Page 124 of Every Rake Has A Silver Lining

As Judith instructed a servant to bring tea, Charlotte marveled at her good fortune. Who would have imagined being caught in a scandalous situation would have such a positive outcome? Not only had Simon made good on his promise not to force her in the marriage bed, he’d actually proven to be a gentle and giving husband.

That alone would have satisfied Charlotte, but she’d also gained a loving family and a beautiful home. The Beckhams had welcomed her with open arms, and although Judith would never completely fill the void left by Charlotte’s mother, acceptance intotheir family overwhelmed her. Never one prone to tears, a strange sensation pricked Charlotte's eyes.

But would the Beckhams be so accepting if they knew the real reason Simon had married her?

As she settled onto the sofa next to her mother-in-law, the truth burdened Charlotte. “Judith, there is something you must know about my marriage to Simon.”

“If you’re talking about what the scandal sheets reported, I don’t put much credence in gossip.” Judith’s cheeks darkened. “Although I will admit I enjoy reading it.”

Charlotte blinked. “You knew?” Charlotte’s appreciation of the woman’s kindness increased tenfold. “Well, in my case, it’s true. Part of it anyway. Simon married me to save my reputation. Ours is not a love match.”

With her lips pressed together, Judith delivered a look perfected by all mothers when chastising their children. “Charlotte. I have eyes. You may not love my son—yet—but Simon’s heart is yours. It’s written all over his face every time he looks at you.”

In the past, such a statement would have resulted in Charlotte suggesting the individual consider acquiring spectacles, but she held her tongue. She was enjoying the newfound relationship with Simon’s family too much to jeopardize it.

Luckily, Judith continued, patting Charlotte’s hand. “And I have no doubt in time Simon will win you over. He has a way about him.”

Indeed. A way he used on all women. Perhaps Judith’s active imagination was selective, and the affection she witnessed on Simon’s face was no different from when he gazed at any other woman.

A maid deposited a tray with tea and scones, and Judith poured them both a cup. She handed one to Charlotte. “In fact, I would venture to say you’re on your way to loving him,” Judithcontinued, apparently not able to drop the subject. “You have a certain glow about you this morning.”

Charlotte choked on her tea.

Judith’s eyes crinkled at the corners as she gazed at Charlotte over the rim of her cup.

Salvation rushed to her aid in the form of Georgie. “Charlotte!” She plopped next to Charlotte on the sofa, her dark curls bouncing against her slender shoulders. “You came back!”

“Of course she did,” Judith said. “She’s family.”

Oh.That strange pricking occurred in her eyes again.

“Where’s Simon?” Georgie asked.

“Fishing,” Charlotte said, happy to have Georgie change the subject. “How is Sir Night of the Meow Table faring? Was he frightened of the storm last night?”

Georgie’s blue eyes widened. “He was! How did you know? Was Trifle scared, too?”

“Not as frightened as I was.” Goodness, did she just admit that? She blamed it on the Beckhams and their unfailing acceptance.

“Oh, you’re being silly,” Georgie said, giving Charlotte a gracious out.

A footman entered, then lowered a silver salver toward Judith.

Charlotte recognized the cream-colored parchment Judith lifted from the tray.

A copy ofThe Muckrakerhad made its way to Wiltshire.

Simon whistledas a fat brown trout flopped in his net. “Ah. You will make a fine reward for Trifle.” Not even the fact Gus had evaded his lures yet again could sour Simon’s mood.

Sunlight dappled the ground and streaked the river’s surface. Fish had descended deeper, reducing his chances of any furthercatches. Simon packed up his tackle and headed back to the house, eager to see Charlotte again.

Had he really missed her after only being apart for a few hours?

Perhaps loving someone, being in love, wasn’t so bad after all. At least Charlotte didn’t love him in return. When he finally succumbed to the accursed malaria, she wouldn’t grieve. And if things continued as they had the previous night, she would have a child to dote upon and occupy her mind. Perhaps many children.

He quickened his pace at the idea of making said children.

When he arrived at the cottage, John told him Charlotte had taken the curricle.

---