Ravaging the Duke

  Margaret quickly explained how she could be related to both men. It amused her to be asked that question again. "Norwood has been quite gracious in helping my mother and me. Our move back to England might have been a lot harder if not for his generosity."

  Anna nodded. "He does seem a kind man."

  "He is. Beyond a fault. I hope you don't mind that I've paired you up with him. For croquet and cards. Dinner, also."

  "Of course not. He did extend your invitation to us."

  "You met Norwood in Paris while he was there?" Eleanor inquired, fully knowing the answer.

  "Yes. He said he escorted his mother, along with both of yours, to Paris."

  Margaret nodded. "My mother had never been before, and the Duke of Evermont has a home there. It seemed like a good idea, especially since the ladies love it there."

  "Paris is nice. Especially for all the shops and fashion there. I could lose myself in the fabric they offer. It is so hard for me to pick just one."

  Eleanor smiled. "It is hard to make a choice. I take it you had some gowns made up while you were there?"

  "Yes, a couple," Anna replied quickly.

  "So what's next after visiting England? I would love to travel the continent," Margaret prodded. She was trying her best to break the ice with this woman, but it seemed no matter how hard she and Eleanor tried, Anna wasn't going to budge. Her short, clipped answers were a testament to that.

  "I'm not sure. We may stay for a while. My brother has business interests that extend to London. I believe he wants to see if he can't expand. He owns two ships and is looking at steam powered."

  Margaret wondered if they were aware of Alec and Cameron's own business dealings with ships and moving goods to and from the Caribbean. She would remain quiet on the subject until she had a chance to speak with her husband. The look Eleanor had given her told her her sister-in-law was also wary.

  Eleanor nodded. "London certainly is the place for a lot of the shipping industry. Perhaps you can find a home to rent. Quite a few become available during the summer."

  "I'm sure he will look into it. I know he wishes for me to marry, but we haven't stayed in one place long enough for me to meet or get to know any men with an interest."

  "Then you will have plenty of time here. Like I said, I've paired you with Norwood on several things," Margaret replied, adding, "My cousin is quite competitive and rarely loses at anything. Not once he's set his mind to the task."

  Anna smiled and picked up her cooling cup of tea. "I will remember that."

  "I thought we might go into the village tomorrow. It's quite popular this time of year. One of the duchess's favorite places."

  "Oh?"

  "My family spent our summers right here in this house. Going to town was always a special treat for us."

  Anna laughed. "Forgive me. I keep forgetting how it is you're all related. Actually, I admire you all for it. My father was English as I'm sure you've guessed, but preferred the continent over his birth place, so I have little knowledge of how things work here."

  Eleanor spoke as she set her cup on the table beside her. "I'm surprised with your aristocratic connections and family. Especially with your father being English. Some peers go to great lengths to make sure everyone knows their backgrounds."

  "You're right. Then again, it might be something I never paid attention to as a child."

  Margaret nodded. She wasn't sure how much of the girl’s statement she believed. There was something odd in her demeanor that intrigued her. It was almost as though she wasn't being entirely truthful. "You're probably right. It's something, especially as girls, we pay little attention to."

  Her guest suddenly put her cup down and rose from her seat. "If you'll excuse me, I find myself quite tired. My brother will understand."

  "But of course," Margaret replied. She had no idea what else to say. Nothing was going to change her mind.

  After Anna left the room, Margaret faced Eleanor. "Something is not quite right."

  "I agree. She certainly didn't like us discussing family matters."

  "Except the prince consort. That seemed to be safe conversation, but if we moved it to her family, she became uncomfortable."

  "Do you think we should mention it to Norwood?"

  Eleanor shook her head. "No. Let me talk with Cam first. His connections on the continent are many."

  "Whatever it is, she's hiding something. I pray we're wrong for Norwood's sake."

  "Agreed. It's obvious he has affections for her, and she seemed the same with him."

  "I know. Did you see the way they looked at each other?"

  Eleanor began to pour another cup of tea, then set the pot down on the tray. "I did, but obviously the girl is hiding something."

  "Perhaps being in the company of two duchess's might be a bit overwhelming to her." Margaret laughed lightly.

  ***

  Later, in the privacy of the duke's rooms, Margaret decided to mention what had transpired earlier in the sitting room.

  "There is something odd about our guests," she said as Alec softly kissed her neck.

  "Odd? Outside of Miss Anna retiring early, I found nothing odd. In fact, I dare say she is quite taken with Norwood."

  "Eleanor and I tried to have a conversation with her about her family. She seemed quite uncomfortable."

  His kisses traced upward to her ear. "You and Eleanor are quite a force together. You probably intimidated her, nothing more."

  She slowly began to untie his cravat with one hand. "Perhaps, but she seemed reluctant to speak of anyone, including her parents. The only relative of remote fascination is the prince.”

  "I'm sure my sister will have Cameron sending word to his associates on the continent to look into her and her brother."

  "I hope it was nothing more than the fact she was tired and wasn't ready to speak about such matters," Margaret said softly. "How do you find her brother?"

  "He seemed to be exactly as he presents himself. He's had the responsibility of his sister since their parents died. He's anxious to see her married."

