“Ian.” Gordon leaned on the desk, his hands steepled in front of him. “I think Claire wanted me to invite you because she has feelings for you.”
Unable to help himself, Ian laughed. “I don’t think you could be any farther from the truth.”
“Don’t dismiss her so easily. Just think—”
“Dismiss her? Why would I have reason to dismiss her?”
Gordon took in a deep breath. “As I’ve watched the two of you interact through the years, I always thought something would grow between you. Honestly, I expected it long before now. Regardless, she’s my sister and I will take care of this, but just tell me. Do you truly have no feelings for her, whatsoever?”
Staring at his friend, Ian felt as though he’d missed something. Gordon seemed to be encouraging him to pursue Claire. All this time Ian had hidden his feelings from his best friend for fear of his response. It was hard to believe he could have had his friend’s blessing all along. Had everything not been such a mess, Ian would find humor in the situation.
“Are you suggesting I marry Claire?”
“Well, you don’t have to jump into it right away, but yes. That was my idea.”
“All these years I thought you’d be against it,” Ian confirmed. “I have never admitted this to anyone, but I’ve held Claire in my regard for a very long time now.”
“Great.” Gordon clapped his hands as he stood. “That’s settled. You have my blessings. If you’d like to speak with her, I’ll call her down.”
“Just wait a moment. I think you are mistaken about her affection for me.”
Gordon shook his head. “No. She’ll be thrilled.”
“No, she won’t. I’ve already asked her twice to marry me and have been rejected both times.” The room fell eerily silent. “I need you to help me find out why.”
His friend fell back into his seat and rubbed his temples. “So much for one burden being handled. If she won’t have you then—”
“This isn’t the end of it. I will not give up so easily.”
“What good will come of this? Maybe you’re too loud. Or moody. Hell, she might not like the color of your hair.”
“Then I’ll change, damn it.” Ian slammed his hands on the top of his desk. “I won’t accept no for an answer.”
Gordon watched him with shocked, wide eyes, but a slow smile transformed his face. “If that’s how you feel about her, I’ll do whatever I can to help.”
Chapter 9
“Tell me what it’s like,” Carolyn begged as they lounged around Claire’s bedchamber.
“What you talking about?” Claire turned her attention from looking out the window to face her sister.
“The season. I have one year left before mine. I’ve never danced with anyone other than the instructor, and certainly, have never been adored. Honestly, I wish I didn’t have to go through it.”
“It can be so much fun. You’ll see. You have always enjoyed the activity and when you find a skilled partner . . .” A blush spread over Claire’s cheeks as she thought about dancing with Ian in the cabin. “It’s like you’re gliding into Heaven.”
“With everyone watching,” Carolyn added. “Then if you trip, or miss a step, the whole room would be laughing at you.”
Claire shrugged. “I haven’t done so yet, nor have I seen anyone sprawled out on the ballroom floor.”
Her sister shrugged a delicate shoulder. “I’ll be eighteen in a few months. Do you suppose I could find a husband before having to endure the season?”
“I honestly don’t know. I can’t even tell you where our lives will be at that time.”
“Or, if Father will be here.”
The thought of their father’s passing brought a melancholy atmosphere to the room. Needing to change the subject, Claire studied her sister. “If you wish to marry quickly, do you not have a care to wed someone you love?”
“That’s not what marriage is about. Women need to make arrangements for themselves in order to avoid becoming a burden to their family. Then, you can produce heirs and see about taking care of your children.”
“Maybe love isn’t a requirement, but having some kind of feelings for your husband would be nice.”
Carolyn traced shapes on the coverlet with one finger. “I’ll admit it would make the union much easier. But, look what happened to father. He is still mourning our mother and it’s been almost two decades.”
With a nod, Claire turned her gaze out the window again. “I suppose it would be the same if you marry someone you love who didn’t return your affection.”
“Of course. Your entire marriage would be like a mourning period. Trying to live up to expectations you can never hope to achieve.”
Thoughts of Ian proposing to her in the portrait gallery made her vision fog. He wanted her physically, but if his past was any indication, he’d never been too picky in that regard.
If she hadn’t been his friend’s sister, would he have done it without requiring marriage? It didn’t matter. In the end, she didn’t want to lose her innocence, and therefore, her chances of making a good match. She also didn’t want to force Ian into marriage simply because she had pushed him into doing something he didn’t want to do.
She imagined becoming his wife. It would be glorious until his wandering eyes fell on another woman. Sitting at home waiting for him while he took pleasure in a mistress wasn’t for her. At one point she thought she could make him love her. Then she found him with his lips sealed on yet another girl.
“You’re right. But, would marriage be any easier if you didn’t love your husband and you knew he didn’t love you? That seems like it would be equally difficult.”
Her sister smiled as if Claire were the child here. “How so? If you produce an heir and keep the house, the rest can fall into an amicable relationship. I’ve never heard that there were any requirements for the husband and wife to share the same residence.”
