Chapter Thirteen #2
Linus smiled at the seeming absurdity of that. “The man whose mere arrival at an event brings all of Society to its knees and who can, with a single look, send all of Lords into a fit of horror-fueled hysterics has been rendered ‘a mess’ by a three-year-old boy.”
“Adam lost his father when he was quite young,” she said.
“He still cannot speak of him without growing emotional. He has lived his life since his father’s death so terrified of losing the people he loves that he works very hard not to love anyone.
Yet, he has a good heart, and when he does love, he loves fiercely. ”
“That is why you love him so much.”
She nodded slowly, thoughtfully. “One of many reasons.”
“What does he think of Artemis?”
“She drives him a bit mad.” Persephone’s laugh changed to a sigh. “I think he will be more than a little sad to see her go when she eventually has a home and family of her own. He cried after Daphne left, though don’t you dare tell him I told you that.”
“You have my word, though I am keeping a lot of your secrets just now.”
“I hope this next child is a girl,” she said, her voice low. “I would dearly love to watch Adam raise a daughter.”
“He’ll lock her in the tower once she’s old enough to have a Season.”
Persephone wiggled an eyebrow. “Won’t that be diverting?”
“You are happy together.” Linus had known as much since the first day he’d met his brother-in-law, but he was grateful to see that it was still true.
“What of you, Linus?” Persephone asked. “Is there anyone you think you might be happy with?”
“Do not act innocent with me,” he said. “I know you, Athena, and Artemis have been acting the part of matchmaker. The only reason Daphne is not in my black books like the rest of you is she is not here and is, therefore, not participating.”
“I have watched you tonight. You are doing your best to not fall in line with our efforts.”
He only hoped that was all she’d noticed. “There will be time enough for courtship. Eventually.”
“You mean, for example, once Dr. Scorseby vacates his seat?”
The physician was, in that moment, sitting beside Miss Hampton. “Whatever do you mean?”
“I am not blind, Linus. She has captured your attention, perhaps a bit of your affection.”
How had his sister already seen what he himself had only just realized?
Persephone hooked her arm through his and walked with him along the edge of the room. “Don’t fret over Artemis and Athena. They’ve been too distracted by their own ideas to notice what is right in front of them, and I don’t intend to say a word to either one.”
There was little point denying the truth of Persephone’s conjecture, but any idea she might have beyond that needed squelching. “I’ve only known her a few days,” he reminded his sister. “I have enjoyed talking with her and laughing with her.”
“You’ve been laughing?”
“We both are uncertain of where we fit in this gathering, so we formulated a plan for creating a club of outcasts.” Spoken plainly, it sounded a bit juvenile, yet he thoroughly enjoyed jesting with Arabella about it.
“I know it’s ridiculous, but as preposterous as the jest is, it’s been comforting to have someone understand how I feel. ”
“That is a fine thing, Linus,” she said. “You do not jest and tease as often as you once did.”
“I have found a friend, Persephone. Do not infer more than that.”
“I’m not sending Adam for a special license. I’m simply saying she seems a pleasant lady.”
“I have found her to be,” he said.
“Then I wish you luck and something even better.”
His curiosity was piqued. “What is that?”
She slipped her arm free of his. “Courage.” She gave him a firm but gentle shove, placing him directly in front of Miss Hampton, then walked away.
“Lieutenant Lancaster.” Dr. Scorseby stood and offered his hand. Linus shook it firmly.
“How are your young patients?” Linus asked.
“Improving.”
They hadn’t ended their handshake.
“I’m glad to hear it,” Linus said. “I’m certain the children’s parents are as well.”
The doctor’s grip tightened. “I hope that they are. I do all I can for the people in my care.”
Linus pulled his hand away from the physician’s. After a quick nod, he turned to the person he actually wanted to spend a moment with.
“Miss Hampton.” He offered a bow. “I’ve not yet had the opportunity to speak with you this evening. How are you?”
“I am well. And you? Have you enjoyed any gothic novels lately?”
He grinned, ignoring Dr. Scorseby’s surprised expression. “What else would I be doing with my time?”
“Making paper boats with a tiny child,” she said. “Choosing a tenderhearted little girl as your bowls partner. Befriending a struggling young gentleman.” The soft look she gave him sent a wave of warmth over him. “I suspect you spend your time very wisely and very kindly.”
“That is praise, indeed, Miss Hampton.”
Her gaze dropped to her clasped hands resting on her lap.
“You’ve put her to the blush.” Dr. Scorseby censured. “That was not well done of you.”
He hadn’t meant to embarrass her. He was grateful for her words.
Few things hung heavier on his mind than the worry that he didn’t make a difference in anyone’s life, that he did very little that mattered.
Knowing that she felt otherwise meant a great deal to him.
He ought not repay her kindness by making her uncomfortable.
“I will not take up more of your time,” he said. “I do have my collection of Minerva Press offerings to return to.”
Her eyes sparkled, and all was right in the world once more. “Enjoy your reading,” she said. “I will be working on the bylaws for our club.”
“Include a provision excluding three-year-old boys, because I am certain Oliver will be our downfall otherwise.”
“I will consider it.” She laughed.
She never laughed with Scorseby. She seldom smiled. Did he not at least try to bring some sparkle to her eyes, some joy to her countenance? She deserved to be happy. The doctor ought to be doing everything he could to bring her a bit of cheer.
“A good evening to you, Miss Hampton.”
“And to you.”
A quick bow. A brief glance at Scorseby. Then he moved along, but his thoughts remained with her. He needed to find a way to spend more time with her in the days and evenings to come. He could bring her a smile or two, and she would lift his spirits as well.
He longed for her company. Did she long for his?