Read Online The Earl's Stolen Bride (Marriage by Deceit Book 4) by Ruth Ann Nordin - Free Book Online Page B

so we could do it.  Thanks to you, Alexander is doing much better.  He’s always been such a sickly child from his birth when he almost died.  Because of your sacrifice, we can give him the best care.”
    “I want Alexander to continue doing well.”
    “I know you do.”
    “Are you worried Orlando won’t help with Alexander if more money is needed?” Chloe asked.
    “No, that isn’t what worries me.  Your first husband was generous enough to give us enough money to cover Alexander’s expenses for the rest of his life.”
    Chloe felt as if a huge weight had been lifted off her shoulders.  Good.  At least she didn’t have to worry about that.
    “I’m glad Alexander will be all right,” Chloe said.
    “He will be as long as we’re careful.”
    Noting the worried tone in her mother’s voice, Chloe frowned.  “But I thought you had everything arranged with Dr. Harvey.”
    “I do.  Your father and I did everything we could to protect your brother’s health and well-being.”
    “I don’t understand.  Why do you sound hesitant?”
    “I don’t want to place any undue burden on you, my dear, but Dr. Harvey is a gentleman who only sees the most influential families.  Your marriage to Lord Hawkins allowed us to be in that small group because of Dr. Harvey’s friendship with him.”
    Chloe swallowed and forced herself to nod.  Something bad was coming.  She could feel it.  This was the thing she dreaded when she saw her parents’ carriage as she and Orlando came back from their swim.  Clenching her hands together, she made herself ask, “What is it, Mother?” in the calmest voice she could muster.
    “There’s no denying your marrying Lord Reddington so quickly after Lord Hawkins’ death has put us in a precarious situation.  Fortunately, the matter has been kept secret in London.  The Ton isn’t aware of what’s happened.  Your brothers and sisters don’t even know.  Your father and I found out when we went to the Duchess of Ashbourne about your whereabouts.
    “As it turns out, Lady Davenport was visiting the duchess when I went to inquire about you.  Lady Davenport spoke with me in private and explained how you left with Lord Reddington.  That’s how I found out.  But your father and I were quick to tell everyone you were so bereaved by Lord Hawkins’ death, you had to take solace in our cottage in the country.  So you needn’t worry about a scandal.
    “In light of the situation with your brother and Dr. Harvey, I think it’s best we avoid a scandal,” her mother finished.  “Don’t you agree?”
    “Well, I assumed there’d be a scandal, which is why Orlando and I thought it best to stay here until next Season.”
    “That’s the beauty of it.” Her mother smiled and put her hand on Chloe’s shoulder.  “You don’t have to worry about a scandal.  Everything is all right.  You are still a respectable lady.  Your reputation is saved, and because of that, Dr. Harvey will continue to help Alexander.” She released her shoulder.  “Fortunately, Lady Davenport knows how to keep things to herself.  As for servants, they can be paid to keep quiet.”
    Chloe sensed there was something her mother wanted, and as much as she hated to ask what it was, she didn’t think she had a choice.  This conversation was playing out exactly the way her mother wanted it, just like every other conversation they’d had before.
    And so, it was with great reluctance, Chloe asked, “What do you want me to do, Mother?”
    “The Season isn’t over yet.  People have been wishing to come by to console you after the death of your dear husband.  I think it’d be nice if you let them.”
    “But I’m married to Orlando now, and besides, I’m not sorry Lord Hawkins is dead.”
    “I understand, and I accept that, dear,” her mother said.  “You will hear no complaints from me on those two things.  You and Lord Reddington have my approval.”
    “But…?”
    “But…some people will