“That seems so sad.”
The cool outlook on marriage made Claire feel sorry for Carolyn. Besides, Claire couldn’t imagine enjoying an experience like she had with Ian in the cabin if she didn’t care for the man. The sad part was, she couldn’t imagine herself doing it with anyone except Ian.
“Claire, do you love Lord Higgins?”
Unable to lie, Claire shook her head.
“What about him? Does he love you?” Carolyn pressed.
“He’s never indicated so to me, and I don’t see how he could. We’ve never talked about anything of substance. Just polite topics.”
“But, you do like him?”
Claire shrugged. “Well enough.”
“Then he seems perfect to me. I know you want to travel and the earl is wealthy. Surely he could set up a place for you in Bath after securing the earldom.”
“I suppose as compromises go, it could work.”
“Of course, it will work.”
As her sister went on to describe the perfect plan for her, a stone settled in Claire’s stomach. She wanted so much more out of life. At present, she saw three possibilities. None of them ideal.
A knock at the door stopped her sister’s depressing monologue.
“Claire?” Gordon called as he poked his head in. “Oh, hello, Carolyn.”
“I’m here.” Claire stood up from her window seat.
“I’d like to speak to you. Would you join me for a walk?”
"Of course.” She grabbed her pelisse then took Gordon’s arm as he donned his hat. Once outside, they walked along the sidewalk. The damp air and cool breeze threatened rain, but Claire didn’t care. London offered too many rainy days for her to allow them to upset her.
“So, to what do I owe the pleasure this outing?” She spared a glance at him once they had traveled a block from the house.
> “A number of things. First, I’d like to say I’m pleased you will be chaperoned by Lady Knightly. She is a respectable woman and will help you find the best prospects.”
Swallowing, Claire decided to hold her tongue. “I’m sure she will.”
“I’ve arrange for you to dine with her this evening at Caldwell house.”
“To what purpose?” Concern ran along her spine.
“The season will be over in a matter of weeks. A number of eligible men have already made their choices. Considering you have already achieved your nineteenth year, you—”
She stopped walking. “What are you saying? I know I should have come out last season, but Father had worsened and we couldn’t leave the estate. I don’t think anyone holds that against me.”
“Of course not,” he rushed to assure her. “I spoke with Father earlier and he worries over you. I promised him I would take care of you, regardless, but I can’t assuage his concern.”
“I know.” She began walking again. “He told me to bring my future husband to him. I wish I could. Then he would stop concerning himself.”
“Although you already told me you wouldn’t have Marcus, can you tell me why? It would be nice to see you married to one of my friends.”
“Why?” Suspicion laced her tone.
“Because I know them, and you would be treated well by either Marcus or Ian.”
Claire laughed. Her brother always enjoyed the easy way out. However, this time she happened to agree with him. Although, she wished she didn’t. Lying had never been something she enjoyed.
“Well, I’m sorry to disappoint you, but Lord Starsen is not for me. He leads a very bland life. I need more adventure.”
“What about Ian, then? At one point, you liked him.”
Focusing her gaze on the road ahead, Claire kept her expression neutral. “Not anymore.”
“Why not? He’s the same man he’s always been, merely older. Is that the issue? If you long for someone less advanced in years, you’ll not find a willing applicant. As it is, I think he’s mad to consider marriage at twenty-three years of age.”
“It’s not his age.” Claire rolled her eyes. Men could be so dense sometimes. “We simply don’t suit.”
“But, what if you got to know him better? I could—”
Claire froze. “Why are you pushing this?”
Surely, Ian couldn’t have said anything to Gordon. His desire to marry her stemmed from his desire to bed her. Or perhaps he wanted to do as she was currently contemplating, and have the dreaded thing over with.
She mentally shook her head. No. She distinctively recalled him saying he wanted a wife for whom he longed to share both days and nights. At present, he only wanted Claire for the nights.
“I just want you to have that person who you can bring to Father as your betrothed. Then he can stop worrying. And so can I.”
As they moved along the road in silence, Claire let his words seep in. Perhaps she was thinking too much on this. Carolyn could be right. All she needed to do was marry Lord Higgins and have him set her up in Bath, or Paris, or anywhere.
For the majority of the season, she’d been considering marriage to him, so it couldn’t be such a bad thing. Now she would have to focus on making his semi-proposal from months ago turn into a real one.
“Now, Ian,” his mother said in her most regal tone. “I expect you to be both kind and attentive to our guest.”
“Yes, my lady.” Ian gave a mock bow, then winked at his mother.
Ever since he told her about how he had arranged this evening for her and Claire to move into a more companionable relationship, she’d been beside herself with joy. Either it had been much too long since she had entertained a houseguest, or she was trying to impress Claire. He hoped it was the latter.
“I’ve instructed Cook to spare no expense in selecting tonight’s menu. Over dinner I expect you to be charming and witty, but not too much.”
