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Additional Dragonblade books by Author Jennifer Seasons
TheCastleburysSeries
MayfairMisfit(Book1)
DukeUndone(Book2)
Table of Contents
TitlePage
CopyrightPage
Publisher’sNote
AdditionalDragonbladebooksbyAuthorJenniferSeasons
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Epilogue
AbouttheAuthor
Chapter One
June 1832
Barlow House
Mayfair
SOMEINDIGNITIES Amancouldsuffer.
Thiswasnotoneofthem.
“Whatinbloody hellamIlookingat?”
“Well,YourGrace,itwouldappear ahem tobeareproductionofyourlikeness incharcoal,perhaps inwhichyou seemto be…” Winston, the most loyal of valets, turned his head this way and that, brow furrowed inbefuddlement as he studiedthebitofparchmentJossheldinhishands “Why,youappeartobequitenudeand ill-equipped,shallwesay,to perform inthisartist’svisualrenditionofShakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.”
“But,YourGrace,ifthisscoundrelartistloosesuponLondonacompromisingportraitofyourself,astheyclaimadesireto do, shan’t that have dire consequences for your success inacquiringsilent investors for your theatre? Investors yousorely need?”
“Ofcourse,YourGrace”Oh,thatnoteofdisapproval Heheardit Loudandclear “Iendeavortoresideinastateofdenial,asyouwellknow.Gentleronmyconsciencethatway.Followme.”Josswaved forhisvalettofollow himandstrodewithsure,purposefulstridesalongtheornatehallcarpetwornthinwithageanddown the grand staircase to the main floor of Barlow House in search of coffee and something to eat. A rather unfortunate consequenceofpossessingsuchalargeandfitphysiquewastheconstanthungerthathoundedhimlikeasportingcanineonthe scentofafox Fromdawnuntilduskandbackagainhisstomachdemandednourishment,oftendivertinghimfromonetaskor anotherinsearchofsustenance.
“Walkwithme I’ve aninclinationtosee ifBower has thatnew round ofscones ready” Joss hadalreadyconsumed the previousbatch.Hiscook,awhite-haired,ruddyfellowfromthenorthcounties,wellunderstoodthatJossrequiredbreakinghis fast witha full, heartymeal first thinginthe morning and thenhe required another full round anhour later. Suchwas his appetite
Winston,shortofstatureandwideofgirth,huffedinshort,shallow breaths,andhustledtocatchupwithhim.Withthick fingers,thevaletnudgedhisroundwirespectaclesuphisnoseandsettledthembackintoplace “MightImentiononceagain, Your Grace, thatyouare uniquelysized instature and thatyour stride is also ofunique size? And thatIamnot, intruth, as vigorousapersonsuchasyouare,noraremylegsevenafractionaslong?”
ThecornersofJoss’sfinelydrawnlipstwitched,buthemerelykeptwalking,shruggingabroadshoulderinsidehisvelvet jacketwithaffected nonchalance, knowingitwould rankle his mostproper valet. “Perhaps Ishould slow to a snail’s pace? Wouldthatbettersuit?”
Chucklinglightly,Jossadmired,asheoftendid,thepaintingshungalongtheopen,elegantstairwellwallsandthewaythe softmorninglightfilteredthroughthemassive,sparklingwindowsandkissedthemwithdelicatewarmth Andashealsooften did,Jossmusedthatitwasashamenoonehadrenderedthesceneontocanvaswithoilandpaintbrushforhimtoappreciate whenthose dreary, grayEnglishmornings rolled in, as theywere wont to do so oftencome late autumnand throughout the winterandspringmonths Heshouldcommissionsomeone
“Gomery,” he said to his butler, noting the tray Gomery held aloft in his white-gloved hands, and altered his direction to intercepttheelderlyservantinpowerful,long-leggedstrides.“IsthatwhatIthinkitis?”
“Itisthelatesteditionofthe Gazette,YourGrace ThemostrecentRevivalistsattackoccupiesthefrontpage” “Ofcourseitdoes.”Mutteringasachill dasheddownhisspine,Jossreachedforthenewspaper,scanningthefrontpage forthereport “SaysheretheyterrorizedthedocklandsandtheThamesRiverfolkdrinkingattheProspectofWhitby”Having endured a close encounter withthe murderinggroup ofmasked noblemeninrecenttimes himself, Joss was inabsolutelyno rushtorepeattheexperience
“Rather a shame, if you ask me, that the Bow Street Runners were unable to apprehend any of themafter that lunatic absconded with Lord Castlebury’s eldest daughter,” Winston commented, and sniffed again a habit he indulged in when displeased Which,intruth,wasdecidedlyoften “Atleastthekidnapper,thatvileLordArnold,isdeceased”
“FewknowofLadyAmslee’shorrificordeal,asshehasrequestedittoremainthatway.”Jossraisedabronze,aristocratic browpointedlyathisvalet Winston’spenchantforidlegossipwaswellknownamongstallinresidenceatBarlowHouse If everindoubtaboutthelatest ton squabbleorwhoselady’smaidwasrecentlydiscoveredinheremployer’sbedchamberafter dark,Winstoncouldclarifywithcertaintyinmeremoments Hisuncannyknowledgewasawe-inspiringandratherterrifyingat thesametime.
“The Castleburys have beenguests uponnumerous occasions over the years, Your Grace, before youassumed the title,” chimed inGomery, his voice raspywithage as he shuffled across the pale marble floors toward Joss oncreaky, protesting knees.“Thewholelotofthem.LordandLadyCastleburyandtheirsonsanddaughters,includingthenewviscountess.” Castleburydaughters.
“Beg pardon?” Winston inquired archly, brushing an invisible speck of something off the front of his tailored brown waistcoatandsniffingagain,nodoubttakingissuewithJoss’swordchoiceregardingaladyofthepeerage.
Brushing past his servants, Joss followed the pull of the morning light filtering so alluringly through the dining room windows,washingtheoakfloors inanenchantingamber glow.Henoticedthings likethat.Light,affect, mood. Naturally, as consequence,thetheatredrewhimlikeflowersdrewbees,ripewiththepromiseofsweetnectar Forhim,thatnectarwasthe utterdeliciousnessofthewrittenandperformedword.Foraslongashecouldremember,hisheadhadfilledwithvisionsof thewaytalesshouldbeactedeachtimehepickedupabookandreadwhatwaswithin EvenbloodyboringtomesatEton His mindsimplysawthescene, knew thesettingandhowitshouldunfoldonstage.
“Your Grace, I’m certain you’re quite aware, but this is the dining room. You break your fast in the drawing room,” Winstonremindedhim,gesturingtothefloorabovethem,histonedirectandtheslightestbitaffrontedattheclearbreakfrom expectedbehaviorbefittingoneofJoss’selevatedstation.
“It’s a difficult task, that” The consternation in Winston’s tone nearly ruined his composure Rankling his valet never ceasedtoamuseandentertain.Itwasso easy. Likefruitripeforthepicking.
“Iwouldnever!”gaspedWinston,hisbrowneyeswideningwithshockandoffenseashishandsflewupward,landingone ontop ofthe other againsthis heartychest “The audacityofsucha thing!” His face turninganinterestingshade ofreddish purple,hespluttered.“Why,youarea duke!”
“Thank you,” Joss called out as he glanced over his shoulder at a slowly retreating Gomery “Bugger,” he muttered, realizing how long it could be with Gomery at the helmbefore he received said second breakfast. His stomach growled, immediatelyprotesting Perhaps he should have letWinstonhuffhis wayto the kitchento see abouthis foodafter all “That wasnotwell-planned.”
