Ravaging the Duke

  Alec shook his head. He had to stay true to his beliefs.

  ***

  Margaret awoke to the late morning sun as it beamed into her windows. Last night had been the first time of their short married life she hadn't slept with Alec. Their argument had been too painful. She'd fallen in love, and now here she was, trying to keep her heart from breaking.

  She thought they had the perfect marriage. Her husband cherished her, her values and beliefs. Almost as much as she did. Where had she failed? She never expected he would be so dismissive and final on the subject. Was she stuck in this marriage with a selfish, stubborn man? A man she loved with her entire being. A tear escaped her eye, and she wiped it from her face.

  A knock on the door caused her to turn.

  "Am I interrupting? I was concerned about my wife." Alec stood before her as handsome as ever.

  Her heart squeezed at the sound of the dark, rich rumble of his voice. With words, he'd made her vulnerable. She closed her eyes, seeking her inner strength.

  He walked across the room and took her hand. He raised it to his lips. The gesture made her heart skip a beat.

  From nowhere, tears started to well in her eyes. She took a deep breath in an attempt to control her emotions.

  "I've upset you. I can't stand your tears." He reached into his jacket and handed her a linen. "Your tears take a sliver of my heart. It pains me."

  "Please, don't. I'm glad you're here."

  His expression changed to one of concern. "Margaret, about last night..."

  "Please, don't. I'm not ready to have this conversation again."

  His every word, move, and touch chipped away at her resolve and emotions. He was making this rift between them seem like nothing more than a simple debate. It wouldn't take much to convince her that he truly cared for her in every way.

  He clasped her hand. "What must I do to convince you of my feelings for you?"

  "Find Jacob. Speak with him. Have Norwood and Evermont talk with him. Please. You'll see I'm right."

  "And if none of agree he's worthy of a second chance?"

  "I'll accept your findings." She stared at him with green eyes.

  He brought her hand to his lips once again. "I didn't like sleeping alone. Did you?" He wanted to make things right between them.

  "Wasn't your bed comfortable, Your Grace?" she countered, her face softening.

  He laughed. "No, it wasn't. Not without you."

  She looked through the window, then back at him. He squeezed her hand.

  "You mean everything to me, Alec. We can't let something so simple come between us like this."

  He leaned in and pressed his lips to hers. Gently. "I love you," he whispered. "I think I've loved you since the first time I laid eyes on you."

  "If you can't understand how important this is to me, I'm not sure the love we share will help."

  "I just told you I'd find Jacob and talk to him. Along with Norwood and Evermont. You must understand, wife, I am not willing to simple give your cousin the benefit of the doubt. Do you have no idea how it would pain me if he agreed and then later took you?"

  She stood in front of him, saying nothing. Finally, she nodded. "Very well. Though I'm not in complete agreement of your proposal, I'll agree on one condition."

  "What is that?"

  "That I can be present when the three of you speak with him."

  Alec was careful not to agree. Not to what she thought he was agreeing. "I guess I best write Evermont and Norwood. See if we can't find your illusive cousin."

  Chapter Fifteen

  Norwood sat in his study a few days later. Since his return from two weeks in Paris, all he could think of was Miss Anna Grover. She and her brother were supposed to be in London, having left Paris two days before him. Alec had postponed his return, not wanting to appear too anxious. He knew where she and her brother would be staying in London. He'd send a missive to her and make arrangements to see her. No woman had stirred him in quite a long time. Norwood had plenty of women, simply none he wanted as a wife. That was something he'd never taken seriously. Most of the young women he was introduced to were immature, had no voice of their own, and giggled far more than he could tolerate.

  Anna, however, was mature beyond her one and twenty years. Her parents had died suddenly, and she and her brother had been forced to make their own way once they left Hanover. He was still waiting on information about her family there. There was something mysterious about both Anna and her brother.

  "My lord, I have correspondence here from the Duke of Wexwood," his butler announced. He approached Norwood with a silver tray.

