The Earl's Reluctant Bride: A Sweet Regency Romance (Brides of Somerset Book 1)

by Karen Lynne

  “It seems Lady Kensley has other plans” Susan’s eyes misted, and she willed her tears back. With a sigh, Susan added, “Lady Kensley doesn’t want the extra expense. I can stay at Sutton Hall for now but must be engaged to Mr. Caldwell before my father and Lady Kensley return from their wedding trip.”

  Abby's eyes widened. “Surely your father would not let that happen?”

  Shaking her head, she let out a slow breath. “He hasn't much choice. It seems Lady Kensley has bewitched him with her cache of money. I fear Father has no desire to be released.”

  “But Mr. Caldwell?” Abby cringed.

  His reputation for compromising the young girls was known around the village. Mothers kept close eyes on their daughters when he showed up. Mr. Caldwell’s father had been a hard-working merchant who made his money through wise investments. After his father’s death, he moved to a large manor and played the gentleman, spending money, gambling and horse racing with the fast crowd.

  “I'm not marrying Mr. Caldwell. I would rather work for my keep, maybe as governess or a lady’s maid. Do you think your Aunt Lucy will give me a recommendation?”

  Abby snorted. “I don't think that is necessary. We'll just have to find you a new betrothed before your father returns.”

  “A new betrothed?” Susan gasped at her friend. “I don’t want to be married to anyone. I want to live quietly at Fyne Court, to run my own life, not be under a husband’s command. Besides, I have no money. What kind of husband would marry without a dowry?” Susan thought of Mr. Caldwell and his leering looks. She didn’t know what he would force upon her, but it could not be good. She cringed at the thought.

  “Abby waved her hand in the air. “Susan, you are beautiful, and there are plenty of suitors who needn’t a dowry to wed. There is a wealth of good men who are kind, not like that awful Mr. Caldwell.”

  James had just returned from a bruising morning ride while trying to clear his mind from all the estate business yesterday. Handing his horse off to a groom, he strode back to the house, pleased with his appraisal of the estate. He would be busy visiting all his tenants and finding ways to improve profits.

  Stacks of trunks filled the entry as the butler supervised footmen in where to deposit them. His mother had returned. Taking the stairs two at a time, he knocked on his mother’s door, and the countess bade him enter.

  “James.” Her eyes lit at the sight of him. “You made it home. Oh, how I have missed you.” The countess rested her hand on his cheek. “Your hair, when did you last cut it?” she exclaimed as she fingered his dark locks.

  “It has been awhile.” He chuckled as a warm feeling embraced his heart. She was the one woman he trusted with his love. “It’s good to be home, Mother.” He reached up and took her hand. She still had an elegant grace and her caring demeanor.

  The countess put her arm in his. “Let us talk over breakfast.”

  They walked to the morning room, which was less formal, He had always enjoyed meals there with family. Footmen were arranging dishes on the sideboard as the butler directed them.

  The countess retired to the settee and patted the seat beside her. He enjoyed his mother’s company. She was still beautiful. He could see why his father fell in love with her. Her soft blue eyes still sparkled complementing her silver hair. She'd been a good mother; he had always felt her love as a child. It was unusual in their circle for a countess to be so attentive to her child. He’d always wished for siblings but it had never happened.

  “Devon came by yesterday, asking for more money.”

  “Of course, he did.” The countess smiled. “I’m surprised he didn’t find you in London.”

  “I have Reeves gathering information on his debts. I should let them take him to Fleet Prison. Maybe it would slow his spending.”

  “It may, but at what cost? As long as you remain a bachelor, he’ll continue as always.”

  James suppressed a laugh. “I threatened him that I would start looking for a bride.”

  The countess looked surprised. “Why, James, I think that would be wonderful.”

  He ignored her comment. “I was thinking of attending a few functions, make Devon ponder his debts.” He was thinking of Miss Hamilton.

  “James, I think it would be wonderful for you to get out in society. It has been too long. I'm attending a little musical soiree hosted by Lady Filbert this week. Why don't you escort me? It will be your debut to let the local society know you are back.”

