The Lady Must Choose: A Seabrook Family Saga, #3

This book is dedicated to my sister, Karen Murray Gomer. You are my best friend and always have been. I’m at a loss for words to describe all you have done and continue to do for me and mine. You are the most generous and loving person I know. You make me proud to call you sister. I love you!!!!!

I want to thank my husband, Michael and my four sons, Shawn, Matt, Danny and Joey for all your support over the years. My mother, Alberta Murray and my sister, Karen Gomer, for always being there for me. Beth Nugent for being my best supporter and spreading the word about my books. I owe you big time! Thank you to my editor, Judy Roth. To all my friends at RIRW, thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Chapter One

England 1818

The sound of water slapping the side of the boat, along with the constant swaying, had Lady Isabella Seabrook wishing she could forget the events of the day. But really, how could she, when she sat on the floor of the Marquess of Newbury’s boat in soaking wet clothing. Close beside her sat her river companion. Another of the Marquess’s saves from the filthy Thames.

"Mr. Spencer, kindly remove your arms from around my waist." Bella forced the words through chattering teeth. No easy task as her throat and lungs ached from all the water she’d swallowed. Water, only God knew what it contained.

Forgive me. I didn’t want to let you go. Afraid I would lose you, Mr. Spencer said through teeth, which chattered along with hers.

Mr. Stuart Spencer was cousin to the Earl of Bridgeton, whom Bella’s sister, Amelia, recently married. And she and Mr. Spencer had a friendship that was a tad unconventional.

"I am not yours to lose."

A gentleman can dream, can he not?

Do as Lady Isabella requests.

Bella snapped her head around to seek out the person belonging to the voice. Myles Fredrickson, Baron Norwich, glared at Spencer from his perch across the boat. When he locked eyes with her he nodded his head ever-so-slightly. Evidently Myles, soaking wet as well, also took the dreadful fall into the Thames and was rescued by Newbury. Thank God he was safe. Bella could not imagine life without him, or Spencer. Her time spent with Spencer was fun and he amused her as friends do. She would value the relationship until the end of time, but her heart didn’t pound inside her chest like it did with Myles. With Myles, it increased to the point it wanted to escape from within her chest and unite with Myles’s heart.

At Myles’s demand, Spencer inhaled deeply and removed his arms from around her waist. Something Bella regretted immediately. Not for wanting his hands on her, but because he brought her warmth. Truth be told, she’d never been held by a man. Under different circumstances she might have enjoyed it. Replace Spencer’s arms with Myles’s and she would enjoy the moment much more.

Bella’s day had begun with family and friends on the river for the opening of Waterloo Bridge. The evening was to conclude at Carlton House, with a ball hosted by Prince George. Everything had gone splendidly, until their boat got rammed by another, causing theirs to lean dangerously to one side, throwing her, Mr. Spencer, Myles, and who knew who else into the muddy river.

She shivered now at the initial shock of hitting the water face first and coming up disoriented and tangled in her numerous clothing. A rather large woman had clung to her the moment she broke free to the surface, dragging her back under. Determined not to die, she struggled to free herself from the woman, only to realize she sank deeper into the water. Terror had seized her, and she screamed beneath the surface, inhaling disgusting river water. Thank God, Mr. Spencer found her and with his strong arms pulled her to the surface and helped her stay afloat. A short time later the marquess, along with his friends, rescued both of them.

So now she sat, in Newbury’s boat, beside Spencer, and opposite Myles, her hands locked together, praying if any other occupants of her family’s boat landed in the water they were found safely. She also prayed for the poor woman who had dragged her under in panic.

After their boat had collided with another, numerous other boats had done the same, throwing many other unprepared souls into the river. Bloodcurdling screams still pierced the air now. She covered her ears with her hands, closed her eyes and cringed.

Lady Isabella. Mr. Spencer reached out and gently pried her hands free. You do not sound or look well.

Forgive me, Bella whispered as her eyes fluttered around the boat, taking in all the people staring wide eyed at them. Oh, how dreadful we must look.

Not dreadful. We resemble drowned rats. Mr. Spencer chuckled. A servant handed him a dry blanket and he unselfishly tucked it around her.

Thank you, she said as she pulled it up to her chin, when what she really wanted to do was bury her face in the soft wool and cry. I can’t believe this happened to us. Do you know if anyone else from our boat landed in the water?

Bella gazed at Spencer and then Myles as they shared a silent look and her heart iced up. She struggled to free her hands from the blanket. When she succeeded she reached out and clutched Spencer’s cool hand with hers. You might as well tell me. I’ll find out eventually.

Before Spencer could answer, Myles spoke between blue trembling lips and worried eyes. Your sister, Lady Bridgeton that I know of, although there may have been others. He paused. I saw both your brothers and Bridgeton go in after her. Do not fret. They will not leave the water without her safely in tow.

