Ravaging the Duke

  He pulled his trousers and smalls down, revealing only him.

  She smiled as she closed her hand around him, not hiding her pleasure at how hard and how big he was.

  Margaret squeezed, and Alec groaned. Her well controlled duke was coming undone.

  He removed her hand and drew her up off the seat. He moved between her thighs, his tip touching her opening. She ached with need, wanting to have him.

  ***

  All Alec could feel was Margaret, her heat, her scent. Deeper into her. The noises in his throat hoarse, his breath came fast. She was so damn tight. He was sliding into her so deep he never wanted to leave her warmth again. He kissed her face, her throat, feeling her groans against his lips.

  "Maggie."

  He couldn't move inside her as much as he'd like in this position, but their bodies were tight against each other.

  Margaret touched his face. She was looking into his eyes with her beautiful green ones. She was part of him, and he was a part of her.

  He moved inside her, and Margaret gave in to him. She sucked in a breath as he pressed even tighter into her, spreading her wide.

  Alec felt his finish coming, too soon. She was squeezing him hard, sending little pleasures up and down his cock.

  "Alec." It was a whispered groan he almost didn't catch. "I feel so good..." Her words vanished as climax took her, undoing him.

  Alec looked down at her, his eyes taking in everything. He growled and swept a kiss across her lips. Margaret placed her hands against his chest, feeling his heart pounding as quickly as hers. He lifted her off him, pulling himself out. They both groaned. Instead of pushing back inside her, he held her close, the two entwined face to face.

  Margaret kissed him. He kissed her back, the two of them tasting, nipping, licking, exploring. She kissed his cheek and nibbled her way down his throat. Alec groaned in pleasure and did it all to her.

  "Come, we need to get some rest. We will have plenty of time for this over the coming days." He paused to kiss her.

  "Will we be stopping along the way?"

  "Of course. We'll change horses and eat come morning. I want us to put some distance between your cousin and us."

  "Very well. That does sound like the logical thing to do."

  He passed her a handkerchief so she might clean herself up. "I hope you have more. I have a feeling we're going to be quite busy." She grinned.

  "I promise we'll stop for the night once we get further down the road. Then you can bathe or anything else your heart desires," he replied.

  "I'll be fine, Alec. Really. I look at this as the first of many great adventures we'll have."

  He nodded. "I hadn't anticipated we'd be marrying in secret before sneaking off in the dark of night."

  "It couldn't be helped. Jacob's motives are unknown apart from wanting the jewels. Hopefully, he'll hear the news and start off for Gretna Green."

  "He'll do something, that we know. Evermont and Norwood will see to getting our mothers to Paris. The three of them will soon forget all this."

  "I certainly hope so. In any case, we can do something once all this settles."

  Alec took the cloth from her and tucked it in his pocket. "We will. A wedding trip would be nice. We'll see how it goes. It may have to wait, depending on your cousin."

  "I'm looking forward to seeing more of your country. How long has it been since you've been to your home in Scotland?"

  "Since I was a boy. The journey is long, so my parents didn't make the journey too many times. At least not with us children."

  He didn't hear a reply. Looking over at his bride, Alec noticed she'd fallen asleep. He grabbed the blanket from off the floor of the coach and pulled it over both of them. Margaret never moved.

  Chapter Ten

  Not long after daylight, the coach pulled into an inn to change out the team. Alec wanted to put more space between them and Kent. The weather seemed to be cooperating, and he wanted to make use of that.

  As the coach came to a halt, Margaret began to stir. She slept deeply after their romantic interlude.

  "Are we going to eat here or not?" she asked as she put her hand out for Alec to help her down.

  He shook his head. "No, we need to keep going. There is a basket in the coach. The innkeeper has a room available for you to take care of your needs."

  "Very well. I won't be long."

  He led her to the inn's front door. He hoped she wouldn't regret their decision by not having a proper wedding. Margaret didn't seem like the sort of woman who much cared about things like that. She was sensible and knew what was at stake if they'd waited around for their scheduled wedding. Her cousin Jacob could have nabbed her and returned her to America. Something Alec wasn't willing to chance.