  “I would be honored, Mother. I helped a lady in distress the other day as I was coming home. The carriage had tumbled into the ditch. A Miss Hamilton. Do you know her? Is she from around here?” James asked keeping his tone casual. He hoped to find out who she was and where she came from. His mother knew everyone in the local county.

  “Susan is George Hamilton’s daughter. He married Lady Coventry. They settled at Fyne Court a small manor in Somerset.” His mother looked at him alarmed. “Is Susan alright?”

  James smiled in reassurance. He knew his mother would know. But he was curious— his mother had used Miss Hamilton’s Christian name. “Do you know the girl?”

  “I knew her mother. Lady Coventry and I were friends. I haven’t seen Susan since she was young. Her mother died a few months ago and her father George has remarried. Why, it was just a few days ago.”

  So, Miss. Hamilton was a gentleman’s daughter. The thought gave him pleasure. He looked forward to seeing her again.

  Susan and Abby found Aunt Lucy in the yellow parlor. Sun streamed in from the windows flooding the room with a soft light. Aunt Lucy was stitching some handkerchiefs taking advantage of the bright afternoon.

  Abby sat at the small desk and began sorting through invitations. Turning one over to examine it more closely. “Susan, Lady Filbert is having a soiree this week. I think this will be a wonderful place for you to be seen.”

  “Lady Filbert’s musicales are really the thing, I hear she's bringing a singer in from London,” Aunt Lucy replied.

  “Aunt Lucy is right, Susan. They are very entertaining.”

  “Well... I guess if you both agree.” Susan said, mentally cataloging in her mind the best dress to wear. She did love music

  “Good, I'll accept for us all.” Abby began to write a reply.

  It was a pleasant afternoon, Susan thought. Abby's maiden aunt, Lucy, was a jewel. She was Abby's companion since her mother died four years ago. She treated them both as daughters.

  “Aunt Lucy, I need to buy some ribbons. Can we go to town tomorrow?” Abby asked. “Susan, we could go by the chocolate shop.”

  “That sounds delightful, girls. We can have luncheon at the tea shop. They have the most delightful pastries.” Aunt Lucy pulled the bell rope. “We are ready for tea, Howard.”

  “Very good my lady.” The butler left as Sir William Phelips swept into the room.

  “I'm famished, where's the food?” He glanced around the room catching Susan’s eye.

  “Tea is ordered. Your always hungry, William.” Abby eyed her brother, but he ignored her comment.

  “Susan, it’s good to see you. How did the wedding go?”

  “Father is on his wedding trip and I am glad it's over. They plan to be gone four to five weeks. I wouldn’t be surprised if they stayed in London for the Season.”

  “Susan is staying with us while they are gone,” Abby told her brother.

  “Wonderful.” William replied.

  “Father is letting Lady Kensley sell Fyne Court. She doesn't want the extra expense.” Susan informed him. “So, I’ve run away from home so to speak.” She smiled.

  “Sell your home! I am sorry.”

  “Yes, well, it’s actually Father who is selling it, but I don’t think he would if Lady Kensley hadn’t suggested it,” Susan explained. It saddened her to think she would never live there again with all the memories of her mother.

  “Well, we're glad to have you. You are always welcome here.” William responded.

  A footman entered wit
h the tea. William started filling a plate. Aunt Lucy served the tea while Susan relaxed and enjoyed the comfortable surroundings. She felt Sir Phelips and his family were like a second home.

  “I saw Bathurst in town today. He said the Earl of Malmesbury had returned to Bowood House.” Abby perked up, raising her brows at Susan. She gave Abby a slight shake of her head. She didn't need William to know of her encounter on the road.

  “Do you know the earl, William?” Susan asked.

  “He is a few years older than I, but I knew him at school. We both went to Oxford. He left for the military before I graduated. He’s been gone for a few years. Lord, it’s been four years now.”

  “How does Mr. Bathurst know the earl is in residence?” Abby asked, raising her eyebrows.

  “Young Devon is his cousin.” Aunt Lucy replied. They all turned to her. “Their fathers were brothers. Devon is the earl’s heir apparent. Thinks he'll inherit the title, spends like he will, anyway. The countess despairs of him.”

