The Viscount's Salvation (Honorable Rogue Book 3)

by Vikki Vaught

  Kathleen approached with the gentleman she had observed earlier. Mary met the man’s amazing amber eyes and her pulse jumped. Gooseflesh tingled along her arms. She had never had such a strong reaction to any man before. Mary’s breath hitched as he stopped before her. Could this man possibly be the one for her?

  ****

  Cortland’s heart hammered, and his pulse raced as he glanced around the ballroom. He should not have attended. The crowd and having to make polite conversation had his anxiety level racketed so high, he feared he would start breathing so fast, he would pass out. This was too overwhelming to his senses. In fact, his head spun from the last four days. Between meeting Anissa’s new husband, being reunited with his nephew, Harry, meeting his sister’s new baby, Anthony, and his brother-in-law’s adorable daughter, Melanie, he had not had a moment to grasp it all.

  When he had gone to the tailor on Wednesday with Hawks, he barely kept himself from running out of the shop. Having someone touch him, even in an impersonal and very professional way, made his skin crawl. It was necessary since he could not appear in public dressed in his rags, and none of his brother-in-law’s clothes would fit, since the man had to weigh an additional two stone and was at least four inches taller. Keeping a tight grip on his emotions, he had managed to control his anxiety and now he was dressed out as a gentleman again.

  One problem had been dealt with. Alex had managed his estate the past winter and had hired a new steward. The income from the property allowed him enough funds to cover his expenses and the children’s. From what he understood, his father’s man had retired and had let the estate run down before doing so, but not enough to do any real damage. He had also met with his brother-in-law’s solicitor and started the legal process to adopt Gerrard and Aimee.

  He was glad to see Aimee returning to the pursuits of a child. Melanie and Harry welcomed her and had included her in their active play. Gerrard was another matter. The lad did not act comfortable at all. Cortland suspected he felt much as he did. Overwhelmed and at a loss to understand how to fit into this new world they had been thrown into. Perhaps if he found the lad a tutor it would help him settle in. He would speak with Anissa tomorrow.

  Anissa’s sister-in-law, Kathleen, Baroness Billingsley, spoke to him, bringing him back to the moment. “I’m so pleased you could attend tonight, Captain Wallingford. I hope you’re enjoying the ball.”

  He hesitated. How should he answer such a question? It had been so long since he had attended a ton party; he definitely was not enjoying himself. “It’s certainly a lively entertainment. The orchestra is very good. I appreciate you including me at the last minute.”

  His hostess smiled, and her entire face lit up with unabashed enthusiasm. “Of course I wanted to include you. You’re now part of my family. I want to say, I admire you for bringing Gerrard and Aimee with you. You’re so fortunate they were able to help you escape so you could be returned to your sister. In the time she has been married to my brother, I have grown inordinately fond of Anissa. She has given my brother a new lease on life.”

  He began to relax as the cheerful woman talked. She was like a breath of sunshine. Her husband was a lucky man. Then she looked at him with a suspicious gleam in her eye as she said, “If you would agree, I have a few friends I would like you to meet. Shall we take a stroll around the ballroom?”

  While a stroll around the room was not what he would choose, it would be impolite to refuse. “That would be delightful, Lady Billingsley.”

  He offered his arm, and she slid her hand through the crook of his elbow. “Please, let’s dispense with such formality. Call me Kathleen, at least when we’re with family. I know London society are such sticklers regarding propriety, but as an American, I like to use first names with close friends and family.”

  Cortland admired this young woman’s forthrightness. It helped put him even more at ease, and he believed he could manage to meet her friends, surely women. He hoped she did not plan to play matchmaker. The last thing he needed was a wife to complicate his already convoluted life. It was enough trying to adjust to being home after such a long time.

  They moved from one gathering to another as Kathleen introduced him to her friends. Thankfully, not all of them were women after all. She also introduced him to several of her husband’s friends. The baron had gone out of his way to extend the hand of friendship by inviting him to go to Angelo’s on Monday, if he was interested. It had been a while since he had fenced, but he used to be quite good at it, so he had agreed to go.

