How to Turn a Frog into a Prince - Bree Wolf Page 0,9

cleared his throat. “We were wondering if you’d like to accompany us.”

Nathanial’s brows rose. “On your honeymoon?”

His brother shrugged. “We used to travel together all over the world. Why not do so again?”

“Because this is your honeymoon,” Nathanial scoffed, unwilling to contemplate the awkwardness of being the fifth wheel in this endeavor. Was he truly this pitiable that they would sacrifice their honeymoon in order to try and cheer him up? “I appreciate your offer. However, I’ve made plans to return to Boston within a fortnight.”

Zach frowned, and Becca’s smile faded. “Do you truly want to go back so soon?” she asked directly. “I understand that you have no wish to accompany us.” She glanced at her husband. “Perhaps it was a poor idea, indeed. However, you could remain here at Pembroke Hall or go to London, meet new people, try something different.”

Zach nodded eagerly. “I think that’s a splendid idea!”

“I don’t know anyone here,” Nathanial remarked, uncertain how he felt about his sister-in-law’s suggestion. His plan had been to come to England, meet his brother’s wife, wish them well and then return to Boston. Always had Nathanial been one to make plans and see them through. Until his last plan had ended in utter disaster! “The company. I am needed—”

“Is the company your only objection?” Zach interrupted. “Did you leave it in Mr. Johnson’s care?” Nathanial nodded. “Then there is no reason to return so soon. You know as well as I do that Mr. Johnson is more than capable to see to it. We’ve trusted him before and never regretted it.” His brows rose, urging Nathanial to acknowledge the truthfulness of his words.

“What would I do here?” Nathanial asked, feeling like a child, completely uncertain of the world he was facing.

“Anything you’d like,” Becca exclaimed, then turned to look at Zach. “Perhaps Lord Markham could show him around.”

Zach nodded. “I’ll ask him.”

Overwhelmed, Nathanial stared back and forth between his brother and sister-in-law as they began to make plans, not bothering to ask how he felt about them. Still, Nathanial could not deny that the thought of prolonging his return to Boston was tempting.

Perhaps he truly ought to gain some distance from his life.

Perhaps it would help him decide how to proceed.

It was worth considering.

Chapter Four

A New Family in the Making

With her hand resting on Pierce’s arm, Charlaine allowed him to guide her around Hyde Park.

Considering the tall townhouses, gray and imposing, the green oasis in the center of London was a welcoming diversion. It seemed even the sun shone more brightly here, its rays sparkling on the snake-like river that cut through the greens. Birds chirped overhead, and children’s laughter drifted to her ears from afar.

“We should have brought the girls,” Charlaine remarked on a sigh as her gaze drifted over the tempting-looking lawn.

Pierce laughed. “If we had, we wouldn’t have had a moment of peace.”

Her brows rose as she fixed him with a pointed stare.

“Very well,” Pierce conceded. “I wouldn’t have had a moment of peace.” Leaning closer, he held her gaze, a smirk on his face. “And don’t even think about it.”

Charlaine blinked her lashes innocently. “I do not have the faintest idea what you’re talking about.”

Pierce’s gaze dropped to the hem of her skirts. “I know that you think wearing shoes is optional. However, I must warn you, London society strongly disagrees.”

Charlaine rolled her eyes. “They wouldn’t if they tried it. You cannot deny that fresh grass under your feet feels heavenly. It’s almost as good as sand between your toes.”

Pierce chuckled. “Albert almost had a heart attack when he first noticed your…fondness for walking barefoot.”

Charlaine smiled at the memory of Albert’s shocked face. It had literally drained of blood, giving the dear man a frighteningly pale complexion. However, the time he had caught her sliding down the banister had been worse. Charlaine had feared he would drop dead then and there, and she had immediately promised him not to do so again.

A promise she regretted every once in a while.

As did Daphne and Susan.

Belatedly, Charlaine noticed that Pierce’s arm under her hand had turned to steel, his muscles tense to the point of breaking. When she looked up at him, she found his jaw was clenched and his eyes were hard as though he were locked in a battle of life and death. “Pierce?” she whispered, thrown off by the hateful glare in his eyes as he stared at a man and a woman, who were taking a stroll through the park not unlike