The Viscount's Bride (The Radcliffe Family Book 2) Read online

  The Viscount’s Bride

  The Radcliffe Family, Series

  By Lindsay Downs

  Published by TouchPoint Romance

  This is a work of fiction. Names, places, characters, and events are fictitious in every regard. Any similarities to actual events and persons, living or dead, are purely coincidental. Any trademarks, service marks, product names, or named features are assumed to be the property of their respective owners, and are used only for reference. There is no implied endorsement if any of these terms are used. Except for review purposes, the reproduction of this book in whole or part, electronically or mechanically, constitutes a copyright violation.

  THE VISCOUNT’S BRIDE

  Copyright © 2016 LINDSAY DOWNS

  Cover Art Designed by Heidi Sieverding

  To the brave women and men of the US Armed Forces

  Chapter One

  Fisting his hands, not in anger but frustration, Matthew leaned over the table and studied the two rough draft drawings of gazebos. Each he liked but still wasn’t satisfied. And that was his problem. Considering his current client, he knew everything had to be perfect, and neither of these met his, nor would they meet the duke’s, expectations.

  Turning his attention back to the map of the estate, he examined it, for at least the tenth time in the week since he’d arrived at Radcliffe Hall in Cornwall. Then he saw it. The resolution to his dilemma.

  “Why hadn’t I noticed it before? Both the duke and duchess love to dip a fly in a river. This would be the perfect place. It is secluded, giving the guest privacy while being fairly easy to get to. Granted, they’d have to ride there, but the results could be worth it,” he said out loud, not realizing someone was listening.

  “Excuse me, m’ lord, did you say something?”

  “Ah, no. Why?”

  “Nothing, m’ lord. These posts have arrived for you.”

  “Thank you. Put them on the desk, and I’ll deal with them when I return,” Matthew directed the butler.

  “As you wish, m’ lord. I believe one is from the Countess of Ashburn. If I were to hazard, I’d say it’s an invitation of some sort,” Connor said.

  In the week since arriving at Radcliffe Hall, a small untitled holding belonging to the Duke and Duchess of Kettering, Matthew had been able to avoid social engagements. On the few rare occasions a request came, mostly from the local minister and a few barons, he’d responded he wasn’t available, never giving the exact reason. However, with one from the countess, wife to the local senior peer, he wondered if he should make his excuses, citing the need to finish this consignment and return to London.

  No, he easily decided, he’d send his regrets but not until investigating the stream for a possible site for the gazebo. Then upon returning, relaxed he would firmly but politely refuse the invitation.

  “As I said, they can wait until later.”

  “Yes, m’ lord.”

  With a final glance at the map, he marched from the office and made his way to the stable.

  Stepping in, he was met by the stable master.

  “King, I need a sturdy mount as I wish to ride to the river.”

  “Certainly, m’ lord. I believe I have just the horse for you. In speaking with your tiger I’ve learned you are skilled in the saddle and fearless so Devil should suit.”

  Devil. That’s an interesting name. Does he behave as his name implies? “He sounds perfect as I always love a challenge.”

  “Worry not, m’ lord. He was given the name as he’s black as the night but with an excellent disposition. If the duchess were here and rode astride, I’d have no worries letting her take him. He is solid and fears nothing nor no one.”

  “King, then he sounds perfect. Which is his stall so I may saddle him myself?”

  “Are you sure, m’ lord?”

  “Yes, as it will give us a chance to know each other.”

  “If you’ll follow me, m’ lord.”

  Matthew was glad the man didn’t continue to press the issue as he followed King down the main aisle to the horse’s stall. Looking in, he couldn’t believe what he saw. A huge beast, pure black lying down, apparently sleeping with a baby goat curled up with him.

  “It seems, m’ lord, when Devil is here the only way to keep him from kicking the stall down is to have the goat with him. However, take him out for a ride and he’s just as gentle as you see him now.”

  So as not to startle Devil, Matthew rapped his knuckles on the stall door then waited for the beast to lever himself up and shook his head as if to throw the last vestiges of sleep away. “Devil, would you like to get out of here and explore the sights?” He smiled when the horse, seemingly understanding his words, bobbed his head. “Good.”

  A short while later Matthew swung onto the saddle, nodded to King, found the trail he needed, and at a walk, guided Devil onto the track.

  Normally, as the path was wide and well-tended, Matthew would have galloped or at least cantered along it. However, as this trip was more one of hunting down the best place for the structure, he didn’t go faster than a trot. As he rode along the tall, stately oaks caught his attention. He could easily tell they could be used for ship building and repairs. With England fighting the French, the lumber would be greatly needed. And selling the wood to the navy would not only increase the value of the land but add to the ducal coffers.

  When a small field came into view, he rode partway across then stopped and glanced around.

  This might work for a small cottage for visitors or a hunting lodge if Simon was of a mind.

  Thinking about his uncle, the duke, spurred Matthew to continue along the track to the river. He knew the gazebo was the more important building on his agenda.

