It was the wedding of Meredith who opened the eyes of Jasper to the possibility of change. He held the title of Viscount and, as heir of his father, a day would be the Earl of Stafford.
Taking seriously this responsibility, decided that his mission was to restore the integrity of the family name. Would show the harsh critics that knew the rules that governed the society and was willing to follow them strictly. Had succeeded in its purpose. Over the years, managed to erase the memories of the past, replacing them with attitudes and correct and appropriate. The culmination of their plans was about to be achieved: to marry a demure young woman, the kind he always scorned in the past.
He imagined that this was the reason for the joke by friends. A woman who posed as his wife was not only incompatible with their status. It was a real disaster. Under the shade of the interior simple girl, was all that Jasper wanted to avoid. He checked the time on the clock on the mantelpiece. Should have been bathing. However, he was still grappling with that actor, owner of a magnificent pair of breasts.
- Looks like we're at an impasse, my lady. We both know that is not my wife. If you tell me how you got here, we may terminate this visit in a friendly way. The young man raised his head and bit her lower lip, before you defend:
- I'm not an actress - he repeated firmly. Her talent was remarkable.
- Okay. You're not a professional actress, but a woman willing to honestly earn a few bucks. 'm Not judging, milady, but I'm losing patience. If you do not leave home willingly, I will take it by force.
- My lord would not dare.
She looked at him with a defiant glare in his eyes, a reaction that surprised Jasper, because he expected a more dramatic scene.
- This is my home. And I dare to do what it wants.
- I did nothing wrong. Nothing. I do not understand what happened. Angered by the situation absurd, Jasper began to walk around the room. Should I just throw her out of her house, but something in her attitude prevented him from doing so.
Backs to the door, he heard a faint rustle of skirts. Someone else entered the room. Another woman claiming to be his wife, perhaps? Or perhaps the author of the joke. Great if it were, what has been going on too. But when he turned, Jasper saw the newcomer was Meredith, who watched with surprise expression for the unknown.
- Excuse my intrusion, Jasper. Cook wants to consult him about a change in the menu. As a busy mom, I offered to settle the matter with you, but I see you have company.
Meredith always figure out the strong and continuous family, his voice always calm and common sense, until he takes that role. In her youth, she freed more hardships than Jasper could remember. And it bothered him greatly feel that even inadvertently got himself into awkward situations.
- Not a good time, Merry. Please tell the cook to talk about the menu later. It would be too much to hope that his sister leave the room quietly. Displeased, he saw her sitting in the armchair of brocade.
Meredith was a beautiful woman. The maturity and three children had not diminished her beauty and her charms. She wore a simple dress of pale green silk that matched her eyes and blond hair.
The visitor looked at Meredith with undisguised amazement, no doubt, admired for her beauty and sophistication. Meredith glanced interrogator's brother, looked back into the unknown, and again for him. Finally, he coughed softly.
- You're being unkind, dear brother. Please introduce me to his guest. Jasper pursed her lips. Could not avoid the inevitable, but did not even know the name of the stranger. Deep breath and announced:
- Milady, my sister, Meredith Morely, Gurney Dardington, expresses her desire to be presented. - Jasper turned to her sister. - Unfortunately I am unable to complete the presentations, because this young man here did not inform me your name or your surname.
Meredith frowned.
- It is a known relative of ours?
- No - Jasper replied. He reflected for a few seconds before adding: - Apparently, it's my wife.
There followed a moment of uncomfortable silence.
- How interesting! - Meredith said in a calm tone. - I must ask, was a sudden occurrence or you have kept the marriage a secret for long?
Jasper stared at the stranger, hoping that with this, she admitted the truth. But the girl remained silent, leaving the imperturbable countenance.
- This can only be a joke, Merry. In extremely bad taste, to be sure. Summers is my main suspect, but must also have the hand of Monteguy.
- What do you have beautiful friends, my brother.
