It's In His Kiss is the seventh novel in the Bridgerton series, by Julia Quinn. The book follows the love story of Hyacinth Bridgerton, the eighth and youngest Bridgerton child.
Synopsis[]
Meet Our Hero…
Gareth St. Clair is in a bind. His father, who detests him, is determined to beggar the St. Clair estates and ruin his inheritance. Gareth’s sole bequest is an old family diary, which may or may not contain the secrets of his past… and the key to his future. The problem is—it’s written in Italian, of which Gareth speaks not a word.
Meet Our Heroine…
All the ton agreed: there was no one quite like Hyacinth Bridgerton. She’s fiendishly smart, devilishly outspoken and according to Gareth, probably best in small doses. But there’s something about her—something charming and vexing—that grabs him and won’t quite let go…
Meet Poor Mr. Mozart…
Or don’t. But rest assured, he’s spinning in his grave when Gareth and Hyacinth cross paths at the annual—and annually discordant—Smythe-Smith musicale. To Hyacinth, Gareth’s every word seems a dare, and she offers to translate his diary, even though her Italian is slightly less than perfect. But as they delve into the mysterious text, they discover that the answers they seek lie not in the diary, but in each other… and that there is nothing as simple—or as complicated—as a single, perfect kiss.[1]
Plot[]
Prologue
1815, ten years before our story begins in earnest…
Gareth St. Clair is summoned home from school by his estranged father. Richard St. Clair calls Gareth to his study, and tells him he is to marry Mary Winthrop. Gareth is shocked, as he’s only 18 and still in university. Richard insists, saying Mary’s dowry will restore the family fortunes. Gareth refuses, as he knows Mary is mentally challenged. Richard still insists, saying it’s all Gareth is good for. Gareth finally asks why Richard treats his son like this. Richard becomes angry, and reveals that Gareth is not his son. Gareth is shocked, as they look similar. Richard says that’s just a coincidence, and claims Gareth owes him for Richard taking care of him. Gareth, though, refuses to give in. When Richard says he’ll cut him off, Gareth accepts that, and leaves.
Chapter 1
Ten years have passed; the story shifts to Hyacinth at the Smythe-Smith musicale.
Hyacinth is at the Smythe-Smith musicale with Penelope, dreading every minute of it. Lady Danbury joins them. She mentions that her grandson will be joining them, piquing Hyacinth’s interest. Gareth, Lady Danbury’s grandson, finally arrives. Hyacinth is taken by his handsome face. Gareth takes Lady Danbury’s cane away from her, and Hyacinth is impressed by his boldness. She feels her body warming up at Gareth's closeness. Before she can think too much about it, the musicale begins, to everyone’s misery.
Chapter 2
Thirty minutes later, and somewhere not too far away, a small dog is howling in agony. Unfortunately, no one can hear him over the din…
As the crowd gets up after the performance, Gareth watches Hyacinth with admiration, hearing that she’s both terrifying and intelligent – a younger version of Lady Danbury. Hyacinth finally asks Gareth to walk around the room with her, and he agrees, where they banter some more.
Gareth is impressed with Hyacinth's bluntness. Hyacinth says it’s the reason why she’s not been able to get married, which Gareth finds surprising. Hyacinth finds herself battling wits with Gareth, which flusters her. He meets her challenge before leaving, and she's speechless.
Chapter 3
Three days later, and our hero learns that one can never really escape one’s past.
Gareth is visited by Caroline, the widow of his late brother, George. Caroline gives him the diary of Isabella Marinzoli St. Clair, Richard’s mother, saying George had willed it to him. Since it’s in Italian, Gareth needs to find someone to translate it. Caroline tells him to make sure it’s someone he trusts. Gareth decides to ask his grandmother for help.
Meanwhile, in a drawing room not so very far away…
Hyacinth is reading Miss Butterworth to Lady Danbury in her drawing room. She finishes the chapter, annoying Lady Danbury. Lady Danbury says Hyacinth is just like her, which she takes as a compliment. Lady Danbury asks Hyacinth about her marriage prospects, and she tells Lady Danbury not to do matchmaking for Hyacinth and her grandson. Lady Danbury thinks they would be a good match. Hyacinth tries to deflect, but Lady Danbury keeps trying to tell her how to get Gareth’s attention. Hyacinth is embarrassed, and shuts her down.
