Not Always a Saint Read Online Free PDF Page B

realized.
    â€œI’ll take a quick look at these letters to see if there’s anything urgent.” Kirkland lifted the missives from a side table, but nodded toward the stairs. “Follow the music.”
    Daniel had once spoken the same words to Kirkland, and for the same reason: to find Laurel. Glad Kirkland was giving him time for a private greeting, he ascended the steps quietly, examining his surroundings.
    On his brief previous visit, the house had seemed coolly elegant and unwelcoming, a place of mystery and secrets. Though the furnishings and decoration were little different, the atmosphere had changed. Now the house was warm and welcoming, and not only because afternoon light poured in the windows. The structure reflected its new mistress because Laurel created warmth wherever she went.
    The music room door stood open to the upstairs corridor. He stepped inside and found Laurel at the keyboard of a magnificent Broadwood piano that was twin to the one in their Bristol house.
    Laurel’s eyes were closed as she played one of her favorite Beethoven sonatas from memory, her fingers sliding expertly over the keys. She didn’t wear mourning black for their parents. Understandable, given that they’d disowned her.
    When she finished the sonata, Daniel said softly, “I’ve missed having music flowing through the house.”
    â€œDaniel!” His sister spun on the bench and rose to greet him, glowing with Madonna warmth. She had never looked lovelier.
    When she hugged him, she had to lean forward a little because of the expanding curve of her waistline. “I’ve missed you so much!”
    â€œAs I’ve missed you.” His hug was swift but careful before he stepped back and scanned her with a physician’s eyes. “You’re feeling well?”
    â€œWonderful! I’ve passed the stage of feeling exhausted and ill. I suspect that I’m close to the end of the buoyant and energetic phase.” Laurel grinned. “Soon I’ll start waddling and counting the days till I meet this baby in the open air.”
    Daniel smiled fondly. “A joyous day indeed. Will Kirkland mind if it’s a girl?”
    Laurel spread her palm on her abdomen. “James swears all that matters is that the baby and I are healthy.”
    Daniel agreed. Childbirth was not without risks and Laurel was nearing thirty, rather old for a first child. “You have a good midwife?”
    â€œTwo of them! The wife of one of James’s friends is an experienced midwife, and she’s been very helpful. She probably won’t be in London when the baby arrives, but she introduced me to a woman whom she recommends highly.”
    â€œI’d like to talk to the one who will be here when the baby arrives.”
    â€œDon’t think you can intimidate Mrs. Granger,” Laurel said with a laugh. “She knows her business as well as you know yours. But enough about me. How are you coping with your unwelcome ennoblement?”
    Trust Laurel to understand. “I keep hoping there’s been an error and that some other fellow who will appreciate the honor is the true heir,” Daniel said ruefully.
    â€œI fear not. Mr. Hyatt, the Romayne lawyer, visited me with the family tree in case I knew any other sprigs that might stand closer to the late Lord Romayne, but there was no one. You’re trapped, Daniel. But once you become accustomed, you’ll find there are advantages.”
    â€œKirkland said as much,” Daniel said dryly. “I haven’t found them yet.”
    â€œYou’ll have more money for good works. I’ve been having a lovely time spending Kirkland’s money on my favorite causes.” She studied his expression thoughtfully. “Are you thinking of looking for a wife? This would be a good time to consider doing so.”
    He gave her a half smile. “You’ve always been good at reading my mind. A wife would indeed be