The Christmas Countess

by Adrienne Basso

  “We are to be married,” she smiled, trying to encourage him. She really did want another kiss. Another bone-melting, blood-boiling kiss, that curled her toes and left her entire body warm and tingling. “Are the rules not more lenient for engaged couples?”

  His expression softened and a shiver rose beneath her skin. He truly was a most extraordinary man. “The rules might be a bit more relaxed, but we will not be truly joined together as man and wife until our vows are exchanged. Even if it kills me.”

  “Then perhaps a Christmas wedding would be a better idea?”

  He laughed and she joined him. “Even I know two days is not enough time to organize a wedding,” he said.

  “January, then. Early January.”

  “It takes three weeks for the banns to be read.”

  “Not if you have a special license.” She lifted her brow saucily and he groaned.

  “Charlotte, your family will be shocked at the insistence for such haste.”

  “I don‘t care.” Charlotte wrapped her arms around his neck. “We want a small, intimate ceremony, so it should not be too difficult to arrange.”

  “What about your wedding gown?”

  “How long can it take to have one silly gown made? Gracious, I shall get married in my best night rail if necessary.”

  She saw his throat move visibly as he swallowed hard. “Lord save us all, the sight of that will have me ravishing you on the altar.”

  She giggled. How amazing that he would find her so appealing, that his control was so close to the edge when he thought of her? Of course, that was very much how she felt when looking at him.

  “I‘m certain an appropriate gown can be made in time,” she decided. “As for the rest, my wedding clothes can be made after we are married.”

  “Better still, I will take you to Paris and have an entire wardrobe done for you. I believe I shall enjoy dressing you in the very latest colors and fashions.”

  The notion totally charmed her. “I‘ve never been to Paris.”

  “Neither have I. ‘Tis something we shall explore and experience together.”

  The prospect was equal parts invigorating and intimidating. She had never traveled beyond the boundaries of the family‘s various estates and now she was casually talking of an extended trip to France. Her world was about to change, expand. Was she ready to face this new challenge?

  “I will also have to return to America sometime within the next few years to settle some of my business affairs,” he said. “‘Tis a much farther journey. Will you mind?”

  “Not if I can accompany you,” she answered truthfully.

  “I would not dream of leaving you behind.”

  It was precisely what she needed to hear. Slowly she raised her head. He stared at her, his brown eyes glittering with emotion. Before he could utter another word, she leaned forward and kissed him, taking his mouth with a bold determination that surprised her. Daniel stiffened for an instant, then groaned and tugged her tighter inside his arms.

  Charlotte sighed with delight, darting her tongue forward to circle around his, pouring all the love of her heart into the moment. Though Daniel had insisted there was danger in too many passionate kisses, she did not worry. She knew she could depend on him, could trust him to do what was right to keep her safe.

  “Sweetheart.” He broke away to whisper in her ear. “Oh, Charlotte, my love. We are going to be very, very happy.”

  Chapter 17

  Cameron leaned back in his chair, knit his brow and studied the man who sat across from him with a calculating eye. He had been uncertain what to expect when this private meeting was requested, yet even the earl‘s fertile imagination had not anticipated the outcome.

  For the second time in less than a month, Daniel Tremaine had succeeded in shocking him. Utterly. Cameron was still struggling to digest the man‘s latest pronouncement. Tremaine had just asked for permission to marry Charlotte.

  Well, not precisely asked. More like informed the earl that he was going to marry his sister. By special license. In a few weeks‘ time. His mother would most likely have heart palpitations when she heard of this nearly scandalous plan.

  Though the dowager countess had warned him of her suspicions of a growing affection between the two, Cameron had given the idea little credit, for he had not observed any indication of an affection between the pair. Apparently he had been wrong. Or not?

  “Tell me, why would you wish to marry Charlotte?”

  Tremaine looked at him as if he were a simpleton. “Is it not obvious?”

  “Frankly, no.”