Gareth shows up, surprising Lady Danbury and Hyacinth. Hyacinth admires how he’s devoted to his grandmother. Lady Danbury asks Gareth the reason for his visit. Gareth regrets coming when Hyacinth is there, but resignedly pulls out the diary from his pocket.
Chapter 4
At which point Hyacinth’s life finally becomes almost as excited as Priscilla Butterworth’s. Minus the cliffs, of course…
Gareth shows the diary and asks Lady Danbury if she knows someone who knows Italian. While Lady Danbury is thinking, Hyacinth interrupts and reveals she knows Italian. Gareth and Lady Danbury are both shocked, and Hyacinth explains she learnt from her Italian governess. Reluctantly, Gareth hands over the diary to Hyacinth, who begins reading it with interest. Hyacinth needs more time, and Lady Danbury says she’ll see Gareth tomorrow night, at the Pleinsworth poetry reading. Gareth reluctantly agrees to accompany his grandmother. Hyacinth leaves, ignoring the giddy sensation she’s feeling at seeing Gareth. Gareth offers to walk her to the door, and she’s speechless at his close proximity. Gareth is impressed by this, and Hyacinth leaves, annoyed by her reaction.
Hyacinth arrives home.
Her mother has been waiting for her.
This is not good.
Hyacinth tries to hinder Violet’s matchmaking. Violet asks about Gareth, wondering if Hyacinth likes him. Hyacinth admits she might. Violet is excited. Hyacinth says she can’t make a decision based on what Violet thinks. Violet bluntly says Hyacinth is afraid of Gareth, which is why she won’t pursue him, which shocks Hyacinth. Violet believes when Hyacinth finds someone who is her equal, she tends to push them away.
Violet thinks she’s been too lenient with Hyacinth because her birth helped her smile again after Edmund’s death. She loves her daughter, but is afraid that she’ll push away a good match because the man challenges her. Hyacinth is thrown by her mother’s words, and says she’ll think about it.
Chapter 5
The next evening, in the drawing room of the estimable Lady Pleinsworth. For some strange reason, there are twigs attached to the piano. And a small girl has a horn on her head.
Gareth immediately comes to Hyacinth’s side at the reading, which is actually a play. Hyacinth warns him people will think they’re courting, but Gareth says he could increase her marriage prospects. They notice both Lady Danbury and Violet purposely sitting far away from them, and realize they’re matchmaking. Hyacinth thinks that Gareth has all the aspects she’d want in a husband, but since he has a terrible reputation, they won't be a good match. As the event starts, Hyacinth is still focused on Gareth.
Ninety mind-numbing minutes later, and sadly, our hero was right about the cows.
After the show, Lady Pleinsworth tries to push Gareth towards one of her daughters. Hyacinth plays along, enjoying Gareth’s misery. After Lady Pleinsworth leaves, Gareth asks Hyacinth about Isabella’s diary. She tells him how Isabella was unhappy about her marriage, which doesn't surprise Gareth. The two are then accosted by Lady Danbury and Violet. Gareth tries to leave, but Violet entraps him into attending Anthony's ball on Tuesday. Hyacinth is upset when her mother says she’d love his company, and Gareth teases her. Hyacinth reminds him about greeting Lady Pleinsworth’s daughter, Harriet. Gareth realizes how much he enjoyed Hyacinth's company and can’t forget her.
Chapter 6
The following Tuesday, in the ballroom at Bridgerton House. The candles are lit, music fills the air, and the night seems made for romance.
But not, however, for Hyacinth, who is learning that friends can be just as vexing as family.
Sometimes more so.
Hyacinth is annoyed by Felicity matchmaking her and Gareth. Felicity encourages Hyacinth to dance with him, enjoying how riled up Hyacinth is with her teasing. The two ladies are distracted when they realize that Gareth’s father has arrived at the ball, too. Gareth is still dancing with Jane Hotchkiss, and doesn’t notice. Hyacinth decides to ask Gareth to dance, and Felicity teases her about creating a stir. Hyacinth simply leaves.
Thirty seconds later. It doesn’t take very long to cross a ballroom, after all.
Jane notices Gareth distracted while they’re dancing. She asks who he’s looking for, but he refuses to admit that he’s looking for Hyacinth. When they move away, Jane sees Hyacinth standing behind them, and Gareth is entranced the moment he sees her. Hyacinth greets Jane, who compliments the ball. Hyacinth directs her to Kate, the hostess of the party. Jane and Gareth both take the hint, and Jane leaves. Hyacinth then asks him for a dance, surprising Gareth, who teases her to her annoyance. He leads her to the dance floor.
