by Vikki Vaught
“No, my wife is, so we come most days.” Lord Shelton turned to Jonathan’s intended. “It’s a pleasure to see you, Lady Kathryn. We’re looking forward to you doing our portrait with great anticipation. Are you still able to start in two weeks?”
He interjected, “Congratulations are in order. Lady Kathryn has agreed to become my wife in four weeks. She will be very busy…” then realizing Kathryn would know if she had time, “but, of course, she will decide when she can do your portrait.”
Lord Shelton clapped his shoulder. “Congratulations, old friend. I wish you many years of wedded bliss.” He addressed Kathryn. “We will understand if you need to delay for a while. Just let us know when it is convenient for you.”
“While I’m busy, my mother is taking care of majority of the wedding plans. I want to go ahead and do the preliminary sketches,” she assured him. “Would you be free to come tomorrow morning at nine?”
Lord Shelton glanced at his wife, and Lady Shelton nodded enthusiastically. “We can be there. We appreciate your willingness to fit us in.”
“Excellent, then I shall see you in the morning. When you come tomorrow, we will plan a schedule for the next few weeks.”
Although he’d ask Kenneth to be his best man, he’d need a second attendant. “Shelton, would you consider standing up with me at my wedding? Since I lost my brother, I would appreciate it.”
His friend’s brows drew together. “Oh, my God. What happened? I’m so sorry—I didn’t know. Please accept our condolences. I can only imagine how painful this must be. I know how close you were to Roderick. Of course, I shall stand up with you. How is his wife handling his demise?”
Jonathan swallowed the lump in his throat. “They passed together. They had taken out their yacht and were caught in a storm. The yacht capsized, and they both drowned. I’m now guardian to their two children. It has indeed been very difficult.”
“What a terrible tragedy. If there is anything you need, please ask. You know I respected and admired your brother a great deal.” Lord Shelton turned to Lady Kathryn. “Are you sure you should start our portrait? We will understand if this is too much for you.”
Kathryn shook her head. “Actually, it will take my mind off everything, so please come tomorrow as arranged.”
“As long as you’re sure. We shall see you in the morning,” Lord Shelton replied.
As they walked away, Jonathan asked, “Are you sure you should do this?”
“I want to go ahead. Based on how often Lord and Lady Shelton can come for a sitting, I could possibly finish before the wedding. Mother is doing all the planning. All I have to do is go for sittings with Madame Bovary for my gown. Those appointments are in the afternoon. I cannot afford to wait. I must be in Devonshire by the first part of November. Remember when I told you nothing will come before my art? This is an example of what I meant.”
He gently took her hand. “Whatever you think is best. I just worry you will overdo and fall ill.” Her eyes burned bright with determination, and he quickly added, “Of course, I understand how important your art is, and I shan’t stand in your way.”
Her expression softened. “Well, good. Now, I need to return home so I can prepare my studio for tomorrow. You’re easy. Now I must deal with my mother. She will not be as understanding.”
After Jonathan returned Kathryn to her home, he made his way to St. John’s Wood. He worried she was taking on too much, but he could not interfere. She was very stubborn when it came to her art. Alas, he would go along with anything to keep her happy. He did not want her to regret her decision.
He would pray she would know her limits. His feelings were growing stronger every time they were together. He hoped as she grew more comfortable with him, she would change her mind regarding intimacy. If he could persuade her to fall in love with him, then perhaps he could overcome her fears.
* * * *
After her intended escorted her to the house, Kathryn hurried inside and up to her studio. While she was taking on quite a bit, she did not want to wait to start the Sheltons’ portrait. Her mother loved planning events, and her wedding would be no different. Her belly still flipped at her decision to wed Jonathan, but she trusted him to keep his word.
Kathryn had promised to help him with the children and being married was the only way she could fulfill her promise. He did not need to go through this alone. He’d loved his brother, and between assuming guardianship and their upcoming nuptials, she feared he was not taking time to mourn for Roderick and his wife. She wanted to help him grieve. While she could never be his wife completely, she would be a good and loyal companion.