Jasper shrugged. Over the years, he also modified his circle of friends, but many of his fellow young men were also privileged and powerful. It was impossible to avoid them and avoid the notion of humor sometimes ridiculous what they had.
- What would you do? - Meredith asked.
- I hope my wife to go away so I can resolve outstanding issues over dinner tonight. - He looked at Claire. - Although it will be an almost impossible task to convince her to leave this house.
Approaching, Jasper took his hand to help her get up.
The touch Claire took the torpor in which sunk. He pushed his hand and got up quickly.
- I will not go away until we clarify this mystery, my lord - told aloud. - My name is Claire Truscott Barrington, Lady Fairhurst. Or rather, Viscountess Fairhurst. And you're my husband. We got married three months ago, and the Rev. Clarkson performed the wedding in the church of Wiltshire.
- Lady ...
Claire raised her hand with authority and Jasper was silent.
- His birthday is on June 10 - she went in the same firm tone. - Her favorite color is green. His favorite food is chicken cooked-to-Angola, hates peas and not release a sweet after meals, including breakfast. He has a scar on her left wrist in a crescent shape. When he was eight years old, insisted on driving a cab and fell on a rock, seriously cutting his wrist.
Jasper stiffened. Claire went on talking, but he no longer heard her. Something very strange was happening. She set the date of his birthday, and although not his favorite dish, he liked the chicken-baked-Angola.
It was not crazy about sweets and even had a scar on his left wrist. But one person knew very well that fit that description perfectly: Jason, his twin brother. Chapter II
Terrified, Jasper turned and found expression also astonished sister.
- My God - Meredith muttered. - This girl is married to Jason ... Claire realized exchanged looks of puzzlement by the brethren. Suddenly, he felt a twinge of satisfaction at seeing that the situation had changed. Jasper and his sister seemed really surprised and confused. After a brief conversation with Jasper, Meredith sat down and indicated a chair next to Claire. Jasper remained standing beside her sister.
Meredith straightened her skirts and looked at Claire with friendly look.
- Well, Claire. Can I call her Claire, no?
- Please.
The Marquise smiled.
- And you can call me Meredith. After all, we are struck. Claire took a deep breath and looked at Jasper. He forced a smile. Despite having insisted for nearly half an hour that the man was her husband, she began to doubt that was true. The situation was absurd, intriguing and frightening.
- Looks like you made a mistake, which is understandable, for not knowing all the facts - the Marchioness began. - Affirms that Jasper is her husband and he says he never saw her before that time. We believe that this should be dealing with some kind of joke.
- No, Lady Meredith. I assure you that this is not no joke.
- I fear that the victim is you play it, Claire.
- How so?
- My brother and I deduce that you really married a Barrington. Except that her husband forgot to mention it has a twin brother.
Claire was stunned by the news. He turned to Jasper, but when their eyes met, she hastened to avert their eyes. Never felt so embarrassed in her life. Twins! The explanation was simple and logical, but did not solve your situation.
- I had no idea that Jay had a twin brother. He
rarely spoke of the family and when he spoke, was in general terms.
- Finally, you became convinced that I am not your Jay - Jasper joked. - And by the way, her husband's name is Jason.
Slowly, Claire leaned her head on the back of the chair. His face was burning, and for a moment, he felt completely disoriented. Jay, or rather, Jason, had a twin brother!
That startling revelation further complicated their situation.
- I can see that it was a great shock to you, Claire.
- It was, yes, Lady Meredith.
- Jason is still the same irresponsible as ever - Jasper said in angry tone of voice. - It only causes shame and dishonor to our family ...
- Just Jasper - ordered the marquise. Jasper did not argue.
- Need to talk to Jay. - Claire looked forward to Meredith.
- Jason is not home.
- He will return soon?
- God knows - Jasper said with irony. - I believe he did not even find in the city. It would be too much to hope that our brother appears to sort out the mess he created. He always leaves that task to others.
