by Tamara Gill
Either way, the atmosphere here at Dunsleigh was what he wanted for his home. There was a feeling of happiness, of security and love that wrapped about you the moment you stepped in the door and it was one thing he wished for above all else, and he’d stop at nothing until his own life and that of his daughter’s was as peaceful and secure.
“I haven’t seen you much since you took up the viscountcy. I hope, other than these few monetary teething problems, all is going well?” the duke asked, filling in the silence as they continued down the hall.
“Very well, thank you.” Callum pushed away the thoughts on how he’d treated others since coming into the title. For another to show interest and wish him well as the new Viscount Arndel made guilt prick his soul with its pointy little dagger. Yet, he’d had little choice, he reminded himself. If anyone should feel guilt about his current occupation as a thief, it was his deceased cousin and the moneylender who had no scruples when it came to those he clawed into debt. Callum had been innocent of any crime, until his daughter had been threatened. But soon, very soon, he would put this despicable lifestyle behind him and start afresh.
The staircase loomed to the side of him and movement at the top halted his steps. Callum looked up as a vision of beauty personified glided down the stairs. The blood in his veins pounded fast and fluid at seeing Lady Alice again.
Gaping at her, he snapped his mouth shut and wiped his sweaty hands against his pants. Of course, he’d seen beautiful women before, had married one, but the duke’s sister, with her golden locks that would make the sun weep with jealousy, and her clear, intelligent eyes, had him thinking all sorts of things that he’d promised himself he wouldn’t think again. Not after their interlude when he’d stolen from her, and had wanted so much more than family heirlooms.
“Good afternoon, Lord Arndel, are you joining us for luncheon?”
Callum swallowed at the sound of Alice’s sweet, welcoming voice that could also be defiant and hard when required. He pulled at his cravat, too tight about his neck. She came to stand beside her brother and took His Grace’s arm, looking up at him expectantly.
Callum cleared his throat. “Yes, my lady. Your brother was good enough to invite me.” One delicate eyebrow rose and he had the oddest feeling that she was aware her presence made him awkward. Little did she know it wasn’t awkwardness that he endured, but desire, a need that was as strong and undeniable as air.
“Wonderful.”
She pulled her brother forward and past him and the scent of jasmine teased his senses. He took a deep breath, not entirely for fortitude, and followed them into the dining room, the whole time trying not to take in her delectable swaying hips.
After today he could declare himself totally insane, for there was something wrong with his mind. Lady Alice was not, nor ever would be, for him. She was cultured, accepted within Society, whereas he was looked on as something the family had dragged up to keep the estate within their reach. She was rich. He was poor, and no matter how much her dowry could save his financial ass, he refused to marry Alice under such circumstances. The only course left for him to save the estate and care for his daughter, who needed him more than anyone, was to sell the unentailed land and finish off the tasks that the moneylender had blackmailed him into doing. There was no time for courting pretty ladies, not when he struggled daily to keep his tenants housed and fed.
“Lord Arndel, how lovely to have you here.” The duchess welcomed him, gesturing to a chair across the table from her. Her eyes were a deep blue and sparkled with warmth, reminding him yet again of Lady Alice and where she received her inherent beauty.
“How are you settling in at Kester House?” the duchess asked, placing a napkin on her lap and motioning for the servants to begin serving.
Callum followed suit and took a sip of water. “Very well, Your Grace. I’m happy to be part of the community of Ashford. This area of Surrey has many beauties.” His eyes met Lady Alice’s and he quickly turned his attention back to the duchess, but not before catching the grin that lifted Alice’s very kissable lips.
He shook the thought away that her kisses would be lovely. If only to allow him to forget his worries.
The duchess nodded, thanking a footman as he poured her wine. “I’ve loved Surrey from the moment I was brought here all those years ago when I first met the Duke and Duchess of Penworth. The rolling hills and hedge groves, beautiful estates, and welcoming people make this one of the finest and friendliest counties I know. Although,” she said, distaste clouding her eyes, “I’ll be glad when the Surrey Bandit is caught and tried for his crimes.”
Callum choked and coughed, placing down his water before he spilled it over the tablecloth. A glass of wine was placed before him. “I agree,” he said, gaining his equanimity. “This fiend is troublesome, to be sure.” He kept his head down, hoping no one noticed his fumble at the mention of the highwayman.
The delicious scent of chicken soup wafted up to him as a bowl was set down. His mouth watered at the thought of a good meal. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d eaten anything that wasn’t served cold or days old. Of course, as lord of the house, he only thought it right that he would miss out on the best meals, and leave them for his daughter and staff to partake in. But very soon that was set to change, and he looked forward to that day with vigor.
Looking down at the three different spoons he had to choose from, actually managing to eat this soup was another thing altogether. His survey across the tabletop slid to Alice and he watched to see which piece of cutlery she used.
Her hand went to the one at the top of her bowl, her hand halted on the spoon and she didn’t pick it up. He frowned, looking up to see her watching him. Heat stole up his neck that she’d caught him and understood the reason for his staring. But instead of the censure he expected at not being well versed in dining etiquette, she smiled, understanding dawning in her eyes before she looked back at her meal and started to eat.
