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

by Karen Lynne

  “As you wish, dear sister. I shall endeavor to keep quiet.” William casually leaned against the carriage. He lifted a leg across his knee, tipped his hat over his brow, and cushioning his head on the velvet curtain covering the window, he closed his eyes.

  “I have been so excited for this party, as the summer has been so dull after,” Abby exclaimed to Eliza. “So warm and muggy. I am glad it begins to cool.” Eliza agreed. The summer had been warm and she loved the coolness of fall. Abby continued to talk about her excitement over her next Season in London.

  Eliza stole a glance at William as he slumbered, or pretended to slumber. She suspected he was listening to every word as his sister continued her chatter. He had grown while away, leaving behind his boyish looks. His coat and pantaloons fit nicely over his firm muscled body. She turned to the window, pulling the curtains back, and peered out where the view was safer for her thoughts.

  Chapter 2

  Bowood House, home of Lord and Lady Malmesbury, appeared in the distance as the carriage emerged from the forest. The estate sat on four thousand acres of pristine land. One could not help but be impressed as the morning sun shone in the cloudless sky, giving the scene a soft glow. It made a fine picture, Eliza thought, keeping her mind turned to safer images. The carriage wheels clicked against the cobblestones as they entered the courtyard.

  A line of servants dressed in crisp uniforms waited to receive guests. Eliza could see Susan at the top of the stairs as the carriage pulled to a stop. Footmen quickly lowered the steps and opened the door.

  Susan reached out to grasp Eliza’s hands. “Eliza, Abby, the party has been well received it seems we are a success. Guests will be arriving this afternoon, just before luncheon”

  “That is wonderful, my lady.” Susan had worried about her acceptance in the community after marrying the earl. Susan had been well-liked before she married James, Eliza reminded her, and the rest of the community well… they— would come to love and respect her friend as time passed.

  “Eliza, we have no need to be formal among friends.” Susan wrinkled her nose, “Please call me Susan, at least here in my home.”

  “Yes, Susan.” She would need to adjust to her new status now that she was a countess. Eliza thought.

  “I hear ‘my lady’ all day long from the servants.” Susan complained. “I do not need to hear it from my friends. James assures me it is quite acceptable while we are at home.”

  Susan walked over to Joanne, taking her by the arm. “Miss Joanne, I have arranged for you to be in rooms near your friends, Miss Moore and Miss Shaw. Mrs. Oakley, the housekeeper, will show you to your room,” Susan nodded to housekeeper. “A maid has been assigned to help you while you are here. Do not hesitate to ask for anything you may need.” A young miss stepped forward on Susan’s announcement and curtsied to her sister.

  Joanne followed behind the housekeeper, she turned and mouthed silently to Eliza, “Thank you.”

  “Susan, that was very good of you to put the girls by each other.”

  The new countess linked her arms with Abby and Eliza’s, guiding them up the impressive flight of stairs, that curved along the wall. Plush carpet cushioned their steps. “The best part is, James’ mother, the dowager Countess, handled Lady Moore famously, convincing her she need not spend the weekend here at Bowood House with her daughter, but that she could come each day by carriage.”

  Eliza relaxed. “That is good news.”

  “I have you both in the family wing close to me. Better for us to gossip in the evenings.” Susan said.

  Susan led them down a wide hall. Plush carpet runners quieted their footsteps on the stone tiles worn from generations of use. Large windows looked out onto the inner courtyard.

  “Here we are.” Susan stopped at a white paneled door. “Abby, this is your room. I have been informed your maid has arrived and is here unpacking.”

  “Eliza, your room is the next one. I have assigned a maid to take care of you throughout your stay.” Susan smiled. “Now you both may get settled. A luncheon for the ladies will be served at one o’clock. Do not hesitate to ask any servant for directions. This house is rather large. I have already been lost several times,” Susan admitted was she retreated down the hall, leaving her friends to themselves.

  Abby took hold of Eliza’s hands and gave a little squeal of delight. “This weekend will be amusing. I love that we are all here together,” Abby cooed.