  “I could sit here for an hour and still not enumerate all of Lady Charlotte‘s finer qualities.” Tremaine‘s face was solemn, sincere. “Quite simply, she‘s an extraordinary woman. I am deeply honored that she has looked so favorably upon my proposal.”

  Cameron drummed his fingertips on the edge of his desk. They were seated in his private study, but even the serene, familiar wood-paneled walls and the book-lined shelves could not help contain the earl‘s suspicious mood.

  “I don‘t know what you might have heard, or what Charlotte herself might have told you, but her finances are in my control,” Cameron said. “I can, and will, withhold her dowry portion and any subsequent allowance bequeath to her by my father if I do not approve of her choice for a husband. ‘Tis my right and my duty.”

  Tremaine did not look the least upset by that lofty proclamation. In fact, he seemed tremendously relieved. “Keep your money. Every bloody cent of it. My life will be far better without it. I want only Charlotte, not her dowry or her allowance or her aristocratic, society connections.”

  “Not her damn family, either, Tremaine?”

  “I never said—”

  “You didn‘t have to say it. I can read your sentiments quite clearly.”

  “I love her. And I will have her.” Tremaine made an explosive sound deep in his throat, but kept his seat and the majority of his temper. “It would be easier on Charlotte if she had her family‘s blessing for the marriage and for that reason I have come to you today. Be assured, I shall always do everything within my power to shield her from hurt, to see to her comforts, to bring her happiness.

  “I had hoped you would be more receptive to my offer, but was prepared for your objections. Please be advised they will not alter my plans one iota. I will marry Charlotte.”

  Cameron narrowed his brow and stared into Tremaine‘s earnest face, his serious eyes and pushed a bit further.

  “Is there a particular reason you are setting the wedding date so quickly?”

  Tremaine flushed, his eyes widening. “You insult your sister with such a base question.”

  “I will not be the only one to ask it,” Cameron replied. “There will be talk.”

  “The petty rambling of a few society gossips do not concern me or Charlotte.”

  “They should.”

  “I disagree.”

  They exchanged glowers.

  Cameron blinked first. Damn. Tremaine was obviously braced for all-out warfare. He was so certain, so determined to make this marriage happen, so convinced he would overcome any obstacles fate placed in his path.

  Cameron understood. Love could do that to a man. He contemplated Tremaine for a long moment, then rose from his desk. Walking to the sideboard, he lifted the cut-glass decanter filled with brandy and poured two glasses with a generous portion of the rich amber liquid.

  He returned and handed one to Tremaine. “To Charlotte,” he toasted.

  “Charlotte.” Tremaine tossed back the drink in two long swallows. “My future wife.”

  This time Cameron did not blink. “We shall formally announce your engagement at dinner this evening.”

  “Splendid.” Tremaine placed his empty glass on the edge of the desk. He looked as startled as Cameron felt. “I will tell Charlotte at once.”

  The other man turned to leave, but the earl stopped him. “Just one more thing.” Cameron extended his hand across the wide expanse of
the massive oak desk. After a moment‘s hesitation, Tremaine grasped it firmly. “Welcome to the family,” the earl said with a smile.

  ———

  At dinner that night Cameron announced his sister‘s engagement. Rebecca, having been told the news earlier by Daniel, joined in with the rest of the guests in wishing the couple great happiness.

  After a good many hugs of congratulations and a few tears of joy, shed by the dowager countess and Lady Marion, Rebecca found herself standing with the earl. She could not tell from his stern countenance if he were truly pleased about the marriage, though he had made a pretty speech when announcing the news.

  “I am happy for both of them,” Rebecca said sincerely. “Though I am a bit sorry for you.”

  “Why? Your brother seems very devoted to Charlotte. Are you concerned about their future?”

  “Not in the least.” She halted at the entrance to the drawing room. “I‘m afraid your holiday surprise is quite overshadowed by this news. I fear no one will make a great fuss over your Christmas tree.”

