She searched his face, but could see little in the dark. Her heart beat so fast, her voice was breathless. “I don't know.”
He looked at her as if he hadn't expected her answer. “We can become betrothed, and if you find you cannot stand to be my wife, you may cry off. At least we will have avoided a scandal.”
Avoiding a scandal was imperative. It sounded like a good plan. Perhaps it could work. “Very well, I will become betrothed.”
He was about to step back, when Matt pushed his way through the crowd, pulled Dotty away, and swung at Merton.
He ducked. “Worthington, it is not what you think.”
Lord Rutherford seized Matt's arm and in a firm, low voice said, “Not here.”
Matt shook off the other man, straightened his coat, and glared at Merton. “I shall see you at Stanwood House immediately.”
“You will indeed.” Merton took Dotty's hand, placing it on his arm. “Miss Stern has just agreed to be my wife.”
What in God's name was wrong with him? Why goad Matt now? She wanted to stamp her foot on Merton's. Never would she understand why men felt it necessary to behave like children at times. “Enough. We shall discuss this when we get home. Merton, you may escort me to the hall.” Lowering her voice, she added, “Remember to smile. We've just become engaged. We need to look the part.”
He gave her a queer little grin, but did as he was told. Remembering her grandmother's advice, Dotty held her head high as they made their way slowly through the onlookers. She smiled at her friends, confusion and curiosity writ on their faces.
Time enough when they got to Stanwood House to tell Louisa and Charlotte it was a sham betrothal. The sad thing was that when she jilted Merton, for they would never see eye-to-eye, the blame would attach to him, not her. Everyone had already decided he was unlovable, but was he truly?
* * *
Elizabeth had almost made it to the ballroom door when a large hand grabbed her arm, She snapped her head around to see her brother, Gavin's stern face, then tried to break his hold, hissing, “Let go of me.”
“Why?” He scowled. “So you can make a fool of yourself?”
“Who told you?”
Though his fingers relaxed, he didn't let go. “Our darling cousin, Lavinia.” He sneered. “This was her idea, wasn't it?”
When Elizabeth refused to answer, he went on. “Of course it was. You'd never think of anything so devious, or put your reputation at risk without her urging.”
Drat, Lavvie. Why couldn't she have kept her mouth shut? “I'm doing this for you as well.”
“No, you are doing it because Papa convinced you we are rolled up.”
Elizabeth's eyes widened as the implication of what her brother said sank in. “You mean we're not?”
“No. It was Papa's way of ensuring you would accept Merton if he made an offer.”
She stopped struggling, and her brother released her. Anger and hurt rose, threatening to choke her. She had always trusted her father. A sob broke loose. “How could he do this? I thought he cared about me.”
“In his way he does.” Her brother's tone softened. “He wanted to see you well settled. Merton's rich as Golden Ball, and he'd be kind to you. Unlike that rascal Lavinia married.”
Elizabeth's throat tightened. She blinked to keep tears from falling. “But what if I had loved another?”
Gavin's gaze sharpened as he searched her face. “Do you? Do you love Merton?”
She shook her head slowly. “No. There is no one. Although I've always thought I would like to marry for love.”
He seemed to relax. “Then it's a good thing you didn't go out there. Who could ever love a cold fish like Merton?”
She thought Miss Stern might, but held her tongue. A disturbance near the door caused her to glance over. Miss Stern, Merton, Lord and Lady Worthington, and Lord Rutherford entered the room from the garden. Merton and Miss Stern were smiling, nodding, and greeting the other guests. Lavvie, her lips forming a thin line, and three other ladies scurried behind them.
“What the devil?” her brother said.
“Do not use that language in front of me.” Elizabeth frowned at him. “I suppose it is a good thing you stopped me. Imagine how awkward it would have been if both Miss Stern and I had arrived.”
“Looks like Merton's going to get leg shackled without your help.” Gavin grinned but almost immediately sobered. Listen here, Aunt Agatha is in Town, and I have arranged for her to sponsor you.”
Their aunt, the Countess of Shirring, had married off all four of her daughters with good matches. Still, despite knowing that Elizabeth had no one, Aunt Agatha had not offered. “How did you talk her into it?”
