Bartered Bride. Anne HerriesЧитать онлайн книгу.
of a woman you have named a thief? You clearly have no respect for Papa or me. Release me from the contract and I will make certain Papa pays you every penny from the estate.’
‘No. Jilt me and you will be ruined, your father and sister with you.’
‘But why?’ Lottie was puzzled.
‘Because I need an heir. One woman is as good as another in the dark. Your father owes me and you chose to deceive me. You will keep your part of the bargain whether you wish it or not.’
Tears were stinging behind her eyes, but Lottie refused to let them fall.
‘Very well, sir. You can compel me to honour my father’s bargain—but you will have no joy of your despicable behaviour.’ She raised her head, looking him in the eyes. ‘I shall be everything your bride ought to be in public. I will give you the heir you desire, but in my heart I shall always hate you.’
‘I never expected you to love me. Why should you? Love is a myth and ever was. I dare say you will be content in your role as my marchioness—and I need an heir or two, perhaps, just to be certain. Do your duty and we shall go along well enough.’
‘Have it your own way, sir. You hold all the cards, it seems, but you may come to regret this…’ She walked past him and this time he let her go.
Chapter Four
‘I was sorry not to spend more time with you last evening,’ Lottie said when Henrietta came down to nuncheon. ‘I felt a little tired, as I told you, but this morning I am much better.’
‘Are you, my dear?’ Henrietta looked at her speculatively. ‘Well, we shall have them put chairs for us beneath the shade of the chestnut trees after nuncheon. We may sit and enjoy the pleasant weather for an hour and talk as much as we like.’
‘You mean the stand of trees to the right of the house?’ Henrietta nodded. ‘I went for a walk in the park early this morning. A poacher had been shot. I fear Lord Rothsay was not best pleased because I had the keeper bring him back to the house to be patched up and gave him food for his family. He says that the man deserves to be in prison.’
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