“Do you need some assistance, my dear?” Killian asked in a low moderate tone. Though he pretended he wasn’t overly concerned at finding his wife struggling in another man’s arm, he was in fact in a murderous rage. Instead of tearing the cad apart, which he was so very tempted to do, he didn’t want to make a scene that would embarrass her.
Confused over the duke’s reaction, Wingate scowled. “Glad to see that you’re taking this so well, your Grace. I’m sure you can understand that I found your wife’s invitation to seduce me — irresistible. What man could deny himself such a tempting offer?”
With a screech of outrage, Modesty lifted her leg and rammed her knee between the fiend’s thighs. It was with great satisfaction when he bellowed, let her go and fell to his knees clutching his groin. “That will teach you to attack me and lie you insane, depraved jackanapes.” Turning her back on him, she marched over to her husband tilted her head back and poked him hard several times in the chest. “You were some help. Why in the blazes didn’t you beat the deranged idiot instead of just standing there smirking like a complete oaf. Now I insist we go home.”
“I could see you had everything under control, sweetheart. If you insist I’ll gladly give him the beating he deserves.” When his wife stamped her foot, he wrapped an arm around her
waist and leaned down and gave her a brief kiss. “We’ll leave in a moment.” With a curt nod, Killian turned with deadly intent glittering in his eyes, he glared at the man withering in pain. “My wife just saved your miserable life. Touch her again and you won’t be so lucky next time.” Seething in impotent rage he led her from the room and a few feet away from the door he stopped and stared down at her with concern. “Are you all right? He didn’t hurt you in any way, did he?”
“No, I’m fine. The despicable cit Stokes put him up to it.” Modesty wasn’t about to admit to her husband that she had actually been frightened. Even now she was still shaken from the attack. They collected aunty from the parlor and explained briefly that they were leaving.
Without another word said between them, they left the house and entered the coach. When it started moving Killian sat down beside her and lifted her up on his lap, she clung to him. Burying her face against the side of his neck, she started to tremble.
“It’s all right, love. You’re safe now.” He whispered as he ran a hand over her back trying to soothe her. He turned his head when aunt Lucy asked a question.
“Has something happened? Modesty seems upset about something.” Aunt Lucy wrung her hands in concern.
“There was an incident, but nothing serious. She’ll be fine in a little while.” He explained.
Relieved when Killian held back the truth, Modesty was grateful that he was giving her time to recover. Though nothing terrible had happened and it was foolish to behave like a terrified wimp, it was reasonable under the circumstances. No female liked being attacked by a complete stranger, it was just lucky she kept her wits about her.
Now she was thinking clearly and no longer trembling, she raised her head and smiled at her aunt. “I’m fine now Auntie. There was just a little misunderstanding, but it was cleared up quickly.
A smile lifted the corners of her mouth when her husband grunted in disagreement, she turned and saw his eyes blazing with fury. Without thought, she lifted her hand and cupped his jaw. Leaning closer, she whispered in his ear. “We will discuss this matter later. I don’t want to cause auntie any unnecessary worry.”
“Oh, we will be definitely talking about it and it was no little misunderstanding.” He answered in a low voice, letting her know that matter was far from over.
Huffing out a breath, she slid her hand away from his face and rested her cheek against his chest. It seemed that the low-life rat wasn’t going to give up even though she was already married. What did he hope to gain by destroying her marriage was beyond her? Even if he succeeded, she would never have anything to do with him.
There had to be a way to end this madness before someone was hurt. The idea of talking some sense into her father came and went swiftly. It would be pointless to appeal to his honor knowing he had very little, well none at all actually.
After what had happened tonight the contemptible cit was beyond rational thinking. She shuddered wondering what other horrendous acts he would come up with. They had to find some way to stop this madness before someone was hurt. By Killian’s threat to her attacker, she knew he had hid it well, but underneath all that calm, he had been in a murderous rage. Though it had frightened her, it also thrilled her that he would fight to protect her.
When the coach slowed, she raised her head and when it stopped, Killian lifted her off his lap and placed her on the seat beside him. Watching him step down onto the pavement and help auntie out, then he reached for her hand, she gave it to him without hesitation. Leaving the vehicle, they went into the house together. “Have a good sleep, Auntie and I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Same to you dear and you to Killian.” Lucy smiled and went up the staircase.
“Shall we go up to bed?” She asked her husband.
“Yes. Lock up please, Turner.” With a hand on the small of his wife’s back they took the stairs and entered their bedchamber. Killian had hoped by the time they’d arrived home, he’d have the black rage consuming him under control, but he’d been wrong. He had never been so close to beating a man to death than he was tonight. Finding his wife struggling in another man’s arms took nearly everything inside him to keep control of himself and his common sense. Not that he had found her guilty of anything, he’d known the moment he witnessed what was going on that she was innocent and that the whole scene had been set up. He closed the door behind them and placed his hands lightly on her shoulders. “Would you like me to ring for your maid?”
“No, that’s if you don’t mind helping me out of my gown.” Modesty stood with her back to him and missed seeing the wicked grin on his face.
