Chapter 45

“When I heard, I knew I could no longer keep quiet.”

The words startled Nick back to the present conversation and he forced himself to pay attention to Esmond, especially since it appeared that the man was indeed about to make an offer. Instead of worrying about a dowry, he began formulating a reply.

“I implore you, sir, not to allow such a lovely lady be bound to such a man—to such a family.”

Nick opened his mouth to reply, but Esmond rushed on.

“It is not only her happiness that I fear for, but her life.”

All concern about dowries vanished. “Her life?”

“Surely you’ve heard about the family. About the Marling line.”

Yet another impoverished title seeking to marry an heiress? No, he said he feared for—“Her life?”

Esmond stepped closer. “There is a long history of madness in the line.” His voice was an urgent whisper.

“Madness?” The sudden fear that had enveloped him began to recede.