Read Online What a Reckless Rogue Needs by Vicky Dreiling - Free Book Online Page B

was in danger of losing what little he had of his mother.
    His hands fisted. There were things he needed to know, things that no one had ever spoken about since his mother’s death. He would not give up, no matter what, because she deserved more than to be forgotten. She deserved to be remembered.
      
    Colin made a point of walking alongside Angeline to church. His father had suggested they walk since the weather was clear. Colin slowed his pace so that he could speak to Angeline privately. “You will no doubt be delighted to know that my father refused,” he said.
    Angeline glanced at him. “Why?”
    “The same reason,” he said.
    “Do not give up,” she said. “We will think of some way to change his mind.”
    He wagged his brows. “You don’t happen to know any respectable single lady friends who might wish to wed me?”
    She’d not heard from any of her friends since her broken engagement, but she would not tell him that. “Do you think I would recommend a friend marry a notorious rake like you?”
    “Perhaps I could reform.”
    She snorted.
    Once they reached the church, both families filled the pews in the front, designated for the marquess, his family, and his illustrious friends. Colin would have preferred sitting in the last row of pews where he could close his eyes and nap through the sermon. Alas, he was out of luck and found himself jerking to attention after Angeline thrust her elbow into his side.
    He leaned closer to her and whispered, “I will exact revenge.”
    “You may try.” She regarded him with narrowed eyes. “I would not advise it if you wish me to assist you.”
    Why was his only hope of help coming from the shrew?
      
    After a nudging from the marchioness, the marquess invited Reverend Quimby and his wife to dine at Deerfield that evening. Colin escorted Angeline and sat between her and Mrs. Quimby. That lady continually tittered about her good fortune to be seated next to such a handsome gentleman as Lord Ravenshire. Angeline reminded herself not to roll her eyes, but it was difficult when Mrs. Quimby monopolized all of Colin’s attention. Meanwhile, Angeline was stuck making polite conversation with Reverend Quimby, who spoke at length and in minute detail about his plans for a spring garden. By the time the trifle arrived, Angeline was fighting the urge to yawn.
    At long last, the marchioness led the ladies to the drawing room while the gentlemen enjoyed their port. Angeline smiled when Bianca persuaded Penny to play a duet with her on the pianoforte while Bernadette turned the pages.
    Mrs. Quimby approached with clasped hands. “Lady Angeline, we have yet to have a coze. Shall we repair to the window seat?”
    “Of course.”
    After they were seated, Angeline turned to Mrs. Quimby. “I understand you are new to the neighborhood. I assume Mr. Quimby came into the living recently.”
    “Yes, we have been here only three months,” she said. “We were in Hampshire previously. Mr. Quimby’s second cousin has a lovely property there. Are you acquainted with Baron Overton?”
    Clearly Mrs. Quimby wished to brag about her connections. “No, I am not,” Angeline said, tapping the toe of her slipper.
    “Harwell is a very fine property, indeed,” Mrs. Quimby continued. “In fact, I just had a letter from Lady Overton this week.”
    Now would be a good time to excuse herself, but when she attempted to speak, Mrs. Quimby interrupted her. “There is another property near Harwell, though not as grand. Do you know Woodham Hall?”
    “No, I do not.” The woman’s conversation was boring in the extreme.
    “A young man has inherited the property. Lady Overton said he is quite handsome or so I have heard. Oh, dear, his name is escaping me. How could I forget?”
    “There is no need to fret,” Angeline said. “I’m sure it will come to you.”
    The marchioness hurried to the window seat. “Angeline, will you play for us?”
    “Of course.” She would do anything to escape