  Keeping Devil to a walk, Matthew looked around and was amazed at the number of stags and other forest creatures he saw. Looking around, he could feel himself missing his own estate. It was a short day’s ride to his parents’, Earl and Countess of Stratham, estate but far enough away where he could be himself.

  With no commissions awaiting him, or so he hoped not having reviewed the letters Connor had brought, Matthew vowed to returned to his estate. There, he’d hide away until ordered, by the countess, to return to London in search of a bride.

  His attention was diverted from thinking about home on hearing voices in the distance. What they were saying he didn’t know, not that it mattered as they were on ducal land without permission. Tapping his heels against Devil’s side, he sent the beast into a canter, closing the gap between him and the speakers. He’d been able to determine that both were women so firm politeness was called for.

  As he got closer he slowed, not wishing to frighten them, and Matthew heard one say, “Do you believe he will accept your invitation to dine with us this eve?”

  He cursed silently, suspecting the speaker was referring to him. Slowing his horse to a walk, Matthew spied them. Even from behind he could tell they were ladies as their dresses were of fine quality. Even more interesting was that they both had fishing poles in their hands and were casting flies out upon the river.

  “I don’t know, daughter. From what I understand in the letter from Serena, Viscount Rathbourne is here under the direction of the Duke of Kettering to design a gazebo.”

  Matthew was aware he was in trouble if this lady and his mother knew each other. He was about to announce his presence when—

  “Then I’m sure we won’t as, from what I understand the duke can be a harsh task master. At least that’s the rumors I heard in the village.”

  Matthew quickly decided the lady to his right was the daughter while the other the mother. This was going t
o be a very interesting meeting. Bringing Devil to a stop, he smiled to himself and took in a breath.

  “Ladies, my uncle is a fair gentleman unless you cross him or disobey an order while under his command in the Guards.”

  Their reaction was exactly what he’d expected. They dropped their poles and spun about. He’d been correct in his assumption. The lady on his right was the daughter, and never before had he seen such a beautiful lady. Not even the duchess could hold a candle to her.

  “Ah, so the illusive viscount is for real. I’m Lady Elsie, Countess of Ashburn, and this is my daughter, Lady Kathleen.”

  “M’ ladies, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I do hope you enjoy fishing on Radcliffe Hall property,” he politely informed them, all the while trying not to be firm in tone.

  “Yes, m’ lord, we are as where the river crosses our estate is all rapids, thusly dangerous to get near,” Kathleen announced.

  The sound of her voice sent warmth racing through him like no other lady had ever done. But it wasn’t just hearing her speak but the way the sun glinted off her sandy brown hair turning it cinnamon in color which had him spellbound. Then there was her heart-shaped face, soft full lips, and petite nose that helped in entrancing him.

  “Then, by all means continue,” he said giving them a bow.

  “Thank you, m’ lord, for we shall in the hopes of catching several more trout for this evening’s meal, to which I hope you will be joining us?” Elsie said.

  “It will be my pleasure to sup with you and enjoy the duke’s fish, under one condition,” he replied with a smile.

  “And what might that be, m’ lord?” Kathleen uttered.

  “Please call me Matthew when no staff is present. Even at Radcliffe Hall I take care of my meals, except breakfast, as I never could cook an egg to satisfaction. I also don’t travel with a valet, only a tiger to handle my horses.”

  “How refreshing. A gentleman of independent needs. What do the earl and countess think of that? Also, we won’t make you prepare your dinner this eve,” Kathleen teased.

  “I’m grateful I won’t have to and as for my parents, they gave up trying a long time ago to have me accept assistance. Even at my estate I see to my needs,” he stated.

  “Except breakfast,” Kathleen uttered, earning a smile from him.

  “And you have our permission to use our Christian names with the same codicil. Matthew, what brings you out here? Mayhap you planned to do some fishing as well,” Elsie inquired.

  “No, even though I do enjoy dipping a line in the water on occasion. The duke and duchess enjoy fishing so I came out to see if there was a suitable spot for a gazebo,” he replied, then looked around at the land along the river.

  “Would this area be appropriate?” Kathleen waved her hand around where they stood.

  “Yes, it might do. However, in the next day or so I’ll have to return. Then with my sketch pad and pencil so I may draw up a rough picture of how it would look. You see, one of my talents is to blend the structure, whatever it is, in with the natural landscape. This is so it doesn’t take away from the beauty of the area.”

  “I remember hearing of you several years ago when last in London before I and the earl returned here with Kathleen,” Elsie declared.

  He wanted to ask why Kathleen had returned here and not spent time during the season hunting down a husband. A beauty such as she must have had many suitors, all in search of her hand. This he’d have to find out, but not at the present time.

  “Sir, when you come back here, would you mind if I joined you?” Kathleen asked.

  “I’m sorry, but that would be highly inappropriate without a chaperone. Now though, I do need to return to the manor as there are several letters, of which one was from you, countess, which need replies.”

  “As for me, a chaperone isn’t necessary, and this eve I will explain why,” Kathleen retorted.

  “In regards to my invitation, that won’t be necessary. We will be dining at seven of the clock and fear not, you are our only guest,” Elsie told him.

