“I cannot imagine that.” He grinned. “Actually, I cannot imagine your father allowing you to have such boisterous activities.”
“I spent most of my adolescence with him angry at me.”
“So, did you solve any mysteries?”
“Oh, yes.” She laughed.
Forgetting his manners, he leaned forward with his elbows on the table. “Do tell.”
“I discovered who had been taking my fancy slippers.”
He arched an eyebrow. “The kitchen maid, perhaps?”
She shook her head.
“The butler?”
Her laughter grew. “Wrong again.”
“Then who?”
“My puppy.”
He tilted his head back and roared with laughter. When he looked back in her big amber eyes, they glittered like stars. So lovely. So desirable, he wanted to take her in his arms and shower her with affection.
“Those vexing animals always get in some kind of trouble,” he replied.
He kept the conversation flowing, and when he finished, he realized that they were not arguing. In fact, it was nice to talk with her. Almost too nice. He paid for their meal and left with her on his arm. A surge of pride burst in his chest to be escorting the most beautiful woman in Bath. He took her down the streets and enjoyed her delightful sense of humor. As long as they stayed on neutral subjects, she didn’t argue or bring up the past.
Regretfully, it was time to walk her back to her hotel. He stopped at the door to her room and stared into her fascinating amber eyes. She didn’t look away, but the color in her cheeks darkened beneath his close scrutiny.
“Would you like to come in for a drink?” she asked.
If he agreed, they’d be alone together. A new energy sparked within his body. He really wanted to, but knew if he stayed any longer, he’d try to ignite the heated passion they shared last night. He certainly couldn’t do that now that he knew her true identity. Yet, he couldn’t deny the ember of excitement at that prospect.
“No, Charlotte. I really need to leave. I have spent too long with you as it is. I still have a lot to do before finishing the case I’m working on.”
“Then I should let you go.” She turned and opened her door, but didn’t walk inside.
He looked past her and scanned the empty room. “When is George expected back?”
“I’m not certain. He didn’t give me a time. I’m not his mother, you know.” Her voice turned bitter.
Silently, he cursed. It was really none of his business, but he had to know how she and George spent their time together. “Charlotte, if you and George aren’t doing anything this evening for dinner, you’re both welcome to come to my townhouse and dine with me.”
“Thank you, but if you remember, my friend, Allison, is staying with me as well.”
Her mesmerizing eyes kept him spellbound, and he held tightly to his control to keep from falling under her magical charm. “Bring her along. I’d like to meet the friend who made your father so upset.”
The corner of her lips twitched into a grin. “I’ll ask George when he returns.”
“If you decide to come, George knows where I live. Dinner is at eight.”
As he stood in the doorway, he tried to think of something that would keep him with her a little longer, keep him staring into her eyes, but he couldn’t think of a single thing. “Well...”
She sighed heavily. “Yes, well...”
He moved next to her and ran his fingers across her cheek. An invisible pull tugged him toward her and all he wanted to do was take her in his arms and smother her with his kisses. He breathed deeply, trying to fight the sensations the best he could. “Thank you for sharing the afternoon with me. I had an enjoyable time.”
“As did I,” she answered softly. “Surprisingly enough, we didn’t argue much.”
“Indeed, it was quite astonishing. Most of the afternoon I could see the beautiful She-Devil I met last night, instead of the woman I thought I’d married.”
She laughed lightly. “Do you know I had the same thoughts? The man you portrayed this afternoon was the mysterious man at the masquerade instead of the horrible creature I’d married.” The tone of her voice lowered when she mentioned the night before.
Automatically, his gaze moved to her mouth; the same pair of lips he’d enjoyed devouring less than twenty-four hours ago. Those lips that had moved beneath his in a mixture of heaven and hell when he’d held her so intimately in his arms.
Burning sensations roared through his body, convincing him to act upon his impulses. He stepped back before something happened and he was completely under her control.
