Pierce started in surprise. "Farrington? I thought we discussed this, and you said you didn't think he was involved with Baricci."
"I don't. I'm not speaking to him as a suspect, I'm speaking to him as Noelle's father."
Silence.
Then, Pierce leaned back against his desk, folded his arms across his chest, and shot his son a steely look. "Before I even ask you how all this ties in to Baricci, I'm going to ask you another question. What the hell is going on between you and Noelle Bromleigh? And don't tell me it's none of my business, because I'm making it my business.
"You disregarded her father's demands and arranged to see her by luring her to Markham. You haven't taken your eyes off her since she arrived. You managed to orchestrate several subtle disappearances with her—culminating in a lengthy one tonight. Have you any idea how angry Farrington was? He looked ready to call you out when he thought you'd whisked his daughter away from the ball and into the night. What's more, I don't blame him. I never intrude in your life, Ashford, but I'm intruding now. Are you trying to seduce Eric Bromleigh's daughter? And, if so, what the hell are you thinking?"
Ashford remained utterly still throughout his father's speech. It had been expected, given the staunch principles by which Pierce Thornton lived—by which the entire Thornton family lived.
Now, Ashford drew a slow breath, contemplating his father's words and his own answer. "Am I trying to seduce Noelle?" he repeated slowly. "Definitely not. On the contrary, I'm trying like hell not to seduce her. As for what I'm thinking—I'm not certain. I still haven't finished sorting out my thoughts—when I'm capable of having any, that is. I realize that's not much of an explanation, but it's the only one I can provide."
"I see." Pierce's expression remained unchanged. "Do you realize the consequences Noelle will suffer if you take her to bed? She'll be ruined, her entire life altered in a way she's too naive to fathom."
"I won't ruin her. That's not an option. It can't be." Ashford slowly raised his head, met his father's hard stare. "You better than anyone know my life is very complex, in more ways than a single soul—other than you and Mother—is aware. I didn't expect this emotional complication, and yet it's struck me like a ton of bricks. I have a great deal I need to work through. And before I do, I need to talk to Lord and Lady Farrington, because their response will impact what happens next—both personally and professionally. In short, I'm not ready to discuss this issue with you. You're just going to have to trust me."
Another silence, this one charged with energy.
At last, Pierce nodded. "All right." He pushed away from his desk. "Your conversation with the earl and countess—I assume it pertains to Baricci as well?"
"Yes. I'll supply you with all the details later. But I need to talk to the Bromleighs now, while the ball is still in full swing and they won't be missed—or followed by their overly-curious daughter."
"I'm on my way." Pierce paused, studying his son. "I certainly hope you know what you're doing."
He crossed over and left the study.
Ashford stared after him. "So do I," he muttered to himself. "So do I."
* * *
Pierce paused in the ballroom doorway, assessing the ongoing party. After several hours of merrymaking, the guests were either dancing, chatting, seeking refreshments, or so deep in their cups they could hardly stand.
No matter. The proverbial coffers were filled, spilling over with the thousands of hundred-pound notes that had been lost or donated during the past three days. The activities provided had been numerous and diverse, ranging from cards to billiards to horse racing. As for the amenities, Daphne had outdone herself, transforming Markham into a veritable haven for men, women, and children alike. She'd charmed their guests into the most generous of moods, and, as a result, the poorest of England's parishes would soon be the beneficiaries.
Speaking of Daphne, it was time to find her.
Scanning the room, Pierce located his family, one by one. They were scattered about, Sheridan and Blair holding court in the far corner, surrounded by half a dozen simpering women, Carston and Juliet enjoying a minuet together, and Daphne sipping at some punch, laughing and conversing with all three Bromleighs.
Thank God for his wife's uncanny instincts. Somehow she'd known to remain where she was, to linger with the earl and countess until he returned.
Nodding politely at his guests, Pierce made his way to their sides.
"Ah, Pierce." Daphne gave him a melting smile, tucking her arm through his. "I'm glad you could break away."
Noelle's head shot up, and she craned her neck, scrutinizing the room in a less-than-subtle search for Ashford.
"Ashford is still in my study," Pierce supplied helpfully. "He's assisting me by tallying up all the donations we've received and determining how best to divide them. Each parish has a different number of people, each of whom has different needs. Which reminds me—" A glance at Eric. "My son has a financial question that pertains to Mr. Curran's parish. He's hoping you'll be able to provide him with an answer. He asked if you and the countess could possibly slip away from the party for a few minutes and poke your head into my study. I realize tonight's gathering is social, not business. And both Ashford and I hate imposing upon you, but…"
"Nonsense." Instantly, Brigitte waved away his apology. "Raising money for the needy is what this party is all about. With regard to our parish, Grandfather is incredibly grateful for all you've done—all you continue to do. Eric and I would be honored to assist you in any way we can."
"My wife speaks for us both." Eric took Brigitte's hand in his. "We'll go see your son straightaway. Just tell us where we can find the study."
"I'll take you there." Pierce turned to Daphne, his gaze speaking far more eloquently than his words. "You don't mind, do you, Snow Flame?"
She picked up on his message, if not the rationale behind it, at once. "Of course not. Noelle and I will be just fine. We'll entertain each other, won't we?" She gave Noelle a warm smile.
"I'd li