“I want to give you something.”
“You already did.” She spoke the words shyly, her eyes dropping to the fading bubbles in hope they concealed her embarrassing blush.
“Only my heart.”
The words captured her attention, her eyes flared, as Valerian kneeled beside the tub.
“I’ve learned from the most reputable matchmaker in London that ladies like baubles.”
His deep tenor sent a shiver through her spine though the water remained warm. When he produced a velvet box from his pocket, her chest constricted with a dozen emotions. Fire shone in his midnight-blue eyes, and she smiled with amazement at the handsome earl who was set to propose marriage while she soaked in the bath.
“Volunteering for the parson’s mousetrap, are you?”
His bark of laughter caught her unaware.
“Something like that,” he said with amusement. Then he opened the jewel box and lifted the ring into view.
“My dearest Whimsy, treasure of my heart, would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”
“You’re truly serious?” She blinked back tears as they hurried to blur her vision.
“Never more so.”
“What brought about this change of heart?” Her words fell to a raspy whisper.
“My admiration has remained ever constant. What’s changed is circumstance and like new invention I’m not about to see the opportunity slip away. A lesson I’ve learned recently. So yes, I’m truly serious.” He smiled and a low chuckle chased his words. “As serious as one can be when kneeling beside a bathtub in wet shirtsleeves proposing marriage.”
Wilhelmina couldn’t imagine a better proposal, her heart filled with every joyful emotion she’d ever imagined. “Then yes, Valerian St. David, I accept.”
He slipped the ring on her finger, the glistening diamond almost as brilliant as her smile and they kissed to seal their promise to each other.
Needless to say circumstances continued to improve.
Sixth Earl of Dashwood Revolutionizes the Art of Bathing.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
The sun shone brilliantly on the morning of Whimsy’s wedding. Not a cloud marred the London sky and pleasant weather was such a rarity, it could only be considered a good omen of many joyful years to come. Wilhelmina stood in the vestibule entry, her nerves atwitter although her smile never faltered. Today she would become Valerian’s wife. Her heart overflowed with emotion.
Aunt Kate was already seated, but Livie stood at her side looking lovely in a jonquil gown threaded through with silver and gold beads. Today it was Wilhelmina’s steps that proved shaky as she paced a short line beside the closed vestibule doors.
“You aren’t reconsidering your acceptance of Lord Dashwood’s proposal, are you?” Livie’s question held more amusement than inquiry.
“Of course not. It’s my nerves getting the better of me. Every head will be turned in my direction as I walk down that endlessly long aisle. The entire congregation will be focused on my gown, hair and flowers. I dislike being the center of attention.”
“You very well can’t avoid it today. The bride is the prize and you shouldn’t be testy with the pastor either.” Livie giggled softly as she clasped Wilhelmina’s hands. “You look beautiful and will float down the aisle, carried on the joy you’ve discovered with Valerian. I’m so happy for you. This is a new beginning and what a fine choice you’ve made.”
“He is terribly handsome, isn’t he?”
“An excellent choice. Now do calm your nerves, Whimsy. You still have the wedding night ahead.”
Her sister’s wistful words eased Wilhelmina’s current flutter of anxiousness. “Indeed.” The one word all she could manage as her mind flooded with delectable images of intimacy already shared.
“I should take my place near Aunt Kate.”
The faint chords of the musicians signaled Wilhelmina needed to collect her emotions. She squeezed Livie’s gloved hands before her sister strode away to claim her position near the altar. How confident Livie’s strides had become. Perhaps not too far in the future, it would be Lavinia preparing for her own vows.
A slant of daylight invaded the vestibule as the rear door opened and two hushed voices approached. Wilhelmina glanced over her shoulder, where Fiona and Leonard mouthed their apologies for arriving late. Leonard continued toward the church nave, but Fiona lingered.
“My heavens, Whimsy, you couldn’t look more beautiful.” Fiona flashed a radiant smile and then turned her attention to the wedding gown and bouquet. “Primroses, violets and myrtle. Lutestring silk and imported lace. Don’t you dare show me silk slippers encrusted with jewels or I will faint dead-away. As much as Leonard and I enjoyed our impulsive adventure to Gretna Green, I find myself wishing for the elegant extravagance of an expensive wedding.” She eyed Wilhelmina as if seeking sensible advisement from her dear friend, but in this case Whimsy offered a mere smile in return.
“Never mind. This is your day. Just look how you’re glowing.” Fiona embraced her in a tight squeeze then she too made her way into the church leaving Wilhelmina to harness the last of her jitters.
The violinist struck an ending note and she took a little breath, holding it a moment too long as if to extend the effervescent magic of the event. From this day on she would be Valerian’s wife. She couldn’t be happier.
A footman opened the double doors leading to the lengthy aisle ending at the sanctuary. Every guest swiveled as if on cue, intent on viewing the bride as she walked down the aisle and stood before God to recite everlasting vows.
A current of excitement and delight shivered through Wilhelmina from head to toe as she took that first step. She could see Jasper near the altar, Aunt Kate and Livie seated in the front pews and other noted guests, but mostly she saw Valerian, the sparkle in his eyes as brilliant as the diamond on her finger. Each beat of her heart brought her closer to him, her chest tight with love beyond measure.
How had she arrived at this moment? What did it matter? If only her parents could see her share this wonderful day. She said a silent prayer, and wished for Livie to find the same happiness as she, before she extended her hand to Valerian, his gloved fingers holding fast to hers, his possessive grasp the last charm needed to lead her into their future.
ISBN: 978 1 474 03416 6
Defying the Earl
Copyright © 2015 Anabelle Bryant
Published in Great Britain (2015)
by Carina, an imprint of Harlequin (UK) Limited, Eton House, 18-24 Paradise Road, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1SR
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Anabelle Bryant, Defying the Earl
Defying the Earl Page 26