He gave her a smug smile. “When I told her Lavvie had you in hand, she ordered her trunks packed and the town house opened. She doesn't have any better opinion of our cousin than I do. If you ask me, she was waiting for Papa to ask her to take you on.”
Lavvie must have seen Elizabeth and her brother because her cousin had her polite smile on her face as she walked purposefully in their direction.
“Where were you?” Lavvie hissed.
“I stopped her.” Gavin's voice was cold and scathing. “Have you lost what little brains you have?”
Almost breathing fire, Lavvie stood toe-to-toe with Elizabeth's much larger brother and whispered fiercely, “No, Gavin. I am trying to help save my family from certain ruin.”
The two of them had always been at odds, and Elizabeth prayed they wouldn't start a row in public.
He raised a brow. “I shall take care of that and my sister.” Piercing Elizabeth with a stern look, he said, “I'll call for the coach now. Try to stay out of trouble until I get back.”
After he'd gone, Elizabeth breathed a sigh of relief. “What happened?”
“When we got there, he was proposing to Miss Stern, but he'll not want her for long.”
Elizabeth closed her eyes for a moment. She wasn't sure she even wanted to know what her cousin had done. “What do you mean?”
Lavvie shrugged one shoulder. “I merely told Lady Brownfield they looked as if they were about to anticipate their vows on the spot.”
Glancing around to make sure no one was near, Elizabeth pulled her cousin farther behind the palm. “How could you do such a mean, spiteful thing?”
Unabashed, Lavvie responded, “She hurt you, my dear.”
“You should not haveâ”
Suddenly a peevish male voice intruded. “What are you doing behind this”âViscount Manners took out his quizzing glass and studied the plantâ“bush? My wife ought to know better. Have you no care at all for what people think?”
The corners of Lavvie's lips trembled as she attempted a smile. “I was just getting a bit of air. The room seemed terribly close for a moment. I did not think to see you again this evening.”
“You wouldn't have if Merton hadn't caused such an uproar. The ball is ending. No one can bear to be the last to relay the happy tidings to anyone not present. I am off to my club.”
After Lord Manners left, her cousin gave Elizabeth a slow, wicked smile. Dear heavens. That was the same expression Lavvie had when coming up with the plan to trap Merton. What was she thinking of now, and how was Elizabeth to talk her out of it? Even if she told Lavvie the truth, she would be hard to stop.
Chapter Ten
By the time Dom reached the hall with Thea and his mother, the town coaches were waiting. He had been shocked then pleased when she'd taken control of the situation by ordering both him and his cousin to cease. She had determination and command that was rare in a woman her age and station.
He and Thea rode with his mother, telling her what had happened as they traveled the short distance to Berkeley Square.
“That was very brave of you, my dear.” His mother nodded approvingly. “Not many ladies would follow their conscience as you did.”
In a very few minutes they were all gathered in the Stanwood House drawing room where wine and brandy were served. No champagne, he noted. In fact, the only person who seemed willing to accept the possible marriage, other than Thea, was his mother. She'd had a wistful look on her face since she learned of the betrothal.
Once again, Thea had to explain what had occurred. Even after hearing her explanation Worthington still scowled. “I'll kill him.”
“No. You. Will. Not.” Grace frowned heavily at him. “Merton must be betrothed to Dotty. It was not his fault, or hers.”
“If anyone is to blame,” Thea said, “it is the ladies who planned to trap him. Maybe I should not have tried to warn him, but what they wanted to do was wicked.”
A low growling sound emanated from Worthington but other than that, he remained silent.
Grace glanced at Dom. “Do you have any idea who it could have been?”
“Possibly Miss Turley.” He had known she wanted to marry him. Obviously, he had underestimated her determination. “Her cousin, Lady Manners, was with the group that came upon us. She was clearly surprised when she saw Miss Stern with me.”
“Then what happened to Miss Turley?” Thea asked.
“I saw her arguing with her brother,” Charlotte replied.
Dom's mother leaned over and patted Thea's hand. “It is a good thing Miss Stern intervened. I do not want Miss Turley for a daughter-in-law.”
He'd never in his life heard his mother say anything like that before. “Mama!”
“It is the truth.” She gave him an unrepentant look. “If the young lady is this deceitful now, what would she be like as a wife?”
