Scandalous Endeavors (Ladies and Scoundrels Book 1) Read Free Page B

Lewis. “Forgive my forwardness on the matter, but what are your plans for Amelia now that you have been appointed her guardian?”
    “I am taking her to live with me in America, at least until she reaches the age of majority. I hope she will find it to her liking and choose to stay permanently, but, alas, that will be her decision.”
    As indignation rose inside her, Amelia fought to maintain her composure. He must have gone completely mad! She would never choose America over England. How could he not realize she had no inclination to live in America? Not now--not ever. England was her home, and God as her witness, it always would be. Abandoning England would be the same as abandoning her parents, which she would never consider doing.
    Grace nodded, her expression remaining warm. “I see, and when will you be departing for America?”
    Amelia shifted in her seat and tried to inconspicuously wipe her sweating palms while she waited for the scheme to play out.
    “Our ship leaves port Monday, shortly after sunrise. I am looking forward to my return.”
    “My...but this Monday morning?” Grace’s gasp would have convinced the queen herself.
    “Yes, you see, I have already stayed in England much longer than I should have. It is spring planting time. I am needed at my plantation to ensure things run smoothly.”
    “I can see how that would be necessary, but it is simply unreasonable to expect Amelia to leave her home behind for two years on a few days’ notice. She needs more time to settle her affairs here in London and at Everthorne. They are her responsibility now.”
    “But how will--”
    “Not to worry, Lewis. I would be happy to chaperone her, if it pleases you.” The duchess leaned toward him and batted her thick lashes. “Having Amelia under my roof would be a comfort.”
    Amelia pressed her lips together to keep her mouth from falling open at the duchess’s astute intervention. Old hand indeed. Now, if only Uncle Lewis would cooperate. With bated breath, she awaited his reply.
    “I had not considered procuring a chaperone, and I do not look forward to traveling without Amelia.” He sighed, his brows drawing together. “However, your offer is generous, and it appears that it would please you both.”
    His emerald gaze locked with Amelia’s as he asked, “How much time is required for you to properly prepare?”
    “Two months,” Amelia blurted, then chided herself for her haste. Why did she not ask for more time? A full year would have gotten her out of mourning, thereby making the task of finding a husband much easier. But, alas, he never would have agreed to such a lengthy period.
    He rested his chin on his fists and closed his eyes for a moment before he opened them again. “This time frame is agreeable to you, duchess?”
    “Indeed, I should be delighted to chaperone her for two months. Or even longer, if necessary.”
    “You are very generous, but she will not need more time than we have agreed upon.”
    Grace arched a conspiratorial eyebrow. “Are we in agreement then, Lewis?”
    “It would be rude of me to deny such a reasonable request.” His gaze locked on Amelia’s. “Two months--and not a day longer.”
    Dashing from her chair, Amelia threw herself into Uncle Lewis’s arms, “Thank you, thank you so much. You have no idea what this means to me.”
    “All thanks should be directed at her grace. It is her generous offer that is allowing you to stay a bit longer.”
    Amelia pressed her lips against his warm cheek before returning her attention to the duchess. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity will not be wasted on me.”
    Grace took her hands, a jubilant expression upon her face. “You are most welcome, my dear.”
    A maid entered the drawing room and set up afternoon tea. Amelia’s thoughts raced as she picked up a delicate china cup, failing to notice she had forgotten to add sugar until she took a sip and shuddered at the bitterness.
    Uncle Lewis and Grace