Insteadofsittingatthelong,elegantdiningtablewithhisvalet,Jossstrolledleisurelytothelargefrontwindowsdrapedin richblue curtains and looked outonto Upper BrookStreet, for the time beingignoringhis grumblingstomach. Claspinghis handsbehindhisback,hewatchedasLondonersstrolledbyontheirwaytoandfromHydePark.HavingbeenintheRainville family for several generations since its construction in seventeen forty-three, Barlow House possessed the distinguished locationofoneoftheclosesttownhomestothepark.That,inturn,providedJossquitethevantagepointfromwhichtoobserve thegoings-onofthe ton Humannaturehadawayofrevealingitselfinsmall,subtlemoments Suchasthetwitchofabrow,the pinchofamouth,theswivelofaheadwhenacertainotherpassedby.Allthoselittletells.ForJoss,itwastheatreanddrama alloutsidehiswindows.
“Youwishedtospeakwithme,YourGrace?”
Turninghisattentionfromayoungmisstryingvaliantlytocatchtheeyeofadapper-lookingbuckashechattedwithasmall groupofchums under the lushcanopyofthe tree across the street,Joss nodded “Idid We needa plantocatchAnonymous beforetheyreleaseanysortofpaintingaboutme nudeorotherwise.I’vemeetingswithpotentialinvestorsnextweek,andI wantthisinconveniencedealtwithimmediatelysoImaygivethatmyfullattentionandeffort”
Hisparentshadlovedtoentertain.Hisfather,quitelavishly.Foolishly.UntiltherewasnothingleftwhenJossinheritedthe title Quite the surprise ithad beento discover the conditionofthe duchy’s coffers after his father’s passing Though, to his father’scredit,hehadsettledhisdebtsbeforehisdeathlastyearandrelievedJossoftheheadacheofsettlingthemhimself.His gamblingandlavishnesshadsimplyleftnothingelsefor Jossor thetenantslivingwithintheestate’sboundsthatreliedupon their landlord for the care and upkeep oftheir homes. Who relied uponthe estate’s vastagricultural fields for gainful work. AndwhorelieduponworkatmillsownedbytheDukeofSomerton.
Through wit and ingenuity, Joss had created a way to fix the imbalance To right the wrongs With his theatre and its proceeds,hewould,withhardwork,rightthecourseandopentheflowofabundanceonceagain.Histenantswouldonceagain knowsecurityandcomfort,havedryroofsovertheirheads
“Indeed, I had heard that,” Winston replied lightly. “Now, about this rascal painter.” Pursing his lips thoughtfully, he crossedhislegsandlacedhisfingerstogetheroverhisknee “Itseemstomethattocatchthescoundrel,youmustlayatrap”
“Agreed.”Tappingafingeragainsthischin,JossturnedonceagaintothebaywindowoverlookingUpperBrookStreetand thetinygardenofBarlow Housecontainedquitetidilybehindablackironfence Nothingmore,really,thananarrow bedof flowers retained bya wall of marble that dropped straight downto the basement windows below. The four-or-so-feet gap betweenthewindowsandthemarblewallallowedlightintotheroomsbelowground andtheabilitytoopenthewindowsto receive fresh air through the stifling kitchen area “We must ensnare them I propose we put your most impressive communicationskillstouse.”
His interestkeenlypiqued, Winston’s eyes brightened instantly “Why, Ithinkthat’s a rather excellentidea!Ido so love putting those particular skills to use. They are my favorite, after all,” he said with a mischievous grin, his earlier pout completelyforgotten.
“Oh, I know.” Did Joss ever. Because of Winston’s waggingtongue, he had learned far more about his peers and their scullerymaidsthanhecaredtoeverknow.“Idoabsolutelyknow,butnotasmuchasyou.Doyouseethatmeekwomanacting
Winstonsmiledquickandwidebeforesittingupandclearinghisthroat,pushinghisglassesbackintoplace.Hismomentto shinehadarrived “That,YourGrace,istherecentlywidowedMrs Harlow,fallenoutofservicewiththeEarlofChadley,and newlyemployedwithintheViscountThomberton’shouseholdoverinHanoverSquare.Thereisquitethebuzzaboutthestate ofher relationship withthe earl and whatshe mightor mightnotbe carryinginher breadbasket ifyougleanmymeaning Whispers are thatthe countess discovered them in flagrante and threatened to burndownthe house ifMrs. Harlow wasn’t removedfromthepremisesimmediately Theearlandtheviscountareoldfriends,yousee Itisbelievedafavorwascalled uponsothattheearlcouldkeephernearbyfor… reasons.”Wagglinghiseyebrowssuggestivelybeforehecontinued,Winston appearedassmugandhappyasacataftereatingacanary.“Weshallseeinafewmonths’timewhatiswhat.”
“Impressive,” Joss murmured, eyeing his valet with equal amounts wariness and respect Bow Street would be hardpressedtofindabetterinformant.
“I don’t know what it is!” Winston chortled merrily, his full cheeks dimpling with pleasure as he bloomed under the attentionandapproval.“Buttheladiesall talktome.Always.”Hisbrowneyeswentround,andheleanedforwardover his crossedlegs “All The Time ”
“Exactly.”Josstappedthetipofhisnoseandwinkedathisvalet.“Now,you’regoingtodowhatevermadmagicyoudo and spread word that I will be in attendance at the Claremoore ball Saturday next. It’s the biggest ball of the Season. An extravaganza,ifyouwill.Everyonewhoisanyonewillbethere.SotoowillbeAnonymousiftheyknowIamattending.For these paintings always appear ata ton ball. Thatmeans thatthis artist has access to the highestrealmofSociety. And that means theyare either a peer or a servant withinthe household of a peer Withyour wildfire gossip, we shall uncover this culprit.”
Joss hadnotgottenthatfar.“Letmethinkuponit.I’ll haveitproperlysortedbeforetheball.”As heturnedhis attention onceagainoutthefrontwindows,hisgazesnaggedonshiningcopper-blondecurlspeekingoutfromunderabonnetadorned withawidelilacribbonastwoyoungladies onetall andstatelyandtheothershortandcurvy passeddirectlyinfrontof his window on their way to Hyde Park Instant recognition shot through Joss and scrambled his composure, sparking his irritation likeacatpettedagainstthegrainofitsfur.Suddenlyhisskinfelttootight,itchy.Andhismoodturneddownright sour
Thereitwasagain. The tone “Oh,gogossipwiththemaids”Jossfrownedandwaveddismissively “Gladly.”Winstonchuckledandleftthediningroomwithabounceinhisstepandawhistleonhislips. Josshadsomeratherintenseschemingtodo
Swallowing her telling smile, Nora replied lightly, “Merely considering the myriad ways one can inflict extreme discomfortuponanotherwithoutasingletouchorwordspoken.”
“Well, that is rather concerning” Lottie, her youngest sibling, snorted indelicately and glanced down at her “Though I undoubtedlyshould,Iwillrefrainfrominquiringfurther.Yourmindisamysteryand,honestly,atadfrightening,dearsister.”
“And yet I tookit as suchanyway,” Nora replied around a laugh, not at all offended. Linkingher armwithLottie, she leanedcloseandsaid,“Itrulyadoreyou”
“Iadore youtoo,” her sister replied withequal affection, her soft blue gaze sobering. “Althoughit still feels a bit odd promenadingthroughHydeParkwithoutCarenza,don’tyouagree?”
Unbidden, Nora’s gaze slid left to the lush flowers flanking the stoop of the townhome’s exquisite entrance, and she admiredwithoutthoughtthewaytheybloomedsocolorfully,growingjoyfullywildthroughthemetalfencetobrushagainstthe palemarblepillarsthatheldsentryovertheornatelycarvedoakdoor.Allthosesaturatedhuesagainstthepalestonebackdrop! She swallowed her rising excitement, but her pulse quickened nevertheless as the artist in her longed for her brushes and canvastorenderthesceneintopermanence.
