by Vikki Vaught
He made excellent time until the clouds burst open, dumping buckets of rain as he entered the long drive to the house. By the time he reached the mansion, chilling water had even managed to seep under his greatcoat.
A groom appeared as he rode under the portico and took Apollo’s reins. The young lad assured him he would see to his horse. He sucked in a deep breath as he made his way up the steps and lifted the knocker. The sound echoed through the massive, wooden doors.
Someone—the butler he was sure—opened the door, allowing him entry. The man took his soaked greatcoat as it dripped over the immaculately clean, black and white marble floor. At least his clothes underneath had remained reasonably dry. He fished around his pocket until he located one of his cards and handed it to the butler. The man showed him to a drawing room and told him he would see if the duke would receive him.
Matthew looked around the well-appointed room, noticing the highly polished mahogany furniture and deeply cushioned sofa. The room was elegantly furnished, but it looked comfortable, and had a lived-in feel to it, which eased the tension riddling his body.
The butler reappeared. “If you will follow me, my lord. I shall take you to His Grace.”
They approached a massive carved wooden door. The man knocked, and he heard a deep voice rumble, “Come in.”
The butler stepped inside and announced, “Lord Collingswood is here to see you, Your Grace.”
A tall, muscular man—clearly Helen’s brother—stood as he approached the desk. “I do not recognize your name. Have we been introduced?” With a sweeping hand, the man motioned for him to sit.
Matthew swallowed the lump forming in his throat and took the proffered seat. “We haven’t had the pleasure. However, over the last two weeks, I have become acquainted with Lady Helen. That’s why I’ve come. I would like to pay my addresses to your sister.”
The duke’s bright blue eyes pierced him. “You’ve only known each other for a short time. How can you be sure you will suit?”
He returned the man’s steely gaze. “We’ve seen each other every day for the last fortnight, and we’ve grown to respect and like each other a great deal. You would be surprised how well you can come to know someone in a short time, especially when one is looking for commonalities.”
The duke cocked a brow. “And those commonalities are?”
Matthew sat tall. “We both have a great love to ride, and many of the same desires regarding marriage and family.”
“I need to know more before I give my consent,” he retorted. His tone a little off-putting, but still pleasant.
At least the man is willing to entertain my suit, thank God. “I can appreciate that. I recently inherited my title when my father passed last year, so I’m the eighth Earl of Collingswood. To give you more background, I spend most of my time in Devonshire at my family seat—”
He interrupted, “While my sister likes the country, she also enjoys the London season. It sounds like you do not normally participate. I know she would miss it if she did not attend.”
The duke made a valid point, but Helen seemed to be pleased with what he’d told her regarding his home, so he believed she would be content to spend the majority of the year on his estate. Perhaps he should ask to be sure. “I realize Lady Helen enjoys town, and once she’s given me an heir, I shan’t have a problem with her participating each year. While I haven’t taken my seat in Parliament yet, I plan to do so once I have my estate running smoothly.”
The duke steepled his fingers. “Is your estate in poor condition?”
Even though the inquisition had his blood simmering, outwardly, he kept his calm demeanor. “Over the last few years of my father’s life, he let things run down a bit, and even though I tried to convince him to modernize, he refused to listen to any of my suggestions. He was very set in his ways. While I’m not wealthy, I can comfortably afford to take care of your sister and any children we may have.”
The duke continued to fire one question after another at him. Matthew carefully explained he’d hired a new steward his solicitor had recommended, a man who agreed with his ideas on increasing his crop yields and modernization.
At last, the duke’s posture relaxed. “I can see you have a carefully constructed plan. I’m sure you would make an acceptable husband, but I still feel this is terribly fast. Why do you want to marry my sister?”
Suspecting her brother would not accept less than complete honesty, he stated, “I’m a widowed father of twin daughters. They need a mother’s love now that they’ve turned five. Helen has assured me she adores children.”
The duke retorted, “While I understand your desire for your daughters, my sister deserves to be wanted for herself, not only as a mother for someone’s children.”
He leaned forward. “I agree completely. We’ve become good friends, and I esteem her greatly.”
Henry leaned back in his chair and gave him an assessing look. “My sister needs to be sure she’s making the right decision, and I don’t believe knowing each other two weeks will do that. I shan’t contemplate a match without additional time. I also want to verify everything you’ve told me before I give you my blessing.”
Matthew pulled at his damp cravat, trying to loosen its stranglehold. “Helen and I have discussed this, and we are resolved. I came here as a courtesy to you. Helen is of age and does not need your permission.”
The duke slowly stood and placed his hands on the surface of his desk and glared at him. “You will not wed my sister without my permission!”
He stood and returned the man’s glare. “We will wed with or without your consent. Helen told me she’d spoken with you regarding her desires. She assured you she wants companionship instead of love. I’m willing to offer that.” He reined in his anger and softened his tone. “I ask you for Helen’s sake—give us your blessing. This is important to her.”
“When you put it like that, I don’t have much choice.” The duke took a step forward, close enough that he could see his stony stare. “You need to know: if you ever hurt her in any way, I will come after you, and you will regret you were ever born. Do I make myself clear? Oh, and I’ll verify the information you have provided. My sister is an heiress, and I will stop this union if I believe you’re a fortune hunter.”