“It will be my pleasure. While I’m busy with all these buttons, hooks and tapes you can explain why you went to the library alone.” His fingers went to work.
“I was waiting for you to return when a servant arrived with a note. It was signed K so I presumed it was from you asking me to meet you in the library.” She twisted her head and saw he was busy at his task.
Killian slipped the sleeves of her gown down her arms and watched it pool around her feet before he started on the laces of her corset, “I also received a note from you asking me to meet you there. I knew something underhanded was planned and I found it unbelievable that you would make such a request.”
When her corset fell away, she drew in a deep breath and spun around to face him irritated that he thought it was so preposterous that she could behave a little naughty. “I wouldn’t be so sure of that. I can be as wicked as the next person if I want to. Besides, I thought the note had come from you.”
Her exasperation amused him, but he smothered his smile. “You’re many things sweetheart, but naughtily wicked you are not. You would never request a secret assignation even with your own husband. Let alone with a complete stranger.” Raising his hand, he gently caught her chin between his fingers. “What happened tonight I have no doubt is just the beginning. From now on you have to be more careful, trust no one and take no more risks. Don’t believe anymore notes or someone telling you to meet me somewhere.”
Nodding her head in agreement, she sighed. “I think we should hire someone to investigate him. A man like Stokes doesn’t rise so fast or become so rich without some dirt clinging to him and I know the perfect man to do the job.”
“Oh, you do, do you. Why doesn’t that surprise me? And yes, I agree. I was planning on doing it myself but was distracted by other more pleasurable things. We’ll discuss it in the morning. It’s late and time for bed.” Letting go of her chin, he started to loosen his cravat.
“I’ll go change into my nightgown and be back. Killian can you just hold me tonight and not do anything else?” Hanging her head, she
was too shy to look him in the eyes.
At her request, he stared at her bowed head and something strange moved in his chest when he saw her meekness. “I’d be honored to cradle you protectively in my arms.” He scowled when she scurried from the room. Never could he ever remember seeing her so docile.
The attack tonight frightened her more than he could have imagined and he was feeling immensely guilty for not realizing it. He was now more hell bent on destroying the cit than he was before. Though his wife was a hellion from hell and caused mayhem, she didn’t mean to be hurtful or cruel. In her misguided way she was only trying to right the wrongs of the world.
To be physically attacked must have truly terrified her and as her husband, it was his duty not only to protect her, but keep her safe. There would be no seduction tonight, she needed him in a way no other woman had ever wanted him. She desired comfort and by God, that’s what he would give her
Quickly stripping off the rest of his clothing, he slid beneath the cover, stacked his hands behind his head and waited for her to return. When the adjoining door opened and she stepped hesitantly into the chamber, he raised his arms. When she practically flew across the floor and into his embrace, he captured her tightly against his chest. “I promise I’ll keep you safe.” Kissing the top of her head, he helped her settle beneath the blankets and held her close.
“I know. It’s not your fault and I’m being foolish for behaving like a silly, frightened ninny.” She whispered.
Stroking a hand up and down her back, he smiled. “You have a right to want comfort after being attacked. I’m positive you’ll rally shortly. One thing I admire about you, sweetheart is that you’re no weakling or faint-hearted. Hell, you’re a daredevil and take unnecessary risk even I wouldn’t attempt. Though most of them are insane, you’re brave and daring. I don’t know if many men would have the gumption or the nerve to do half the things you do.”
“You make me sound like a madcap and a walking hazard.” She didn’t know whether to be insulted or praised, but when he laughed and kissed the top of her head, she smiled.
Deciding that the subject was treading on dangerous grounds, he didn’t bother to reply, but changed the subject. “Are you looking forward to retiring to the country?” I know I am. Lately I have been growing bored.”
“Yes. The season in London is growing more mundane every year.” Yawning, she snuggled against her husband’s warm, bare chest feeling contented and safe.
The sound of her sleepy voice, he was relieved that he had managed to comfort her and the fear had left her. He didn’t have the same luxury though, he was still frustratingly furious over how easily his wife had been duped. He had obviously underestimated his enemy; the man was undoubtedly unhinged and desperate.
For some unknown reason the cits unstable obsession with Modesty was becoming perilous and that made the man dangerous. What he needed to do as his wife suggested was to have the rat investigated, dig up dirt before something even worse happened. She could be truly hurt next time and he might not be around to protect her.
Perhaps it might be wise to leave London earlier than planned. In the morning he would put the idea to her and hope she would agree. In the meantime, he would hire someone to investigate the cit.
Chapter Twelve
Across the crowded ballroom, Ronald Stokes smirked, he wasn’t surprised when the woman read the note and left. It wouldn’t be long now that the duke would find his wife in another man’s arms. His only regret was that he couldn’t witness the scene, but it was far too risky. No, he had to let this play out and be there to pick up the pieces when it was over. Impatiently he waited and kept his eyes glued on the door.
If this plan didn’t succeed he would have to try even more drastic measures. Already he had a woman waiting to strike if it was necessary and if that failed as well, then things would turn deadly. No matter what he had to do, lady Modesty would be his.
