He inclines his head in a nod. “I was hoping to check after Charlotte.” Seemingly remembering his manners, he quickly adds, “Although I trust you are well?”
“Quite,” I assure him, though I have to bite back my discomfort at hearing him calling Charlie by his given name and knowing I must do the same. “Charlotte is well, settling in and quite happy with…her new home. I’m sure she’ll be pleased to hear of your concern.”
He seems to relax at that. “Please do not take my worry as criticism, Mr. Kane. You have to understand—I love my daughter dearly. It’s why I was so grateful to know she approved of your match.”
I consider his words. “Do you truly mean that?”
“Pardon?” he asks, his surprise evident.
“You care for your daughter’s every happiness?”
“I… Yes, of course.”
I watch Mr. Valentine for any sign of dishonesty but see none. “Charlotte has mentioned fondly that she enjoyed your lessons on the stars as a child. I admit, it’s made me curious to know more. Would you have any books on the subject I could take home with me?”
Mr. Valentine blinks before nodding once. “I believe so, yes. Would you have time to come to my office?”
“Certainly. Let me grab my belongings, and I’ll join you.”
Charlie’s father waits as I collect my coat and bag, and then I walk with him to his office far from mine. He appraises his small bookshelf for a moment before plucking one heavily weighted book out and then a second. After a quick glance my way, he moves around to his desk, retrieving something from inside one of the drawers.
He hands me the stack of books, a leather-bound journal set on top. His palm rests on the journal for a long beat before he finally lets go. “My personal accounts. Charlotte used to enjoy them.”
I let loose a small breath and smile genuinely at Mr. Valentine, beyond pleased to realize I have an ally in the man. At least in regards to Charlie’s personal pursuits. “Thank you. I’m sure I will enjoy them as well.”
Charlie’s father nods and leads me to the door.
“Is there anything you wish for me to pass along?” I ask before we part.
Mr. Valentine closes his eyes briefly, his voice almost wistful. “186,000 miles.”
“186?” I check.
He nods once. “Good day to you, Mr. Kane.”
I leave Charlie’s father at his office door. The walk into town takes some time, though I keep my steps brisk. I already asked for Howard, my coachman, to collect me later than normal today, despite my desire to return home swiftly. There are a couple matters I must attend to first.
The small shop that produces telescopes is near the center of town, flourishing, I’m sure, because of the astronomy department at the university. They have several models oftelescopes on display, ranging from small handheld units to those on large stands. I find the biggest one they have and place an order.
Next, I make a stop at the theatre. I garner a curious look or two from the head seamstress, but money truly does work wonders. I acquire what I came for and head off to catch my buggy home.
My knee bounces on the ride back to the manor, my hands returning to the books from Mr. Valentine, as well as Charlie’s discreetly wrapped gift. I do so hope he likes it.
When I arrive home, it’s already suppertime. I thank Howard before making my way inside. The front of the manor is quiet, and a quick check inside the dining room confirms Charlie is absent. I have my suspicions about where he’ll be, but Bess appears before I have a chance to go check.
“Sir,” she says politely, carrying a stack of freshly laundered towels.
“Bess,” I say before she can get far. “Have you seen Charlie today?”
She hesitates before shaking her head. “I haven’t. I don’t believe he’s come down.”
My chest stutters at the simple usage of the masculine pronoun, and I give Bess a warm, appreciative smile. “I believe he may be in hiding.”
Her lips quirk slightly at that. “Anything I can do?”
I nod slowly, considering. “If he doesn’t come down tomorrow, perhaps a visit? Some subtle encouragement that he is welcome. I fear he may not believe it to be true until he hears it from someone other than myself.”
Bess inclines her head. “Consider it done, sir. Should I have supper brought upstairs tonight?”
