Page 10 of Ruined by the Wrong Earl

‘I fear you aren’t listening. My scientific endeavors are—’

‘The truth is I do not wish to be married either, but I believe it is too late.’

Her eyes widened. ‘How so?’

‘Your interests are in science. I have my own interests to protect. I am a member of the House of Lords and preparing a bill. Scandal will hurt my efforts.’

She shook her head, the strands of red in her auburn hair shining from the sunlight streaming through the open drapes. ‘I’m sorry to hear this, but I do not mind a scandal.’

His stomach churned in frustration. This wasn’t going the way he’d wanted at all. It was true he did not wish to marry this swiftly. And when he did wed, he had always believed he’d wanted a lady of breeding whose family connection would help his political aspirations. But things had veered off course, and he was left with little choice but to adjust. Last night’s misconduct had been too public—a duchess’s house party no less—and the consequences would swiftly follow. He had to contain this.

Perhaps there was a benefit to his wife having a profession. She wouldn’t require constant attention, flowers or poetry. Her science would keep her occupied so he could focus on his own work. The less time they spent together the better, and they could cohabitate without conflict. Her intellect would ensure he wouldn’t be bored by mundane conversation when they did have to speak. Another bonus was that, once married, he would no longer have to dodge the overeager mamas of the ton at every ball who sought him for his title and wealth. And married politicians were deemed more respectable. If he got married while Parliament was in session, the timing could help his bill.

He had to convince her. He was a politician after all, and skilled at debate. If she was strongly opposed to marriage, then he must use all his powers of persuasion. There was much he could offer her, and if she was a scientist like she’d claimed, then she must be logical. He just needed to make it worth her while.

He leveled his tone. ‘What if it is to your benefit to marry?’ He stood and walked over to her. At over six feet tall, he leaned across a chest of drawers so as not to appear intimidating to her.

‘How?’ she asked.

‘I will not stand in the way of your science. In fact, you will be free to pursue your study of shells from the comfort and security of marriage.’ He thought of what else would be hard to resist and considered her financial concerns. ‘I will even fund your research. As a countess, doors will be open to you in Society that would not be as an unmarried woman.’

She gave him a considering glance. ‘You would fund my research? Would I have an allowance?’

‘I am a wealthy man and will be generous.’

‘What if I drain your wealth?’

He chuckled, the tenseness in his chest easing a notch. ‘I’m not concerned.’ Of that he was certain. He’d wisely invested in the London Stock Exchange and had increased the earldom’s coffers by nearly twofold.

She swallowed. ‘And what of an heir?’

It would be best if he were honest. ‘Yes, the earldom requires an heir. But after one is born, you can pursue your own endeavors wherever and whenever you choose.’ He would not keep her tied to his bed. Although that image was arousing.

He could tell she was intrigued and he thought of something she could not resist. ‘You will also be free to host salons, dinners or gatherings with your scientific peers. It would be a marriage of convenience.’

She nodded slowly. ‘And you? How would marriage benefit you?’ she asked.

Again, he answered straightforwardly. ‘My political career is important to me. As I said, I am on the verge of proposing a bill, and I must avoid any hint of scandal. The bill means much to me, not only do I believe in the cause, but I admit if it passes it will help my career in the House of Lords. So you see, I do not seek a love match, but a businesslike union that will benefit both parties.’

He could imagine her sharp mind considering his offer. He needed to seal the deal, argue his final point. ‘Think of the benefits. What do you say, Miss Magarian? Will you agree to marry?’

A heartbeat passed. Two. He held his breath unsure if his argument had been persuasive enough. Then, at last, a slight nod of her head caused a thrill of victory in his chest as she said. ‘Yes, my lord. I agree to marry you.’

Chapter Four

‘You agreed?’ Candace asked later that day. The two were in Nora’s bedchamber.

‘I know it seems like an abrupt turnabout, but yes. Lord Ralston’s argument to marry was compelling.’ Nora had also been surprised at his offer. Just as surprised as she had been at her own consent. He convincingly argued that he would support her biology research, even fund it. And as a countess she would have influence. The only catch: They’d have to share a bed to procure an heir.

‘I may not believe in selfless love, but you are different,’ Candace said.

Nora picked up a ribbon from her chest of drawers and ran it through her fingers. ‘Love? I’d never risk such a foolish emotion. It would jeopardize my scientific career.’

‘Hmm. I see.’

‘And what of the requisite heir?’ Candace sat on the edge of Nora’s bed and eyed her with sisterly concern.

Nora let out a long sigh. ‘I’m not opposed to children. In fact, the more I think about it, the nicer it sounds. I can teach him or her all about science and even the sea. My love would be for my child and my work only.’