Hyacinth tells Gareth about her progress on his grandmother’s diary. Hyacinth mentions how Isabella skipped over her wedding night, and Gareth is thankful. Hyacinth smiles, and Gareth realizes how beautiful she is when she’s genuinely smiling. When Hyacinth calls his attention, he says that she can use his given name, and she says he can do the same. Hyacinth tells him the origin of her name, and her father’s death before she was born. Gareth sympathizes, saying it’s “difficult not to know one’s father.” The two head off the dance floor together.
Chapter 7
Ten minutes later, and our scene has moved to the hall.
Gareth and Hyacinth talk some more, then he bids farewell and heads to the men’s facilities. He encounters his father there. They trade jabs and Gareth tries to leave, but Richard blocks him. He goads him about courting Hyacinth. Gareth is surprised Richard saw them. Richard rants about Gareth inheriting the barony over George. Gareth retorts that he never wished for George to die. Richard taunts Gareth is not good enough for Hyacinth, saying he is probably the son of a footman or a servant. Gareth taunts him back, saying to everyone else, he’s Richard’s son. Richard leaves, insulting Gareth once more.
Frustrated, Gareth composes himself, then walks out of the room and sees Hyacinth. She mentions seeing his father in the hall, and knows he said something to upset Gareth. He thinks about Richard’s insults, and realizes he wants Hyacinth. Gareth kisses her, and Hyacinth returns the kiss. Recognizing that she desired him, Gareth feels happy again. Gareth pulls back, encouraging her to kiss him properly, but Hyacinth pulls away and, to his surprise, runs off.
Chapter 8
The next morning. Our heroine is sitting on her bed, perched against her pillows. The Italian diary is at her side, but she has not picked it up.
She has relived the kiss in her mind approximately forty-two times.
In fact, she is reliving it right now.
Hyacinth is thrown by all the emotions over her first kiss. She starts translating Isabella St. Clair’s diary again. Hyacinth gets to a portion that shocks her, and makes her impressed by Isabella St. Clair.
An hour or so later, an instant before Gareth knocks on Hyacinth’s door.
Gareth arrives at Number Five. Hyacinth opens the door, and Gareth comes in. Hyacinth brings him into the drawing room, saying she did think about returning the diary, like Gareth expected, but it was too interesting for her not to read. She gives him the book, and reveals that Isabella’s grandmother had given her diamond jewelry, and she never told his grandfather. She hid them in Clair House so he would never find them.
Hyacinth says they should go to Clair House, and retrieve the diamonds to get rid of his financial issues. Gareth is surprised she knows, and Hyacinth says everyone knows that his father has racked up several debts. She tells them that they should go over to Clair House, and look for the diamonds. Gareth, though, refuses to sneak her into Clair House, and says he’ll go in the night. Hyacinth, though, points out that he needs her help to translate, and she can only figure out Isabella’s exact meaning by seeing the house. Gareth finally agrees reluctantly, and says they’ll go on Monday night, which Hyacinth is excited to hear.
Chapter 9
Monday. Our hero, who has spent much of his life in reckless abandon, is discovering the rather odd sensation of being the more sensible member of a duo.
Gareth sneaks over to Hyacinth’s house on Monday night. Hyacinth is waiting for him in disguise. Gareth feels attracted to Hyacinth, seeing her in pants. They head over to Clair House, and to a window that Gareth knows has a broken latch. Gareth lifts Hyacinth up to get to the window, and they end up in close proximity. Hyacinth gets in, and Gareth quickly follows her.
Gareth asks Hyacinth about the diary, which mentioned a green room. Gareth suggests they look in the baroness’s office first. Gareth leads her to the room, where Hyacinth notices a curio cabinet. She immediately heads over, but it’s empty. Gareth suggests the desk, but Hyacinth thinks the cabinet might have a secret compartment if it’s from Italy, and Gareth moves it so they can inspect. They find a catch at the back, and Hyacinth releases it to reveal a small piece of paper. Gareth shows her where it was hidden, and Hyacinth reacts to his hand touching hers. As they reset the room, Gareth realizes someone is coming, and quickly pulls Hyacinth into a connecting closet.
