by Lisa Doughty
“I do not think anyone is the wiser about our time together, my lord, other than Emelia and Rodrigo. And, even so, I have not told them much. I have been diligent in my discretion.”
“That is not what I am referring to, love. To be blunt, I have been spilling my seed in you as much as could over the last few days. There is a strong possibility you could be carrying my child.”
Cordelia’s felt the blood drain from her face. How had she not thought of that? All the years at Fountain Abbey had taught her the plight a woman’s indiscretions. And, of an illegitimate child. Several had been left on the front stoop, and young unwed mothers often came to the sisters for help during their confinement. She had enjoyed helping to care for the babies until the sisters found homes for them. Cordelia’s heart sank. She would never give her child away like that, never! Nor would she trouble Rhys with such a burden, should it come to be.
“My lord, I…”
“Rhys. Cordelia, please! We are past formalities, don’t you agree?” He smiled, as if they were talking of the weather instead of such a weighty subject.
“Rhys. I would never burden you if…”
“Burden?” he snapped angrily.
In a flash his face changed, and he yanked her off horse onto his lap. Midnight pranced under them feeling Rhys’ irritation. Her mare threw her head but continued to walked beside them faithfully.
“Let me make something perfectly clear, Cordelia. My child will be born of my wife. Under no circumstance will I not take full responsibility for the making of my child or leave its mother to provide for it on her own, is that clear?”
“But surely, you must have…”
“Others? No Cordelia, I do not. I am well versed on how to prevent an unwanted child. There are no Drayson bastards, nor will there ever be one.”
Rhys’ grip around her waist was so tight she could barely move. She tried to turn in his arms. At first, he held fast, then eased enough for her to turn. His expression was stern, but concern was in his eyes.
“If you know how, then why didn’t you?”
“The first time I thought I would, but you would not let go of my hands and it was too late.” His face softened. “Then, I did not want to.”
“Are you saying you were trying to get me with child?”
“I think I was more of the mind that I wouldn’t be sorry if I did,” he confessed.
Cordelia turned her back to him to think. What did that mean? He wanted her with child, then she would be forced to marry him? Lord above, she wished he would speak plainly! She turned back, tried to hide her frustration, and was determined to understand what he was trying to say.
“Are you saying that you want to marry me, but only if I’m carrying your child?” she asked.
“Would you marry me if you weren’t?”
Her eyes widened and her mouth dropped open at his question! This was the last thing she had expected! Her heart jumped in her throat.
“Are…are you asking me to marry you?” she stuttered.
“At the risk of you bolting from me, yes. I am.”
“But you hardly know me.”
“I know what I want. We have something special Cordelia. Can you not feel it?” He squeezed her closer, to prove his point.
Cordelia now knew he heard her tell him she loved him, and although he had not said the words, this was his way of expressing his love in return. Tears welled in her eyes. He felt it too, thank god!
“Yes,” she whispered. He closed his eyes. When he opened them he cupped her cheek.
“Marry me.”
“But I could never make you give up your lifestyle…”
“There is nothing to give up, Cordelia. There’s only you for me now. Marry me, please,” he said, sincerely.
Cordelia’s eyes search his. They were full of apprehension. Could he mean what his words? Could he change his ways after all this time?
“But Rhys, I could never abide a husband that was unfaithful. You are used to your freedom, to have a variety…” Rhys chuckled but it died quickly and his face became stern again.
“Cordelia, I cannot change my past. It is true, I have experienced a lot of women in my life. But something has changed. Since I have met you, made love to you, it was if it was the first time.” He paused and cupped her cheek tenderly. “I cannot explain it. It was if my life was a hollow shell before and you have filled it. Now, I cannot imagine my life any other way. There will be no other for me Cordelia, whether you marry me or not. There is only you now. You are a part of me now and I need you. Please, marry me.” he pleaded and Cordelia felt the sincerity behind his words. It was as if he was describing her own.
“Oh Rhys. Kiss me.”
