Scoundrel With A Noble Heart (sequel of Disgraceful)

Chapter 29

Three months later,

Standing in front of the enormous, double-sided door of Goddard's gaming house, Matthew pulled the coat he wore above his uniform closer around him, grateful for the outerwear had kept the cold air from getting into his skin. The evening started with a downpour that had lasted for almost two hours before eventually abating to a steady drizzle just a few moments ago. Thankfully, Marguerite had had the coat delivered to him as soon as it began to rain. Though the clothing seemed a little bit well worn, it was of finest quality he guessed that it was Goddard's old stuff.

Thinking about everything Marguerite had done for him, Matthew couldn't thank her enough for being so kind and thoughtful. He'd been thinking of some ways to return the favor, and he decided to give her a little present, something to bring a smile to her face. He'd planned to go buy her present tomorrow in his free time.

As he observed his surroundings, his gaze drifted from the slushy streets, where gaslights reflected in a murky puddle, to the glowing windows of the many houses of pleasures lining the sidewalk across from him. The guests who'd just won big time usually headed there to celebrate.

Outside the glamorous brothels with their polished, sophisticated ladies, some streetwalkers tried to get their share by parading on the streets. Since they worked for themselves, clients could get their service at a much cheaper rate. Unlike some of his fellow workers who looked down on those women, Matthew never despised or judged them, for not so long ago he was no better than them, doing whatever it took to make it through one more day.

"Well, hello handsome."
One of the ladies who wore garish make-up stopped in front of him.
"Just want to let you know, if you fancy it, I can give it to you for free."

On the first few days he worked here, he almost cringed whenever he got such invitations, but after some time, he'd learned to handle the bold advances with tact. He pasted a regretful smile on his face.
"No offense, Ma'am, but I'm on duty."

The woman threw a flirtatious glance over her shoulder before strolling away with a delicious sway of her hips. A few moments later, a passing carriage stopped next to her. She leaned forward to the window and, after what seemed like a smooth bargain, she jumped onto the carriage and the vehicle rode off into the night.

Before long, a young gentleman swept out onto the sidewalk, obviously high in the thrill of victory. Soon three streetwalkers fawned over him like flies to a dung pile, vying for his attention.

"Calm down, ladies," The man laughed and paused to have a brief glance at each woman.
"I'll have all three of you."

The women let out a delighted squeal and the driver hurried down to open the door. The man waited with a wide grin as the ladies got into his carriage one after another. He slapped the butt of the girl who came last before climbing after her. Matthew watched the vehicle rolling away until it disappeared at the end of the street.

For the last couple of months, he'd witnessed similar scenes every night. Brash, cocky swells with more money than sense squandered every penny of their win like there was no tomorrow. Ironic how some people get too large a portion, more than their fair share, like a cup that runs over, while some others barely scratch out a living, only to make ends meet.

Behind him, the front door swung open again and a man who seemed to be slightly drunk shuffled outside. Just a couple of steps from the door, the man stumbled after his feet and Matthew caught him right before he hit the ground.

"Are you alright, Sir?"

Grumbling some incoherent words, the man pulled away and struggled not to fall. Still unsteady on his feet, he staggered to his waiting coach, where his driver had opened the carriage door for him. He'd just stepped into the carriage when Matthew spotted a gold watch lying on the pavement near his feet. He stooped down to pick it up, and called out.
"Sir! You dropped your watch."