They ate in silence for some time, before Callum cleared his throat, hoping what he had to say was looked upon favorably by the ladies present. “I understand my cousin each year held a ball for the local gentry and working families of the area. Unfortunately, I must be the bearer of bad news and will not be able to hold it this year.” Three pair of female eyes bore down on him. Callum chose to ignore their surprise and merely continued to chew his chicken, hoping against hope they wouldn’t ask why he wouldn’t hold the event.
“But it’s tradition in the area, my lord. The late lordship always hosted the pre-season party. As much as we were disappointed last year that you did not hold one, we thought due to you only being new to the title that we should not impose on you too soon. But surely, this being your second year as Lord Arndel a ball cannot be too much trouble?”
“Well, as to that,” he started, struggling to find the words without coming outright and saying he was near penniless.
“Before you give Arndel any censure over not holding the ball, it was in fact what we were discussing before luncheon. I’ve decided that we shall host the ball this year instead of his lordship. We haven’t held one for the local gentry since father’s death, and I think it’s time we did.”
Callum nodded to the duke in silent thanks before taking a sip of wine. Even with the sale of the land now secure, he couldn’t spare any funds for a ball. It would be still too much for his coffers to stand, even if it weren’t extravagant.
“That sounds like a wonderful idea, Josh.” Lady Victoria, seated two seats up from him, beamed at her brother. “I do prefer not having to leave Dunsleigh, outings can be so wearing. Not to mention always having to travel to London can be such a bore. But a ball at home is just the thing.”
“You don’t like Town?” he asked, having not thought a young lady would dislike the atmosphere and parties that the bustling city offered. The theaters, gardens, and not to mention, the gentlemen.
Victoria shook her head. “Not at all. I prefer the country. I have my horses and my dogs
here. There is not any other place on earth that I enjoy more.”
Callum studied Victoria and wondered if she were older or younger than Alice. They were similar in looks, to be sure, both had golden locks, but where Alice had lighter shades running throughout, Victoria had a reddish kiss to her hair. She smiled at him when noting his attention, and he quickly turned back to his meal, hating that Victoria’s eyes were as green as the emerald brooch he’d stolen. Perhaps staying for lunch had not been such a good idea.
The placing down of a crystal glass harder than was necessary had him looking across the table. Lady Alice watched him with an intensity that had him shifting in his seat. She plopped a grape between her lips and his mouth dried.
Had she recognized him of a sudden? Would she declare him the thief who had stolen from the family and have him shot by the duke before he could hightail it out of the house? Time ticked by and such a declaration never came. She continued to eat grapes more erotically than he’d ever seen before, while taking in his every move.
What had come over her?
“Do not worry, Lord Arndel, for we shall throw a ball that is as sought after as your late cousin’s was. We shall not disappoint, I promise you.” Victoria paused. “In fact, if you wish it, you could help organize it. There are many things that I’m sure your staff has noted down that is required for us to replicate your cousin’s event. Maybe we could even hold the ball in your honor. Celebrate the title going into such capable hands.” Victoria looked at the duchess. “Mama, what do you say? Do you think my plan is suitable?”
Callum swallowed and tried to mask his fear over such a thing. Not that he minded the duke hosting an event, instead of him, but never would he wish to have so many eyes on him. Many of them he’d stolen from. Awkward didn’t begin to stress how such an honor would make him feel.
“I don’t see the problem, my dear, and Alice may also assist you. Of course, this is only if Lord Arndel wishes to be guest of honor.” The duchess took a sip of her wine, her eyes twinkling with pleasure.
Callum nodded, smiling to tamper down the conundrum that was coursing through him. What do I do? “I would welcome any ball that the Duke of Penworth holds, but it isn’t necessary for me to be so singled out with such an honor. I inherited a title, I didn’t solve world poverty.” He took a sip of wine, needing the fortitude.
Alice turned to her mother. “When should we hold the ball, Mama?”
“Whenever you wish, my dear. Although I do believe before the Season commences would be best; otherwise, most people will be away in Town. If that suits Lord Arndel, of course.”
He nodded, wishing he’d not stayed for lunch after all. “I will not be attending Town this Season, so whenever you hold the ball will be agreeable to me.” He met Alice’s eyes and cursed that he reveled in the disappointment he possibly read in her sapphire gaze. With his dubious actions over the last year, he was certainly not husband material for a duke’s daughter. He shouldn’t like the fact that she might pine for his attendance in Town.
“Oh no, we shall miss you in London this year, my lord. Will we ever have the pleasure of your company outside of Surrey?” Alice asked, sitting back as the main meal of roast beef was placed before them.
“In time, I’m sure I’ll attend the Season, but I have other things that occupy my time at present.”
“Like what?” she asked, her question bringing him up short.
“Alice,” the duchess said, “don’t be impertinent.”
Alice studied him a moment before turning back to her meal.
“Before the Season will certainly work better for those attending,” Victoria stated matter-of-factly.
