Page 52 of How to Cross a Marquess (The Way to a Lord's Heart 3)

That was true. Mainly because of him, Roger thought. But Fenella, too. “We’re different now,” he said. “Both of us.”

His mother nodded, watching his face.

“So the case is altered.”

“Are you saying you want to marry her now?”

“Yes. You’ll say I made a great fuss about nothing in that case,” Roger replied. “And wasted a deal of time and…emotion.” Mr. Fairclough certainly would. He knew Fenella dreaded that.

“I won’t.” Her eyes were sympathetic. “We can only do our best at any given time. Hindsight is deceptive.”

He hadn’t known much five years ago, Roger acknowledged silently. A load of difficulties had educated him since then.

“She seems a very appealing young lady,” said Macklin.

“I’d be delighted to welcome her into our family,” said Roger’s mother.

They spoke as if the match was settled just because he desired it. “I’m not sure what she wants though.”

“But you have some reason to think she feels the same?” asked his mother.

He couldn’t tell them about the kisses. He wouldn’t expose Fenella that way. “I believe so, but…circumstances intervened before I could ask her.”

“What sort of circumstances?” asked Macklin.

“Her nephew. Snakes.”

“Snakes!” his mother exclaimed.

“The pursuit of snakes.” Roger strove to recall the conversation that came after their embraces. He’d been muddled by desire. And anger at the interruption. “She said I should take time to think. And be certain.” She’d mentioned Arabella. Roger winced.

“And have you?” asked his mother.

“Have I what?”

“Thought? Now that the situation has…cooled.”

Could she read his mind? Of course not. But Roger flushed at the memory of lying with Fenella in the grass. “I’m certain she’s the bride for me.”

“Well then, you must ask her, and find out if she feels the same.”

“She might appreciate a formal offer,” suggested Macklin. “On your knee, you know. Ladies like that.”

“Do we?” said Roger’s mother with a smile. “You seem to know a good deal about it.”

“Pure hearsay,” answered Macklin. They smiled at each other like firm friends.

This was a good idea. He could do that. “I’ll go to Clough House now.”

“No time like the present,” said Macklin.

Scarcely seeming to hear, Roger rushed off.

“There seems to be no need for a push,” Macklin added when the younger man had disappeared into the castle.

“Not at the moment.” Lady Chatton shrugged. “We must see how he does.”

“You think there will be problems?”

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