They listen as someone comes in to the room, but they eventually leave without finding Gareth or Hyacinth. They stay to be safe, before finally leaving the way they came. Hyacinth is thrilled by the whole adventure, which upsets Gareth. Hyacinth still says that was exciting, and accuses Gareth of being a “stick in the mud”, which surprises him. They go back and forth until they get to Hyacinth’s home.
Chapter 10
Hyacinth is in a cheery mood the next morning, which Violet notices, so Hyacinth hides in her room. Violet would notice if Hyacinth was falling in love, even before Hyacinth.
Hyacinth continues to translate Isabella’s note. She thinks the note points to a clue in a book or the library, but is not sure. She thinks about asking Gareth, and is giddy at the thought. Hyacinth is on edge waiting for Gareth, and is startled by Gregory. He notices her edgy behavior, which annoys Hyacinth. He says that he saw her with Gareth at Bridgerton House during the ball, and asks if she’s pursuing him. Hyacinth says she doesn’t know, and tells Gregory to not say anything to anyone. He says he won’t, but says she has his approval, teasing her about their future children. Annoyed, Hyacinth goes back into her room.
One hour later. Gareth is about to learn what it means to belong to a large family. For better or for worthe.
Gareth comes to Number Five, and is escorted to the drawing room, where he meets Violet and Hyacinth having tea. They both introduce Gareth to Gregory. He watches Gregory and Hyacinth tease each other, amused. Gareth talks to Violet, who asks about his family, and he mentions that his brother died the year before. She gives her condolences, and Gareth sees she’s sincere, which endears Violet to him. They discuss Lady Danbury, and Gareth realizes Violet is doing matchmaking for him and Hyacinth. He’s still worried about his parentage coming out. Daphne later arrives, and Gareth watches the Bridgerton family interact. Hyacinth then suggests going for a walk, and Gareth offers to join her, taking the hint. Though Gregory offers to join, Violet and Hyacinth stop him, and Gregory remarks Hyacinth is more dangerous than Gareth, which Gareth silently agrees with.
Chapter 11
A quarter of an hour later. Hyacinth is completely unaware that her life is about to change.
Hyacinth and Gareth head out, and she quickly tells him about the note, sharing her theory about it referring to the library. Gareth says it makes sense because Isabella was a very sharp woman, and his grandfather avoided the library. Hyacinth thinks the book may be scientific based on Isabella’s clues.
Gareth thanks Hyacinth for her help, and she says she liked having the distraction. Gareth is reluctant to go with Hyacinth back to Clair House, but knows he won’t win. Gareth says she’s just as tenacious as her family, and Hyacinth doesn’t disagree. Hyacinth complains about her family trying to marry her off, but Gareth says she’s lucky to have a family that cares for her. Hyacinth is surprised by the sudden seriousness in his tone. He tells Hyacinth that his only real family is his grandmother, and wishes he had someone else who meant everything to him. Hyacinth realizes that she wants to marry Gareth. He says they should head back, but he stiffens just after looking over Hyacinth’s shoulder. She looks, and sees his father coming towards them. She offers to walk away with him, but Gareth refuses. Curious, she waits for Richard to approach them.
Richard approaches, and he and Gareth have a stunted conversation about him hanging out with Hyacinth. Richard asks Hyacinth about spending time with Gareth, and she says she does, thinking Richard should be proud. This sets off another mysterious conversation. Gareth leads her away, while Richard cryptically says she should make sure to have all the information before making any decisions. Hyacinth asks what that conversation meant, but Gareth refuses to answer. She finally asks why he hates his father, but he brushes her off as they arrive at her house.
Chapter 12
Twenty minutes later, after a long and silent walk.
Gareth brings Hyacinth back, and she asks him to come in. Though he refuses, she insists. She tells a curious Gareth that she always wished she had a father. But after meeting Gareth’s father, she realizes she should be thankful, and tells Gareth how sorry she is. He’s surprised to hear her apology, and her say that it’s hard for someone to love her. Gareth realizes she’s wrong. He walks over to her, tells her to stop talking, then kisses her. He kisses her more tenderly than last time, and pulls her close as they both revel in the heat of the kiss.
Gareth continues to kiss her, while touching her all over. He thinks how very satisfying it would be to be married to Hyacinth. Then, he stops kissing her as he thinks about why he should marry Hyacinth. He thinks about his family, and about his honor as a gentleman. He doesn’t want to compromise Hyacinth. Gareth leaves while Hyacinth is still dazed. He says he needs time to think, and she’ll find out why. Hyacinth is impatient, but Gareth just leaves, amused by her questions.
