The Marquess's Christmas Runaway Read online

  His attention was caught by a shop that seemed particularly busy and he moved towards it. Most of the customers were women but he could see a few men. He wandered inside. The most popular counter held a selection of painted fans. They were quite delightful, perfect presents. He selected one each for Georgie, Sally and Eliza, in different designs.

  He marched back to the Blue Boar and unloaded his parcels. He tidied his windswept appearance as best he could and regretted not bringing Jepson with him. So much rested on his interview at the Archbishop’s office. Selina would do her best to cause a scandal to try and stop the wedding if she got wind of it. He paced his bedroom until it was time to set off for his appointment. His shoulders felt tight and a pulse jumped at his temples.

  Chapter Seven

  Georgie exclaimed at the quality of Martha’s stitching when she brought the green gown for her to try on.

  “My mother worked in a dressmaker’s shop before she married, my lady. She’s taught me everything she knows.”

  Georgie sighed. “I’m Miss Sherborne.”

  “Not for long and I thought it would be a good idea to practice. I don’t think His Lordship would be best pleased if I carried on calling you Miss Sherborne after the wedding.”

  Betty glared at the girl. “Martha, remember what I’ve told you.”

  Martha turned bright pink and stared at the ground. “I’m sorry, Miss Sherborne. I should do exactly what you tell me and not comment on my betters.”

  Georgie was distracted by the sound of an arrival. She rubbed at her temple. She hoped Max had got his marriage licence, at least then she would be out of this state of constant worry. Any more days of wandering aimlessly would be too much to bear.

  Betty cut into her thoughts. “That sounds like His Lordship. Why not put on the green gown to meet him, Miss Sherborne?”

  Georgie opened her mouth to protest and then shut it again. Why not? Martha had left a bit of growing room but it was a much better fit than her brown dress. It might help her feel more confident.

  A scant ten minutes later she descended the stairs. Her heart skipped to a faster beat when she saw Max standing at the bottom. He seemed disinclined to say anything. She forced legs that somehow seemed distant from her to negotiate the last few treads. Max caught her hand and raised it to his lips. She shivered and recognised the warm feeling that spread from her hand right and thrummed through her body as desire.

  Max was the most attractive man she had ever come across. How would a girl like her hold his interest for any longer than it took to give him an heir? Heat flooded her cheeks and she was glad of his support when he threaded her arm through his.

  “Come. Let’s go and tell Eliza and Nat the good news.” He patted a pocket with his free hand. “I have the licence here and I made a detour to the vicarage on the way home. Mr Wright will marry us tomorrow morning.”

  Georgie allowed herself to be led into the library where Nat and Eliza were sharing a sofa in front of the fire. She saw them spring apart as they entered and her heart ached. That was the sort of relationship she wanted. Would she be able to achieve it with Max? She sank into the seat he showed her to.

  Max stayed on his feet. “The marriage is arranged for eleven o’clock tomorrow morning. I don’t think the vicar was best pleased but he cheered up when I offered to pay for the repairs needed to the church roof.”

  Eliza laughed. “Oh Max, it is Christmas. You surely didn’t expect him to be full of joy at fitting in an extra service.” She jumped up. “If you will all excuse me, I had better go and organise the servants. Georgie, I will be so glad when I can hand over the role of Max’s hostess.”

  Georgie smiled at her. “Would you like me to come and help?” Anything to get away from Max’s unsettling presence.

  “That’s a good idea if you feel up to it. There’s a lot to learn and I’ll give you as much help as I can over Christmas.”

  Both men stood as they left the room. From wanting to escape, Georgie felt bereft once she was away from Max. It would be mortifying if he knew what effect he had on her. She hoped Eliza wouldn’t notice her hot cheeks. Eliza led the way to the housekeeper’s room. Georgie stiffened. She had managed to avoid Mrs Powell but, once she was running the household, regular contact would be necessary. This was going to be uncomfortable but at least she had Eliza with her.