  “I shall knock when I am ready to go downstairs.” Eliza informed Abby, before entering her room.

  Eliza’s bed-chamber was delightful. Two large windows, framed with floral drapes and window seats— a cozy place to read, she thought—looked out onto the back gardens. Eliza could just see a lake through a copse of trees.

  A knock sounded at the door before a young maid entered, giving Eliza a quick curtsy. “I am to look after you while you are visiting, miss.” She looked toward Susan, her eyes not making contact.

  The maid appeared quite young, with a pleasing countenance. Probably one of the lower maids, pulled from her duties to help with the guests. Eliza thought. “That would be wonderful. What is your name?”

  “Sally, miss.”

  “Thank you, Sally, I am to get ready for luncheon soon.” Eliza stepped aside as Sally moved to unpack. “I will be wearing the blue muslin.”

  “Yes, miss.”

  Eliza’s mind turned to William and how well he looked. He had slipped away shortly after they entered the house. She was determined while she was here to find out if he had softer feelings for her.

  She and Abby entered the salon where a luncheon of cold meats, assortments of cheese, bread and sweet meats had been set up on the buffet. A soft hum filled the room as ladies talked.

  Eliza greeted Susan and wrapped her arm around her waist. “You have a good group here, and you were worried.”

  “Well, it is my first entertainment as the new countess. James and the dowager have been very supportive. The dowager looked over our guest list and, pointed out important people I had missed. There are so many rules a countess must observe. Thank heavens for the dowager’s help.”

  “You will do well, Susan,” Eliza encouraged her. “I have never seen you back down from a challenge yet.”

  Eliza thought of William. He would be married someday. She hoped his Aunt Lucy would be as gracious to a new bride at Montacute. She had hoped, that someday it would be her. But thus far William had not shown any interest in her beyond his boyhood friendship. She thought of William’s sparkling eyes framing is his handsome square jaw. Eliza shook her head, bringing herself back to reality.

  Joanne and her friends were at a table by the terrace windows. “Susan, as much as I dislike Miss Sophia, I am pleased that you were able to arrange her visit.”

  Susan laughed. “Yes, considering how much Lady Moore irritates his Lordship. The dowager has promised to keep her busy and out of way of James.”

  “I am curious to see how his mother will accomplish that feat.” Eliza giggled.

  She enjoyed the rest of the afternoon with the ladies. Susan had informed her that James had the gentlemen riding about the countryside, doing whatever gentlemen did, she had no clue. William’s father, Sir George, spent most of his time in London, serving in Parliament.

  Her father was always home, puttering around the vicarage, planning his sermons and visiting his parishioners. Although her father could have hired a curate to handle the ministering of his flock, he preferred to handle the work himself.

  Most of the ladies retired to their rooms after luncheon to rest before dinner. Susan offered a tour of Bowood House, for any lady that wished. Eliza was most impressed with the library. The tour was beneficial, for she could see that Susan was right. One could indeed get lost in the large house.

  Eliza was restless and decided to explore the library. Slipping out of her room into the hallway, she set out, asking for directions once before standing outside of the set of wide double doors. Her hand turned the knob on
the door, and it moved easily on well-oiled hinges. She peeked around the opening to check for occupants. It had been vacant earlier in the day.

  The library was empty as she slipped into the large room filled with heavily laden shelves. A ladder on wheels ran along rungs, enabling anyone to reach the top shelves.

  Even more impressive was the balcony that ran along one end of the room, accessible by a beautiful stairwell running along the wall. More bookshelves soared all the way to the top of the fifteen-foot ceiling. Her heart swelled as she climbed towards the balcony. Her fingers tickled along the row of books, the pungent smell of leather assaulting her senses. She was in heaven.

  Her father’s library contained books on theology. She treasured her small collection of novels gathered throughout the years. She remembered how William had teased her, whenever he found her absorbed in a new novel.