All these musings were not helping her prepare for her afternoon. She needed to freshen up, since she had her first fitting with Madame Bovary at two, and the noon hour was drawing near.
After luncheon, Kathryn broke the news to her mother. “I came upon Lord and Lady Shelton while visiting the Pump Room. They will be coming every day for a sitting. I need to start their portrait straightaway. I want to finish it before the wedding.”
The duchess grew still, and a tense silence filled the room. She narrowed her eyes. “Kathryn, how could you? You are getting married in less than four weeks. This is most inconsiderate of you. We have far too much to do. You must tell them you cannot do their portrait until after the wedding.”
She met her mother’s fury without batting an eye. “I will not tell them that. Nothing…absolutely nothing…comes before my art. Lord Sutherland already knows this, and he supports me. You love planning events anyway. I give you full control over decisions regarding my wedding.”
The duchess’s nostrils flared. “We have so much to do, and such a short period of time to get everything planned. I insist you delay.”
“This is not up for discussion. I shall have my afternoons free. You must schedule things you need me to do in that time frame. With you in charge, it will be the most talked-about wedding of the year. We leave for Madame Bovary’s Salon in fifteen minutes, so I must retrieve my pelisse.” Believing it wise to give her mother her due, she added, “Thank you for doing this for me. I do not say this often enough…I love you, Mama.”
Her mother’s face softened. She’d not called her “mama” in years. Their time together had brought them closer than she could ever remember, and she would never have met Jonathan if she had not agreed to a visit. Her life had changed so much and for the better.
Kathryn entered Madame Bovary’s, and soon she and her mother were shuffling through fashion plates. She chose a cream satin with Italian lace overlay on the bodice and skirt of the gown, gold ribbon under the bodice, and seed pearls sown on the lace. Her mother agreed with her choice.
Madame Bovary took her measurements to make sure they had not changed and told her she would need her for the first fitting on Friday.
With that accomplished, they went to the print shop and selected the invitations. Although a terrible extravagance, the duchess insisted they be engraved. The duchess planned to invite three hundred of the ton to the wedding, far more than Kathryn desired. She tried to encourage her mother to limit the guests, but she would not hear of it.
At the greenhouse on George Street, her mother insisted on lilies. The proprietor assured them he could supply them, along with the white roses as well.
Bath Abbey was the perfect venue for a wedding. It was an eighteenth-century church with graceful fan vaulting and a huge east window overlooking the courtyard. The abbey had been built as a memorial to—of all people—Beau Nash, one of the most flamboyant dandies who frequented Bath in the last century.
Kathryn had so many things to keep her busy she did not have time to dwell on the magnanimous decision she’d made in agreeing to wed. Although, she kept a constant prayer running through her thoughts, asking God to guide her and help her overcome her fears and doubts. As each day passed, her conviction grew stronger, coming to believe…it was right…to put her trust in Jonathan.
CHAPTER 14
Lord
and Lady Shelton came to her studio each morning promptly at nine. Their three children were well-behaved, and by Saturday, the sketches were complete, and she could start the painting. She was confident she would have the portrait finished before she wed.
The date they had set for the wedding was the eleventh of October, which would give them three weeks to rest before they would leave for Devonshire. Henry, Melody, and the children would arrive on the eighth, and Helen, Matthew, and their children on the ninth. Kathryn was anxious for them to meet Jonathan. She had received letters from both Melody and Helen, and wrote they were thrilled she had decided to wed.
Jonathan came to dinner every Sunday, and they, along with the duchess, attended the assembly rooms on Wednesday nights. While her intended did not enjoy going to the rooms, he went to please her. They also went for a drive several afternoons a week. Of course, they did not see each other alone, as it was too cold to use an open carriage, so Sarah went along with them.