  He took the letter and broke the seal. What could be so important that Wexwood would take time away from his bride to do business? He read the contents slowly, then a second time. Alec and his cousin were going to leave Scotland within a fortnight and return to Kent. The initial repairs were underway, and he was certain the estate manager could handle things appropriately now that there was more cash flow.

  Wexwood's letter went on to mention that his bride was wondering if her cousin had been found. She wanted him found so the three men could question him. Alec also spoke of an idea his wife had. Giving her cousin a job overseeing the improvements and repairs to the Scottish estate.

  Norwood shook his head. None of this surprised him. His cousin, he’d learned, had a soft spot in her heart for her cousin. She felt sorry for him and what he'd endured at the hand of his own father. He wondered how Wexwood had taken her stubborn streak.

  He looked up at the butler, who was waiting for a response. "I'll write a response and find you shortly. I will also write the Duke of Evermont. Both need to go out today."

  "Yes, milord. I'll see it's done."

  He found a piece of paper and pen and started composing a letter. He and Evermont would continue looking for Margaret's cousin. They'd come close on a couple of occasions. Maybe they'd get lucky. He'd been spotted in London, not far from Norwood's Mayfair townhome. The idea of turning over an estate to run was ludicrous. The man hadn't proved himself. It was evident by Wexwood's letter he didn't trust the man. Not that easily.

  When he finished his missive to Wexwood, he wrote one to Evermont, asking him to call so they may discuss Douglas in person. Away from the duchess's ears.

  Perhaps a few more men were needed to find him. Evermont's men had luck finding him and where he was staying, but as soon as they did, Douglas caught on and disappeared again. He had to be running low on funds. Like Evermont and Wexwood, he didn't believe Douglas would ask his father for more. Not unless he was successful in his father's bidding. But Norwood was certain Douglas had given up since Margaret and Wexwood had married.

  He sealed both missives with his signet ring before sitting back in his chair. His cousin was strong willed and a determined young woman. He wondered how Wexwood was dealing with all this. Especially if she was adamant about her cousin's fate.

  He reached for the decanter of whiskey and poured himself a generous amount. Once he spoke with Evermont, he'd send a letter to London to Anna. He'd wait a day or two before heading to town for a week. If Evermont joined him, they'd be able to accomplish a lot more. Hopefully, by the time Wexwood arrived back in Kent, they'd have found Douglas.

  In the meantime, he would wait until he discussed matters with Evermont before he sent a letter to Anna. Perhaps he could show her around the parks or take her to a museum. The theater would be an excellent way to spend time with her.

  Never had a woman tied him up in knots like Miss Grover. He hoped she would be receptive to his calling on her. He didn't need her money, though he understood from sources her dowry was more than generous. He would put it aside for any future daughters or second sons. Those who received little or nothing from the earldom.

  He ran his hands through his hair. What was he doing? Acting as though Miss Grover would receive him and marry him. There was a mutual attraction, but marriage? Was it possible? He needed to slow down. He couldn't let his cock dictat
e his future. There was more than just him to think of in this matter.

  No, he would send word to her that he would be in London and would like to call on her. Let things run their natural course from there. He'd see where things led.

  He finished his whiskey, picked up the two letters, and walked to the door in search of his butler.

  ***

  The Duke of Evermont reined in his stallion in front of the Earl of Norwood's home the following day. Norwood had sent him a letter suggesting they meet and talk about what, if any, progress was being made in the search for Jacob Douglas. He dismounted and handed his horse over to a waiting footman.

  "Thanks for agreeing to meet me here," Evermont said as Norwood met him in the grand hall.

  "No problem. I understand the duchess is most interested in anything pertaining to her brother and his bride."

  Evermont chuckled. "That is an understatement."

  "Come, let's go to my study. We'll be more comfortable there."

  He nodded and followed Norwood. "I take it your journey was successful?"