Cordelia threw her arms around his neck and pulled him to her. His mouth covered hers for a passionate kiss. She could not believe what she was hearing. Was this really happening? When the enormity of what she had just surrendered to hit, she abruptly pulled back.
“Wait! What of Rodrigo and Emelia? What of my estates? I couldn’t possibly abandon them! I just got them on their feet. They need me.”
“We will work out the details when I return from Charlesbourg. Was that a yes, then?”
Cordelia paused and looked at Rhys’ handsome face. He looked so vulnerable and expectant.
“Yes, yes!” She kissed him again. “But we cannot announce it until everything is sorted out. I would see Rodrigo and Emelia taken care of before I tell them. They are like family to me and I do not want them to have a moment of worry. Promise me.”
“When I get back from Charlesbourg, then? It will take about a week or so, if I can settle the labor dispute quickly. Is that enough time for you?” Rhys asked.
“I can live with that.” Cordelia smiled. His face was full of emotion as he slid his hand around to the nape of her neck.
“On second thought, I’m not sure I can wait that long.”
He pulled her in for a kiss. By the time they came up for air, they had arrived at the waterfall. It was beautiful, with flowers blooming around the small pond. A grove of trees shaded half the pond and the sound of the waterfall was magical. Rhys dismounted Midnight and lifted Cordelia down from the saddle. He kissed her before her feet hit the ground, and long after. They led the horses over for a drink, then sat on the boulders that surrounded the pond. Cordelia felt like she was in a dream. Everything seemed surreal. The way Rhys looked at her made her stomach feel funny. He leaned forward and kissed her cheek gently. She felt cherished. So, this was what it was like to be in love.
“The Duke has already asked me to court Esme,” Rhys said, once they got settled. “But I think he has already made up his mind to ask for her hand.”
“I think they will do well together,” Cordelia added.
“You would know,” he teased and started to lean in for another kiss. Midnight threw his head, catching their attention. Esme and the Duke came from around a grove of trees. Esme’s hair looked hastily put back together and her hat was missing. It was obvious that they had done more than talk during their alone time. Rhys lifted an eyebrow. “That is quite a gift you have, Cordelia. Tell me, did you know about us as well?”
“Actually, no. For some reason, I have no insight for myself. But Emelia predicted it.”
“Did she? I am not surprised.”
“Oh, this is beautiful!” Esme exclaimed, as she rode up. “How I wish I had thought to bring luncheon for us.”
“That is a lovely idea, Esme, but, unfortunately, I would not have been able to stay. I have to get back. There is much to oversee for the ball tonight,” Cordelia said, as she walked to her mare. “Perhaps next time you visit Middleton? Please stay and enjoy yourselves.”
“I must return as well. I have business to attend to,” Rhys stated. He nodded to the Duke, indicating it was time to go. The Duke nodded respectfully in return.
Rhys lifted Cordelia into her saddle and held her as she settled. Cordelia put her hand over his and squeezed before he let go. He rewarded her
with one of his rakish smiles. He was her fiancé! Soon to be her husband Cordelia thought as she appreciated his handsome face. She felt like the luckiest woman alive.
“Will we be visiting Middleton again Rhys?” Esme asked, watching their exchange.
“Most definitely,” he answered quickly, not taking his eyes off hers.
Esme sucked in her breath and smiled at the Duke. He winked at her. Apparently, Emelia had been right, she was the only person who had been blind.
The short ride back was filled with light-hearted banter between she and Esme. It was obvious that she was taken with the Duke and happy for her brother. It was hard not to stare at Rhys as he rode ahead, talking with the Duke about the horses. They were impressive beasts, to be sure. She could see why the Duke was interested.
“Where did you purchase your horses, Rhys?” Rodger asked.
“Moreland. It’s south of here, close to the coast. Their horseflesh is second only to Sheffield’s.”
“Ah, Sheffield’s Friesians are hard to obtain to be sure. Even I am on the waiting list for a stallion, and I know the Marquess Talbert through the Duke of Grafton.”
