by Unknown
“Well,” Alice said as they continued to walk along the path. “My father was a captain for a shipping company for many years. My mother is a wonderfully sweet and gentle soul. It’s just the three of us and we lived comfortably in a nice sized home. That was until my father broke his leg one day while abroad his ship.”
“Both the break and the healing process were very painful for him and he became a bit out of sorts. He couldn’t return to work and soon times got lean and we had to downsize to a smaller cottage. This is why they sent me to come stay with Aunt Millie for the season. It is their hope that I will land a nice young man with a secure future. They just want a better life for me. Oh, but listen to me, just going on and on. How bored you must be,” she said.
“I could never be bored with you,” Gage said as he assured her with one of his charming smiles. “I’m truly sorry about your father’s accident and everything that transpired because of it.”
They turned as the small path moved left and they found themselves in another section of the garden, a more secluded area. They came upon a bench and decided to sit for a bit before they kept going.
Alice sat down first and arranged her dress so that it was spread out next to her instead of bunched up underneath her. Gage politely waited for her to get settled and then he sat next to her, purposely sitting just a bit too close to her. Once again, he couldn’t help himself.
Alice sat quietly and gazed at the beautiful scene in front of her but Gage couldn’t take his eyes off of the heavenly creature sitting next to him. Her pale blond hair and blue eyes were captivating enough but it was her wit and charm that held him rapt.
“So tell me,Mr. Albright”
“Please, just Gage will do,” he stopped her.
“Alright then, Gage,” she said, liking the sound of his name on her lips. “I’ve shared my story, would you care to even things out a bit and tell me about your family?”
Gage sighed. “My mum actually passed away not too long ago and my father wasn’t really a part of my life,” he said somberly.
Alice felt horrible for him. She couldn’t imagine losing one of her parents. “I’m so sorry, Gage,” she said as touched his shoulder, comfortingly.
Gage liked the feel of her hand on him but he knew that he couldn’t dwell on that. “It’s alright, my mother was one of the best parents a child could ask for. We used to have so much fun, just the two of us. One day, we spent an entire afternoon at the park and just watched as the world went by. We would come up with these incredible, fantastically absurd stories about what they were on their way to do. It was lovely.”
Before Alice could comment on his father, he got up and offered his hand. “Shall we continue on?” he asked.
“Yes, I think we should,” she agreed as she put her hand into his. He released it once they were standing and they continued to walk down the path.
It was easy to get caught up in her charm, and Gage was enjoying it, but the mention of his father has upset him. Thinking about his father put a damper on his mood and the remainder of the walk was a quiet one.
“I’m sorry I put a damper on your stroll today, it was not my intention,” Gage apologized when they reached the house.
“Not to worry, it was lovely.”
“I do hope that we may again walk another time?”
“Quite certainly,” Alice answered.
Gage brought her hand up and lightly kissed her knuckles. “Good day, Miss.”
Chapter Six
Continuing his pursuit of his father, Gage had paid one of his father’s servants to find out his schedule for the day. After learning that he would be going to Hyde Park today, Gage had decided to go for a ride dragging Dermont along with him.
Dermont was unaware of who Jason St. Vincent really was and Gage hoped to keep it that way for a bit. Gage knew that if he explained everything to Dermont then the questions would be never ending. His best mate was under the assumption that Gage had wanted to come to see a girl he had met the other night at the ball.
Just thinking that made Gage’s mind wander to Alice and their walk yesterday. Scenes flashed before his eyes her eyes closed as she smelled a flower, her little half smile, them sitting next to another on the bench, her hand on his shoulder, him kissing her hand when he left.
Alice was a beautiful distraction and almost made him forget his plans for his father… Almost. But just as fast as he would forget, it would come rushing back with such force and remind him that she was also attached to the man that had ruined his mother’s life.
And wasn’t that the problem. The one girl that Gage actually wanted to spend time with wanted another. But he couldn’t blame her. As far as husband hunting went, James St. Vincent was a prime catch. She wouldn’t want for anything, just like her parents had hoped.
Gage felt a burn in his chest at the thought of Alice marrying his father. Dispelling the notion, he turned his attention back to his friend.
“I hate to say it mate, but you look damn good out of black today,” Dermont said cheerily.
Gage stopped and stared at his friend. Dermont wasn’t flamboyant but he was constantly concerned about clothing and the latest fashions. Needless to say, he was always commenting on Gage’s wardrobe choices.
Shaking his head in mirth, Gage kept going. “I’m delighted that you approve.”
The two continued to chat as their horses walked side by side, leisurely strolling. Gage was waiting for a sign of St. Vincent.
He was about ready to give up on his mission when a carriage with a familiar crest came into view. Gage’s heart picked up and he readied himself as the carriage moved closer.
It was still a shock to Gage to know that he had a real father. For so long he had hated this unknown man and now he had a face in which to focus his hatred. But Gage hadn’t counted on the onslaught of emotions that he felt every time he came close to St. Vincent. Yes, hate was at the forefront, but there was a bit of admiration there too. Gage cleared his throat trying to dampen the unwanted feelings for the man.