  “The countess, don't they have children?” Susan asked.

  Aunt Lucy laughed. “No, Susan. The countess is the earl’s mother. James is not married. The countess and I are dear friends.”

  William smiled with satisfaction. “Well, I must take a ride over tomorrow and welcome him back. His father kept a good stable of horseflesh. I’d like to see if Malmesbury is going to stock his stables again.”

  Horseflesh. It reminded Susan of her Father. He had gotten her in this mess with his marriage. Not that she didn’t appreciate riding, her mother’s horses had been fine at one time. But they had not been able to replace them as they grew older. She missed riding.

  “William, you must go riding with Susan and myself while she is here.” Abby put her hands together in excitement. “Susan, our park is not as grand as Hyde Park in London, but it is fine to visit while enjoying the outdoors. I’ll loan you one of my riding habits.”

  They spent the evening reminiscing.

  Chapter Four

  Susan awakened to the sound of her maid pulling back the curtains. It felt good, to have a full night’s sleep. She threw back the covers, pleased for the fact that they were going into town today. She’d been thinking of how to freshen up one of her muslins. If she were careful, she could spare a few coins on some material for a new overskirt.

  “I have warm water for you this morning, Miss Susan,” Mary said as she pulled a dress from the wardrobe.

  “Oh Mary, not the blue muslin. It is still cool outside. The peach walking dress will do. Abby and I are going to town this morning.”

  “Yes, miss,” Mary replied.

  She hurried through her ablutions while Mary hung the muslin back in the wardrobe. She wiggled into her dress and chose the green sash. While Mary tied it, she noticed her black walking shoes were a little worn. She would pick up some new laces while in town. Mary was just finishing the last curl to her hair when Abby knocked then bounced through the door.

  “It's a sunny day, and we shall take the open carriage to town after breakfast.” Abby smiled with excitement. “I’ll see you in the breakfast room.” She squealed as she dashed out of the room.

  The smell of cocoa wafted through the air as Susan entered the small dining room. A buffet full of eggs, sausages and three kinds of breads were spread out on the sideboard. She filled her plate, topping it off with strawberries and fresh cream. William was finishing his tea as she sat beside him.

  “I see you still love breakfast, Susan.” He gave her a teasing smile.

  “Of course, William, why should only men have hearty appetites?” A servant poured chocolate into her cup. She nodded her thanks as she poured more cream and sugar in her cup.

  “You like it sweet?” William raised his brow.

  She smiled as she continued to add sugar.

  “William, stop teasing Susan,” Abby complained

  “Who, me?” He gave Susan a conspiratorial wink. “I like girls that aren't afraid to enjoy a good meal instead of pushing their food around the plate.”

  Susan tried to hide her smile. William was still the boy she ran around the grounds with. She remembered the three of them exploring the woods and finding rocks to throw across the pond. He was the brother she’d never had.

  William rose from the table and gave Abby's cheek a tweak as he walked by. “Have a good day, my lady.” He bowed to Susan, chuckling as he left the room.

  Aunt Lucy entered, passing William in the doorway. “Girls, it is a sunny day. The carriage will be around in half and hour. Hurry now and don't forget your parasols.” They quickly finished their breakfast and went to ready themselves for the trip to town.

  Susan slipped on her emerald green spencer, then finished tying the ribbon on her straw bonnet as she joined Abby in the hall. Aunt Lucy was instructing the butler when she waved them to follow her. “Come, girls. We have much to accomplish this morning. We shan’t waste a good day.” The spring had been cool, with long periods of rain, so this day was welcome. The roads had dried, making the ride to town pleasant.

  The carriage stopped in front of the dry goods shop. As the ladies descended, Aunt Lucy instructed the driver where to meet up. The shop windows were sprinkled with colourful displays. They stepped inside, inhaling the smells of fabrics, ribbons, and French lace. Abby headed toward the ribbons lining the west wall, which were organized by colour. Susan moved to the tables of fabrics, ready to search out a bargain. She thought chiffon would make a nice over skirt for her ivory muslin. The soiree was in two days and she just had time for Mary to sew one up.

