Chapter Three

V iolet took extra time and care dressing and fashioning her hair for tonight's meeting. This might be the man who would eventually be her husband.

Her breath caught, and she said a silent prayer that he wouldn't be handsome. She only wanted a plain-looking man who didn't draw attention to her. An ordinary man who didn't make her appear uglier than she was, or make people wonder what he saw in her and know at a glance that he had married her for her money, because he surely didn't marry her for her looks.

When Violet was as ready as she would ever be, she seated her spectacles on her nose, then left her room and went down the stairs.

"You look very becoming, Lady Violet. You're sure to impress the gentleman Mrs. Dove-Lyon wishes for you to meet."

"Thank you, Wilbert. Is Milo out front?"

"Yes, my lady. He has the carriage ready and waiting."

"Thank you," Violet repeated, then donned a light shoulder cape and walked to the carriage. Milo had the step in place and helped her inside before taking his place on the high seat. He tapped the reins against the horses' flanks, and they began to move in the graceful way only a perfectly matched pair could.

Violet's sudden impulse was to stop the carriage and have Milo turn around and take her back. She wasn't brave enough to do this. She didn't have the courage she needed to meet a perfect stranger and implore him to marry her. This was the most humiliating thing she'd ever done in her life.

It was also the most important thing she'd ever have to do.

After driving several long, agonizing minutes, the carriage slowed, then turned down a narrow street. Somehow moonlight had managed to turn the garish blue of the Lyon's Den into a more welcoming shade. Still, Violet's heart raced in her breast. The moment her carriage stopped, Milo dismounted and opened the carriage door.

The burly man she'd seen the first time she was here stood outside her carriage and waited to escort her inside.

"Good evening, my lady," he greeted her.

"Good evening, sir," she said, following him through a side entrance into the establishment.

"Lady Violet." Mrs. Dove-Lyon greeted her warmly as she entered the room at the top of the stairs. "It's a pleasure to see you again."

"Thank you, Mrs. Dove-Lyon. Am I the first to arrive?"

"Yes," she answered. "Actually, your prospective candidate won't arrive for another half-hour or so. I asked you to come first so we could go over a few details."

"Oh? What details?"

"Not details, exactly. More accurately, the main point you want to get across to the man you will meet. From speaking with him, I think it is holding him back from accepting your help outright."

"And what would that be?" Violet asked after she'd taken a chair Mrs. Dove-Lyon offered.

"His reluctance to use your money to pay the debts his father and brother amassed because of their gambling."

"But he shouldn't," Violet argued. "I am getting as many benefits from our alliance."

"That is a point you must get across to him. Tell him the danger you will be in if you do not have his name to protect you."

Violet nodded. "Yes, of course. He must understand that it has only been three days since I was informed of the massive amount of my inheritance, and already several rooms in my house are filled with bouquets of flowers and gifts from men I don't remember ever having met. Where I have never had a serious suitor in my life, they are now crawling out of the woodwork. And none of them suitable, or reputable. It is only a matter of time until one of them forces me into a compromising situation and I will be forced to marry a man who does not care for me or the good that could be done with my inheritance."

"You are a wise woman, my lady. The gentleman I have chosen for you is equally as wise, I believe."

Just then a knock was heard and the giant of a man opened the door.

Violet turned and got her first look at the most handsome man she had ever seen. It was as if she was given her first glimpse of an Olympian statue come to life.

The man's broad shoulders and towering stature filled the doorframe. He stood stoically tall with his legs braced as if at attention in battle-ready posture, prepared to confront the enemy.

Violet prayed she would not see the disappointment on his face that she was so accustomed to seeing when first introduced to men, even men not as exceedingly good looking as this gentleman. But his disillusionment and disappointment were there, even though he struggled to hide his reaction.

"Phillip Eversley, Earl of Markham, allow me to introduce Lady Violet Slushman."

"Lady Slushman."

"Lord Markham," Violet said, lowering her head. "It is a pleasure to meet you."

"Likewise," he said, lowering his head to execute a perfect bow.

