Page 15 of Made for the Marquess (Second Sons of London 4)

Her words emboldened him and he said, “You seem to have insight into me, Miss Nicholls.”

“I realize that you are uncomfortable around those you do not know,” she said astutely. “I most certainly understand that because my twin, Sera, is quite shy around those she meets. All our lives, I have been the one more outgoing, while Sera is a bit shy. When she gets to know someone, though, she can be as lively and entertaining as anyone.”

Miss Nicholls paused, looking at him steadily. “I see the same in you, Lord Kingston. You probably are most comfortable around your family and close friends but being around strangers can be difficult for you.”

“You are beautiful as well as insightful,” he observed. “You have also hit the nail upon the proverbial head. I do have trouble opening up around those I do not know. My nature has always been extremely reserved. I was very close to my brother, Rupert, who held the title before I did.”

“Was he your only sibling?” she asked. “Or do you have younger ones, as well?”

“No, just an heir and a spare. My parents were barely interested in the two of us, much less in having other children.”

“It is quite the opposite for me,” she revealed. “Both Sera and I are quite close to our parents. They were a love match and are open in their affection, both to each other and us. While I am more like Papa and a bit closer to him, Mama and Sera are peas in a pod. I wish I could have had more siblings but Mama almost died giving birth to twins and the doctor warned her never to attempt to have more children.”

“It is wonderful you are so close but you mentioned they are still in Canada. Why are they there—and you here?”

She bit her bottom lip and a flush of heat filled Percy. It took everything in his power not to lean over and kiss her.

“I think I mentioned that Papa was named as the assistant to the Administrator of Upper Canada several years ago. Sera and I went to Ontario, only intending to remain a year before returning to England to make our come-outs.”

“And those pesky Americans foiled your plans, didn’t they?” he asked. “You mentioned the other evening how the war prevented you from returning home.”

Miss Nicholls nodded. “Civilian travel across the Atlantic ceased. Only troops and needed supplies were transferred to and fro. Sera and I remained in limbo for those years.” She sighed. “Now, I am considered to be on the shelf at two and twenty. Other girls my age have already wed and many have started their families.”

His thumb stroked her ankle. “You certainly are not on the shelf, Miss Nicholls. If anything, your maturity will separate you from the giggling girls making their come-outs. Your beauty will draw men to you.” He swallowed hard. “Are you looking for a husband?”

“I think most every woman is, my lord,” she said softly. “Women are maternal by nature. They want to have children and titled peers certainly need their heirs.”

He wanted more than anything to ask if he could be among her suitors come the Season but paralysis set in. He could not speak, as if some witch had enchanted him and cast a spell that kept him from saying what was in his heart.

The silence between them stretched on and Percy saw the moment slipping away. Miss Nicholls’ gaze turned from him, settling upon her lap.

They kept their thoughts to themselves the remainder of the ride. When the carriage returned to Westfield, he decided she’d had enough of him and he’d made a fool of himself, thinking this spirited, vivacious woman would ever consider a future with him.

“Let me see you inside, Miss Nicholls,” he said politely, gathering her in his arms, enjoying the feel of her curves against him and that enticing scent of vanilla invading his senses.

“Thank you, my lord.”

Percy carried her inside and she directed him to take her to the drawing room. Both Lord and Lady Westlake awaited them and he placed Miss Nicholls upon a large settee, seeing the pillow was placed under her tender ankle.

Then he looked directly at Lord Westlake, avoiding both women, and said, “I am afraid I will be unable to stay for tea, after all. I recalled that I was to meet with my steward this afternoon. I am certain you understand when the duties of your estate call.”

The earl nodded sagely. “Certainly, Lord Kingston. Perhaps you can come another time for tea.”

“That would be lovely,” he said woodenly, knowing there would be no other teatimes for him and Miss Nicholls.

She deserved someone far more interesting than he could ever be. She was a shining light that would brighten any room.

Forcing himself to look her way, he saw the puzzled expression on her face as he said, “I hope you recover from your injury, Miss Nicholls, and are back to your usual walks sooner than later. Good day.” He turned to Lady Westlake and echoed the same words.

Leaving the drawing room behind, Percy cursed himself for ruining his chances with the very beautiful Miss Nicholls.

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