Matthew adjusted the sleeve of his dark green riding coat, giving himself a moment to better control his anger, then declared, “There’s no reason for you to threaten me. I understand you completely, Your Grace,” he sneered. “I am not a fortune hunter.” He took a deep, cleansing breath. “If you will give me paper, I shall give you the name of my solicitor. He will provide any information you need, and he’ll handle the marriage settlements.”
“You can count on me to investigate you thoroughly and not only with your solicitor’s information.” With a supercilious expression, the duke handed him paper and a quill and wrote the information down and handed it back.
“I give you my word as a man of honor, I will never hurt your sister, Your Grace,” Matthew tried to alleviate the tension in the room by keeping his tone even. “Your sister will be my wife, and I will always show her the respect and consideration she deserves. Now, if you will excuse me, I shall take my leave. I promised your sister I would take her to the opera this evening.” He bowed and strode from the room.
The return trip went well since the rain had stopped, and the sun had appeared. When he arrived in town, he went to his hotel and took a soak. While in his bath, he replayed his conversation with Helen’s brother. He’d had to reel in his temper to keep from lashing out at the duke on more than one occasion.
While he understood why Sanderford had reacted that way, he did not appreciate his threats. While he may not love Helen, he admired her prodigiously. At least he knew when the duke had him investigated—as he so politely put it—he would discover he’d spoken the truth.
Leaning against the tub, he allowed his mind to drift to Helen. He became aroused thinking of her. She exuded an inner fire that spoke
of passion. He would enjoy having her in his bed, and in his life. Yes, he would definitely enjoy having her as his wife. Between her startling blue eyes and her red-gold curls floating around her lovely heart-shaped face, his attraction to her increased each time he spent time with her. A wave of desire shot to his loins.
Of course, it was not only her physical beauty that attracted him, he found her keen mind and wit very appealing. Getting to know her better would be no hardship, but a delight. He glanced at the clock on the mantel. Time to get dressed and let Helen know her brother had grudgingly given his blessing. He prayed that with time his future brother-in-law would look favorably on him. It would be up to him to prove he was trustworthy.
Matthew stood up and the water sluiced down his body. Stepping from the tub, he grabbed a towel and wiped the moisture away. After he shaved, he donned his evening attire, and whistling, he made his way from his hotel. Calling for his carriage, he grinned; he looked forward to spending a few hours with his future wife. Perhaps he would even steal a kiss.
CHAPTER 5
Late May 1820
Helen took her time preparing for the evening. She had her maid draw her a bath and washed her hair. She used fresh lemons to rinse it so the golden highlights would shine. After she finished, Sally helped her don her gown.
Madame Devy had delivered one of her new dresses. The aquamarine voile with a deep gold underskirt was a striking combination and went well with her complexion. The beautiful strand of matched pearls her parents had given her when she’d turned seventeen added the finishing touch to her ensemble.
Once she was ready, she went to the drawing room to wait for Matthew. A shiver of anticipation sent her pulse fluttering as she contemplated seeing him again. She hoped the meeting with her brother had gone well. While Henry knew of her wishes, he might have given him a difficult time.
The earl arrived promptly at seven, and Bradford showed him into the drawing room. His green eyes glowed dark and intense, giving him a fierce look. Oh, dear, perhaps the visit didn’t go well.
Helen met his gaze. “How did your meeting go? While my brother isn’t overbearing with me, I know he can be that way with others. Did he give us his blessing?”
“Your brother was arrogant and tried to be very intimidating, but he did give us his blessing.” He clenched his fists. “Of course, he threatened me with my life if I hurt you in any way, as he so politely phrased it. At one point, I think he contemplated coming to blows when I told him we would wed even if he didn’t give it.”
She groaned. “Oh, Matthew, you didn’t really tell him that. No wonder you angered him. Henry doesn’t like ultimatums. I’m sure he did want to do you bodily harm. I hope you reassured him.”
“I made sure he understood I would protect you and keep you safe,” he grumbled. “But he let me know he would have me investigated thoroughly. Of course, I expected that.”
She should have anticipated her brother’s reaction and sent word in advance of his visit. That was not well done of her. It would have paved his way and given her brother a chance to come to terms with her decision. Too little, too late.
“My brother will calm down and accept our decision, once he does his investigation.” Wanting to assuage the tension, she added, “Now, shall we discuss our nuptials?”
After they sat on the sofa, Matthew took her hand and squeezed it lightly. “May we wed by the end of June? I will be out of mourning by then, and I don’t see any reason to put it off any longer. I need to return to Christina and Catherine.”
A thrill shot through her at his touch, but she dismissed it as foolishness. “I see no reason to wait either. The thirtieth will do well for both of us and still give me time to arrange a small wedding. I want to exchange vows at St. Nicolas, the parish church in Cranleigh. If that’s acceptable, I shall return to Sanderford Park the day after tomorrow and begin preparations. I’ll also talk to my brother and reassure him.”