  She walked her fingers along the hard leather bindings, pulling a book from the shelf. A sound from below startled her as she swung around, holding the book to her chest. She met the eyes of a stranger, looking at her from below.

  “Sir, you startled me,” Eliza exclaimed before realizing her slip at addressing a gentleman to whom she had not been introduced. She blushed as her hand flew to her lips.

  His penetrating eyes watched her. In the split second before he spoke, she assessed him as having a serious nature, being conservatively well-dressed with sideburns tickling his chin. He must be at least ten years her senior.

  “I am sorry I startled you, miss.” He looked around, his arms indicating the empty room. As there is no one to introduce us, may I?”

  Eliza gave a slight nod.

  “Sir Martin Wycliff, at your service, miss.” He gave her a bow. “It appears you were looking for a book.”

  Eliza relaxed her grip on the book. “Miss Grant, Sir martin.” A slight smile played at her lips. “I was restless and thought to find a novel to read before dinner. I apologize if I disturbed you. I did not notice anyone here when I entered.”

  “Oh no, Miss Grant, you have not disturbed me.” He proceeded to tuck a bundle of papers into his coat pocket. “I will leave you in peace and hope we are introduced more formally at dinner.” His eyes danced as he held his finger to his lips, indicating silence. “I will tell no one we have met,” Sir Martin replied as he left, closing the door behind him.

  Eliza returned the book to the shelf. What a strange gentleman. He must be here for the party. Finding a novel, she tucked it under her arm as she returned to her bed-chamber. The late afternoon sun had warmed the room as it streamed through the windows. The maid had put a vase of late summer flowers on the small table by her bed, further cheering up the already bright room. Settling in one of the window seats, Eliza began to read.

  Chapter 3

  William left the ladies in the hallway and followed the butler to his room. His valet had arrived earlier, his luggage unpacked, riding clothes ready. James had informed the gentleman guests they would be riding out at one o’clock to inspect his estate.

  William had been running his father’s estate, Montacute, throughout the summer. He had been trained up while young to manage the country house. It had been a good harvest, but now he was ready to enjoy the company of his neighbors.

  He had looked forward to this house party. Susan and James had promised Abby this celebration at the end of the summer as she was disappointed in not being able to attend their spring wedding. His father insisted she stay and finish out the Season in London.

  Abby had prodded him this morning, eager to get here. He enjoyed their playful bantering. It had been a long time since they had been together. After his schooling, he spent a few years traveling to different estates, observing the different techniques they each applied. He had conferred with James and they had implemented some with good results.

  Abby had grown into a young lady while he had been away, though she was still impulsive with an exuberant personality. He could still rile her with his teasing.

  Eliza had grown into a beauty as well, quieter and more serious than Abby, but he found he could still tease a smile out of her.

  William looked forward to the ride today. He brought his own mount, although James had started to replenish his stables after his marriage to Susan, acquiring some fine bloodlines at Tattersalls.

  William could see James as he approached the stables, organizing the gentlemen as they picked their mounts, stable dogs spun around his legs, wagging their tails, excited to get their masters attention. William inhaled the scent of freshly scattered straw, in the cool morning air.

  “William, you have arrived.” James approached giving him the usual slap on the back as they greeted each other.

  “Yes.” William chuckled.” Abby was very insistent I get moving this morning. I have left her and the Grant sisters in the care of your wife.”

  William retrieved his horse from a stable hand. Other gentlemen had chosen their mounts.

  “We will tour the estate today, with a bite in town at the tavern. There will be grouse hunting tomorrow morning. Susan has planned a dinner at six,” James explained, “so we had better get moving.” He chuckled. “Cook would have my head if we were late.”

  “Sir William.” Captain Charles Rutley approached, a gentleman following. “I would like you to meet a friend, Sir Martin Wycliff from Bristol.”

  “Sir Martin, this is Sir William Phelips,” Charles introduced.

  “Bristol, you say? That is a busy port town, is it not?” William nodded, meeting Sir Martin’s penetrating brown eyes. His whiskers made him appeared older. He must be but a few years his senior.