On the last Sunday the banns were read, they took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather and took a walk. Of course, Jonathan could not go far because of his bad knee, so they walked around Royal Crescent and found a park bench. Sarah discreetly walked away to give them some privacy, while still staying within sight.
With a flourish, he wiped scattered leaves from the bench before she took her seat. “How are the children? Are they handling their loss any better? I wish I could see them, but things have been so hectic, it hasn’t been possible.”
Jonathan straightened his leg before answering. “Jane cries herself to sleep each night and keeps asking me to go to heaven and get her mama. I’ve tried to explain, but she doesn’t understand. It tears my heart apart when she asks me to bring them home.”
“Poor child. That must be very difficult for you. How is Frankford?” she asked.
His brow creased. “He’s withdrawn from everyone. He’s always been such a rambunctious young fellow, it’s hard to see him so downcast. He’s still diligent in his studies, but he shows no interest in his other usual pursuits. Perhaps, once you are around, he will grow less despondent. This dismal weather hasn’t help either. At least today is nice and their governess is taking them on a picnic.”
“How is Elaine?” she asked. “Is she still helping you with the children? I’m so pleased she wanted to be one of my attendants.”
He placed his arm on the back of the bench and his hand brushed her shoulder, sending chills down her spine. His slightest touch caused odd sensations to flutter in her belly. “She has. She fights tears whenever she sees Jane crying. She’s excited about our wedding and thrilled you asked her to take part. How’s the portrait coming along? Will you finish before the wedding?”
“Lord and Lady Shelton have their last sitting tomorrow. I shall finish it on Wednesday, and they can pick the portrait up Thursday morning. I think it’s my best work yet. Would you like to see it?”
“Definitely. I’m amazed you have managed to complete their portrait so quickly.” The corners of his mouth turned down. “I wish you could have finished my brother’s family portrait.”
Oh, dear, I forgot to tell him. “Oh, Jonathan, I do plan to finish it. I have some wonderful sketches and can easily use those. If you agree, we can travel to Bristol and bring it here, so I can finish it before I leave for Devonshire.”
“I’m so pleased. That means the world to me.” He smiled. “There shan’t be enough time to travel to Westland Acres, but Stebbins is there, and I will have him bring it.”
“Would you like to come with me when I go to my sister’s in November?” They had not discussed that before. Perhaps he would want to go. “I’m sure she would be happy to have all of us. Her children would love to play with Frankford and Jane. The Marquess and Marchioness of Ralston also have three boys, and I believe they’re close to Frankford’s age, so the children should be happy there.”
“I would love to come. I hoped you would ask. It would be good for the children, if you’re sure we would not be imposing upon your sister and her husband.” His arm brushed hers and gooseflesh danced along it. “Oh, by the way, I have chosen a room you can use as your studio. It has a full wall of windows and catches the morning sun.”
“That sounds perfect,” she replied. “Helen and Matthew will arrive on Thursday, and I will make sure they will not mind if you and the children come with me. I shall be busy spending each morning at the Ralston’s, so you will need to entertain yourself. Matthew likes to hunt. Is that something you enjoy?”
He patted her hand. “I know you will be busy, but I’m sure I can find ways to entertain myself, and I love to hunt. I can’t walk long distances, but I can stand still with no problem. Since you do quite a bit of that when hunting, I would enjoy it.”
“Well, good, at least I shan’t worry.” It relieved her mind that Jonathan understood this trip would not be a holiday.
He grinned. “I also love to ride, and I remember you telling me that Helen and her husband ride on the beach whenever the weather permits. Of course, that probably isn’t too often in November. In fact, it’s starting to grow cool, so we’d better go inside. I’m glad we had this chance to talk. I’ve missed spending time alone with you.”
She smiled. “I’ve missed it too. And you’re right; it is turning cool.”
“Your maid must be freezing.” He stood and offered her his hand. “Let us go inside.”
