Page 22 of The Highlander’s Improper Wife

“Where have you been?” he demanded. “The breakfast is finished and we are about to depart.”

The viscount flashed a wicked grin. “A certain young lady at the chapel was in need of consoling. Seems her husband is spending far too much time with his mistress and ignoring her altogether.”

Taran gave him a deprecating look. “An angry husband will prove your undoing.”

William’s grin widened. “If I am fortunate, it will be the lady who proves my undoing.”

“Never mind that,” Taran snapped. “I need to know the identity of the Aphrodite you were dabbling with last night.”

“Aphrodite?” he repeated.

“You and she were behind the column early into the masque.”

“Ah, yes. She was a dainty piece. Sent me for punch, then disappeared.” William gave him an appraising look. “I wondered who had stolen her away from me.”

“I did not steal her away. She fled your company.”

William’s brow furrowed. “I will have you know no young lady has ever fled my company.”

“This one did.” William opened his mouth to reply, but Taran cut off the reply. “Who is she?”

“I have no idea.”

“None?”

“Not the slightest.”

“These masques are a jest,” Taran said. “Everyone knows who everyone is.”

“Generally, that is true. But I do not know her.” William smiled. “Made the game all the more intriguing, if you know what I mean.”

“She was talking on the balcony with another woman, Marie Antoinette,” Taran said. “Any idea who she is?”

“I believe there were at least four Marie Antoinettes at the masque.”

“They should not be difficult to locate. Find out who they are, and which one of them knows the Aphrodite.”

The viscount eyed him. “I understand you plan on carrying out your life as always, but you might at least wait until the marriage is consummated.”

“I do not plan on bedding her tonight,” Taran said peevishly, though he wondered if he wouldn’t do just that if she allowed it.

William looked past him. His brow shot up. “Your bride is approaching.” He nodded towards the house.

“Send word once you have found her,” Taran whispered, and turned.

He stopped short at sight of Caroline taking the last stair onto the walkway. The corset she wore narrowed her waist to the point he marveled she could walk, much less breathe. The bow on the back of the dress stuck out on each side of her small waist like wings in flight. But it was the hat she wore that made him stare. The straw brim dipped nearly to her nose and, at the back, reached to her shoulder blades. A bright red feather pointed skyward, then plunged downward almost to her elbow.

She stopped beside Taran. “Sir.”

He couldn’t take his eyes off the hideous hat. How in God’s name was she going to get into the carriage, much less sit on the seat comfortably?

“My lady,” William said.

Something flickered in her eyes and concern stabbed at Taran. Surely she couldn’t have overheard their conversation?

William lightly grasped her fingers and bowed over her hand. “Lord Edmonds, at your service.”

She inclined her head. “My lord.” She pulled her hand free and turned to Taran. He ignored the quizzical look William shot him as she said, “If you are ready, sir.” “I am off,” William said.