Free The Prince's Bride by Victoria Alexander Page A

you’re not really spoiled, shallow, and insufferable, at least not all the time.”
    “Thank you,” Jocelyn said dryly.
    “And I also know this is dreadful for you. But he’s really not all that bad. Why, I’d wager eventually you’ll have a wonderful life together.”
    “No, we won’t. I don’t see how we could.” Jocelyn got to her feet and turned to Marianne. “You have to promise me, when this is over and you’re the Marchioness of Helmsley with all the money and power of the Effington family behind you, you’ll do everything you can to help me procure an annulment or a divorce.”
    Marianne shook her head. “I don’t know if that’s even possible.”
    “Marianne.” Jocelyn took her hands and met her gaze firmly. She drew a deep breath. “I’m doing this as much for you and Becky, more really, as I am for myself.”
    “What a selfless heroine she is.” Becky sighed dramatically. “Willing to sacrifice herself for her sisters’ safety.”
    Jocelyn ignored her. “I’m willing to take the risk of staying right here but I can’t put you in danger.”
    “Is she willing to sacrifice her virtue as well?” Becky said in a stage whisper.
    “Quiet,” Jocelyn snapped but kept her gaze on Marianne. “All I’m asking in return is that you help me escape from this marriage when the time comes.”
    “But perhaps our fair heroine forgets there would not be a threat in the first place if she hadn’t—”
    “Becky!” Jocelyn whirled toward the younger girl. “If you say one more word I shall—”
    “Stop it at once, both of you,” Marianne ordered. “Becky, you are not helping.”
    “Will you promise me then?” Jocelyn held her breath.
    Marianne nodded slowly. “I promise to do what I can to ensure your happiness. Whatever that entails.”
    Jocelyn heaved a sigh of relief. Marianne’s vow wasn’t, in truth, very much, but it was at least something to hold on to, a tiny raft to keep Jocelyn’s spirits afloat. If she could cling to the belief that marriage to Beaumont was not permanent, she could take whatever came. At least for now. “Thank you.”
    “You do realize annulment or divorce will not really put things right. It will not erase your marriage as if it never existed.” Sympathy shown on Marianne’s face. “Even if we manage to keep all of this secret, there is no way to privately obtain the dissolution of a marriage. Word will get out. There will be a certain amount of scandal.” She shook her head. “You will not be able to pick up your life as if nothing has happened.”
    “I know.” Even as she said the words Jocelyn realized, deep down inside herself, she did indeed know her life would change forever. And nothing would ever be the same.
    “Now, you must make me a promise,” Marianne said firmly. “Promise that you will keep in mind the fact that Beaumont too is making a sacrifice. That his life too will be changed irrevocably. And give me your word that you will at least try to accept this marriage for however long it may last.” She pulled her closer and kissed Jocelyn’s forehead. “We have been through far greater difficulties in our lives and survived. You will come through this unscathed.”
    “Will I?” Jocelyn murmured.
    “I for one have no doubt of it.” Becky grinned. “It takes a certain strength of character to be spoiled, shallow, and insufferable. A weaker nature couldn’t handle it at all.”
    For a moment no one said a word. Then all three sisters burst into laughter.
    “Thank you, Becky.” Jocelyn laughed. “No one quite puts me in my place the way you do.”
    “Now then,” Marianne said with a smile. “Do I have your word? That you will at least try to be an acceptable wife.” Jocelyn opened her mouth to protest but Marianne cut her off. “Within reason, of course.”
    “Very well. I promise. I will do my best to be rather less insufferable and to be an acceptable wife and a better person as well, I suppose.” Jocelyn sighed. “And