Free Lady Beware by Jo Beverley Page A

about him to be sure.”
    Thea wondered if they were about to come to blows.
    But her mother said, “I’ve already set Mr. Thoresby to investigate.”
    â€œAh, then,” Maria said, relaxing.
    Thea relaxed, too. Her mother’s secretary was highly efficient and also protective of her good nature and generosity. He’d unearth all Darien’s sins.
    â€œHe won’t find anything to Darien’s discredit,” the duchess stated. “Cully idolizes him. Perhaps we should invite him to dine.”
    â€œCully?” Thea asked, confused.
    â€œDarien, dear. A carefully chosen list of guests. Bring him into contact with the right people, ones who’ll value his army achievements and have power to sway opinion. The duke will drop words of approval around the clubs. I hope Vandeimen will do the same, Maria?”
    â€œOf course, but don’t race ahead, Sarah. Wait for Mr. Thoresby’s report.”
    â€œOh, very well. I’m sure he’ll have a preliminary report in days.”
    Maria rose, pressing once at her prominent breasts. “I must return to Georgie.”
    â€œYou should have brought her,” the duchess said, rising to kiss her cheek. “I adore babies.”
    â€œI will next time,” Maria said and left.
    â€œSo lovely to see Maria happy. She never made a fuss, but her first husband was a sad disappointment, and not just in the matter of babies. Of course we worried about Vandeimen, but he has turned out excellently. As will Darien.” She turned an attentive eye on Thea. “You said you weren’t ready to settle on one of your suitors yet, dear?”
    â€œNo, Mama,” Thea said, heading off matchmaking on her behalf.
    â€œGood. Then you’ll be free to support Darien.” Thea’s expression must have been revealing. “What’s the matter, dear? Does he frighten you?”
    â€œNo. I mean, I don’t know. I’ve never even met him,” Thea lied.
    â€œReally? You seem to have such strong opinions. I assumed you encountered him last night.”
    â€œI encountered his reputation. Everywhere.”
    â€œWhat a strange mood you’re in today. Overtired, perhaps? All I’m asking is that you occasionally let Lord Darien give you his arm, perhaps sit by him and engage him in conversation. Partner him in a dance without looking as if you expected to be devoured. Is that too much to ask?”
    â€œNo,” Thea said. After all, she was supposed to be betrothed to the man. How had she ended up in this fix?
    â€œYou have such an excellent reputation for virtue and good sense that it will convince people immediately. Now, when?” The duchess opened her appointment book. “Almack’s tonight. No hope of getting Darien in there yet.”
    Yet? Thea wanted to laugh.
    â€œLady Wraybourne’s musicale on Thursday. Very select. That could be difficult….”
    â€œAnd you intend to wait for Mr. Thoresby’s report, Mama,” Thea reminded her.
    â€œI’m sure he’ll have something by then. We need to act speedily to turn the tide. Once people get fixed ideas they become difficult. Only minor commitments on Friday.” She made a firm note.
    Thea didn’t protest anymore. That gave her three days before she need meet the man again. Unless he brashly invaded, demanding his bride.
    She should try to meet him sooner and explain all the reasons why the betrothal was unnecessary, but she could no more seek him out than she would seek out the plague.

Chapter 10
    B y noon, Darien had settled to the never-ending paperwork, secure that Lady Theodosia hadn’t complained of his behavior. At least there would be no challenge. She was probably running in circles, however, trying to find a way out of her promise.
    He smiled at that. Oh, no, my lady. You are mine.
    Wicked to enjoy the thought, but if so, ledgers and accounts were his penance. This wasn’t work he’d