As they spoke, an elderly maid entered pushing a tea cart.

Mrs. Dove-Lyon turned to Violet. "Would you be so kind as to pour, Lady Violet?"

"Of course," she answered, and stood to pour tea as well as offer the wonderful array of pastries.

The three of them chatted about nothing in particular while they shared tea. Mrs. Dove-Lyon kept the conversation focused on innocent topics, such as the weather and the newest play at Covent Garden. Neither Lord Markham nor Violet had seen it, so that part of the conversation quickly died.

"Lady Violet," Mrs. Dove-Lyon said when they'd finished their tea. "Why don't you explain to Lord Markham your reason for wishing to marry?"

Violet set her cup and saucer down on the edge of a nearby table and looked at the stunning man seated opposite her. She clutched her hands in her lap and readied herself to convince the most attractive man she'd ever met that he would not die of embarrassment to be seen with her on his arm. Even though she knew that was unlikely, if not impossible.

"Lord Markham," she began, "I understand that you have very recently returned from fighting Napoleon's army, so I am unsure how much of my family's history you are familiar with. Let me assure you that it is not as pristine as I would like it to be. Though it is beyond unpleasant, we all work with what we are given."

Lord Markham's reaction was evident. His expression changed, and Violet couldn't help but comment on the look she saw on his face.

"You understand what I mean, I think."

"I do," he replied.

Violet smiled, something she rarely did. "I want to explain the reason it is important for me to marry a good steward to care for my fortune."

The beautiful man settled back in his chair. At least he appeared as though he intended to hear her out. She appreciated that much about him. She had been afraid he would cut her off without the courtesy of hearing what she had to say, but he at least let her continue.

"My brother, the late Viscount Slushman, was charged with some heinous crimes against the female workers in our household and thought he would get by with them because of his title and my father's influence. But he did not. He spent one month in a workhouse. Unfortunately, he did not learn anything from it. When he was released, he took revenge on the people he thought were responsible for his incarceration, and, in so doing, he was killed. His death left my father without an heir and our family ostracized from Society.

"My mother could not live with being cut off by Society and convinced Father to take them to America, where she thought she and my sister, who was a regal beauty, would flourish. Unfortunately, my mother, father, and sister perished on the voyage to America when their ship was lost at sea."

Violet was forced to swallow hard when speaking of their tragedy. For some reason, the reality of their having died affected her more each time she spoke of it.

"I'm sorry," Lord Markham said softly.

Mrs. Dove-Lyon handed her a small glass of wine, and Violet accepted it.

"Thankfully, before they set sail, Father sold all his unentailed properties, as well as his shipping and mining ventures, and put the money from the sale of everything into an account in my name, with instructions that it was to be saved until they returned, which he was sure they would in time. He knew Mother would not be satisfied living away from England for long. The money is still in that account for me to manage."

Violet reached into her reticule and took out the paper with the amount written on it. "As usual, it didn't take long for all of Society to hear the details of my inheritance, and it has been chaotic since word got out." She unfolded the paper and handed it to Lord Markham.

He looked at the total in what clearly was suppressed shock, then lifted his gaze and locked his surprised expression with hers.

"Yes, my lord. It is a massive amount. My father was a brilliant manager and investor."

"Clearly, he was," Markham admitted. "So, why do you want to give it away? Why don't you want to keep it and use it?"

"I want to use some of it, but only a small portion. The rest I need to give away."

"Why?"

Violet smiled. "If you would see my house, you would know why. I have more flowers than my staff can find places to put them. All from suitors who wish to marry me. Suitors I have never met in my life, but they all want to marry my money. Not me. Just my money."

"I see," he said.

"Yes. I think you do. Mrs. Dove-Lyon assured me that you are an honorable man and would use my father's wealth to save the estates your father and brother gambled away." She leaned toward him. "Don't you see? If my family's gain can restore your family's loss, then their deaths will not have been in vain."

"Surely a financier at the Bank of England could convene a consortium in whom you might have confidence, my lady. They could handle a massive estate such as yours admirably."

