Page 79 of Embracing the Earl (The St. Clairs 3)

Chapter Twenty-Five

Caroline went tothe stables behind the Merrick townhome, wanting to visit Davy and Tippet. She’d done so several times over the past few weeks and had seen how happy both the boy and dog were. The first person she saw was Brimley, the head groom, and she decided to ask him about Davy.

“Has Davy been fitting in well?”

The older man smiled broadly. “He has, my lady. I’ve never met a soul more eager to learn. He’s a natural with the horses, that boy is. They seem to perk up when Davy comes around. I’ll rue the day when you take him away. We’ll all miss young Davy.”

That made her rethink bringing the boy with her when she left London. He already had a job here he loved. Caroline had no idea what she would have him do out in the country. It might be best to leave him where he was and not force another change upon him. She excused herself and found Davy grooming a horse inside a stall. Tippet sat in the corner.

“Good morning, my lady. Isn’t it a fine day?”

“Spring in London is very nice,” she agreed. “How are you liking your work for the marquess?”

His eyes lit up. “I love horses. I can’t imagine doing anything else. I’m so grateful you took me away from the sea. I never liked it. My stomach stayed queasy on every voyage.”

She knew then that she couldn’t bring this boy with her, much as she’d wanted to.

“You know I’ve opened a bookstore. Have you thought about working there in the future?”

He shook his head as he ran the brush along the horse. “I’d rather stay here, my lady, with the horses. I’m sorry if that disappoints you.”

“It doesn’t. It’s important to find something you love and you’ve done so.” She paused. “I’m leaving London for a bit to live in the country. Would you mind if Tippet stays with you? I wouldn’t trust him to anyone’s care but yours. In fact, he should be yours. You’re the one who’s cared for him since we’ve been in England.”

Joy filled Davy’s face. “Truly? He can be mine? You don’t mind?”

“Not a bit. A dog needs a boy.” She smiled. “And a boy needs a dog.”

“Thank you, my lady. Tippet and me’ll be friends for life, I’m sure of it.”

“That’s good to know. I will try to stop by and see you the next time I’m in London.”

Davy grinned. “I’d like that.” He paused from the brushing and said, “You’ve been right good to me, my lady. Teaching me to read and getting me a place here with the horses. May... I hug you?”

“Of course.”

The boy came to her and Caroline wrapped her arms about him. She would miss Davy and Tippet but they had a new life and purpose, thanks to Evan’s generosity.

“Goodbye,” she said and went to find Brimley again.

“Mr. Brimley, I’d thought Davy might one day work for me in my bookstore but he seems happy where he is. Are you sure the marquess has room for him?”

“He does, my lady. Why, I can see Davy one day becoming head groom himself.”

That assured Caroline that she was making the right decision.

“I’m glad to hear that. I will leave him and Tippet to your care then. I suppose live horses are more interesting to a boy than musty, old books.”

She left and returned to her room, where the maid had already come and gone. She saw no need to take any of the ball gowns that Madame Toufours had made up for her. Instead, Caroline packed several day dresses, along with undergarments and a few night rails. She went downstairs and asked if Kent would have the small trunk in her chamber delivered to Evie’s.

“It’s some books that I want to have there in my office,” she told the butler.

She’d never been deceitful in her life but her lies were stacking up.

Next, Caroline took a cab to Mr. Higgins’ office. She knew the solicitor worked a half-day on Saturdays and wanted to catch him this morning. His surprise was obvious as she came through the door.

“Lady Caroline, what are you doing here? Have you changed your mind about the sale of your father’s townhouse?”

“No, but I do have need of you regarding another matter, Mr. Higgins.”

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