In Finn’s voice, Aiden heard all the love he held for the child, and he fully understood it. He himself had met the adorable little girl. All the family had spent time in her company because Finn didn’t have to keep her a secret. He had only to protect her from the knowledge he was her father until she was older and able to fully understand all the circumstances surrounding her birth. But Aiden wouldn’t have that luxury. His child, should he have one by Selena, would have to remain a secret, even from those he loved and trusted. And he could never admit to being the father—not under any circumstances. They might design a scenario where he could spend time with the lad or lass, but it wouldn’t be as open as Finn’s relationship with his daughter. Finn’s child wasn’t being raised among the aristocracy. Aiden’s would be and that made his being in the child’s life in a believable way all the more difficult.

Once Selena and her sisters arrived home, in the foyer, they all handed their cloaks and hats to the butler.

“Girls, I need a moment of your time in the library,” Selena announced. Preceding them into the room, she went straightway to the sideboard and poured herself a sherry for fortitude. Turning, she smiled at her sisters, who all wore identical furrows in their brows. “Please sit.”

She indicated a nearby sitting area with two small sofas and one plush chair. Taking the chair, she waited while they settled themselves on the sofas. “I need to go to Sheffield Hall in the morning to see to some business.”

Connie looked at Flo and Alice, then met Selena’s gaze. “We’ll go with you.”

“I need you all to remain here. People are still stopping by to offer their condolences, and I would like you to represent me in my short absence. I’ll return tomorrow evening.” All Aiden had to do was catch a glimpse of the estate, the manor house, and he would be impressed with the grandness of what his son would inherit.

Flo angled her head in thought. “Why do you have to go?”

“A matter’s been brought to my attention that requires my presence.” She hated lying to them, but it was preferable to the truth.

“What matter?”

“It has to do with the estate.”

“In what manner?”

“I’m not exactly certain, which is the reason I have to go.” She shot to her feet, paced three steps away before returning. “Please, just know that it’s crucial to your futures.”

“I don’t understand—”

She interrupted Flo. “You don’t need to. Simply trust me. And do as I ask. Remain here, and if anyone should inquire regarding my absence, explain that I had to tend to business at Sheffield Hall.”

“Yes, all right.”