“Mother, I know how to present myself in polite company.”
“Of course you do.” She patted his cheek as if he were a child. “Now, don’t interrupt. After dinner when Miss Ashford and I adjourn to the drawing room, I expect you to give us some time to speak with one another.”
Ian sighed. “I’ll do what I can. After all, I’m not good company for myself.”
“I’m sure you will manage.”
Before he could comment further, the butler arrived and announced the arrival of Miss Ashford. She was a vision in blue and his heart sped at the dip in the neckline of her gown. Just a hint. Just enough to get his body raging. Although she appeared confused, she had dressed for the occasion.
“Miss Ashford,” his mother greeted. “You look lovely.”
“Thank you, my lady.” A becoming blush touched Claire’s cheeks as her eyes traveled from his mother to him. “I was unaware this was to be a formal affair.”
“Miss Ashford.” Ian inclined his head. “The three of us are simply going to enjoy a companionable dinner.”
At that moment, the butler announced dinner. Ian inwardly groaned. His mother had overdone herself. Over the progress of the meal, he amended his statement. Overdone was not a strong enough word to describe the extravagance of course after course being served. If he hadn’t known better, he would think Claire to be royalty.
The opulent menu wasn’t the only distraction of the evening. Due to the few people at the large table, his mother sat to his right and Claire to his left. Each time Claire reached for her glass, he had to restrain himself from placing his hand on the table to accidentally touch her. And when she leaned forward . . . he shivered. The neckline of her gown should be outlawed. Concentrating on the flavors on his tongue proved to be a difficult feat.
When the women finally departed for the drawing room, he gratefully leaned back in his chair with his port. Playing the part of relaxed lord as his mother had wanted was exhausting. The entire time he had wanted to drink in the sight of Claire participating in a family dinner at his home. He hoped this would be a nightly occurrence, one day soon.
Taking another sip of his port, he wondered what his mother had planned for the remainder of the evening. She was obviously trying to display the Knightly wealth. He had also noticed the viscountess’ jewels adorning her neck. What was next, would she have Claire check his legs and teeth? The whole night didn’t sit well with him. He wanted Claire to want him for himself, not his wealth.
By the time he made it to the drawing room, the two women were conversing quietly, and he felt like an intruder. His mother turned her eyes on him when he approached. He didn’t like the sad look he found in her eyes. What had happened?
“Well.” His mother stood. “I will let you two young people talk now.”
Claire stood as well. “Lady Knightly, we have no wish to exclude you. Please remain with us.”
“I’m not abandoning you, my dear. I intend to work on my needlework by the door.” With an encouraging smile, she moved to the other side of the room.
Once Claire reclaimed her seat, Ian sat beside her. “Is everything all right?”
She nodded. “I’m sure Gordon told you the point of this evening.”
“To get you and my mother better acquainted? Has that gone well?”
“I have decided her help will be invaluable, as I wish to marry quickly.”
His body stiffened as he studied her face. The only reason he could think of for a woman to quickly marry couldn’t be the case for her. Claire was still an innocent. If she wasn’t . . . Well then, there would be one less man in the world when Ian was done with him.
“Why is that?” His voice emerged more forceful than he intended.
“Gordon informed me earlier today that I’m too old to make it through another season. In that respect, it’s now or never. But mo
re importantly, my father isn’t well. He wants to learn of my betrothal in order to ease his mind. If that is the only comfort I can give him, I’ll have it done.”
“That’s very noble of you, but you can’t make such a decision in a rush. You need time to make sure the man you are choosing is the right one for you.”
Tears filled her eyes but did not spill. “Then what should I do?”
It was on the tip of his tongue to propose again, but he couldn’t. Until he was certain of her answer, he wouldn’t utter those words again.
“Maybe you need a pretend betrothal.”
“What?” Her tears dried as her eyes grew round.
The more he thought about it, the more he liked the idea. “Yes. Only one that’s between you, your father, and the man you choose to play the part.”
She bit her lip as she thought over his idea. “I suppose that would ease his worries now, but what happens when he gets better? The wedding will not take place. Or worse, that I enter in a real engagement shortly after telling him of the pretend one.”
“Well, first of all, if you choose the right man, the fake relationship might become real. And if you find another man during that time,” he clenched his fists at the thought. “You can tell your father it was an amicable break of an unofficial betrothal.”
Her brows knitted in concern and it took every ounce of his willpower not to take her in his arms and promise everything would be all right. From what Gordon had said, the baron wouldn’t live long enough to discover his daughter’s deceit.
“How would I go about asking a gentleman to pretend to be my betrothed? He’ll think I’ve gone mad.”
An unbidden smile spread across his face. “That’s the simple part. You don’t even have to ask. I’ll do it.”
She snorted. “Be reasonable. I need someone who would be more believable. With you, he will see right through the lie.”
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