A Simple Deception

IX

"Keep in mind, Eragon, that no one thinks himself a villain, and few make decisions they think are wrong. A person may dislike his choice, but he will stand by it because, even in the worst circumstances, he believes that it was the best option available to him at the time." Christopher Paolini

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IX.

"I am beginning to think that your mother does not know that we are here," Claire worried as she pushed Jackie along in her carriage through the entrance to Hyde Park.

Susanna had told her sister-in-law the whitest of lies to ensure that she would accompany her. "Mama knows I went to call on you," replied Susanna. "And what is wrong with taking my sweet niece on an outing on a fine summer's day?"

Susanna kept her eyes peeled as she watched out for Mr Whitfield. The faire was still about and plenty of people had flocked to the park that morning.

"Susanna," protested Claire, reaching out for Susanna's forearm to stop her.

Susanna turned around and looked into Claire's bright eyes. Her dark brows were furrowed with worry.

"Lord Bertram called upon me this morning," Susanna confessed, immediately seeing the disapproval on Claire's face at the mention of the man. "His hand was injured, and he told me that he had assaulted a negro man. From what he said, I believe it to be Mr Whitfield, the rider we saw at the faire."

Claire's lips parted with shock. "Assaulted him? Why?"

"Because Mr Whitfield has the nerve to look different," Susanna practically growled. "No," she stopped herself. "No, Lord Bertram behaved in such a way because his mind is too small to appreciate that the world is bigger than this city, and the people in it. It frightens him, and that makes him a coward." Susanna exhaled. "I have to know that Mr Whitfield is alright. Please, do not betray me to Mama."

"Susanna, I would never," promised Claire, "though I do not need to give your mother any more reason to disapprove of me," she added quietly.

Susanna practically scoffed. "Claire, don't be ridiculous. You gave Mama a precious, perfect grandchild. She will worship the ground you walk on." Susanna glanced over her sleeping niece in the carriage, before her eyes returned forward.

The two women continued on into the park, making their way to the area that had been reserved for Diego's display. To Susanna's shock, it was practically dismantled already, with only a few labouring men remaining to clear away the tents and props. None of them were Mr Whitfield.

"Oh, no," whispered Susanna. "How ever will I find him?"

"Certainly, all is not lost," assured Claire. "We shall ask one of the workers. Or I shall. I don't suppose it would be right for you to approach a man without an introduction. I suspect this was why you wanted me along on this little excursion."

"I wanted you because I trust you," insisted Susanna. "You're my friend, Claire, and I haven't many of those."

"My lady, good morning."

Susanna recognised the familiar voice behind her and turned to see the rounded face of Mr Leonard Bishop. His brown eyes were particularly delighted as he smiled warmly at her. Susanna breathed a sigh of relief in seeing Mr Whitfield's performing companion.

"Good morning, Mr Bishop," replied Claire. "I am glad to have run into you. Please allow me to introduce my brother's wife, Lady Claire Beresford." Susanna could not recall if they had been introduced at the faire.

Mr Bishop bowed politely to Claire. "My pleasure, milady." He turned his attention back to Susanna. "My absolute pleasure." He grinned.

"Is Mr Whitfield alright?" Susanna asked anxiously. "I have reason to believe he was assaulted last night, and I must know if he was injured."