Page 86 of If Not for the Duke

“No, it won’t.” Ludham’s fierce expression had her taking a step back. “Clarke will simply find a new endeavor and another wealthy person to finance it. I want him ruined.”

“I can’t help you.”

“Then I’ll find someone who can.” Ludham spun on his heel and strode out of the ballroom.

Lena’s thoughts whirled as she watched him depart. While she appreciated that he seemed to have the same goal as she and her family did, the viscount’s determination was a threat not to be taken lightly.

*

Sterling looked upfrom his breakfast to see Bernie striding into the room wearing a riding habit and a bright smile.

“Good morning,” she said.

“You seem to be in fine spirits this morning.” He set down the newssheet. When she’d told him she didn’t feel well enough to attend the ball the previous evening, he’d been worried.

“Indeed, I am. Nothing like a good night’s rest to restore a person. Now I’m looking forward to a ride.”

He pushed back from his chair. “I’ll go with you.” Never mind that he had already been on one earlier.

“Nonsense.” She waved a hand in dismissal. “I’m sure you’ve already gone, and I don’t want to interrupt your breakfast. I want some fresh air and don’t plan to be gone long.”

“Are you certain? I’m happy to join you.”

She kissed the cheek he offered. “You are a dear. But it’s not necessary. The groom is accompanying me. I will see you soon.”

He watched her depart, relieved to see her acting more herself. He knew the situation with the treasure hunt on Oak Island was wearing on her as it was him. He was done with Clarke and his lack of truthfulness. When Bernie returned, he would speak to her about shutting down the treasure hunt and relieving Clarke of his duties. The man obviously had his own agenda, and Sterling wanted no part of it.

He returned to his breakfast and his newssheet for a time and was just preparing to see to the correspondence awaiting him in his study when he heard voices in the corridor.

Foster appeared at the doorway. “I’m sorry to disturb you, Your Grace, but Miss Wright is calling and asks for a moment of your time.”

Surprise caught Sterling as it was well before calling hours. Did this mean she had news on Ludham or Winslow? “Show her to my study.”

Foster bowed and departed, and Sterling went to his study, anxious to hear what Lena had to say.

The butler announced her, and her maid remained at the door as Lena entered, her expression somber.

“Forgive me for calling so early, but I spoke with Viscount Ludham last evening and wanted to share what he said.”

Though Sterling was eager to know what she’d learned, he took a moment to draw in Lena’s presence. Once again, he had missed her. Today, she wore a simple blue muslin gown that made her eyes all the more stunning.

However, the worry in their depths had him gesturing toward one of the chairs before his desk. She remained standing as if too restless to sit.

“How is Bernie?” she asked. “She sent me a message telling me she didn’t feel up to attending the ball last evening.”

He nearly smiled at her consideration. It came as no surprise that she, too, was worried about Bernie. Her worry for his sister touched him. Especially when he knew that it had nothing to do with him, but because she liked Bernie as a friend.

“She is feeling much better. Well enough that she left to go for a ride not a quarter of an hour ago.”

“Oh, good.” She nodded, but the news didn’t remove the crinkle of her brow. “As I was saying, I danced with Viscount Ludham last evening.”

Sterling didn’t care for the jealousy that had him clenching his jaw at the thought of the two dancing. He would have preferred to be Lena’s only dance partner. That showed just how much he’d come to love her.

“The viscount said he’s not truly helping Winslow. Instead, he wants to see Clarke fail.”

Sterling frowned, shaking his head. “That doesn’t make any sense.”

“Clarke took an opportunity from him several years ago, and he has never forgiven him for it. He intends to make certain Clarke’s career is ended and wanted to know how I knew Clarke was digging in the wrong place.”

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