Page 46 of Married to the Rake

“A twisted ankle feels nice?” he muttered, not looking down.

“No, silly, being close to you.” She sighed and rested her head against him. “How perfectly we fit together.”

He grimaced and marched into the formal garden then up the stairs into the house with haste. He found his mother in the parlor room, standing by the window with a cup of tea in hand. He narrowed his gaze at her as she twisted quickly and with a perfect surprised look at Judith being in his arms. She’d never tried to push him into a relationship before, even if she had murmured about wanting grandchildren soon, but Judith had done some mighty fine work.

“Oh dear, whatever happened?” his mother asked, hastening over.

“She twisted her ankle.” He deposited her on the sofa with little care, sending her sprawling on the pink fabric.

“Oh.” Judith swiftly righted herself and he noticed her put pressure on her ankle before she remembered her injury.

“Well, goodness, what a shame. Perhaps you can keep her company while I send someone for some ice,” his mother suggested.

“I will send someone for ice,” Brook told her, exiting the room before his mother could say anything. A shudder ran through him. Even if he did not have his eyes set on Chloe, there was no chance he would marry Judith—no matter how keen his mother was on the match.

No one could compare to Chloe, and he’d do whatever he must to make her realize they were meant to be together.