Alice threw him a determined smile, one he recognized from when he’d had her hard up against the carriage and at his mercy. The memory of her supple and soft curves made him shift in his seat. “That gives us three weeks to organize. Plenty enough time, since those being invited are local to the county, and I’m sure very eager to know our new viscount better. Don’t you agree, Victoria?”
Victoria nodded. “I do agree with this plan. We’ll have to have the invitations out before this week’s end.”
Both sisters’ eyes were alight with excitement, whereas Callum couldn’t think of anything worse than being the center of attention. Oh for crying aloud, why did I ever mention the damn ball to them? He tried to calculate a way to not attend and came up blank. At this point in his life, the ability to pay for a new suit was a stretch and one he could ill afford. But how to tell them that when their ducal allowance was much more forgiving than his own? He could not, without looking more desperate than he already was.
“With the Season so close, I don’t believe a ball is really necessary. Do you not agree, Your Grace?” Callum asked, hoping the duke would back him on his statement.
Alice ignored his words. “We shall make your honorary ball the grandest night you’ve ever seen. We’ll invite all our acquaintances and friends and you will get to know who your neighbors are, as you should, now that you’re the new viscount. You, Lord Callum, will be propelled into the Society in which you were born and with our brother’s backing, we may manage to have you married, before the Season has even begun.”
Callum choked and coughed, taking a sip of wine. “Forgive me for my lapse of manners. The drink went down wrong,” he gasped out, punching the middle of his chest.
“Are you well, my lord?” Again, Alice watched him. She was forthright, so bold and confident as she looked at him. He was sure he’d never met anyone like her. From what he remembered of the limited events he’d attended last year, Lady Alice Worthingham was a much sought-after young lady, but with a will that would take someone extraordinary to endure for more than an evening out.
“Very well, thank you,” he said, diving back into his meal, his need to finish what was on his plate overwhelming the determination to leave. “In regards to the ball—”
“We could have ice sculptures and foreign foods cooked up, the likes of which Ashford has never seen before.”
This was beyond bearable. Stuffing the last of the beef into his mouth, he chewed quickly, wanting to go. Now. He checked the time and tried to think up a reason why he had to depart before luncheon had even ended.
“May we call on you in a day or so to speak to your cook about what was always served by the late viscount? I believe she always made the most delicious dry cake, and we’d so love for her to replicate that for the ball here,” Victoria said.
Callum washed down his meal with the last of his wine, wishing it was something much stronger. “No need for that. I can send my cook over to Dunsleigh to attend you.”
Alice chuckled, a knowing smile on her lips and his heart thumped to a stop. “We love a little jaunt every now and then. We shall visit you, Lord Arndel. It has been two years since we’ve visited Kester House. We would enjoy seeing any improvements you have completed since you inherited the estate, my lord.”
The phrase my lord was uttered unlike anything he’d ever heard before. It was full of sensual implication and sweat broke out on his top lip. All thoughts of money and his lack thereof vanished with the saying of the two words. Before the threat from the moneylender against his daughter’s life reminded him he needed to keep his head and not lose it to a pretty face. Or the sensual mouth that had been haunting his dreams and woken him restless and unfulfilled.
Realization struck like a hammer that he wanted her. Not at a ball surrounded by other guests, or here among her family. But alone. Just the two of them, if only to see if the attraction he had for the chit was wholly one side only.
His attention, without heed of who was about them, moved to the creamy, perfect flesh that graced her neck and below. The blue gown hugging the bountiful attributes that Lady Alice would one day share with her husband made his hands clench, and something comparable to jealousy shot through him at the thought of someone else laying claim to her body.
The duke cleared his throat and Callum prayed he’d not se
en his blatant study of his sister. The duke wiped his mouth, seating himself back in his chair, seemingly pleased with his meal and having no inkling that his sister was being ogled by the worst gentleman guest they’d ever had.
“Shall we finish our discussion in the library, Lord Arndel?” The duke stood. “I’ll see you at dinner, Mama.”
“You will not be long will you, Brother? We have a meeting in Ashford. You have not forgot, I hope.”
Callum pushed back his chair and a sharp piercing sound rendered the room into silence. “Apologies, ladies,” he said, gritting his teeth at his ability to always draw inappropriate attention to himself.
“Is that today?” the duke asked, running his hand through his hair.
Callum frowned, wondering what the meeting was about. Whatever it was, the fierce determination on Alice’s face looked like it was important to her.
“Yes, you said you would look over the buildings with me and ensure the quote from the carpenters isn’t excessive. You know how important those cottages are to me. You had better say you will come.”
The duke sighed. “Lord Arndel, I did promise and so I can only spare an hour or so before familial duty must take precedence.”
“I understand, of course. And an hour will be most adequate.” Callum faced Her Grace. “Thank you for having me to lunch. Good afternoon to you all.” He bowed and left the dining room, welcoming the hallway’s solitude and cool air on this warm afternoon.
The duke joined him and they headed back to the library.
The meeting went well, and today forward his life would settle for the better. As soon as he returned to Kester House he would send for his lawyer and have him draw up the appropriate papers to sell the land. Then he would organize a date for when he’d travel to the capital and be rid of the last jewel he’d ever steal for the moneylender.