  "Yes. The ladies are all settled in, and I was able to get some business taken care of while I was there."

  "Then it was worthwhile."

  Entering Norwood's study, Norwood gestured to a small grouping of chairs near the fire.

  "Whiskey?"

  "Thank you."

  Evermont watched as Norwood poured them each a healthy splash of spirits.

  "My men believe they have found Jacob Douglas," Evermont announced. He accepted the heavy crystal glass from Norwood and took a swallow.

  "But? Have they spoken to him?"

  "No. They don't wish to scare him off."

  Norwood took a long swallow of whiskey. "Is there any doubt it is him?"

  Evermont shook his head. "No; however, where they found him is what's interesting."

  "Where would that be?"

  "At one of the gossip rags."

  Norwood looked at him, confused. "You're saying he's working. Out in the open?"

  "That's exactly what I'm saying. From what my men have found out, Douglas is working on the press."

  Norwood nodded. "Makes sense since his father has a press."

  "Yes it does."

  "Anything else?"

  Evermont smiled. "Evidently he's living in a back room of the establishment."

  "That would make him inconspicuous. He could come and go as he wished."

  "Exactly. I have men posted to follow him, see where he goes when he's not working."

  "And where would that be?" Norwood asked. He swallowed the last of his whiskey.

  "He walks. Nothing out of the ordinary yet."

  Norwood sat back in his chair. He placed the glass on a table next to him. "I believe a trip to London is in order. I think it's time to meet Douglas and see what his plans are."

  "I agree. I need to go to London anyway. I think two days would be sufficient, don't you?"

  "Yes," Norwood replied with a smile. "I take it your duchess will only think you're going on business?"

  Evermont nodded. "A quick business trip will keep her from wanting to go."

  "When do you want to leave?"

  "Day after tomorrow?"

  "Excellent."

  "I'm most interested in finding out why he's here. If he's biding his time, knowing his cousin is married, or if he's decided to stay."

  Norwood rose and crossed the room. He picked up the decanter of whiskey and offered Evermont a refill.

  "Do you think he's deliberately hiding?"

  "If he is, who is he hiding from? His father or my men?"

  "Maybe both." He poured himself another glass and set the decanter down.

  Evermont swirled the amber liquid in his glass, watching it intently. "I guess we'll find out soon enough."

  "Have you heard from your brother-in-law and my cousin?"

  The duke looked up. "Yes. It seems they're cutting their trip short. Wexwood mentioned he wanted to show his bride Somerset before summer ended."

  "Ah, yes. It's his favorite. I take it he's got the estate up and running to his satisfaction?"

  "Yes. He said he'd explain in detail when they arrived next week."

  "From what little your mother-in-law said about the estate, it was neglected. Tenants homes as well."

  He nodded. "Wexwood mentioned all of that has been taken care of, and hopefully, by next year's harvest, they'll see a huge difference."

  "It'll be good to see them. I take it they'll be stopping here before heading on to Somerset?"

  "Yes. He wants to meet and discuss Douglas before he takes his bride to Somerset."

  "Hopefully, we'll have something positive to tell him."

  "I believe we will."

  Evermont took a swallow of whiskey and stretched his legs out in front of him. "Were you able to take any Paris nightlife in while you were there? Or did the ladies have you escort them about town?"

  "I did. With and without the ladies. I met several interesting people while I was there."

  Evermont arched a brow. "I take it you're talking about a woman?"

  "Indeed. I met one incredible young woman. She sort of reminded me of my cousin. Not one of these wallflowers."

  "Tell me."

  "I'm afraid there is nothing much to tell at the moment."

  "Why? Because she lives in Paris?"

  Norwood smiled. "Actually, she doesn't reside in Paris. She was merely visiting."

  "Pity."

  "Not really. "

  "All is not lost then."

  "Hopefully not. "

  Evermont knew that look in his friend's eyes. It wasn't just lust. This woman had made an impression. An imprint on his very being.