  "Take whatever time you need." He smiled, and they followed the innkeeper's wife up the stairs to the room. He followed her in and looked around.

  "Thank you."

  He kissed her lightly on the lips, then turned and left her.

  Downstairs, he saw that his team was changed out. They would ride all day today, knowing they needed to take advantage of the good weather. Knowing how Margaret loved to ride, he would make sure the two extra horses were ready. It would be a good alternative to sitting inside a carriage all day.

  Alec had written out a missive to the housekeeper and butler kept on staff letting them know to expect them. It was in haste, and the housekeeper, Mrs. McIntyre, would probably have a few choice words with him for not giving her more advanced notice when they arrived.

  This was one estate his father had paid little attention to because of its remote location. From what Alec understood, there was the usual farming on the estate. It had been self-supporting for years. There was a small distillery on the grounds that provided a source of income as well. That was well and good, but what shape the castle was actually in was unknown to Alec.

  He stood by the carriage, satisfied with the team as he waited on his bride to rejoin him. He was anxious to get started. A thousand things went through his head while he waited. There was so much that needed his attention once they returned. It wasn't however as though he couldn't make sure his affairs were sorted out while they were in Scotland. This was an adventure. He was sure he and Margaret would begin planning their dreams for the future. One that would be far better than what his father had left him.

  Margaret appeared at the door, and Alec flew across the yard toward her. She looked beautiful in spite of their long night. "Are you ready?"

  "Yes, let's get on our way. I'm quite hungry, you know."

  He smiled as he offered her his arm. "As am I."

  He stood behind her as he handed her up into the coach. The idea of being in such close quarters with her made him hard. He climbed in behind her, and a few moments later, the coach jerked as it began to move.

  As the coach got underway, Alec pulled out a basket from under the seat before them and set it before his bride. "Here we go."

  Margaret eyed the contents of the basket. There was a roasted chicken, along with smoked meats, cheese, and crusty bread. "I don't think we'll starve," she announced as she began to uncover the food.

  Soon they were enjoying a hearty meal. Alec had found wine had been included, which was a welcome sight. They ate in comfortable silence. Margaret peered out the windows of the coach as it hurried through the countryside. They were further north as the landscape was changing.

  "I thought you might like to ride later, once it is warmer."

  "I would love that. Are we going to stop this evening or keep going?"

  "We'll see what the weather does. If it remains nice like this, we may keep going."

  She frowned.

  "We'll stop for the night if rain begins. If not, we'll keep going. I want to put as much distance between us and Jacob as possible. If he finds out where we're headed, he's likely to come on horseback."

  Margaret nodded. "I doubt he'll find out where we headed any time soon. We did it in such secrecy. You are right on
one thing. He'd come on horseback, which would mean he could travel a lot quicker than we can."

  She offered a piece of cheese from her plate. He took it from her small, slender hands. She gave him a little smile, her eyes half closed. Alec knew there was no woman more beautiful than Margaret. She belonged to him. Now. Forever. He stared down at her a moment. Then he cupped her head in his hand and kissed her. The kiss held passion, hunger and need.

  "Keep that up husband, and you'll be lowering the shades."

  "There is plenty of time for that, minx."

  She picked up a piece of bread, breaking off a smaller piece. "I wonder what our mothers are saying."

  "I'm sure everything is fine."

  "Except I'm sure they'll both think I'm with child."

  Alec smiled. "Let them think that if it makes them happy. I'm sure it won't be long before you carry our babe."

  "You're awfully sure of yourself." She paused, taking a bite of bread. "Norwood will have them both off to Paris in a few days. Our indiscretion will soon be forgotten."

  "We'll make it up to them by hosting a soiree of some sort."

  "I'm not sure I'm up to entertaining yet." She smiled at him saucily.

