Only the valet will do, p.1
Only the Valet Will Do, page 1
ONLY THE VALET WILL DO
SOPHIE BARNES
Copyright © 2023 by Sophie Barnes
All rights reserved.
No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.
CONTENTS
Also By Sophie Barnes
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Epilogue
Sneak Peek!
Chapter One
Author’s note
Acknowledgments
About the Author
ALSO BY SOPHIE BARNES
Novels
Brazen Beauties
Mr. West and The Widow
Mr. Grier and The Governess
Mr. Dale and The Divorcée
Diamonds in the Rough
The Dishonored Viscount
Her Scottish Scoundrel
The Formidable Earl
The Forgotten Duke
The Infamous Duchess
The Illegitimate Duke
The Duke of Her Desire
A Most Unlikely Duke
The Crawfords
Her Seafaring Scoundrel
More Than a Rogue
No Ordinary Duke
Secrets at Thorncliff Manor
Christmas at Thorncliff Manor
His Scandalous Kiss
The Earl’s Complete Surrender
Lady Sarah’s Sinful Desires
At The Kingsborough Ball
The Danger in Tempting an Earl
The Scandal in Kissing an Heir
The Trouble with Being a Duke
The Summersbys
The Secret Life of Lady Lucinda
There’s Something About Lady Mary
Lady Alexandra’s Excellent Adventure
Standalone Titles
The Girl Who Stepped Into The Past
How Miss Rutherford Got Her Groove Back
Novellas
Diamonds in the Rough
The Roguish Baron
The Enterprising Scoundrels
Mr. Clarke’s Deepest Desire
Mr. Donahue’s Total Surrender
The Townsbridges
An Unexpected Temptation
A Duke for Miss Townsbridge
Falling for Mr. Townsbridge
Lady Abigail’s Perfect Match
When Love Leads To Scandal
Once Upon a Townsbridge Story
The Honorable Scoundrels
The Duke Who Came To Town
The Earl Who Loved Her
The Governess Who Captured His Heart
Standalone Titles
Sealed with a Yuletide Kiss (An historical romance advent calendar)
The Secrets of Colchester Hall
Mistletoe Magic (from Five Golden Rings: A Christmas Collection)
Miss Compton’s Christmas Romance
1
Lady Lilliana Enshaw, known to her friends as Lilli, gazed at the translucent piece of quartz in the palm of her hand. The delicate chain attached to one end slid over her fingers like liquid gold.
“Thank you, Eva.” Excitement coursed through Lilli’s veins as she spoke to her cousin, the Countess of Somerset. “You cannot imagine how long I’ve looked forward to wearing this.”
“You’ve had to wait the longest, which can’t have been easy.” Eva offered a soft smile and sipped her tea. “But with three successful weddings as proof of the stone’s matchmaking powers, I’m sure you’ll meet your future husband soon.”
Lilli prayed Eva was right, for she yearned to fall headlong into her own romantic adventure. As happy as she was for her cousins, Eva, Annie, and Henrietta, who’d all gotten married within the past year, it was difficult not to be envious of the loving glances and sweet endearments they frequently shared with their husbands.
“I hope so.” She carefully fastened the chain around her neck so the stone hung snugly against her skin, immediately above the décolletage of her lilac gown. “Unfortunately, my parents and I will be leaving London for Stratham House next week. I don’t anticipate forming any attachment while I’m there since no one else will be joining us besides Henry. So I fear I may have to wait until next year’s Season to find my true love.”
One would think that by being the daughter of the Earl and Countess of Stratham and the sister of Viscount Islington, one would have every chance in the world of meeting one’s intended. Not in Lilli’s experience.
“I doubt that will be the case,” Eva said. “Don’t fret, Lilli. I’m sure the stone will surprise you as much as it did me. Perhaps with a duke who’s passing by or maybe a friend of Henry’s.”
Lilli appreciated Eva’s encouragement though she failed to see how one of the last unmarried dukes in England would suddenly come knocking when none of them had familiar ties with her family. As for her brother, Henry’s, friends, she’d met them all and hadn’t been impressed.
Besides, Henry had specifically informed Mama that he would be coming alone. Which meant there would be no one to make Lilli’s heart beat faster for some time yet.
She expelled a breath and accepted this truth. As eager as she was to get on with a courtship, she didn’t feel the same sort of urgency as had her eldest cousin, Annie, who’d almost been on the shelf by the time the rose quartz crystal – and what it could do – had been discovered in their grandmother’s attic.
With regard to marriage, Lilli had time. She was only nineteen, so things weren’t too dire yet, but that didn’t make her less impatient. She’d always been the sort of person who craved activity and action. She disliked having to sit still and wait for any reason. Worst of all, she hated feeling as though she lacked control – the ability to get things done through her own force of will.