  Eliza stopped and pulled her into a sitting room. “You look nervous. I had forgotten, but Betty told me you had a bad start with Mrs Powell.”

  Her cheeks so hot it was a wonder she didn’t set the room on fire, Georgie nodded. “I’m afraid so. I’m sure she thought I was a woman of easy virtue.”

  “I can’t say I’ve ever liked the woman. I don’t remember how Max came to employ her. An agency I suppose. Don’t be shy. If you aren’t at ease with her after a week or two you must talk to Max. If necessary, he will pay her off and you can select someone else.”

  “She couldn’t entirely be blamed and it seems harsh to dismiss her for making a mistake that many people might have made.”

  “It’s your decision but if you’re still not entirely comfortable with her in a few weeks then think hard. Your relationship with the housekeeper of your main country seat is probably your most important one after your marriage.”

  Georgie nodded. “I’ll remember that. I know I have a lot to learn and I can see the sense in what you say.”

  “Your sense of fair play does you credit. Now I warned the servants to be prepared for a wedding tomorrow. The best servants will cope with anything. However, it’s always better if you can give them some warning of possible future events.”

  Georgie barely heard the last of Eliza’s words as the room circled around her at the thought of her wedding the following day. She squared her shoulders and forced herself to concentrate. Eliza knew what she was about and Georgie learnt a lot in the next hour. Eliza was bred to run a house of this size. Would she ever be able to manage to the same standard? Eventually Eliza declared that they could do no more and it was time to prepare for dinner.

  “That gown looks lovely on you, much better than it did on me. You could wear that for dinner.”

  Georgie nodded. “Your maid persuaded me to put it on.”

  Eliza laughed out loud. “Betty is a treasure. You will need a maid now yourself.”

  “I think I will ask Max if we can take on Martha as my maid.”

  “That’s a good idea. Martha has been working hard to learn everything she can from Betty. Let me give you one more piece of advice. When it comes to household matters you are in charge. Don’t ask Max, tell him.”

  ***

  Max helped himself to brandy. He sat in the chair next to Nat and crossed his legs. Georgie had looked stunning in the green dress.

  “The Archbishop saw me himself. He remembered Georgie and her family. I had to fudge things a bit by implying Eliza knew the family better than she did and not correcting him when he assumed that was how I had met Georgie.” He swallowed a large mouthful of brandy.

  “In the circumstances you did the right thing. I think you’re right about Selina. Even if it is too late to try and stop the wedding, I wouldn’t put it past her to cause trouble out of spite.” Nat laughed. “She’s never forgiven you for being born. Perhaps you ought to consider hiring bodyguards.”

  “I don’t think she would go to those the sort of lengths, but all the same I might just do that.” Max thought for a minute. “A lot of people work at the archbishop’s office. I’m sure several recognised me. I’ll have some grooms posted on the route to church. I don’t think Selina is that unhinged but I’m sure she’s had people spying on me before now.”

  Nat nodded. “As a former soldier I think that’s wise. I’ve got pistols with me and I’m the obvious choice to escort Georgie to church.”

  “Thank you, Nat. I don’t suppose you’ve brought Bright with you?”

  Nat grimaced. “It never occurred to me he might be needed. I gave him some time off to visit his daughter.
Both coachmen and the two grooms I brought with me were trained in security by him though. I’ll have them all armed to be safe.”

  “Good. Besides armed grooms watching the route I’ll have Barton discreetly warn the footmen who will be in church to keep watch.” Max shook his head. “I can’t believe it will all be needed but it’s best to be safe.”

  The bell rang for dinner. Max hung back and hovered in the hall waiting for another glimpse of Georgie walking down the stairs. She was wearing the same green gown that had sent his pulses racing before. Now she had her hair piled high on top of her head. Why hadn’t he noticed before what magnificent hair she had? He’d got himself a better bargain than he knew when he offered his name to protect the reputation of an exhausted waif.

