Jilted in January Read Online Free PDF Page B

There was something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern for her that strengthened her resolve.
    At the end of the meal, Great-Aunt Maude somehow contrived to send the majority of the guests onward to the drawing room for tea, which was quite a feat, considering she didn’t accompany them. The servants set out the port and brandy, and all left the room, which was also unusual. Rose began to suspect something was up as her brother smiled at her through the candlelight.
    “We thought that considering your recent disappointment, you might prefer to speak to us privately this evening, Rose. “
    She met his smile with one of her own. “Seeing as I have done nothing to be ashamed of, I wonder why you would think that? Any embarrassment surely lies with you for not protecting my honor and your friend for ignoring our betrothal.”
    David tugged at his collar. “For goodness sake, Rose. Can’t you be a little more charitable?”
    “Why should I?” She glanced over at Henry, who was frowning. “I have waited for your return for seven years.”
    “Miss Leyton does have a point.”
    Mr. Ford’s quiet voice made her look around. She’d almost forgotten he was there, as apparently had the rest of her family.
    “Miss Leyton is the injured party.”
    David ignored Mr. Ford and shared a quick glance with Henry. “As to that—we have a solution. After speaking to Aunt Maude, we found a perfect candidate for you to consider as a marriage prospect.”
    Rose put down her fork. “I beg your pardon?”
    “Great-Aunt Maude says you already have another suitor right here in the village.” David sat back as if the matter was all but settled.
    “Are you talking about Mr. Potter?”
    “I believe that’s his name, yes.”
    “He is fifty years of age, twice widowed, and has nine children!”
    “And owns the second largest property in the vicinity. Aunt Maude says he is very keen to make you his wife.” David nodded. “I intend to speak with him tomorrow, so don’t worry your little head, sis. I’ll have you comfortably settled in no time.”
    Rose took a deep breath. “I am not marrying Mr. Potter.”
    “Now, come on, Rose. You have to see things from my point of view.”
    “Oh, I do, David. You want to sweep this embarrassing matter under the rug and go happily back to London with your best friend.”
    “I’m just trying to make things right.”
    “Then let’s wait until the new duke is found and ask for his opinion on this matter, shall we?” She glared at her brother. “He might have something to say about the situation I find myself in.”
    Her brother’s amiable expression disappeared. “I have no intention of hanging around here, waiting for the appearance of the new duke!”
    “And you do not need to.” She smiled. “I appreciate your concern, David, but I’m quite capable of finding a new candidate for my hand by myself.”
    “That wouldn’t be seemly,” David objected. “You must consult with Great-Aunt Maude and your menfolk before making such an important decision.”
    Rose got up, her hands fisted at her sides. “I trusted you once before, brother, and you chose to side with the man who broke his promise to me. Why should I listen to you now?”
    She bobbed a curtsy in the direction of her aunt. “Pray excuse me, my lady. I am not feeling at all the thing and shall retire to my bed.”
    By the time she reached the safety of her bedroom she was already in tears. She locked the door, flung herself onto her bed, and indulged herself in a good cry.

    “Well, I say.” Lieutenant Leyton scowled at the door his sister had just slammed shut behind her. “I wonder what’s wrong with her? All I was trying to do was help.”
    Colin pressed his lips tightly together as the urge to leap across the table and strangle Miss Leyton’s mutton-headed brother consumed him.
    “She has a right to be upset, David,” Lieutenant Woodford said hesitantly. “No woman likes to be replaced by