A Gentleman's Vow (Saints and Sinners 2)

“Well, you’re…” Lord James gestured up and down. “You are uniquely placed to ensure my success and bring your influence to bear. You’ve known the family a long time, being neighbors and all.”

Far too long to like the direction this conversation was headed. “Indeed.”

“It’s clear to see Stapleton trusts your opinion. The man talks about your easy good nature all the time.”

“Does he?”

“The thing is…I have botched my affairs quite thoroughly, and I need your help to win her hand in marriage.”

Learning to notice when a lady isn’t interested in you might be a good idea, Gideon almost said aloud. “I’ve never been married, so I wouldn’t know how to advise you about a courtship.”

The fellow frowned deeply, lips tightening until the skin around his mouth puckered. James squinted at him. “How much?”

“I beg your pardon?”

“How much for your estate?”

Gideon grew cold all over. “Quigley Hill is not for sale.”

“My father says everything is for sale.” He leaned close. “If I dangle my purchase of such a prime estate before Stapleton, one conveniently close, he’ll see the merit in the marriage. Agree to sell Quigley Hill to me now, and I’ll make you a rich man by the end of the month.”

“I’m rich enough. More than you, I’ve heard.”

“Marriage will restore my coffers and overflow yours.” Lord James’ face became set. Hard. “But you are not titled. I can make that happen.”

He stared at the man in shock. “You’re offering me a title?”

“My father can arrange anything.”

Gideon’s chest expanded with fury. Jessica’s affections could not be bought, not with his help. He took a menacing step toward Lord James, fists clenched. “Get off my land before I kick you to the boundary, you impudent whelp.”

Lord James narrowed his eyes. “You’re making a mistake,” he muttered, but spun on his heel and stalked away.

A heavy hand landed on Gideon’s shoulder and squeezed. “Come back, little lordling, and let Whitfield kick your pampered arse,” Rafferty called out softly, mocking Lord James. “Grasping bastard, isn’t he? Father is much the same. I’d have punched him in the nose.”

“Tempting.”

Rafferty got in front of Gideon and set his fingers to his chest. “Was it my imagination, or are you unsurprised by his plans to wed Lady Jessica?”

Gideon pushed his hand away. “I knew about the possibility a few days ago.”

“Stapleton really does like you, to share that juicy tidbit,” Rafferty mused, rubbing his chin. “I’ve always found the family rather standoffish.”

“A few of them are.”

Rafferty started to chuckle. “The pretty one has you well tangled up in her affairs.”

Gideon scowled at Rafferty rather than answer him.

“Well, she won’t stand still for that sort of treatment.” Rafferty smiled quickly. “Stubborn. Set in her ways already.”

Gideon shook his head. “You’re describing Mrs. Warner, not Lady Jessica. For all that they are sisters, Mrs. Warner is not as easy to manage as Jessica has been.”

“Women are never easy, and they always want to manage us.” Rafferty grunted. “So, do you intend to propose to her?”

“Who?”

Rafferty rolled his eyes. “Lady Jessica.”