Page 32 of Kiss the Scoundrel Farewell
“I’ve been thinking about that too. There may be a way to make everyone happy.” He wouldn’t tell Meg until he’d thought through the particulars, but the idea had come to Simon early that morning while he was in bed. He’d replayed the past weeks, and a solution now simmered in the back of his mind.
The following week
London
The first thing Simon did upon his return to London was to visit the O’Briens, settle his bill, and thank them for their timely assistance. When he’d told the couple of his betrothal, they beamed.
“Took my advice, boyo?” Paddy slapped his knee. “Ye won’t regret it.”
Today, he was meeting with Dr. Brooks and his new wife. She was a pretty woman, petite with auburn hair and large blue eyes. Simon had liked her immediately and knew Meg would too.
“I am happy to welcome you as the first member of our hospital board,” Dr. Brooks said, holding out his hand. “We are hoping to open the doors by summer. Dottie will be in charge of the school, and I will, of course, run the hospital.”
“I began as an instructor at a girls’ academy,” explained Mrs. Brooks. “This is like a dream come true.”
When Simon left, he headed to Lord Drake’s house. He had a proposition for the baron.
“You want me to what?” asked Drake, his tone incredulous.
“You must have an heir to carry on the title. If there is anything left,” added Simon. “This… collaboration would benefit both of you.”
“From what I’ve heard, she’s a doxie in peer clothing,” grumbled Drake.
“Ah, yes. Those same on-dits also whisper about a baron who gambles away a fortune and prefers men.” Simon leaned forward, his elbows on his knees. “You would restore your coffers and live your own life without tongues wagging. Lady Lydia would have a father for her babe and be able to continue her… pursuits.”
“I’ve met her, you know. She is quite witty and entertaining.” Drake rubbed his jaw, his nose swollen from too much drink.
“Yes, you would make quite the couple,” Simon agreed sincerely. “I suggest you go to Lord Grestan and say you’ve been admiring Lady Lydia from afar. Beg him for her hand.”
“And you will settle my debt with the, uh, other gentleman?”
Simon snorted. “Once I hear you and the dear lady are betrothed.”
His last meeting was with his family. He had put it off long enough. Simon entered the Tarlton townhouse, dreading the upcoming scene.
“Father, Mama,” he said as they all settled in the parlor for tea, acting the civilized family before chaos began. “I am betrothed to Lady Drake.”
“Not the—” began his mother.
“I believe,” cut in his father, giving his wife a glare, “your mother means congratulations. Don’t you, dear?”
Lady Tarlton opened her mouth, but something passed between the couple. Instead, she pasted on a smile. “Of course, we are. When is the… happy day?”
Simon’s mouth fell open. His eyes darted from his mother to father, then over to his sister, who was grinning.
“Things have changed a bit while you’ve been gone,” murmured Addie, her gray eyes dancing with mirth. “I cannot wait to meet her.”
Simon shook his head, unable to comprehend the transformation in his father. “I also wanted to inform Mama that her dear friend may soon have a son-in-law.”
When Simon rose to leave, Addie walked him to the door. “It’s been like night and day,” she whispered as they stood on the portico. “Papa just gives her a look, and her mouth clamps shut. Besides him giving the orders now, something else has happened.”
“Tell me, Poppit. Don’t keep me in suspense.” Simon laughed. He’d missed his clever, comical sister.
“They give each other these secret smiles. You know, the kind I used to give…” A rare sadness dimmed her eyes, and Simon knew she was remembering her dead fiancé. “The kind one saves for a beloved.”
Simon’s eyes grew wide. His parents acting as if they were in love? Perhaps miracles did happen. He grinned and chucked his sister under the chin. “If love can find our parents, then anyone can be happy, right?”
Addie nodded, her dark hair gleaming in the afternoon sun. She kissed him on the cheek. “I cannot wait to meet her. I know we will be the best of friends.”
