Mia’s cat.
He’d seen it in the stables on his first visit. It had a pretty coat but was missing its right eye. The tabby wound through his legs several times before he leaned down and lifted it.
“You got left behind, I see. I’ll bet you’re missing your mistress.”
The cat blinked.
“I think you also need to abandon this sinking ship, my friend. You won’t be wanted here. As it is, it already looks as if you’ve been kicked from the house.”
He went to the carriage and told his driver they would leave for London as soon as their passenger arrived.
“Where to, Mr. St. Clair?” the driver asked.
“Back to Lord Trentham’s,” he ordered.
As Hudson opened the vehicle’s door, balancing the cat in one arm, George came out and beamed.
“You’ve got Nelson. Lady Mia will be so pleased.”
“Nelson?”
“After Admiral Nelson. He also lost his right eye in battle. Lady Mia thought it an appropriate name.” The servant paused. “Thank you again, Mr. St. Clair. I’ll ride with your driver.”
George handed a small valise up and then climbed up beside the driver. Hudson and Nelson entered the vehicle. As they made their way toward London, Nelson curled up in Hudson’s lap, warming it. Absently, he stroked the cat.
As he plotted ways to avenge Lady Mia and bring down the Morrisons.