Page 80 of If Not for the Duke

Lena hoped Marbury was right. At any rate, something had to be done about Clarke before he ruined everything that she and her sisters had worked so hard to do to honor and protect their father’s memory.

*

Two days later,Lena searched Hyde Park for Bernie. Bernie had invited her for an early morning ride so they could avoid the crowds that filled the park later in the day. After having nearly lost Bernie’s friendship, Lena realized just how much it meant to her. Finding time for them to do something together was more important than ever.

After Bernie learned about the information Lena and her family had sent the reporter atThe Times, would she change her mind about wanting to be friends?

Lena dearly wanted to tell her, but Marbury suggested she wait. He intended to speak with Sterling today. Then Sterling could share what he wanted with his sister.

If Bernie didn’t join her this morning, Lena supposed that would be a sign the lady knew what was happening and didn’t appreciate it.

Lena hoped that wouldn’t be the case. She glanced behind her, noting her groom directly behind her, but there was still no sign of Bernie.

She hadn’t ridden far when the sound of hooves galloping toward her had her turning expectantly, only to see Viscount Ludham approaching on the black stallion she’d seen him ride before.

“Good morning, Miss Wright.” His overly bright smile made her uneasy.

“Viscount Ludham.” Lena couldn’t help but glance back at her groom to make certain he remained nearby.

“I hope the day finds you well.” Ludham guided his horse to walk beside hers, not bothering to ask if he could join her.

“Indeed, it does.” She had never liked the man. He’d pursued both of her sisters and herself without them giving him any encouragement. Rather than getting to know them, he offered ridiculous compliments that made Lena uncomfortable.

She wondered if their being granddaughters of a duke attracted him. While aware some considered her and her sisters attractive, appearance shouldn’t be the only factor that drew a suitor.

“I’ve noted you riding with your grandfather on other occasions, but I am pleased to find you on your own this morning.” The viscount’s brown hair was clipped short, his dark eyes lit with interest as he studied her.

“We ride together quite often.” How interesting that Ludham hadn’t approached them then.

“The latest news on Clarke’s endeavors on Oak Island sounds quite promising. I hope you aren’t finding it too upsetting.”

Lena debated how much to say. Just how involved was Ludham in the matter? Would telling him how wrong she thought Clarke was increase the chances of bringing the matter to a conclusion? If only she’d asked Marbury for more details.

This chance might not come again. What harm could come from using it as best she could?

She forced a laugh. If she was going to do this, she intended to take it as far as she could to rattle the viscount. “There is no possibility that Clarke has found the Money Pit.” She shook her head, keeping her smile in place.

“What makes you think that?” The tightness in Ludham’s voice was unmistakable.

“Obviously, you’ve never been on the island, or you wouldn’t have to ask. I don’t pretend to know what game Clarke is playing, but he’s about to make a fool of himself and all of those with whom he’s associated.” She cast the viscount a look out of the corner of her eye to gauge his reaction.

His narrow lips pursed as if he’d taken a bite of lemon, making his displeasure obvious.

She couldn’t resist pressing further. “The shafts that have been dug over the years are numerous. Searchers were either looking for the Money Pit or attempting to find a way to dig around the flood tunnels that protect it. I don’t believe for a moment that Clarke has stumbled upon the proper shaft this quickly. In fact, I’m certain of it.”

Ludham drew back on his reins, and her mount slowed as well. “How are you so sure?”

She smiled again, holding his gaze, allowing the certainty of her sense of knowing to fill her. “I will only tell you that I have no doubt.”

Before he could question her further, Bernie arrived with her groom behind her. She frowned at Viscount Ludham, clearly not wanting him there. “Good morning.”

“Lady Bernice.” Ludham dipped his head. “What a pleasure to see you.” He seemed to be making a concerted effort to regain his composure, though his expression was still pinched.

Bernie glared at him from behind her spectacles, seeming less than impressed by his greeting. “Ludham.”

The viscount seemed to grasp the fact that Lena and Bernie had planned on riding together this morning as he glanced between them. “Were you two expecting one another?”

“Yes,” Bernie replied without hesitation. “Though I often ride at this hour, Miss Wright accepted my invitation to join me this morning.”

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