  "You must invite them to Kent. If they're coming all this distance from the continent, they should see more of England that just London."

  "The thought had crossed my mind. I thought I'd wait and see how things go once they arrive in London."

  "No better time to do it than now while the women are away. It's so hard to court a woman when one's relations are underfoot, don't you think?"

  "I hadn't thought of it that way, but I see your point."

  Yes, his young friend was quite caught up in whoever this woman was. Norwood was not easily swayed by just any woman. He detested being thrown together with whatever young lady his mother thought appropriate. Norwood avoided a lot of polite society's balls and soirees exactly because of that. Older women were always trying to fling their young daughters or the daughters of a family member onto him. Thank goodness that had never been the case for him. Eleanor had been his one and only.

  Chapter Sixteen

  The return trip from Scotland had started out quiet. Quiet that his bride didn't spend a lot of time talking. Instead, she passed the hours by reading or sleeping. Once they reached the countryside of northern England, her demeanor reverted to her old self. The only thing that didn't change was her lack of passion. She was cold and indifferent during the nights they spent together at the various inns along the way. Alec stopped pushing the issue after a couple of days. Together they would face it once they arrived in Kent.

  A day or two at his estate there would allow Margaret time to rest and relax after such a long journey. Hopefully, she would warm once again to his advances. He couldn't imagine she wouldn't allow him into her bed much longer.

  Though her cousin's well being and her need to see him put into employment in Scotland were the cause of their rift, Alec felt certain he could get his bride to come back around.

  Norwood had stated in a note that he and Evermont had news of Douglas. He'd been found in London, and the two of them were going to town to see for themselves. Alec hoped by the time they reached Kent, the pair would have something to tell. He couldn't stand being at odds with his bride.

  "It's late. I'm sure you would like to go to bed. Would you like a tray?" Alec inquired as they entered the house.

  "Yes, but only if you bring it," she replied as she starte
d up the stairs. "Whatever you can find. Some cheese and bread would be most welcome. Wine would be nice as well."

  Alec smiled at her, hopeful she was thawing toward him. "I'll see what I can find."

  ***

  He removed his jacket and laid it across one of the chairs. He walked to her dressing area and opened the partially ajar door. His wife was leaning back against the edge of the tub.

  "Have you dismissed your maid?"

  "Yes. I was afraid she would fall asleep, poor thing."

  "It is rather late. Would you like me to wash your back before we retire?"

  "Would you mind?" She leaned forward, picking up a sponge. She slowly picked up a cake of lavender soap in her other hand and began rubbing it against the sponge.

  Alec rolled up his sleeves as he neared. He took the sponge out of her hand and began slowly washing her back. He started with her shoulders, working his way down, leaning forward to kiss her neck.

  "I've missed you," he said. He kissed the shell of her ear before returning to her neck.

  "Let's not dwell on the negative. Help me wash, then I wish to sleep."

  "I brought a tray. We'll eat first."

  He dipped the sponge back into the water. His cock twitched as he did. He needed her, needed her to know she was loved and protected. With his free hand he slowly cupped her breast from behind. She moaned as he took her hardened nipple between his thumb and forefinger. Her legs parted, spreading wide for him.

  She leaned back against him, dipping one of her hands beneath the water.

  "Touch yourself," he said hoarsely.

  Margaret said nothing, her hand hovering over the apex of her legs as though waiting for his further instruction.

  "Touch yourself. Make yourself come."

  "I want you..."

  "And you shall have me. First show me what you want."

  Her hand slowly began moving as she explored her most intimate parts. "I want you to touch me here. I want to feel your fingers inside me, your mouth on me. Here."

  "Can you make yourself come?"

  Her head shook. "I don't know how."

  "Yes, you do." He placed his hand over her smaller one and began to guide her fingers over her folds, parting them. Then he placed her finger over her clit. "Touch yourself. Make yourself think of my mouth sucking you."