Takenaback,asshealwayswasbythesheerphysicalbeautyoftheduke,Norainstinctivelycurledherglovedhandsinto fists,asasudden,fiercelyintenseurgetosinkherfingersintohislush,tawnylockswashedoverher.Herpulseskitteredand sheswallowedaroundthelumpsuddenlyconstrictingherthroat “Deuceitall,”shegrumbled,deeplyirritatedatherreaction toRainville’s appearance.“That gentleman is acad.”Toemphasizeher words toherself,lestsheforgetbecausehewas so blastedbeautiful,sherotatedherheadandscowleddirectlybackattheDukeofSomerton
Nora rolled her eyes in annoyance and returned her attention forward, noting the closeness of Park Street from the townhouse’s front step Afine location the duke enjoyed Made her furious Why did the most entitled of men also get to possessthemostbeautifullysituatedhomes?
Truly,lifewascruel.
Fortunately,Norahadaplantoeventhescalessome.
“You’renotgoingtotellmewhatyou’reabout,areyou?”Lottieshookherheaddisapprovingly,andherwheat-tonedhair fluttered abouther quietlyprettyface. “Shall Istop and inquire withthe duke directlyas to the nature ofyour ill regard for him?Perhapshewillbemoreforthcomingthanyou”Hookingathumboverhershoulderatnumber32astheypassed,Lottie smiledsweetlyatherwiththethreat.
KnowingthatLottiewasamostliteralsortandwouldtrulyseekthedukeout,Norabitbacktheurgetostickhertongueout at the duke’s home in a display of purely juvenile behavior and sighed instead, explaining, “Rainville behaved in a most ungentlemanlywayseveralweeksago,andI’mstillquiteenragedoverit”
Lottie gasped, a gloved hand flyingto the chestofher modestlystyled printed blue walkingdress, and she stopped and wentstillasstoneonthebustlingsidewalknearthecornerofParkStreet.“Hedidn’t ” “No, he did not” Notthat Never that Rainville was arrogantand deserved a giantdose ofhumility, butNora knew he would never.
Oh, she had heard of his escapades. Heard the whispers. Opera singer, French widow, American heiress Lord Bemberly’s wife Thelistwenton
“Then what, pray tell, did Rainville do to you that was so terrible? For he has never been anything but the perfect gentlemanduringourinteractions.”
TheycametoastopattheintersectionofParkandUpperBrookStreet,HydeParkgloriouslylushandinvitingjustcross the way, beckoningto her. Squintingagainst the glare of sunlight reflectingoff the glossypaint of a passingcarriage, Nora lookedupanddownParkStreetfortheiropeningtocross “Ifyoumustinsistuponknowing,”shehuffed,annoyedatLottie’s insistentquestioning,andnoddedatthedriverofasmallhackashebroughthishorsetoastopforthetwoofthemtopass.She smiledattheyoungdriverandtookastepontothehard-packeddirtroad.“Hesawmeataplace he deemedunacceptableand bodilycarriedmefromitlikea…a barbarian,”sheblurtedwithafuriousgestureofherhand.“Asifhehadtheright!”
“That doesn’t sound like the duke!” Lottie gasped again and glanced back over her shoulder, her blue bonnet ribbons dancingwiththemotion “Areyoucertainyoudidnotmistakehisintention?”
“Trustme,”Noragrowled,latchingontohersister’swristasLottiegawkedbehindheratRainville’stownhouse.Tugging heracrossParkStreet,shewenton,“Therewasnomistakinghisintentionsortheblatantlyoffensiveactofhistossingmeover his shoulder. As if I was nothingmore thana sackof flour. Not a humanbeingwithmyownpersonhood, myownrights.” Whichwerestill hers,untilshemarried.Carenzahadtaughtherthat.
“DidIhearsomeonespeakmyname?”calledoutadeep,amusedvoicefromseveralfeetbehindthem “Noooooo,” Nora groaned softly, curling her hands into fists as her step faltered. Squeezing her eyes tightly shut, she wishedferventlyfor Rainville tojust well,justpass her by,or turnaround,or perhaps disappear altogether Everysingle interactionwiththearistocratendedpoorly.Hadhenotlearnedbynowtheywerebestoffnotspeakingatalltoeachother?
Whymust womensurrender to the cage forced uponthembyself-servingmenwho wanted the world to belongonlyto them?Toocowardlytosharespacewiththefemalesexforfeartheymightbebestedbysomethingtheywantedsodesperately, thatthepowerawomanaloneheldoverthembecameaneviltosquash toownwithtotalcontrol.Towantsomethingandfear itwithequal measure, whenthe obvious answer was simplyto provide itrespectand autonomy, roomto breathe Thatwas men’sburdenthattheylaiduponthemselves.
Poor,pitifulthings.
“Notevenalittle,”Noragrumbledatherownsarcasm,wantingtoignoreRainville YetSocietyexpresslyforbadeherfromdoinganythingotherthaninhalingasteadyingbreath,squeezingherfiststight,and sayingwithfalsecheerthroughgrittedteeth,“YourGrace,”asthedukeappearedbesideherinhisenormous,goldenglory Lion-esque,the ton calledtheDukeofSomerton. Itpainedherthatshecouldnotobjecttothedescriptor.
Everyshadefrombronzetopalegold,Rainville’shaircurledlooselyabouthisheadincasualdisarraylikeagreatlion’s mane, endingincurls justabove the collar ofhis jacket. And his eyes suchanunusual goldenamber theywere. Like rich
clover honeydappled withbright, sunnycitrine stone flecks. She could recall the exactshade ofthemwithabsolute clarity withoutevenlookingathim.Yetasunique andyes, lion-esque ashiseyeswere,itwasthewaythedukemovedthathad earned himthe apt adjective Powerful and prowlingand graceful Beautyand strengthand grace wrapped up inone often arrogant,restlessDukeofSomerton.
“Well,well,ifitisn’tthedelightfulCastleburysisters!LadyNora,LadyLottie,howexcellenttoseeyouthisfineday”Oh, Rainvillesaidthewords,butthe meaning wassoverydifferent.Hewasashappytoseeherasshewashim.
“Ah,”RainvillemurmuredfromentirelytooclosebesideNora Oneofthelargestmenshehadeverseen,theduketowered over her withhis annoyinglybroad,muscular shoulders,nearlycastingher incomplete shadow.“Thenthatis mostcertainly whereIheardmyselfmentioned”
“Assuredly,” Nora ground outinfake agreement, her jaw tightenoughto crack. His verypresence grated. Too much it wastoomuch.Hispresencedominatedhersenses.
“Excellent!” Rainville cheered, hands clasped behind his backas he continued to stroll alongbeside her, keepingpace easilywhenshe quickened at Grosvenor Gate, eager to dashdownone of the manyoffered paths and evade his unwanted company “Mysister,Claire,willbegreatlypleasedtohearofyouradmirationfortheflowers,assheistheoneresponsible forthegarden.”
“How is your dear sister,Your Grace?”Lottieinquired,her facealightwithgenuineinterest.“Ithas beenages sincewe havehadthepleasureofhercompany!”
“Your mount?” Nora’s green eyes widened in surprise. “Do you mean that hulking beast with the abundant pastern featheringandheadthesizeofacarriagewheel?”
Rainville laughed, his strange golden eyes lighting with delight as he looked down at her. “Oh, how Cinnamon Sticks wouldadorebeingdescribedinsuchaway!”