  His sister stood with her friend, the Duchess of Barrington, and another young woman. As they approached, he met a pair of the most gorgeous blue-green eyes he’d ever seen and wanted to fall into them. The young lady was petite and very slender, yet so graceful. She had soft, rose-colored lips, and a pretty blush to her cheeks. A frisson of desire flickered to life, catching him off guard.

  The baroness stopped in front of the young lady. “Good evening, I want to introduce you to Captain Wallingford.” She glanced at him and added, “Captain, this is my friend, Lady Mary.”

  He bowed and kissed her hand, as was expected. “I’m pleased to make your acquaintance, Lady Mary. Are you having an enjoyable time this evening?” His voice sounded raspy, as if he did not use it often. Of course that had been the case until recently. Evidently, it was also still somewhat affected from his near hanging.

  Lady Mary gave him a tentative smile. “I’m having a lovely time. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Captain Wallingford. I understand you’ve recently returned from time abroad. I hope you are enjoying your visit with your sister?”

  “I’m thrilled to be back in England at last.” He hesitated. Should he ask her to dance? He realized he wanted to, which shocked him. Kathleen looked at him expectantly, and before he had a chance to ponder it further, he heard himself ask, “Would you stand up with me this evening, that is if you have any space left on your dance card?” Would he even be able to remember the steps? Surely, they would come back to him.

  “It would be my pleasure, sir,” she replied in a soft, melodious voice. “Would the dance after supper do?”

  “That would be excellent.” Again, his voice came out husky. “I look forward to it. I think I shall go to the card room until our dance. Excuse me, ladies.”

  Anissa interjected, “If you see my husband, let him know I would like a word with him. I believe you will find him there. I saw him and His Grace go in that direction a few minutes ago.”

  “Certainly. It would be my pleasure.” He bowed, then turned and made his way out of the ballroom.

  Once he had moved into the entryway, he looked for an empty room. He discovered the library, entered and sagged against the door. Socializing was much more difficult than he had anticipated. He had always enjoyed parties before. Now, he could barely keep from shaking.

  Why had he asked Lady Mary to dance? The words were out of his mouth before he could stop them. His reaction to her shook him to the core. Well, it was too late now. He would have to make the best of it and hope he did not make a fool of himself.

  The thought of moving around the ballroom sent terror to his heart. People could jostle him, and he did not like to be touched any longer. Even returning his sister’s affection after the initial shock of seeing her again, felt uncomfortable.

  He exhaled, then sighed. He was no longer the carefree charmer he used to be. Now he would just like to go home to his estate where he could isolate himself. Of course, it would be another week before he could leave. The war office wanted to talk with him about his experience. He had given them the information of what he had seen in Calais, but they had more questions regarding his captivity.

  The last thing he wanted to do was relive his ordeal. It was enough that it had happened. He could see no useful purpose in rehashing it. From what he understood, England and France had signed a treaty ending hostilities shortly after he’d been captured. Evidently, the first set of captors continued to hold him, because by the time t
hey heard the news, the peace was already deteriorating. And, of course, England was again at war with France. The peace had not lasted long, only fourteen months.

  Wanting to steer his mind to more pleasant memories, he filled it with the image of Lady Mary. Her soft-looking, dark brown hair, that would surely fall past her waist, had him imagining what it would feel like, how it would smell. Her startling blue-green eyes seemed to look into his soul, and her petite figure was gently curved in all the right places. His pulse sped, and he felt a stirring in his loins. Before the night was through, he would touch her dainty hand as they danced.

  Whether he acted the fool or not, he was glad he had asked her. Remembering he had told Anissa he would tell Alex she wanted to see him, he straightened his shoulders and made his way to the card room. After speaking to his brother-in-law, Lord Billingsley motioned him over and asked if he wanted to join their game.