Let us pray not. Bella would not relax until she saw Amelia with her own two eyes. Until then, she shivered beneath the blanket, hoping their outing ended soon. How had such a day, full of hope and happiness and celebration, turned so wrong? Every muscle and bone in her body ached. Myles and she had blankets, but poor Spencer did not. Perhaps if the sun shined down on them today, instead of clouds, it would help with the chill. Bella moved closer to Spencer and shared the blanket, although her wet clothes had moistened into the wool. Her nose twitched at the repugnant smell.

Thank you, Spencer mumbled. Soaking wet, Mr. Spencer still cut a fine figure. His black hair hung long and wet over his brow, into his blue-green eyes, adding to his appeal. The man resembled her sister’s husband in many ways. Both men stood tall, had dark hair and chiseled features. The similarities ended with their appearance though. One only had to glimpse into Lord Bridgeton’s eyes to see the pain and suffering he had experienced during his lifetime. Spencer’s eyes sparkled with carefree living.

Spencer had been pursuing her favors, even though Bella had been in love with Myles for years. Myles, as he insisted on being called, was heir to an earldom and one of her brother’s, the Duke of Wentworth’s, best friends. Myles presently looked disapprovingly at her. One could assume it was because she’d shared her blanket with Spencer. Too bad.

Lately, Bella had given up all hope of having her dream of becoming Myles’s wife ever come true. Spencer, early on in the Season, had offered his services in making Myles jealous. For a time it worked. Myles seemed to take afternoon tea with her more as the Season progressed. Spencer also attended. Bella had to admit it was nice having two handsome and prominent gentlemen vying for her attention. If only she knew what held Myles back from asking for her hand? He seemed to genuinely care for her. He even kissed her on the lips once. When she glimpsed into his eyes, though, she saw something hidden deep within them. What did he hide? Something so damaging he couldn’t let himself love?

Stuart Spencer, on the other hand, appeared enamored with her and the guilt ate at her insides. Life would be so much better if she loved Spencer. All she had to do was say the word and he would marry her. At least, she thought he would. He looked at her the way she looked at Myles. Why, oh, why was life so complicated? Next year would be her fourth Season and she would be on the shelf because nobody had a fourth Season without being considered long in the tooth. She had a fortnight until the Season ended, a fortnight to find a husband.

Lady Isabella. The Marquess of Newbury held out his hand, offering his assistance in helping her up. We have docked. I’ve sent word to your brother, the duke, stating you are safe, and I’m escorting you home. My carriage awaits to take you to your family.

Thank you. As Newbury helped her exit his boat, she glanced around looking for Myles and Spencer who had vanished. Where had they disappeared to? She didn’t have time to inquire as Newbury whisked her away and into his carriage so quickly. Now, she found herself sitting in a lovely coach, pulled by two sets of matching pairs. Beside her sat a young maid, who wrapped her in a warm blanket. On the opposite side sat the marquess and a gentleman she did not know, although she recognized him as the man who also helped save her and Spencer from being swallowed up by the Thames.

May I inquire as to Lord Norwich and Mr. Spencer? Bella couldn’t help but wonder where they had gone. She never thanked Spencer properly for helping her while they were in the water. Truthfully, he did more than help her, he saved her life.

I hired a hack to take them home. Do not fret, Lady Isabella, they will suffer no ill will for riding in a hackney coach, the marquess replied as though Myles and Spencer were nothing more than the hired staff. Obviously the marquess did not care for either of them. But why? Sometimes she wondered why she couldn’t have a dull-witted brain like some of the other young ladies her age, instead of the inquisitive one she’d been born with. Life would be so much simpler.

Thank you. I would not want their families worrying about them any more than they probably are.

I understand, the marquess said. I realize this is not a good time for introductions, but I would be remise in my duties if I did not introduce you to my distant cousin. Lady Isabella Seabrook, may I present, Mr. Aaron Bradford, from Massachusetts.

Bella wanted to bury her face beneath the blanket. How dreadful she must look. Instead, she raised her chin high, held out her hand, which trembled from cold or embarrassment she could not be certain which. Mr. Bradford, how nice to make your acquaintance.

Mr. Bradford leaned forward, took her hand in his large one and raised it up. His warm lips caressed her naked knuckles briefly. Oh dear, she forgot she took her wet gloves off and left them in the boat.

Lady Isabella, it is a pleasure to finally meet you. I’ve heard much about you from your brother, Lord Sebastian.

My brother? What did this stranger mean?

Please forgive me. Mr. Bradford leaned back against the seat and smiled. I have you at a disadvantage. I purchased Hamilton Whaling Oil from Lord Sebastian on behalf of your brother, the duke. Once I found a suitable manager to oversee the business on my behalf, I travelled to England to pay my distant cousin, Newbury, a visit. And, of course, I planned on calling on both your brothers.

Bella did not know what to say. Sebastian never discussed business with her. She did not know who he sold Hamilton Whaling Oil to. Obviously to the gentleman who sat in front of her. The man with the friendly smile and intriguing accent.

I’m quite certain my brother will be pleased to see you again, you must stop by for tea. Bella hoped she spoke the truth. One never knew with her brother.