- Jasper! - Meredith scolded again.
- Sorry, did not want to be rude, but this girl is his responsibility, not mine. Anyway, some action must be taken. - Jasper took the watch from his waistcoat pocket and checked the time. - I have a huge list of matters that require my attention. You can, please fix this, Meredith?
Claire squirmed in his chair. It was horrible to feel rejected. I did not know this man and had no reason to care about his opinion, but the coldness with which he dispensed caused a painful sensation. On the other hand, was sure that the proud lord Fairhurst would change the tone of voice to know the whole truth.
Pondered how they could quickly address the extraordinary fact that would change the view of it all. The air of ennui that the viscount showed that time would go off his face when he knew that, surprisingly, it was indeed his responsibility.
- I appreciate your understanding that I am not responsible for this terrible misunderstanding, and I apologize for any inconvenience caused to both. Jasper laughed and waved a little case with your hand.
- Nothing. Forget it.
He bowed in a polite bow and went to the door. Claire followed him.
- It seems that we decipher the mystery of my marriage, my lord. But there is one detail that still must be clarified.
- Yes? - His voice sounded vague and impatient, as if the subject had already been cleared of his thought.
Claire looked at Meredith before facing Jasper Barrington. The reaction to the news would be extreme, but not stop her from revealing the truth.
- As was stated, was Jason, not you, who took the vows of marriage. But the name that appears on my marriage certificate is Jasper Barrington, Lord Fairhurst. Claire heard the exclamation of the Marquise shocked, but kept his eyes fixed on Jasper. His face flushed with anger.
- What are you saying?
- The same thing we have been saying since I came here. You're my husband. I confess that I am as perplexed as you, but to the world, I'm Claire Truscott Barrington, Lady Fairhurst. His lawful wife.
Claire heard a slight knock. He looked at his watch. It was only three hours to come, and yet there seemed an eternity ago.
Jasper had been upset with anger and astonishment at the revelation. Fortunately, Meredith managed to appease the wrath of his brother. The two had talked among themselves for several minutes, quietly, under the eyes of Claire, a servant until he was called and instructed to lead her to a guest room.
A new knock sounded on the door.
- They are waiting for the library, my lady. I would like to accompany me, or should I tell them to wait to fall?
- One moment, please.
Claire took a deep breath and walked through the elegant room. Had time to freshen up and put on clean clothes. Decided to use the best dress she had brought, green satin, with lace bodice and high waist.
Before opening the door, she hesitated for a moment. He closed his eyes and breathed deeply again. His heart pounded, and shivers of apprehension went through his back. Unpleasant moments to expect, but would have to face them if he wanted to resolve this mess and move on with your life.
- Miss?
Claire squared his shoulders and opened the door. A waiter emerged from the shadows in the dimly lit corridor. It was the same young man that led to the room. He looked at her with curiosity, and Claire blushed. She followed him in silence to the library and, on entering, are embarrassed to see six people waiting.
- Claire, you're charming. - Meredith laced her shoulders in a protective gesture. - I hope you've managed to rest. Come, I want to present it to everyone. Jasper's parents, Earl and Countess of Stafford, were elegant and refined, and had a youthful look. Claire greeted with an encouraging smile and a warm handshake. Meredith's husband, the Marquis of Dardington, was tall, strong and beautiful. Greeted her with pride and undisguised distrust.
Lord Fairhurst was also present. Claire bowed, and lifting his head their eyes met briefly. Her heart soared.
Jasper was beautiful and elegant in his dress suit, black jacket and trousers made of satin, silk waistcoat gray and white tie. The manly and striking presence was astonishing. At least in physical appearance, it was perfect. A sudden warmth ran through her body, causing unusual emotions. Although Jasper had barely looked at her, Claire experienced the strange sensation that this man would set his destiny. Regardless of what happened that night, from that moment, she would never be the same person.
Meredith's voice pulled her from her thoughts.
