To Dare a Rogue - Lana Williams (novels for beginners TXT) 📗

James’ stomach sank despite the fact that the news was unsurprising. “I respectfully ask you to reconsider. I believe I could provide a good life for Charlotte, and I care a great deal for her.”

“That is all well and good. However, I'm certain you are aware that isn’t a basis for marriage.”

“I disagree.” James refused to hold back his opinion. “I believe if you spoke with Charlotte, she would welcome my suit.” He didn't bother to say that she had no desire to marry Lord Samuelson. Her father already knew that and didn't seem to care.

“What Charlotte wants is of little consequence.”

“May I ask why?”

“Why what?”

James clenched his jaw. He had many questions but doubted he would receive answers to any of them. “What does Lord Samuelson have that I don't?”

There had to be something. A reason Lord Wynn was so determined to see his daughter married to Samuelson.

“No, you may not ask. Now if that is all, I have other issues requiring my attention.” The earl leaned back in his chair.

Left with no choice, James stood. “I'm sorry you feel that way. I have no doubt that I would make a better husband for Charlotte than Samuelson. It’s unfortunate that you don't see the situation in the same light.”

He turned on his heel and left, relieved not to see Edward or Charlotte on his way out. He needed time to think of another approach before speaking with Charlotte. Otherwise, he feared she would give up.

That was something he refused to do.

~*~

“What if...” Margaret’s eyes narrowed as she studied the various ribbons and feathers displayed at the haberdashery.

“What if what?” Charlotte glanced between the decorative items and Margaret, hoping her friend was thinking of something other than how best to embellish a hat.

Gordon had mentioned that James had called on her father earlier in the day. Shortly after that, her father had sent for her and ordered her not to see James from this point forward.

Her protests had fallen on deaf ears. Charlotte had left in tears and returned to her bedchamber before at last sending a message to Margaret, requesting her to meet her at their favorite haberdashery on Bond Street.

Charlotte had no desire to shop, but it was the best way to speak with her friend. She’d shed a few more tears as she told Margaret that James had called and what her father had told her.

“What if you simply step out onto the terrace at the next ball with James?” Margaret turned to Charlotte and touched her arm. “I’ll make certain to be there and will advise your mother that you’re missing and bring her outside where we would find the two of you alone. Viscount Redmond would then be forced to propose and you’d accept. Simple.” She gave a single nod as if her plan was completely logical.

Charlotte shook her head. “Do you think I haven’t already thought of something similar?” The idea was tempting but felt wrong.

“Then what is the problem?”

“I don’t want our future to begin with deception. Causing a scandal would hurt too many.”

“Like who?” Margaret lifted a spool of ribbon and held it closer to the window as if to better see the color.

“My mother. Me. James. Edward. Lord Samuelson.”

“Are you quite serious?” Margaret frowned as she looked back at Charlotte. “You’re adding him to the list?”

“I don’t want to harm anyone with my behavior. I only want to be with James.” She sniffed, hoping not to cry again.

“I’m not certain you can have one without the other given the situation.” Margaret returned the spool to the basket. “You do remember that Caroline began her life with Aberland all because of a moment alone on a terrace with him. Never mind that he was questioning her on a completely different topic. Look at how lovely their marriage is.”

“True.” She adored hearing the tale of the Earl and Countess of Aberland’s journey to love. “But that was more a situation where fate stepped in rather than your sister forcing circumstances to her benefit.”

“Hmm. I see your point.” Margaret moved farther into the store, examining various items with a critical eye while Charlotte followed, her thoughts on anything but bonnets and hats.

When Charlotte realized the shop clerk watched them closely, she paused to feign interest in a straw bonnet only to have Margaret take it from her and put it back. “That one isn’t a good style for you.”

“Really?” Charlotte studied the bonnet, wondering why. Then again, Margaret’s taste in such things was impeccable. “Anyway, I don’t know what to do now.”

“It seems at the very least that you should continue to be a thorn in your father’s side about it.”

“I suppose.” As much as Charlotte didn’t want to argue with him, and in fact, would prefer to avoid him, Margaret was right. “Otherwise, he will think I am resigned to his plan.”

“Exactly. He might attempt to hurry things along.”

“I certainly don’t want that.” Her stomach dropped at the thought. “Perhaps I should speak with Mother again as well so that she understands how much I detest Lord Samuelson. I’ll visit with Edward too.”

Margaret scoffed. “Why bother?” At Charlotte’s puzzled look, she added, “It seems as if he isn’t concerned about your predicament. What sort of brother acts like that?”

“I suppose he feels nearly as helpless as I do to protest Father’s plans, considering doing so has never worked in the past.”

“But he’s his only son and heir.”

“Men are often times as bound by duty as women. Especially when one is the heir.”

Margaret pondered her words for a long moment. “I will attempt to refrain from judgment, but I am still bothered by his lack of action on your behalf.”

“Thank you.” Charlotte truly appreciated Margaret’s unwavering support. She knew there had been times in the past when Edward had railed against their father to no avail. He’d given up in most respects, living his life with as little involvement with Lord Wynn as possible. “Families are complicated, aren’t they?”

“On that, we