Free The Bride of Devil's Acre by Jennifer Kohout Page B

explanation—one that would make sense to a woman raised in a society that traded its daughters like chattel and regarded marriage as a business arrangement. “I need a wife, and as I understand it, you need a husband. Marriage would go a long way toward repairing your reputation.”
    Jacqueline paled, her cheeks growing cold as the blood drained from her face.
    “I’ve heard the rumors,” Devil said, not unkindly. “And I admit to seeing an opportunity. The Edwards’ name has a long history, and it seems to me we could both benefit from an alliance.”
    “I…I…” Jacqueline swallowed past the sudden lump in her throat. Marriage? To this man? “I’m sorry, but I can’t marry you.”  
    Jacqueline’s refusal was automatic, and instinctual. Devil was unlike any man she had ever met. Five minutes in the man’s presence was enough for her to know that he was far beyond her ken. He didn’t just live in a different world, one driven by desire. He ruled it.
    “I understand this is a surprise, and I apologize, but I saw no better way to approach the topic.” He had expected as much, and if the woman chose to deny him, so be it. But his conscience demanded he make a valid attempt to right the wrong done to the young lady, which meant convincing her to give his proposal fair consideration. “It is a lot to consider, and I do not require an immediate answer. But I hope you will give the matter some thought.”  
    “I don’t believe time to think will change my mind.” Jacqueline’s mind was reeling with all the reasons she couldn’t marry this man. “Despite our obvious differences, I’m afraid I would be of little use to you. If you’ve heard the rumors, then you know my reputation is ruined. I am no longer welcome in polite society.”
    “Marriage would change that.”
    “Marriage to you?”  
    Devil’s eyes narrowed. Was that scorn he heard in her voice?
    “I apologize,” Jacqueline said, realizing her misstep. “I meant no offense, but while any marriage would be considered preferable to my current situation, I do not think marriage to you would go as far as you think.”
    She was right. Devil wasn’t welcome any more than she was. The difference was, he didn’t care. He knew the ton for the hypocrites they were, with their double set of standards—one for them and one for everyone else. Those same men and women who rejected him and ostracized Lady Edwards were the same ones that could be found spending their nights at Purgatory.
    “I will grant you that marriage to me will never see you reach the same level of social acceptance you once had, but tell me, have you had a better offer?”
    Jacqueline stiffened, and Henry's words rang in her ears. No, there had been no other offers, nor would there be.  
    “I cannot give you everything you have lost, but I can offer you some semblance of a life.” Devil spoke plainly. “I am a wealthy man, and people respect me. I can offer you a comfortable life, one free from dictates and judgments. It is worth considering.”
    Jacqueline watched Devil rise.
    “You have my card. Take some time, and give it some thought.” Devil replaced his hat. Bowing to Lady Edwards, he saw himself out, the butler closing the door behind him with a firm hand.

    Marriage. Not just marriage, but marriage to the devil.  
    Jacqueline pushed her food around her plate. Her father sat next to her, neither one of them eating. Her father had arrived home that evening, ignoring the meal and instead calling for his customary bottle of brandy.  
    Jacqueline didn’t have it in her to object, or care.  
    She’d spent the afternoon replaying her discussion with Devil, listing out every reason she couldn’t marry him. It was a long list.
    Devil was everything she’d been raised to avoid. He was the epitome of unacceptable, defying every convention she’d come to expect in a husband.
    His background was common knowledge. The bastard son of a whore, it was said he owned the