  Taking a seat, he began to play. Before long, he had a stack of coins and had relaxed while drinking a glass of port. The baron stood. “Gentlemen. It’s time for the supper dance, and I need to find my lovely wife. It’s been a pleasure as usual. Wallingford, I look forward to furthering our acquaintance on Monday.”

  The other gentlemen asked him to continue playing, but he decided he would return to the ballroom. As he was trying to put on some of the weight he had lost, he wanted to make sure he partook of the supper provided.

  When he entered the room, his eyes landed on Lady Mary as she gracefully skipped down the center of the dancers with her partner. She obviously enjoyed dancing a great deal. A gentle smile graced her face, and a twinge of something had his heart speeding up a bit. He now eagerly looked forward to their dance.

  The thought of holding her hand, of placing his arm around her waist, shot a wave of desire through him. While still uncomfortable with these unforeseen emotions regarding the lady, he was still glad for the opportunity to spend more time in her company.

  As the dance came to an end, his sister appeared at his side. “Would you like to join us for supper?”

  Smiling, he told her, “I can think of nothing I would rather do. Lead on, dear sister.”

  CHAPTER FIVE

  After the supper dance ended, Mary’s partner, Mr. Mandrake, led her to the dining room. When she wanted to join Kathleen’s table, he told her, “I would prefer to take one of these smaller tables, so we can talk.”

  Remembering that Mr. Mandrake had pursued her friend prior to her marriage with the baron, she acquiesced. Although, the last thing she wanted was to have a tête-a-tête with the gentleman.

  Once he helped her to her seat, Mr. Mandrake went to the refreshment table, giving her a moment alone. She surreptitiously glanced over at Kathleen’s table. She was surrounded by her family, and Captain Wallingford was among them. Her heart skipped a beat as she had the opportunity to observe him without being too obvious.

  A lock of his wavy brown hair fell over the right side of his forehead, making her itch to run her fingers through it. Good Lord, where had that thought come from?

  His face, while a bit lean, glowed with health, and from what Kathleen had told her, he had come back looking emaciated. He must have already put some weight on since his return. His dark green evening jacket and gold striped waistcoat molded his figure, showing his lean yet muscular physique.

  Goodness, I have never noticed how a man’s clothing wrapped around his shape before.

  What attracts me to him?

  His unusual amber eyes called to her, and she looked forward to their upcoming dance a great deal. They would clasp hands as they danced, and a thrill shot through her, unlike anything she had felt before.

  Mr. Mandrake returned with full plates and took his seat, pulling her away from her musings. His Adam’s apple bobbed in his throat. “I hope you enjoy my selections. Since I was not sure what you would prefer, I brought you a bit of everything.”

  Looking at the plate in front of her with lobster patties, several small sandwiches, cheese and fruit, it was definitely more food than she was accustomed to having. “Thank you, I love lobster patties and the rest looks delicious.”

  They sat eating in silence for a few moments before he spoke again. “May I tell you how charming you look tonight, Lady Mary? Would you be interested in going for a drive tomorrow? I have a high perch Phaeton, and I am a notable whip, just like my father.”

  Startled, Mary met his clear blue gaze. They were definitely his best feature. Mr. Mandrake had never shown her any attention before. No man had, really. While she was flattered, he made her uncomfortable, and he had smashed her toes earlier while they danced. Even though she was supposed to be looking for a husband, and she certainly could not be overly choosy, Felix Mandrake was not a gentleman she could ever favor with any kind of affection.

  Of course, she had so little time, he might be her best chance. He was Viscount Hewett’s heir, and her father would possibly accept his suit, especially since his family was quite wealthy. While that did not matter to her, it would to her miserly father. Plus, he would see that this young man could easily be controlled to his benefit.

  “Lady Mary, did you hear my question?” he asked.

  Oh dear, she had completely forgotten to answer him. While she did not want to go, she should anyway. “That would be lovely. I would be happy to go. I have never ridden in that type of conveyance before.”

  He smiled, then preened. “Excellent. I shall come for you at four o’clock.” Fortunately, the orchestra began tuning up, so the dancing could resume. “Since we have finished eating, I shall escort you back to your chaperone. I look forward to our drive tomorrow.”

