Page 42 of Embracing the Earl (The St. Clairs 3)

The cooks thanked her and she told Luke what task she’d assigned him.

“I want to contribute something,” Evan said. “After all, I’m also an investor.”

Caroline thought a moment. “You told me that Rachel was in charge of the renovation of your townhome. Why don’t you go with her to the site tomorrow and explain my vision of the place? You know where I wish to put shelving and furniture, as well as where the door needs to be cut and a few walls knocked down.”

“I can do that,” Evan agreed, smiling at his wife.

“You’d allow me such a huge role?” Rachel asked.

“Of course. I trust you. And I only have so much time and quite a bit left to do.”

“When do wish to open?” Evan asked.

“My goal is three weeks from now. A month at the latest. That’s a couple of weeks into the Season. By then, I will have attended a few events, which will help me build my inventory.”

“Remember, I want military histories,” Evan said. “And Leah wants romances.”

“I want books on architecture and gardening,” Rachel reminded.

“I will try to please patrons with a wide variety of tastes,” Caroline promised. She paused and then said, “Before everyone leaves, I have something else to share with you.”

“Good news?” Catherine asked. “I know you signed the contracts this morning on the property.”

“This is in regard to another property.” She swallowed. “My father’s house.”

Rachel reached over and patted her hand. “I know the auction was held. Remember, you may stay with Evan and me as long as you wish.”

“Actually, I have a place to stay now.”

“Did you rent rooms?” Leah asked.

“No. I’ll be staying in my father’s house.”

“What?” all three women cried.

Quickly, Caroline explained how some generous benefactor had purchased the home and contents and deeded everything her.

“And you have no idea who did this?” Alex asked.

“None whatsoever,” she admitted. “I wish I could thank the person that did so. I only plan to use a few of the rooms. A bedchamber. A parlor. The kitchen. I’m too busy with getting Evie’s up and running but as soon as I have time, I’ll hire a maid and cook that can come in a few times a week.”

“It’s a large place for you to be all alone,” Catherine said. “Are you sure you want to live there by yourself?”

“In time. And you’re right. It is quite large for me, Davy, and Tippet. I don’t believe Evie’s will make a profit for a good year or more. If it looks as if it will be longer than that, I want to make sure my investors receive their return and a profit. In that case, I’ll sell the house and use the proceeds to keep the bookstore operating.”

“What of any furniture within the place?” Luke asked. “If you’re only going to use a handful of rooms, perhaps instead of purchasing new furniture for Evie’s lounging and reading areas, you could use what you already have. That way you’ll only need to order small tables and chairs for the tearoom.”

Caroline nodded her approval. “An excellent idea. It would save money and time.”

“Why don’t we go look at it now?” Luke suggested.

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