“Damned if I want a woman whose only interest lies in the titles a man holds,” he growled.

God’s blood. He was a bloody marquess. The title was thrown into his lap simply because a man died and decreed it so. The same heartless man who’d married Eleanor Rose in secret before hiding her away in shame until she bore him a son. It was all too fantastical to believe.

Now, there were no obstacles standing in his way when it came to Celia Buchanan. If he wanted her, he could claim her. Indeed, her parents would likely present her on a silver platter for the taking.

And Celia would hate him forever if the choice of a husband was not her own.

“I know your life has suddenly been turned upside down,” Sebastian murmured. “And your future is now something you must plot out. I will assist in any way I can, Gabriel, and your friends will be at your side as well.”

“I have no idea how I am to operate in such a world, Seb. I’ve spent my life in the shadows. I’m the man others do not acknowledge unless necessary. The thought of losing my anonymity, being recognized as a marquess. It may be too heavy a burden for a man like myself.”

“You will know what to do. I will help you every step of the way. Along with Richeforte and Bentley.”

Gabriel’s throat clenched when he thought of the surprising path he’d been tossed upon. He was having trouble accepting the idea. How would Celia take this shocking news? Would she distance herself from him? Or become one of the vapid, empty-headed, marriage-minded ladies crowding London’s ballrooms?

“I must speak with Lady Celia.” Gabriel downed the remaining whiskey and set the glass down on Sebastian’s desk. He could not discount the sense of urgency he suddenly experienced. Suddenly, it was all he could think about. Seeing her and her reaction to this incredible news.

“You will seek her out sooner rather than later?”

Gabriel allowed himself a small smile. “I shall do so this very instant. And hope she’ll listen as I try explaining things. The lady was rather perturbed when I left her in the library, so my chances with her are far from ideal.”

Sebastian’s head cocked. “Does this mean you will accept the marquessate?”

“I will consider it. But I can make no promises on a final decision. Yet.”

Gabriel searched for Celia for over an hour. Whispers hung in the air behind him as he moved through Beaumont’s various rooms in his hunt. No one knew Celia’s whereabouts, but rumors were rife concerning Heath Banbury’s unexpected appearance and what it meant.

He ignored all questions until he came across Ivy.

The young countess already knew the surprising turn of events. Taking Gabriel’s arm, she guided him outside the Blue Drawing room where several games of whist were taking place. A small measure of privacy existed in the corridor, even with guests coming and going and servants bustling about.