Read Online The Earl's Inconvenient Wife (Regency Collection Book 1) by Ruth Ann Nordin - Free Book Online Page A

in the lady maid’s direction, she tried to speak but realized her throat was as dry as cotton.
    “Here.  Let me help.” Marion helped her sit up in the bed and handed her the cup of tea.  “This will ease the pain in your head.  I made it myself with my herbs.”
    Claire nodded her thanks and sipped it.  After another few sips, she realized she could finally speak and said, “I feel awful.”
    She let out a sympathetic chuckle.  “When I came in, the decanter was gone and he left you something for a headache, so I assume your husband took the decanter when he left.”
    Probably.  Claire took another drink, soothed by the warm liquid.  “I don’t remember anything.”
    “He must have been in here if the decanter’s gone.”
    “Yes, he was.  I remember he was here, but I don’t remember—” she shrugged—“being in bed with him.”
    “Not every lady can say she’s had a memorable wedding night.  At least it’s over and you don’t have to worry about the discomfort of the first time anymore.”
    Yes, that was true .  She could now relax and enjoy it as Marion said.
    Marion walked over to the wardrobe and opened the door.  “What would you like to wear today?”
    Thankful Marion kept her voice low so she didn’t aggravate her headache, Claire looked at the clothes she’d taken from home.  Her father had taken pride in the fact that he could afford the finer dresses, sure that they would suit his daughters when they married.  While she had to admit they were lovely, she wondered if it was worth being married to a gentleman who thought she’d tricked him into marriage.
    Their strained dinner didn’t give her any hope to think she’d ever be anything but someone to give him an heir.  She should probably just be grateful he’d been gentle with her last night so she wasn’t sore this morning.
    Realizing Marion waited for her response, Claire cleared her throat and said, “I’d like the purple dress today.”
    Marion retrieved it and draped it on a chair by the screen.  “Is there anything you’d like to do today, my lady?”
    Claire sighed and studied the tea in her cup.  “I don’t suppose Lord Roderick wants to see me?” Not that she had any idea what she’d say to him if she saw him.  It just seemed after they’d been intimate, it was only fitting that they do something together today.
    “I saw Lord Roderick leave right before I came up here.”
    “Oh.”
    Claire admonished herself for being disappointed.  Their wedding had been a disaster, she’d argued with him when they got here, she hadn’t said anything to him at dinner, and she had to get drunk to consummate the marriage.  What else could she expect?
    “Should I get word to your sister that you’d like to spe nd the day with her?”
    Claire looked up from her cup and nodded.  “Yes.”
    “Then I’ll do that after you dress for your morning meal.”
    While Marion finished getting her things ready for the day, Claire drank the rest of the tea, her head feeling a bit better before she got out of bed.  Marion helped her dress and decorated her hair with ribbons and pearls.
    “I don’t see what the fuss is all about,” Claire said as she studied her reflection in the mirror.  It wasn’t like her husband would be there to see her.
    “You’re a countess now.  You should look your best.” Marion patted her shoulder.  “Besides, you’re beautiful.  Why hide it?”
    Claire smiled at her.  “You’ve always been good to me.”
    “I think of you as a daughter.” She picked up her jewelry and slipped them on her.  “How do you feel?” she asked as she clasped the necklace on.
    It took Claire a moment to realize Marion meant her head.  “Oh, I feel better.  There’s a slight ache, but it’s manageable.”
    “Good.  I’m glad the old remedy worked.  Do you feel like eating downstairs or should I bring something up here?”
    Claire stood up.  “I’ll go downstairs.”
    Marion nodded and turned