Nora’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “That enormous horse is named Cinnamon Sticks?” A mighty creature suited to carryingknightsofoldandtheirweightyarmor,thehorseappearedfartoointimidatingtopossesssucha cute name
“Praytell,whatbreedisyourmount,YourGrace?I’venotseenonequitelikehimhereinLondon,”Lottieinquiredasthey continued their stroll, the duke now included in the promenade Rather, he had included himself And oh, how the good townspeoplenoticedaswell,cuttingthemcovertglancesastheypassedbyandwhisperingfeverishlytooneanother.
Eachmandeserveditwhenshesingledthemouttolearnalessoninvulnerability,exposure.Toknow andexperiencethe powerless life of women. To have choice takenaway. To be objectified, mocked. To be made somethingless thana sacred beingworthyofself-possession.
Tobecompletelyunderthecontrolandwhimofanother.
Her paintings of theminthe nude forced the worst of the ton’s mento live througha moment intime where something beyondtheircontrol,someone,dictatedtheirlifeexperience andnotonlydisrespectedthembutmadethemaspectacletothe worldatlargeintheprocess Suchwasthelifeofawoman So,Noraflippedthepage,tookcontrolback Forherself Forthe littlegirlsgrowingupundertheinequity,theoppression.Forladiesaroundtheworldforcedintoservitudeinonefashionor anothersimplyforpossessingasexualorganbetweentheirthighsthatwascovetedbeyondmeasurebymostmen Norasoughtjusticeforthemallinherownsecretway.
BustlingwithpedestriansoutenjoyingtheperfectLondonweather,thewalkingpathsuddenlyfeltfartooconstricting,far too public, for her liking. There was LadyDuttonand her three daughters over bythe benchchattinganimatedlywithLady Fennelwick.ThegrouphadmostassuredlynoticedRainvilleaccompanyingherandhersister,fortheykeptstaringwhiletrying topretendtodootherwise
Oh, blast it all.
Nora stopped mid-stride and spuntoward the goldenbehemothinfancypeacock-blue velvet Always the showman, that one,withhisdecadentstyling.“Shouldyoulikesomething?”Tippingherhead way backandsquintingagainstthebrilliantsun, sheraisedabrowinquestionattheduke “Orareyouheresimplytomakeanuisanceofyourself?”
“I’ll show you sting,” Nora muttered, clenching her hands. But then she recalled all the curious eyes around themand forcedasmile “Suchamarveloussenseofhumoryoupossess,YourGrace”
Never, not ever before, had Rainville concerned himself with her presence at any event other than his one vehement refusalofherrighttoenjoyanightoutattheestablishmentofherchoosing,intheLondonneighborhoodofherchoosing,when hehadcarriedheroverhisshoulderfromtheMeadowlarkTavern.Butcertainly,hehadnevercaredabouta ton event.
Somethingtuggedathermind,andNoraslowedherpaceonceagainandslidaglanceoverhershoulder Rainvillestood tall and powerful and bronzed and her tongue stuckto the roofofher mouthand her throatwentdry. How could one man possesssomuchmasculinebeauty?Especiallyamanshedetestedsoverily Life’scruelty,tobesure “WhydoyouaskwhetherIshallbethereornot?”
THE TRAP WAS laid Well,rather,thetrapwaslaidaswell asonecouldlayatrap Jossdeeply,profoundlyhopeditworked The success ofhis theatre depended uponhis reputationremainingimpeccable, unblemished to anydegree Perfectlike that firstwhiteblanketofsnowdrapingovertheSomersetcountryside.
Certain things affected a man’s reputation; others did not. Enjoying the company of ladies did nothing to besmirch his Somertonnamewithinvestors,foradukeinhisprimewasexpectedtoindulgeinthebenefitsofhiselevatedstation No,his dalliancesdidnotconcernhim.Anudepaintingofhimdid.
The scandal itwould cause Good God, the trouble!Joss could onlyimagine the headache And his investors? Those silentpillarsoffinancialsupporthesorelyneeded?Gone.
Havinga foolhardyspendthriftfor a father was analreadyglaringand permanentmarkagainsthimifthattruthwere to come to light, though thankfully no one knew aside from Winston and most likely the entire household staff, because Winston’smouthflappedlikeaflaginthewind.However,tonightJosscouldnotfaulthimforit.
“Shallwefindamoreprivateplacetocontinueourconversation,YourGrace?”ThistimeSeraphinasomehow movedin sucha waythat her breasts cradled his arm, squeezinghimwithher generous mounds. Slowly, ever so slightly, Seraphina loweredher bodya fraction,andthenstraightenedonce again,strokingher breasts subtlyagainsthim.“Shouldn’tyouprefer somethingelsebetweenthese?”shewhisperedsuggestively.
Normallyhe would have The widowed countess was a skilled and creative lover, physical perfectionwithher sablecoloredeyesanddarkhairsuchastrikingcontrasttoheralabasterskin.Jossknewhernipplesblusheddarkrosewhenshewas aroused
The acutely aggravating Lady Nora Castlebury Intensely irritating Feverishly frustrating He could go on all day with alliterativetermsdescribingthewillfulchit.
Acrossthecrowdedballroom,LadyNoralaughed,hersmileopenandwithoutartifice,andhisgazeswoopedlikeahawk to the exposed columnof her throat, so graceful and damnablykissable Anybloodydandycould plant their lips uponthat vulnerablefleshiftheychose.Didshenothaveotherdresses?Onesless…pretty?
Amotionacross the roomnear analcove filled withlushpotted plants gained his attention. At his advanced height he easilyscannedthetopofthecrowd,findingthesourceofthemotion Oneofhisfootmen,Giles,motionedagain Jossnodded back.Allexitsweresecure.IfanyonelefttheballroomortheClaremoore’shouseinanyway,hismenwouldtakenote,send himword,andfollow HewasnotlettingAnonymousgetawaytonight
SweatbeadedatJoss’s temples,curlingthe hair there.Hotter thanthe WestIndies inJuly,the ballroombarelybreathed. Sconces and chandeliers dripped candles inexcess, the expansive roomshimmeringinthe abundant light as the ton milled aboutandmingled,cupsofsparklingchampagnepunchinhand.
“Why,thankyouforsuchcompliments,YourGrace”Thesmug,dark-hairedmarquessbeamedandtuggedatablackdress jacket sleeve. Average height and lean, Lambert did not look like much. Yet he was an expert fencer. More than once the marquesshaddisplayedimpressiveskillwhileduelingatOtto’s,agentlemen’sclubofwhichtheywerebothmembers “I’ve highhopesforthatoneinthecomingyear.”Eyessharpandcunning,themarquesscuthimasmile.“Comeroundaftertheraces nexttimeandI’llintroduceyoutoher.I’mratherkeentodiscussyourtheatreventureindetail,aswell.Yes,docomebyand we’llmakeaproperoccasionofit.”
“Sounds capital,” Joss murmured, his attention quite distracted by the flashes of copper-blonde weaving through the crowdedballroomtotheedgeswhereLadyNorastopped,andJosswatchedasshecranedherneckaboutasifsearchingfor someone.
While that alone was cause for speculation, it was her expression that was most telling Why, the lady appeared quite pleasedwithherself.Smug,even,ifsuchadescriptorcouldbeappliedtoalady.Which,ofcourse,itcould.
LadyNoraCastleburywassmugnesspersonified.
What,praytell,hadherinsuchastate?
Alarmbellsringinginhismind,Jossglancedaboutthecrowdedballroom,notingthelooseninglaughterasthe ton indulged freelyinthe renowned Claremoore champagne Over the course ofthe lastthirtyminutes, the crowd had shifted frompolite tones and subtle enjoymentto outrightlaughs and enthusiastic hand gestures. Betweenthe steadyflow ofchampagne and the musicalquartetandthedancing,theattitudewasgreatlyloosenedfromwhencetheballbegan Indeed,the ton wascollectively inebriated.Distracted.