Charlotte tugged on her ear as she lowered her eyes. “I’ll let George know of your invitation. If he doesn’t have other plans, I’m confident he’ll accept.”
He took another step back. “I hope to see you tonight.” He bowed slightly. “Until then.”
The urge to take her in his arms consumed his very being, so he turned and hurried down the hallway. Why couldn’t he get over the lustful memories floating through his head? He wanted to feel her touch all over again, and taste her mouth beneath his. He must be addled. What other reason could there be for the inferno burning inside of him?
Chapter Four
Charlotte paced the floor of the hotel room, wringing her hands against her stomach. Why had she acted so love-struck?
She clenched her jaw. Wasn’t it bad enough she’d melted under Ian’s touch last night? But today in broad daylight, she nearly swooned from his nearness. Remembering the misery he’d put her through after he’d left her three years ago was essential. She needed to recall the insecurities she’d had because of his treatment. He’d made her feel as if she wasn’t good—not only for him, but for any man. And what about the humiliation he put her through last night?
She’d be a fool to think he’d transformed into the caring, kind-hearted man she thought she’d fallen in love with. That, too, was part of his disguise. This was the very reason she’d hardened her heart against him. And this was the very reason she could not accept his invitation for dinner tonight. He must have hypnotized her to agree, curse his hide!
The door to her suite opened and in walked George and Allison. Charlotte forced a smile. “How was your outing?”
Allison’s eyes sparkled with life. “Splendid. And how was your afternoon?”
Charlotte rubbed her temples. “Not as exciting as yours, I’m afraid.”
Allison hurried to her side and took her hands. “Did Mr. Fielding come?”
“He happened by during my morning walk.”
Her friend’s eyes widened. “And?”
“And I gave him the annulment papers. He hasn’t signed them. He says he’s going to have his solicitor look them over.”
Allison huffed and folded her arms across her chest. “That man. How I would enjoy strangling him.”
Charlotte chuckled. “Stand in line.”
George handed his hat and over-jacket to the maid. “Charlotte, you do not seem too upset over seeing your husband.” He turned and faced her with a raised eyebrow. “Can I assume the meeting went well?”
Charlotte scowled. “No, you cannot assume anything of the sort. The meeting didn’t go as I had planned. He didn’t sign the papers. In fact, the arrogant man had the audacity to ask us to dine at his townhouse tonight.”
George’s eyes widened. “And what was your answer?”
Charlotte turned toward the window, afraid her heated cheeks would give away what had really transpired between her and Ian. “I didn’t really give him an answer, but said I’d suggest it to you, first.”
George barked with laughter. She swung around in surprise. He walked to her and grasped her hands. “I think we should go. It’ll be most enjoyable.”
She scowled. “Enjoyable for whom? Have you forgotten what he did to me three years ago, not to mention what happened last night? Has it slipped your mind how much he loathes my very presence?”
�
��No, I haven’t forgotten, but I think if we go tonight, we might be able to convince him to sign the papers.”
She narrowed her eyes. “How so?”
His smile stretched. “Because of what you told him about us. If he sees how much we care for each other, I believe he’ll sign.”
Allison laughed as she accepted a glass of brandy from the maid. “My dear George, I beg to differ.”
“And why is that?”
“Because I don’t think I’ll be able to conduct myself in a manner that will help with your plan. You forget, my wonderful man, I’m a very jealous woman.”
He chuckled, sauntered to her, and wrapped her in his arms. “My sweet, Allison, you have no need to doubt where my loyalties lie. My heart is with you, always.”
Allison tilted her head and grinned. “And what if Mr. Fielding doesn’t react the way you hope? What if he abhors the site of his wife being pawed at by his best friend? What will you do then?”
“If I know Ian, he’ll give in and sign the papers because of his arrogance. The matter will be concluded quickly, and we may all return back home where you and I will continue our secret affair.” His brows wagged above twinkling eyes.
