Married By Christmas (Rogues and Rakehells Mystery Book 3) Read online

  Glancing over to Amelia, as he’d not heard anything from her save the panicked noise earlier, he could see she was beginning to relax and hoped it would last through the evening and the ball.

  Nash was happy when the dinner bell sounded thus bringing the conversation to an abrupt ending.

  “If I might suggest we refrain from any further discussions on the subject except when in the privacy of either palace,” Nash declared, receiving nods of agreement from all parties.

  Standing, he offered Amelia his hand which she accepted, and he was happy when she intertwined her fingers with his. They followed both mothers and the duke to the dining room.

  He wondered which seat was hers as he glanced around the table. Nash waited until the other ladies were seated then spied two places set side by side. Guiding Amelia over, he held her chair then took his on her right.

  As the dinner progressed, over several courses of meats, fish, and fowl along with vegetables, boiled turnips, and roasted potatoes, the conversation was kept light.

  It intrigued him was when his mother turned to hers. “Your Grace, would you, His Grace, and Lady Amelia care to dine with the duke, myself, and Lord Nash tomorrow. If I’m not mistaken, we’re both attending the same ball.”

  Nash wondered if his mother was setting events in motion for him to propose. As she knew the duke and the jewelry would be at their palace, it would only make sense. His only question was how to make sure Amelia along with her parents arrived safely.

  “It would be our pleasure, and Lord Nash I’ll make sure His Grace dispatches extra guards, unless you’ve a better suggestion?” the duchess told them.

  “Thank you for the extra care. Your Grace, if you don’t mind may I send several grooms over to escort your town carriage,” Nash asked.

  “Not at all. How will I know they are your men and not someone Smedley sent?” the duke queried.

  Now he had to find a way for them to know then he realized he had the perfect answer.

  “The young man in the box with my coachman this afternoon is also with us this evening. I’ll make sure he’s one of the grooms.”

  From the smiles he got from the duke and duchess he knew he’d made the correct decision in using Justin. Could this also be why Ricky had sent the young man along, both earlier and tonight? He’d need to find out but not until the morning. Nash would have to make sure Justin accompanied him and Amelia when he took her shopping. Just that thought made him want to moan, but he thought better of it.

  Once dinner was over Nash, with Amelia beside him, strolled to the front door. After assisting with her winter cape he slipped into his greatcoat while the others did the same. As he guided her out to the courtyard, he saw the duke’s carriage roll up behind Nash’s.

  “Your Grace, there should be enough room for all of us in mine,” Nash declared.

  “I thought this way, if Smedley might be keeping a watch over our house and sees two leave, he wouldn’t know which our daughter is in,” the duke declared.

  “Why didn’t I think of that? It will be a perfect ruse. My only question then, is in which will she travel?”

  “With us, son, and with the shades drawn. That will add an extra level of safety for her, and I’ll be along as chaperone,” his mother informed him.

  With a nod, he accepted her decision, but the return trip to here he’d change things up a bit. That he’d worry about later. First he wanted to get Amelia out of the chilly night air and to the ball.

  Once everyone was in their appropriate carriage and windows were covered, with his carriage leading, they headed off for the ball where he’d finally partner with Amelia. Fortunately, Matt would be there along with several other friends, so he hoped she’d be completely safe.

  As the carriages rolled up to the Stonington townhouse Nash waited for the footman to open the door then climbed out. Glancing about the crowd, he didn’t see Smedley, allowing him to breathe a sigh of relief.

  From what he’d learned in the duchess’ parlor there was no possibility Smedley would be in attendance. From what he’d seen of the man when they were at the park, Nash suspected he couldn’t nor wouldn’t try climbing a wall.

  With his mother on one arm and Amelia on the other, he escorted them up the granite steps and into the Stonington townhouse. There, the ladies were relieved of their capes by maids and a footman took his and the dukes’ coats.

