Page 77 of The Botanist’s Improper Bride

“How about the claim that she’s actually marrying Mr. Emerson, not you? Is that true too?”

“No. Has he actually been telling people that?”

Sylvestor shrugged. “I don’t know whether it’s coming directly from him, but the ton is abuzz with the news that yet another of Seraphina’s betrothals has been cut short without a wedding, and the odds in the betting book have shifted in Emerson’s favor.” His nostrils flared. “Did she betray you? When I saw them together⁠—”

Trevor shook his head and held up his hand, needing a moment to collect his thoughts. “No. What you witnessed was Emerson trying to blackmail Seraphina into marriage.”

As succinctly as possible, Trevor explained the chemical studies that Seraphina had dedicated the past few years of her life to and the accusation Emerson had leveled at her, as well as the way he’d manipulated Mr. Dalton into accepting his suit against Seraphina’s will.

Trevor still didn’t understand why the concept of a woman participating in the sciences might be considered inappropriate. What could be improper about knowledge?

“Good God.” Sylvestor collapsed onto a chair, his golden curls flopping over his forehead, and whistled. “So, the fashion-obsessed society miss is some sort of secret genius, the ton’s favorite gentleman is a blackmailer, and Mr. Dalton is a spineless cretin. Is that about the sum of it?”

“I suppose so.” Trevor looked down at his hands, then allowed a slow smile to creep across his face. “But Seraphina is marrying me. I have a special license. I haven’t told her yet, but we can be married today. That ought to give the gossips something to talk about.”

Sylvestor didn’t respond. When Trevor finally raised his eyes, his friend was staring at him, mouth agape. He blinked, a gleam in his bright blue eyes, and then burst into laughter.

“Oh my God!” he gasped, clapping his hand to his mouth, his shoulders shaking with mirth. “No one will believe it! My academically inclined friend, causing a scandal.”

“I’m just marrying the woman I courted and became betrothed to.” Honestly, if society found that scandalous, there was no saving them.

“A woman who conducts secret science experiments, produces medicine for the poor, and who already has one failed engagement and a whole mess of confusion to her name.” Still laughing, he clapped Trevor on the shoulder. “You’re one of my favorite people. Never forget that.”

“And you’re one of mine. But what does that have to do with anything?”

Sucking in a breath, Sylvestor seemed to get a hold of himself. “Never mind.” His chest rose and fell, and he rubbed it, grinning broadly. “Miss Dalton doesn’t know about the special license?”

“No.” He’d been reluctant to write to her after she’d returned to her father’s home in case the letter was intercepted. “Do you think she’ll be pleased?”

“Considering everything you’ve just told me, I think she’ll be impressed by your forethought.”

“Good.” Trevor exhaled roughly. “I thought as much, but it’s hard to know for sure.”

Sylvestor’s smile softened and warmed. “Honestly, I think she’s perfect for you. Don’t worry so much about putting a foot wrong.”

“I’m glad you think so because I was hoping you’d stand with me and be a witness to the wedding.”

“I’d be honored.” Sylvestor opened his arms, then paused. “May I?”

Trevor hugged him, letting go quickly because he wasn’t sure quite how long to hold on for. Reaching into his pocket, he palmed the jewelry box that contained his grandmother’s wedding ring. “I’m calling on her now. Will you come with me?”

“Of course. We can take my carriage. Mr. Dalton may not react well if he sees yours coming. Not with this scandal looming over his head.”

They took Sylvestor’s carriage to the Dalton residence, and despite his worry about what this gossip might mean for Seraphina—and how Emerson might react once he found out they were married—Trevor couldn’t help smiling. The summer sun shone overhead, birds sang in the trees, and beautifully colored flowers sprang up all over the place, reminding him of the many wonders of life.

The carriage stopped in front of the house, and they approached the entrance together. However, before they reached the door, it swung open, and Seraphina’s tall, gangly maid rushed down the stairs.

“My lords,” she panted, bowing to each of them. “Miss Dalton isn’t home. She’s visiting with Miss Carruthers. The master…” She glanced over her shoulder, then lowered her voice. “He’s in a right awful mood. She got out of the house as quickly as she could, or else he might have tried to lock her in.”

“Thank you, Bessie.” Trevor exchanged a look with Sylvestor. “We’ll find her there. I appreciate you telling us.”

She nodded, her cheeks flushed, and bobbed a curtsy before hurrying back into the house.

Trevor retreated to the carriage, where he paused to give the driver their new destination, before getting in. Sylvestor climbed in behind him, his face tinged pink. He seemed to be enjoying the drama.

“Do you think Seraphina is upset?” Trevor asked as they rolled into motion.

“Most people would be,” Sylvestor replied.