One hour later, in the foyer of Bridgerton House. Our hero, apparently, doesn’t waste any time.
Gareth is granted an audience with Anthony in his study. Gareth tells Anthony his wish to marry Hyacinth. Anthony is visibly relieved by Gareth’s declaration, and pulls out his best cognac to celebrate. Gareth is dazed, but accepts the drink. Anthony says how he has four sisters, and he’s finally able to settle all of them. Gareth can’t resist mentioning that Anthony has a daughter, and Anthony says since she’s only three, he has time before worrying about her.
Anthony was losing hope of Hyacinth marrying, and is relieved to see this day happen. He knows Hyacinth is a unique woman, and tells Gareth he will have his hands full. Gareth says how he’s only ever been close to his grandmother and brother. Anthony assures him that the Bridgertons would be loyal to him, even if Gareth’s father makes trouble for them. Afraid Hyacinth or the Bridgertons will reject him if they find out the truth of his birth, Gareth decides there’s only one way he can make sure Hyacinth will marry him: to compromise her, which doesn’t entirely make Gareth upset to think about.
Chapter 13
Only one hour later. As we have noted, when our hero puts his mind to something…And did we mention that it’s a Tuesday?
Lady Danbury says how Hyacinth is spending too much time with her grandson, which makes Hyacinth blush. Lady Danbury immediately notices, and asks Hyacinth about it. Hyacinth dodges her, focusing on the book. She gets to a place where Priscilla Butterworth recalls a conversation with her mom about how she will know a man loves her, and she says “it’s in his kiss.” Hyacinth immediately thinks of her and Gareth’s kiss. Lady Danbury calls back Hyacinth, who struggles to to start reading again. Before she can, Gareth arrives, wanting to speak with Hyacinth, surprising both ladies.
Lady Danbury insists on staying while Gareth talks to Hyacinth. He’s initially hesitant, but eventually relents. He immediately gets down and proposes to Hyacinth. She’s shocked into silence, until Lady Danbury yells that she will marry him. Gareth insists on Hyacinth answering, and she accepts. Hyacinth asks why he asked her, and Gareth says it’s obvious. Lady Danbury gets her cane, and bangs it to get Gareth to tell her why. She reluctantly leaves the room, but warns Gareth not to compromise Hyacinth.
After she leaves, Hyacinth again asks why he proposed. Gareth pulls her close, and says how attractive he finds her physically. Hyacinth feels the same, unable to respond because of the desire she feels with Gareth so close. He leaves, and Lady Danbury returns, asking if Gareth answered her question. Hyacinth simply says Gareth couldn’t not marry her, which delights Lady Danbury.
Chapter 14
Two weeks later, after Hyacinth and Gareth’s engagement is now well-known. Gareth is still worried about losing everything. He again is below Hyacinth’s bedroom window at midnight.
Gareth is at Number Five waiting on Hyacinth. He plans to seduce her, intending to make sure she can’t back out of their engagement.
Hyacinth arrives home after leaving the Mottram ball early. She’s eager to head to Clair House and search for the jewels. She heads to her room to change, and is shocked to find Gareth waiting for her. He quickly embraces her, and starts to kiss and caress her, making Hyacinth unable to speak coherently. Gareth picks her up, and places her on her bed before joining her. Gareth slowly undresses her and caresses her bare skin, making Hyacinth almost speechless. Gareth tells her that she is “better than perfect.” Hyacinth then realizes she has fallen in love with him.
They both slowly undress, and Hyacinth becomes nervous. Gareth assures her that he can take the lead, and tells her to stay quiet, something difficult for Hyacinth. She still feels calmer after he talks, and is surprised that Gareth is able to get her to stay quiet. When they’re finally both completely unclothed, the two slowly stoke each other's desires, and finally make love to each other for the first time. As Gareth finally relaxes, he’s shocked by how much he wants Hyacinth. She tells him they should move up the wedding date, and Gareth suggests they elope to Scotland. Hyacinth rejects that, but says she’ll convince her mother to move up the wedding date.
Hyacinth recalls the jewels, and says they need to leave. Gareth doesn’t want to move, but Hyacinth insists. Gareth is surprised she’s able to move so freely, and Hyacinth admits she feels energetic and light. Gareth finally acquiesces, and the two get dressed and head out.