  Slowly, the line of guests made its way forward until he and Amelia were next. Suddenly he felt a hint of the nervousness from earlier. A tap on his arm caught his attention.

  “Don’t worry, everything will be fine,” Amelia whispered.

  “Not until I’m swirling you in my arms around the dance floor in a waltz.”

  They took a step forward and were announced which prevented her from answering, but the gentle squeeze on his arm told him she was in agreement.

  Chapter Seven

  From the doorway to the family dining room Nash saw not one, but two places set for breakfast. That told him his mother would be joining him, which was the rarest of occurrences as she normally would break her fast in her suite. He then saw a broadsheet set at his place which annoyed him. If there was one standing order from not only him but the duke those scandal sheets were never to be allowed in the room.

  Looking over to the butler, who had just entered carrying a pot of coffee, he glared at the man. If it was within his powers before he finished eating, Lucas would be gone without references. A low grumble from Nash’s stomach told him eating was more important at the moment. He marched over to the sideboy. There he started piling beef, venison, several eggs and toast onto a plate. He took it over to the table, swept the rag aside, and sat down.

  “Excuse me, m’ lord, but you might find the center story on the first page highly interesting,” Lucas stated.

  Glaring up at the man, Nash drew it over and stared at the headline-Is he at it again? Curious at what that meant, he started to read the lies, or so he thought.

  After almost a year of behaving, it would seem Nash, Marquis of Renfield, is up to his old games again. What makes this even more interesting is that it was under the eyes of The Duchess of Fenwick and The Duchess of Appleton.

  He was seen yesterday afternoon escorting a certain Lady A. around Hyde Park. If that’s not bad enough, this reporter witnessed first-hand, Lord Nash danced not twice but four times with this same lady. And they weren’t different but all waltzes at the Stonington ball last evening.

  Rumor has it there might actually be something between Lord Nash and this mysterious Lady A. And I’m not talking about a compromising situation, even though their behavior last eve might be considered inappropriate.

  Keep watching my posts as I’ll bring you further information as I hunt it down.

  “Of course, you stupid idiot, there’s something between us. I’m in love with Amelia and will be asking her to marry me tonight,” he screamed.

  “But, can you say those words to her?” his mother announced from the doorway.

  Stunned at her sudden arrival, he pushed back his chair and stood as she glided into the room.

  Deep down in the bottom of his heart he knew he could. The only question he had and kept to himself, was could he actually say the words, “I love you,” to her? And when he did would she believe him if he didn’t announce it to the world. Nash knew he had a great affection for her and her for him.

  “Yes, I can, Your Grace. Now please have a seat while I get you a plate,” he requested.

  When she did, he stepped over to the sidebar and started selecting delicate morsels from the platters to her plate. Once satisfied, he brought it over and placed it in front of her. Stepping back, he let Lucas set a silver tea pot on her right side just above the china tea cup.

  “M’ lord, if I may make an observation? When serving, always do it from the left and remove the plate from the right.”

  Nash resisted the urge to roll his eyes at being corrected and kept his mouth shut, just nodded then ret
ook his seat.

  As they ate Nash kept glancing toward his mother wondering why she was looking at him. He then remembered he wasn’t wearing a cravat or jacket. Unsure if an explanation was in order, he decided not to say anything until she did. For the morning he had chosen not to completely dress since he would be spending time in the office. Come luncheon he would be properly attired for his afternoon torment at Amelia’s dressmaker.

  With their first meal of the day finished Nash, being the dutiful son, escorted his mother to her parlor. He waited until she was comfortable on her favorite settee before starting to head to the office only to be stopped by her.

  “Helena and I discussed it last eve, while you were making a spectacle of yourself while waltzing with Amelia. I’ll be her chaperone this afternoon since I am in need of a new gown.”

  Hearing she needed another one, Nash had an unusual idea.

  “Mother, if I might suggest why not get it in a holiday color. Tonight, before dinner, when I ask for Amelia’s hand, I’ll also suggest we marry at my estate. To do that, we’ll need to depart within the next few days so the banns may be read.”

