something. Not only will she make certain your households are in good order, but I have the feeling my darling girl has something else in store for you.”

“What?” he asked, clueless.

“I suspect Tessa has in mind to find you a wife, Ev.”

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