  "To a peer. An English one at that."

  "Yes. He's determined to settle here. His business would probably do better here."

  "What about my cousin? Did he behave himself? It was hard for me to engage in conversation with him, since he was at the opposite end of the table."

  "Are you making mention with how the seating arrangements went?"

  She nodded. "Yes, Eleanor insisted."

  "He seems genuinely interested in establishing himself here. He wants to hold off accepting the position in Scotland."

  "I don't entirely trust him. I would have thought he would be eager to land such a position."

  Alec kissed her cheek. "Don't worry. He'll be watched when he returns to London. Just in case this is all a ruse."

  Margaret knew her husband wanted to end all conversation on anything except themselves. It was hard for her. There was little time to talk to Alec except late at night or very early in the morning. He needed to hear her concerns on both subject matters.

  "That makes me feel better. I don't completely believe him."

  "Neither does anyone else. It's too convenient." He nuzzled her neck. "Now enough of this. I have more delicate matters to engage with you."

  "Such as?"

  "Removing your gown."

  She giggled. "You've become quite the expert on that, Your Grace."

  Alec slid an arm around her waist. He pulled her against his taut frame. His other hand palmed the side of her neck.

  His mouth covered hers, a gentle assault on her senses, exploring her mouth that sought both of them to give and take pleasure. His hand threaded through her hair and angled her head to give him better access.

  The hand on her waist slid down to press her hips into the muscled space between his legs. Margaret's body became aware of the hardness of her husband pressed against the part of her where they were meant to fit.

  Her husband was not a passive partner
. He was lustful. She felt his tongue in her mouth, teasing and tasting her. She tugged at his cravat and the buttons of his waistcoat. He yanked at the silk cravat, and sent the waistcoat buttons across the floor as he tore them both off. He threw them aside.

  He stripped off his shirt and pulled her close again. He paused only enough to tear her chemise in half. He wanted her flesh against his. He picked her up and tossed her onto the bed. Alec stopped long enough to take off his trousers and smalls before joining her. His eyes flared with want as she wiggled out of her undergarment, kicking them away. She presented a decadent feast before him. He covered her body with his, pressing her knees wide and plunging inside her, making them one.

  She slid her arms around him as he arched his body into hers. His eyes closed and his mouth fell open as he gazed down at her with passion-filled eyes. He lowered his mouth to suckle her breast, causing her to moan. Her breathing became ragged, and a raw sound emerged from her throat.

  Her body stilled pulsed around him as he held his weight on his arms, waiting for her to come back from her pleasure. Slowly, she opened her half-lidded eyes; a satisfied smile curved her lips.

  She began to move under him, and he met her thrust for thrust. She slid her fingernails down the nape of his neck, her body arched against his. He made a guttural sound as he thrust deeper, until he spilled his come within her, and they became one.

  Margaret snuggled against Alec's chest as he held her close afterwards. The only sound in the room outside of the fading fire was the sound of their breathing. Alec reached for the sheets and covered their sweat-slick bodies and pulled her close to his pounding heart. He kissed the top of her head and hugged her tighter.

  She didn't remember much else that night. She didn't need to. Alec was there to chase away any monsters.

  Chapter Twenty-Six

  Late the next morning, the party found themselves traveling to town. Margaret was particularly excited at the prospect of getting to explore some more. She, Eleanor, and Anna rode together in the carriage as the men followed alongside on horseback. Margaret was pleasantly surprised that her cousin, Jacob, had joined them.

  She had arranged for luncheon while they were out. Eleanor had told her of an old public house that was not only a landmark of sorts in the village, but was a favorite among the many tourists in the area. She'd sent word that the proprietors would know to expect a rather large party.

  Shopping was also on the agenda for the ladies. Though not as fine as London, there were a couple of shops which stocked locally made items. Items from London were available, but Margaret chose today to learn more about the local items.

  She'd thought the trip would be a good time for Anna and Norwood to spend time with each other. Unfortunately, Anna seemed to ignore him.

  As the carriage left them at their destination, Eleanor took the lead. She knew the village far better than Margaret, so she walked beside her sister-in-law. Anna was walking with her brother, and she noted a rather sullen Norwood walking behind them.

  "Why is she ignoring Norwood?" she whispered to Eleanor as they walked down the street to a row of shops.

  "Perhaps she doesn't want to seem obvious by flirting with him."

  "I don't know. She's barely even recognized him today. I wonder if perhaps she's decided she can do better than an Earl."

  "Maybe they should be paired at luncheon today. Cards tonight as well."

  "Something's changed. Norwood is even flustered by her actions."

  Eleanor nodded. "Perhaps we need to speak with her. Without the men. She may open up to us if we're alone."

  As they stopped in front of a shop with women's haberdashery, she quickly gazed at the young woman who was speaking quietly with her brother. She barely noticed or showed any emotion about the shop they'd stopped in front of.

  Eleanor tactfully told the men they'd prefer to wait outside while they went to see what the shop had to offer. She promised they wouldn't be long, which got a laugh out of her husband, the Duke of Evermont.

