How To Kiss A Rogue by Amanda Mariel

Author:Amanda Mariel
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Publisher: 0
Published: 2016-10-31T22:00:00+00:00

Chapter 8

“Lord Maddox should have arrived by now.” Father paced across the room between where Mother, Natalie, and Bradford stood by the fire. The Marquis and Marchioness of Bowmont stood by the floor to ceiling window in the family’s private parlor.

The storm raged on the other side of the glass—but, surprisingly, her father was more worried over Maddox absence than the earls own parents were.

Natalie secretly hoped the earl would never made an appearance. How could she marry him after what she and Christian had shared? His kiss seared her soul, imprinted on her in a way she would never forget. Somehow, someway, she had to get out of this betrothal. There was no possibility any man could make her heart race like Christian had—did, every time they were near.

“I assure you, Your Grace, it is not at all like my son to forgo his responsibilities.” The Marquis smoothed his cravat, the nervous reflex telling Natalie all she needed to know about Maddox.

Though they would not likely verbalize their fears, his parents were unsure he’d arrive at all. Did the earl know he was to be betrothed to her? Maybe he sought to avoid the union as well—if so, that would align them on the same path.

The Marchioness snapped her fan closed. “Something has happened to keep him away.” She turned toward the window, her eyes belying her feigned concern. “I do hope the storm is not to blame.”

Natalie closed her eyes and prayed it was not the storm to blame, for if it was, he would eventually arrive and she would have no recourse. Please, let his absence be intentional. If he did not wish for their union either, than there would be some hope of avoiding the betrothal.

“Perhaps we should search for him?” Mother turned to Father, her earbobs catching the light from the fire and casting sparkles across the far wall.

“The storm shows no signs of letting up. If we venture into it, we will be placing ourselves in danger,” Bradford argued.

“Lucas should have arrived by now. We cannot leave him out there…wherever he is. What if he has been hurt?” Marchioness Bowmont grabbed her husband’s arm. “Someone should be sent to collect him—bring him here where he belongs.”

Like a wayward child, Natalie sensed the Marchioness longed to add.

“Do not fret, my dear. I will go.” The Marquis patted her hand. “Lucas is likely seeking shelter nearby. I will find him.”

“The storm has made the roads impassable.” Bradford strolled to peek out the window. “This is a fool’s errand.”

“Nonsense. I will have my carriage readied.” Father turned his attention to Natalie. “You will accompany us and Bradford will remain here in case Maddox arrives.”

Natalie clenched her hands into fists. The last thing she wanted to do was go out into the elements in order to search for a man whose acquaintance she did not wish to make. “Would Bradford not be of more help?”

“Fetch your cloak and meet us in the foyer. It is only proper that you attend your—the earl.

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