Three Weeks to Wed (20 page)

He took her still ungloved hand and kissed it. “You are amazingly beautiful. That color suits you. Though the bodice could be a bit higher.”

His fingers hovered as if he'd try to pull it up. She rapped them with her fan. “I thought you'd like it.”

“I do.” He leaned closer and whispered, “And I'd like to take it off you.”

Licking her suddenly dry lips, she remembered to breathe. “After we are married, you may.”

“I'll hold you to that, my lady. You do realize that one week from tonight we will be man and wife.”

She was about to answer when the knocker sounded and her aunt and uncle entered. “Aunt Almeria, Uncle Bertrand, I think the others are already in the drawing room.”

Matt bowed to her aunt and shook hands with her uncle. “Yes, the girls and my stepmother.” He turned to Grace. “The younger children would like to see you and their sisters before we go.”

Of course they would. “I remember waiting to see my mama dressed for a party.” She nodded to her butler. “Royston, please send them down.”

“Yes, my lady.”

A footman opened the door to the drawing room as Grace and Matt approached. She'd seen Charlotte earlier, but not Louisa. Charlotte's gown was of willow green, and Louisa wore light blue. They looked beautiful.

Matt grinned. “I know I told you before, but the two of you look lovely.”

The girls blushed.

Grace scanned the room. “Where is Merton? I thought he was joining us.”

“I caught him blowing a cloud in the house and sent him packing. I believe he's at Limners.”

Grace squeezed his arm. “Just as well. I cannot abide cigar smoke. It's such a nasty habit. I hope it never catches on.”

“I've also told him,” Matt said in a wintry voice, “not to try to engage either Charlotte's or Louisa's attentions.”

Grace raised her brows. “Thank you. Just don't tell them. It is always so that one immediately wants what is forbidden for one to have.”

A wicked gleam entered his eyes. “Indeed.”

A species of dread rose in her. Grace tried to keep her tone light. “And what happens when it is no longer forbidden?”

Matt's eyes undressed her before he pulled her closer. “This novelty will never end.”

Her heart beat faster, and she prayed he was right. Still her aunt's words ran amok in her head.

It was at times like this when Matt knew Grace's confidence had suddenly and inexplicably fled. His compulsion to hold her and comfort her surged within him. He'd be perfectly happy to pick Grace up and carry her to his house, their chamber, and keep her there until they married. But he couldn't even take her in his arms with her aunt and uncle present.

Patience cleared her throat. “Do you accompany us or have you different plans?”

Grace turned to her. “We are attending Lady St. Eth's drum this evening. To-morrow we'll be at Lady Featherton's soirée.”

Patience nodded. “That's a good plan. You will have a quiet evening with the political set, allowing the rest of us to drop hints about your romance. Then to-morrow you'll be present at the largest entertainment of the evening.”

The rest of the children piled into the room. The girls exclaimed over their sisters' gowns, while the boys sidled up to Matt.

“They are very pretty, for sisters, I mean,” Walter said.

Matt's gaze was drawn to Grace. “They are indeed.”

Philip made a face. “If you like that sort of thing. I have more important things to do than look at gowns.”

“I suppose you do.” Matt had a difficult time maintaining a straight face. Philip's ideas would change dramatically in a few years.

Royston announced that all the carriages were ready. Grace and Matt waited until the others left before descending the stairs to her town coach.

He climbed in after her and gave the order to start. “Are you ready?”

“I'd better be. We've no choice.”

A half hour later, Matt and Grace were at the head of the receiving line at St. Eth House. Lord and Lady St. Eth greeted them, then they were directed to the ballroom.

Worthington scanned the other guests, recognizing most of those present. “I'll introduce you to whomever you don't know.”

“Thank you. I am acquainted with several people, but it has been a while.”

Through the expedient of twining Grace's arm with his, Matt kept her next to him. No point in allowing anyone to get the idea he would be a complaisant husband. If any of the gentlemen of the
ton
wanted to dally, they could find someone else's wife.

A moment later, two of his friends approached. “My love, allow me to introduce Lord Huntley and Lord Wivenly. Lady Grace Carpenter, my betrothed.”

Huntley raised a surprised brow and smiled. “Lady Grace, Worthington, I wish you happy.”

By this time, Wivenly, whose jaw had dropped, closed his mouth. “Yes, very happy, indeed.”

Grace curtseyed and held out her hand. “I am pleased to meet you. Any friend of Worthington's will be welcome in our home.”

“Thank you, my lady.” Huntley took her hand then slanted a look at Matt. “I'd kiss your hand, but Worthington might call me out.”

He was surprised to find that he
had
been watching Huntley intently and gave a short laugh. “As long as you do nothing more than a salute, you'll be safe.”

A wicked smile dawned on Wivenly's face when he bowed to Grace. “When is the wedding?”

Then the devil kissed Grace's hand, and Matt had trouble keeping a growl from escaping. At least she was wearing gloves. “One week from to-day.”

“This is sudden,” Wivenly said, unable to hide his surprise.