  The shop consisted of various things a woman might need. Gloves, ribbons, all things they would have brought, but may need more of. Margaret watched Anna as she picked over the samples of ribbon. She seemed bored with what they were doing.

  Margaret inclined her head. "Is there something in particular you're looking for?"

  Anna looked surprised at her comment. "No, I really have no need of anything."

  "I see."

  Eleanor was trying on black leather gloves. "Margaret, you must try on these gloves. They're perfect for riding."

  "I do need a new pair."

  "Anna? Do you ride?" Eleanor asked as she pulled the second glove on her graceful fingers.

  "Yes."

  "You really must try these on."

  Anna walked to where Margaret and Eleanor were standing. She picked up a pair of dark gray gloves. "You're right. These are perfect for riding."

  The other two women nodded and watched as Anna tried on a black pair. Margaret felt they'd made strides to win the young woman over. At least that's what she hoped. Maybe what she'd needed was a gentle push to feel at ease.

  The women deemed the shopping trip a success as they left the shop, each carrying a couple of parcels each. A footman came and retrieved the packages from the women to take to the carriage. Anna seemed much more relaxed with her surroundings as the women continued to walk toward the tap room. They were about three doors from the establishment when Anna spotted a shop carrying embroidery silks and yarns in their window.

  "I left my embroidery at home. I've missed having it to occupy myself on rainy days," Anna said as she entered the shop.

  Margaret and Eleanor followed her and watched the young woman as she sorted through the various colors of threads.

  "One can never have too many," Eleanor said. She picked up shades of green, looking for precisely the right shades.

  "No, you can't. I'd rather have too many than to run out," Margaret said.

  By the time they left the shop each woman had enough threat and canvas to begin a new piece of embroidery work. Margaret smiled at Alec, who gazed at her as she stepped up next to him. She knew where his thought lay, and it wasn't proper.

  "I trust you ladies are ready for luncheon," he said.

  "Quite. Shopping can be quite exhausting," she replied as she handed a footman her package.

  Alec bent down and whispered in her ear, "How is it going?"

  "Quite well," she replied.

  They'd reached the tap room where they were going to eat. The building was quite old, and the establishment had been there as long. As they stepped inside, the timbers and walls were darkened from years of smoke.

  Alec went first and spoke with the proprietor, who led everyone into a private room away from the tap room. This time, Jacob and Anna's brother, Henry, sat together. Anna had taken Norwood's offer and sat next to him. Margaret was pleased to see the young woman seemed to be more relaxed. At least in public and around Norwood. She hoped it was a sign that Norwood had not misread the signs when in Paris. Perhaps, given time, the pair would settle in. Perhaps even marry. Her cousin deserved to find happiness after all he'd done for others.

  As they sat there enjoying a meal together, the weather took a turn. Sudden rain and storms were not uncommon. Unfortunately for them, the dark clouds seemed to fixate themselves onto the coastal town.

  Margaret looked at her husband. If the rain was going to set in, it would make for a long day.

  "Perhaps we should return another day. It looks as though the weather has taken a turn," Alec said. He glanced around the table at all the nodding heads.

  Evermont peered out the smoke darkened window. "Agreed. We need to get on the road as soon as we've finished. Rain like this will make the road difficult."

  Truth was, heavy rains like this one would make travel almost impossible in a few hours. Going to London would take several days. Roads would be rut filled, if not impossible to pass.

  The group hurried a
nd finished their meal. The carriages came around for the group, waiting. Luckily, Alec and Evermont had the foresight to anticipate the unpredictable weather. There would be enough room that the men would not have to ride back in the now plummeting rain.

  Margaret and Alec had the company of the duke and duchess on the way back. Norwood and Anna followed in another carriage accompanied by her brother and Jacob. The two couples rode back in silence at first.

  Eleanor broke the silence. She smoothed her skirts with her gloved hands. "I'm afraid the rain is here to stay for a few days. Have you activities planned for such an afternoon?"

  "I'm sure the men can occupy themselves with Alec's billiard table. The ladies can play cards. Or we have our needlework to occupy the time."

  The carriage heaved to one side as it went into a rut. "That will work for a day or two. Perhaps by then the sun will reappear."

  Margaret's face lit up. "I had planned a picnic. What if we held it indoors?"

  Eleanor nodded and smiled. "That would be splendid. We could have some potted plants added and hold it in the afternoon drawing room. That is, if that's okay with you, Margaret."

  "I think that's a wonderful idea. The room gets far more light in the afternoon. It would be perfect for such a dreary day."

  Plans are made and plans are broken.

  Chapter Twenty-Seven

  Two days later, the rain had not let up. Everyone grew restless. Despite her best tries, Margaret could not shake everyone's sullen moods. The second day, the day when she planned on holding her indoor picnic, Anna and her brother announced they were heading back to London.

  Norwood was quite distressed, trying his best to delay their departure. It was to no avail. Her brother had business to attend to.

  Norwood disappeared upon their departure. Margaret finally found him in the music room. He was in a dark mood, sitting in a chair looking outside at the never ending rain.

  "I'm sorry they had to leave. You seem quite enamored with Anna."

  "I am. Her brother, however, does not feel spending days idle is good for anyone."

  "Are you going to call on her when you return to London?"