Page 50 of The Scoundrel of Drury Lane
“You cannot promise that.”
“Perhaps not, but I learned over the last seven years that what a person believes in may be the only thing that helps them survive times of strife.”
Suzannah brushed her fingers over his cheek when she saw that flash of old pain in his eyes. She had to trust him. Shewantedto believe that a hasty marriage would not be a mistake.
“Very well, then... tomorrow,” she agreed. Part of her still worried that this was all a dream. Was she really going to marry the Earl of Kentwell in less than a day?
She gasped in horror. “Oh heavens, that means I’ll be a countess.”
“You do not seem pleased by the prospect,” Kit observed with a sardonic look.
“I do not know anything about being a lady of quality, having dinners, balls, or even dancing.” She swayed as a wave of dread made her suddenly weak in the knees.
“Fear not, you will learn,” Kit promised.
“You were born into this life. I was not,” she argued. “What if I make a fool of you?”
He placed a finger to her lips. “You wouldnevermake a fool of me. I already bring with me enough scandal for both of us. I rather think people will wonder whyyouhave chosen to marryme, rather than the other way around. Why not have Palmer instruct you in the things you are worried about? He’s deuced good at all of that.”
She nibbled her bottom lip, still fretting as she considered his suggestion. “You don’t think he would mind?”
“Not at all.” Kit leaned down and kissed her again, making her dizzy as he clutched her shoulders. His tongue sank between her parted lips and teased her wickedly.
“How on earth do you do that?” she demanded when they finally broke apart.
“Do what?” He tilted his head, smiling at her as if he knew exactly what she was asking but would never admit to it.Wicked man...
“That thing with your tongue,” she whispered.
“A man must havesomesecrets, darling.” He chuckled and gave her bottom a playful pat. “We should return to breakfast. You need to have a proper meal to start your day. Then we will discuss your lessons with Palmer. Darius and I shall procure a special marriage license and arrange for the ceremony. By tomorrow, we shall be man and wife.”
“Man and wife...” Suzannah echoed the words with a mixture of excitement and fear.
13
Suzannah survived the breakfast with Kit and his friends. They took turns delighting her with tales of Kit’s boyhood and the harmless but amusing antics he had gotten up to. At first Kit had glowered in embarrassment, but he soon relaxed and even smiled a little. That made her happy more than anything else, just seeing him smile. The stark fortress surrounding Kit’s heart was crumbling. The more open his heart became, the better chance she had to make him fall in love with her.
Once the servants cleared the plates away, Kit pulled Suzannah to one side of the room to speak privately.
“While Darius and I are obtaining the special license, I’ve decided that you will go shopping on Bond Street for a new wardrobe. Lionel’s sister, Octavia, has recently come into society. Lionel has sent word to his mother that he shall be taking you with them when he escorts them on their shopping today. You are to buy a wedding gown and anything else you may require. Do not fret about cost—money is no object, as far as I’m concerned.”
“Surely I do not need so very much?” She hated to think of him spending money on her for something she’d only wear once.
Kit’s expression softened as he stroked the ribbons in her hair. “Purchase a hundred gowns, if you like... and be sure to buy plenty of ribbons.”
She blushed as she felt the stares of his friends upon them. Kit had mostly shielded her from their view, but they were tall enough that she glimpsed them over the mountain of his shoulder.
“Buy sheer underthings, kid gloves, boots and slippers, silly bonnets. Buy it all, my darling,” Kit said more quietly. “Give me the joy of being kind to you. Let me gift you these things and know that they are yours because I care.”
Hecared... How could such a small word mean so much to her? How could this man, once such a dark, brooding, and frankly terrifying man, elicit the softest of emotions within her?
“All right.” She couldn’t deny him anything when he asked her like that.
With a triumphant smile, Kit kissed her forehead. “Now, wait here for Octavia and Lady Somerstone. Darius and I must leave now. I shall see you this evening for dinner.”
Darius bowed and followed Kit out of the drawing room. The rest of Kit’s companions politely excused themselves, except for Lionel.
“My mother and sister will be along presently. I shall make the introductions when they arrive.” He smiled at her, but Suzannah was still more than ever aware of her lack of social standing compared to both Kit and his companions. She wasn’t sure how to act or what to say without Kit there to guide her.