“I can offer you an introduction to Viscount Moreland. He is getting on in years, but he knows his horseflesh.”
“Did you say the Viscount Moreland?” Cordelia cut in, as the name caught her attention.
“Yes, do you know him?” Rhys slowed Midnight beside her as the Duke pulled up beside Esme.
“No, but I received a missive that he would like an audience with me next week. I wanted to know more of him before I agreed to meet,” she informed Rhys, who immediately scowled at the news.
“Do you think he is looking for a wife?” Esme asked.
“That is the usual reason for requesting and audience with me,” Cordelia pointed out.
“The man has to be in his eighties, Cordelia. Why would he wish to take a wife this late in life?”
“It is more common place than you think, Rhys. He may want a companion for his later years,” Cordelia explained.
“As long as it is not you.” he said, under his breath, but everyone heard. Esme giggled.
“Of course not,” Cordelia said reassuringly, and put her hand on his arm. “I am not available.”
He picked up her hand and kissed it. She smiled warmly at him. Her life was about to change. She would have Emelia attend these interviews with her so Rhys would not have to worry. How else was her life to change? Where would they live? So many details would need to be considered. When they arrived at the stables, Rupert was waiting for her.
“We are ready for your final approval, my lady,” he said, with a bow.
Cordelia looked at Rhys, reluctant to leave him after what had happened between them.
“Go. I will wait you at the bottom of the stairs to escort you into the ball,” he said, with an understanding smile.
Chapter 39
The rest of the day floated by like a dream. Cordelia had a difficult time concentrating on the details of the ball. The courtyard was beautiful, magical, and reflected everything she was feeling in her heart today. The white flower garlands were the perfect final touch to the enchanted space. The scent of roses from dozens of bouquets hung in the air. Cordelia could not wait to see the courtyard after dark, when the thousands of overhead candles were lit. If the room did not inspire romance, she did not know what would.
After a trip to the kitchen to be sure all was prepared for the impending crowd, she finally arrived at her room. Tilly had retrieved her dress from Rodrigo. Displayed on a form in her dressing area, her gown seemed to stand on its own. It was another masterpiece. The midnight blue, strapless, corseted bodice had beads in a damask pattern around the top and bottom edges. The skirt had satin panels that were slit to mid-thigh where pleats of matching chiffon were inside, that beautifully flared the bottom of the gown. Each of the pleats had glass beads that catch the light as she moved. The chiffon would glimmer as she walked, and billow when she danced. Tears came to her eyes. She had never seen anything like it before. How had her life gone from a nightmare with the Earl to this fairytale?
“Oh, my lady! You are finally here!” Tilly exclaimed, as she came in from the antechamber carrying a wooden box. It was wrapped in a white ribbon that had a card tucked underneath. “I am so glad you are here. I have been charged with this box since it arrived. I gave my word that I would not let it out of my sight until I personally handed it to you. It is quite heavy.” She handed the box over. “It is exquisite is it not?”
“Yes,” she said, and put it on her vanity. “Who delivered it?”
“Someone named Turner. He’s a valet, I think. He was more concerned about the safety of the box than he was about answering my questions, I tell you what! I had to give him my word of honor more than once. I am dying to know what is inside.” Tilly stated, with excitement.
Cordelia’s curiosity was killing her too. She undid the ribbon and set the note aside. Tilly gasped as she lifted the lid. Inside, incased in black velvet, was the most incredible sapphire and silver pearl choker, and two matching pearl necklaces. It was like nothing she’d seen before. The center sapphire was as at least twenty carats that was surrounded by diamonds. The choker had three strands of silver pearls that clasped at the back of the neck. One of the matching necklaces was a longer length than the other, long enough fall over her breasts. Each strand was weighted with a large tear drop sapphire, also surrounded by diamonds, which matched the large stone in the choker. The set must have cost a small fortune.
“They look like jewels fit for a queen, my lady!” Tilly exclaimed, as they were both stared at it stunned.