  Once she returned to Kathleen’s side, Mr. Mandrake gave a stiff bow and hurried away. Kathleen rolled her eyes. “Now he is certainly not who I would want for you. He pestered me last spring, and for some reason he made me feel very uncomfortable. He dogged my every step, but ultimately, I owe him a great favor. Without his annoying behavior, I might have never married my husband.”

  Mary giggled. “I know. He is a nuisance, but as you well know, I may not have a choice. I only have until the middle of next month to bring someone up to scratch.” She sobered. This had her remembering what faced her if she was unsuccessful, and a cold chill ran up her spine.

  “Don’t worry, Mary,” Kathleen assured her, “We will find someone better. In fact, I see Captain Wallingford across the room. He should be coming soon to claim his dance. I think he would be perfect for you.”

  Mary sighed. “I doubt very much that the captain is looking for a wife after his ordeal. I’m surprised he even asked me to dance.”

  “You know,” Kathleen told her, “he has a huge reason to find a wife. He brought those two French children back with him. He’ll need to find them a mother. And, why would he not want to dance with you? You look beautiful this evening. If I do say myself, I chose the perfect gown for you. That color has your eyes sparkling.”

  She glanced at her gown, admiring the lovely color. “I’m so grateful to you. I would never have picked this shade of aqua. I’m so used to having my dull white gowns and the gray and lavender ones that I naturally gravitate to them. I would also never have chosen such a low-cut bodice.” Then recalling what her friend had said about the captain, she added, “I hope you’re right about Mr. Wallingford needing a wife. He seemed so nice when I met him earlier.”

  Kathleen nudged her. “Here he comes now.”

  As Mary watched him approach, gooseflesh formed under her long aqua gloves, and her pulse raced. Oh, it would be so wonderful if she could attract the captain’s attention. Before she had a chance to grow more nervous, he was in front of her.

  He bowed. “I believe this is our dance, Lady Mary.” He held out his hand, and she placed hers in it, then he led her to the dance floor.

  Once they were across from each other, waiting for the music to begin, Mary’s erratic heartbeat escalated even more. She drew in a gasp of air, hoping to slow it down, but it did not seem to help
. The gentlemen bowed low, and the women curtsied, then the dancers stepped forward and joined hands. It took everything in her to keep hers from trembling. When he clasped her hands with his warm ones, he pulled her close, then spun her around before they separated again.

  At last, it was their turn to promenade between the line of dancers. As they joined their hands together and skipped through the others, she grew breathless, and it was not from the exertion.

  It gave them an opportunity to speak, and he asked, “Are you enjoying your evening?”

  “Very much, Captain,” she answered, barely able to speak from her need to take in air. She had never reacted to anyone as she was to this gentlemen, not that she had danced with many before tonight. “My friend has done a wonderful job of arranging this ball. It’s her first one.”

  His smile warmed his eyes to molten caramel. She could easily become lost in them. “I would never have known, if you had not mentioned it. I’m pleased with my sister’s new family. While they may not be new to her, they are to me. Her husband and his sister, the baroness, have been most welcoming indeed.”

  Before she could respond, they moved apart, since they had reached the end of the line. His voice was compelling with its husky overtones. She could not wait for their next turn, so they could resume speaking. She wished a dance could be invented that would allow a couple to stay together without constantly having to separate. It would be wonderful to have Captain Wallingford’s arms around her for a full set. But, alas, no dance such as that existed, and likely never would. That would be scandalous to say the least, but she could still dream.

  When it was their turn again, he clasped her hand and put his arm around her waist. Did he pull her closer than normal, or was it just her imagination, because she wanted to feel his embrace? “I imagine it must be somewhat overwhelming to be around so many people again. Kathleen mentioned your captivity.”

  His arm stiffened as he replied, “It has been a long time, but I’m so glad to be back with my sister, I shall persevere. I suppose I’m the talk of town. The long-missing captain returned from the dead.”