Page 51 of The Viscount and the Vicar's Daughter
Her smile was simply dazzling. Her irritation with him must have evaporated in the glorious sunshine. He watched her a moment longer to make certain she was not hiding the truth from him about her injury, then moved on to greet the other villagers and sample their wares.
Of course, nothing he ate was going to rival Viola’s talent.
His father had left his side and now stood beside Viola, assisting her in selling her tarts. She and everyone standing in queue took great delight in this, believing the Earl of Trent was honoring them with his presence and attention.
Alexander knew the old man was doing this to stand like an immovable block of granite between him and Viola.
George Haworth approached him as he stood with his arms crossed over his chest, staring at Viola and his father in the distance. “I understand you have been working closely with Miss Ruskin lately.”
“Good day, Haworth.” He was not going to be rude to the man, but whatever passed between him and Viola was no one’s business.
“Word has it she is organizing a house party for you. Quite a special party, it seems. I hear from your father you are seeking a wife.”
Why could his old man not keep his mouth shut?
Well, it was no secret.
His own staff would have whispered the news throughout Ardley days ago.
Viscount emerges from his stupor and prepares to do his duty as heir.
Seeking ton diamond to pop out sons.
Gossip was already rife. Did his father have to stoke that fire and blabber about it to everyone at the fair?
George cleared his throat and straightened his shoulders. “So am I.”
Alexander now pinned his gaze on the man. “What?”
“I am also seeking a wife, my lord. I wish to marry Miss Ruskin. Her father heartily approves.”
Alexander arched an eyebrow and tossed him an intimidating frown.
George paled, for he was more of a scholarly sort than a fighter. He was of average height and average build, and women probably considered him pleasant in looks. His family was wealthy, and he was fairly intelligent. Grudgingly, Alexander had to admit he was a decent fellow. “Why are you telling me this? Are you asking for my permission, too? I can assure you, the choice is Miss Ruskin’s alone to make.”
“No, my lord. You have the power to take that choice from her.”
“Have a care, Haworth. I do not like what you are implying.”
“My only wish is to protect her. Rumors get around, if you understand my meaning. It has not escaped anyone’s notice how often you are in her company lately, and at all hours.”
“Are you mad?”
“Perhaps, but you must have a care about her reputation. I have to think about mine as well. I cannot marry her if she is…tarnished.”
“Blessed saints, you think I would ever hurt that girl?” But his father thought the same. How many others were thinking it as well?
“I know your meetings are innocent because I know Miss Ruskin is a good soul and would never do anything untoward. But others may not judge her so kindly. You are the earl’s heir, after all. Rich, powerful, and all the ladies consider you quite handsome. For an unmarried young lady to be seen so much in your company…need I say more? Everyone knows she is beneath your station and you will not marry her.”
“Is that so?” Alexander began to seethe, for Viola was quality and deserved better than to be talked about like this.
“Scandal is already brewing and it will destroy her father if he learns of it. After all his years of good service to the parish, is he to die knowing there is a stain on his daughter’s–”
“Utter another word of that nonsense and I shall lay you low.” Alexander felt the blood roar to his head. “How can anyone think she is anything other than sweet and decent? If you claim to know and trust her as you do, then how can you even think to abandon her? Over some unfounded rumors? You’ve known her all her life. When has she ever behaved as anything less than a lady?”
“She hasn’t, not to my knowledge. But people talk and I am not in a position to ignore such chatter. If you admire her as much as you say you do, then put an end to your meetings. It is the only way to protect her reputation. Or do you not care that she will be branded as your mistress? Is this not what men of your rank do? Dally with every pretty girl you see.”
“George, do you have a death wish? I suggest you stop talking now.”
