Free His Perfect Bride by Jenn Langston

Confident he was not the marquis, and curious as to who he was, Brianna quickly returned to her mother’s side.
    “Good evening, Lady Ransley. Could I have the honor of an introduction to your daughter?” he asked, as Brianna stepped up beside them.
    Her mother paused, and Brianna wondered if she would refuse him. “Very well. This is Lady Brianna Denton, daughter to the Earl of Ransley. Brianna, this is Greyson Thorpe, Viscount Merrick.” Her mother introduced them, shifting uncomfortably.
    “Lady Brianna, it’s a pleasure to meet you,” he replied, bowing over her hand. “May I have your next dance?”
    She glanced down at her dance card, then back at him with a smile. “I would be honored, Lord Merrick,” Brianna agreed before her mother could respond. “You are lucky, for my dance card is empty for this next set.”
    There was likely a good reason for her mother’s behavior, but Brianna could not see any harm in a simple dance. As the first notes of the dance filled the room, she and Lord Merrick joined the other dancers. He appeared to be heavily concentrating and his body was stiff, as if he was not comfortable with the steps. It was unusual for someone of their class, especially a titled lord, to be unfamiliar with the dance, and it piqued her curiosity. Her mouth burned to ask him why, but she kept her lips firmly together to resist the urge. Taking pity on him, she managed to subtly help him along without the added complication of forcing him to hold a conversation as well.
    “Thank you for the dance, Lady Brianna.” Lord Merrick’s voice was full of gratitude. If it stemmed from her aid with the dance or from the conclusion of the song, she could not be sure.
    “You are very welcome.” She hoped he didn’t believe she thought any less of him for his lack of knowledge of the steps.
    “Would you care for a stroll on the terrace?”
    Brianna felt torn. He seemed to be a nice gentleman, but she had no desire to mislead him. However, delaying her mother and the looming introduction to the marquis remained foremost on her mind.
    “That sounds lovely, for it has become rather stifling in here.”
    As he led her out the ornate double doors, Brianna was happy to note the number of couples enjoying a break from the dancing. Considering her mother’s odd reaction upon their introduction, she didn’t wish to be alone with Lord Merrick.
    “Have you been enjoying the Season?” he asked as they looked out over the gardens. The hint of rose petals perfumed the cool night air, giving a welcome relief from the ballroom.
    “Yes, very much. And you?”
    “It’s tolerable.” He dismissively waved his hand. Then he turned to her. “May I speak plainly? I do despise all the small talk.”
    “I don’t mind.” Her curiosity piqued. “I have never been one to enjoy wasting time on pleasantries either.” It was not very often a gentleman would forgo the small things they imagined the ladies desired.
    “What are your aspirations for marriage?” he asked bluntly.
    Brianna’s mouth popped open, but she quickly managed to compose her face. It was not a question she anticipated being asked, especially not from someone she had recently been introduced to.
    “If you are requesting plain speaking, I’ll be happy to oblige.” She waited for his nod before continuing. “I’m sorry, my lord, but I don’t have any desire to marry a viscount.”
    “Ah, I see. You are hoping for a higher title, perhaps a marquis?” he asked, his tone insulting.
    “Please don’t be offended. I’m not insulting you or your designation. Viscount is a perfectly respectable title, and I know a great many ladies who would be happy for an introduction. I could point out several if you would like,” she replied, wishing to remove the conversation from herself.
    His steely grey eyes continued to watch her in a very calculating manner. She didn’t have any idea as to his purpose, and she shifted, uncomfortable under his gaze.
    “If