One True Love by Lisa Follett Read Free Book Online Page B

family tree as his crabby old uncle, a man whose idea of pleasantry is barking at those around him. He had disliked Lord Winnington the moment they met, and he thought his nephew, his heir, the man who lived under his thumb and influence certainly could not be much better.
     
    What attracted Miss Chambers to such a man? Mr. Parker must be handsome and charming, and really, a future viscount for a common vicar's daughter could be attraction enough. Perhaps it was the man's title or his fortune. Except she did claim she was in love with the man. He clinched his fists at the sudden need to punch something or someone.
     
    Lord William's title was only a courtesy, and his fortune a gift from his father, but he was second in line for the title of marquis, which should account for something. Oh bother! This line of thought would get him nowhere. He glanced down at Miss Chambers. Her soft features begged to be kissed, and her bosom, ample and round, and heaving, begged for something more. Why was she breathing so hard?
     
    He thought they would never arrive. He bounded out of the carriage to help the ladies down in order to escape the close knit quarters. Miss Chambers departed last. He took her hand as she descended the steps. The touch of their hands sent shockwaves to a certain part of his body. Thank God he had on a large overcoat.
     
    "The solicitor said he would meet us here at ten. It does not appear he has arrived yet," said Lady Anne. They walked up to the front door. William soundly banged it with the knocker. They waited. No one came. He tried to open the door, but it was locked.
     
    "It appears we will have to wait. The house is locked up and no one is about," said William.
     
    "I suppose we could walk around the property." Anne pursed her lips. She obviously did not like this turn of events. She expected the solicitor to be here when they arrived. Unlike himself, Anne was never tardy.
     
    "Humph," grunted Lady Danforth. "I will be quite put out if we came all this way for nothing."
     
    "I am sure the solicitor will be here soon," said Miss Chambers.
     
    "Yes, you are probably right. Shall we tour the grounds?" asked Anne.
     
    The party walked around the gray stone manor house until they found a gate leading to the gardens. Overgrown flower, herb, and vegetable gardens stretched across the walkways. They had to pick their way through the weeds and vines. A lovely gazebo sat in the center of the gardens. Lady Danforth and Mrs. Bloomingburg climbed the short steps to make good use of the benches.
     
    "Well, If we decide to purchase this property we will need to clean up the gardens, however, they are quite ideal," Anne spoke to the group as she followed the two older ladies up the steps. Miss Chambers bent down to study some vegetation.
     
    "The children can help attend the gardens under the guidance of a gardener. This will help keep food costs down and teach skills some might find useful in their future employment," said Miss Chambers.
     
    "The girls could learn to cook and sew as well. I also believe all of the children should learn to read, write, and do their figures. An education could substantially improve their lot in life," stated Mrs. Bloomingburg.
     
    "Yes, we will need teachers and perhaps some of the local ladies could lend a hand at teaching various skills." Anne turned to William who was still contemplating Miss Chambers backside. "What do you think William?"
     
    "Oh...I...yes, of course, whatever you say." He smiled but caught his sister's lifted brow. She knew he was not listening, but at least she did not accuse him of woolgathering in front of the ladies, especially considering where his thoughts had strayed.
     
    "Hullo!" A short, round man with a balding head and spectacles came through the gate shouting and tripping over the vines winding across the path. William took him for the solicitor. The man stopped to remove a handkerchief from his pocket and wipe the sweat off his brow. William