Page 73 of The Duke's Jilted Bride

“Nothing.” The response was automatic. “This doesn’t concern her.”

“Your wife doesn’t concern you?”

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Then what did you mean?” Felix pressed. “Because from where I’m sitting, you’re chasing something dangerous, and she doesn’t know she might be in the crossfire.”

Rowan kept his gaze fixed on the window, refusing to look at him. The truth was, he thought about Selina all the time. Wondered what she was doing. Whether she missed him or was simply glad for the quiet. But to bring her into this meant explaining everything—his abduction, the helplessness that still haunted him, the nightmares he hadn’t shaken.

“I’m protecting her,” he said at last, the words quieter than he’d intended.

“From what? The truth?”

“From becoming a target. Whoever arranged my disappearance might try to use her against me if they knew how much—” He stopped abruptly.

“How much what?” Felix leaned forward. “How much she means to you?”

“We have a marriage of convenience. Nothing more.”

Felix laughed outright. “You’re a terrible liar, Rowan. I’ve seen how you look at her. How you defended her from that harpy Lady Penderwick. That’s not the behavior of a man in a business arrangement.”

“Drop it, Felix.”

“As you wish.” His friend settled back, but his knowing smile remained. “Though I maintain you’re being an idiot.”

They spent the rest of the journey to London discussing strategy. Felix would make discreet inquiries about anyone named Edward Bentern in London society, while Rowan would travel to Plymouth to confront Latham. The accountant might provide the next link in the chain leading to whoever had orchestrated his abduction.

As London’s skyline appeared on the horizon, Rowan found his thoughts turning homeward.

Would Selina be waiting? Would she ask about his journey?

He needed to maintain his distance, to keep her safe from the shadows of his past. But with each passing day, that resolve grew harder to maintain. She was working her way under his skin, past his defenses, into places he’d thought permanently barricaded.

Felix was right about one thing—marriage had changed him.

The carriage rolled through London’s streets as evening fell, carrying him back to a wife he couldn’t quite bring himself to trust, and an enemy he couldn’t yet name. But he had a clue now, a thread to follow.

Edward Bentern, whoever he really was, had made a crucial mistake in leaving a paper trail. Rowan would follow it to its source, no matter where it led.

And then, finally, he would have his revenge.

CHAPTER 25

“How is my favorite countess today?” Isabella asked, her face brightening as Selina was shown into the morning room.

Selina smiled, crossing to embrace her friend. “No longer a countess, remember? And you look far too well-rested for a mother with a newborn.”

Isabella laughed, gesturing for Selina to take a seat beside her. “The benefits of having three nurses, though I insist on doing the night feedings myself. David says I’m mad, but those quiet moments are precious.”

The Bingham country home radiated warmth and ease, from its cheerful draperies to the fresh flowers thoughtfully placed on every table. Sunlight poured through the tall windows, casting a soft glow across Isabella’s face. Motherhood clearly suited her. She looked rested, peaceful, and entirely content.

“I want to see this little one who’s kept you from all the London gatherings,” Selina said, accepting a cup of tea from the maid.

Isabella smiled and pulled the bell cord. “She just woke from her nap, according to Nurse. Perfect timing for a visit from her godmother.”

“Godmother?” Selina paused, surprised, and set her cup down. “You didn’t say?—”

“We wanted to ask you in person.” Isabella reached for her hand. “David and I would be honored if you’d stand as Lily’s godmother. She needs a woman of strength and heart to look up to.”

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