  They turned together and observed the rest of the guests. Rebecca could immediately see her prediction had been correct. Much of the greenery gathered the previous week had been hung during the day. Boughs of holly and evergreen draped the mirrors and pictures, swags of garland were entwined in the chandelier, a kissing ball was suspended from a high wall sconce and numerous sprigs of mistletoe were hung over the doorways and archways.

  The room looked spectacular and smelled even better, the faint whiff of pine permeating the air, the bright sparkle of red and gold satin ribbons glimmering in the candlelight.

  The Christmas tree was set in one corner of the room, perched on a table as the earl had instructed. It received a curious glance from Lord Bailey and a raised eyebrow from Lady Marion. Beyond that, it was ignored.

  The earl frowned. “I believe everyone‘s opinion will change once they see the tree fully decorated and lit with candles.”

  “Hmm, be sure to keep a bucket of water close at hand in case there are any mishaps. Burning draperies have a most noxious odor.”

  His expression changed, becoming amused. “You do have a special talent for putting a damper on my fun, Rebecca.”

  “‘Tis a gift,” she said in a teasing manner.

  Some raucous laughter and a smattering of applause drew their attention. Rebecca glanced over and saw that Daniel and Charlotte had discovered the kissing ball. With some pointed encouragement from the dowager countess and one far from subtle hint from Lady Marion, the newly engaged couple were sharing a kiss beneath it.

  They made it seem so simple. A confused sensation of melancholy settled in Rebecca‘s chest. She gazed up at Cameron. His eyelids were half-lowered, his expression almost challenging. He did not have to speak what was on his mind, for she had a very strong suspicion it was the same thought as her own.

  They too could be engaged and sharing a kiss in public. Rebecca‘s shoulders tightened. She still had difficulty believing that such an attractive, compelling man had offered her marriage. She had been stunned, flattered and then thoroughly confused by the offer and her reaction to it.

  Staying with Cameron could set to rights so many wrongs in her life. It could give her what she craved most in the world, a home of her own, a family, a chance to be a mother to Lily. Yet the reality of it all was far from being so simple. ‘Twas an understatement indeed to classify their relationship as complicated.

  It seemed wiser, more prudent to try to separate all her emotions and view this with calm, rational logic. But it was an illogical circumstance.

  ‘Twas nearly impossible to imagine herself as Cameron‘s wife, trying to fill Christina‘s shoes. In many ways that seemed a proposition doomed to failure, for he had loved his wife with a passion Rebecca understood, even admired.

  Still, each time Rebecca considered his proposal, a whisper of hope drifted through the anxious chaos in her mind. Initially she had thought the biggest inducement to saying yes was having the opportunity to stay with Lily, but she also admitted having Cameron as the man in her life was a tempting thought.

  Given their past, was it realistic to have an expectation of success for such a union? Or could she be content with far less in her life? Could he? Was it an impossibility to hope for more than a respectful companionship, a shared goal of properly raising their children, a pleasant, easygoing friendship?

  The thoughts and emotions swirled in her head and her heart and Rebecca finally concluded the certainty of one thing. If she was seriously going to consider marrying him, she needed to believe there was a real chance they could live happily ever after.

  A game of charades was organized. Needing an escape from her troubled thoughts, Rebecca joined in the fun, though her mind was not entirely on the game and she played poorly. The earl contented himself with cards and kept away from her. Rebecca told herself that was best.

  As soon as she could, Rebecca retired. As she left the drawing room, she unintentionally caught Cameron‘s eye. There was a strange, almost vulnerable expression hidden in the depths of his gaze. It remained for only a moment, but it pulled at her heart.

  With her usual skill and cheery attitude, her maid helped her prepare for bed. Rebecca fully expected to lay awake for hours, but surprisingly exhaustion soon claimed her and she fell into a deep, dreamless sleep.

  ———

  Startled, Rebecca sat up in bed. Her neck prickled with awareness and her eyes searched the darkness for something that seemed out of place. She knew it was beyond midnight, yet dawn must be far away, for a quick glance at her window confirmed that there was no light in the sky.

  “‘Tis me,” a husky male voice informed her.

