Memoirs of Lady Montrose Read Online Free Page B

nodded. His olive complexion had become sallow. Henry’s grip on Helen’s hand tightened in a quick squeeze before he released it and spread his hands on the table, leaning towards their guest.
    “Now, this is what I propose.”
    Mortlock inclined his head, one ear tilted forward to catch Henry’s barely audible proposal.
    “I will hire you as our gardener. We have a large property, which can be developed at the back into a vegetable garden, and the front rose beds need attention. The trees lining our street cause a lot of litter at this time of the year, so there will be plenty for you to do.”
    Along with Mortlock, Helen listened intently, absorbing the details.
    “We have a married couple as staff and their day off is Thursday. I suggest this be the day you do the gardening, and any other work my wife may require of you.”
    ‘Work’ being a euphemism to cover any sexual favours she required. Henry looked very pleased, smug even, and gave her a quick smile before he drew a deep breath, then continued, “I usually go to town on Thursdays and spend the day at my club, unless I’m required at the House of Lords. This will allow you and Lady Helen to spend the day together.” Henry sat back in his chair, a satisfied smile on his face. “Do you agree?”
    “Remuneration? How much am I worth?” Mortlock asked, leaning forward.
    Ah, he is a negotiator as well as a blackmailer . A fizz of fear crawled up her spine and her breath hitched.
    Henry stayed silent for a moment and it looked as if negotiations might break down, but then Henry smiled and she realised he’d thought of all angles.
    “I propose to pay you the going rate for gardeners, taxed and recorded. My accountant will arrange this.” Mortlock opened his mouth to speak but Henry held his hand up to stop him. “However, as you may have extra costs, though God knows what, I will make sure my wife has spare cash on hand.”
    Mortlock inclined his head, remaining silent, perhaps waiting for more information.
    “What you do with the rest of the week is your business. However, while I may recommend you as a gardener to my peers, I shall not be recommending your other services. If you wish to establish a life in this city I would warn you to be very careful of what you say about my wife and me.”
    Christopher Mortlock squirmed in his chair under Henry’s piercing stare and veiled threat.
    “I quite understand, Lord Montrose.”
    “Should I hear a whisper, or see at any time that you have harmed my wife, I will make life very difficult for you.” Henry waved away the waiter who approached. “I have the power and influence to ruin your life, young man. Always keep that in mind.” Henry looked at her. “Is that suitable, my dear? Do you think I’ve covered everything?” He looked so sweet she wanted to kiss him. His kindness knew no limit. How she wished his physical prowess could be restored, then none of this would be necessary.
    “I think so, Henry, but Mr Mortlock has yet to agree.”
    They both looked at Mortlock for an answer. Helen’s heart thudded as if she stood on the edge of a cliff. Her stomach clenched, her lower muscles dragged downward. Was she experiencing suppressed desire, or fear of Mortlock’s refusal?
    “Very suitable thank you, sir. My extra expenses could be one hundred pounds per week. After all, I need lodgings and there may be travel involved.”
    “These are not my problems, Mortlock. You wish to live in London, you sort them out.” With an agreement almost reached, Henry’s tone became dismissive. “I’ve checked on how much you earned in Brighton and they told me what they paid you. You can’t work there again because I have informed them of the breach in their security. Fifty pounds, plus a standard day’s pay as our gardener. Take it or leave it.”
    “I accept.” Mortlock held out his hand for Henry to shake and seal the arrangement, but Henry purposely ignored the outstretched hand and turned to her