Read Online A Phantom Affair by Jo Ann Ferguson - Free Book Online Page A

Ellen waved Corey to silence, although it was unnecessary. No one could hear him save her.
    A man, who was not much taller than Fenton, walked toward Ellen. He possessed an aura of serenity that contrasted with Corey’s sudden gasp. Wanting to ask what was amiss, Ellen could only smile.
    The man stopped. “Miss Dunbar?”
    â€œYes.”
    â€œI am Armstead. I was my lord’s man.”
    â€œWhat can I do for you, Armstead?” Her voice was colder than she wanted, but she was too aware of Corey listening.
    He struggled to smile and failed, his face gaining years as his wrinkles deepened with sorrow. “I heard you sat with him at his last breath, Miss Dunbar. They kept me out, but I am glad you were there.”
    â€œI recall so little of that.” She touched her head. “My brain was muddled.”
    â€œI understand. I simply wished to tell you that I am glad my lord was not alone.”
    Corey said, “Tell him how much I have treasured his years of service.”
    â€œI am sure,” she said to the distraught man, “Lord Wulfric treasured your attentive service over so many years.”
    â€œHow kind of you to say that, Miss Dunbar.”
    â€œWhat Lord Wulfric would say himself if he were able.”
    Corey grinned and nodded. “You are doing a famous job with this, Ellen.”
    â€œThank you, again.” Armstead squared his shoulders and smiled sadly. “I wished to speak to you before I left.”
    â€œLeave?” Corey shouted, but only Ellen’s ears rang. “Where are you going? Ellen, ask him where he’s going!”
    She flashed Corey a frown, but obeyed.
    â€œMr. Wolfe—excuse me, Lord Wulfric has granted me leave to visit my family in Manchester for a few weeks,” the old man replied. “My sister has long wished for me to spend some time with her.”
    â€œSpare me another frown,” Corey said, moving to stand beside Armstead so Ellen could not avoid looking at him. “He never mentioned that to me. I would have gladly allowed him some time to take a flying visit to see his sister. He even could have had longer, although I must own I was grateful for Armstead’s help with more than my wardrobe. If Lorenzo had half a brain, he would glean every bit of advice Armstead can offer before he sends the man on his way.”
    Ellen twisted her fingers through the ribbons on her parasol. “Have a good sojourn, Armstead. I know Lord Wulfric will be pleased to see you upon your return.”
    â€œYes,” he said, but his tone suggested he might stay in Manchester.
    â€œDamn!” Corey’s hands fisted at his sides. “Persuade him to come back, Ellen.”
    â€œI shall leave after the funeral services tomorrow, Miss Dunbar,” the old man went on, “but I wanted to speak with you before I left. Good day.”
    Ellen ignored Corey, who continued to demand she tell Armstead to return to Wolfe Abbey, as she bid Armstead a good day. As soon as the valet was out of earshot, she whirled to face Corey and nearly fell. She gripped the banister to keep herself on her feet. “I am fine,” she said, waving him aside.
    â€œWhy didn’t you tell him what I told you?”
    â€œHow was I to explain how I know these things?”
    His smile was cold. “You have been doing well making up bangers so far.”
    â€œYou are beastly.”
    â€œIs that any way to speak of the dead?”
    She stared at him. When a slow smile spread across his face, she could not help laughing. “You are beastly, you know.”
    â€œWho is beastly, dear?” Marian hurried into the foyer. “Is someone causing you trouble? You need only to speak to Lorenzo, and he will be certain it is dealt with in lickety-split time.”
    â€œNo one.” Ellen took a step up the stairs. “Just talking to myself.”
    â€œCalling yourself beastly?”
    â€œJust this blasted