Page 2 of The Truth about the Marquess
Emma sniffed and dabbed at her nose but nodded.
“I do not want you to go.”
“I know that. But I will return very often to visit. You are not so far away from London now, are you?”
Her sister’s smile wobbled.
“No, I suppose we are not. Though,” she continued, squeezing Jane’s hand so tightly that it was a little painful, “will you not stay at our townhouse in London rather than find lodgings? That would be a help to you, would it not?”
Jane smiled.
“It would be, and I would be glad to accept.”
Emma closed her eyes, her smile still present but sadness in it all the same.
“That is good. And I might have someone who could offer you something as regards your financial status, my dear Jane.”
“Employment?” Astonished, Jane’s eyebrows lifted high. “Who is it that you know who would employ a young lady, such as myself, as a governess?”
“Ah, but I did not say as a governess,” came the reply, making Jane’s brows fall into a frown. “You did not hear me say that.”
“Then what would it be?” Jane grew a little irritated as her sister shrugged her shoulders. “Please, Emma, do not frustrate me so!”
Emma smiled and this time, it was without tears in her eyes.
“I cannot give you any details, not until I am sure that it might be a possibility, at the very least. But have no fear, it is something that you are going to be well able to do, I am sure. Something that will give you all the security you hope for.”
Trying to push her irritation away, Jane turned her head away from her sister.
“Very well, I shall wait.”
“Good.” Emma beamed as Jane threw her a quick glance, either not in the least bit concerned, or barely even noticing Jane’s frustration. “Now, shall we ring for tea?” Leaning back, she rubbed at her eyes, the other hand on her rounded stomach. “Though I am feeling rather fatigued.”
“You go to rest,” Jane suggested, getting to her feet. “I will ring the bell and serve the tea.” Walking across the room, Jane was struck by a sudden sadness, a sadness which seemed to wash over her, She had lived here for two years now, and soon her time with her sister and family would come to an end. Here, it was comfortable and cozy, for she knew what was expected of her, knew her role, and that she was not being judged for anything she either said or did, unlike when she had been living with her late husband. To go to London, however, was entirely different - for there, many would speak about her, many would whisper about her, and she would have to do her best to quell the rumors – or try to ignore them as best she could. Could she do it?Or would she find it all too much to bear and, instead, rush back to the comfort and safety of the Armitage estate?
Chapter One
“Ido not understand.” Scowling, Oliver Marston, Marquess of Edenbridge, rubbed one hand over his face and then shook his head. “I have done all that I can to convince Lady Anna that I am sincere and yet, she continued to flirt with every gentleman present!”
“But you cannot blame yourself for that,” came the reply, a heavy hand settling on Oliver’s shoulder. “You know as well as I do that there are many young ladies here in London who will care nothing for any of the gentlemen that they might offer some attention to!”
Oliver scowled.
“I do not much like that.”
His friend, the Earl of Dunstable, grinned broadly.
“I am sure that you do not, but that is the way of things. The young women here are all seeking an excellent match, in way of both title and fortune.”
“Both of which I have.”
“Ah, but what of your fortune?” Lord Dunstable winced as Oliver threw him a sharp look. “You have been in London ever since you were a young lad out of Eton. Thetonknows of yourfather and his lack of wealth when it came to the end of his days here on earth. Now, however, they also know thatyouhave been bearing the burden of repairing that situation and that your fortune does not match the fortunes of others of your standing.” Oliver’s shoulders dropped as Lord Dunstable continued, a sudden heaviness planting itself upon his shoulders. “Yes, my friend, they will offer you smiles and bright eyes, but they may not offer you anything more than that. Not until they can be sure that you are their best choice!”
Scowling, Oliver looked away, heat on his face.
“I am aware that I do not have the very best of fortunes, all thanks to my father and his foolish investments, but I have worked hard to improve it.” Oliver rubbed one hand over his face. “Nor do I know if society believes me in that regard either, for no matter what I say, the words seem to be lost on the wind. I see the suspicion in their glances and hear the whispers being passed between them. I find it all quite exhausting, truth be told.”
“Making your fortune again has been tiring, I am sure, but does it still continue to be such a weight upon you?”