“Thank you for stopping by,” she said when Eva prepared to leave, “and for giving me the pendant.”
“You mustn’t fret,” Eva said, taking Lilli’s hand and giving it a gentle squeeze. “The stone will see you happy before you know it.”
Rather than voice her concerns, Lilli nodded and saw her cousin out. She then climbed the stairs to her bedchamber where she began compiling a list of all the things she would have to take with her to Stratham House next week. Between her science journals, the edition of Much Ado about Nothing she planned on re–reading, a few new adventure novels, her diary and correspondence, she hoped to distract herself from the cravings of her heart.
Seated in the well–sprung carriage belonging to his employer, Viscount Islington, Tristan Henley reviewed the tasks he’d jotted down for himself in a slim, leather–bound, pocket notebook. Number one, purchase a new bottle of sandalwood oil to replace the nearly depleted one he’d packed for Islington.
Next, he had to remember to write another response to the Earl of Fretmire on Islington’s behalf, turning down the invitation to visit him. Islington had answered the first letters himself, politely declining. But when the earl had grown more persistent, Tristan had promised to step in and handle the situation since Fretmire, who wanted a match between his daughter and Islington, refused to take a hint.
Tristan considered how to best phrase the letter, then paused to reflect. Perhaps, before seeing to tasks one and two, he ought to inform the cook at Stratham House of Islington’s newfound fondness for crêpes, which he preferred for breakfast instead of eggs, bacon, and toast.
“You’re very quiet today.” Islington spoke from the opposite bench, his voice pensive. “I hope there’s nothing troubling you.”
“Not at all,” Tristan said. “I’m only making some mental notes.”
He closed his notebook and gave his employer his full attention. He wasn’t so much troubled as wary and determined. Because he needed this job and the impressive salary it provided.
Many men in his position would think it beneath them to work, but beggars couldn’t be choosers and Tristan sorely needed the money. And since he’d grown accustomed to handling his own clothes and shoes as the family budget tightened and servants departed, he’d been prepared for the unusual position Islington had sought to fill. His only regret was the lie he’d told in order to secure the job. But if Islington had any inkling of who his valet truly was, Tristan feared he’d have turned him away.
Instead, he’d enjoyed three months of employment with a man he might have called a friend had his own situation been different. But fate had dealt a rough hand from which Tristan could see no immediate escape. Not that he minded. Serving the viscount had provided him with a new purpose along with the means by which to enjoy a visit to Cornwall.
“You work too hard,” Islington said, his firm voice scattering Tristan’s thoughts once more.
“I’d have thought that a welcome trait in an employee,” Tristan said.
Islington tilted his head. “For some, perhaps, but I am not the sort of man who enjoys working others to the point of exhaustion. And besides, you’re my valet, which literally makes you my closest confidante. I’d not mind having a leisurely chat with you on occasion. Least of all when we’re stuck together for several hours without other form of distraction.”
Tristan answered Islington’s warm expression with a smile. “My apologies. Is there a particular subject you’d like to discuss?”
“Let’s start with my sister.”
Tristan almost choked on his own tongue. “Pardon?”
Schooling his features, Islington locked gazes with Tristan. “Lady Lilliana is as spirited as they come, and while I adore this about her, it’s a characteristic destined to land her in trouble. In London, friends and family have always been kind enough to help keep her out of it. In Cornwall, however, she has more freedom. While there’s little for her to get up to in the ways of causing a scandal, I fear for her safety.”
“How so?” Tristan asked, his posture rigid and his mind in sudden turmoil. Babysitting what sounded to him like a willful hoyden had not been part of the job description.
“For starters, she has a history of getting wet, damaging her clothes, climbing into high places, sneaking off to secret hideouts and…” Islington grinned. “Don’t take me wrong. She’s a gently bred lady, but there is an adventurous streak to her that could use some taming.”
“Sounds like she needs to get married,” Tristan remarked before he could think better of it. He blinked. “My apologies. I did not mean to suggest–”
“That’s quite all right. Papa and I have already discussed it. In fact, part of the reason I’m going to Stratham House instead of to Bath as initially planned is so I can help talk some sense into her. And since you’ve been introduced to most of my social circle by now, I’m hoping you’ll advise me on the most suitable prospects. After all, Lilli is my sister, so I want her to be happy.”
Tristan wasn’t sure how he managed to smile at the idea of playing matchmaker to a young woman he’d never met – an earl’s daughter, no less. Teeth gritted behind stretched lips, he wondered if he’d been too hasty in appreciating his position. Clearly there was more to it than he could ever have dreamed possible. And rather than look forward to reaching Stratham House as he’d done when they’d set off that morning, he now dreaded it with every fiber of his being.