Violet nodded. "Yes, of course they could. And I'm sure they would do so with an eye toward the amount they might charge me."

"But you would expect some sort of fee—"

"My lord, that is hardly the point!" Violet caught herself and softened her tone. "My lord, surely you're aware of the unscrupulous chicanery some men might resort to when lured by a fortune such as mine. How quickly might they trick me into some unsavory situation just long enough to compromise my virtue?" She paused, overcome by the images suddenly springing to her mind. "And then, my lord, how long before I met with some fatal accident, hmm?"

She watched his face, appalled at her own rash description of what might befall her at the hands of a fortune hunter. But it had turned his thinking. She could see it in his eyes and in the set of his jaw.

The Earl of Markham sat in silence for several long minutes, then lifted his gaze and looked at her. "I see, my lady, that you are more in need of a guardian than a husband. I would take it as a point of honor to serve as that guardian. But serving as husband is quite another thing."

Again he paused, but Violet could see a measure of calm settle within him as he relaxed a bit into his chair.

He continued. "You have outlined quite succinctly what you are willing to offer me with your money. Now I would like to know what you demand in return."

"That is only fair, my lord." Violet maintained her poise even as her entire being was flooded with relief. "I have three stipulations for the money I am willing to put in your care. My first demand is the deed to one of the estates my money will save."

"Is there an estate you have in mind, my lady?"

"No. That will be your choice. I do not expect the Markham country seat. I do not need anything so large, or grand."

"You would be satisfied having whatever estate I choose to give you?"

"I would." Violet wanted to laugh. "I am indifferent to opulence and grandeur. I do not anticipate our doing a great amount of entertaining."

"You do not enjoy entertaining?"

"That was something my mother and sister truly enjoyed. Father and I preferred to spend quiet evenings at home."

Violet looked at the surprised expression on his face and thought perhaps she'd disappointed him. Perhaps he was more like her mother and sister and enjoyed attending each and every ton event.

"Are you fond of spending the evenings of the Season attending balls and soirees? If so, you would be free to spend the Seasons in London without me."

"No. Large gatherings do not interest me either. I enjoy a quieter lifestyle."

"I am happy to hear that," she said. "Although you would have free rein to come and go as you please."

He seemed to think on that for a few moments. "Are you suggesting I find a mistress, my lady?"

Violet felt her cheeks grow hot. "No, my lord. Not at all. I simply know that is the way it is in some marriages, but I hope you will be satisfied with ours enough that you will not have need of other companionship."

"I would hope the same," he said softly.

Violet breathed a heavy sigh. She had a difficult time continuing. Markham helped her out.

"And your second demand?" he asked.

Violet hesitated. She was afraid he would take exception to this demand and was ready to explain her reasons.

She cleared her throat. "I would like children, my lord. Several children, in fact."

"You want a house filled with children, Lady Violet?"

"Yes, my lord. I do."

"May I ask why?"

"Mainly, I want several because I like children. I am very fond of them. And…because"—Violet paused and took a deep breath—"I was raised nearly the same as an only child and found it to be very lonely. I don't want our children to be lonely. I want them to have several brothers and sisters to grow up with. And…"

"Yes? And?"

"I assume you will need an heir and at least one or two spares."

"Yes. I would like more than one heir."

Violet breathed a sigh of relief. She was glad that point was taken care of.

"Is there anything else?"

"Nothing major, my lord. Other than to inform you that I was raised more by my father than my mother, and he taught me everything there was to know about farming practices, as well as taking care of the ledgers. I'm sure you are well trained in these areas, too, so I will not presume to take over the running of your estates. I would, however, appreciate taking care of the running of the estate where I live."

"That would be most agreeable, my lady. I am not as well trained in the running of an estate as you might think. I was shipped off to join Her Majesty's army at a young age and learned very little of farming practices. I should appreciate any help you can offer in this area."

"It would be my pleasure," Violet said.

"Is there anything else, my lady?" Mrs. Dove-Lyon asked. She wore a satisfied expression, as if she was very pleased with how this first meeting had progressed.