Allison grinned. “Why do I not believe you?” Charlotte sank into the nearby sofa, ignoring her friends in their comfortable embrace. Confusion clouded her thoughts and left her feeling torn. She really didn’t want to see Ian again, especially if she had to act as if she were in love with another man. Then again, it might be rather enjoyable to see if she could make him jealous.
Her heart lifted slightly. Ian really didn’t love her; he had just experienced a healthy dose of passion last evening. With this knowledge, there were endless possibilities she could do to disrupt his night.
She straightened on the sofa and grinned. “George? Allison? I’ve decided it will be a brilliant idea to go to Ian’s for dinner tonight.”
George and Allison exchanged smiles. George focused his attention back to Charlotte. “What made you change your mind, my dear?”
She studied her fingernails. “Oh, let’s just say, I’m in the mood for a little revenge.”
Allison laughed. “What, pray, do you mean by that?”
Charlotte lifted her gaze. “I feel like giving my husband a dose of his own medicine. I want to make someone jealous tonight.”
“Just as long as it’s not me,” Allison warned.
Charlotte rose from the sofa and walked to her friend. She took Allison’s hands and squeezed. “I need your help, though. The only way I can make Ian jealous is by using George.”
“You’re right, of course. How else will we be able to get your husband to come up to scratch?”
Charlotte shook her head. “I don’t want him to come up to scratch, just make him see what he’s lost.”
“Splendid idea.” George clapped his hands. “The gown you wear tonight must be very revealing.”
Charlotte glanced at Allison and arched her brows. “Is it all right? Will you allow George to help me?”
Allison nodded. “It’ll be amusing to see your husband squirm. Now, what about that gown?”
The picture of a dress pierced her thoughts; the scandalous frock she’d seen in the shop’s window this afternoon. The same one she thought would be too daring to wear any place. But since they were just going to dine at Ian’s townhouse, she could wear it!
“George, you need to take me shopping.”
His eyes widened. “Right now?”
She clamped her hands tightly to his arm. “Yes, now, because I know the perfect dress. I saw one this afternoon during my walk. It’s extremely daring. The bodice is quite immodest, and the fringe on the sleeves won’t hide my arms at all.”
“It sounds most becoming,” Allison said. “Besides, we’ll just be at Ian’s for dinner, and you won’t have to cause a scene in public. Wear a cape and reveal it at the house.”
“I agree wholeheartedly.” Charlotte grinned.
Hopefully, all would fall into place the way she wanted. She’d show that cad of a husband exactly what he’d missed out on since he left her.
“George, do me a favor, though,” Charlotte added.
“What’s that?”
“Don’t make him too irate.”
George threw back his head and laughed. “If I don’t, Ian will think I’m not sincere. We grew up together, he knows me well. Trust me, what I do tonight will be for his own good.”
Her heart dropped. She didn’t want even think about what George would do tonight.
* * * *
Ian paced the hardwood floor of his bedroom while the valet chased around him, readying him for the evening. Charlotte was coming!
He stopped in front of the full-length mirror as his valet brushed his deep blue waistcoat for the tenth time. Ian adjusted the collar of his white silk shirt and tugged down the midnight blue cravat tightened around his neck.
Jenkins, the valet, stepped back and looked over Ian’s attire, and then nodded. “I think you look especially refined tonight, sir.” Jenkins’ gaze met Ian’s in the mirror. “By chance, are you out to impress a certain lady?”
Ian chuckled. “No, I’m just going to entertain some old friends.”
“Is it certain they’re coming?”
“They have not confirmed my invitation, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t coming. If I know Fauxley, he’ll enjoy catching me off guard.”
Jenkins retrieved the black over-coat and slipped it onto Ian’s arms. “Well, you are going to make an impression tonight whether you desire to or not.”
Ian’s smile stretched, but held back the laugh lodged in his throat. Yes, he did want to impress Charlotte, but for the life of him, he couldn’t figure out why.
The chime from the front door startled him. They were here! But more importantly, she was here. His gaze switched to the bedroom door, his palms moistened with excitement. What was wrong with him? His adolescent years had passed. Why did he act like an over-eager schoolboy now?