2
Upon her arrival at Stratham House, Lilli leapt from the family carriage before the footman had a chance to put down the steps. Behind her, Mama and Papa cautioned her to be careful, but Lilli turned a deaf ear. After sitting for several hours, she was eager to stretch her legs.
“When did you get here?” she asked her brother, who must have been waiting for their arrival since he was already descending the front steps. He strode toward her with a grin, his arms wide and ready for the embrace she always gave him when they met.
“Two days ago.” He hugged her against him, holding her tight for a moment before he greeted their parents. “How was your journey?”
“Trouble free,” Papa said. “Provided you discount your sister’s constant pestering. I swear, it doesn’t matter how old she gets. She still can’t be still or silent for more than five minutes.”
This was not said in a critical tone but with warmth. It prompted Mama to chuckle while she smoothed her skirts. Lilli’s cheeks warmed with the pleasure of knowing that while she might be more boisterous than most young ladies her age, her family loved her no matter what.
She eyed Henry with interest. He looked…different. “Is that a new jacket?”
Henry’s lips twitched. “It is indeed.”
“And am I mistaken or is that the most exquisite cravat knot you’ve ever seen?” Papa asked Mama while eyeing Henry’s throat.
“It’s certainly more elaborate than any I’ve seen Henry wear before.” Mama peered at him, her gaze shifting over his perfectly pressed breeches until it settled upon his glossy boots. Her eyebrows lifted as she looked back up. “Your style has always been rather relaxed. Now, there’s a certain dashingness about you.”
“Dashingness?” Lilli queried. “Is that a word?”
“If you must know,” Henry said before Mama could respond, “I’ve acquired a new valet who also carries out the occasional secretarial duties. A bit unusual, I’ll admit, but you know how I hate having too many servants around me. This way, most of my daily needs are met by one man. He’s a very meticulous fellow. Goes by the name of Mr. Henley. I’ll introduce you to him shortly.”
“Well,” Papa said. “I’ll have to thank him when you do, for I daresay your mother is right. Judging from this new appearance of yours, I’ve no doubt you’ll get yourself married in no time at all.”
Lilli couldn’t help but laugh at her brother’s horrified expression.
“You are the eldest,” she murmured to him as they started up the front steps. “It’s only fair you should find yourself wed before I.”
“Not if I can help it,” he whispered back.
As much as she loved pretending indignation, she hoped her brother was right. Beneath her spencer she felt the cool press of the rose quartz crystal she’d worn for nearly a week. It hadn’t led to an unexpected encounter with her future husband yet. The question now was whether or not it would and how long it might take.
No sense in worrying over something she could not control, Lilli decided. She’d simply have to be patient and wait. After having refreshments in the parlor, Lilli changed out of her traveling clothes and set off for a brisk walk. She’d spent her childhood at Stratham House. She loved the property with its wild gardens where roses climbed stone walls and lavender still filled the air with sweet fragrance. It welcomed her with its familiarity and beckoned for her to explore.
Enjoying the crunch of gravel beneath her feet, she strode past the pond to where the woods began. She’d built hideouts in there with Henry many years ago, had climbed a particular oak from which she’d felt as though she could view the entire kingdom, and had chased after squirrels and rabbits until her clothes had been well and truly ruined.
A grin pulled at her lips on that thought. While London might be more conducive to finding her soul mate, it could be horribly stifling. At least here in the countryside she was free to be herself. Within reason, she amended as she headed along a well–travelled path the game keeper used when he rode out to set traps and hunt.
The weather was pleasantly cool without being chilly. Soon the leaves would begin turning various shades of orange, yellow, and red, but for now they retained their lush green color. Flitting from branch to branch, birds chattered to one another while the faint gurgle of water from a nearby brook added a soothing rhythm.
Upon reaching the tell–tale roots of an uprooted elm, Lilli veered to the right, heading between the foliage of smaller saplings and bushes until she spied her favorite oak. It stood in a clearing, its branches reaching sideways as if attempting to touch other trees.
With the satisfaction born from the deep anticipation of a long desired climb, Lilli quickened her pace. She couldn’t wait to survey the surrounding landscape from ten feet above the ground.
Whistling a merry tune she marched ahead and had almost arrived at her destination when the ground disappeared beneath her right foot.
A gasp burst from between her lips. It transformed into a startled yelp as her leg sank farther into the hole, causing her left knee to scrape the ground. Her hands shot out, attempting to break the fall, but the force of her palms connecting with solid ground jolted her bones and twisted her into an awkward position.
Lilli sucked in a breath and gritted her teeth. “Damn and blast.”
Palms flat on the ground, she leaned forward, hefted her weight onto the left side of her body, and tried to pull her leg free.
Her foot didn't budge.
“Bloody hell.” She scowled at the ground. Where on earth had this hole come from? It hadn’t been here on her previous visit. Panting, she made another series of attempts to free herself only to realize that it was no use.
