Chapter 38: A Glimpse into the Past
The journey to locate Sir Martin Hayes led Eloise and Penelope away from the bustling streets of London to a quieter, more pastoral setting where the city's clamor gave way to the gentle sounds of nature. The serene environment was a stark contrast to the emotional turmoil Eloise felt inside as she grappled with the revelations about Sebastian and the impending meeting with his former lieutenant.
Upon arriving at the orphanage, Eloise and Penelope observed Sir Martin in his element, surrounded by a group of lively children in a makeshift classroom set within a large, sunny room. The children, ranging in age from five to ten, were clearly enamored with their teacher, hanging on his every word and instruction. Martin's gentle manner with the children painted a picture of a man far removed from the harsh realities of war, yet Eloise knew that beneath this peaceful exterior lay the memories of brutal conflicts.
Noticing the two women standing hesitantly at the entrance, Martin excused his young charges, sending them off to their next activity with a warm, lingering goodbye that left the room echoing with the sounds of cheerful voices. Turning to face Eloise and Penelope, he approached them with a measured calm.
"May I help you, ladies?" Martin inquired, his tone polite but guarded.
Eloise took a deep breath before speaking. "Are you Sir Martin Hayes, once Lieutenant to Captain Sebastian Foxworth?"
Confirming his identity with a nod, Martin's expression turned wary. "I am Martin Hayes. How may I assist you regarding Captain Foxworth?"
Penelope, ever direct, wasted no time. "We have questions about Sebastian. It's important, and we hope you can help us understand some things about his actions during the war."
Martin's demeanor shifted subtly, a touch of steel entering his voice. "I do not answer questions about my captain. May I know who I am speaking with?"
The formality of his inquiry prompted a quick introduction. "I'm Eloise Bridgerton, and this is Penelope Featherington," Eloise responded, her voice steady despite the flutter of nervousness in her stomach.
Recognition flickered across Martin's features at the mention of Eloise's name. "Bridgerton... Sebastian has mentioned you." The unexpected acknowledgment caused Eloise to blush, her heart skipping a beat at the thought of Sebastian speaking of her to his closest comrades.
Martin continued, albeit reluctantly, "I cannot betray the trust Sebastian placed in me. He is my brother in arms and a close friend."
As he turned to leave, a mix of duty and desperation seized Eloise. "If you truly care for Sebastian, you'll help us understand. We're trying to help him," she called out, her voice echoing slightly in the now-empty classroom.
Martin paused, his back still to them. After a long moment, he turned around, his expression conflicted. "Meet me at my home tomorrow. I will tell you what I can," he conceded, his tone indicating that this was not a decision made lightly.