“I am terribly sorry to disturb you, sir, but there appears to have been something of a misunderstanding.”

Chapter Two

Serena stared at the immense book-lined room. Three rooms linked together, actually. A library unlike anything she’d ever seen. Of course the entire property was singular, from the lush countryside that surrounded the gargantuan house, to the vast suite of rooms she’d been given for her brief stay. Rooms that were twice as large as any she could recall at Keeting Hall.

Jessup had taken care of her as if she were a queen, sending one messenger speeding off to London and another all the way to Ayelford—the nearest town with a dress shop—to purchase a nightgown and dressing robe. These, as well as a selection of toiletries, combs, and brushes—all new—awaited her in her sumptuous chambers. Serena would have to wear her clothing to dinner and again tomorrow when she left, but Jessup told her Mr. Lockheart had been apprised of the matter and tonight’s dinner would be informal.

All in all, she could not be unhappy to be staying an evening in such a house. The library alone was worth the inconvenience. Bookshelves began only a few inches off the floor and did not stop until the ceiling, which she believed to be at least fifteen feet high. The book ladder was precariously tall, and she could imagine herself scaling it and risking life and limb for the sake of a book.

She was examining a rather exquisite set of six volumes of illuminated French poetry when the door opened behind her. She turned to find Sandy Featherstone, her deceased husband’s cousin, twice removed.

“Hallo, Serena, Beech told me you’d agreed to come.” He came toward her with his arms outstretched and Serena submitted with resignation to his embrace. He was a sticky-handed man whom she had only ever tolerated because of his connection to the family.

Serena stepped away when it became apparent he was not going to voluntarily release her. He eyed her in a way that made her jaw tighten, his small-fingered hands moving in their habitual hand-washing motions.

“Hallo, Sandy.” Serena forced a smile. “So, it appears I have you to thank for this.” She made a gesture which encompassed everything around them.

He grinned, the sight somewhat alarming as he seemed to have twice the normal complement of teeth. “It was nothing, my dear—merely family looking after family. Besides, I told Beech we had better snap you up before your fees became exorbitant.” He chortled, clearly tickled at the thought of such a thing happening.

Serena’s smile became even stiffer. “Well, whatever the reason, I do appreciate it. I’ve just finished a series of small commissions and was at loose ends.”

“What are cousins for, my dear?” He gestured toward a cluster of decanters sitting on a granite slab supported by massive gold lion’s feet. “Would you like a drink before dinner, Serena?” His hand trembled slightly, making it clear he would like a drink.