“I do not want to believe Miss Turley could behave so badly.” Charlotte took a sip of wine. “Unless she was forced into it. She
is
very biddable.”
“I do not think we have anything to worry about.” Louisa set her glass down. “After the Season is over, Dotty may call it off. By the time the Little Season comes around, the incident will be forgotten.”
Worthington rose and poured another brandy. “And that is exactly what will happen.”
Holding himself on a tight rein, Dom clenched his hands.
Not if I have anything to say about it
.
His betrothal to Thea might not have been planned. He had been so conflicted over her, he did not even know if he would have asked her to marry him. Yet now that it was done, he knew to his bones she was exactly the woman he wanted to take as his wife.
To hell with his cousins and his uncle. All Dom had to do was convince Thea that he was the husband she wanted.
“I am afraid jilting Lord Merton will not be a possibility.”
They turned to the door where the Dowager Lady Worthington stood with Lady Bellamny. Age had clearly not lessened the older woman's power in the
ton
.
Lady Worthington focused on him and Thea before continuing. “I did not see what occurred between the two of you, and I doubt the story circling is true; nevertheless, there must be a wedding. We must avoid a scandal at all costs.”
“A month should do it.” Lady Bellamny nodded, her chins jiggling. “Don't want it to appear rushed. Good thing you kept your wits about you, Merton. And you too, Miss Stern.”
If Worthington hadn't been glaring at Dom, he would have sighed with relief. This was a much better result. Dom would have his marriage with the woman he wanted and without all the dangerous emotions that would have attended a real courtship.
Unfortunately, the next thing he knew, Thea erupted. “I don't understand. We did not
do
anything. Our hands were clasped because I was trying to pull him back inside, but that was all.” She glanced at him. “Tell them.”
He did his best to give her a comforting look, but thankfully, Lady Bellamny spoke again.
“It doesn't matter what
actually
occurred. We must deal with the perception.” Her countenance took on a stern demeanor. “I shall tell you, young lady. If Merton had not kept his head when those gossips came upon you, you would be facing ruin.”
Thea pulled part of her lower lip between her teeth, making him want to kiss her. “Whatâwhat are people saying?”
Lady Worthington came to Thea, taking her hands. “My dear, suffice it to say, it was more than what actually happened. We will make it right. Merton's statement that he was proposing is also circling. Still, the betrothal must be announced, a ball planned, and a wedding date set.”
More reluctantly than Dom liked, Thea nodded. “I understand.”
Lady Bellamny lowered her bulk onto the chair next to his betrothed. “Notice has been taken of Merton's interest in you and yours in return. Many a successful marriage has begun with less.”
Thea glanced at him, uncertainly, but resolved. “Very well. I agree we shall marry in one month's time.”
He sucked in a slow breath and realized how frightened he had been she would refuse. “I shall make immediate plans to visit your father.”
Matt lounged back on the sofa next to Grace, a slow smile forming on his lips. “No need for that, Merton,” he drawled. “Sir Henry has given me his power of attorney to negotiate the settlement agreements.”
By Jove's beard!
Worthington would put Dom through hell just for the fun of it. He could have easily taken a swing at his cousin, but this was no time to lose his temper. After all, he was getting Thea, and there wasn't anything his cousin could do about it. He inclined his head. “Very well. Send me a draft when you have it ready.”
“You'll have it in a day or two. I will notify you when we have been told where Sir Henry wants the ceremony held.”
It seemed Worthington was going to make everything as difficult as possible. Dom's jaw clenched. “I would prefer it to be either St. George's or the chapel at Merton.”
Thea rose, placing her fingers on Dom's arm. “I don't know if my mother will be ready to travel. You do remember she has a broken leg.”
It wasn't what he wanted, but he covered her hand with his. “I'm sorry, my dear, I'd forgotten. We shall marry wherever your father wishes.”
Lady Bellamny frowned. “If your mother can make the trip to Town, St. George's would be the best site.”
“I shall write Lady Stern.” Grace's lips pursed in thought. “We shall send one of our traveling coaches. The seats make into beds and it is well sprung. She'll have a comfortable ride.”
Dom gave a slight bow. “I shall leave the arrangements to you ladies. At the moment, I would like to speak with Miss Stern alone.”
He almost grinned when Worthington scowled again.
