Free The Wedding Deception by Adrienne Basso

truth?
    - Aunt Agnes knows that I married Lord Fairhurst. - Her voice was firm, but his eyes were somber. - Is it sufficient to present him as lord Fairhurst. She will be pleased. I should warn you that it will make indiscreet questions, as the state of his finances and his political convictions.
    - Survive.
    - Prepare yourself, my lord. She is an opponent, though. Despite their age, Aunt Agnes is very clever. - Claire frowned. - Finally, think it could be less formal?
    - How so?
    - I am very romantic, and everyone back home make jokes about it. The story of my relationship with Jay lightning is a subject much talked about in our little community. Aunt Agnes heard all the details, which were more exaggerated. If you keep behaving in ways their boring, she'll never believe us.
    Jasper gave him an indignant look. What audacity to accuse him of being boring! He was deliberate and controlled, always the perfect gentleman. Never would a loving husband, even in front of other people!
    The sound of a mild cough prevented him from responding to the task. Looking over his shoulder, saw the steward standing at the door.
    - Mrs. Agnes Humphrey - he announced.
    Aunt Agnes came with a thoughtful look at the elegance of the room. She was short, robust, and was dressed all in black. His features were striking features, keeping the beauty of youth. Jasper stood up and straightened his shoulders, but soon took a more casual attitude.
    - Aunt Agnes, good to see you. - Claire's aunt kissed cheeks, and turned to Jasper. - Can I have the pleasure of presenting it to Lord Fairhurst?
    Agnes bowed his head slightly in return for the fulfillment of Jasper, then faced him.
    - I waited too long to meet you, kid.
    - I have heard a lot about, milady - Jasper responded with kindness. Aunt Claire led to a chair and sat down beside her. Jasper stood with one arm resting on the frame of the fireplace, assessing the situation. Agnes looked at him fixedly, as if to penetrate the deepest point of his soul. Kind words and good manners would not be sufficient to give a good impression. Jasper was not easily discouraged. Almost with resignation, set out to be absolutely charming. Asked about the trip, over time, health, the favorite topic of the elderly. Agnes replied in a tone of complacency, as if those trivia questions that bothered her. And, as if expecting him to feel honored to be asked by her, said:
    - I certainly hope that proves to be a gentleman worthy of the hand of my greatniece. I'm not impressed with your procedure to this point, but I'll give you a chance to redeem himself.
    Jasper pursed his lips. Her words express exactly what he would say to his brother, if given the chance. Went to look for Aunt Agnes with new respect.
    - Claire is really a jewel, my lady. I promise to commit myself to constantly improve and be worthy of her niece.
    Claire raised an eyebrow, surprised by the statement. Still dazed, he pulled the bellrope. A servant answered and she gave orders that the tea was served. Minutes later, the boy put the tea tray on the coffee table, and so he turned away, Agnes insisted:
    - I believe that husband and wife should live together, Lord Fairhurst. Jasper grinned.
    - Generally, this is how the couples live.
    - It will be well with you?
    - We'll see - Claire intervened, taking the platter of cookies and extending it to the aunt. - Try an oatmeal cookie. They are delicious.
    Agnes took the biscuit, but left it untouched in the saucer. His gaze focused Jasper again.
    - I wonder why he traveled to Wiltshire to find a bride. The girls from London does not appeal to him, my lord?
    Jasper felt a chill. Could she have heard comments about his marriage to Rebecca?
    Agnes did not attend the same social circles as him, but juicy stories always came to every corner of the city. On the other hand, if he had heard any comment about it, it would have faced when they arrived.
    - I did not travel to Wiltshire in search of a bride, but came back with one. -