When neither the duke nor his wife re-appeared, he meandered his way through the crowd and with eager footsteps hurried down the passage. Reaching the library, he shoved the partially open door wider and stepped inside. He cursed bitterly when he found the fool kneeling on the floor squirming in pain. “You blithering weakling. How could you fail such a simple task?”
Wingate gritted his teeth and slowly, unsteadily rose to his feet, his hand still clutching his painful groin. “She’s a she-devil. The witch tried to unman me and the blasted duke didn’t seem at all concerned at finding his wife in another man’s embrace. In fact, other than threaten me, he seemed quite bored with the whole ordeal.”
“Get out of my sight you pathetic creature.” Ronald sneered his contempt. He’d been a fool to think that this drunken idiot would succeed.
“My debt. I did what you asked. You promised it would be cleared and I’d owe you nothing.” Gingerly Wingate took a step forward and winced when pain lanced through him.
Impotent rage throbbed in every inch of his body; Ronald looked down his long nose in contempt. “You failed. Now leave, I’ll let you know what I decide.” Watching the sniveling wretch scurry from the room, his mouth twisted in a sneer. It seemed he would have need of his second plan after all and perhaps he would have more success this time.
It was doubtful lady Modesty would forgive or accept that her husband had impregnated another woman. If this latest plan failed as well, the duke was going to have a deadly accident. He had enough unscrupulous thugs in his pocket to see that the deed was done if his latest scheme didn’t succeed.
Since it was nearing the end of the season and everyone would be flocking to their country estates in a matter of days it was more imperative that this problem had to be taken care of before then. With her father’s backing, he would swoop in wed the chit before her husband was even buried.
Then he would whisk her out of the city and consummate their marriage. It all had to be done swiftly before anyone could interfere. By the time the season started again, only then would everyone know that they were married. Doors that had been closed to him before would be thrown open and he would gain even more powerful people under his control. He would be a force to be reckoned with and untouchable.
First, though he had to rid the woman of her husband, it was time to set plan B into motion. Tomorrow the duke and his wife would have an unexpected visitor. Before he returned home, he had to search out the chit and inform her to do his bidding. He would also drop by his office and go through the list of unscrupulous reprobates who wouldn’t turn squeamish about murdering someone. A powerful someone.
Blast Anderson, how could the man have no control of a slip of a girl? The fool should never have let her escape and run to her betrothed. If he didn’t desire her so badly, he would find a more willing, manageable chit. One who’s family were in dire need of money,
the trouble was he didn’t want anyone else but her. From the first moment he’d seen her, he’d craved to possess her and by damn he was going to have her.
The only flaw was that he had to act quickly and he didn’t like making fast decisions, long ago he realized acting in haste something always went wrong. Yet time was running out and even now, the blasted duke could be onto him. It wouldn’t take long for the man to work things out and when he did, Ronald knew there would be trouble.
***
Recovered from her ordeal, midmorning Modesty sat in the parlor with her aunt sipping tea. A whimsical smile tipped her lips. When they returned home last evening Killian and been nothing but solicitous, he had actually cherished her. Just thinking about it made her heart flutter but knowing how dangerous it was to start having deep feelings for him, she quickly crushed the emotions stirring inside her. She didn’t want to start caring for him because she was afraid that if she did, there would only be heartache waiting for her in the end. With a sad shake of her head, she placed the cup and saucer back on the tray just as the butler entered the room.
“Your Grace there’s a Lady Hollensbrook asking to see you or his lordship.”
Turner informed her.
“Oh, I don’t believe I know her. I wonder what she wants. Please send her in, Turner. His grace is with his accountant so there’s no need to bother him.” When the butler left, Modesty turned to her aunt. “I wonder who she is, Auntie. I’ve never heard of her before.” Before her aunt could answer a very pregnant, very beautiful woman came shyly into the room. Rising to her feet apprehension churning in her stomach, she gave a weak smile. “You wish to see me or my husband. I’m afraid he’s unavailable at the moment. Please be seated and explain the reason for your call.” Once the stranger sat down, she returned to her own chair.
“Thank you for seeing me since we have never met, your Grace. I was hoping that I would speak to the duke as this is a rather delicate and urgent matter that concerns him, but seeing that he’s busy I’m forced to discuss it with you. Oh, this is terribly humiliating. I shouldn’t have stayed away so long, but I was heartbroken.” Jane Hollensbrook reached into her reticule and pulled out a handkerchief, she dabbed at her eyes before she continued to explain. “When I told Killian, I was having his baby he didn’t believe me and refused to see me again.” Once more she dabbed at her eyes and made her lips tremble. “My friend wrote and told me that he’d married. I couldn’t believe it. I was crushed and devastated by the news. I can’t believe he had suddenly stopped loving me. What am I going to do? How will I support myself and our child?” She started to cry in earnest and buried her face in her hands.
As she was forced to listen, Modesty scowled. When the woman finished, she looked at her aunt who was trying not to laugh and forced herself not to smile back. The lady was a consummate actress, but she didn’t believe the story for one second. In fact, even all those rumors she’d heard about him she was suspecting they were all lies.
Cupid's Arrow Book Two Capturing The Duke Page 11