As Lord Kelly watched the wedding of his brother, Henry Spencer, he felt a kind of joy in his heart that he’d never felt before and a new longing. It was the first time that it dawned on Lord Kelly that he was ready to be wed. Seeing Sarah’s beauty and the happiness on his brother’s face had done something to Lord Kelly that he couldn’t quite describe.

“I am happy, son,” the Duke of Glastonbury said, giving Lord Kelly a pat on the back.

“As am I. I think that there is a new lightness in mother’s heart.” Indeed, Lord Kelly looked across the breakfast table at his mother, who seemed to be beaming with pride. She sat beside Sarah, who was also beaming.

Seeing the joy on his brother’s face, Lord Kelly knew that was exactly what joy would look like on his own face. He was more determined than ever to feel that for himself.

Lord Kelly moved his eyes from his mother and scanned the wedding breakfast table. There were a number of lovely ladies in attendance. His eyes met Lisbeth Crawford, Sarah’s sister, and she turned away. Lisbeth was a beautiful girl but far too young and inexperienced. With all that Lord Kelly had seen and done in the world, he craved a woman that had substance and was closer in years to himself.

Once the wedding breakfast had concluded, the guests went to the front of the estate to see the couple off on their honeymoon to London. Sarah looked remarkable in her travelling gown, and Henry was dashing in his suit—borrowed from Lord Kelly. Despite the fact that Lord Kelly would still inherit the title of the Duke of Glastonbury, his brother experienced more joy at that moment than Lord Kelly had ever known.

Just before the decorated carriage was about to depart, Lord Kelly’s enthusiasm provoked him to step forward and speak to his brother through the window.

“Henry,” he said. “Once you return from your honeymoon, we have business matters to attend to.”

Henry knitted his brow in confusion. “Whatever do you mean?”

“Financially—I want to ensure that you’re comfortable.”

Henry smiled in recognition. “Very well,” he said before the carriage sped off.

What Lord Kelly didn’t express was that he was going to make his brother a rich man. Even though he would not become the duke, Lord Kelly wished Henry to have all the comforts that he did so that he and his new bride could create a large family if they chose.

Lord Kelly felt pride swell in his chest at the very thought of it. Yes, he and his brother would become renowned throughout Wales and in London. Lord Kelly was determined.

But as he watched the carriage speed away, Lord Kelly had to ponder why it was that he thought money and prestige were the keys to happiness for so long. Perhaps that was why he’d never been focused on marriage—to his mother’s chagrin. But now, his priorities were just beginning to shift in his mind.

Returning to the estate with the other guests, the party would not cease in the married couple’s absence. There’d be a grand tea at four, a large supper at nine, then more drinking and carousing after that. Although it was far too much food and drink for Lord Kelly’s liking, it was custom for a marriage to provoke such intemperance.

What was most important of all was the joy that he beheld on his mother’s face. The son that she took for dead magically reappeared in her life, and what’s more, he was married within days. Yes, Lord Kelly would put that same look of joy on her visage come his own marriage. He just needed to find the girl …

“Lord Kelly,” a lady’s voice said, and he turned to find Lady Abigail Joy.

“Lady Abigail,” he said with a bow of his head.

“Such a marvellous wedding, would you agree?” She fluttered her lashes as she spoke.

“Yes, I would agree.”

“Such heartfelt love. I know that cupid is somewhere in the sky, having dispatched his arrow from his little bow.”

An overwhelming feeling of needing to flee took over Lord Kelly. Yes, that was one of the things that always stood in the way of him selecting a bride. So many of the girls that approached him were too saccharin for words. Did they put on that mask in order to seem more feminine and lovely? Surely, the ladies had to know that it had the opposite effect.

He finally replied to Lady Abigail Joy a little flatly. “Yes … it must be cupid.”

“I knew that we shared the same sentiment.” She pumped her fan in front of her face demurely.

“If you’ll excuse me,” Lord Kelly said, unable to bear the unwarranted flirtation much longer. “I wish to speak with my mother.”

Lady Abigail Joy frowned to herself. “If you must,” she said, tipping her nose in the air.

Lord Kelly fled, feeling a great deal of relief. Why was it that women always treated him so? He’d been told that he was handsome, with his dark chocolate hair and piercing blue eyes, but Lord Kelly felt like a common sort of fellow. He focused on business matters, sport, fine cuisine. He never considered much the effect that he had upon women.

The long day of celebration came to a close, and Lord Kelly was grateful for it. Exhausted, he allowed his valet to assist with removing his coat, boots, and cravat. Nestling himself into his warm bed, Lord Kelly stared up at the ceiling with his hands clasped behind his neck. His broad shoulders splayed out and bare chest exposed, Lord Kelly had to wonder what it would be like to have a warm female body curled up beside him.

***

In the weeks that followed, the Spencers heard word of the remarkable time that Henry and Sarah had in London and how they’d be returning to the estate in two days’ time. Lord Kelly smiled to himself.