“Say, isn’t that the gel you danced with the other night?” Dermont asked, bringing Gage’s attention back to the encroaching carriage.
Gage had been so distracted by his father that he hadn’t yet noticed the second occupant riding with him. But it only took one look to confirm Dermont’s question. Gage would know that blonde hair anywhere and he was only slightly surprised to see her with him.
“Quite right you are,” he answered.
“Sorry ‘bout that mate,” Dermont shrugged.
“Don’t be too quick to count me out,” Gage countered.
“Oh, this is going to be good,” Dermont laughed. “Wait, here they come.”
Gage and Dermont stopped where they were while the carriage slowly rolled by. St. Vincent raised his hat in acknowledgment and Alice simply had a look of shock on her face before she quickly schooled her lovely features.
“I was wrong before,” Dermont said after the carriage had passed. “This isn’t just going to be good. This is going to be so bloody amazing. I mean, did you see her reaction to you?” he laughed. “Perfection!” he said as they started to ride away.
“Do you feel better?” Gage crassly questioned.
“Almost there,” Dermont continued to laugh.
Gage couldn’t help himself, he laughed too.
Alice carefully collected herself before she turned her attention back to St. Vincent. She hadn’t been expecting Albright to be here and it had momentarily caught her unaware.
St. Vincent had invited her to go for a ride in Hyde Park and she had quickly agreed. Who wouldn’t though?
Alice had dressed in a light green dress, with pink and white flowers decorating the hem line. Her long hair was still visible underneath the beautiful ivory lace bonnet she was wearing. And her slippers matched the dress perfectly.
St. Vincent had commented on her beauty when he’d arrived. Lifting her hand and placing a chaste kiss on her knuckles. That was the fir
st time she had compared him to Albright, because Albright’s same kiss had sent goose bumps up her arms, where as St. Vincent’s hadn’t.
But that didn’t mean that St. Vincent didn’t have anything going for him, because he did. He was wealthy, titled, handsome for his age, and he had impeccable manners, all of which were exceptional qualities for a potential husband.
St. Vincent waved and said hello to a few people as they continued their ride and Alice simply smiled, not knowing who each person was. She had a feeling that this outing was more for his purpose than hers.
They had actually stopped to talk to an older couple who were impeccably dressed. And it wasn’t until she heard them mention a house party that she really started to pay attention to what was being said.
“We would love for you to be there St. Vincent,” the older woman said. “I’ll send you an invite this afternoon. And please bring this lovely young women with you,” she said as she winked at Alice.
And that was how Alice found herself packing for a week long house party.
Chapter Seven
Alice looked out the carriage window as their destination came into view. They first crossed a small bridge over a creek and it was then that they could see the property. The lawns were immaculate and Alice couldn’t wait to visit their garden and smell the lovely flowers. There was even a shrub that had been manicured to look like a lion.
“Oh would you take a look at that, Alice,” Aunt Millie said as she pointed at the lion.
Alice let out a small laugh, “That is indeed impressive.”
The older couple that Alice and St. Vincent had spoken to in Hyde Park had turned out to be the Earl and Countess of Bradbury. Their home was a beautifully constructed two-story house that took Alice’s breath away when she first saw it.
The carriage came to a stop and the doorman opened the door to help them out. Aunt Millie went first and for the first time in her life, Alice felt like the poor relation. She had never seen such a wonderful looking house up close and it made her question what St. Vincent’s home looked like. There was no doubt that it was just as grand as this one.
A maid came to take their luggage and led them through the enormous house. Each room seemed to be grander that the previous and it all left Alice a bit speechless. They finally came to a stop in front of a suite door and the maid opened the door, waiting for the women to enter.
“This will be your room, Miss,” she said to Alice.
But Alice was confused at the opulent room she was standing in. “Surely there has been some sort of confusion.”
The maid shook her head, “No, Miss. This is the room of the Earl of Devonshire’s standing. You are his guest are you not?” she asked.
“Yes, but” she tried.
“Then it’s settled,” the maid said. She turned her attention to Aunt Millie. “If you will follow me, my Lady, I can show you to your room as well.” And with that she started to leave.
Aunt Millie gave Alice a comforting smile and wink before she left the room, leaving Alice alone.
Alice looked at the room that was to be hers for this week and she let out a deep sigh. The room was decorated in ivory and gold everywhere you looked. From the damask wall coverings to the elegant looking furniture, everything seemed to reek of opulence.
But the bed is what really took Alice’s breath away. It was a huge four poster bed, with a full canopy and heavily detailed curtains to shut out the light. The bedding was soft to the touch and Alice couldn’t wait to slip between the sheets.
There was a knock on her door and Alice moved to answer it.
“Good afternoon, Miss Rutledge,” the Earl of Devonshire greeted. “I just wanted to make sure that you were settling in alright?”
Alice nodded her head. “Why, yes everything is absolutely splendid. The room is far more than I could ever hope for,” she jested.
“Ah, but it’s what you deserve, my dear,” St. Vincent said giving her a warm smile.