“Ah,Iseehowitis.”Themarquessclappedhimonthebackwithachuckle.“Gotoit,man.Tendtoyourbusiness.” KnowingthatLadyLingbottomsuffered notatall for male companionship kepthimfromfeelingguiltyfor whathe was abouttodo.“Walkwithme,mylady?”
His gaze once againdrawnto Nora, he nearlyfaltered whenhe noticed the glow of her skinunderneaththe chandelier lights,sodelicate,soflawless Theexposedskinofhercleavagesentheatsnakingthroughhisbelly Blast it, why?
LadyNorawasnothingbutaheadache.Bestputhimoutofhismiserynow,ifthatwasthedirectionhisdesirenowaimed. Bettertoremindhisbodyofthepleasurestobefoundwithavarietyofladies,notsimplyone.Hecouldstartrightnow with LadyLingbottomand positionhimselftobetterseewhatLadyNorawasupto.
Jossreturnedhersmilewithhisown,quickandsharp,scanningthecrowdedballroomagain pastlushandheavybrocade curtains, beyond the side tables overflowing with bouquets of exotic hothouse flowers, and through the sea of flushed and powdered beau monde searchingforLadyNora.Likeastringconnectedthem,hefoundher,drawnbysomethinginvisible.A gutfeeling,perhaps?
Precisely at that moment, like prey catching scent of a predator nearby, Lady Nora whipped her copper-blonde head around,andhergazelockedfromacrosstheballroomwithhis.Lockedandheldasshetiltedherchinatadefiantangle.Her shoulders,encasedinexquisitesilkofthecreamiest,palestyellow,drewback,appearingtautasabowstringasshestaredhim down.
But she does, his mind whispered And instantly, Lady Nora was there in his head, not only his vision Beautiful and entirelytoobold.
Joss growled under his breath, “No.” Withefforthe broke eye contactand smiled downathis companion. “Youare so lovelyavisage,mylady,socaptivating.”
“Ha!” Lady Lingbottomtittered as he navigated theminto a heavily curtained alcove, where a large potted palmplant obscuredthemfromview “Smooth-tongueddevil Iknowyourgame”
Truly, LadyLingbottomdidn’t possess a clue what his true intent was. For Joss could now see, unobstructed fromthis vantagepoint,alltheballroomexits and acertainstrawberryblonde Itniggledathim,thewayNorakeptlookingabout,her attentionstoppinghereandthereuponthoseinattendanceasifsheweregaugingtheirmoods.
Suddenly, Joss noticed one of his men trying to gain his attention from across the ballroom Raising a brow back in question,Josstriedagaintoprythecountessfromhisside,hisgoldengazesteadyonhisman,notingthedirectionhegestured. “Iamaduke,mylady.Itwouldbeunseemlyofmetobearsuchamark.”
Followinghis man’s direction, Joss cursed softly. “Damnit.” Instantlyonhighalert, he watched as LadyNora shared a covertglancewithanunknown,passingservant,noddedonce,andbegantoedgeherwaytowardthefarsetofdoorsleadingto thebalcony.“Whatareyouabout?”hemurmured.
“I am trying without success to engage your passions” Lady Lingbottom pouted and withdrew her lips from his jaw “Whateverhasyourattentionthiseveisaformidablefoe.OneIclearlycannotwinagainst.”Steppingfromhim,thecountess added, “I’ve too muchpride to beg.” Trailinga glove-covered finger downthe center ofhis chest, she tookanother step in retreat “Youknowwheretofindmewhenyourheadisonceagainclear”
Waryatthe seeminglygracious retreat, and knowingthe countess well enough, Joss held suspicionthatshe would seek retributionforanyperceivedslightinthefuture Butultimately,hedidnotcare “Apologies,”heoffered “Mymindisrestless thisnight.”
“Might regret that,” Joss mused aloud, already forgetting her, sharply focusing his gaze across the room on a certain
Castlebury stealthily slinking her way to the balcony doors. With each group she passed, Nora mimicked their behavior, blendinginunnoticed.Likeachameleon.
He should have known. “Ofcourse it’s her.” Itmade perfectsense ifhe thoughtaboutit. And thinkingaboutitgave him feelings Big,angry,how-dare-shefeelings
Withemotions risingrapidlyinhis chest, Joss signaled his manto remainbehind and moved fromthe alcove, intenton followingNora. He tookseveral steps, searchingthe ballroomto note ifanyone else behaved irregularly, notingbrieflythat LadyLingbottomhadalreadyreplacedhiscompanywithayoungbuckintoo-tighttrousers Good Savedhimaheadache
“Where did yougo, minx?” Scanningthe stone balconyand the dozenor so people millingabout, Joss found his frown deepeningwhenhe did notimmediatelysee LadyNora Searchingpastthe balconyinto the night, he was aboutto curse in frustrationwhenhespottedaflashofpalesilkmovethroughthegardenanddisappearbehindatall,decorativehedge.
“Thereyouare.”Takingthebalconystepstwoatatime,thetailsofhisblackdressjacketflappinggentlybehindhim,Joss grittedhisteethandsetoffintothemoonlitgardenafterher “Reckless,headstronggirl,”hegrowledashestalkedthroughthe lush,fragrantbackgardenofClaremoore House.Gravel crunchedsoftlyunderfootas he strode downthe path.“Whatis she thinking?”Theblastedwomanwaseitheroutinthegardenforatrystorshewasquitepossiblytheelusiveculprithe’dsetout tocatch.Itwasunclearwhichpossibilityhepreferred.
“Your Grace!” she cried weakly, and hid the canvas behind her back. Her eyes were huge, darkpools inthe moonlight. “Youstartled me!Idid nothear youcoming. Iammerelyoutfor a stroll. Some freshair, yousee,” she stammered, clearly flustered.
Instead,Joss leaneddownuntil hisnosewas nearlytouchinghers.“LadyNora,”hegrowled,closeenoughtoher thathe could feel the warmthofher breath, and he snaked a hand around behind her back Latchingonto the unframed canvas and snatchingitfree,Jossgrowledwithopenmenace,“OrshouldIsay, Anonymous?”
Chapter Four
P
ANIC SLICED THROUGH Nora,splittingher intwo Onepartofher wantedtograbthepaintingback,toss itintothetall hedge behindher,andpretendinnocence Theother part thepartthat,moreoftenthannot,gother inheaps oftrouble wantedto clawandhissandfight.Shewasnotwrong forbelievingmen’sprivilegewasbeyondthepale,beyondallacceptability.
“You know,” the duke suddenly mused, altering his tone, turning contemplative as he shifted a boot-covered foot and relaxedhisshoulderssome “Ifyouhadwishedtogainmyattention,thereareotherwaystogoaboutit”
Well now, thatwas beyond insulting. She slapped his forearmagainas tears blurred her vision. Oh, how angryhe made her!“It’s not theonlyreason!”Norashouted,suddenlyquiteoverwhelmedatthestateofher life’s experience Womenwere toldwhattodo,whentodoit,andhowtodoit.And,bygoodness,womenweretoldtheirveryownfeelingsandmotivations byanother bya man.Asifwomencouldnotpossessathoughtorfeelingthatwasnotexpresslychosenbythem.“Howcould you,a man,knowanythingatallaboutwhatI’mtrulyfeeling?”Norashookherhead “Youcannot Allyoumaydois dictate whatyoubelieveIshouldfeelandthink.WhatyoubelieveIam thinkingandfeeling.Butyoudonothaveaclue,notaninkling. Allyoupossessisarroganceandasuperiorattitude”
Norawasnotfooled.“Yes,thatisabsolutelythewayofit!Youmarchinhereallfancywithyourtitleandyourclothingand your privileged male status, and you ” she reached for the paintingshoved into the topiarynear her head, buthe yanked it away “startmakingdecisionsandascribingfeelingsandactionsuponus.”