  “That would be wonderful, but why so specific with the gown’s color? You haven’t explained the reason?”

  “Simply put, with the combining of the two dukedoms, why not invite a few select friends to join us at the estate. It wouldn’t be in the true sense of the words a house party but a friendly get together before the onslaught of invited guests. Not to mention, once word gets out Smedley might follow and try for Amelia. At least in the country we will be able to control the comings and goings of unknown people.”

  “Nash, that’s a wonderful suggestion, and it will also give Amelia the opportunity to spend more time with your staff, not to mention the tenants.”

  “That was my thinking, as well.”

  What he didn’t mention, was that his father was getting on in years, and he wanted Amelia to be ready to step into the shoes of the duchess when the time came.

  “Then, tomorrow after it becomes official, I’ll speak with Helena about your suggestion. Of course, you’ll get to explain it to Amelia.”

  He knew that wouldn’t be a problem as she’d enjoyed the stay, albeit short, when she and his mother had arrived only a few days ago. But first, he needed to make sure the ducal desk was cleared of business so his father, in ill health but not willing to admit it, could rest before the evening’s events.

  With a bow, Nash excused himself and went to the office where a large stack of invitations awaited his attention. Instantly, he decided to ignore them since he’d leave the ones worth attending up to Amelia. Instead, what he needed to do was come up with a list of select guests to invite to the estate. For the most part that would be easy as he’d spoken with two friends last night at the ball.

  On top of the list would be Lord Matthew, which meant Lady Jessica and her parents would be invited as well. Next, he knew Lord Anthony, Tony to his friends, along with his bride Lady Chelsea would receive a request also. Then there was Rainer along with Bianca and their new born.

  With those gentlemen, he knew his Amelia would be well protected. The only foreseeable problem was what the ladies would tell her about him. He could only hope for the best as each had a mind of their own which their husbands appreciated and encouraged. As for who else to invite, that he’d leave to the duchesses and Amelia.

  Turning his attention to estate business, he didn’t realize the morning had passed so quickly until he was distracted by a knock.

  “Yes?”

  “M’ lord, I’m sorry for this interruption. You wanted me to make sure you were properly attired with a jacket and cravat for the afternoon,” Ryan said.

  “Thank you. I’ll be along shortly. For tonight put out my black jacket, the one with the deep blue embroidery, and matching trousers.” He was about to continue when he saw Lucas step into the doorway, a large brown wrapped package in his hands. Nash knew exactly what the man was carrying, the ring and tiara cleaned and stones reset where needed.

  “Ryan, for the vest, I’ll wear the cream with gold woven into it,” Nash ordered.

  “Yes, m’ lord.”

  He waited for his valet to depart then turned his attention to Lucas and took the packet. Setting it on the corner of the desk, he picked up a folded piece of foolscap and handed it to the man.

  “Take this to the stable, and give it to Ricky. It’s instructions for this afternoon and evening.”

  “Yes, m’ lord I’ll see to it right away as luncheon will be served shortly.”

  With a nod, Nash dismissed him, picked up the parcel, and then marched down to his mother’s parlor. After receiving a head bob he stepped in.

  “It’s arrived and none too soon, either. I was hoping it would before we left to take Amelia to the dressmaker’s. As the jeweler’s in on the same street I worried he’d see the carriage and deliver it with her seeing it.”

  “Yes, I’m pleased also. Now, you do plan on being properly attired for the excursion?”

  He gave his mother a smile. Removing the wrapping he then secured the light blue velvet box in his mother’s desk but instead of returning the key to her he pocketed it.

  “I’m on my way to finish dressing then I’ll stop by to escort you to luncheon. I’ve also ordered up the carriage for half one with three grooms along with the normal two footmen.”

  He accepted her nod that she agreed with him, bowed, and made his way to his suite. Entering he was met by Ryan and saw the fawn-brown jacket carefully laid out on the bed. Nash realized he’d not told the valet which to make ready but was pleased with the man’s choice.

