Free Love's Peril (Lord Trent Series) by Cheryl Holt

mentioned, but he was growing impatient.
    “My feelings haven’t changed, Sheldon. I wish you’d go to town and interview other candidates. There are so many ladies who would be delighted by your interest. I can’t decide, and it’s unfair for you to have to wait on me.”
    “You know I hate London, and at my age, I’m not about to run around, trying to charm some girl whose family I’ve never met. You and I are well-suited. I’m accustomed to you, and there would be no surprises.”
    “No, there wouldn’t be,”which was the main problem.
    She really and truly suspected—if she wed him—she’d die of boredom, but she couldn’t get him to shift his attention. He expected his constant visits to generate enthusiasm, but with his intractability and her equivocation, each discussion was more unpleasant.
    Motion out on the verandah distracted her, and she glanced out to see Mr. Hook lazily balanced on the balustrade. Mr. Sinclair walked up to him, and they whispered like conspirators, their heads close so they wouldn’t be overheard.
    It was dark outside, a few lamps burning in the garden. The dim light glinted off his blond hair, shrouding him in a golden halo so he was even more striking.
    Since he’d sneaked into her bedchamber the previous evening, she hadn’t been able to think of anything but him. She was awhirl with memories: how he’d smelled, how he’d felt when he took her in his arms and kissed her.
    She shouldn’t have let him, but where he was concerned, she was overly attracted and couldn’t behave. Like a besotted girl, she’d spent the day trying to cross paths with him, but he’d been conspicuously absent. He’d said he was leaving soon, and she couldn’t imagine him going without her furthering their acquaintance.
    He appeared to want something from her, but she appeared to want something from him, too. What was it? Flattery? A bone of kindness thrown her way? A few compliments?
    He was virile and magnificent, and observing him—while sitting with Sheldon and enduring another tedious chat—was almost painful. Yet it was beneficial, too. It solidified her decision. She’d hold out. She’d marry for love and affection, or she wouldn’t marry at all.
    Mr. Sinclair whispered a final comment to Mr. Hook, then strolled away, and Sarah rose from her seat, as if hypnotized, as if she’d abandon Sheldon to chase after Mr. Sinclair.
    “Honestly, Sarah,”Sheldon snapped, “have you listened to a word I’ve said?”
    “I apologize, Sheldon. I’m not myself tonight. Would you like to”—she paused, struggling to devise a means of passing the time before she lost her mind—“would you like to climb to the overlook? The moon is up. The view is probably spectacular. We can take the telescope and see if there are any ships sailing by.”
    He pursed his lips, his mustache quivering. “You’re aware of the trouble I have with my knees. I can’t manage the trail.”
    “Yes, of course. I shouldn’t have suggested it. How about a game of cards?”
    She was saved by Caroline rushing in. Her friend was agitated, her color high, her cheeks flushed bright red.
    “Sarah, there you are! I’ve been searching everywhere.” She frowned at Sheldon. “Sheldon, I’m sorry, but I have to speak with Sarah. Alone.”
    “What is it?”Sarah asked.
    “Can you come?” Caroline gestured to the hall, her eyes flashing an urgent message.
    “Sheldon, would you excuse me? I’ll be right back.”
    “I don’t think you will be, Sarah,”Caroline warned.
    Sarah sighed. Mildred had invited Sheldon to supper, then had vanished immediately after the meal. So she wasn’t available to entertain him.
    “I’ll hurry,”she told him.
    “Don’t bother.” His aggravation was clear. “Caroline has her petticoat in a wad. I’m sure it will require hours and hours to get it unraveled.”
    “Sheldon…” Sarah extended a hand in supplication, but he didn’t take it.
    He pushed himself to his feet. “I