Yes, thank you. I will, Mr. Bradford replied. As the carriage came to a halt, he pushed the curtain aside and peered out the window. I do believe I see your brother now.

Bella leaned forward, looked out the now open door, and saw her family home. Wentworth and Sebastian stood on the front steps both looking anxious and tired. Indeed, you do.

Wentworth rushed forward and nudged the coachman aside. Bella. He wrapped his arms around her waist and hugged her close. You scared ten years off my life. You’re freezing and soaking wet. We must get you inside.

As he escorted her up the front stairs, he looked back. Newbury, I must thank you properly for saving my sister. My butler will see you to my study for refreshments.

Mother and Emma are beside themselves with worry, he said as he paused outside her chambers. I expect they will be in to see you momentarily.

Wait, Bella said in panic. Spencer told me Amelia also fell into the river. I must know how she is? And what about you and Sebastian, you went in to save her? How did you get home so quickly, and get cleaned up?

She’s fine. We are all fine. We saved Amelia with the help of her husband. Her brother smiled a full genuine smile, which he seldom did. To answer your question about how we arrived home so quickly, obviously, my horses are faster than Newbury’s. You must get out of those clothes before you catch a death of a chill.

Chapter Two

Myles’s body trembled and his teeth chattered as the hack drove through the crowded streets of London. He wondered if he looked as miserable as Spencer did, who sat opposite him, snuggled deep inside a blanket shivering violently. No doubt he did. Myles didn’t think his body had ever hurt the way it did now. Bloody bugger, it was summertime. It shouldn’t be so cold. Of course, one really shouldn’t go swimming in the Thames either.

Part of the chill might be from panic and shock at witnessing Bella tumbling out of the boat. He’d yelled her name and tried to reach her to no avail. After he lost sight of her in the river, his body froze in disbelief and shock. Fortunately it didn’t last. Without another thought to his own wellbeing, he jumped into the water. He had to save her. Life would never be the same without her in it. Terror gripped his heart when he could not find her as more and more bodies fell into the river making his quest impossible.

When Myles, his body limp with cold and exhaustion labored to stay afloat, hands reached down to pluck him out of the water. He fought them. Rationally, he knew he would drown if he didn’t give in to the person trying to help him. But the irrational part of him didn’t want to give up the fight to find Bella.

When he hit the bottom of the boat he struggled to breathe as his lungs were full of water. Someone smacked him on the back and he coughed up what he thought was half the river. Thank you, he choked out.

Someone pulled his limp body up into a sitting position and wrapped a blanket around his shoulders. Thank you, he said again. Damn, but his throat burned. When he finally opened his eyes, whom did he see sitting across the boat from him? Bella, with Spencer’s arms around her, consoling her. Half his heart calmed knowing she was safe. The other half accelerated and wanted to go over there, drag Spencer away from her and pummel him with his fists. Not that he could do that. At the present time he was as weak—well—as weak as he’d ever been. Too weak for anything requiring physical use of his body.

Then he realized he didn’t care who helped and comforted Bella. The only thing that mattered was she was safe and unharmed. Which brought him back to the other occupant of the hired hack. A hackney hack? Really? He’d get Newbury back for this. Although this was probably Newbury getting back at him for the nasty tricks he played on him when they attended Eton together. Still, Myles would eventually get even. Would he ever outgrow his competitive nature?

Lovely outing wasn’t it? he remarked with a shoulder shrug, then winced. Was there any part of his body not stiff and sore?

Wonderful, replied Spencer as he struggled to keep his blanket around his shoulders. I can’t think of a better time I’ve had recently, can you?

Against his wishes Myles found himself laughing. He might be jealous of Spencer. And yes, he could finally admit that to himself. He was also confused because Bella and Spencer had a relationship he didn’t understand. Actually, I’ve had better days. Tell me, how did you and Lady Isabella come to be in Newbury’s boat?

I fell into the river right after her but lost sight of her for a time. Then she appeared out of nowhere. I tried to keep her afloat. Thankfully Newbury pulled us in. Spencer looked at him and snorted. Just my luck to be pulled into the same boat as you.

What have you got against me?

You very well know what?

From my perspective, you’re doing fine with the lady in question. She seems quite taken with you, Myles said rather smartly.

That’s your opinion. What I observe is a lady standing in the shadows, hoping and praying the gentleman of her dreams notices her.

Please don’t insult both of us by thinking I don’t notice her. Myles’s eyes narrowed on his opponent. And yes, he had to consider Spencer his opponent.

You toy with her favors, Spencer said quite angrily. One day you’re dancing with her and giving her your undivided attention. The next it’s as though she’s not even alive.

Not true. Or was it? Perhaps he was guilty of what Spencer accused him of. However, Myles would not give Spencer the satisfaction of knowing the reasoning behind his actions. Even if he wanted to, he could not explain himself. Part of him wanted to marry Bella, but the other part of him still hoped the woman he fell in love