  "Another reason to remain in Scotland. Besides, our mothers will likely stay in Paris for the summer."

  "It'll do my mother good."

  She picked up his empty plate and put it with hers before returning them both to the wicker basket. She was making busy work. Alec wanted more, but for now, they'd have to be satisfied with conversation.

  "I know you wanted to spend the summer in Somerset," she said.

  "There'll be plenty of time to visit. Right now, the important thing is seeing your cousin returns empty-handed back to America."

  "Let's not speak of him. Let's enjoy the day as best we can."

  "In my traveling coach as we head to Scotland."

  "It's a very nice coach," she said.

  He shoved the basket back under the seat. Alec moved to the corner of the seat, taking Margaret with him. "We'll ride after we nap. If it is warm enough."

  "You certainly enjoy your naps, Duke."

  "I have a beautiful wife to share them with. Unless, of course, you'd rather read."

  "Nonsense. There is a chill in the air, and being close to you warms me up."

  He smiled as he pulled her closer to him.

  ***

  Margaret found she had no problem sleeping in the coach. Especially during the day. While she'd much rather be riding, she enjoyed spending quiet time with her husband. Husband. What a strange word. She always knew she'd be married at some point. Never did she expect the first man she met would be the one. If her cousin hadn't come up with the idea of introducing them, she shivered at what her prospects may have been. Alec understood her, and though it was money that first motivated him, he couldn't deny the instant attraction. Margaret was sure of it. Together they would rebuild the dukedom his father had left in near ruins.

  "I have an idea. It will take a number of years to make profitable, but I think it could be quite good for us."

  "You're supposed to be sleeping."

  She ran her hand up his waistcoat. "I will. First let me tell you this. I've been thinking about it for a while."

  "Go on."

  "You know I helped my father with the training of some of his horses. Why don't we do the same. Train racehorses."

  "We'd have to find a decent trainer. You couldn't, nor would I allow you to, spend all your time in the stables training horses."

  "I know. With a good trainer, we could also take in a couple of horses for training. Beyond that, we purchase a good stallion and a couple of suitable broodmares. In a couple of years, we'll have youngsters to train."

  "Hmmm, there are a few horses left in my father's operation. I could make inquiries as to where the animals are, have them moved to Kent."

  She smiled as she peered up at him. "Kent would be perfect."

  "I'll also make inquiries to find a trainer."

  "Please do. I think this could work, Alec."

  He rubbed his hand up and down her back. "We'll need to come up with a plan on paper."

  "Yes. Once we're in Scotland, you can begin to make inquires."

  "I know very little about this, Margaret. I'll pursue it only because I know you have the knowledge."

  "My father was quite well known for his horses. I spent many a day in the stables when I should have been practicing piano."

  He shifted his weight, bringing her closer. "Which I understand from Norwood, you're very accomplished."

  "I prefer violin, but you know what they say about ladies playing violin." She giggled.

  "Ah, yes, brings your arms up. Not very lady like. Or so I've heard. You'll have to play for me."

  "I will. Norwood said you're quite adept on piano as well."

  "Norwood has a big mouth."

  She felt her eyes getting heavy. "I want to hear you play. You do have a music room in Scotland?"

  "I'm sure there's one."

  "Good. I'm afraid I need a nap. The sway of the carriage is making me quite sleepy."

  "You'd better get some rest. I doubt we'll get much sleep tonight."

  She yawned. "Don't forget our ride. If it warms up, of course."

  "You're like a ferret, duchess."

  "You compare me to such an ugly creature?"

  "Only because you never forget."

  "Hmmm. I don't."

  His fingers rubbed the side of her cheek. "Sleep my love. Scotland's still a long journey."

  Margaret couldn't reply. She'd fallen sound asleep in Alec's arms.

  Chapter Eleven

  Many days later, the coach pulled up in front of the Wexwood Scottish home. It was dark, but the walls of the stone structure loomed above them. A castle, and small by Scottish standards, the structure had been changed over the years. Torches lit up the area, giving a welcoming glow to weary travelers.