“Us?” the duke inquired quietly, his face and bodystill far too close for her liking His presence was too big, too male, too…Well,justtooeverything.
“Yes, us Women,youdolt”Washersexthateasytodismissandforget?
“Methinks youprotestmuch, mylady.” This time a ghostofa smile creptover his lips;their finelysculpted beautywas illuminatedintheglimmeringmoonlight.“Whyisthat?”
Rainville stood quiet for a moment, seeminglystunned byher outburst. “So, your response is that youpaint humiliating images ofthemenofthe ton and publiclydisplaythem? For what? Enjoyment? Embarrassment?” he demanded to know, his gazeintenseandsteadyonher.
“To show the worst offenders what it’s like!” Nora cried out, the injustice overwhelmingher She swooped downand snatchedthecanvas,thenbundleditprotectivelyagainsther chestasemotionssweptover her,mindlesstowhichsideofthe paintingwaspointedouttowardtheduke
“Iknowwhatmypaintinglookslike,”Norasnapped,crossingherarmsdefensivelyoverherchestandglancingaboutthe late-night summer garden, noting the abundant flowers flanking the garden paths. With the full moon above and the balmy breeze,itappearedquitethebeautifulnighttobestrollingaboutthegarden
“WhyshouldIlookatapaintingthatImyselfmade?”Noraknewwhatwasthere.Rainvillenudeandloungingbackonhis elbows,onelegraised,hisgenitaliaondisplay.Thedukewassmilingathisgawkers,ahalf-circleofladiesopenlyassessing the duke’s appearance, their expressions ranging from curiosity to disdain to mockery to leering. And he well, he was completelyoblivioustoitall,likeafool “IknowwhatIwasfeeling,whatIwasthinking WhatIcomposed”
“Theartist’seye,then?”Hiswordsskimmedoverhercheek,caressedherneck “Yes.”Allsubjectswerecarefullystudiedforexactexecutionwiththebrush.Thedukewasnoexception. SuddenlyRainville was close enoughthat his broad chest brushed against her shoulder. “That’s how youso accurately depictedthesizeofmyco ”
“They’renotjustgawking,andit’snotwomen It’sonewoman.Ithinkyou’vebeenkeepingmanysecrets,mylady.” Panic unfurled and threaded throughNora’s veins What onearthwas the duke talkingabout? She had no other secret “They’rejustrandom,made-upwomen,”sheinsisted.
“They’re you,”heclaimed Nora gasped. “Youlie!” She bent low to examine the women’s painted faces, and her heart nearlyexploded whenshe peeredcloseandsawherownfacereflectedbackather Differenthaircolors,differenteyecolors,butsameface Rainville wasright.Itwasher.“I…Ididn’tknow.”Herlipsfeltnumbfromshock.
“Thenyoushouldnothavepaintedyourselfwatchingmeworkmycock,minx.FornowIknowyoursecretfantasy,andit will fuel mine fromhere forward. Tell me,” he growled as his hands raced up her ribcage to cup her full breasts. “Did you touchyourselfwhenyouimaginedmynakedbody?”
“Ah, hell,” Rainville swore under his breath, thenslowlystraightened fromher and turned to lookatthe suddencrowd. “LadyLingbottom,”hedrawled,ahardnoteunderlyinghisvoice “Everyoneelse”
“Caretoexplainyourself,YourGrace?”
Norarecognizedherfather’sicyvoice,anddreadpooledheavyinthepitofherbelly Oh no Oh no, oh no
“Notespecially,” the duke replied, his tone deceptivelylight. Interestingthathe did notpushawayfromher. Instead, he heldsteadybyherside.“Privatemomentandall.”
“Thenthereisnothingtodiscuss,andIshall seeyouatour meetingfirstthingtomorrow morning,”her father statedwith frostydetachment.
JossassessedtheEarlofCastleburyashestoodbesideanornatewoodendeskinthearistocrat’sstudyatTiptonHouse,the grandest home inall Mayfair. “That is not enough.” For himto marryNora Castlebury, the earl needed to do better. “Your daughterwassettoruinme.”
“It’s Your Grace” No matter that he should not have kissed the infuriating chit, Joss refused to be demeaned by an aristocratheoutranked.“Anditwasnotanintentionalruination.”
“Oh,well,thatmakesitallratherfine,then,doesn’tit?”Castleburyclippedthetipofacigar,clampeditbetweenhisteeth, andlitthetip.“Doyoutakemeforafool, Your Grace?”
“Notatall, my lord.Iknowyoutobeanexcellentbusinessmanandstrategist.”WhichwasexactlywhyJosshadscooped LadyNoraupattheMeadowlarkbeforeherirasciblebehaviorcouldtarnishtheearl’sreputation LordCastleburywashighon hislistofpotentialinvestors.Ancienttitle,deeppockets,andakeeninterestinnewbusinessventures.OfcourseJosswould approachhim Nowseemedaratherexcellenttime,allthingsconsidered ThoughhetrulyhadnochoicebuttomarryNora,he couldleverageasmuchashepossiblycouldinthebargaining.
Thoughhisgutburnedatthethoughtofmarriagetoanyone,letalonethemostaggravatingwomanofhisexperience,Joss couldnotingoodconsciencerefusetodowhatwasright.Iffornootherreasonthantobedifferentthanhisfather.Destroyinga youngwoman’s future and tarnishingthe reputationof her entire family’s name would not have slowed the former Duke of Somertonforevenamoment.Thedukeandonlythedukehadmattered.
“Tell me, Castlebury, what would youhave done inmysituation? Your daughter is utterlyfrustratingand defiant and… beautiful.Whatwouldyouhavedoneif,say,youhaddiscoveredadesirablewomanwithascandalous,arousingpaintingin hergrip?Apaintingof you. Andyousuddenlyrealizedherinnocentdesire?Andyouwerealoneandtherewasmoonlightand fragrant flowers and a titillating argument that stirred the senses?” Joss raked a hand through his thick golden tresses and swore.“Deuceit,yourdaughterisaforceofnature.”
The roomfell silentbefore the earl released a long, long sigh His pale blue eyes thawed justthe tiniestdegree “First Carenza,andnowthis.Itellyou,Duke,thesegirlsaregoingtobethedeathofme.”
“Ibelieve you.” Joss inhaled deep and scanned the luxurious studyfor the sidebar. He needed a drink. “Care to share a brandy?” He founditbehindthe desk,andstrode onlong,powerful legs toit “MayI?” he asked,gesturingtothe bottles of spirits.
“Notatall take a seat” Castleburysethis cutcrystal snifter onthe glossysurface ofhis deskwitha slightclick “We mightaswellbecomfortablewhilewetussleoverthetermsofthismarriageagreementandNora’sdowry.”
Settlingintothedeepcushionsofthechair,Jossnodded.“Idon’tknowaboutyou,butIwouldratherthisbeacivilaffair.” “Agreed.Havingthreedaughtersisheadacheenough.Somuchfusstheybring. So much fuss. Shouldyoubeblessedwith
The thought of children had Joss blanching. “Look,” he started, crossing a booted foot across his knee and settling in comfortably “Webothknowthiswasanaccident”
“If I have to force my favorite daughter into marriage, there are worse societal connections than to a duke,” the earl admitted,leaningbackinhisdeskchair “Iwilluseittomyadvantage”
“Ah, butnotbefore Iuse this unfortunate situationto my advantage.” Joss uncrossed his leg, leaned forward, elbows on knees,andleveledhisgoldengazeontheearl “Yourdaughterhadapainting Ofme Nude Withthesoleintentandpurposeof humiliatingme.”