- And this is Mr. Walter Beckham, a lawyer for the family. The man shook his head slightly bowed Claire. Then pulled out a handkerchief and wiped sweat from his brow.
The door was closed and everyone sat down. In an almost imperceptible sign of Jasper Fairhurst, the lawyer went to Claire. All eyes turned to her and she clenched her hands nervously.
- Lord and Lady Meredith Fairhurst reported on the disagreement with the name appearing on the marriage certificate - he said without preamble. - Is it correct to state that the lady wanted to marry Mr. Jason Barrington Fairhurst and not lord?
- Yes, sir.
- By chance, brought the marriage certificate? I need to examine it thoroughly to determine the authenticity of the legal document.
Claire felt her face burn. He glanced at the people who watched and lifted his chin.
- No, sir. I left my home in Wiltshire with the intention to visit my husband. Not thought it necessary to carry in my bag a document so important. The marriage is also recorded in the book of the church in my town. But I can say with certainty that the groom's name is Jasper Barrington, Lord Fairhurst.
There was a long and heavy silence. Beckham picked up the handkerchief again and wiped the sweat from his face.
- If it's really true, this could be considered a marriage by proxy. Which means that this girl here is married to Lord Fairhurst.
- Are you sure? - Lord Dardington asked. The lawyer confirmed with a nod.
- Bastard! - Jasper clenched his fists. - I'll strangle the bastard Jason! After landing a punch in the eye of the bastard!
- Jasper! What language is that? - Countess scolded his son. - I understand your indignation, but nothing justifies such vulgarity. I'm sure this is a mistake that will be easily resolved.
After exchanging glances eloquent with her husband, the countess turned to Claire, making her black feathers that adorned her hair bouncing lightly.
- Tell us how you met Jason, darling, and how they came to the wedding. Must be a beautiful and compelling love story.
Claire smiled. These people were clever and would not be cheated easily. The best would be to tell the truth with as little detail as possible.
- Earlier this year, Jay was held in our village because of a snowstorm that made the road impassable. Unable to continue the trip, he stayed at the local inn. Dardington Lord looked at her with raised eyebrows.
- He met h
er at an inn?
- Heavens, no! - Claire protested immediately countered with the suggestion in the question of evil marquis. - I was at my home in Wiltshire. But Jay fell ill with high fever, and I ...
- You took care of him? - The countess interrupted in a tone of reproach. Claire gulped. That was the court that made it! The idea of a single woman caring for a stranger was simply unacceptable and compromising.
- Not directly, but had an active participation in their recovery. Jay was attended by the village physician, Dr. Fletcher. My mother has knowledge of botany, and we grow several kinds of medicinal herbs. The villagers often come to us because my mother is always willing to provide the herbs and instructions on how to use them, who need it.
- I understand. - The Countess made an impatient gesture with his hand. - And how she met my son?
- Responding to the call of Dr. Fletcher, it took several pots of herbs at the inn. When Jay had recovered, he came to our house to thank us. It was when we met.
- And of course, fell in love at first sight - The Marquis commented sarcastically. Claire pursed his lips. On the corner of his eye, he noticed the frown that Meredith launched the husband. Knowing he had a likely ally was encouraging.
- Why did my son refers to as "Jay"? - The countess put her hand on his chin. - His name is Jason.
- He registered at the inn as J. Barrington. And ill, unable to tell us your name, so we started to treat him by Jay. After he recovered, he simply refused to reveal the meaning of the initial J. - Claire tilted his head slightly. - Only on the wedding day I knew my husband's name was Jasper.
Suddenly, everyone started talking at once. Claire enjoyed that brief interval. It was exhausting to be the center of so much negative attention. But as he had imagined, the interrogation was not over. Lord Marquis Dardington Fairhurst and exchanged a few words and then looked at her with an expression of distrust. Straightening up in his chair, Claire waited for the next attack.
The Wedding Deception Page 2