“No, not at all,” Matt replied, smoothly tucking Grace's hand more securely in his arm. “We met a few years ago, but circumstances kept us apart.” He was pleased to see Grace gazing lovingly up at him. “The minute I saw her again, I knew no other woman would do. We've no reason to wait and several very good reasons why we should not.”

Huntley raised a brow in inquiry.

“Lady Grace's sister is making her come out, as is my sister. Having our wedding before the Season is under way makes it easier for us to chaperone them.”

“Makes perfect sense to me,” Huntley said, “four eyes are better than two.”

Wivenly, though, grinned with unholy mirth. “You? Chaperone?”

Narrowing his eyes, Matt shot back. “I seem to remember you have a sister as well.”

His friend lost his smile and closed his mouth. Good, Grace didn't need to know about Matt's peccadilloes. Particularily after what her aunt had most likely told her. And, after all, they were in the past.

Huntley gave a bark of laughter. “He's got you there, Will. When does she come out? Next year, isn't it?”

Wivenly emitted a sound that resembled a low snarl. “Yes. But it was not necessary for you to mention it.”

Grinning, Matt turned back to Grace. “Shall we stroll, my love?”

Her eyes sparkled, and she inclined her head to his friends. “As you wish, my love.”

As they started to leave, a lady in her late twenties strolled up to them. “Lady Grace, Lord Worthington, how good to see you here.”

Grace stared for a moment, as if trying to place the woman, then smiled. “Lady Fairport. It's wonderful to see you again.”

The Countess of Fairport was one of Phoebe's elder sisters.

“Is Fairport here?” Worthington asked.

“Yes, he'll be over in a moment. Phoebe asked us to look out for you, and we were happy to oblige.” Her ladyship glanced at Grace. “I understand you are both interested in being more active in the party. We can always use a few more good political hostesses.”

Grace nodded. “That is one of the things we wish to do. You know, of course, about the children. Still, we wish to be as active as we are able.”

When Fairport joined them, Matt greeted him. Fairport's father had been one of his sponsors when he took his seat in the Lords.

Several moments later, Grace and Lady Fairport paused. Taking advantage in the break in their conversation Fairport bowed. “Lady Grace, I'm glad to see you back in Town.”

“Thank you, my lord. May I say you haven't changed a bit? Neither of you have, my lady.”

Fairport dipped his head slightly, and said in a low voice, “We're in for it now. Here comes Lady Bellamny.”

Grace's arm tensed, and she glanced at Matt. “She will want all the details.”

“We should have practiced our roles.” He tried to make light of their pending doom. “Don't worry about a thing,” he said with more bravado than he felt. “Agree with me, and we will carry it off.”

“Gladly.” Her eyes twinkled. “You are much more inventive than I.”

“Charm, my love, I plan to charm her.” Matt gave the old dragon his most elegant bow. “My lady, how nice to see you.”

Lady Bellamny fixed her sharp, basilisk gaze on him. “Don't try to flummery me, Worthington. I've known you since you were in leading strings. You have no wish at all to see me. Am I to take it the rumors are true?”

“To which rumors are you referring, my lady?” he said with what he thought was sufficient sangfroid

Her cane struck the floor, missing his foot by a hair. “Are you or are you not betrothed?”

Lips twitching, he attempted to keep a broad smile from his face. “Yes. We are.”

“Good.” She turned to Grace. “I never did like the decision you made to remain single. Your mother wouldn't have wanted it. When is the wedding?”

Before Grace could say a word, he answered, “Tuesday.”

Lady Bellamny's chins jiggled as she chuckled. “Giving her no chance to get away I see. Well done, my boy. What are you doing about Lady Grace's brothers and sisters?”

“I am applying for guardianship.” Conversing with Lady Bellamny was like being interrogated by Bow Street Runners.

Her shrewd eyes studied him for a moment. “Excellent. The children need a man, and so do you, my dear.”

Grace blushed deeply, and he wondered if she was thinking about this afternoon.

Smiling kindly, Lady Bellamny patted Grace's arm. “You'll find out what I'm talking about soon enough. Now what story am I to put around?”

Grace cleared her throat, her voice a bit timorous. “I developed a tendre for him in my first Season . . . and now that we've found each other again, we see no reason to wait.”

“That will work.” Lady Bellamny nodded approvingly. “Anyone who counts knows Vivers men fall hard and fast. I shall do my part. I wish you happy. You have both made a very good match.”

Grace curtseyed and Worthington bowed, as Lady Bellamny sailed off.

Lady Fairport covered her face with her fan and giggled. “She is the most embarrassing lady I know.”

Unfurling her fan as well, Grace applied it to her face. “But she's well-meaning, and if anyone can scotch rumors we don't want, it will be her.”

Fairport gave a low chuckle. “Indeed. No one has the nerve to gainsay her. I think your story is in good hands.”

Matt covered Grace's hand with his. “Are you all right?”

She lowered her fan. Her eyes danced with merriment. “I don't know what to think about her comment that I needed a man.”

Bending his head, he murmured in her ear, “I know what she meant.”

He couldn't help smiling smugly when she blushed again.

They stayed through supper, then found Lady St. Eth and bid her a good evening.

“We had a wonderful time, my lady.”