Chapter 15
Inside the Clair House library. Hyacinth enthusiastically searches, while Gareth, less so.
Hyacinth and Gareth are trying to find a book that matches Isabella’s clue. Gareth notices another book by the same author as Miss Butterworth, and gives it to Hyacinth to read to Lady Danbury. Hyacinth reads the note, which indicates some book about marine life. She notices the books are not organized, and Gareth sheepishly admits he rearranged the books years ago to spite his father. He remembers then that there was a section of Italian books that were probably Isabella’s. They head over to that section, which is mercifully small. Hyacinth looks through all of them, and finds a book by Galileo that has the same title as the clue written by Isabella. They find a slip of paper hidden inside.
Hyacinth opens the slip, but she’s unable to read it because it’s not Italian. It’s a completely different language. Gareth doesn’t recognize the language, either. Hyacinth says she’ll ask Colin, because he might recognize it from his travels. The two straighten out the books before leaving. They sneak out and start heading back to Hyacinth’s home. Suddenly, Gareth pushes her into the shadows of a building, and she hides as she hears Richard’s voice after he sees Gareth.
Richard is suspicious about finding Gareth near Clair House. He then snidely remarks about Gareth’s engagement, asking how he got Hyacinth to accept, accusing him of seducing her. Gareth is furious at him insulting Hyacinth's honor, and nearly strangles him. Richard brings up Gareth's paternity again. He accuses Gareth of only proposing to spite him, which Gareth denies. Richard lets Gareth know that his betrothal to Mary Winthrop is still legally binding, venomously proclaiming that he made sure of it. He mocks Gareth’s dilemma before leaving. Gareth is stunned, but recovers when he remembers Hyacinth is still there and probably heard every word. When he goes to her hiding spot, she is gone.
Chapter 16
Gareth is still standing in the alley, wondering where Hyacinth has gone.
Gareth panics, and runs off towards Hyacinth's house, trying to find her. Just as she gets to the door, Gareth reaches her, but Hyacinth is quick and locks the door behind her. Still determined, Gareth climbs up to Hyacinth’s window again and ambushes her just as she arrives.
Gareth is angry at Hyacinth for running off, but she’s angrier and orders him out of her room. She accuses him of purposely ruining her so she would marry him, which Gareth silently admits was his intention. Hyacinth orders him out, but Gareth says he won’t leave till she promises to not run through the streets again. Hyacinth refuses to speak, and Gareth assumes she’s angry about his engagement to Mary. Hyacinth vehemently denies that as the reason. Gareth asks why then, and Hyacinth finally accuses him of proposing to her because of his father, not because he actually loved her. Gareth denies this, but Hyacinth says their conversation told her otherwise.
Gareth knows he didn’t propose to Hyacinth just to spite his father, and tries to explain that. Hyacinth, though, refuses to listen, and believes she’s just a pawn in a game. Gareth is sad to realize that she's hurt because of him. Gareth leaves, saying he’ll come back later. Hyacinth assures Gareth that her family will resolve his betrothal to Mary. She asks if that’s the reason he and his father are estranged, and Gareth points out she asked him to leave. Hyacinth says she’ll find out, and Gareth agrees, just not tonight. He climbs out of the window, and leaves.
Chapter 17
Hyacinth is having tea with her mother at Number Five.
Violet notices that Gareth has not visited in several days, and Hyacinth claims he’s dealing with estate matters. Violet thinks something is wrong, but Hyacinth lies while trying to busy herself with her embroidery. Hyacinth is hurt because she loves Gareth, but thinks he just used her to hurt his father.
Violet correctly guesses that the two of them are fighting, but Hyacinth refuses to elaborate. Violet asks if Hyacinth wishes to back out of the engagement, something Hyacinth has been thinking about for the last three days. After thinking about everything, she finally says aloud that she doesn’t want to end her engagement. Violet tells Hyacinth reach out to Gareth instead of waiting for him to show up. Hyacinth realizes that’s what she should do. Hyacinth thanks her mother and prepares to confront Gareth.
Chapter 18
That same day, Gareth is in his study, preparing to go to Hyacinth. He doesn’t realize she’s already coming to him.