"No, Mrs. Dove-Lyon. I believe we covered the most important details."

"And you, Lord Markham? Do we have anything more of your concerns to cover?"

"None that I can think of," he said. "Although I was not as prepared as Lady Violet. May I have a day or two to think over this situation?"

"Of course. We will meet again in two days' time."

"Very well," they both said, and rose to leave.

Violet left the room first and went out the way she'd come in. She didn't wait for Lord Markham to walk with her. She was afraid that would force him to speak to her, and she wasn't brave enough to carry on a conversation with him.

"Lord Markham," Mrs. Dove-Lyon said, stopping him from leaving.

"Yes, Mrs. Dove-Lyon?"

"I know you have one property you are most insistent upon keeping in your possession. Parkwood Manor, I believe it's called."

"Yes," he answered. "That was my grandmother's estate."

"Just a little incentive to encourage you to accept Lady Slushman's offer. I own all of your father and brother's markers."

Lord Markham seemed to stagger the tiniest bit.

"You?"

"Yes. I have purchased them all. If you truly want to hold on to Parkwood Manor, you will accept Lady Slushman's offer. Otherwise you will lose that property forever."

"How did you—"

"Good day, Lord Markham. It has been a pleasure speaking with you."

Mrs. Dove-Lyon walked to the door and held it open for him. He was dismissed.

Violet reached the bottom of the stairs and walked out into the cool night air. Milo was waiting across the street for her.

She'd only taken a step or two when several men approached her.

"It's her," one of the men said. "Lady Slushman."

"Stop, my lady," another man called out. "We're here for your choosing. You can have any one of us. Just take your pick."

Violet pushed back against one of the men. "Let me pass," she said, struggling to make her way to Milo.

Before she could reach him, one of the men grabbed her and pulled her toward him.

"No!" she yelled as Milo pushed his way through the men to reach her, but one of the men swung and punched Milo in the jaw.

Violet felt herself getting pushed one way then the other. Suddenly, strong hands clasped her arms and pulled her toward him.

"Leave my wife alone!" a commanding voice bellowed, and Violet felt strong, masculine arms pull her against him and hold her.

"Your wife?" the first man said.

"You married her?" the second man said.

"You lucky bugger!" another man called out. "Do you know how much she's worth? You're bloody rich!"

"But you're going to have to look at that face every day," another man said, cackling.

"Come on," Lord Markham ordered Violet, wrapping his arms around her. "Let's get out of here," he said, and pulled her to her carriage. He helped her inside, then stepped in after her.

"Follow us, George," he said to his own driver, then closed the door to Violet's carriage and knocked on the roof.

Milo slapped the reins, and the horses jolted the carriage forward. When they turned the corner to Violet's townhouse, she saw a crowd of men holding flowers and standing in front of the house.

"Is this what you meant?" Markham asked.

"Yes."

Milo didn't even slow down, but went several blocks further, then turned down an alley. He stopped the carriage when they reached the servants' entrance to her home.

Violet and Lord Markham descended and rushed into the house through the kitchen door.

"Oh, my lady," Cook said, twisting her apron in her hands. "It's been a wild night, it has. Take yourself inside and I'll bring you some tea and sandwiches."

"Never mind that, Cook," Violet said. "We'll be in Mother's sitting room until it quiets down outside," she said, and led the way up the back stairs.

The minute they entered the room, Violet turned to face Lord Markham.

"I'm so sorry I got you into this," she said. "It's been like this ever since word was broadcast about my inheritance."

"I'll go to Doctors' Commons first thing in the morning," he said, "and apply for a special license, then bring a vicar back with me. We'll be married by noon and leave London shortly after."

Violet locked her gaze with his and evaluated what she saw in his face—regret, defeat, dissatisfaction. "No, wait," she said.

"Why?"

You're going to have to look at that face every day.

The unkind words rang in her ears, beating down the joy she had allowed herself to feel for a moment.

"I've changed my mind. I don't want to marry you."