  “May I help you, miss?” a young clerk asked.

  “I'm looking for chiffon in a violet shade,” Susan replied.

  “Yes, miss, over here.” The clerk showed her three nice pieces of material. She ran her hand over the fabrics, holding them up. They had a lovely feel, and the drape on the silk chiffon flowed well. It would go perfect with the muslin.

  Money had been tight while growing up, but she and her mother had enjoyed pouring over the ladies’ periodical and copying the dresses. With Mary's help, she was able to keep her wardrobe up to the current styles. Now that her father had remarried, she would have to be careful with what little she had left. If she didn't find a position, she feared her choices would be limited. She would ask Aunt Lucy to give her a recommendation for a lady’s companion.

  “I'll take this one.” Susan said.

  The clerk nodded. “I'll wrap it up, miss.”

  She walked over to her friend. Abby's nose scrunched up as she concentrated on a couple of ribbons.

  “I can't decide. Which one do you like?” Abby held them up for her to examine. Two ribbons dangled from Abby's grasp.

  “They are both red.” Susan replied.

  “Yes, but this is tomato and this one is cherry. I can't decide,” Abby said moving her head from side to side.

  “Oh, well I think cherry is the one.” She tried to keep a straight face as Abby's brow wrinkled. Abby looked at her and they both dissolved into giggles.

  “Well I guess they do look the same,” Abby admitted. “I will take the cherry ribbon.” She handed it to the clerk.

  “Yes, miss.” The clerk took the ribbons to wrap up.

  The bell over the door jingled as an older matron entered. “Julia!” Aunt Lucy walked over and the two were soon embracing. “When did you return from London?”

  “I got in yesterday. It is good to be back in the country.”

  “William tells us your son James is home.” Aunt Lucy smiled.

  “Yes, he is. I am so glad. He plans to stay and manage the estate. It is high time he settles down.”

  “Oh, Julia, you must meet my girls. Abby, Susan, come.” Aunt Lucy motioned them over.

  “I would like you to meet my dear friend. Lady Malmesbury, may I introduce Miss Phelips, my niece, and Miss Hamilton. Miss Hamilton is Lady Coventry's daughter.”

  Her ladyship smiled. She still carried her beauty even with silver hair and a strong but genteel b
earing. Susan felt warmth in her smile. “Ah, well, Anne was a dear lady, we do miss her. You have her look. I haven’t seen you since you were little.”

  “Thank you, Lady Malmesbury,” Susan replied.

  The ladies continued to renew their friendship as Abby slipped her arm in Susan's. “Aunt Lucy, may Susan and I go to the stationary shop? We'll meet you at the tea room after.”

  “Yes dear, but please stay together.” Aunt Lucy replied.

  The girls left the dry goods shop arm in arm as they walked toward the stationary shop. Susan took a deep breath. She loved the smell after a cleansing rain. People were taking advantage of the day as carriages strolled up and down the main street stopping to talk to one another. She stiffened as she noticed him... Mr. Caldwell was talking to a group of men just ahead on the board walk and they were headed their direction.

  “Abby,” She whispered a desperate plea. “There’s Mr. Caldwell. Please, I can't let him see me.” The stationary shop was just a few doors up ahead. Susan opened her parasol to conceal her face as she hurried into the shop, and Abby slid in behind her.

  The Earl of Malmesbury escorted his mother into town where he visited the tailor after dropping her off at the dry goods shop. It was time to get more involved with his estate and make sure the Malmesbury title continued to be healthy for future generations. With good business deals and hard work, he was wealthy in his own right. If his cousin kept spending with little thought to the estate, it would not last. The tenants and villagers counted on the earl to provide for their living.

  He needed to order some calling cards. The stationary shop was just a few doors from the tea room where he was meeting the countess. A bell jingled over head as he entered the shop, and a woodsy smell drifted through the air. The shop-keeper rushed forward to greet him, half spectacles-balanced on his balding head.

  “My lord, how may I help you?” the shop owner asked.

  “I need to order some calling cards and stationary.”