Gareth is trying to think of a way to win back Hyacinth, when his valet, Phelps, announces that he has a visitor. Gareth says to show “him” in, but Phelps tells him that it’s Hyacinth. Gareth is taken aback. However, he recovers and tells Phelps to let her in. When Hyacinth comes in, Gareth scolds her for coming to his house alone, thinking about the people who could’ve seen her. Hyacinth points out that they’re already engaged, so it doesn’t matter if they do see her. Gareth is relieved to hear this, as it means Hyacinth is not breaking off the engagement. Hyacinth says she came to discuss the jewels, surprising Gareth. She wants to continue searching, but Gareth points out they have no idea where the next clue points to. Hyacinth says she asked Colin about it. He thinks it's in Slovene, the language of Slovenia, which borders Italy to the northeast, meaning Isabella could’ve known the language. Hyacinth believes that this is the final clue, as it’s very difficult and tedious to decipher. Gareth is impressed by her thinking.
Hyacinth then suggests that they search Isabella’s bedchamber at Clair House. Hyacinth finally cuts to the chase, and asks Gareth why he proposed to her. Gareth tries to respond, but cannot think of just one reason why he proposed to her. He can think of thousands. Gareth thinks back to what was going through his mind before he proposed, and comes to a realization: he’s in love with Hyacinth.
Gareth finally decides to tell Hyacinth that he’s not Richard’s son. Hyacinth is relieved, not wishing her children to have the same blood as Richard. Hyacinth wonders if Isabella knew, and thinks her diary might have a clue to Gareth’s father. Gareth wonders if this revelation will affect their engagement or her family’s approval, but Hyacinth says her family will still love him.
Gareth pulls her close and starts seducing her, but Hyacinth warns him they can’t. Gareth admits she’s right, but still kisses her, letting his hands roam all over her body. Afterwards, Gareth gives her his present, which is a drawing of Hyacinth. Hyacinth loves it. She also notices that he’s drawn a diamond bracelet on her wrist. Hyacinth is touched by the gesture. He gives her a second drawing of just the bracelet, and Hyacinth is thrilled, feeling the drawings are more valuable than the diamonds themselves.
Hyacinth says she still wants to find the diamonds, because Gareth deserves them and Richard doesn’t. Gareth decides to take her home, despite Hyacinth’s repeated pleading. He finally relents, saying he’ll go without her. Hyacinth sulks, but realizes if Gareth gave in to her all the time, she wouldn’t want to marry him.
Chapter 19
The following Tuesday. Everything important seems to happen on a Tuesday, doesn’t it?
Hyacinth brings the book she and Gareth found at Clair House to Lady Danbury’s place. The matron is excited to see it. Lady Danbury then asks about Isabella’s diary. Hyacinth admits she brought it with her to read in the carriage. Lady Danbury asks her to read from the diary. Hyacinth relents, and picks up where she left off. Hyacinth notices Lady Danbury has fallen asleep, and decides to skip ahead to when Gareth was born to see what Isabella says. She finds an entry from June 1796, when Gareth would’ve been conceived, and discovers Gareth's parents were in two separate places that month. When his mother Anne became pregnant, Isabella knew the child was not Richard's.
Lady Danbury happens to wake up at that moment, and says they should start reading Miss Butterworth again. Hyacinth reluctantly agrees, and puts down the diary. However, she’s unable to focus, and asks Lady Danbury to postpone their reading. Lady Danbury agrees, letting Hyacinth leave. Hyacinth thanks her with a kiss, excited they’ll be family soon. Lady Danbury says she’s already thought of Hyacinth as family for years, and is thrilled it’ll now be official.
Chapter 20
After a rather long family dinner and game of charades, Hyacinth is finally able to get back to the diary and the answer she’s been seeking.
Gareth is shocked when Hyacinth comes at his door late at night. He lets her in, upset that she’s risking her safety again. Gareth tells her to stay quiet until he can calm himself down from his fury and frustration. He thinks Hyacinth knows he was planning to go back to Clair House that night, and showed up to force him to take her. Gareth finally tells her he cannot bare her going out at all hours alone, and Hyacinth asks why. He blurts out that he loves her. He rants about how much he loves her, despite how mad she drives him.
