The Daughter of an Earl Read Online Free PDF Page B

opinion, comprises all that is good and proper in the world.”
    â€œDoes Brett have any idea where your cousin has gone?” Julia said. “Or why he has disappeared?”
    Miranda frowned. “I do not think so, but I have no doubt he will find him.”
    â€œIf Drew is in London, I do not see why we cannot accompany Brett into the city,” Melody said. “If Julia and Emily agree, I cannot see how his defenses can withstand a four-woman siege. The odds are against him.” She beamed.
    Emily straightened, inspiration seizing her. “Actually, your first idea is better. Removing the mountain from the equation altogether will make your journey a far smoother one. And I know how to do it.”
    â€œReally?” Melody’s eyes widened.
    Emily ignored Julia, who was looking at her as if she had sprouted a second head. Miranda’s words had given her an epiphany.
    What if Brett is not my problem, but my solution?
    The man was good at resolving difficult situations, accomplishing what he set his mind to, and persuading people to do his bidding.
    He was also slick as a cardsharp, and cardsharps always won.
    She had vowed to consort with the devil to achieve her goal. Satan appeared in many guises. If he posed as a shrewd, handsome American businessman for this sojourn, so be it. She was a woman of her word.
    She would get Brett Curtis to assist her.
    In return, she would escort his sisters to London and to shop along Oxford Street, liberating Brett to search for his wayward cousin.
    To set her plan in motion, she needed allies. Melody was right. Brett might be able to fend off two women, but four? Well, then it would be like trying to change the direction of salmon en route to spawn, or in this case, to shop.
    â€œI would love to offer you my services as an escort in London. You can stay with us at Keaton House during your visit. Father has business in the city and has been badgering me to accompany him. What better reason to do so than to visit Madame Duchard’s?”
    Emily did not glance Julia’s way after noting her parted lips and wide eyes. Julia must think Emily’s two heads had sprouted horns, so stunned did her sister appear.
    Melody clapped her hands in glee. “That is a marvelous plan.”
    Miranda’s brow furrowed. “Lady Emily, perhaps you should confer with the earl before extending—”
    â€œMy father will be absolutely delighted to have you join us.” She waved away Miranda’s concerns. “He has been worried about my not getting out enough and encouraging me to enjoy the Season. I have a tendency to rusticate in thecountry more than I should, so a city excursion will alleviate my father’s worries about my growing roots and sprouting leaves.”
    Once upon a time, she had relished the never-ending whirl of balls, garden parties, and elaborate dinners. Since Jason’s death, Emily no longer felt as if she belonged there. Did not know if she ever would—or if she could summon the energy to try. But to obtain the answers she sought and for Jason’s sake, she would force herself to return—and more difficult, pretend to belong.
    â€œIt is a grand offer. I do not know how to thank you. Brett will be indebted to you,” Melody said. “After all, you are sparing him an evisceration at the gallows.”
    Emily hoped their brother shared their gratitude, but she had no idea how the man would respond. He was an American, and nor did he behave as one expected. He could be outspoken, irreverent, and unpredictable.
    She hoped the positive attributes upon which she was counting overrode these problematic ones.
    â€œThis is a generous offer,” Miranda said. “If you are quite certain your father would approve, we would be honored to accept.” Her worried gaze drifted to Julia.
    â€œAs Emily says, I am certain Father will agree to the plan and the company.” Julia hastened to assure them,