Page 43 of An Earl Unmasked
She wouldn’t be forced to marry a man who didn’t want to marry her, and she certainly didn’t want a man to marry her as a result of a simple misunderstanding or the wild imaginations of others.
She jumped the fence onto the Malbury estate and rode directly to the stables, not looking back to see how far back the others might be. Why hadn’t she been wise enough to remain at home with Minerva? On the terrace, she spied both her mama and Minerva sitting with easels in front of them. Diana laughed; it was a close toss-up as to which was worse—stuck painting watercolors or causing a scandal.
Stable hands rushed out at the pounding of horse hooves. Diana slid to the ground without assistance and gave the reins over.
Diana had made it halfway to the terrace before Kent’s edict reached her ears. “Diana Malbury, halt right there.”
She turned to face her irate brother. “Nothing untoward occurred. There is no need to glare at me.”
“No need? You went missing from the hunting party. Alone, with an unmarried gentleman. You know the consequences.”
“The entire hunting party comprised of friends and family. I highly doubt either Cunningham or Drake is likely to spread false rumors.”
“Very well. But answer this one question before Mama arrives.” He settled his hands on his hips. “Have you shared a kiss with Chestwick?”
Diana’s gaze flickered to the left. Her siblings and her mama were about to be within earshot. She leaned forward and answered, “Lord Chestwick and I did not share a kiss today.”
“Let me rephrase my question. Have you ever shared a kiss with Chestwick?”
She peered down at her toes and nodded.
“I’m assuming no other witnessed the event.”
“You are correct. I shan’t be forced into marriage…” Anger rolled through Diana. “Unless you agree to marry the last lady you kissed in private. I believe Lady…”
“That is not the same. Knowing Chestwick has taken liberties with you, I must demand he do the honorable thing.”
No longer alone, Minerva wrapped an arm around Diana. “And should Lord Harrow demand the same of you?”
“How do you know of such things?”
“Being sister to a rogue has certain advantages. Ladies rarely hold their tongues and are more than happy to be friends if it means the possibility of sharing your company.”
“Bah. You shall not distract me, Minerva.”
Her sister did not relent. “Do you love Chestwick, Diana?”
“Of course I do.”
“Then I suggest you carefully consider your actions.”
Kent turned to Diana. “Why would you allow Chestwick to kiss you if you do not wish to wed the man?”
Diana carefully considered her answer. “It was before I knew he was more akin to our papa than his own.”
“What does that mean?”
Diana looked at her sisters. Maybe she could help them all if she voiced their shared wish. “It means I want a husband who will adore and cherish me, not take me for granted.”
Kent’s brows creased. Diana, flanked by her sisters, headed toward the house, leaving Kent and Gregory to ponder her last statement.
Isadora placed a hand on Diana’s elbow. “I know you and Minerva have spent more time with Lord Chestwick than I. And I’d never wish for you to be unhappy. But I am an excellent judge of character, and I don’t believe Lord Chestwick shares any of the traits that we wish to avoid.”
Diana tilted her head. “How could you possibly know that given the little time you have spent in his presence?”
“Reading people is my skill. I know these things.” Isadora hurried ahead.
Diana turned to Minerva. “Don’t tell me you agree.”
