My Duke's Deception (Wicked Lords of London 2)

Ella stood. “Your Grace, I apologize for interrupting your day.”

“It’s quite all right.” Tricia gave her a warm smile. “I apologize for not joining you at the orphanage yesterday. I was occupied with my own family.”

“I can see that.” Ella gushed as she peeked at the baby upon Tricia’s hip. He was adorable with dark hair and chocolate brown eyes.

“This is my son, Riley.” Tricia kissed the baby’s cheek as she nuzzled him close.

It was beautiful to see them together but it made her a touch sad too. She’d care for infants at the orphanage, but they wouldn’t be hers. If she wanted what was best for them, she’d be hoping that they found a family. “He is so precious. You must be thrilled.”

Tricia beamed. “I am.” Then her green eyes twinkled even brighter. “I heard Matthew was a big help at the orphanage. I hope you will consider helping us to start and run additional orphanages.”

Ella blinked. What did she mean? “Run orphanages?”

Tricia cleared her throat. “When you and Matthew are married.”

Heat filled Ella’s cheeks, and she looked down at the floor. “Oh.” She took a deep breath. “We are not, that is to say, Matthew would never, I mean, we won’t marry.”

She heard Tricia’s gasp. “My apologies. I didn’t mean to assume. It was just that Tabbie saw you together yesterday at the orphanage and…” her voice trailed off.

Ella cleared her throat. “I understand.” She took a step closer to Tricia. “But I came here to ask about a position. If you are still willing to hire me.”

But it was Tricia’s turn to look away. “Of course, I am. But honestly, it’s obvious to all those who know Matthew that he has feelings for you. You should give him more time to realize that he needs you by his side.”

“Thank you for your kind words but there is no more time. He is booking passage to Barbados. We have learned his sister is there.” She tried to put on a brave smile as she shared the next part. “And I doubt he would ever want me. I am nothing compared with the ladies he could choose from.”

Tricia’s eyebrows rose to her hairline as she met Ella’s gaze again. “You don’t give yourself enough credit. Matthew has a tremendous amount of affection for you. You should tell him how you feel and—”

“Please, Tricia, I appreciate your words but I did tell him how I felt.” Her stomach twisted painfully. “Would you allow me to start tomorrow?”

Tricia was silent for so long that Ella finally glanced up to her. “Of course,” she replied. “Whatever you need.” It was only then that Tricia sat down balancing her son on her knee. “But honestly, I think you had better start this story from the beginning. And don’t spare any details. My courtship with Ryker was the furthest from conventional that you could possibly imagine. I doubt we’ll have time today, but I promise to tell you the story in its entirety. Here is a hint, though, so you don’t feel shy. I was completely and thoroughly ruined at the Marquess of Highwater’s ball.”

A smile pulled at the corner of her lip, Ella could hardly believe it. “You’re joking.” But she took a seat on the settee across from the duchess. “That did not happen.”

Tricia gave her a warm smile. “It did. I should add that Ryker and I met at the Docklands, well past midnight, where I had travelled alone.” Tricia’s wiggled her eyebrows. “You won’t say anything that will shock me.”

With a breath, Ella nodded and allowed the story to tumble out. Tricia listened attentively and, at some point, stood from her own seat to sit next to Ella. When the last of it had tumbled out, Ella slumped against the back of the seat. Tears threatening once again.

But Tricia didn’t look sympathetic, more thoughtful. “Where did he go this morning?”

“I don’t know.” Ella shook her head.

“He was terribly jealous to see you with Lord Michaels, that much I know. He said so to Ryker the night of the party. Truthfully, Ryker also expected him to propose.”

“Jealous?” A few details clicked into place. No one had ever been jealous where she was concerned.

“It could be that he is still angry and that is why he is leaving. You have to tell him under no uncertain terms that you don’t care for Lord Michaels. Make your feelings clear again. When you are not…in bed.” Tricia gave her a wink. “Their brains are addled in that state.”

“And find out where he was. That is an important detail.” Tricia nodded her head.

“Why?” she asked.

“I don’t know, but if he were, for example, getting a marriage license and then found you with Michaels…”

Ella gasped at the very thought of it. “You don’t think that’s what he was doing?”

“Perhaps. He is a man of high principle, Ella.” Tricia leaned forward. “If he wasn’t, he would have taken you as a mistress. If he bedded you, his intentions are likely serious.”

That, more than anything, made Ella pause. Because it made so much sense. “I think, I think I have to go. I have to talk with him.”