Page 30 of Maid for the Marquess

“Of course. I know it was surprise that colored your words.”

“Marry her?”

“I met with the parish bishop earlier today and obtained a common license. We’ll be marrying in the parish church seven days from now.”

“My lord, I have no doubt she is lovely, but marriage? So quickly?”

I sighed and sat back down in my chair. I told him of our conversations. How she tended to me. How fascinated I found myself with her.

“It solves so many issues. I like her, Edward. I find her interesting and highly intelligent. I believe she will be a good wife and an excellent marchioness. Despite everything, she is kind and thoughtful. Gentle. She reminds me in some ways of my mother. She will stand by my side. Bear my children.” I shook my head. “I cannot abide the thought of spending time with the empty-headed chits in London. Listen as their mamas push them in my direction, citing their talents like virtues as they scheme to outdo another interested party. Dream of my money and name.” I shuddered. “Last season was almost my undoing.”

“You lasted three days, my lord, and left town. The ladies of the ton were most aggrieved.”

“I was most relieved.”

He chuckled.

“Miss Smythe is different from them all. I enjoy conversing with her. The servants already love her and are anxious to welcome her as their mistress. As am I.”

He looked thoughtful then nodded. “Then let me be the first to offer congratulations. I wish you all the best.”

“Thank you.” I tapped my thumb on the desktop as I gathered my thoughts.

“She is still fearful and wary. I hope now that Lydia is here, she will settle. I think when Geraldine arrives, the familiarity of a beloved face will help soothe her nerves as well.”

“You will be a good husband, my lord.”

“I intend to be. In that vein, I have written Beckett, requesting his wife’s help with a wardrobe for Madeleine. I explained we are to be married and require her help. I expect a swift reply.”

“She would need direction, I should presume. Measurements?” he asked, his brow furrowed. “Lydia would be able to do that.”

“I described her well, I think. Enough that Constance should be able to begin the preparations. I am not concerned.”

“You’ve thought of everything, it would seem.”

“I believe I have.”

“And this has all transpired in a matter of mere days,” Edward added. “You’re certain you wish to marry her?”

I could not find fault with my friend for his concern. I’d had no intention of marrying any time soon when we parted during the journey back to Wheaton. It was not like me, but I also couldn’t deny the rightness that existed between Madeleine and myself.

“I can see what you’re thinking, and let me reassure you that I’ve never been more certain of anything in my life.”

CHAPTER 11

MADELEINE

“You look so lovely in this blue evening gown,” Lydia told me as I stood before a looking glass, sure that the young lady staring back at me was someone else.

Anyone but me.

The gown had been a bit too large for my smaller form, but Lydia was a deft hand with sewing, and with a few alterations, it now looked as if it had been commissioned for me alone. Lydia had expertly plaited my hair into a circular braid, leaving a few curls free to frame my face. I wore a new pair of slippers that were so fine they felt as if they were fashioned of clouds. I had dabbed some lilac scent I had made myself and brought with me from Cliffwood on my wrists and throat.

“I don’t look like myself,” I said, still awed by the transformation that had occurred ever since I had arrived at Wheaton.

Having Lydia and Geraldine here pleased me greatly. Over the course of the last few days, I had settled into a comfortable, familiar routine. I no longer felt quite as much like a stranger or a usurper at Wheaton. I no longer woke each morning thinking I was in a dream.

It was real, as real as my reflection staring back at me was.