  He walked forward and offered his arm. She seemed to jump at his touch. He studied her face. Huge grey eyes lifted to his. Was she nervous about the wedding night? He must make time to talk to her tonight.

  “You look quite delightful, Georgie.”

  The smile she gave him seemed rather uncertain. She was definitely nervous but then perhaps brides were supposed to be nervous on the evening before their wedding.

  Eliza kept up a steady flow of cheerful conversation during the meal. Georgie visibly relaxed. She seemed to be getting on well with Eliza now which was a big relief. Eventually the meal was over and the ladies left the men to their port. Max suggested to Nat that they re-join the ladies after just one. In the sitting room he drew Georgie away from the other two.

  “Is there anything you want to talk about before tomorrow? I know you’re not getting the wedding that most young women dream of but I promise I will make it up to you afterwards.” He took one of her hands in both of his.

  She seemed to tremble. He gave her what he hoped was a reassuring smile.

  He lowered his voice. “Are you worried about the wedding night? I promise I won’t rush you.”

  Her cheeks adopted an adorable shade of pink. “Do you know Max, I hadn’t thought about that? I’ve watched Eliza orchestrate an impromptu wedding feast. I’ve never had any training in running a big household. I hope I don’t let you down.”

  A chuckle escaped him. How his friends would laugh to hear she was more worried about running the house than her wedding night.

  “There is no need to worry about the house. You have Mrs Powell to help with that sort of thing.”

  She looked dubious.

  “What is it?”

  “That’s my problem; I don’t think Mrs Powell likes me.”

  “Why doesn’t she like you? She’s paid to like you.” He laughed. “I don’t think she likes me very much.”

  Georgie hung her head. “Of course, Max. I’m not making a good start, am I? I will try and do better.”

  Oh dear, he had made a mull of that. How to reassure her?

  “I’m sorry, Georgie. I didn’t mean to sound so sharp. I’m sure you will learn how to go on very quickly.”

  She looked as if she was about to say more but Eliza came across to them.

  “I don’t want to sound too motherly but it’s going to be an exhausting day tomorrow. Perhaps you ought to retire early, Georgie?”

  Max turned and walked across to the fire to hide his annoyance. It was going to be difficult to have much conversation with Georgie until they were on their own. He heard her agree with Eliza. They excused themselves and went out together. Max felt a stab of embarrassment. Was Eliza going to check if his bride was aware of what would be expected of her on their wedding night? He ran a finger around the inside of his neck cloth. It felt rather too tight. Perhaps he should have warned Georgie about his reputation as a rake but it was too late now.

  Chapter Eight

  Georgie sat patiently as Martha dressed her hair. The cream gown was beautiful. It was the sort of gown she had dreamed of owning in what seemed another life. She could barely remember her mother but she longed for her aunt, the generous aunt who had offered her a season in London. Perhaps she should have accepted but it hadn’t seemed fair when Aunt Anne’s means were modest. If she had found a husband, then at least her aunt would have been at her wedding.

  At last Martha had finished. There was a knock at the door and Betty came in. She handed Georgie a small wooden jewellery box.

  “The Marquess sent this for you, Miss Sherborne. It’s a wedding present and he thought you might like to wear it for the ceremony.”

  Georgie opened the box and gave a gasp of delight. Nestled in amongst the deep red silk lining was a beautiful string of pearls. Martha took them off her almost reverently.

  “These will be perfect with your dress, Miss.” She fastened the pearls around Georgie’s neck.

  Georgie studied her reflection in the looking glass. Even a few days of being well fed had improved her figure and given her roses in her cheeks. She felt as ready as she would ever be to face the future. It was too late now to worry if she had made a mistake. Max was a maiden’s dream. He was certainly hers but she knew little of his character. Yet something had made her accept his offer. She could only hope her instinct had been correct.

  Eliza scratched at the door and came in. “Max has already gone to the church. Nat will escort you and give you away if you are happy with that.”

  Georgie took hold of Eliza’s hands. “Thank you so much, both of you. You’ve been so kind.”

