His Perfect Bride Read Free

securing a suitable match. However, she does not act at all like a lady should.”
    “In what way does she act, my lady?”
    “She is a stubborn and disobedient child. At times, I feel as though she waits for me to tell her something only so she can defy me. We have been attending balls and gatherings for over a month now, and she has not received special attention from any gentleman to indicate interest. I’m determined to see my daughter wed to a viscount or higher, and her wild ways are frightening off any acceptable prospects.”
    “At such an age, I’m not sure I would be able to help much in that regard. She has obviously made a decision regarding her actions, and I’m not sure it can be changed.”
    “You were telling me how you could relate better considering your age, and now you will have your opportunity to prove it. I believe you are wrong about Brianna. My daughter can change, and I feel that you are the one to help facilitate her transformation.” After a pause, her mother added, in a superior voice. “If you don’t wish for the position, or the reference you shall gain from it, then desist wasting my time. I need a strong woman who can discourage my daughter’s wildness and keep a close eye on her.”
    “My lady, I can be strong when the occasion arises, and I do wish for the position. If you allow me this chance, I’ll assist you with your daughter.”
    “Very well, you will start immediately. Brianna and I will be attending Lord and Lady Minor’s ball this evening, and I expect her to be ready to receive some suitors.”
    Brianna could hardly believe what she had heard. Did her mother honestly think additional training from a governess would force Brianna to comply with her demands? She loved her mother dearly, but the woman didn’t understand her. Brianna always felt trapped in her own home, and she had no desire to marry a titled gentleman and become his prisoner as well.
    Living that life was never something that appealed to her. There were so many duties and responsibilities that would limit her free time, a sad truth she learned from her mother. What Brianna longed for was a small cottage in the country, preferably near a body of water, where she could live out her life free from obligations. She could spend hours horseback riding, walking through the woods, and painting without any worries about neglecting her duties. Then perhaps one day she would be able to see her art in a gallery. People would come from all over to witness beauty through her eyes.
    Painting was a natural part of her life that came as easy as breathing. She found all the social interactions stifled her creative flow and limited her time with her art. Once she was liberated from her mother and the constant obligations, she would be free to paint whenever she chose. This dream would be hers, if she found an untitled and undemanding husband, someone she could easily influence, and married him before her mother had an opportunity to interfere.
    Realizing the room was empty, she emerged from her hiding place and exited the drawing room before anyone could uncover her deception. Once up the stairs, she slowed her pace and started for Grace’s bedchamber. Her sister was more anxious than she, since the governess would spend the majority of her time in Grace’s company.
    “Bree, thank goodness! I started to worry you had been caught. What took you so long? Have you learned anything useful?” Grace bombarded her as soon as the door opened.
    “Calm down, Grace. I didn’t learn anything that would assist us in relieving ourselves of her, but I found out what Mother’s plans are for me.”
    As Brianna told her sister what transpired in the drawing room, she could see her sister’s apprehension melt away. Brianna suspected Grace’s happiness was due in large part to the lack of plans for her future.
    “I don’t think Mother is going to give up her marriage plans for you, but ridding ourselves of this new one may give you