The Marriage Market Read Online Free Page A

from being overturned.  You acted as guardian to my family in my absence, and I am greatly indebted to you.  So, do us another kindness and stay for a few days until your foot begins to heal and your face is recovered enough from its bruising to risk being seen in the streets.  Victoria’s skull must be as tough as a coconut – your face looks quite battered, sir.”
    Touched, Ladbrook inclined his head and said, “Thank you, Admiral.  I would not wish to frighten women and children in the streets.  I am happy to accept your hospitality.  To the health of your fine lady, and to your daughters.”
    The next day, Victoria did not leave her room, but Ladbrook joined the family downstairs for breakfast.  Afterward, he settled with the newspaper on a couch in the morning room.  As he turned the pages, Mrs. Larke and Patricia burst into the room, the mother saying, “It’s your decision, child, if you really think it’s necessary.  If you must do it, better to get it over with now.”  The two ladies stopped in front of Ladbrook, Patricia looking particularly distressed. 
    “My word, what is all this?” he inquired, dropping the newspaper and struggling to stand.
    Patricia said, “Pray, do not rise, sir.  You must rest your broken foot.  Mr. Ladbrook, I wish to make my apologies to you, and if you will accept them, I hope that you will shake hands with me.”  The girl’s eyes were downcast and her cheeks were flushed.
    “Miss Patricia, you have done nothing that requires an apology,” Ladbrook protested, taking her proffered hand.  “Whatever is the matter?  I wondered when you would not look at me at breakfast this morning, but I thought that my face was putting you off your meal.”  He smiled at her.
    “No indeed, Mr. Ladbrook, far from it.  But I am responsible for your injury and I want to apologize.  If I had not called out exactly when I did and distracted you, you would not have been hurt.  I am very sorry for my thoughtlessness and pray that you will forgive me.”
    Understanding flooded his face.  “Please, do not be troubled any longer.  You were alarmed when you saw blood on my face.  I have lived around horses all my life, and they have kicked me, stepped upon me, and knocked me down.  Animals are unpredictable and accidents happen.  It was not your fault, so please do not think that it was.”  The gentleman gave her hand a small shake to emphasize his words.
    Mrs. Larke grinned and said, “See, Tricia, Mr. Ladbrook does not blame you, and you must not blame yourself any longer.  Everyone knows that you would never intentionally harm a fly.” 
    Patricia gazed solemnly at Mr. Ladbrook for a moment before bending to kiss his cheek.  “Thank you, sir,” she murmured. 
    Mrs. Larke said, “Well done, my dear, and if our rescuer does not mind, I will salute him as well.” She bent and gave his other cheek a resounding kiss.  “And when Victoria is feeling better, I will tell her that she owes Mr. Ladbrook a kiss, too.”
    From behind her, Admiral Larke said, “Well, I’m not going to kiss Ladbrook, although it seems a popular occupation this morning.  Can I offer you a cigar instead, sir?”
    Looking dazed but pleased, Mr. Ladbrook replied that he would gladly smoke a cigar with the admiral, and the ladies left the gentlemen in possession of the room.
    The next morning, Ladbrook was seated at a small table strewn with drawing materials when Victoria walked in slowly on her father’s arm.  Ladbrook limped to his feet, but the admiral waved him back down.  Father and daughter approached the table, and the admiral lowered her carefully into a high-backed chair beside the young gentleman.  Victoria let out a withheld breath and smiled at Ladbrook, looking pleased with herself. 
    “How are you, Miss Larke?  Did you sleep well? Have your breakfasted?” Ladbrook asked.
    “I passed a reasonable night and had a tray in bed this morning.  Dr. Barr said that I could try