“I’m not sure, but soon. His lordship said you would require a wardrobe for the Marriage Mart.”

Halfway to the dressing table, Fiona stopped. If the earl thought she was a biddable young lady eager for the marital yoke, he was going to be quite shocked.

Fiona would try not to be amused.

Chapter 2

Tobias climbed the stairs of the Phoenix Club with more speed than usual. Was he eager to join his friends in the members’ den or running from his obligations at home?

Both.

As soon as he entered the spacious room that occupied more than half of the first floor, he was greeted by Ruark Hannigan, the Earl of Wexford. Tall with a wiry frame, Wexford was an excellent pugilist with a slightly crooked nose from having it broken more than once. With his black hair, blue eyes, and devilish smile, he was extremely popular with the ladies. As far as his Irishness allowed, that was. He was acceptable enough to flirt with, but an English earl was preferable to an Irish one.

“Overton, I wondered if you might not join us this evening because the arrival of your ward wore you out.”

“I know you are in jest, but it was a distinct possibility. She is full of enthusiasm.” She’d bombarded him with questions at dinner, mostly about things to see and do in London. The poor chit had been horribly isolated in the country. He’d agreed to escort her to the British Museum on Monday.

Tobias followed Wexford to the back corner of the room. A window nearby overlooked the spectacular garden below where lanterns flickered and a rectangular pool with a statue of Aphrodite in the center reflected the light. One of the six chairs at the round table was already occupied by Dougal McNair, another of their friends.

Dark-haired MacNair was a pugilist like Wexford, but his shoulders were broader and his nose still straight. He greeted Tobias and signaled to a footman to bring drinks for the new arrivals.

“Evening, MacNair.” Tobias dropped into one of the leather-cushioned chairs next to the Scotsman.

Wexford took the other chair beside Tobias. “Tell us about the ward. Am I going to want to change my marriage plans?” He grinned, for he’d been clear about not taking a wife until he reached the age of thirty. Which meant he had a good three years left.

Tobias narrowed one eye at him. “Could I tell you anything that would do that?”

“No.” Wexford laughed. “But tell us about her anyway.”

The footman arrived with a decanter of brandy and two glasses, which he promptly filled before departing. MacNair already had one that was half full.

Lifting his glass, Tobias took an eager sip. The activity in his house had been a tad overwhelming, particularly since he’d only just raced home right before his ward’s arrival. An uncomfortable quiet had settled over the household following his father’s death, but Miss Wingate’s presence had completely changed the atmosphere.