Hyacinth is shocked, but recovers and says she loves him too. Gareth is overwhelmed and kisses her. Hyacinth pulls away from the kiss and tells Gareth that she knows who his father is: Richard’s brother, Edward. Isabella figured it out after Gareth was born. Gareth tries to process this information, and realizes that Edward knew, because he treated Gareth with the love and care that Richard never did. Gareth falls to the ground, shocked by all these revelations. When Hyacinth calls out to him, he realizes he longer cares about the family he never had; he cares about the one he will have with Hyacinth.
They both proclaim their love for each other again, and Hyacinth pulls them both towards Gareth’s bedroom. They both undress each other, and make love to each other again. Afterwards, as they’re laying next to each other, Gareth tells Hyacinth to convince her mother to move up the wedding, threatening to bring her to Gretna if she doesn’t. Hyacinth agrees, and then tells Gareth that they should go to Clair House tonight to search for the jewels. Gareth refuses, but Hyacinth keeps pushing him until he finally relents. However, he makes her promise this will be the last time until after they move in to the house. They get dressed and set off.
Chapter 21
One half hour later.
Hyacinth has uncharacteristically given up after searching every corner of the baroness’s bedchamber. Gareth has also given up, despite his earlier hope. Hyacinth is reluctant to quit, but Gareth says Richard will be back any moment from his hound-breeding club meeting. He consoles her by saying they’ll be back once he’s baron, because he actually is a St. Clair after all. Hyacinth finally decides they should leave. The two manage to sneak out of the house, and head towards the cab they hired. As they’re leaving, Hyacinth spots Richard.
Richard notes that it’s the second time he’s caught Gareth by Clair House, and now he’s caught him with Hyacinth. Richard wonders why he’s there. Watching him, Gareth realizes how similar they are in appearance, which is why he never thought he was a bastard till the day Richard told him. Their resemblance now makes sense. Richard demands an explanation, and Gareth is happy when he realizes that his father no longer affects him.
Gareth indifferently tells Richard that they were out for a stroll and tries to pull Hyacinth away, but she remains stuck in her place, also stunned that Gareth is simply brushing Richard off. Looking at her and Richard, Gareth decides to tell him about his paternity. He tells Richard about Caroline giving him Isabella’s diary, and Richard immediately retorts he shouldn’t have, because Isabella was not his grandmother. Gareth counters that she was, and how Hyacinth helped figure out that Isabella deduced that Gareth’s father is actually Edward.
Richard stands in stunned silence at Gareth’s statement. When he recovers, he tells Gareth to marry Hyacinth for her dowry before fleeing into his house. Hyacinth is stunned at Richard’s reaction, but Gareth just starts laughing. Hyacinth is worried he's not well, but Gareth says it’s because he’s happy, then he kisses her. Gareth asks Hyacinth to marry him. Hyacinth is confused, as she already accepted. Gareth admits he asked her for the wrong reasons last time. Now, he’s asking because he loves her and he can’t imagine a life without her. Hyacinth feels tears dripping down her face, touched by his declaration, and she finally says “yes” to Gareth’s second proposal.
Epilogue
Mary’s father assures Gareth that he never thought the betrothal was legally binding. Violet also helps by offering to sponsor one of Mary’s younger sisters for the next season. Violet firmly refused Gareth's request to move up the wedding.
Gareth and Hyacinth were married two months later. Their son, George, was born eleven months after their marriage, and their daughter, Isabella, was born two years later.
Richard died four years later; Gareth became Baron St. Clair, and he and Hyacinth moved into Clair House. These events take place six years after that.
Hyacinth is still looking for the jewels. Gareth finds her in the baroness’s washroom. The note they found was translated by three different Slovenians, who all said the same translation, and Hyacinth is convinced that it means it’s in one of the bathrooms. Gareth then says that Isabella wants her to check her Italian work. Hyacinth reluctantly stops searching to go help her daughter. Gareth slyly starts seducing Hyacinth, and she gives in.
While waiting for Hyacinth, Isabella goes to the nursery washroom. After using the chamber pot, she is leaving when she notices a crack between two tiles in the wall. She uses her comb and manages to open the crack further. It cracks around one piece of tile. Isabella tugs at the tile, maneuvering it every way to get it out. She gets it loose, and sees a small hole behind the tile. She reaches inside, and finds a small velvet bag. She is stunned when a diamond necklace and bracelet fall out of the bag.
Hyacinth comes to her room, and Isabella panics in the washroom, wondering what to do. As Hyacinth drones on about her lessons and classes, Isabella keeps staring at the diamonds in awe. She finally puts them back.
Notes and Trivia[]
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