“Excellent. I’m glad you do not want a large ton affair.” Relief colored his tone. “The only person I care to invite is Bradley Fox.” He grinned. “We’ve been best friends since our school days. He’s in town so he can easily stand up with me.”
“Are you sure there’s no one else you want to invite?” she asked.
He shook his head. “I don’t have any family other than my brother and sister, and they’re still at school. Margaret attends an establishment in Bath, and Gregory is at Cambridge.”
This struck her as odd. She would never consider marrying without her family present. “Are you sure? I want to meet them.”
Her betrothed shrugged. “My sister’s too far away. Gregory may choose to attend, since he’s closer. You’ll meet Margaret when her term ends in July.”
Although still in a quandary as to why he would not want them there, she let it go. “Whatever you think is best.”
“Thank you. Since we’re now officially engaged,” his voice turned husky, “may I kiss you?”
She acquiesced, and his mouth settled on hers. His lips were warm and moist and a surge of heat ran through her. It was a brief, gentle kiss; she would have preferred more passion. Of course, this was not a love match, so perhaps it was better if he did not kiss her that way. He stood. “Shall we be off? My carriage awaits, my dear.”
When they arrived at the Royal Opera House in Covent Gardens, they ran into Susan and her husband. Helen turned to her betrothed. “This is Lord and Lady Hastings. She volunteers at St. Mark’s orphanage with me.” She smiled at Susan and her husband as she added, “Please, let me introduce you to the Earl of Collingswood.”
Matthew shook hands with Lord Hastings. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Then he addressed her friend, “Lady Helen has mentioned you on several occasions. I know she values your friendship greatly.”
Helen spoke up. “Lord Collingswood and I have agreed to wed. The ceremony will be on the thirtieth of June in Cranleigh. I hope you’ll be one of my attendants. Please say you’ll come.”
Susan squealed. “Oh, Helen, congratulations. I would be honored. You never said a word to me, you sly thing. Have you picked your colors for the wedding yet?”
“Not yet,” she replied, “I’m returning to Sanderford Park the day after tomorrow, and Melody and I will plan everything. I’ll send word to you as soon as I make the arrangements.”
“I’ll be happy to help,” she enthused. “Just let me know what I can do.”
“Thank you.” The orchestra finished tuning up. “We need to go to our box. The performance is starting. I’ll tell you more tomorrow at the orphanage. See you there.”
They had a pleasant evening at the opera, and when he returned her to Lady Helton’s, he kissed her. “Thank you for agreeing to become my wife. I promise to do all within my power to make you happy.” He stepped back. “I’ll take my leave now, and I shall see you on the twenty-ninth.”
As she watched him leave, she wondered what it would be like if he had kissed her with passion. She shook off that silly thought. That was not what she needed. All she wanted was a nice, safe, unemotional marriage. She would save her love for her children.
When Helen arrived at the orphanage the next day, Susan rushed to her and gave her a hug. “I can’t believe you’re getting married. You’ve only known Lord Collingswood for a couple of weeks. I’m happy for you, although, I must say I’m shocked.”
Helen hesitated, contemplating her next words. “It’s not a love match. I’m marrying the earl because I want children, and I can’t do that without a husband. Since my betrothed already has twin daughters, I’ll be a mother right away. We have a great deal in common. I shall be quite content. Please, be happy for me.”
Disappointment infused Susan’s face. “I know how hurt you were over that dastardly duke’s betrayal. I just wish you loved Lord Collingswood. Of course, he is deliciously handsome. I can always hope love will grow once you’re wed. Of course, I wish you happy.”
Relief swept through her at her friend’s easy capitul
ation. She prayed for the same reaction from Melody. “I promise this is what I want.” Then smiling she added, “He lives in Devonshire next to the sea, and I can’t wait to see his home.”
“How delightful,” she told her. “Arthur took me to Brighton last summer, and I found it exhilarating.” Her expression turned pensive. “I do wish you knew him a bit better.”
“I know two weeks doesn’t seem like much time, but we saw one another every day with the intent to see if we would suit. I promise, this is what I want.” Helen smiled. “Now, help me decide on colors. The wedding will be small, and you and Kathryn will be my only attendants.”
When Helen went out to the coach the next morning for her trip to Sanderford Park, Matthew greeted her. “I know you didn’t expect to see me, but I wanted to wish you a safe journey.”
“Thank you. It means a great deal that you took the time.” She smiled, feeling a bit awkward, although pleased nonetheless. “Well, I shall see you at the end of the month.”
He took her hand and raised it to his lips. “I shall see you soon. Let me help you into the carriage.” After she settled against the tufted cushions of her brother’s luxurious conveyance, he closed the door and stepped away. She waved to him as the carriage pulled away and weaved into traffic.
It was sweet of him to come and see her off. She had not expected it, but it showed he would be an attentive husband. While they might not have a love match, they had mutual respect for each other.
Yes, marriage with the earl will have many rewards.
As the carriage carried her south, Helen tried to catch up on her reading on the drive through the countryside, but unable to concentrate, she laid her book aside. Trepidation at seeing Henry and Melody consumed her. Neither of them would be enthused with her decision. She could no longer remain still. She found herself tapping her feet against the coach floor.
