Free Always His Earl by Cheryl Dragon Page A

head.
    “You’ve been here many nights, my lady.” Mrs. Blake walked in and set a tray over her lap.
    “Days? We’re still in London? Oh God. He’ll be coming for me.” She grabbed Basil’s hand.
    “He won’t get to you. I’ll kill him first.” Basil kissed her bandaged hand. George grabbed his brother’s shoulder. “Basil, stop.”
    “Will there be anything else, my lord?” Mrs. Blake asked.
    “No, thank you. Go to bed, Mrs. Blake. Lady Claire will need you more tomorrow.” George waved her off.
    Basil resumed his argument the second the door closed. “Someone has to stop that lunatic Philips. The law may be on his side, but we weren’t raised to let women, children, or animals be beaten to death. Our family is not like theirs. Old man Harris ruined everything.”
    “If she were dead, Philips would be in prison. I promise you that. We can try to smuggle her out of the country when she’s better.” George paced the room.
    “I’m sorry; I didn’t think about the position I’d be putting you in. I just wanted to go home. I knew Myles was returning. Somehow, I had this dream of moving back to where I grew up. Going back to the times before the navy and the marriage ruined our lives. My father ruined so much. I was a fool. I have to go back,” Claire said between small bites of food.
    “No, you’re not going back,” Myles said firmly. “If the doctor approves of moving you when he sees you tomorrow, we’ll make plans to get you out of the country.”
    “I agree. We can’t be too obvious, but sooner is better. I just don’t want to risk her health,” George said.
    “He’ll never stop.” Claire took a sip of water and leaned back into the pillows.
    “Are you tired?” Basil asked.
    “A bit. Don’t go.” She held Basil’s hand. “Please don’t challenge Philips. I can’t stand the thought of losing you.”
    Myles looked at George, who shook his head. George cleared his throat. “I think
    Harris and I need to discuss some things in private. I’ll send Minnie in for the night.”
    “You think I’d take advantage of her in this state? I love her; I’m not an animal. I want her properly,” Basil said in a hushed voice.
    “In that case, you won’t mind a chaperone, and you will not challenge Philips, no matter what happens,” George replied.
    “No, I won’t. Because Claire asked me not to.” Basil’s stare challenged his brother.
    “She’s my sister, Basil. If you don’t respect your family, respect me. I had no control over being put in the navy. My father disposed of me as cruelly as he did Claire. I won’t let her suffer all her life because of it. You must allow me the chance to set things right.” Myles stood his ground against the younger and emotionally exhausted man. Harris’ honor seemed in tatters and he had to repair his family and their good name.
    “I understand. Philips is no better than your father. We can’t hope fate will strike again. You must act.” Basil turned back to Claire with intent attention.
    Myles steered George out of the room. “He’s hurt.”
    “I know, but he must be sensible or it’ll end in disaster.” George shook his head as they headed to their bedchambers.
    “You don’t need to send in a maid right away. They need some time alone. I don’t doubt Basil’s honor or intentions, especially with Claire so weak.” Myles wanted his sister to have some happiness.
    “I have no intention of sending anyone in there. Claire needs peace and clearly Basil comforts her. Even if he infuriates us.” George rubbed his forehead and tried to smile. “Her health is what matters in the end. What did you mean about not choosing the navy?”
    “We need to put all our cards on the table. Maybe you’re willing to listen now? Please put aside the hate, anger, and hurt and just listen. I think it’s time for an early night.” Myles headed for his bedchamber.
    * * * * *
    G eorge heard Myles’ door close and opened the adjoining chamber door.