Page 13 of Suddenly a (The St. Clairs 5)

“Write your notes,” he said briskly. “I’ll see if I can help Lord Morrison’s valet.”

With that, St. Clair rose and left the study.

Though still unsettled, Mia withdrew paper from the desk drawer and opened a jar of ink. She briefly explained to the Trenthams that her father had passed away suddenly, not going into any detail. Aunt Fanny wouldn’t care and probably be glad she and Uncle Trentham wouldn’t have to pay for physicians and servants to care for Papa. As for Cousin Horatio, he hadn’t been to visit her and Papa in years and years. All he awaited was news that he’d finally gained the title he’d always wanted. He would be surprised, though, to see how Morris Park had fallen into disrepair and that it had no funds in which to restore it to is former glory. Hopefully, the new viscountess’ ample dowry would be able to pay for improvements and make the place more livable.

Mia sealed both letters and left the study, heading upstairs to her father’s bedchamber. She met Mr. St. Clair in the corridor.

Handing him her letters, she said, “I placed the addresses below each name so you know where they reside. When your solicitor is ready, he can call on me at Lord and Lady Trentham’s townhouse.”

“Trentham? Isn’t he associated with the diplomatic corps?”

“Yes. Uncle Trentham and Aunt Fanny recently returned from his last post abroad. She tells me he will be working in the London office for now. They have been gone for a decade and are ready to be home. At least, for now.”

He slipped the letters inside his coat pocket. “I will see these delivered today. Look for my wagons tomorrow.”

“I can’t thank you enough, Mr. St. Clair,” Mia said with sincerity. “You are an answer to a very difficult problem.”

He chuckled. “Some people might view me as a problem, my lady. In this case, I am happy to be of service and eager to see what you can build beyond your steam engine.” He paused and took her hand. “I also give you my sincere condolences regarding the loss of your father. Lord Morrison may not have had all of his faculties these past few years but he raised a remarkable daughter. You—and what you do with the rest of your life—will be a tribute to him and his belief in you.”

Tears filled her eyes. “Thank you, Mr. St. Clair.”

“I’m off then,” he said briskly, releasing her hand.

For some odd reason, the lack of contact left her feeling bereft.

“Goodbye, Mr. St. Clair. I wish you a pleasant journey.”

She watched him descend the stairs and then turned, steeling herself. Papa needed her now, for the last time. Mia entered his bedchamber, knowing with his death that a chapter in her life had come to an end. A new one was ahead. One filled with the unknown.

Thanks to Mr. St. Clair’s generosity and their new business arrangement, however, almost anything was possible.

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