“We did, indeed,” Grace said, as Lady St. Eth embraced her.

“If I can be of help”—she gave Grace a speaking look—“please send word, my dear. Your mother was a good friend of mine, as well as Worthington's. Don't hesitate to ask.”

“We won't, thank you,” Grace responded gratefully.

There scheme was going much better than he'd expected. Having Lady Bellamny on their side was a boon.

Several hours later, Matt helped Grace into the carriage. “Nary a hint of scandal. Does that make you feel better?”

“Yes.” Grace gave him a half-smile. “I have to admit I was a bit nervous. Especially when your two friends questioned you about the timing.”

He gave the signal to go, and the coach moved forward. Matt lost no time getting her back into his arms. “I promise. Nothing will hurt you.”

For a few moments, Grace seemed preoccupied with smoothing her skirts, then she glanced up. “I know you would never do anything to purposely hurt me.”

They were back to that. He wished she'd tell him what her aunt said so he could address her fears. All he could do was show her. He kissed her fully, trying to make Grace understand how precious she was to him.

Royston opened the door as they ascended the steps. “My lady, my lord, Lady Worthington, Ladies Charlotte and Louisa, and Lord and Lady Herndon are in the drawing room. Tea was just now served. Miss Carpenter asked me to tell you not to wait up for her.”

“I wonder where Jane could have gone?” Grace handed her cloak to Royston.

“Probably visiting friends,” Matt said.

A footman took his hat.

They entered the drawing room, eager to discover how the entertainment had gone for the girls.

Patience handed Grace a cup. “How was your evening?”

“It went well.” Grace glanced around the room. “How was yours?”

Her aunt smiled broadly. “I haven't had so much fun in years. Charlotte and Louisa were, without a doubt, the loveliest young ladies present. I predict we will have gentlemen calling and leaving their cards by the dozens.”

“I had several matrons ask me about your romance,” Patience said in an excited tone. “Naturally, I told them I was vastly pleased that the two of you had found each other again, and that the wedding would be very small because of your duties to your sisters and the rest of the children.”

Lord Herndon addressed Worthington. “One of the law lords was in the card room. He recommended you file before Good Friday. You'll need two witnesses to your betrothal. I shall be one.”

Worthington nodded. “Thank you, sir.”

“It was my pleasure. Take the children around this week. Not for the court but for the
ton.
”

Furrowing his brow in thought, Worthington said, “Indeed. Perhaps a visit to the museum for Louisa and Charlotte and Gunter's for the younger ones.”

“But Matt,” Louisa objected, “Charlotte and I want to go to Gunter's as well.”

Grace took his hand. “What about a trip to Richmond and a picnic? That would be the perfect outing for my landau.”

He'd heard about her carriage, but couldn't understand why a younger lady would want one. “Why did you buy a landau?”

“I decided I needed one when Phoebe took us to the carriage maker's. There was one there I almost bought, but on further reflection, I had mine built so that it will hold all the children at one time.” Grace raised her chin. “I realize they are thought to be for older ladies, but mine is very stylish, I assure you, and I am quite tired of everyone making fun of it.”

“Well”—he grinned—“your stylish landau will have to have my crest put on it. Which reminds me, Lord Herndon, may we complete the settlements to-morrow or the next day?”

“Yes, yes, indeed. I received all your information and have a proposal ready. Grace?”

“Yes, Uncle?”

“Come around in the morning after breakfast, and I'll go over them with you.” He smiled, taking a sip of wine.

“I cannot. I have a meeting with the architect for the remodeling that must be done at Worthington House first thing. May I come after that?”

Matt had been paying only half an ear to the conversation as he sipped his brandy, but mention of remodeling caused him to sputter. “Architect?”

His betrothed opened her eyes wide. “Why yes, you told me to do as I wished. Don't you remember? It was when I tried to show you the plans.”

It was when he'd been attempting to get her into his bed. Yet he had no intention of getting on her bad side now. “Of course, I remember. Do you mind if I join you?”

Her smile dazzled him, and he wanted to see it more often. “I would love for you to join us.”

“Worthington,” Patience asked. “Have you sent the announcement to the
Post?
”

“No, I saw no reason to send a betrothal announcement this week and a wedding announcement next week.”

“I agree, my love.” Grace took his hand. “Everyone who is in Town already knows and the rest will learn of our marriage later.”

He glanced at their sisters. Louisa and Charlotte were trying their best not to yawn. Both girls needed to retire. “Patience, why don't you take Louisa home, she's not yet used to Town hours.”

Charlotte stood, kissed her aunt and uncle, then embraced Patience and Louisa. “I think I'll go to bed as well. Aunt Almeria and Uncle Bertrand, thank you. I had a wonderful time.”

Patience held her hand out to the Herndons. “Good night, my lord, my lady. Grace, do you mind if I take Charlotte with us shopping to-morrow?”

“Of course not.” Grace bussed Patience's cheek. “Shall I see you at breakfast?”

Patience grinned wryly. “If we are not too much trouble?”

“None at all. Good night.”

“We shall go as well, my dear.” Aunt Almeria rose. “It has been a very entertaining evening. I hope one day to come to one of your breakfasts.”