Forsaking the Prize (The Wild Randalls 2)

“You’re fond of him,” Oliver said bluntly.

Blythe nodded, realizing it was true.

“What about your husband? Does he know you’re staying at an inn with another man?”

“My husband passed away some time ago.” For the first time ever, Blythe felt no pain as she said the words. She would always wish they had longer together, but she wasn’t so sad anymore. She pulled a chair up close to the bed and studied Oliver Randall.

He was quite unlike Tobias in appearance; hair cropped close to his skull and heavily peppered with steel grey strands, face thin and sallow. Perhaps the lack of similarity was the result of his condition. “Forgive me for asking, but are you ill, Mr. Randall?”

He shook his head listlessly on the pillow. “Meal times were never what one could call regular. Given time, I’ll come good again.”

“Good. I should hate for you to be truly unwell. Your brother wishes to return to Romsey Abbey today, if at all possible.”

“I look old, don’t I?”

She nodded slowly. “I thought you a good deal older than you must be. Leopold’s hair is only touched with grey at his temples.”

“My hair changed soon after my incarceration. Worry caused it, I expect.”

She patted his hand. “I’m sure it’ll make no difference to the people who love you.”

He sighed heavily. “I never gave a thought to my appearance before.”

“Most people take what they have for granted.” She paused to wait while he coughed again then fetched him some wine to ease his throat. “Tobias mentioned you were a curious minded fellow. Your time at Skepington must have been terrible.”

“I am, as ever, a keen observer of human frailties. I learned a great deal during my time there.” Oliver sipped slowly and then handed the glass back. “To say I was obsessive about the study of architecture when I was young would be kind.”

“And you’ve changed?”

“Somewhat. I believe my best interests lie outside of England. I hope to travel the world one day.”

Oliver made travel abroad sound so easy. But surely he knew about the war. She put the glass down. “It is very good to have met you, Mr. Randall. Leopold has spoken of you from the moment we met. He never gave up hope of finding you. He will have many things to discuss with you when you meet again. Do not be too quick to decide your future.”

“I have thought of nothing but an alternative future to the one I lived. Once my health is restored we will go. There is nothing to hold us here.”

“Us?” Blythe shifted on the chair uneasily. “Who are you taking with you?”

“My family, of course, and a friend. By my calculation, there should be sufficient funds to support us for years.”

Blythe gaped. “Surely you don’t imagine Leopold would leave his child and the woman he loves? He is planning a life with them.”

Oliver stared at her. “Emotions are more of a nuisance at times like these. I suggest you step back and see the possibilities. I’m sure Tobias will agree with me.”

“What will I agree to?” Tobias asked from the door.

“Your brother and I were becoming better acquainted.” Blythe’s throat thickened and she forced the words out. “He’s mentioned he has plans to travel and take you all with him.”

“I’m not leaving England,” Tobias said instantly. “I’ve seen enough of the world.”

Blythe relaxed at Tobias’ tone. He’d only just returned. She couldn’t imagine not seeing him every day. Perhaps he could be talked out of his travels plans, at least for now.

Oliver’s gaze narrowed. “Well, I haven’t been anywhere.”

“We can talk this over with Leopold when we return to Romsey Abbey,” Tobias suggested. “We have a closed coach and grooms, and one to follow along with your chaise, too, my lady. The innkeeper was very keen to speed our departure.”

Blythe stood and gathered her things. As she laid Tobias’ small bundle on top of hers, her heart beat faster. They had not spoken about the future, but she supposed now Oliver had been found their time alone, their closeness, would come to an end.

She followed behind Tobias and Oliver as he was helped downstairs and into the waiting carriage. The innkeeper had supplied blankets and pillows for Oliver’s comfort and Tobias tucked them around him, covering him from head to foot so he would stay warm.