Despite everything, her lips curved in a tentative smile, and his heart seemed to stop.
He closed his fingers possessively around hers. “We shall be back in a few minutes.”
Relative silence greeted Merton's words. Matt, Charlotte, and Louisa frowned. Lady Merton, who had been very quiet, nodded encouragingly. The Dowager Lady Worthington and Lady Bellamny, who were speaking quietly with Grace, didn't even glance up.
Dotty led Merton to a front parlor, and a footman hurried in to light the candles.
Once she and Merton were alone and the door had been closed, she turned to face her betrothed. His arms went around her and his throat worked as if he was having trouble swallowing. Finally, he said, “I shall do my best to make you a good husband.”
“I'm so sorry.” Tears pricked Dotty's eyes, and she blinked them back. “If only I had let well enough alone you would not be in this mess.”
He stroked her cheek with the pad of his thumb. She was surprised to find it slightly calloused.
“And I would be marrying Miss Turley instead of you.”
Which is what he probably wanted. He had already been considering Miss Turley. Why had she involved herself? “Butâ”
“No.” He stopped her before she could continue. “I am glad it is you, Thea.”
“What did you call me?” The heat of his body warmed her, and his lips touched the corner of her mouth.
“Thea. Everyone calls you Dotty, but I wanted my own special name for you. Do you mind?”
A blush rose in her cheeks. It seemed as if she was always blushing around him. Her grandmother called her Thea as well. And as uncertain as she was over their betrothal, she was inordinately pleased at his request. “No, I like it. What shall I call you?”
“Dom. Only one other person called me that”âthe muscles in his throat worked as he swallowedâ“and he is dead. May I kiss you?”
Myriad thoughts and feelings had been rushing around in her head, but his question brought her up short. Goodness, wasn't he already kissing her? Apparently, she had a lot to learn. “Yes.”
He feathered his lips lightly over hers. When she puckered her lips to kiss him back, he grinned and touched his mouth to hers. His tongue ran along the seam.
“Open for me.”
Dotty didn't understand what he planned to do, but did as he asked, surprised at the feel of his tongue against hers. She copied his movement, returning his strokes.
When he groaned, she jerked back. “Did I hurt you?”
“Never. You feel so good.” He held her tighter.
Sliding her hands from his chest to circle his neck, she pulled herself flush against his body. For some reason, until this evening, she had not realized he was so tall. He tilted his head and there was no more thinking. Only him, his taste of brandy and musk. A deep thrumming started inside her. No wonder ladies were not supposed to kiss gentlemen unless they were betrothed. She didn't even know how she felt about Merton, Dom, but what he was doing to her felt wonderful.
His hands seemed to touch everywhere as if he couldn't stop. Her breasts ached, and when he ran his fingers over them sparks flew through her. She gasped, surprised at what she was feeling.
Suddenly he stopped. His palms moved to her waist, and his lips left hers. His tone was stiff. “I'm sorry. I should not have touched you so intimately.”
Did he think she had not liked it? She placed two fingers over his lips to stop him from speaking again. “Please don't apologize. I enjoyed it.”
Dom stared at her for several moments before smiling and placing a kiss on her palm. “I am exceedingly happy we are marrying.”
“Yes, I think I am, too.” Especially when he lost his formal manners.
Even though she had no experience with men, the way he'd touched her felt right. After those kisses, Dotty didn't know how anyone could think Dom was emotionless.
Reserved
was a better description.
He did have good points. He had saved her from ruin this evening, and he had helped her rescue the kittens and Tom. On the other hand, she would be miserable wedded to Dom if he did not change. Perhaps no one else had offered him the challenge of helping others, both personally and in the Lords. Could she be the right wife for him after all?
If only Charlotte and her family didn't dislike him so much. As soon as she could, Dotty would speak with Grace. Dotty didn't want to be estranged from her friends; as an only child, Dom would benefit from knowing his cousins better. There must be a way to bring about a reconciliation.
Dom gazed at her, his deep blue eyes warm, his face all hard, lean planes, reflecting his Norman ancestry. If they were not living in modern times, she could envision him throwing her up onto his horse and riding off. Suddenly, she knew she would love him and once he loved her, nothing would come between them.
She would have everything she had ever dreamed of.