  After washing up he took a seat so Ryan wouldn’t strain when tying the cravat then stood and was helped into the jacket.

  “The Duke and Duchess of Appleton, along with Lady Amelia, are expected at seven with dinner shortly afterwards. I’ll want to be bathed and dressed by half six so make sure everything is ready,” he ordered.

  “It will be, m’ lord.”

  Knowing the man had always been true to his word, Nash clapped him on the shoulder and grinned. From the smile he got back, Nash wondered if Ryan, not to mention the other senior staff knew what would occur this evening. Deciding not to say a word, lest he put a curse on the impending event, he strolled from the room and down to meet the duchess.

  Making his way down the hall, he heard his mother conversing with Mrs. Hayes. He wondered about what as the menu, to the best of his knowledge, had already been settled. It disturbed him that they stopped talking when he entered.

  Accepting a curtsey from the housekeeper with a nod, he peered to his mother, who had a mischievous look in her eyes. Now he was even more worried, but when she stood and glided up to him he decided not to pursue it.

  With her hand resting on his arm he escorted her to the dining room where they enjoyed a pleasant luncheon. After which he followed her to the front of the palace where they were met by her maid and Ryan. Taking the cape from the maid he settled it over his mother’s shoulders but shook his head at the offer of his coat.

  At the last moment, before stepping out into the sunlight, he changed his mind. Instead of putting it on, Nash draped it over his free arm. His action caused the duchess to give him a quizzical look.

  “I thought, if there’s time after the dressmaker’s we might take a drive around the park.”

  What he left out was that after the announcement in the broadsheets that will become a near impossibility. At least for the next few days until everything returns to normal.

  “That’s an excellent suggestion. Don’t forget we’re having tea with the duke and duchess, and they are all coming for dinner. Afterwards we have the ball to attend.”

  Nash knew she was correct but never wanting to be far from her for any great length of time, such as last eve until now, he wished to spend every moment with his Amelia. With a nod, he guided his mother down the steps and to the waiting carriage.

  Much to his pleasure, Justi
n was this time mounted with two other grooms Nash knew very well as loyal, trustworthy, and fierce fighters if need be. In the box was his coachman and assistant, and at the rear one burly footman while the second stood at the opened carriage door.

  Handing his mother in, he followed. Once settled Nash rapped on the carriage’s roof, directing the driver to start out for the Appleton palace and an interesting, but most likely boring afternoon.

  Chapter Eight

  With a final glance in the mirror Nash stepped over to the table near the fireplace and picked up the light-blue velvet box. For the fifth time since returning home from escorting Amelia and, as it turned out, both mothers to the dressmaker he opened it and gazed at its occupants. With a satisfying sigh Nash closed it as a knock interrupted his thoughts of what would be happening in less than an hour.

  Turning on his heel, he knew it had to be his valet returning from requesting an audience with the duke, his father.

  “Come.”

  “M’ lord, His Grace, is awaiting you in his office,” Ryan told him.

  Nash gave the man a nod then, with the package in hand, made his way down to the first floor. As he stepped off the last tread he noticed Lucas was standing guard outside the door. At first he thought this could be ominous but remembered whenever his father was in residence the butler was always there.

  As he stepped up he was surprised when the butler halted him with a slightly raised hand.

  “Excuse me, m’ lord, His Grace has requested you be announced. Yes, I know it’s highly unusual, but those are his orders.”

  From behind the closed solid oak door he heard two voices and immediately recognized them to be his parents. Confused as he’d only requested to speak with his father, all Nash could do was shrug then give Lucas a nod.

  When the butler slipped through the door, Nash took in a breath and slowly let it out.

  Why am I nervous? I’m not in trouble as like the last time I was interviewed, or was it interrogated, by my parents.

  “Your Graces, Nash, Marquis of Renfield,” he heard the butler announce.