Deborah Camp by My Wild Rose Read Free Book Online Page B

him.
    “Regina, I—”
    “Is everything all right down there?” Lu called from upstairs.
    Regina went back inside. “Yes, and it’s nothing to worry about.”
    Lu stepped into the light at the top of the staircase. “Are you sure? Should I come down?”
    “No, Lu. Everything is fine. It’s just a disorderly drunk. I’m taking care of him.”
    “Okay. Call if you need me.”
    Regina listened for Lu’s fading footsteps before going back out onto the porch. Theo had hoisted Jack to his feet and was holding him upright. Jack’s head lolled on his neck, but he was coming around enough to put one foot in front of the other.
    “This is so good of you, Mr. Dane,” Regina said. “I don’t know how to thank you.”
    “I do. You can call me Theo.” He quirked one brow, waiting.
    Regina surrendered with a smile. “Thank you, Theo.”
    “You’re more than welcome, Regina. I’m glad I was around to help you out of this jam.” He slanted one of Jack’s arms across his shoulders and grabbed him around the waist. “Let’s go, partner. There’s a warm, dry bed waiting for you.”
    “Good night, Theo, and thanks again.”
    “Good night, Regina.” He helped Jack off the porch, then glanced back once, his understanding smile making Regina think twice about him.
    Maybe he’s not so bad, she considered. He didn’t have to offer his help tonight. He could have simply stood back and let her handle Jack. She was awfully glad he’d taken over, however, because she’d never been good at handling Jack. Her mother had been verbally abusive, but Jack struck out with his fists.
    Theo had arrived in a hansom cab. The driver helped him pile Jack under the canopy. Theo climbed in beside Jack and the driver took his place on the elevated bench. The two horses’hooves thumped against the packed earth and the carriage rolled away.
    Regina went back inside and bolted the door. She rested her forehead against it and sent up a prayer of thanks for Theodore Dane’s timely intervention.
    “Regina, did he hit you?”
    Turning, Regina watched Lu Beck descend the stairs, worry clearly evident on her pale, round face. “Yes, but it’s nothing.”
    “Oh, dear.” Lu rushed to her and cradled the stinging side of Regina’s face in her warm palm. “I should have come downstairs.”
    “I’m glad you didn’t. It would only have made matters worse.”
    “I heard that other man. Who was he?”
    “Theodore Dane, the lawyer. An angel of mercy tonight.” Regina laughed softly. “He’s going to take Jack to a hotel and let him sleep it off there.”
    “That’s good. You poor thing.” Lu took one of Regina’s hands between both of hers. “Let’s brew some tea.”
    “I would love that.” Regina released a long, shaky breath. “I admit Jack gave me a fright. I was so afraid he’d storm up the stairs and hurt you or Annie.”
    “I knew I shouldn’t have come here. I’ve brought more trouble on you, and that’s not fair. You’ve faced so much of it in your life already.”
    “Don’t worry about me, Lu. I’m pleased that you came to me.” Regina sat at the kitchen table, her knees suddenly weak, and let Lu prepare the tea. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
    “Many times I have regretted marrying Jack, but then I remember that the marriage gave me Annie and you. I’m so thankful to have you as my sister-in-law, Regina. You’re so strong and brave.”
    “I’m not,” Regina said, feeling unworthy of such high praise.
    “Did you tell Mr. Dane we’re related?”
    “No.” Regina touched a fingertip to her tender mouth. “I told him Jack was my half brother, but I didn’t mention you or Annie.”
    “You can tell him, if you want.”
    Regina shrugged. “It’s none of his business.” An inner voice chided her.
Secrets
. Keeping them had been a common practice during her younger years. It was a hard habit to break. “Maybe I’ll tell him later if the subject comes up.” She sighed. “But I doubt that