AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Percy hesitated, tapping the toe of one boot against the heel of the other. His father had always advised him to wed. He had always planned on it. But the thought hadn’t crossed his mind for months now, ever since he had lost his sight. Would it be so very bad?
“You are certain she is agreeable? Not headstrong and opinionated? She won’t be nearly as meddlesome as you, I should hope.”
Harry chuckled. “I believe she will make you a suitable wife, indeed. The ceremony will be simple, and then she will move here to Wellington Manor. She will see to your affairs and you shall never be burdened by the sight of me in your house again.” He drew a quick breath. “Er—you shall never be burdened with my company again. Never hear my voice, never—”
“I understand your point, Harry.”
His cousin laughed, patting Percy awkwardly on the shoulder.
“Do not venture too far,” Percy said. “A man is always in need of a trustworthy friend.” He extended his hand for Harry to shake. “Very well. I shall marry this Miss Clarke. But if she is not equal to your description, then you have a sound facer coming your way.”
Harry chuckled. “You would never hurt me.”
“If I could find you, do not doubt that I would. Your face would resemble a plate of pudding, and I would not care, because I would not be required to look upon it.” Percy fought a smile. “Although in a fight, I am at a small disadvantage.”
“It is a good thing that I understand your humor,” Harry said. “Otherwise I would be trembling.”
“I suspect you are.”
“I am not.” Harry’s voice rose in defense.
“I will choose not to believe that.”
Harry sighed, his footsteps retreating. “I will claim victory on today’s battle, at least. You have agreed to be married.”
Had Percy really agreed to that?
“I will visit again before the wedding to inform you of the plans.” He paused, likely noticing the cold fear reflected on Percy’s face. “Not to worry. I assure you, this will be an advantageous arrangement. For now, I will leave you to it.”
Percy didn’t say anything more. He just gave a stiff nod and rubbed his jaw once again, deep in thought. He heard the door swing shut as Harry made his departure. Doubts crept into Percy’s mind with renewed vigor. What had possibly compelled him to accept such a ridiculous plan? He was to marry a stranger in a fortnight! And for what reason? It was all so absurd, and he questioned the coherency of his agreement. He swirled the glass he still held, feeling the cold liquid chill his hand. Percy’s life the past year had been an endless string of monotony. Perhaps the idea of something out of the ordinary happening had been what intrigued him. If this woman was as Harry had described her, then he would have nothing to worry about. Yes. All would be well.
In one fast motion, Percy tipped his head back and drained the rest of his port from the glass. After a fortnight to be alone with his thoughts, his mind would likely change on the subject. Perhaps he wouldn’t marry Miss Clarke after all. Comforted by the notion, Percy leaned his head back and tried to relax.
As he faded into sleep, he pictured the interior of a church, the stern brow of a vicar, and the smiling face of a woman in a pretty white gown he would never see.
CHAPTER3
On the day of her wedding, Fanny was not smiling. She pulled at the cuffs of her sleeves that were much too tight. It was a simple gown, white and trimmed with tiny beads and edged in thin points of lace. She stood in front of a looking glass. She avoided looking at the reflection of the right side of her face as Molly worked to arrange her golden blonde hair.
“You look radiant, miss. Stunning,” Molly said in a voice that was much too happy for Fanny’s taste. Usually Fanny tried her hardest to be happy, but right now she didn’t feel equal to the effort. “It is quite a shame your groom shall not see you.”
“I feel ill,” Fanny turned from the mirror and sat on the edge of her bed. She flipped the veil over her face and clasped her hands together, studying her fingernails to keep from crying. How frightening it all was. Leaving the place she had learned to call home once again, marrying a man she had never met, traveling to his house without the company of family or friends. It was much to undertake at the age of twenty. Had she not undertaken enough burdens already?
“Come now. I will be with you every step of the way.”
Fanny looked up at Molly’s face. Sincerity was written there, in every smile-born wrinkle and gleam of her brown eyes. Momentary comfort settled over Fanny’s shoulders like a gift. At least she could bring Molly with her.
“You may have to drag me there by the toes,” Fanny said with a nervous laugh.
“We mustn’t soil your gown! Otherwise, I would do it.” Molly smiled and held out her hand.
With a deep breath, Fanny stood and Molly looped her arm around hers.
“Are you ready?” Molly asked.
“I shall never know how ‘ready’ feels, so I’ll assume that yes, I am.” Fanny gave a soft smile. “Although I must own…Mrs. Wellingtonisa delightful name.”
Molly chuckled. “I was thinking the very same thing.”