  Alec led Margaret to the front door, where Mrs. Macintyre and Mr. Frasier stood. He'd managed to send word to them of when to expect them. He'd been brutal in their travel northward. The weather had been in their favor, allowing them to travel far more hours on nights there was a moon. He was tired and had been ready for the trip to end. He was ready to take his wife to their bed.

  A footman opened the carriage door and Alec descended. He held out a hand to his bride and assisted her to the ground. He watched as she looked up at the castle, taking it all in. He then led her to the front door and his waiting butler and housekeeper.

  "Mr. Frasier, I take it you received my missive regarding our arrival."

  "Yes, Your Grace. Everything is ready for you and the duchess."

  Alec introduced Margaret to the pair. As the new duchess, this would be one more residence she would be in charge of. At least when she was in residence, and Alec wasn't quite sure how much they would be able to venture up here. Though he loved Somerset, he knew he'd go wherever his bride wanted. She'd been fascinated the further they got into Scotland as the scenery began changing.

  Once inside, Margaret looked around at the great hall before speaking. "Would it be possible to have baths drawn for His Grace and me?"

  Mrs. Macintyre nodded. "I'll see to them immediately."

  Margaret turned to Alec. "I'm sure you have a few matters to take care of. I'll see you shortly."

  "I need to speak with Mr. Frasier first, then I'll be up."

  Margaret followed Mrs. Macintyre up the grand staircase. The chandelier in the middle of the hall flooded the stairs with light as they ascended the stairs. Margaret caught the scent of tallow. Why would the housekeeper not use beeswax? Surely things weren't that bleak. She would discuss it with Alec first before going to the housekeeper.

  They turned down a hallway until they came to the end. The light was not as bright, giving a cold feel to the hall.

  "These are the duchess's chambers, Your Grace," the older woman said as she opened the door. Margaret passed by her and into
the large room. Obviously, the fire had not been started but for a short time. The room still carried a chill. There was a settee and two ladies’ chairs in an area nearest the window. Heavy drapes covered the windows. A dressing table sat against another wall, along with a dressing screen.

  Margaret nodded and followed the housekeeper into the dressing and bathing chamber. A large copper tub sat in the center. Footmen made their way in and out a back door, depositing water into the tub, trying not to look at their new mistress.

  Her lone bag sat in another corner. "Is this all you brought with you, Your Grace?" Mrs. Macintyre inquired.

  "Yes. My husband didn't want to be weighed down on the journey. More will arrive shortly," she lied. "Until then, I'll have to make do or perhaps find a modiste to make some new dresses."

  "There are some excellent women in Edinburgh, Your Grace."

  Margaret nodded and watched as the last of the footmen left. Mrs. Macintyre took a linen and soap and placed them by the tub.

  "I'll take your dresses and have them cleaned and pressed for you, Your Grace. They'll be ready first thing in the morning."

  "Thank you."

  Mrs. Macintyre eyed her. "You didn't bring a lady’s maid either?"

  "No."

  "I'll take care of you this evening, Your Grace. There is a young woman on staff that would be excellent until you find one or have one brought from London."

  "I'm sure whoever you have in mind will be just fine."

  "Very well. I'll introduce you to Fiona in the morning."

  Margaret hesitated, but allowed Mrs. Macintyre help her out of her clothes. She'd already gotten her other traveling outfit and two dresses she'd managed to bring out of her bag for the housekeeper.

  "Is there anything else you'll be needing, Your Grace?"

  "No, thank you. My husband's rooms?"

  "The ducal chambers are through the door on the far wall. If that is all, I bid you a good night, Your Grace."

  "Good night, Mrs. Macintyre. Thank you. I know the hour is quite late and you've had a long day. I can manage the rest."

  The woman disappeared out the door with Margaret's clothes. She waited before taking off her undergarments and stepping into the tub of hot water. It was sublime. She never knew how much a simple pleasure like a bath could make her so happy.