Page 7 of The Earl's Reluctant Bride
“Very well. You give your permission for Elizabeth to go to Codicote?”
“Indeed.”
“She will be pleased. I told her she should come to find me so I shall give her the news. If you will excuse me ….” The countess said.
Elizabeth had been rooted in the spot but she quickly realized that if she did not move, she would be found out. Ladies of impeccable breeding did not eavesdrop. Her feet glided as she hurriedly departed. Her breathing had quickened, she felt faint and she had the sensation that her head had grown larger. Tears blurred her vision. She blinked them away furiously to ensure she did not misstep. She made the dash to her bedchamber, closed the door, and collapsed against its sturdy frame. Her hands shook so she pressed them together and took several deep breaths to steady herself. When her hands stopped trembling, she raised one to touch her forehead only to find it was damp with sweat.
Elizabeth walked over to her bed and collapsed in an unceremonious heap. She did not want to cry but her eyes welled up. They were tears of anger. How could her father possibly consider a match with the Duke of Rochester? Rumor says he is a cruel man who beats his wife. Did Papa not fear for her? Apparently not! When Mama raised her concern, he fobbed it away. Nobody thought to ask her what she wanted.
Elizabeth did not have time to contemplate further. She heard Mama’s steps coming down the hallway and she quickly dried her eyes, moved to her desk, and raised the book she had been reading. There was a knock on her door and Mama entered. Mama was composed and her expression showed no hint of the conversation Elizabeth overheard.
“Lizzy your father has agreed you may go to Codicote.”
Elizabeth attempted a small smile. “Thank you, Mama.”
Her mother studied her. “Are you well? You appear pale.”
Elizabeth lowered her gaze. “I am well, Mama. Tomorrow I will prepare for my trip.”
She hoped she did not sound as hurt as she felt. Why did Mama not stand up for her? Why did Papa have to have his way? Did they not see that this marriage would crush her spirit? Elizabeth could feel Mama’s stare, but she willed herself to remain calm.
“Very well.” Her mother sounded uncertain but she spun around and exited the bedchamber.
As soon as the door closed Elizabeth threw herself on her bed. She seethed with anger and disappointment. She would not marry that odious, repulsive man, not over her dead body, and there was nothing that her parents would say that could change her mind. Absolutely nothing. She could not imagine being wed to a man she did not truly love for such unhappiness and emptiness would not be visited upon her.
She wanted a love match.
This pattern of outside interference in the affairs of the heart was detestable and she would not have it.
* * *
Three days later
Codicote Manor, Kent
Elizabeth had just arrivedat Codicote and she sat with Amelia and Eleanor sipping tea in the drawing room. Her thoughts flashed back to her parents’ betrayal. Tears welled up in her eyes and her lips began to tremble. Elizabeth fought to keep her fragile control.
Amelia’s jaw dropped as she reached out and touched Elizabeth’s shoulder. “Whatever is the matter, Lizzy?”
Elizabeth could no longer hold the tears that flooded down her cheeks.
“Oh dear!” Eleanor exclaimed, her eyes gentle with sympathy. She placed her teacup on the table and held Elizabeth’s hand. “Please tell us what is upsetting you so.”
Elizabeth stuttered through her tears and sniffles. “Mama and Papa … the Duke of Rochester … but I shall not … I cannot.”
Amelia handed Elizabeth a handkerchief. “I am sorry to see you so upset, Lizzy, but please slow down. I cannot understand what you are saying.”
Elizabeth closed her eyes and drew in deep breaths to calm herself. Then her eyes flew open, and her hands were fisted in her lap. With her lips curled and her eyes narrowed she replied, “Mama and Papa desire that I wed the Duke of Rochester but I will never!” Elizabeth relayed the conversation she overheard to her friends.
Amelia and Eleanor rose from their chairs and placed their arms around Elizabeth. “I am so sorry, Lizzy.”
Their touch was reassuring and comforting. Elizabeth broke the hug and searched their faces before she pleaded, “What am I to do?” Just thinking of it shattered her.
Amelia paused. “Are you certain you heard correctly?”
“I am sure.” Elizabeth’s mind was languid, without hope.
“I must admit that you have left me winded, Lizzy. I did not think your parents would decide on a suitor when you have not been presented.” Eleanor squeezed her hand.
