The Sign of Death by Callie Hutton (children's books read aloud .TXT) 📗

perhaps you are feeling the lack of something in your life, Amy.” Aunt Margaret straightened and reached out her hand. “However, it is time for us to leave for Lady Wethington’s dinner party.”

Amy accepted her aunt’s hand and climbed to her feet. She turned and blew a kiss at the box. “Sleep well, little family.”

When they arrived at the entrance hall, Stevens was helping Papa and Michael into their greatcoats. He performed the same service for Amy and Aunt Margaret.

Once they were all settled in the carriage and on their way, Papa looked over at Amy. “Michael and I will be leaving Monday morning for our return to London.”

Amy was surprised to realize she would miss having them living with her. Although Papa was a little annoying about what he would and would not allow her to do, it had been nice having the entire family there for breakfast and most dinners.

“Have you completed your work, then?” Aunt Margaret asked.

“Yes. We have put in the paperwork to purchase two small businesses here in Bath. We both feel they are excellent choices for our portfolio.”

“I will miss you, Papa.” For heaven’s sake, Amy could hear the wistfulness in her voice. She hadn’t lived under the same roof as her papa and brother for more than a couple of weeks at a time in her whole life.

He reached over and patted her hand. At least it wasn’t her head again. “Well, daughter, there is the possibility that we will be returning to Bath in the future.”

“What do you mean?”

“As I get older, I find the hustle and bustle of London doesn’t appeal to me so much anymore.”

Amy straightened. “You mean you might move here permanently?”

“Do I hear a bit of fright in your voice, daughter?” Papa grinned at her.

“Um, maybe a tad. But I would love to have you here in Bath.” Amy turned to Michael. “Are you moving too?”

“I’ve not decided yet. Since I’m not old and tired”—he grinned at Papa—“I’m not ready to abandon the life, but there is always the possibility. If I find something worth moving for.”

“Or perhaps someone worth moving for?” Aunt Margaret said.

The rest of the ride was taken up with ideas for homes to purchase, since Papa didn’t want to permanently move into the townhouse Amy and Aunt Margaret called home, though he actually owned the dwelling.

Michael glanced out the window. “It appears we’ve arrived.”

The four of them reached the front door just as Weston opened the door. “Good evening, my lords, my ladies. Allow me to take your garments.”

He helped them all out of their coats and directed them to the drawing room. “The rest of the group has gathered there.”

When Amy entered the room, the first person she saw was William. He looked especially splendid in dark trousers, a stark-white shirt and cravat, and a colorful waistcoat under his dark-blue jacket. He broke away from the O’Neill sisters and Mr. Davidson and Mr. Rawlings. She noticed that Mr. Colbert and Lady Wethington were deep in conversation separate from the group.

It appeared they were the last of the guests to arrive.

“Good evening, Amy, Lord Winchester, Lord Davenport, Lady Margaret.” William reached out for Amy’s hand and squeezed it. “I would like to speak with you for a moment.” He looked up at Papa. “May I have your permission to escort Lady Amy to the library for a moment?”

Papa’s face lit up. “Yes, yes. Of course.”

Amy’s heart began to thump as William led her out of the room and down the corridor to the library. “What do you want?” She licked her dry lips.

“This will only take a moment.”

“Is there something you want to show me?” She was becoming more nervous by the second.

“Um, perhaps.” He grinned at her as he opened the door. He bowed and waved toward the room. “My lady?”

“Is this about the murder investigation?” Lord, was that her voice squeaking like that?

“No.”

“What is it, then?”

He tapped her on the nose. “In a moment, sweetheart.”

Damnation, now was William going to pick up on that annoying habit? That took away some of her anxiety and replaced it with irritation. “Do not tap me on the nose. I am not a child.”

William grinned and turned his palms up. “My apologies.”

Amy sniffed and walked past him to the window, then turned. “What do you want?”

“Come here, Amy.” He held out his hand.

“William …”

“Come here.”

She sighed and walked over to him. He led her to the settee and urged her to sit. Then he did precisely what she was afraid he was going to do. He got down on one knee in front of her and took both of her hands in his.

“William, I’m not sure …”

“I am.” He took a deep breath. “Lady Amy Lovell, will you do me the great honor of becoming my wife?”

Good grief, her eyes filled with tears. Whatever was the matter with her? “Um, I wasn’t expecting this.” Lie number one. “I thought we were going to talk about the murder.” Lie number two. “I’m not sure my papa would approve.” Lie number three.

She considered him for a moment, an idea popping into her head. “Since you brought it up, however …”

“Yes?”

“On one condition.”

He raised his brows. “Only one? I am getting off easy.”

William and Amy returned to the drawing room to the expectant looks on most of the guests’ faces. He held up her left hand to show off the beautiful diamond-and-ruby ring he’d slipped on her finger. “She said yes.”

They were immediately surrounded by family and friends, all offering congratulations and well wishes.

“We must plan the wedding,” Aunt Margaret said. “How soon do you want it?” She turned to William. Apparently it was assumed that he didn’t want to wait too long to experience all that marriage had to offer.

“I leave that up to my betrothed.” There. That should give him a few points with his bride-to-be.

Lord Winchester wandered in William’s direction and slapped him on the back. “Welcome to the family, son. You are marrying the