The Matrimonial Advertisement (Parish Orphans of Devon, #1)

by Mimi Matthews

It roused his protective instincts. It made him want to shield her from harm.

Instead, with his rumpled black hair, sun-bronzed skin, and altogether too penetrating gaze, Mr. Thornhill rather resembled a swashbuckling pirate or one of the roguish antiheroes in the penny novels she’d been so fond of reading as a girl. A woman could easily become infatuated with such a man. Especially as Mr. Thornhill was not merely handsome. He was tall and powerfully made.

He’d already proven himself to be a vulgar, mannerless brute. “Justin,” he said gruffly. “I beg your pardon?” “We’re engaged to be married, aren’t we? I see no reason why you must continue to call me Mr. Thornhill. My name is Justin. I give you leave to use it.” “Oh.” Her voice was faint. “What about you?” he pressed. “Or am I to address you as Miss Reynolds until we’ve solemnized our vows?” “If that’s what you’d prefer.” “I wouldn’t prefer it. I would dislike it intensely.” She took a quiet breath. “Well, in that case, I suppose you’d better call me Helena.”

“I expect all couples who meet by matrimonial advertisement find themselves in our predicament. They are strangers, after all.” “I’m not concerned.” His voice deepened. “You can learn me, if you have a mind to.”

A queer sort of ache settled in Helena’s heart. “I’m not going anywhere.” He scanned her face, a hint of a smile still playing on his lips. “You’re getting your color back, at least.” She was blushing. And he knew it, the rogue.

“You may tell the Earl of Castleton that Lady Helena is mine now. And I keep what’s mine.”