Dear readers,
Today I thought I’d treat you to one of my favorite scenes in The Earl’s Enticement, the final book in the Castle Brides Series. I’ve often mentioned my rather quirky sense of humor. I’m afraid it’s revealed in full force below.
Enjoy!
Fastening her pendant around her neck, Adaira scrutinized herself in the floor length oval mirror. The necklace’s stones were an exact match to the golden ruffles edging her dress.
The transformation in her appearance when she cast off boy’s attire and donned the trappings of a lady of quality still unnerved her. She didn’t want to be attractive or appealing to men. She’d all she could handle fighting off Brayan’s unwanted attentions.
She dabbed a drop of iris and lily perfume behind each ear. There was no reason she shouldn’t enjoy her favorite scent.
Thank God she’d been spared the ordeal of a coming out, though Ewan and Mother tried to persuade her to at least venture to London. That was one advantage of being a Scot. There was no pressing need to present oneself at court before being put on display on the Marriage Mart, much like prime cattle at Tattersall’s.
I say, Lord Nincumpoop, Miss Birdwit appears delightfully healthy overall. Her breathing is normal, not the least exerted. Her eyes are bright and clear and free of discharge. Her hair is thick and shiny and her complexion is free of blemishes too, except for that wart on the tip of her nose.
I suppose for five thousand pounds annually, I could be persuaded to overlook it.
My dear Miss Rattlepate, may I have a look at your teeth?
Oh, would you look at that, Lord Falderal! Not a tooth missing. Nice and straight too, though the garlic and onions you ate at dinner are lingering overlong, my dear. I advise nibbling some parsley.
What about her disposition? Is she obedient and compliant? Does she kick or strike? Nip or bite?
Adaira grinned to herself. Would that the misses had to hoist their skirts to have their hips, legs, and feet inspected like her horses did before she sold them.
Have a mentioned Adaira is not your average lady of quality? She gives Roark, the Earl of Clarendon, fits before the romance starts.
Don’t forget the launch of my newsletter. Look for it around May 28th, the release date for The Earl’s Enticement. I’m offering the recipe card below along with either a teacup or teapot cookie cutter. Yes, the recipe is actually my Grandma Cameron’s!