  In response Eliza gave her a quick hug. “It’s been nothing and don’t forget we will always be here if you need help.”

  “Thank you. There is one thing. Mrs Armstrong. How will I explain the wedding to her?”

  “Don’t worry about that. I’ll think of something to say. It’s time for me to be off now. Betty will take you down to Nat when you’re ready.”

  Martha put the finishing touches to her hair. “You’re ready now, my lady. I’ll go and fetch Betty.”

  Georgie felt surprisingly calm as she waited. The scent of the lavender Martha had sprinkled in her bath water enveloped her in a soothing cloud. Betty knocked at the door and led her downstairs. Lord Overton smiled at her as she placed her hand on his arm. He led her outside and handed her into a large, old fashioned landau.

  “This carriage has been used to take all the Lovell brides to church. I believe it was made for Max’s mother.”

  Georgie settled into the comfortable, light green squabs. Her composure nearly deserted her when they reached the church. It seemed as if all the people from Hargreaves village had come out for the wedding. There were even some from Benfort. She gave them the brightest smile she could muster. She would have to get used to being the centre of attention as a marchioness. A stab of fear hit her. If so many people knew could Cousin Mary have found out? Her eyes darted around the crowd.

  There was no sign of the Huttons or their scary lawyer friend. Some of the Benfort folk were waving at her. She relaxed and waved back. They must have come with the carrier; his cart was tucked behind the church. Their presence was a real comfort even though it made her think of her aunt again. Lord Overton helped her to alight. She smiled her thanks and the crowd cheered as they walked through the gate to the church. Georgie froze at the sounds of a scuffle outside the church. Lord Overton bundled her back into the coach. The driver pulled out a pistol and the groom on the box jumped down and joined her inside the coach, also carrying a pistol.

  “Get down, Miss Sherborne. Keep your head below the window.”

  After what seemed an age, Lord Overton returned. “You can come out now, Georgie. False alarm. Just a scuffle between a couple of villagers.” He smiled at her. Forgive me for overreacting. My ten years in the army have left me seeing danger lurking in every shadow.”

  He helped her out and they made their way back to the church. Georgie couldn’t help noticing that the armed groom followed them rather than stay with the coachman. Had she been traced by Cousin Mary? Most of the people inside were servants from Hargreaves Hall. She couldn’t see all the pews but there was no sign of the Huttons. She let out a breath as her ga
ze alighted on Eliza, near the front with her two children, and Mr and Mrs Armstrong in the pew behind. Mrs Armstrong gave her a lovely smile as she walked up the aisle. Whatever Eliza had said to her must have worked.

  They were nearing the altar and Georgie broke into a smile when she saw Max. He was exquisitely turned out in a tightly cut navy jacket and snowy cravat. He smiled back and she faltered momentarily. Lord Overton patted the hand that rested on his arm and they took their places. It was unlikely that the Huttons, or their lawyer, were there, after the scuffle outside Max would have had any strangers removed to be safe. She still couldn’t help but strain her ears listening for any disturbance. She made the right responses in the right places until the Vicar of Hargreaves pronounced them man and wife. She felt giddy with relief.

  Max leaned over and placed a kiss on her cheek. The Overtons were smiling at them and so were the Armstrongs. A tremor went through her at the enormity of the step she had taken. She managed to smile at Max. She had always loved the marriage vows. Now she had made them she must try and make this strange marriage work. She walked back down the aisle on his arm. How seriously would Max take his vows?

  Max nodded to a group of footmen standing near the church door with Jepson and Barton. Two footmen rushed to open it. It was then that Georgie noticed the row of hampers lined up and the large money bag carried by Barton. They went outside to cheers and she looked back to see Barton walking amongst the assembled crowd distributing largesse. She glanced up at Max who grinned down at her.

  “I left a message with Mr Wright, our vicar, yesterday that anyone attending the wedding would receive a Christmas present.”

  Mr Wright walked behind them to the church door. Max thanked him and waited for him to talk to Georgie.