Page 95 of When He Was a Duke
“Not really. In fact, I feel I might be sick.” Sebastian gestured helplessly at his half-fastened waistcoat. “My hands won’t seem to work properly.”
“Wedding nerves, my lord. Perfectly natural. My cousin Billy was sick as a dog on his wedding morning. Couldn’t keep his breakfast down.”
“That’s not particularly reassuring, Finch.”
“Ah, but he had a lovely wedding once we got him to the church,” Finch said cheerfully, beginning to work on Sebastian’s waistcoat with practiced efficiency.
Sebastian watched in the mirror as Finch’s capable hands made quick work of the buttons he’d been struggling with. “I knew you were the perfect choice for my valet, Finch. I couldn’t be more pleased.”
“Thank you, my lord. It’s my honor to serve you.” Finch stepped back, his gaze sweeping Sebastian from head to toe. “You must look perfect for Lady Rose.”
“Yes. I mustn’t disappoint her.”
“I doubt that would be possible.” Finch picked up the cravat they’d chosen for his nuptials. “But half the county will be at that church today, and I’ll not have anyone saying Lord Ashford’s valet doesn’t know his business.”
Sebastian smiled at the pride in Finch’s voice. “I have no concerns in that regard.”
Finch began working on the cravat. “Though I have to say, perhaps you should have a whiskey? To calm your nerves.”
“At the moment, I cannot think of anything I would like less.” Sebastian closed his eyes as Finch worked. “I didn’t expect to be so nervous.”
Finch stepped back to examine his work, then made a small adjustment. “You are splendid, my lord. Even if your stomach is slightly queasy. I doubt very much you’ll be sick during your vows. It hardly ever happens.”
Sebastian laughed. “Again, not terribly comforting.”
Finch moved to the wardrobe and selected Sebastian’s wedding coat—a deep blue that complemented his eyes. “Now then, let’s get you into this. Can’t keep your bride waiting.”
As Finch helped him into the coat, Sebastian caught sight ofhimself in the mirror. “I look like my father. Like a gentleman.”
“As it should be.” Finch paused in his adjustments to Sebastian’s collar. He straightened Sebastian’s lapels with careful precision. He stepped back to survey his work, then nodded with satisfaction. “There. Perfection.”
“Have you talked to Prudence? Is Lady Rose well this morning?”
“Beautiful as an angel, according to Prudence. Though she’s a bit nervous too, if that’s any comfort.”
“It is, actually.” Sebastian checked his reflection one final time, surprised to find that his hands had stopped shaking. “I am ready.”
“Then let’s get you to that church. Your bride is waiting.”
As they made their way downstairs, Sebastian’s nerves lessened. In fact, he grew more excited with every step toward the door. He was going to marry the most extraordinary woman he’d ever known. She loved him, which frankly, still seemed like an impossibility yet here they were. Choosing each other. A love match for two people who had seemed doomed for lives of misfortune.
At the bottom of the stairs, he squeezed Finch’s shoulder. “She chose me. Is that not remarkable?”
“Not to me, my lord.”
Mrs. Blythe appeared, slightly out of breath and looking unusually flustered.
“My lord, forgive the interruption, but Constable Stephens has just arrived. He’s asking to speak with you and Mr. Hale urgently before you depart for the church.”
Sebastian felt his stomach drop. “What’s happened? Is Rose all right?”
“Lady Rose is perfectly well, my lord. She’s already left for the church with her attendants. The constable seems pleased, if I may say so. Not bearing bad news.”
Relief flooded through Sebastian, though he remained puzzled. “Where is he?”
“In the study, my lord. Mr. Hale is with him.”
Sebastian exchanged a glance with Finch, who straightened his shoulders with determination. “Go on then, my lord. I’ll wait here in case you need anything.”
