Page 24 of The Marquess's Imperfect Brid
Gareth turned to see his brother slipping into the room quietly, closing the door behind him. His expression was one of concern and sympathy, and Gareth found himself grateful for his brother’s arrival.
“Thomas,” he said wearily. “Please, come join me.”
Thomas nodded, walking over and taking the seat across from his brother.
“You could not have convinced me not to,” he said. “Pray, tell me what troubles you? You are not yourself at all, and you look miserable.”
Gareth snorted, giving his brother a wry smile.
“What a kind compliment,” he quipped.
Thomas rolled his eyes, but he flashed Gareth a quick smile.
“You deserve it,” he said before his expression grew serious again. “Tell me what is on your mind.”
Gareth sighed.
“It is Mother and Father, as much as that might surprise you,” he said, staring off into the fireplace as he spoke.
Thomas grunted.
“I might have suspected as much,” he said. “I can see that they have not quit in their efforts to marry you off to Lady Cecilia.”
Gareth chortled again, shaking his head.
“They have not,” he said. “In fact, it seems to be irrevocable in their minds that it shall come to pass.”
Thomas nodded, furrowing his brows with saddened eyes.
“I imagine that is difficult for you,” he said, shaking his head. “And yet, you seemed so happy at the picnic. And at the end of the dinner party at Farenley Manor, as well.”
Gareth nodded, smiling despite the anguish within him.
“Lady Grace renders even the most tiresome social gatherings endurable,’ he remarked. ‘Whilst my parents endeavour to steer me toward Lady Cecilia, I find my affections increasingly drawn to Lady Grace. I am aware that I am expected to ally myself with a lady of Lady Cecilia's station and qualities. Yet, my heart yearns for Lady Grace above all else.”
Thomas listened intently, his eyes caring and compassionate.
“That would indeed be a most arduous endeavor for any gentleman, I am certain," he remarked. "I am but a poor hand at matters concerning romance, matrimony, and the expectations of the nobility. While I offer my heartfelt sympathy for your predicament, I must confess that I am ill-equipped to dispense any sagacious counsel.”
Gareth nodded, giving his brother a wan smile.
“Having you to talk to is more invaluable to me than any advice ever could be,” he said. “I am aware that this is a predicament which I must resolve for myself.”
Thomas nodded, but he still looked worried.
“If the idea of marrying Lady Cecilia makes you this haggard, at least reconsider giving in to Mother and Father’s demands,” he said. “I might have little advice. But I can say that I cannot stand to see you so tortured, and that you must at least consider what would make you happier.”
Gareth nodded, even though the dejection did not leave him.
“Thank you, Brother,” he said. “I know that only I can make this choice. I only wish that knowledge made it easier.”
Thomas rose, clapping Gareth on the shoulder.
“I believe that if life were easier, it would be called Heaven,” he said with a tired smile of his own. “Good night, big brother. And try to rest easy. If anyone can fix this dilemma, it is you.”
Gareth patted his brother’s hand before Thomas pulled it away and gave him another nod.
“Good night, little brother,” he said softly.
