Page 79 of Midnight with the Marquess (The St. Clairs 2)

“Let’s talk about your Season. I only see you at events and you’re always surrounded by many men.”

“I have started a prospective husband list,” she confided. “I have four names on it now.”

“Oh? Do tell. Let me guess. The gentleman who was so eager for you to agree with him isn’t on it, is he?”

She laughed. “He hasn’t a chance. The only thing he has in his favor is that he is a wonderful dancer. Though I love to dance, I can’t see going through my marriage only dancing when I’m around him.”

“You don’t even know his name, do you?”

“No. I know we were introduced but I’ve found if a man isn’t going to make my list, I’m not going to invest time in him. That includes remembering endless names and titles.”

“He is quite handsome and will be an earl soon.”

Rachel shook her head. “Looks have never meant much to me. Neither do titles. I’m looking for excellent qualities from the men on my list. That gentleman is much too boring.”

“What does it take to be added?” Leah asked. “I’m curious.”

“All kinds of things. Kindness. Generosity. Intelligence. A sense of humor. Someone who can converse about more than the weather or food.”

“Share with me the names you’ve accumulated thus far.”

Rachel went through the three that ranked number two, three, and four on her list, saving Merrifield for last.

“I might have guessed Merrifield would be on it,” her friend said. “He showed quite an interest in you when we were at the house party Alex held before our marriage. I suppose it doesn’t hurt that Merrifield has good looks and wealth.”

She shrugged. “He offers more, though. He’s amusing. Witty. We talk about all kinds of things. He actually likes that I have strong opinions and express them freely.”

Leah smiled. “You are so like Cor in that regard.”

“Thank you. You couldn’t have given me a higher compliment.”

“Every woman wants to be Cor and every man enjoys her company, whether young or old.”

“Cor likes Merrifield. So do Jeremy and Catherine. The four of us have had tea together. Gone riding and to the theatre.”

“It sounds as if Merrifield tops your list,” Leah said thoughtfully.

“He does,” Rachel confirmed. “He’s also a good kisser even though he hasn’t tried to kiss me since last August at Fairfield.”

Her friend’s brows rose in surprise. “He hasn’t? Why not?”

She felt her cheeks heat. “He says he will when the time is right. He says... that he wants me to burn for him.”

It was Leah’s turn to blush. “Oh, my.”

“I know.”

“Do you? Burn for him.”

Rachel considered the question. “No. I like him quite a bit. I can see myself with him. I believe he would make for a good husband and father. I’ve seen him play with Timothy, Delia, and Jenny. He seemed so natural.” She hesitated. “I remember he kissed well. He would make me happy in our marriage bed. Burn for him? No. Not yet, anyway.”

“What of Merrick?” Leah asked softly.

Her throat tightened. “What of him?”

“I know you have said nothing could exist between you but I sense otherwise, Rachel. I know you, perhaps better than anyone. What are your feelings toward him? Have they changed since last summer?”

Tears welled in her eyes. She grasped Leah’s hand. It took a moment to compose herself before she could speak.

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