When they returned to the house, Kathryn showed him the portrait of the Sheltons. He stepped back and examined it. “This is remarkable, my dear. It looks finished now. You’ve caught Shelton perfectly. Once more people see your work, you will have so many commissions you shan’t want for patrons.”
“Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad you like it,” she replied. “I find everyone fascinating—ugly, pretty, old, or young—so I doubt I shall ever want to pick and choose my patrons.”
A look of distaste settled on his handsome face. “I can think of several individuals you might not want to paint. Some of the old dragons of society can be very difficult to appease.”
“Jonathan.” She giggled. “Have you forgotten my mother? She’s the epitome of what an old dragon is, and most of her friends are the same way, so I can’t imagine I would have any problems dealing with them.”
He chuckled. “That’s true, I wasn’t thinking of the duchess. She’s so courteous to me, I do not look at her in the same light.”
“It’s because she likes you,” she teased. “You’re a marquess, and my mother values rank above anything else.”
“Then I must stay on her good side,” he countered.
“She’s always treated Melody awful, and she’s the nicest person you could ever meet.” Then remembering her family with fondness, she added, “You will love the rest of the family. None of them are high in the instep.”
“I look forward to meeting them. While I met your brother, I didn’t know him well. What’s he like?” he asked.
“Henry is the most down-to-earth person you will ever meet. Although, if the need arises he can be intimidating. He had no fondness for Helen’s husband at first, but they’re the best of friends now and work together on bills for the Lords. Be forewarned, he shall encourage you to take a more active role. He feels strongly that it’s a peer’s primary responsibility.”
“As I mentioned before, since my bachelor days are behind me, I shall become more active.” Glancing at his watch, he added, “I’ve overstayed my welcome. What time do you expect your brother and his wife on Wednesday?”
They had reached the entryway by the time she responded. “I expect they will arrive in time for tea. Please join us.”
“Anything for you, my dear.” As he kissed her hand, chills flowed from the crown of her head to her toes. The feelings were growing stronger each time they were together. Once Jonathan departed, she sighed. If her uncle had not molested her, she would have enjoyed intimacy with him. It was unfair, but life was rarely fair.
Over the next few day
s, she finished the Sheltons’ portrait, and they picked it up Wednesday morning. Lord and Lady Shelton promised to recommend her to all their friends. Once word spread, she’d have all the commissions she could ever want.
Henry and Melody were arriving that afternoon. She had not seen them since late May when she graduated from the institute. Little William would turn a year old shortly after they arrived. She would try to plan a birthday celebration for him while everyone was together.
Jonathan arrived shortly before four. Henry and his family had not gotten there yet. The duchess held off tea, an unusual occurrence indeed. After thirty minutes passed, Kathryn heard a commotion in the entryway.
She grabbed his hand and tried to pull him up. “They’re here. Let us meet them.” When they went into the entry hall, Kathryn dropped his hand and ran into her brother’s arms. She laughed as she ran from Henry, to Melody, to Mary, and then the children, before returning to him. “Jonathan, my brother, the Duke of Sanderford. Oh, you met him, did you not?”
He bowed. “Your servant, Your Grace. We met in Brussels while waiting for Bonaparte to make his move.”
A puzzled expression flashed across her brother’s face. “I apologize. I remember very little of my time in Brussels. It’s a pleasure to meet you again. Let me introduce you to my wife.” Henry turned to Melody. “Darling, meet Lord Sutherland, Kathryn’s intended.”
Bowing low, Jonathan kissed her sister-in-law’s hand. “Pleased to meet you, Your Grace. Kathryn has told me much about you. She speaks highly of you.”
Her sister-in-law beamed. “Please, call me Melody. After all, on Saturday, you become my brother. Kathryn shared the horrific news concerning your brother and his wife. I’m so sorry for your loss. Thank goodness their sweet children have you.”
“I appreciate your kind words. It has been very difficult. Kathryn’s support has helped a great deal,” he replied. “If I’m to call you Melody, then please call me Jonathan.”