Alice’s blushed at his words. “Will you be joining the festivities?” she asked.
“Of course. I must admit, I’m a bit of a sucker for group activities, brings out my competitive side.”
“Something to look forward to then,” Alice said sweetly.
St. Vincent kissed her hand and left but not before telling her that if she needed anything he was only a ring away. And Alice was once again left alone in the beautiful room.
Deciding that a short nap would be a wise decision, she laid down on the bed, over the covers, and willed herself to go to sleep. But when she closed her eyes she saw green ones staring back at her.
For the past week Gage had watched Alice and his father laugh together, play croquette together, stroll together and dine together. They were always in public and adequately chaperoned but somehow they made it seem more private than it was. It was no secret that Alice was looking for a potential husband, but observing the pair together left a bitter taste in his mouth.
Finding any alone time with Alice was almost impossible, but there were a few moments throughout the week where their eyes had locked or their hands had grazed the other in passing. Each touch felt like a spark was igniting a need inside of him that couldn’t be put out.
Dinner had ended and Gage found himself with the rest of the men, drinking scotch and smoking cigars. He had seen an open seat next to St. Vincent and before he could think too much about it, he was sitting in the empty chair. A servant brought him a drink and cut the end off of a cigar before handing it to Gage to light.
Gage had never been a big smoker, but tonight it appealed to him. The two sat there in silence for a moment before St. Vincent broke the ice.
“Have you been enjoying yourself?” his father asked.
Gage nodded, “As good as can be expected. Watching everyone making complete idiots out of themselves is quite entertaining.”
“Everyone you say?”
“Fine, almost everyone, present company excluded,” Gage amended.
“That’s better. How come I haven’t seen you partake in said activities?”
“Not my style,” Gage answered truthfully. “Cards and billiards are more suited for me.”
“A gambler then?”
“Not necessarily. Only when the moment is right. What about yourself?”
“When the mood arises. I’ve found much more pleasurable ways to spend my time,” St. Vincent said with a smirk.
Gage finished his drink and signaled for another. His father’s comment had hit a little too close to home. He continued to converse with St. Vincent, hoping that he would find something of interest but three hours later, the only thing he had been able to achieve was getting completely tossed.
Gage and St. Vincent had said their goodbyes, but not before his father had issued him an invitation to a dinner party he was having the following weekend.
Gage was having trouble finding the way back to his room. He didn’t think that he’d drank that much but it seemed apparent now. He turned a corner hoping it was the correct direction and it was then that he saw her.
Alice was a ways in front of him, walking with her Aunt Millie. He quietly followed behind them, making sure to stay far enough back to remain unseen.
Gage was mesmerized by the gentle sway of Alice’s hips as she walked and the way her soft voice echoed along the corridor. It was like she was a siren, beckoning him to impending death. In Gage’s current state he would have gladly done anything she could have asked of him.
Alice and her Aunt disappeared around a corner and Gage quickened his step, not daring lose sight of them. There was a plan forming in his mind and he was just drunk enough to pull it off.
Chapter Eight
Alice awoke when there was a dip in the bed next to her. She didn’t bother asking who it was because the smell of sandalwood gave him away.
“You shouldn’t be here,” she said softly as she sat up.
“I know,” he said as he let his green eyes roam the features of her face. “T
ell me to go,” he urged as he moved his face in closer.
He was mere inches from her now. Gage placed his palm on the side of her face and slowly ran his thumb over her soft lips. He let his fingers trail down her neck and then brought them back to her chin.
“Tell me that you want me to leave,” he said as he lifted her face up so that they were eye to eye.
Alice’s heartbeat was thundering in her chest. All of her senses were on fire right now. From Gage’s silky touch, to the deep rumble of his voice or the hint of scotch on his breath, everything was working and even though she knew that she should tell him to leave, she couldn’t.
Alice leaned in and brought Gage’s lips to hers. It started off slow, but gained speed as Gage deepened their kiss. Alice was lost to him and she wanted more. Gage licked the seam of her lips and she parted them, allowing his tongue entry. He gently thrust his tongue into her mouth, encouraging her tongue to dance with his.
Gage used his free hand to pull her closer, eliminating any space that might be between them. He ran his hand back and forth on her back, moving lower and lower with each move, never interrupting their kiss.
In a moment of boldness, Alice brought her hands up and parted his coat. Gage helped her by removing it completely. His hands went back to roaming her while she pulled his shirt far enough up so that she could place her hands on his bare flesh.
Alice loved how strong he felt under her hands. Her fingers moved over his chest, then slowly down lower to his stomach.
Gage interrupted her when he pulled her mouth back to his for a heart stopping kiss. His lips singed her skin and Alice’s body was on fire. There was a delicious feeling growing in her stomach and Alice wanted to bask in the wonderful feeling.
Gage ran one of his hands down her side then back up, rubbing the side of her bosom. Without breaking their kiss, he moved his hand so that he was cupping one of her breasts. His thumb gently ghosted over her nipple and Alice let out an excited moan in anticipation.