He waited until the voices of his guests drifted up the wide staircase and into his room before he left to greet them. Taking a deep breath, he walked down the hallway to the top of the stairs. As he peered down at his guests, his heart filled with pride over his acquired wealth. One large chandelier hung point-center on the ceiling, making everything below sparkle like champagne, especially Charlotte. The light touched her hair and enhanced the shine on her brown tresses.
Ian’s butler, a graying, stooped old man with a cheerful disposition, greeted the guests and took their wraps. When the butler retrieved the last garment, Ian began his descent of the grand staircase.
“Good evening,” he welcomed, causing all eyes to turn his way. “I’m so very delighted that you all could—” When Charlotte turned to face him, her beauty took his breath away. Ian’s train of thought came to a screeching halt and his mind completely stopped working. Nothing else mattered but the very beautiful woman in his hall.
Sweeping his gaze over her gown, he took careful steps toward his wife. When he stood in front of her, he lifted one of her hands covered by an elbow length, silver-blue glove, and brushed a soft kiss across her knuckles. The urge to take her in his arms overwhelmed him. His hands burned to caress the bare skin on her shoulders. He wanted to stroke forth the passion he’d made her feel before.
A presence drew him out of his hypnotic state when George stepped away from the other woman and to Charlotte. George took her hand away and tucked it protectively under his own.
Fauxley cleared his throat. “Fielding, I’m certain Charlotte is grateful for your warm greeting, but she’s with me tonight.”
Ian hardened his jaw, glaring at his so-called friend.
Fauxley lifted his chin in a challenge. “But I don’t believe you have met Charlotte’s charming companion, Mrs. Allison Archibald.” George took her elbow and drew her forward. “Mrs. Archibald, this is Ian Fielding.”
Putting aside his anger, Ian grasped Mrs. Archibald’s outstretched ha
nd. He’d detach his friend’s head later when the two of them were alone.
Ian smiled. “It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”
The woman nodded. “The pleasure is all mine, Mr. Fielding.”
He placed a proper kiss on her knuckles, but wanted it to be Charlotte’s delicate hand instead. The other lady’s beauty didn’t compare to Charlotte’s breathtaking loveliness. As Mrs. Archibald stepped away, he moved his gaze to his wife. Pushing past the angry thoughts aimed toward George, Ian concentrated on Charlotte’s heart-warming smile.
“Your place is very lovely.” Her voice sang like harps from heaven.
“I’m happy you approve.”
He glanced over her attire once more, and his heart beat faster. Her silver-blue dress with the fringed shoulder straps was provocative. She wore no jewelry around her neck, and diamond ear-bobs hung from her finely shaped ears.
No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t stop staring. She was exquisite, and the smallest glance from her torched his blood. And that dress! Stunned, he couldn’t believe she would wear a gown designed to make men stare…and cause duels.
In his mind, he replayed the scene with her this morning in front of the store’s window. Was that the same gown he accused her of using to plan a man’s seduction? Was he going to be that man? His hopes escalated but were quickly dashed. George was the man she intended to entice.
Fauxley cleared his throat again. “So, Fielding? Are you going to offer us a pre-dinner drink like a good host or ogle Charlotte all night?”
Embarrassment washed over Ian, but instead of going with his first instinct to throw his fist into George’s face, he decided to be honest. “Well, considering she’s legally my wife, I think I have the right to admire her beauty.”
A deep blush colored Charlotte’s cheeks, but she remained silent.
“But you are correct, Fauxley,” Ian continued. “I haven’t been a very attentive host. Would you like some sherry?”
“That would be refreshing.” George led Charlotte into the sitting room.
Ian offered Mrs. Archibald his arm and followed behind. With his friend paying such close attention to Charlotte, tonight would be torture, plain and simple!
Belong To Me (book 4) (The Fielding Brothers Saga) Page 5