  “Thank you, m’ lady. I shall see you then,” Matthew declared, and then turned Devil after seeing the ladies return to their fishing.

  On the ride back he wondered why Elsie hadn’t protested Kathleen joining him and what the reason was. No matter what he learned later, he still wasn’t about to allow her to accompany him. Riding into the stableyard, he was met by King.

  “Did you enjoy your ride, m’ lord?”

  “Yes, and you were right about Devil. He is a pleasure and has very comfortable gaits. I will be needing the carriage this eve. Please have it in the courtyard at half six. I’ll be dining with the Earl and Countess of Ashburn and their daughter Lady Kathleen.”

  “Certainly, m’ lord.”

  Matthew found the slight smirk from King interesting, but refrained from asking about it. After taking care of Devil, Matthew made his way to the manor, this time entering through the kitchen. There he informed Cook and the butler he wouldn’t be under foot. Where he was going the man already knew from the posts of earlier.

  “Yes, m’ lord. I’ll make sure your bath water will be ready at half five,” Connor said.

  With that taken care of, he headed for the office to deal with the annoying letters. Strolling in, he went directly to the desk, sat, then unfolded the first. It was from his mother. He groaned.

  Son,

  I hope this post finds you well.

  I’m sure during your stay in Cornwall you will meet up with Lady Elsie. Tell her I send my love. She’s an old, dear friend whom I haven’t seen in several years. As to why, it seems her daughter, Lady Kathleen had several unfortunate years within the ton. For whatever reason, just when the earl and countess thought a gentleman would offer for her the gentleman stepped away.

  So upset did Lady Kathleen become she begged her parents to allow her to return to their estate, near where you are now.

  Later, in talking with several mutual friends, I learned Lady Kathleen seemed to threaten the gentlemen by her intellect. Don’t get me wrong, she’s not a bluestocking but at her own urgings extended her education past what a normal young lady would have.

  I’m only telling you this so you will be forewarned should the two of you meet.

  Don’t be scared off by her, but rather treat Lady Kathleen as an equal.

  Your loving mother

  Matthew leaned back in the chair, steepling his fingers, then smiled. Now it made sense. Her request to join him next time when he went to the river without a chaperone. She considered herself to be on the shelf and thusly not in need of one. This also explained why her mother hadn’t stepped in and said something. He would definitely have to reconsider his decision of earlier. Then again, considering how his body had reacted on seeing her, it might be for the best she have someone with her.

  As this post didn’t require a reply, he set it aside and picked up the next. Glancing at the direction he groaned.

  “What does Simon wish now? I hope he’s not expecting a progress report as I’ve little to tell him,” Matthew mumbled.

  Opening the post, he spread it out on the desk and started reading.

  Matthew,

  I’ve a request for you. Actually, it’s not necessarily from me but my wife. We recently returned from visiting with her mother, and Emma is greatly distressed. It would seem the estate where Lady Carringham has taken up residence is without a folly. My dear wife is requesting you design one, and as she put it “at your earliest convenience”.

  Upon completing this commission would you be willing to undertake another?

  Simon

  The Duke of Kettering

  This definitely put him in a bind. Earlier, he had promised himself to take time and spend it at his estate. Now, the duke, his uncle, was asking, or was it an order, for him to take on another project. Matthew knew of the buildings which were his specialty the folly was the most difficult to design and partially hide. The last one he’d done had taken six mon
ths from start to finish.

  Taking up a sheet of foolscap, Matthew selected a quill and started to compose his response.

  Your Grace,

  As much as I’d like to take on this request from you and the duchess, I must decline.

  I haven’t stopped designing and hunting down the perfect place to put the building for the past nine months.

  Between that and having my parents continue to insist I marry, I can’t remember what my own estate looks like. All I get are reports everything is fine. I’d like to see for myself.

  Now, once again, mother is insisting I return to London for the upcoming season. If events work out for the best, please inform the duchess I will take on the commission in the next spring.

  Sincerely,

  Matthew

  Pleased, but not entirely, with his response, Matthew folded, sealed, then addressed it. Ringing for Connor, he handed the letter over.

  “Make sure it goes out in the morning by post coach.”

  “As you wish, m’ lord, but wouldn’t a rider be quicker as I see it’s being sent to the duke?”

  “And that’s exactly why I want it to take the longest time possible to reach him. I’m hoping to have this assignment done by the end of next week then return to my home. There I’ll finish the report and give him my recommendations.”

  “As you wish, m’ lord.”

  With a nod, Matthew dismissed the man then turned his attention to the next. This was from his man of business telling him of an increase in funds from his estate. This brought a smile to him. Finally, the last was the invitation from the countess. Out of curiosity he opened and read it.

  Viscount Rathbourne

  The earl and I request the pleasure of your company at dinner this eve.

  I can assure you the gathering will only include us and our daughter, Lady Kathleen.

  Regrettably our younger daughter, Lady Valerie won’t be joining us as she’s in London for the season.

  Elsie

  Countess of Ashburn

  This little fact, that they had another young lady, was very interesting. As the girl’s name was currently popular Matthew hoped it wasn’t the same one his younger, by a year, brother was interested in.