Seated at the breakfast table, the duchess read a letter aloud from her son. Apparently, he and Sarah had gone to Almack’s several nights, attended many museums and salons, got a box at the opera, and even managed to walk through several prominent gardens. Lord Kelly thought the honeymoon sounded utterly delightful. Sarah seemed to relish in the same cultural treasures that Lord Kelly did. That was the kind of woman he wished to marry.

Lord Kelly waited out the next two days in anticipation. He’d spend much time in his study preparing the business affairs that his brother would inherit. He would also spend a great deal of time seated in the gazebo where the marriage had taken place, reading books about travel and philosophy.

When the anticipated day finally arrived, Henry and Sarah came into the estate looking even happier than they had when they left—which seemed impossible.

“Mother,” Henry said, embracing the duchess warmly. Then he turned to the duke. “Father.” The two men shook hands heartily. Finally, he turned to Lord Kelly, and the two brothers embraced one another, both anticipating focusing on Henry Spencer’s future.

Lord Kelly kissed the back of Sarah’s hand, and she beamed. “We had the most extraordinary time,” she said. “You wouldn’t believe all of the sights that we’ve seen.”

“Oh, I believe it,” Lord Kelly replied. “And I hope you won’t mind if, in the days and weeks to come, I usurp your husband in order to focus on business.”

Sarah lifted her brow. “I was expecting as much. But that’s quite all right because it gives me more time to spend with the duchess.”

“You’re a remarkable woman,” Lord Kelly said in admiration.

“Step back, brother,” Henry replied humorously. “She’s already married.” He placed his hand around Sarah’s waist and held her tight.

Lord Kelly smiled to himself. “Let us begin, brother.”

“Very well.” Henry kissed his wife on the cheek before departing.

Once both of them were comfortably seated in the study, Lord Kelly got right down to business.

“Brother, what you perhaps don’t know about me is that I have some acumen when it comes to business affairs. From my understanding, Sarah would like to be housed in London, and that is certainly something that I can arrange. You see, I’m several years ahead of you in terms of accruing my fortune. I want to help you to catch up.”

“That is remarkably generous, brother.”

“You did not have the same opportunities as myself.”

“If you can truly help me,” Henry said, his eyes filled with gratitude. “I shall have you to thank for the rest of my days. I was prepared to offer Sarah a humble life, even though I knew that was below her breeding. But if I can offer her something so much more, I’d feel no small measure of pride in my breast.”

Lord Kelly smiled in anticipation. “That’s precisely what I intend. I don’t want you to worry about funds for the rest of your days. And that’s exactly what I can provide for you.”

Henry had wonderment in his eyes. “Never in my life did I imagine it would come to this. I assumed that I’d live out the rest of my days, fixing buildings and ditches.” Henry smiled. “That was the fate of Patrick Day.”

“The fate of Lord Henry Spencer will be quite different.”

They spent the better part of the afternoon in that same place, taking tea at the same desk, while Lord Kelly taught Henry everything that he needed to know to be a success. Those business prospects combined with the income that Henry would receive from the Spencer estate would set him up properly.

In the days that followed, it was much the same. Learning, sending out correspondences, creating meetings for Henry in London. Once all these matters were established, Henry was able to use the funds from the Spencer estate to secure himself a townhome in London—one that had recently been relinquished by a viscount—and Henry and Sarah were ready to begin their new lives.

Upon dinner the evening before they were to return to London, Sarah expressed her sincerest gratitude. “Lord Kelly, my brother, I can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done. I feel as though my dreams are coming true.” She turned to Henry. “A remarkable husband and being able to live in the city that I love most.”

“That was my only goal,” Lord Kelly said, bowing his head. “And the only caveat to all of this is that you’ll be forced to receive me as a guest.”

“Brother,” Henry said, “I sincerely hope that you will come as often as you choose. There will be a room appointed for you.”

Lord Kelly smiled warmly. “Most kind.”

Henry gazed at him intently. “No, what you have done has been most kind.”

“I’m overwhelmed with joy!” the duchess said, bringing a hand to her heart. “In fact, I never knew that I could feel such joy.”

“Mother, I wish you to visit London, as well.” Henry lifted his glass.

“From time to time,” the duchess replied. “But I prefer the beauty of Wales above all else. I’ve never been one for the city.”

“Oh, but there’s so much that you’re missing out on,” Sarah said, leaning in. “Such culture and life.”

“I suppose that I’ll have to broaden my horizons,” the duchess replied, cocking her head to the side.

“A toast.” Now the Duke of Glastonbury raised his glass. “To my remarkable family. May they expand and grow.”

They all lifted their glasses in the air, and as Lord Kelly did so, he thought of nothing but his future plans to take a bride and fulfill the Spencer family name.

Upon getting up from the breakfast table, Henry instantly approached and embraced his brother. “I wish you to come to London with us at once.”

“Preposterous,” Lord Kelly replied. “I’m sure you wish for your privacy as you settle in.”

“It’s for another reason.” Henry looked about mischievously. “There’s a lady that I want you to meet.”

“Come, come. Surely you’re not in the matchmaking business, as well.”

“Her name is Lady Lily Monroe. Daughter of an earl. We attended a salon where she was present, and I thought of you instantly. She’s beautiful, well-educated, and has quite the mysterious identity.” Henry raised his brow.