Castleburyblew outa breath. “Well, thatchanges the situationa bit.” He brushed a hand across his mustache againand scowled.“ItseemsI’vetwoscandalsinonewiththatgirl.”Ashespoke,hisfacebegantoblotchandturnanunflatteringshade ofred “Damnher!”Ameatyhandcurledintoafistandthumpedangrilyagainstthedesktop UneaseskimmedupthebackofhisneckasJosstookanotherslowsip,watchingtheearlstrugglewithhistemper.Thiswas a side to Castleburyhe had notyetseen One thatwas less thanflattering Nora’s furious words fromearlier sprangto his mind,andhesawit,understoodtheseedofheroutrage.Ithadmostassuredlysproutedfromherownfather.
“Allright,Duke,itseemsIhavearatherlargescandaltoavertandhavelostanybargainingpowerImayhavepossessed. Stupidgirl,causingsuchgrief.Whatareyourterms?”Theresignationintheearl’stonewasunderscoredbyahardnoteoffury. His terms.How Josslovedthosetwolittlewords.“YouareawarethatIownRhodesTheatreonTavistockStreetinthe GardenDistrict”
“WHAT WERE YOU thinking, Nora?” Lady Castlebury shouted, and threw her hands up in dismay. “What on earth were you possibly thinking?” Wavingher hands wildlyabouther, the countess franticallypaced across the plushplum-colored rugin
Afeeling, hot and possessive, shot through the pit of Nora’s stomach, and she snapped, flinging herself back onto her oversizedbed.“Buthedid not kissyou.”
“He is ratherpretty,”offeredCarenzaasshestoodatthelargedoublewindowsoverlookingthedarkbackgardenofTipton House
“You’re here for moral support, Car. Not to make this terrible, awful situationworse.” Nora hefted herselfup onto her elbows,rustlinghersilkballgownwiththemovement
“Idon’t wishhimfor myself,” her youngest sister replied witha shake ofher head “Iwas merelytryingto lightenthe seriousnessofthemoment.NotthatRainvilleisn’tpretty,mindyou,becauseheis.Butit’shisinterestintheatrethatintrigues memost.”
“Then you marryhim,” Nora grumbled, swingingher feetover the side ofher four-poster bed and comingto a stand. “I don’twanthim.”
“YoushouldhaveconsideredthatbeforeyoukissedhiminthegardenatClaremooreHouse!”LadyCastleburybarkedwith a hand pressed dramaticallyto her forehead as she continued to pace. “There is absolutelynothingto do now butmarrythe dukeandsaveusallfromruination”
Nora scoffed and wrapped her arms around herself, huggingtightas emotions poured throughher, senther careeningoff balance.“Youdon’tknowhimlikeIdo.”
“True,”Carenzarepliedlightly “Iknowhimbetter”
Thoughshe wanted to argue withher sister, Nora could not. Itwas true thatCarenza knew the duke quite well fromher secretlifeasthefamousLondontavernsinger,theMaskedMeadowlark.FormonthsRainvillehadpursuedhertoperformin histheatre,andshehadfinallyagreed Herfirstperformancetherehadbeenextraordinary “Didyouagreewithhisnewidea?” shedemandedtoknow,feelingquitesuddenlyasifeveryoneelseintheworldknewthismanthatshemustmarryfarbetterthat shedidherself Thesensationrankledandunsettledhergreatly “Whatidea?” Lottie chimed infromher spotonthe bed. The tip ofher long, wheat-colored plaitbrushed the amethysttonedbedcover
“In fact, Damon and the duke are decent friends now, Mother. He came with me to offer support to both Nora and Rainville.”
“Givenhis penchant for discoveringsecrets, how did your husband not uncover this one before it was too late?” Lady Castleburystopped pacingand senther displeasure careeningtoward her oldestdaughter. “Itwould have beenhelpful to us all”
Carenza tipped her head to the side, and a blonde curl fluttered around her neck. “Are you blaming Damon for not predictingtheir kiss?” She shookher head and smiled gentlywiththe question “Thatis notwhathe does, Mother No one couldhavepredictedthatNorawouldkisstheduke.I’dwagernotevenNoraknewitwouldoccur.”
“He’lldowhatisright,”Carenzareiterated “Rainvilleisanentitled,spoiledduke,yes Butheisonewithaconscience” She held out a hand, and Nora went to it and wrapped it in hers, thankful for the comfort. Her sister leaned close and whisperedforherearsonly,“DonotforgetitwashewhohelpedwhentheRevivalistsattackedtheMeadowlarkTavernwhile Iwasthere.”
Norasqueezedheroldestsister’shandinreassuranceandplacedherheadonCarenza’sshoulder,callingout,“Weknow, Mama Shewasmerelymentioningtheduke’sveryfinecarriage,thatisall”
“Given the current circumstances, Mother, I do believe you will have the opportunity to ride in his fine carriage quite soon,”Lottiesaidcheerfully.“Itdoesonetremendousgoodtolookonthebrightsideofasituation,doesitnot?”
“Ihatethis,”NorawhisperedtoCarenza,herheadstilltuckedonhersister’sshoulder “Ihate him ”
“That’s the real reason Catamount isn’t here, you know.” Nora raised her head briefly, noting her mother in animated conversationwithLottie,andlowereditagaintocontinueinalowtone,“HerefusestobearoundFather.” “Iknow.”Carenzasighed.“Iknow.”Andshefellsilent,gentlyrubbingNora’sarm. “Ihave to do this, don’tI?” Nora whispered inresignation Itwasn’ta choice Ithad never beena choice, notfromthe momenttheirlipstouched,andothershadbornewitnesstoit.“Ihave tomarrytheduke.”
Theyeachraisedahandandpressedpalmstogetherbeforerepeatingontheothersidewiththeoppositehands Withevery brushofhishandagainsthers,breathhitchedinherchest andbythetimeNoraspunawayfromRainvilleshewasbreathless and jittery, with a vague sort of excitement shimmering within her For what, she knew not Only that it had bloomed the momentshefinishedherspinandcamebacktohim.Grewacute.
She methis moltenamber gaze and promptlylosther count, steppingonhis toes throughhis dress boot “So sorry,” she mumbled,hercheeksflaming.Itwasn’therfaultshe’dtripped!Rainvillehadbeenblessedwithphysicalperfection.Whenhe focusedthoseunusualdarkgoldeyesonher,rimmedwiththicksablelashes,sheforgothowtothink.Infuriatingtruth,that.
Nora tripped, breaking stride, and nearly fell. Rainville’s large, strong hand steady on her elbow kept her upright. Unnervedbyhistouchandcrudelanguage theycausedarestless,itchy,fieryfeelingtoflareinsideher sheyankedherarm freeandsnapped,“Your Grace. ”
“My lady,”heshotback “Quitethetemperyoupossess”
“I don’t have a temper,” she said, suddenly quite parched and hot under the chandeliers with so many dancing bodies pressedclose “Myfatherhasthetemper”
“Ah,afamilytrait,then.”
Iftheblastedmansmiledatherwithsuchasmug,mockingexpressionuponhisbeautifulcountenanceonemoretime,she was going to scream Or punch him Or both And not a single person in the world would blame her for it “You are not endearingyourselftome.”Thatwasthetruth.Tocompareherwithherfatherwasanegregioussin,tosaytheleast.
