Page 11 of The Lord Next Door I Wished For
“He’s anxious to speak with you,” his mother started slowly.
Luke set down the tea. Dread settled in his stomach, making the tea and biscuits churn. This was why he’d been wary to return home. The thought of the encounter to come with his grandfather was even more daunting than the duties and obligations that came with inheriting the title of marquess.
“His Grace is eager to discuss your marriage prospects,” his mother said.
Luke pinched the bridge of his nose. It wasn’t like he hadn’t seen this coming. “You mean, he wishes to discuss his heirs.”
His mother winced. “He feels it’s more important now than ever to ensure that you…” His mother trailed off when he glanced over. She gave him an apologetic smile that seemed to say,please don’t shoot the messenger.“That you marry well and—”
“And provide an heir,” he said shortly. “Yes, I know.”
His mother twisted her hands in her lap, her expression pained, and Luke instantly regretted his curt tone. “I understand, Mother. And I am not averse to marriage. You know that.”
Marriage and heirs all fell part and parcel under the realm of obligations. He’d understood that his whole life. His father’s unexpected passing merely made the topic more pressing…at least as far as his grandfather was concerned.
“Yes, it’s just…” She winced. “He has a list, you see.”
Luke straightened. “A list?”
“Of potential wives,” she finished.
“Mother, I am a grown man. I can choose my own wife.”
“I know that, darling,” she said quickly. “But you know your grandfather arranged your father’s marriage to me, and as he is the head of this family—”
“I will not let Grandfather make this decision for me.”
“Very well.” His mother was too quiet for too long. “But he will be here soon—”
“When?”
“Er, three days' time, I believe?” She gave him a wan smile. “If you don’t have anyone specific in mind, I’m afraid he may take matters into his own hands.”
Luke groaned. Where was he going to find a bride-to-be in three days’ time? And here in the middle of the country? If he were in London, perhaps he could arrange to call upon a lady of his acquaintance, but here there were only meadows, and cows, and…
And the neighboring estate.
Luke bolted out of his seat so quickly his mother let out a little squeak. “Luke, are you all right?”
“Yes, just…thinking.” Thrusting a hand through his hair, Luke paced the length of the drawing room as his mind raced ahead of him, calculating and strategizing.
Jane had made it clear she didn’t wish to marry, and certainly not him. She’d spoken those very words to his face. But what was it his mother had said?
She wanted freedom.
And Luke wanted the same.
Perhaps…
The idea was ludicrous. He couldn’t honestly be thinking about marrying the girl next door. He’d never thought of her like that…
His mind called up an image of Jane from the other night. Not the girl he’d known but the proud, stunning young lady he hadn’t even recognized.
His chest tightened and his mouth grew so dry he couldn’t swallow.
He might not have thought of her as a marriage prospect before, but she’d been a child then. She was a woman now. Not to mention, the daughter of a wealthy, powerful earl.
Not even his grandfather could find fault with her lineage.
