Page 12 of Tempting the Marquess

And with that the damned turncoat nearly sprinted for the refreshment table.

“So, my lord, tell me,” said the baroness, retaking his arm and fixing him with a gimlet stare. “What qualities do you seek in a wife? Apart from the obvious of beauty and breeding, of course.”

“Truth be told I haven’t really—”

“Haven’t really considered it? Graciousme.”

“Naturally I’ve considered it,” he countered, quelling his irritation. “But when one has obligations requiring frequent absences, it would be rather unfair on a wife, don’t you think?”

“Fustian. The future Marchioness of Standish will know her duty. Now, I must admit I’m rather shocked Jane Westleigh hasn’t taken the situation in hand. A man of your stature shouldn’t be running around a bachelor!”

“Lady Havenhurst—”

“Her son is settled, although it was such a shame that dear Caroline presented him with twin daughters instead of an heir. He no doubt hopes she’ll do better next time. An heir and a spare to secure the title and no dilly-dallying about, that’s what I always say. So, my lord. Attributes. Tall or short? Fair-haired or dark? Well read, musically accomplished? Unlike so many others, I daresay a less than impressive dowry won’t troubleyou.”

Clasping his hands behind his back so he didn’t strangle the woman, William attempted a smile. From her startled recoil, he didn’t succeed. Hell. He was probably bestowing upon the baroness the look that George referred to as ‘the gentleman assassin’, all icy refined menace. “Your interest in my wellbeing and future happiness is humbling, my lady. I will share two rather important qualities I’d like my future wife to possess: sensitivity and discretion.”

“Of course, of course!” Lady Havenhurst said, relaxing. “My husband searched for exactly those traits also…well, I never. Would you look at who has just arrived! Caroline Westleigh and Samantha Buchanan.”

Oh thank God. “By your tone I take it they are not your favorites?” he enquired softly.

“Well, Lady Westleigh is the daughter of a duke. And we adore her husband, and brother Trentham, of course. But those good looks are wasted on someone so ridiculously tall. Not to mention her frightfultemper.”

“Some might say,” he murmured noncommittally, trying not to grin at the thought of Caroline overhearing and launching the baroness headfirst out a window.

“As for Claremont’schit...”

“What about Lady Samantha?” he answered, his voice chilling.

“Well, like so many others, I can only sympathize with poor Jane. She truly is a saint, taking on her niece’s come out for her shameful brother and his harlot wife when they are such terrible ton. The girl shouldn’t be allowed near decent people. Lowers thetone.”

“Really? When I danced with Lady Samantha last night, I found her to be charming.”

Lady Havenhurst’s face drained of color then turned pea-green. “You...youdid?”

“Yes. Actually, she’s always been charming,” William continued frigidly. “Known her since she was an infant. The Westleighs are delighted to be sponsoring Lady Samantha’s first Season, and Trentham, Ardmore, Southby, and I have all pledged our full support to ensure it is pleasant experience. Anything else would be disappointing. Exceedingly disappointing.”

“Certainly, your lordship,” choked out the baroness. “Only silly people listen to silly gossip. If you’ll excuse me, I must go and welcome the newest arrivals then attend to my other guests.”

“The mark of a fine hostess, Lady Havenhurst. I’ll accompany you to greetthem.”

As they strolled across the drawing room, he reminded himself that Lady Samantha was probably the daughter of a traitor, completely off limits, and not to be touched, admired or gazed at under any circumstances.

Indeed, his mind snickered. But look at the pink gown she’s nearly sewn into. One too-deep breath and it would be all over. And the color, doesn’t it make her mouth look even lusher, like she’s spent the last few hours being thoroughly kissed? Imagine how she would taste, how those plump lips would feel on your skin, on yourc...

“Focus, man,” he muttered furiously.

“Excuse me, my lord, did you say something?”

“No, no...Lady Westleigh, Lady Samantha, good afternoon to youboth.”

“Lord Standish,” replied Caroline, her usual unrepentant grin somewhat muted. “I wasn’t expecting to see you in this particular drawingroom.”

Lady Havenhurst inhaled deeply, but she also managed a smile. “I’m so very glad you were able to come today, Carolinedear.”

“Are you, Mary dear?” Caroline replied, tilting her head. “Well then, we are glad to be here. Have you met Lady Samantha Buchanan?”

“Not officially. Welcome, my lady. I am acquainted with your aunt, she is a lovely woman.”