Free An Accidental Affair by Heather Boyd

whit for her aunt’s advice. If you think I’ll help you simply on the threat of tarnishing Lady Farnsworth’s reputation, think again. I don’t believe we have anything further to say to one another.”
    Laurence bounced to his feet and leaned over the desk, his voice dropping low. “On the contrary. Cecily cares for her aunt’s future a great deal and bemoans the fact that, as a chaperone, Lady Farnsworth has not been free to pursue her own life. She’s much too pretty to be alone.” Laurence’s throat worked as he swallowed. “And I’ve noticed Lady Farnsworth has caught your attention. Do you have a special license from grandfather, too? Are you considering proposing to her?”
    Merrick cursed roundly under his breath. If this simpleton had detected his admiration for Arabella, then it was likely that others had, too. He stilled. Had his aunt come out to ensure that Arabella’s reputation remained intact last night?  
    The idea that his mother’s family was set against any association, even a harmless one, between himself and Arabella infuriated him. He had never done one reproachable thing in his dealings with the lady before except accidentally kiss her last night. Aunt Pen couldn’t have known about the kiss at the time. During the season, he had denied every impulse to linger near the widow because she was clearly uncomfortable around him. Last night she’d been flustered, but she would never willingly choose him over propriety. His family’s mistrust was the final straw.
    If he could not have Arabella, then he would help someone else find their happiness by any means. He strode to the doorway and yanked it open. “Holland, have the new coach ready to make a long journey tonight,” he bellowed and then slammed the door shut.
    Laurence was on his feet in an instant, towering over him. “You cannot leave now.”
    “Of course I cannot leave.” He stabbed his finger into Laurence’s chest, momentarily surprised by the resistance he encountered. Life onboard a ship had hardened the boy. “You will have your heart’s desire. Tonight. Take my new coach on the journey north and you’ll have a better chance of slipping from London undetected. I’ll have a word with your captain and ensure you suffer no penalty. He owes me.”
    Laurie gaped. “Why didn’t I think of that?”
    “Probably because Lady Cecily has fogged your mind with her long-winded love talk. Return here at seven to collect the coach, pack sparingly, and carry sufficient funds for accommodation, food, and change of horse. I won’t fund this whole affair, but I can ensure you make it to the border.” Merrick held out his hand for Laurence to shake. “Best of luck to you and your true love.”
     

 
    CHAPTER EIGHT
     
    “You cannot leave like this.” Arabella’s throat ached from the arguments, but she had to stop her niece from throwing her life away. Night had fallen and the maid had returned with the news that Lieutenant Ford was in agreement and would arrange the elopement for that very night. They were to meet one street away, on the edge of Green Park.
    Cecily snapped her portmanteau closed and sighed. “Father will not listen, and I love Laurie too much to wait another day. Do you have any idea how hard it is to see him and yet have to part each night? My soul is ripped in two by constant yearning. Were you ever so aware of another person that you simply did not care what happened to you if the feelings deep inside are so stirred again and again?”
    Arabella looked down at her hands. She had never felt such a way and doubted she ever would. Given recent developments, she might have no idea what love even looked like. She’d been so sure that Parker was interested. Yet it was Rothwell she’d kissed and wanted to again. “’Tis only lust stirring your body, Cecily,” she whispered.
    Cecily cupped her face with one hand, lifting her gaze. Steady, determined eyes met hers. The girl was reconciled to her decision.