The Whisper Of Wings Read Online Free PDF Page B

his housekeeper. She seemed so thrilled with his decision, almost too thrilled. Everyone seemed so attached to the girl already, even....
    He brought his thoughts to an abrupt halt. There were far more important things to think about than that pitiful girl-woman. From now on, she was in Mrs. Avery's capable hands. He would get back to his own business. Let everyone else simper over her.
    Dr. Martin studied the other man. He had the distinct impression that Mr. Standeven would do what he pleased, with or without his approval.
    "A hospital would be more convenient for you," he pointed out.
    Christopher came back to the present and turned to stare at the doctor. For a second, he had forgotten that the man was even there, didn't quite know what the devil the man was talking about. When he did remember, he felt a slight prick of annoyance. He didn't need a reminder of what was convenient for him. That was all a matter of perspective.
    "Nonsense. She will do just as well here. Perhaps even better."
    "True enough. She did seem frightened. Even a bit disoriented. But she was very comfortable with Mrs. Avery. I see no real reason why she shouldn't stay, as long as you don't mind the inconvenience."
    "I assure you it will be no inconvenience."
    There was no doubt about the tone of Mr. Standeven's voice, or the glitter of warning in his eyes—he seemed a bit affronted that anyone would even suggest any inconvenience—and Dr. Martin didn't dare to argue further. It was settled. The girl would stay.
    An hour later, the family, along with Dr. Martin, gathered at the dinner table. Christopher took his seat at the head of the table, while Gerald sat a few chairs down at his right. Mrs. Avery hovered nearby, her face pinched with uncertainty.
    Christopher glanced down the table and noticed an extra place setting. Mrs. Avery met his eyes with a questioning gaze. Clearly, she wanted to stay. It was not unusual for Mrs. Avery to dine with them on occasion, but never when there was a guest. Of course, he didn't have to guess at why she was making such an uncharacteristic request. He already knew.
    Agnes nervously folded her hands in front of her, waiting for his decision. She so much wanted to be a part of this particular discussion, and she didn't relish the idea of leaning in at the door to catch a few broken phrases here and there. Her aging back simply wasn't up to such nonsense anymore. Still, she would do what she must to find out more about that pitiful girl now securely ensconced in one of the guest rooms. And if Mr. Standeven didn't like it...well then, he would just have to stew. She was determined to be involved, even if it meant risking his wrath.
    When he finally gave a nod of his head, so slight that it was barely noticeable, she sagged with relief, a hand going to her bosom in silent thankfulness.
    Christopher turned to acknowledge Dr. Martin's curious gaze. The man had been studying him intently all the while. Christopher offered no explanation for the exchange between himself and his housekeeper. His domestic practices were none of the doctor's concern.
    Dr. Martin glanced away, then gave a little embarrassed harrumph as he fiddled with his cutlery. A more dynamically powerful man he'd never met before in his entire life, a man of intensely English sophistication and breeding. So much so that it was rather surprising that he was allowing a servant to dine at the family table. But it was obvious that Mr. Standeven did not like to be questioned about anything. That was clear enough by the boldly stated assurance in everything he did. Dr. Martin felt foolish for having stared, for having the effrontery to even wonder in silence at the way Mr. Standeven ran his household.
    Once Mrs. Avery was settled at the table, Christopher unfolded his table napkin and positioned it in his lap. Gerald looked like he would burst from curiosity. Christopher had been under the merciless eyes of his son ever since entering the dining room, and he