Notactperfect Notappearperfect Shemustbe perfect Orelseshamebefellherentirehouseandname ItwasforthosesortsofreasonsthatNoraexposedtheworstmaleoppressorswithherpaintings.Madethemexperiencea moment of frozen fear and humiliation, loss of control Perhaps it would foster change for the better, compassion for arrogancelivedandbredinignorance.Hereternalhopewastobeacreatorofchange.Womendeservedbetter. “Whathasyoustaringsointently?”
“Hmm?”NorablinkedanddrewherattentionbacktoRainville “I’msorry,YourGrace,didyousaysomething?” Somethingflashedinhis gaze,litthe goldendepths like a torch,andhe drew close withthe dance.“Youshouldcall me Joss”
“Becausewe’reabouttobecome very intimate,minx.”Andsuddenlyhewassmiling,awide,wickedsmilethatwhisked herbreathrightoutofherchest.
“Never!” she whispered fiercely, her stomachquiveringinanticipation, betrayingher Witha stubbornhitchofher chin, NorapushedoffRainville’shandwithhersandbegantospinaway,nervesandangerjostlingforresidenceinherchest.Asshe twirled,shecaughtsightofoneoftheCastleburyfootmennearthedrawingroomdoorswavingtoherbesidethepottedpalms, and it sent alarmringing through her. I forgot, she mouthed silently to him, her eyes wide and apologetic as she suddenly rememberedtheplanforthelastfinishedpaintingshehadmeanttorevealtonight Thathadneverhappenedbefore!Goodness, howhadsheforgottensoeasily?
“Oh,soit’sacceptabletohumiliateanothernoblemanifyou’renotpresenttowitnesshisdownfall Isthatit?”Theangerin Rainville’s tone had her spine snapping straight with defensiveness. “AmI to take it, then, that you wished to witness my demise?”
“Of course I did,” Nora snarled, quite suddenly feeling trapped and overwhelmed and perhaps a tiny bit remorseful. Unabletocommunicateacrossthedrawingroomeffectivelywiththefootman,shegaveupandloweredherhandtoherside.
“Congratulations,then,”Rainvilledrawledinadecidedlyfrigidtone.“Mydemiseisyourplatformforgreatersocialstatus and success. Well done, mylady. Well done.” The currentofanger runningunder his words sentspears ofunease shooting throughNora’sbelly
“It could be a marriage inname only. We need never see eachother againafter the wedding.” Yes, that could be quite acceptabletoher “Why,Ithinkthatcouldbeasplendididea,actually”
“Let themwatch” His free hand came up to cover hers as she wrapped it around his crooked elbow How dotingand endearingitappeared whenintruthNorafoundherselfunabletodisengagefromhisgrasp.Oh,theinfuriatingman!
“And also you,” the countess replied lightly, her attentiondirected at Nora. “What a coup for you, mydear, to catcha duke ”
Norastiffenedunderhishand “ConsideringmyfatherisoneofthemostpowerfulandconnectedmeninEngland,Irather doubt there are any concerns on the matter of who of us is truly the catch here,” Nora replied coolly, impressing him. It appearedthatnotonlydidhisfuturewifehaveabackbone,butalsothatshedidnotshyfromconfrontationwithhimoranyone Arareandrefreshingtrait,that.
“Ahyes,theEarlofCastlebury Suchastrongalliancethisengagementbringsbetweentwomostdistinguishedhouses We are all veryintrigued to know how itcame about, for itseems so sudden!” the countess exclaimed, and snatched a flute of champagnefromapassingservantincrisplyironedliverybeforedowningthecontentsinoneextendedgulp.
Her excellent performance did not fool Joss for a moment “Good evening, Lady Lingbottom” Cradling Nora’s glovecoveredhandinthecrookofhiselbow,heledherawayfromtheunpredictablecountessbeforeshecouldlashoutandstrike likeapoisonousviper.
“You,sirrah,are incorrigible,” Nora whisperedangrilyas he ledher towardthe drawingroomexitandtriedtopull her handfromhisgrip.“Sheisclearlyoneofyourwomen.”
“Mywomen?”Jossreplied,lipstwitchinginamusementasheheldhersteadytohim “Praytell,howmany women doyou believeIhave?”
“Jealous?”Josswatchedherwhilehevoicedthequestion,notingtheflushofcolorthatrushedoverhercheeks.“You are jealous,”heteased,apartofhimsecretlypleased Anotherpartwonderedjustexactlywhatitmeantthathewaspleasedabout it andfearedtheanswer.
“Iamnot jealous!”shehissed,shootingdaggersathimwithhermagnificentgreeneyes.“Ido not likeyou,andIdid not enjoyourkiss!”Suddenlyshelookedsharplyaround,spottedtheexitnearby,andhastenedthemthrough.“Here,Iwillprove it”
Heatunfurledandwarmedhis bloodas herealizedhewouldletNora prove it to himanywhere, anytime she wanted. In privateorinfrontofabloodyaudienceatRhodes,hecarednot,solongashermouthwasonhim
“Here we are,” Nora stated with grimresolution, and pulled himbehind a heavy brocade curtain to a tiny alcove that housedarathertall,uglyvaseandwasbarelywideenoughforhisbroadshoulders “Now you’llseehow Ireallyfeelabout yourkisses.”Withayankofhisstarchedcravat,shepulledhimtoherandplantedherlipssquarelyonhis.
Norasaggedagainsthim,herincrediblecurvesflushagainsttheridgedplanesofhisbody.“See,”shepantedafterdragging herlipsfromhis,herbeautifuleyesflutteringopen,dazed,andunfocusedwithpassion “Yourkissesdoabsolutelynothingfor me.” She looked at his mouth and slowly licked her lips, as if trying to capture every last taste of him. That she seemed unawareofheractionsmadeitevenmorepowerful Suchinnocentseduction ItsentluststraighttoJoss’sloinsandturnedhim tostone.
“Liar,” he whispered affectionately, strokinghis hands boldlyup the frontofher gownto cover her breasts. “Mykisses makeyouwet”
Abellowrosefromthedrawingroomsuddenly,cuttingthroughthepassionatehazesurroundingJoss.Hejerkedtohisfull height and turned his head, his attentionracingtoward the sounds coming fromthe drawing room, all excited, scandalized whispers,andexclamations.“Nora,”hegrowled,justknowingitwasherfault.
“Who did this? This is anoutrage!Thatis notme!Ido notlookso foolish!How dare anyone besmirchme Iwantthis personfoundnow!Oh,theywillpayforthis!Theywill pay!”
Asnicker,arushofhushedvoices,asmembersofthe ton eruptedatthenewscandal.
“I will have heads for this!”themarquessroared,andsomethinginhistonehadthehairsonthebackofJoss’sneckrising “Damnyou,”heswore,catchingthesatisfiedgleaminNora’seyesbeforeshecouldmaskit.Helatchedontohershoulders andbent,broughthisgazeevenwithhers “WhatinhellhasLambertdonetoyou?”
Color rushed her cheeks and her shoulders trembled slightlyunder his hands, butstill she tipped her chindefiantly, her peridotgreeneyesflashing “It’swhathedoestohisservants,rather Especiallythemaids He’s he’s vile, Rainville”
Doors crashed open, bouncing off the walls and rattling several expensive vases on their custompedestals. Through a slightcrackinthecurtain,afumingLordLambertstrodethroughintothehall,stillrantingandmakingthreats,ragecracklingoff hislitheframe Ashepassedby,JosshadamomentoftrueuneasewhenherealizedthatNoracouldbeinreal troublefrom retributionforherpaintings.IfnotLambert,thenanother.Anypeershe’dtargetedcouldseekvengeance.
