Page 65 of Falling for the Warrior

It felt like someone had lifted a weight off Owen’s chest. If he couldn’t be with Selena, at least there would be someone else watching over her.

“Where are you off to today?” she asked.

“I’m going to the Army headquarters, see if I can round up any names of men from my unit. Try putting some pieces together. I’m not sure how long I’ll be.”

“Take your time. I’ll be waiting here.”

They finished their meal, then parted ways with a kiss. Owen hired a carriage. He wanted Selena to have their conveyance and coachman. There was nothing he wouldn’t do to see her safe. After last night, he would move heaven and earth to make sure nothing happened to his wife.

Owen hopped into the carriage and gave his destination. The Army headquarters were near Parliament and other government buildings around the Palace of Westminster. He entered the building and was directed to a clerk who took down his information. Owen explained his situation. The clerk said he would try to get some names for him and to come back in a week. After thanking the man, Owen left.

On the way down the steps, a gentleman waved to him. “Major Atherton.”

“I’m sorry, you must have me mistaken for someone else,” Owen said.

“I don’t think I would mistake a commanding officer. I’m Captain Gregory Fines. We served together in New Zealand.”

Then Owen recalled that his family name was Atherton. Anyone in the military would have addressed him by that name since his father and brother were alive at the time and held the title of Fernsby.

They shook hands. “Glad to meet you, Captain. But it’s not Atherton, I’m Earl Fernsby now.”

“Sorry, your lordship.” He bowed his head.

“Nothing to be sorry for, you didn’t know. Besides, I should apologize. You see, I don’t remember you. I had an injury in New Zealand and have amnesia.”

“I recall someone mentioning you were injured, but I didn’t realize how serious it was. How are you feeling, sir?”

“I’m well physically, but my memories are hazy. I was just inside inquiring about the whereabouts of any men in my unit, and here you are.”

“I would be happy to give any assistance. Perhaps I could call on you sometime and we could have a proper chat.”

“That would be excellent. My wife would be interested to hear what you have to say as well.” Owen gave Fines one of his calling cards, and they promised to get in touch in the next few days.

Things were looking up. It had been a good idea to come to London. God willing, they would find the answers he was seeking. Once in the carriage, he headed to the solicitor’s office. Mr. Perkins had sent word that he had the documents prepared for Owen to review. At least Selena would be taken care of, no matter what happened now.

The morning proceeded into the afternoon. Owen met Bran for lunch at a club. By the time Owen left to go home, the headache from the morning had intensified. He rubbed a hand over his temple. Too much excitement in one day, plus being up most of the night with Selena. But he would do it all over again.

He sauntered into the house. Rhoads informed him that Selena was entertaining a few women in the drawing room. Should he see her? Yes, he would. As he neared the door, Owen heard the busy chattering of several ladies.

Owen opened the door. Six women sat scattered in seats around the room. A large tea service was laid out on the table in the middle of the room. The voices quieted when, one after the other, the ladies noticed Owen’s presence. Selena’s back was toward him, but eventually she turned around and stood.

“Good afternoon, my lord. I did not expect you home so early.”

Of course, they had to show some propriety around the guests. “I concluded my business early, so I thought to return home. I did not mean to disturb you and your guests. Perhaps you would like me to leave? I’m sure I could find something to occupy my time.” He raised his brow, waiting for Selena to answer.

She could barely suppress her grin. “That will not be necessary, sir.”

Owen bowed. “Very well. I will retire to the library and leave you ladies to your gossip.” He smirked before closing the door behind him.

“I must say, Selena, he is a changed man,” one woman exclaimed.

“I wouldn’t believe it if I had not seen it myself. Was that a smile on Fernsby’s face?” another lady chuckled.

The others also voiced their astonishment at Owen’s behavior.

Owen went to the library to finish some work. They had been invited to dine at the Viscount of Tunsdale’s home that evening. Lady Tunsdale and Selena had struck an acquaintance years ago. Selena said there would be several military officials present since the viscount was friends with the secretary of foreign affairs.

The clock bonged six times. Surely Selena’s guests would be gone by now. They had to be at the viscount’s house at eight. Owen rang the servants’ bell.

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