Page 36 of The Captain Claims His Temptress

As she hoped, her aunt almost allayed her doubts.

“Hugo Adams said that Stephen is not to be trusted and that he disappears for long periods of time.”

Aunt Henrietta leaned across the table. “Do you not see the way Hugo looks at you? He is scheming behind Stephen’s back so that he can have you for himself.”

Her aunt was wise, and Hugo’s gaze was quite lecherous.

Lady Saxton’s index finger tapped the table so hard, she was lucky she didn’t injure the unfortunate digit. “Pierre does have Sir Saxton’s ear and I do not understand why. No one, French, British, or American, should listen to a word he says.”

“I knew you would make me feel better. Do you believe Sir Saxton will change his mind if you act as a chaperone?”

Aunt Henrietta’s eyes lit up and she stopped abusing her finger to hold it in the air. “I have a plan.”

Maddie folded her hands before her, and eagerly awaited the details.

“We must get your uncle away from those two fools he seeks advice from so that we have his undivided attention.”

Since Maddie did not hold either man in high regard, that was fine by her.

“Then we shall tell Sir Saxton that we plan to spy on Captain Eaton.”

Maddie gasped. “Whatever do you mean?”

Although no one was present to overhear, Aunt Henrietta leaned close to whisper. “My husband spends all of his efforts on his business, so we shall tell him we are entertaining Stephen to help protect his company. I will suggest that I act as a chaperone, and together, we will discover what Stephen is up to.”

In her indignation, Maddie practically squawked. “But Aunt Henrietta, he is honorable, and I am of the opinion that he is not up to anything. Hugo and Pierre are the men with ulterior motives.”

“I am of the same opinion. However, this plan will allow you to spend time with Stephen with your uncle’s blessing. In their attempt to keep you and Stephen apart, Hugo and Pierre have provided the perfect opportunity for you to spend time with him. And the captain will not be able to help himself. He will fall madly in love with you because you, my dear, are delightful and charming.”

The prospect of spending time with Stephen was dizzying. “Do you truly believe it will work?”

“We simply have to keep Sylvia and Arabella Beaumont from causing drama. Sylvia is my friend but my, oh my, she can be difficult.”

Maddie swallowed. “When I arrived, you warned me about my reputation. I am afraid I have been quite bold with Stephen.” Brazen in fact.

“You must be careful so we will be sure you are chaperoned. But I want you to find love.” She sighed. “Did you know my little Caroline died when she was a baby?”

Maddie had heard about the tragic death of her infant cousin whom her aunt had mourned for decades.

Aunt Henrietta swiped at her watery eyes. “I want you to stay close to me and I want to help raise my great-nieces and nephews. Now, let us go see Sir Saxton.”

Maddie leaped from her chair to embrace Henrietta Saxton, the warmest woman of her acquaintance. “You have always been like a second mother to me.”

Aunt Henrietta stood and hugged Maddie to her bosom. Then, they linked arms and made their way to Sir Saxton’s study.

Aunt Henrietta did not even bother knocking, she strolled right into her husband’s office, interrupting the conversation he was having with his solicitor. “Elias, we must speak to you alone. ’Tis of the utmost importance.”

“You can speak openly in front of me,” Hugo said.

The odious man did not seem to understand the dislike Maddie had for him because he smiled at her as if they were old friends. Since ladies could not punch conniving men in the jaw, Maddie simply glowered at him.

“I have your family’s best interests at heart,” he said.

Uncle Elias might fall for the man’s insincere flattery, but Maddie was not gullible. “I shall come back when I may have a private audience.”

Hugo’s mouth fell open and Uncle Elias bristled.

Aunt Henrietta placed her hands on her ample hips. “Madalene, stay. Sir Saxton, I will speak to you now. Good day, Mr. Adams.”