Page 14 of Read To Me, Lyon

Oliver’s unit had been assigned to guard the potential retreat corridor if British forces needed it. The decisive one-day battle pitting the British and Prussians against the French had been bloody with many lives lost. Many of the soldiers who’d survived carried both physical and emotional wounds that would continue to linger, possibly for the rest of their lives. He glanced at his friend, knowing he was one of them.

“Are you doing well?” Oliver asked Winthrop.

The man who used to never be without a gracious smile, now, forced one. “I am.”

“My mother and Julia would love for you to visit for dinner.”

His friend frowned. “I’m not much of a conversationist, lately.”

Oliver didn’t try to persuade him or snap him out of the darkness in which he was stewing. He understood every soldier had to find their way out at their own pace. All he could do was be supportive.

“I do have some news for you, and may require you to see my mother and Julia. I’m getting married.”

Winthrop truly smiled then. “Congratulations. I’m delighted to hear that. Is it someone I know?”

“I doubt it. She recently inherited the Larson Bookshop and Printing Press from her parents.”

His friend’s brows shot up. “An Everly not choosing a lady. That is an unconventional choice.”

“When I returned, things weren’t in a good state.”

Oliver didn’t need to say more. His good friend caught his meaning. “I would have given you a loan.”

“I thought of that, but I’m glad I didn’t. Miss Larson and I met in an unconventional way. Still, I think the lady and I are well-suited. I’m going into this situation far more optimistic than I anticipated. I hate that it begins with my need for her dowry.”

“You are one of the best men I know. You will prove to her it’s just a blip in your relationship,” Winthrop stated.

“Agree. I’ve only met her once, and that was at the Larson Bookshop, but there was something about speaking with her that felt right. Is that crazy?”

“How did a quickly approaching wedding happen?” Winthrop questioned.

“I used the Lyon Den’s proprietor’s services.”

His friend’s brows shot up in surprise and he smiled again. “That is rather unconventional for you and your family. I’m intrigued and look forward to attending your nuptials.”

Chapter Six

Kitty, annoyed, looked at the missive she’d read dozens of times over the last few days.

Miss Larson,

I have fulfilled your requirements and personally think you will suit, so I see no need to meet further. Don’t overcomplicate your relationship before it starts. Sometimes, you need to jump. I understand your concern about your business, but I suggest you tell him the truth when the time is right. Lord Everly may surprise you with his support.

Mrs. Dove-Lyon

She wasn’t trying to be a bother, but she worried for the Everly family’s reputation. How had Mrs. Dove-Lyon thought a family so well-known was appropriate for her to marry into? She couldn’t imagine telling Everly about her family’s business, at least the real details.

He would be here shortly. They’d agreed to meet alone so they could become more acquainted with each other. For most, it would be considered scandalous, but nothing about their betrothal had been conventional.

Thomas opened the door and announced, “Lord Everly.”

She rose, smoothing down the skirts of her day dress. She’d worn a green gown with textured flowers. It was one of her favorites and made her feel beautiful. Perhaps the Lyon’s Den proprietor was right. She needed to jump. At least she found him handsome.

The man she had been pondering entered and beamed at her. He perused her form, his blue gaze sending warmth through her body. Kitty suspected he and she might grow to care for one another deeply. The idea both thrilled her and made her nervous because she planned to keep secrets from him.

He took her hand, brushing his lips across the top. A spark of desire swirled between them. Kitty really liked him. She blushed, discovering she was still squeezing his hand, making him unable to step back. Flustered, she let go and yanked her arm away.

His eyes sparkled with mischief as if he knew what she was feeling. “I’ve been excited to spend time with you. Our wedding is approaching, and the few times we’ve met have been with my mother and Mr. Smith.”