Encouraging? He had practically placed his foot on her back to push her in that direction, but one didn’t point out such things to one’s father.
He continued. “But that doesn’t mean we should abandon the idea altogether. What about young Wethington, who always seems to be hanging about when I arrive?”
She stared at him aghast. “Papa, please. Lord Wethington and I are friends. We belong to the same book club and enjoy similar activities. Nothing more than that.”
Her father pointed his finger at her. “A good reason to consider matrimony. Many successful marriages have begun with less than that.”
Attempting to dispute his comments about a husband would be useless. He never listened during those arguments anyway. If he didn’t want to hear any more about her investigation, that was fine, but that didn’t mean she would stop what she was doing. She and William already had three people on their suspect list, as well as information on St. Vincent’s financial condition that William had yet to share with her.
Perhaps she was not a professional investigator, but it appeared she was doing a much better job than the police.
Papa shifted in his chair and attempted to look remorseful for his outburst. “If you have been poking around, you will turn over whatever information you possess to Sir Holstein when he visits with you.”
When she just stared at him, he added, “I mean it, Amy.”
Since he hadn’t asked for her word to hand over her information, it was best to nod to appease him before he did. Although women were not considered as honorable as men, she never gave her word and went back on it. Before Papa could ask, she jumped up. “Is that all, Papa? I am expecting Lord Wethington shortly. We are going for a stroll through Royal Victoria Park.”
Papa’s face lit up. “Indeed? You see, I was correct about the lad, and I’m pleased to hear that. Lord Wethington is a fine man and would make an excellent husband.”
Amy groaned. “Papa! Again, we are just friends. I’ve told you before I have no desire or need for a husband.”
He waved his hand in dismissal. “Nonsense. Every woman needs a husband.”
“Aunt Margaret?”
Papa scowled. “Do not remind me of my stubborn sister. If I had my way, she would have been married years ago, with several children taking up her time and attention.”
Glad to have his scrutiny diverted from her and in Aunt Margaret’s direction, Amy took the opportunity to escape. “Perhaps that is so.” She began to back away toward the door. “If you will excuse me, I must prepare for his lordship’s arrival.” As she reached for the door latch, she stopped as a horrible thought crossed her mind. “Um, Papa. Are you staying long?”
“No. I shall be off first thing in the morning. I am extremely unhappy about leaving you to your own devices with a killer about the place. However, I have too many matters in London that cannot wait on my attendance.”
Giddy with relief, Amy had turned to leave the room when Papa said, “However, as soon as I can free up your brother’s time, he will arrive to look after you.”
Her stomach sank at those words as she hurried up the stairs to fetch her bonnet and gloves. Having her brother about was almost as bad as Papa looking over her shoulder. She pushed that thought aside as she noticed the sun shining brightly. A great day for a stroll and a discussion of murder.
She no sooner had herself ready for the day than she heard the sound of carriage wheels outside the house. A quick peek out her bedroom window, which faced the street, confirmed it was William, and she hurried downstairs before Papa could accost him and begin an interrogation. She might be able to slip a lie past Papa, but she doubted William would try.
William had only placed one foot in the entranceway when she grabbed his arm. “So nice to see you, my lord. It’s lovely outside, is it not?” She shoved him through the door and practically dragged him down the steps.
Once they reached his carriage, he pulled his arm back. “Whatever is the matter with you, Amy?” He pulled on the cuffs of his jacket and opened the door to the carriage.
“Nothing. I’m just anxious for us to share our news.”
He settled in the seat across from her and smirked. “This doesn’t have anything to do with the Winchester carriage I caught a glimpse of when I rode up to your house, does it?”
She sighed. “Yes. Papa sent word to have the carriage dispatched to the rail station to meet him. He arrived to see how I was bearing up with the murder hanging over my head. But worse than trying to convince Papa I am doing well and not attemp
ting to solve the mystery myself—”
William snorted.
“—he has arranged for a private investigator to join the search! That is terrible.”
“Why? Maybe it would be better to let the bloke take over so you can remain out of it and safe.”
Amy drew herself up and glared at him. “I will not remove myself from the search. First of all, we have put a lot of time and effort into this. Second, this man will be starting at the beginning and we are so far ahead of him. Third, this is my neck headed toward the noose if we don’t undercover the culprit.” She wrapped her arms around her body and shuddered. “Frankly, after Mr. Harris being so sure I murdered his uncle, I’m afraid the police will arrive at any time and haul me off to prison.”
“Mr. Harris is an idiot,” William snapped. “Please put that blackguard from your mind. My theory is he does not think you murdered Mr. St. Vincent at all. A reminder: he is on our list of suspects. If anything, I believe he attempted to trick you into revealing how much you knew. He attempted to shock you, and it worked.”