Just for a moment Marigold did not answer, but looked at him searchingly.
“Are you really taking the plunge?” she asked. “I always understood that you were determined to remain a bachelor until you were well over forty.”
The Viscount laughed loudly because she had said the unexpected.
“Certainly that was my intention, although I did not put it into words,” he replied, “because it would have hurt my family. But I am quite certain that together we will laugh a great deal at life.”
Marigold gave a little giggle and made a gesture with her hand.
“You will certainly look astoundingly beautiful at the Opening of Parliament,” the Viscount went on, “and be easily the loveliest Marchioness ever to grace Trenthanson Hall.”
“As you will surely be the best-looking Marquis, who has ever reigned t
