The Reluctant Marquess Read Online Free

sipped it while the maid pulled the draperies, then threw open the window. The sun streamed into the room, carrying with it a strong briny smell of the sea. From her bed, Charity saw a wide blue sky and heard the cries of the sea birds. She stretched, feeling invigorated and ready to tackle whatever the day had in store. Perhaps it was best not to examine too closely what that might be.
    “I’ll wear the blue damask, Rebecca.”
    Throwing back the covers, Charity went to the window and perched on the window seat, gazing out. Below, a smooth green lawn ran down to the rocky foreshore. The deep violet-blue sea sparkled in the sunlight, so different to yesterday. About to turn away, she paused when she saw a horse and rider cross the grass, followed by Felix with his tongue lolling. Robert, astride a black stallion. A strange nervous tension settled low in her stomach. Perhaps she needed breakfast.
    Flicking her long plait over her shoulder, Charity began to undo it. Her hair was too long to be stylish, she knew.
    “Can you do something about my hair, Rebecca?”
    “Why yes, miss. I’ve quite a way with hair, I’m told.”
    Charity settled in front of the mirror, and the maid began to brush her hair. Fashion had not concerned her much before. Tucked away in their small community, she’d felt little pressure to follow fashion trends. Now it became a source of anxiety. She wasn’t at all sure what a lady should wear on any given occasion. She sucked in her breath. She was certain to make a mistake and embarrass herself and her new husband.
    If he became her husband, that is.
    An hour later, Charity entered the breakfast room, patting her hair and feeling a little more confident. Robert sat at the table reading The Gentleman’s Magazine and eating ham and eggs, a mug of ale by his side.
    He rose and bowed. “Good morning, Charity.”
    “Good morning, my lord.” She sat down in a chair opposite him as the servant stepped forward to pour her coffee. “After breakfast, I’d like to see my godfather’s will if I may.”
    He nearly choked on his food. His dark brows rose, and his eyes widened. “You don’t believe what I told you?”
    “I’d like to, but it would be foolish of me, don’t you think? I’ve only just met you.”
    He kept his gaze on her, clearly perplexed. Yes, she had been right, his eyes were more blue than green. It pleased her that she’d surprised him. Perhaps he would not be so quick to take her for granted. She wiggled slightly in her chair, very happy with herself.
    A servant carried in a tray loaded with warm rolls, scrambled eggs and ham, a pot of strawberry jam, and small jug of cream.
    Charity loaded her plate with eggs and ham, and ate quickly while Robert talked of how they might spend the day.
    She reached for a roll. “Mm. What lovely thick cream,” she said, spreading it liberally onto a roll with jam.
    Robert watched her with a faint smile. “You have a hearty appetite.”
    “It’s nice to discover different foods than those one is used to.” She took a bite of the roll, savoring it. She glanced at the window. “I would like to go out; it’s a much nicer day than yesterday.”
    “The weather changes swiftly here.”
    “Did you enjoy your ride?”
    “You saw me then?”
    “From my window. I was admiring the view.” She added the last, not wishing him to think she’d spied on him. It occurred to her that he was part of that view, and she had been admiring him also. Her cheeks grew warm.
    A spark of interest brightened his blue eyes. “Do you ride?”
    “Oh, yes, at every opportunity.”
    “Then I’ll show you over the St Malin lands after you’ve read the will.” He dropped his gaze to her gown. “Do you have a riding habit?”
    “Yes.” She doubted he would approve of it though, as it was a style from several seasons ago. She glanced at his immaculate blue coat. He was even more unnerving this morning in riding clothes. Last night the marquess had seemed like a