Page 28 of A Hint of Scandal

“Well then. What do you see? No. Don’t answer me. The man looking back at you is one of the handsomest men in London. Forget your arm, for once. You wear it like a ball and chain and need to get out of that habit. Having it in a sling gives you the attractive air of a wounded soldier.”

“I am a wounded soldier.”

“Exactly. Just because you find your arm unpleasant does not mean women will. You’re tall. Taller than Julian and much more handsome.” She pulled a wry face. “Especially now he’s got so bald and fat. Not that I love him any less like that, but one has to be realistic. You, on the other hand, are a positive adonis.”

Max burst out laughing. “An adonis I am not, I can assure you.”

She shook her head. “Nonsense. You are making the mistake of considering yourself from the point of view of a man. I see you with a woman’s eyes and I find you most attractive.”

Max fidgeted. “Should I be worried?”

She laughed. “No, you shouldn’t. A woman can find a man attractive without following through. My love for your brother is steadfast, but I can see what other women must see in you. And I can assure you that your Miss Gilbert, Serafina, will not have been blind to your attributes.”

He frowned. “I don’t know. Perhaps you’re right. She was charming company.” He remembered her nervous demeanor as they’d neared the house in Great Titchfield Street. “And she’s clearly unhappy in her situation. But whatever you say, I don’t think she would agree. And not just because of my disability.”

“Your mama and I would very much like to see you married, Max, and I know Julian has asked you to marry before he… before he has to leave us.” Her voice faltered. This was the nearest she’d ever come to saying Julian’s time was limited.

Max reached out and covered her hand with his own. “I know I have to marry. I’m not such an idiot as to deliberately give up my inheritance out of contrariness. And I do like Miss Gilbert, but I feel knowing her for such a short time, I’m not in a position to decide whether to offer for her. And nor is she in a position to decide to say yes or not. In fact, what I fear is that she might choose to accept my offer just to escape her situation and then regret it afterwards.”

Maria shrugged. “She might, but an arranged marriage can develop into true love, you know. And I’m well aware that you don’t wish to attend the ‘marriage mart’ as other eligible gentlemen do.”

He nodded. “Not being able to dance is a handicap to begin with.”

She chuckled. “That and being as miserable as sin. Your expression last night was enough to put off anyone from approaching you. You didn’t circulate but instead kept close attendance on your mama. It’s a wonder you didn’t frighten off Arabella’s possible suitors.”

“I can’t help it if I feel as though everyone is staring at my arm.”

Maria huffed. “For goodness sake, forget about your arm. It means nothing. If you want my advice, you should pursue your Miss Gilbert. And invite her here for tea, but without her dreadful sister-in-law if possible. I’d like to meet her.”

He snorted. “Inspect her, you mean.”

“That as well. When are you seeing her next?”

He rubbed his forehead. “Thursday. I said I’d take her out in the carriage to the park. For some air.”

Her mouth widened in a triumphant smile. “Perfect. I see you need no directing from me. Perhaps you could bring her here for tea afterwards?”

He couldn’t be angry with her. She was far too well-meaning and loveable for that. “Very well, but no inquisition. Just be friendly.”

“As if I was ever anything else. Now. Off you go to bed and blow out my candles on your way out. I need my beauty sleep.” She dimpled at him. “And so do you in your new role as suitor.”