Cordelia was speechless. She had never thought much about jewelry, but even if she had, she could have never have imagined anything like this!
“Who sent it to you, my lady?” Tilly asked, with reverence.
Cordelia’s hands shook as she reached for the card. They had to be from Rhys. But when? How? Did he know she was going to accept his proposal?
Because you are mine, and I am yours, now, and forever more.
Rhys
Cordelia’s heart pinched. She could not fathom how he had done it. The closest jeweler that would carry this quality was in London.
“They are from Lord Roth.”
“Oh my! They are perfect for your dress, my lady.” Tilly clutched her hands to her chest. “And I know just how to do your hair to show them off. Oh! I cannot wait to see you with them on! Did you see your dress? How did he know the piece would match your dress so perfectly? I am going to make you the most beautiful lady attending tonight. He will be so proud. I will order you a bath and…”
Cordelia blocked out Tilly’s chatter as she ran her fingers across the bold letters written on the parchment. Everything about Rhys was strong, confident and masculine, including his script. He could have any woman he wanted, and he had picked her. Cordelia felt a pang of emotion about what this gift meant. He loved her. She was sure of it. Someday he would say the words, but, until then, he was showing her in every other possible way. Any insecurities she had about marrying him disappeared. Suddenly, she could not wait to see him.
The two hours it took to get ready felt like two days. When she was finally slipping on her elbow length gloves, Rodrigo walked in without knocking.
“I’m here, I’m here, lovey. I’m so sorry I am late. So many coifs to fix and gowns to adjust. Oh my!” He stopped short as Tilly removed the necklace from the box and draped it around Cordelia’s neck. “Besides being gorgeous, the man has impeccable taste.”
“It was you who told him the color of my gown, wasn’t it?”
“Of course, it was me! Who else would know?” he said, in a huff. “And the grumpy jeweler he brought in from London took up a whole corner of my room as he made the changes Roth wanted. But now that I see the finished piece, I say it was worth it! Good lord!” He lifted the sapphire that hung the lowest. “I could not have designed the piece better myself,” he said, in awe.
“When did he have a jeweler brought in from London?”
“Yesterday. The man arrived during dinner and worked all night to finish. He bought earrings for Lady Esme too, but they are nothing like this. I am beyond jealous,” he railed. “Plus, your hair is perfect. Was this you?” he asked Tilly, who nodded proudly. “I have taught you well. If you are done with Tilly, can I borrow her? I am dreadfully behind tonight and the other ladies are starting to panic. I could use another set of hands. At this rate, I will not make it to the ball myself!”
“Of course! Tilly?”
“I would be honored.” She did one last fluff of Cordelia’s skirt then followed Rodrigo and his team from the room.
“People, it is time to divide and conquer. Tilly, you take Lady…” Cordelia heard Rodrigo barking orders as they marched down the hall. She was so rattled that she had forgotten to thank him for her dress. There would be time later, she supposed.
After one last look in the mirror, she hurried down the hall to the stairs. She stopped at the top, searching for Rhys below. The foyer and hallways were full of guests. The footmen were scrambling to take their wraps and guide them to the courtyard. It was a much larger crush than last year. Making it impossible to focus on all the faces in the crowd as it ebbed and flowed through the small space.
Suddenly, hands wrapped around her waist and she was pulled behind the panel that led to the servant’s hallway. She was pushed in a dark corner and lips covered hers before she could cry out. Rhys. She sighed, wrapped her arms around his neck, and kissed him back.
“I had to have a moment alone before we went down into the crowd. I felt like a lecher peeking through the door waiting for you,” he whispered.
“A very generous lecher, my lord.” She could feel him smiling as he rubbed his lips against hers and spoke.
“Mmmm, you like my gift, I gather.” he whispered, as he traveled to her ear.
“Of course, but it is not necessary, mmm…” His hot breath was wreaking havoc on her ear, making it hard to speak. “I do not expect such things…ahh…,” she moaned, as he sucked on her ear lobe.