  Cameron? Rebecca shook her head, thinking she must be dreaming. Suddenly, there was movement near the armoire and the shadowy figure stepped from the darkness and drew closer to the bed.

  “It really is you?” she whispered. “I thought I was dreaming.”

  He lit a candle. The flickering light illuminated his handsome features. “I‘m flattered to be considered a dream. Deep down I feared you would think me a nightmare.”

  She blushed, lowering her chin and averting her eyes. “No, never.”

  He seemed tense, but his tone was calm, level. “Does this complicate things? My being here?”

  Rebecca bit her lip. “Probably.”

  “Should I leave?”

  “No! Please, do not go.” Rebecca felt the warmth in her cheeks. She had not meant to sound so desperate, so needy.

  She lifted her chin. His vivid gaze locked with hers. He looks as confused as I feel. That revelation eased her nerves. She smiled shyly.

  “You look very beautiful sitting there all alone in your large bed,” he said hoarsely.

  Her pulse quickened. He looked equally beautiful. He must have gone to his chamber first and changed, for he was wearing a dark blue silk robe with wide satin lapels. She suspected he wore nothing beneath it. A heavy sensation tightened in her chest.

  “Will you join me in my very large bed?” she asked.

  He closed his eyes. “I shouldn‘t.”

  “I know. Will you join me anyway?”

  He was silent, his eyes now open, alert and flickering over her. He moved closer. The top of his robe parted slightly. She caught a glimpse of his powerful, broad chest and the dusting of hair that covered it. The sight gave her a delicious, shivery chill.

  Rebecca shifted herself on the bed, moving from beneath the covers to sit on the edge. He joined her. She could feel the heat from his solid body radiate toward hers. She had never been so aware of his power and strength.

  They sat together for several long moments. Then he lifted his hand and slipped it under the thick cascade of her unbound hair, cradling the back of her head with his palm. She waited, the sound of her breathing filling the air.

  He bent his head, kissed her temple, trailed his lips down the side of her face to the rapidly beating pulse of her throat. “I‘ve thou
ght of little else all day.”

  “What is happening between us?” she asked in a trembling whisper.

  “I cannot define it,” he answered, pulling back. “I only know it feels incredible. Irresistible.”

  His eyes kindled with affection. Cameron leaned forward and pressed his lips against hers.

  It was magic.

  Rebecca‘s response was honest, giving. Cameron deepened the kiss, lured by her sensual response, captivated by the whimpering, yearning sound she made as she opened her lips to him. It was a kiss that stunned the senses, that had the power to numb the mind.

  She linked her arms around his neck. There was only a single layer of silky fabric covering her body. It took extreme discipline for him not to rip the flimsy garment from her, not to push her back on the bed and feast on the delectable flesh beneath.

  It was not just the sexual desire that brought him here tonight. It was not even his selfish need to kiss her, to touch her, to join with her. It was the closeness, the comfort, the affection they gave so openly to each other when in bed that he craved most of all.

  There was a contentment and a peace in possessing Rebecca that Cameron never expected to find. Until she came into his life, he had not realized how badly he needed to battle the loneliness that had filled his days for so many years. A loneliness Rebecca suffered from as acutely as he.

  “I adore kissing you,” he confessed when their lips had finally separated. Breathing hard, Cameron rested his forehead against hers.

  She took his hand. “When I am with you, I feel the excitement of the moment, but there is more. I dare to think of possibilities. But then reality intrudes and I am not sure of anything.”

  “I suffer a similar fate. Is this wrong? Are we merely using each other to forget the pain of our pasts, to ease the loneliness of our future?” he asked.

  “I wish I knew.” She looked away, wrapping her arms around his waist. “However, I do fear we are being rash.”

  “Yes.”

  “Have we so little willpower, my lord?”

  “Apparently.”

  She laughed, as he had hoped. Curving an arm around her body, he pulled her close, kissing the sensitive skin on her nape. He could feel the rapid beating of her pulse beneath the tender flesh. Her scent was sweet and intoxicating and uniquely her own.