Nathaniel glared at her. “I regret to inform you I will not. As badly as you need it, I have never struck a woman and will not start now. But mark my words, I will not tolerate your abuse. I may not beat you, but rest assured there will be unpleasant consequences if you continue along your chosen path.”
“Go to the devil.” she choked out the words as she fought against the tears rising in her eyes.
“I’m sure I will, but not today.” Nathaniel released her, then strode toward the door.
“I detest you!” She yelled at his retreating back.
“The feeling is fast becoming mutual,” he called back, his steps never faltering.
Once his footfalls dissipated, Cordelia sank into her chair. She brought her biscuit to her mouth and took a nibble, then forced herself to swallow. Her stomach protested as her heart ached.
A tear trailed down her cheek, and she brushed it away. This was no way to live. It certainly was no way to raise a child. She had to figure out a way to fix the mess she’d landed herself in.
But how?
She couldn’t conform to his will. She could attempt to get to know him better. Perhaps in time, she would come to trust him, and they could share a genuine marriage. But what if he broke her heart in the process? What if he could not be trusted?
Opening herself up to him could be the biggest mistake of her life—worse than bedding him. But if he changed his ways. If he was faithful and reformed his reputation…
She could love him.
Cordelia blew out a frustrated breath. Ugly scenes from her childhood skipped through her recollections. All the times Mother had cried as Father flaunted his latest conquest. The way others would stare at Mother with false sympathy as they pried lurid tales from her while pretending to be her friend. The nasty fights Mother and Father had.
How could Cordelia risk such a scenario for herself and her child?
She nibbled at her lower lip, contemplating. She could pack her things and disappear. Catch the next mail coach going anywhere away from London. But then what?
Marring Nathaniel had robbed her of her financial security. She would no longer receive her funds on her birthday. And what if Nathaniel chased after her?
Frustrated and distraught, she rose from the table. It would do her no good to sit there staring at food she would not eat. Neither would it serve her best interests to drive herself mad with unknowns.
Cordelia had to take action.
