Jacob sat next to him, unusually quiet.
“Get any sleep last night?” Rex eyed the boy from the corner of his gaze as he drove.
“I did all right.” Jacob shifted in his seat. “What is the solicitor going to tell me today?”
“Well…” Rex glanced over. Jacob’s face was drawn in tight lines. “He mostly gives legal advice in terms of drawing up contracts and helping me to acquire property, etcetera. Today I am purchasing a coal mine. I believe it’s the way of the future and they are inexpensive now.”
Jacob’s mouth twisted. “I’ve no money to write a contract to purchase anything. I mean I could sell the house but then where would I live until I could afford a new one?”
Rex scratched his chin. “What you need, young man, is a loan.”
“Who would loan a boy money?” Jacob’s shoulder’s hunched.
“I would.” Rex gave Jacob a nudge with his elbow. “I’ll give you excellent terms and I’ve every faith that you will do great things with the money.”
Jacob straightened, his shoulders snapping back. “Why would you do that?”
“It’s a sound decision for both of us. You’ll get an asset that I am convinced will make you money. Once it does, buy another. I will earn interest on the money I lent you. We will both make a profit.”
“Shouldn’t you just buy the mine yourself?” Jacob’s voice dropped low, as he looked down at his lap once again.
“I suppose, but then I wouldn’t be helping you and Petal.”
Jacob was quiet as he dropped his elbows to his knees. “Have you ever considered just marrying my sister? I see the way you look at her.”
Rex parted his lips, but no sound came out. He’d like to say yes, I’ve considered it. Every other second since I’ve arrived. “Petal deserves the best sort of man. I wouldn’t be good enough for her.”
Jacob cocked his head. “If you say so. You’re an earl who isn’t destitute. Petal was about to beat out rugs when we left.”
That was a bloody good point. “I was not a good husband to my first wife.”
Jacob leaned closer. “After the Rathemore incident, Petal tried to run away and join a nunnery. My mother stopped her, saying that she would bring a good match to the family yet. Whatever type of husband you are, I can only imagine it would be better than spending the day in prayer.” Jacob gave a shiver.
* * *
Jacob and Rex left for the solicitor and Daffodil sighed with relief. One, she needed a reprieve from Rex’s strong arms and penetrating gaze. He was working his way under her defenses. But also, she was glad that Jacob would finally learn how to properly manage their affairs. Her father had been kind and attentive but he’d spent every penny they had and sold nearly every asset to spend more.
Her father, looking back, hadn’t wanted to work. Thankfully, none of his children followed in his footsteps. She wondered which of her parents had suffered from loose morals. Or was she an anomaly in the family?
Sighing again, she set about dusting the library and the sitting room. She’d already attended the dishes and shaken out the rugs. She would soon bring the noon meal to Mrs. Fields. Dr. Mayweather had sent a note saying that he’d lined up some interviews this afternoon. With any luck, they’d have a small staff when they left.
Once her sister was married, she would implore her brother-in-law to sponsor her for the season, make a match as quickly as possible, and save her from herself. Once married, she’d be safe from her own foolish desires. She’d be safe from Rex.
Finishing the dusting, she made her way to the kitchen and prepared two plates. Piling them onto a tray, she headed up the stairs to Mrs. Field’s room.
Knocking softly, she entered the darkened room to find Mrs. Fields dozing in her bed. The woman cracked open her eyes and gave Daffodil a smile. “Lady Daffodil. Is it time to eat again already?”
Daffodil nodded. “It is. Are you feeling all right?”
“Fine, fine. I’ve been tired the past few days but also in less pain. I’m catching up on all the sleep I missed, I think.” She pulled herself up in bed as Daffodil set down the tray and plumped the pillows behind her.
“I’m glad to hear it.” She smiled. “Lord Casterly is hiring a few servants to attend you and the house while we go to Violet’s wedding. But I’ll be back as soon as I can to check on you. Write if you’re well before that and we will come get you.”
Mrs. Fields reached her hand up and touched Daffodil’s cheek. “You always were the sweetest soul.”
Daffodil tried not to frown. She appreciated Mrs. Field’s words, but they just weren’t true. “Thank you for saying that. I haven’t been acting like it lately.”
“You mean that Rathemore business last fall? Don’t mix that up in your head.” Mrs. Fields waved her hand.