  “Yes, Sir William, it is.” He offered his hand, giving William a firm handshake.

  “Sir Martin has an investment opportunity. I thought you could join us, along with James to discuss it after dinner,” The captain informed him.

  William nodded his consent. He was always looking for some sound investments. If this, Sir Martin was trustworthy.

  “Well, it would do no harm to listen,” William agreed.

  The gentlemen retired to change after their ride. James informed guests the time was theirs before dinner.

  “We have billiards or cards in the game room and plenty to read in the library, of course,” James explained. “If you get lost,” he chuckled, “just ask a footman. They will get you back on course.”

  William suspected James meant to spend the short interlude before dinner with his lady wife.

  William’s valet waited to help him wash and dress. He mused over the change in Susan since her marriage. James was not ashamed to show his affection for his new wife, which was unusual for aristocratic families, who usually remain aloof while in company.

  He decided he wanted that for himself, although the thoughts of marriage—well, he was still young. He had escorted his sister Abby to her first Season, along with his aunt Lucy, this past spring and soon grew tired of the constant round of visits and parties. He found the country more to his liking, unlike his peers who wiled time away in London gambling and socializing. He found more satisfaction in working the estate.

  William left his chambers in search of company after dressing. The game room was quiet. A few gentlemen played billiards while a couple gentlemen bent over a chessboard. William turned, a walk in the gardens would be more refreshing.

  Rounding a bend in the garden path, he recognized a familiar silhouette sitting on a stone bench under the shade of a tree, her bonnet thrown to the side. How many times had he caught Eliza in this very pose, immersed in a novel, captivated by its contents, oblivious to the world around her? Soft brown curls fell over her pink cheeks. Her figure filled out the green dress in all the right places. Surprised filled him. When has she grown into such a beauty?

  He approached, quietly leaving the path to sneak up from behind her. Something tightened in his chest, but he shook off the feeling before he leaned over her left shoulder and snatched the book from her grasp.

  She squealed, turning her w
ide green eyes to him. Her hand flew to her lips. “William, you scared me.” Her eyes flashed annoyance.

  “I couldn’t resist,” he admitted, “how many times have I caught you reading?”

  “Too many, I assure you,” she remarked. He noticed the annoyance in her voice. She looked around before quickly reaching for the book.

  William turned, raising it just out of her reach as he swung around the tree. She followed, trying to snatch it from his hands. She stopped suddenly, her hands on her hips. Her soft curls falling from her pins made her look adorable. “William, please, we are no longer children playing silly games,” she retorted as she brushed the strands aside.

  Her eyes flashed with fire in annoyance at him. My, she was pretty, he thought as he stepped towards her, offering her the book.

  She reached forward to retrieve it. William raised the book once again out of her reach, as she stumbled into him. He wrapped his arm around her waist to catch her fall, surprised at how good she smelled. Her shocked, wide eyes lifted to his as he held her close. He scanned her face and settled his eyes on her lips. They were so close, if he just leaned in, he could taste them.

  She emitted a soft cry before quickly pulling away, grabbing the book from his hand before retreating toward the path. Turning she bumped into a surprised Sir Martin, who reached out to steady her. Eliza stepped back, a rose color entering her cheeks as she adjusted her skirts.

  “Sir Martin,” William spoke as he approached Eliza from behind.

  Sir Martin coughed. “I apologize, I did not mean to interrupt anything.” He turned to leave.

  “Wait,” Eliza sputtered, turning pleading eyes on William.

  “Sir Martin, no, it is not what you think. May I introduce Miss Grant. Miss Grant this is Sir Martin Wycliff, a friend of captain Rutley’s. He is visiting us from Bristol.”

  Eliza gave Sir Martin a small nod. “Sir Martin, nice to meet you.”

  William felt bad that he had embarrassed her, and now Sir Martin clearly thought he was interrupting something between them. She was right; they were no longer children. Guilt assailed him. When had she grown into such a lovely lady? She clearly deserved more respect, especially from him.