“Stand up, Beresford.”

The whispered words carried enough venom to paralyze him. It took him several heartbeats to recover. When he finally did, he glanced up to find Rosemont glaring at him with an intensity that sent a cold shiver of dread racing up his spine. “Why?”

“Because I never strike a man when he’s sitting.”

“And why would you want to do that, old chap?” Although he had the unsettling thought that he knew.

“To defend Miss Trewlove’s honor. I know you sought to take advantage of her, and I require satisfaction for my betrothed.”

“You’re going to marry her?”

“I am.”

Beresford glanced around. No smiles greeted him. Only somber faces and hard stares. He’d not been discreet enough with his plans. There was no hope for it. He was going to have to take his punishment like a man or lose the respect of his peers. Shoving back his chair, he stood and tugged on his waistcoat. “I’d appreciate it if you’d avoid the nose. I have a rather fine no—”

The blow hit it directly, causing blood to spurt and his eyes to water, and sent him staggering down to the floor. Scrambling for a linen, he finally located it in his pocket, pressed it to his nose, and glared at Rosemont. “I do hope you’re satisfied.”

“I am. I’ll send you an invitation to the wedding.”

The bugger probably would.

Chapter 27

The next afternoon, Fancy sat in Aslyn’s parlor watching as her hostess prepared yet another cup of tea for her—her third since her arrival. Matthew had been impatient to get her siblings’ blessings. Earlier they’d shared a midday meal with her mother and gained hers. But he’d understood the importance of acquiring everyone’s blessing. When they’d arrived at Mick’s office, missives had been sent out to the others. Matthew and Mick were together in his office now, although surely everyone else had arrived by now.

“Don’t look so nervous,” Aslyn said as she passed her the saucer and cup of tea. “I’m certain Lord Rosemont will receive a blessing to marry you from each of your siblings.”

“It doesn’t matter if he does or not. I’m going to marry him.”

Aslyn smiled. “Good for you.”

“I just don’t know what’s taking so long.”

“I’m sure they’re putting him through his paces.”

“The only thing of any consequence is that he loves me.”

“And you him.”

She smiled. “I do, Aslyn. So very much.”

“I’m going to assume Lord Beresford was not the first gentleman you might have spent time with, without benefit of a chaperone.”

She studied the elaborate rose pattern on the delicate china cup. “No.”

“Mick kissed me before we were married.”

She snapped up her head. “Oh, I knew that.” She arched a brow. “Possibly more than a kiss?”

“A lady never tells.”