Page 31 of Six Nights to Marry a Marquess

“With the commotion you both managed to create prior to your knocking, it would have been rather challenging not to,” Theodore responded with a light chuckle, attempting to diffuse the tension that lingered at the doorstep of his study.

“You’ve neglected breakfast again, Theodore,” Harriet announced more than asked, brushing past him into thesanctuary of his study as if to mark her disapproval with her presence alone.

Leslie trailed behind her, closing the door with a soft click before joining the impromptu family gathering. “It seems an age since we last broke bread together, brother,” Harriet lamented, her tone a blend of complaint and concern. “Or even glimpsed your shadow in the corridor,” she added, her hands planted firmly on her hips as she adopted a stance that belied her years, casting a maternal gaze upon Theodore.

Theodore couldn’t help but smile, though it did little to soften Harriet’s stern demeanor.

“Oh, come now, Harriet, surely it hasn’t been quite so long,” he attempted to assure her, seeking to lighten the mood.

“My hair has grown by a good seven inches since last you dined with us, brother,” Harriet countered, her exaggeration aimed at underscoring the seriousness of her complaint.

“Now, you’re clearly embellishing the truth,” Theodore retorted, unable to suppress a grin as Leslie’s laughter bubbled up, a welcome sound amidst the somber undertones of their conversation.

“We understand you’ve been keeping to yourself because of the whispers,” Harriet pressed. “What truly transpires, Theodore?” Her query had more concern than impatience, a genuine plea for transparency.

“The gossip columns suggest–” Leslie attempted to interject, but Theodore cut him off swiftly, his tone firm yet gentle.

“Give no credence to the scandal sheets, Leslie dear. They are but a hotbed of fabrications and folly.”

“Then what is transpiring?” Harriet’s hands gestured expressively, her frustration evident. “The entirety of Town whispers of scandal, leaving us to sift through rumors for the semblance of truth. It feels as though the world is privy to a secret from which only we are excluded,” she lamented.

Theodore couldn’t help but feel a wave of guilt wash over him at her words. He realized he had done them a disservice by not confiding in them sooner. They deserved to hear the truth directly from him.

Yet, the weight of the situation had been overwhelming, necessitating a period of solitude for him to grapple with the rapid changes his life was undergoing.

“The reality of the matter,” Theodore began, drawing a deep breath before continuing, “is that I am to wed Miss Agnes Young.”

The transformation in Harriet was immediate, her earlier frustration swiftly giving way to an almost unbridled enthusiasm. “A new sister!” Leslie exclaimed, her delight uncontained.

“When is the ceremony to be held? Have the arrangements commenced? Will the event take place here or perhaps in the countryside?” Harriet’s inquiries came rapid-fire, her eagerness palpable.

Theodore couldn’t recall a time when his sisters had displayed such fervor, and despite the circumstances, it warmed his heart to see them so elated.

“One matter at a time, my dears,” he attempted to interject, his words aimed at tempering their zeal. “There remains much to be organized.”

“Which only underscores the need to begin posthaste,” Harriet countered, already lost in thoughts of the forthcoming celebration. “What attire do you suppose Miss Young will select?” Her curiosity swiftly shifted to their own preparations. “Leslie, what gowns shall we don?” she mused, turning to her sister as they delved into a spirited discussion of potential dresses, colors, and fabrics.

Theodore’s revelation, far from calming the storm of their excitement, had only served to fuel it further, sending his sisters into a whirlwind of wedding-related speculation and planning.

After his sisters’ exit, Theodore decided to pen a note to Agnes, asking her for her time tomorrow afternoon. And curiously, he found himself anticipating this meeting.

The ensuing afternoon found Theodore escorting Agnes to a locale that held a special place in his heart: his favored bookstorenestled within the heart of Town. Their public appearances together were strategic, aiming to sway the unfavorable views society held regarding their impending union.

“Why, I was wholly unaware such a treasure was tucked away in Town,” Agnes remarked, her voice laced with wonder as her eyes danced over the eclectic collection that filled the cozy shop to the brim.

Theodore felt a surge of satisfaction knowing she appreciated the bookstore as much as he did. After all, it was a sanctuary for him, a place where the tumult of the outside world seemed to fade into the background.

“I pride myself on recognizing true gems,” he responded, a hint of playfulness in his tone.

“Engaging in a bit of self-congratulation, are we?” Agnes quipped, her laughter soft and melodic as she continued to peruse the titles that lined the shelves.

However, when she faced him once more, the light-heartedness had ebbed from her expression, replaced by a seriousness that piqued Theodore’s concern. “You spoke previously of implementing certain changes... Do you genuinely believe they will be effective?” she inquired, sounding worried.

Her concern, though unexpected, was not unwarranted. The path they had chosen to undertake was fraught with uncertainty, a gamble of sorts in the high stakes game of societal perception.

“If our efforts fail to yield the desired outcome, we have our original agreement to rely upon,” Theodore offered by way of reassurance.

“Does that pact still stand?” The surprise in her eyes was unmistakable, as if she had braced herself for a different answer.

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