Lord Kelly’s lips broke out into a smile. “Whatever do you mean?”

“You’ll have to come to London to find out. Will you agree? I promise that it will be worth your effort and time.”

Lord Kelly stood frozen. He instantly trusted Henry’s taste in women, merely from looking at Sarah, but to leave for London at once seemed a bit hasty. Still, with the Spencer family’s good fortune of late, Lord Kelly felt in need of an adventure, and perhaps a trip to London would fulfill that need.

“I will come.”

“Truly?” Henry asked in disbelief.

“Indeed.”

“Pack your bags, brother.”

Lord Kelly and his valet made preparations that very evening, as Henry and Sarah wished to leave in the morning. Lord Kelly didn’t pack much, as he didn’t assume he’d be in town for long, and what’s more, it was his sincerest hope to purchase some new suits while in London.

The following morning came upon him quickly, and Lord Kelly met Henry and Sarah outside, this time, himself getting into the carriage with them. The duke and duchess stood outside and waved goodbye with all the estate’s footmen in one esteemed line.

Lord Kelly couldn’t help smiling. He greatly anticipated the adventure ahead. As Sarah spoke, there was a twinkle in her eyes. “It was my idea to introduce you to Lady Lily Monroe. I was so happy when Henry approved.”

“I thank you, but that is not the sole reason why I’m travelling to London. I need a change of scenery and a bit of culture, just as you explained.”

“Still, share a few words with the lady and watch as you’re bewitched,” Sarah said humorously.

Lord Kelly gave a dubious shake of the head. “We shall see.”

Much of the journey was spent in quiet delight and contemplation. Lord Kelly looked out the window at the beautiful scenery and thought of what lay ahead. Surely, the lady wasn’t to be as transfixing as was described. Lord Kelly always found it difficult to be transfixed by particular ladies due to the same problem he encountered with Lady Abigail Joy. Putting on airs was certainly the least attractive quality, in Lord Kelly’s estimation.

Arriving at Lord Henry Spencer’s new townhome, Lord Kelly was the first to alight the carriage, helping Sarah down and watching the joy on her face as she looked up at the vast, four-storey structure. All the townhomes on the street were constructed of white stone, and in the centre of the plaza, a delightful garden that the windows of the townhome looked down upon. All in all, Lord Kelly thought the building perfect in every way.

The furniture of the previous viscount was purchased with the home, and as they all entered, Lord Kelly noted how well-appointed everything was. The former servants remained on staff, and they showed everyone to their rooms with expert care.

Even within the townhome, Lord Kelly could perceive the life and vitality of London surrounding him. The home was quiet, but the bustle of the city was not far away. From his room on the third floor, he looked down the back of the home to another small garden and stables. Henry would have everything he needed to live an enjoyable life.

“My Lord,” the butler said upon entering his room.

“Yes?” Lord Kelly asked.

“The lady of the house sent me to inform you that a one Lady Lily Monroe is paying a call for supper.”

Lord Kelly smiled to himself. “Thank you for informing me.”

Sarah didn’t seem to be one to tarry when it came to such matters. Lord Kelly arrayed himself in his finest suit and took great pains to do his hair just so. So ridiculous to put so much care into his appearance when he was meeting someone he’d never beheld before.

Upon coming down to supper, Lord Kelly made his way to the parlour where Henry and Sarah were seated. Standing in front of a grand painting was the back of Lady Lily Monroe. As she slowly turned, Lord Kelly felt his breath catch in his chest. Red-haired, tall, and slim, Lady Lily had sparkling turquoise eyes that verged on purple. So bewitching was her appearance that Lord Kelly immediately sensed why he’d been sent for.

“Lord Kelly,” Sarah said, standing from the couch. “This is Lady Lily.”

Lord Kelly stepped in, bowing his head. “I’ve heard much about you.”

“And I, of you,” Lady Lily replied, her eyes locking with Lord Kelly’s.

There was a moment of silence, and Lord Kelly didn’t know what to say. Henry cut the silence with his words. “Shall we enter the dining room? I must admit that I’m famished after our journey.”

Sarah and Henry entered first, and Lord Kelly and Lady Lily followed behind. He gave her a sideways glance, wishing to take in her beauty once more. Once in the dining room—modest in size—Lord Kelly was delighted to be seated next to Lady Lily, with Sarah and Henry on the opposite side of the table.

“Have you always lived in town?” Lord Kelly asked.

“Yes, always. I prefer it here. So much to see and do.”

“That’s what I’m told.”

“And you harken from Wales?”

“Indeed.”

“I once wrote a novel about Wales.” Lady Lily elevated her glass and drank some wine.

“What was it called?” Lord Kelly asked, lifting his brow.

“Venturing West.”

Lord Kelly’s jaw dropped open. “That can’t be. The novel—one of my favourites— was written by Constable Scott.”

Lady Lily smiled. “That happens to be my pen name.”

Lord Kelly felt a flutter in his chest. He was most certainly going to have to spend more time with Lady Lily Monroe.

THE END

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