True Love's Deception

by Marie Higgins

  She laughed. “It’s mainly my father and mother’s friends. Not Juliana’s.”

  “But she must have a few.”

  She shrugged. “Not likely. She may have had some before she left to go live in Scotland, but every time she returned for a visit, she had become overbearing and rude. People just didn’t want to be around her.”

  He stroked her pink cheek. “Ah, but Maddie, she has changed. After all—” he tried not to let anger lace his voice, “—Mr. Fielding found her an enjoyable companion this afternoon.”

  Maddie nodded. “I’ll admit, I’ve seen a big difference in her. But—”

  He arched an eyebrow. “But?”

  “I’m wondering if it’s all an act for my parents.”

  He chuckled. “No, sweet Maddie, it’s not. I wouldn’t be married to her if she treated me with disdain.”

  She grabbed hold of his hand and took a step closer. Her big blue eyes held him captive. Almost like her sister’s could. He’d be a fool to ignore her advances. Yet she was just a child. Why would she be attracted to him in such a way when she thought he was married to her sister?

  “But, Andrew, she doesn’t treat you right. True, the first day you were here she fawned over you and hung on your every word, but she’s ignored you and snapped at you every day since. Look what happened this very afternoon.” She took a step closer. “I think my sister doesn’t love you the way you deserve.”

  A dry knot caught in his throat. He’d always figured Maddie was too curious, but...did she suspect the bargain between him and Juliana? Maddie couldn’t. He’d given a splendid performance and Juliana’s parents didn’t doubt.

  She moved closer and touched his hair, close to his ear. “I think you deserve a better woman, Andrew. A woman who would give you all of her love. A woman who would treat you like a prince.”

  He gulped hard. Oh, dear! She wanted him.

  Over the years, many women had tried to seduce him, but they were usually barmaids. None had been a noblewoman. Then again, he’d never pretended to be a gentle bred man either. And he wasn’t used to rejecting a woman when it was obvious how much she wanted to bed him.

  This was different. This was Madeline!

  He pulled her hand away from his hair, but she latched onto his wrist as he tried to free it. “Maddie—”

  “Shh...” She stepped closer. Earlier he had discarded his jacket and waistcoat, and now he regretted that decision. He’d also loosened two buttons on his shirt, which was exactly where her gaze had wandered. What had he done now?

  He couldn’t let this continue. But he didn’t want to hurt her or make her angry with him. He had no idea how to handle this. Too bad he wasn’t a true gentleman. He’d know what to say then.

  Chapter Eight

  Tingles cascaded all over Maddie from being so near. Feeling this way was wrong, but she couldn’t help herself. She was helpless to control the emotions bursting inside her right now. Since the first day she’d met Andrew, she’d fallen hopelessly in love.

  Her stepsister didn’t deserve him. Maddie did.

  Using the pad of her thumb, she rubbed his skin at his wrist. “The secret is out, Andrew. I know about you and Juliana.”

  Telling this one little white lie wouldn’t hurt. In doing so, she might discover what was really going on between her stepsister and the man Maddie wanted more than any man she’d ever met.

  Andrew’s eyes widened at first, then his brows creased with uncertainty. “What are you talking about? What secret?”

  “I know your marriage isn’t one of love. You can tell me the truth. Think of me as your friend, Andrew. I care very deeply for you.”

  Heaving a sigh, he raked his fingers through his hair. “Maddie, you don’t know what you’re saying.”

  “Shh...” She pressed her finger to his lips, wishing she could kiss him soon. Desperately, she wanted to feel his strong arms around her, holding her intimately. “You don’t have to deny it any longer. There’s no way you can possibly love my sister.”

  He shook his head. “You are mistaken.”

  Inwardly, she boiled with anger. Why was he being stubborn? Couldn’t he just confide in her? How else was she going to get him to fall in love with her? He didn’t really love Juliana. Nobody could really love that woman. She was too cold-hearted.

  Not Maddie. She would give her heart to Andrew and treat him like a king. If only he’d let her.

  “Please, Andrew. Let me show you—”

  From up the slope near the house, Juliana’s voice rang through the yard, calling Andrew’s name. Maddie gnashed her teeth and silently cursed. Next time she wouldn’t be interrupted. Next time she’d get Andrew to confess his secret—and in doing so, he might confess his love for her, too.

  She withdrew and took a step back.

  Andrew waved to Juliana. “Over here, darling.”

  Maddie seethed. This man needed her love, not the pretend love of her sister. For a couple of years, Maddie had been searching for the perfect man to give her heart—and soul—to. She’d found him now, and she didn’t know how, but she’d get past the issue of his marriage to her sister.

  Pasting on a smile, Maddie turned to welcome her sister into their conversation. As Juliana hurried down the hillside, her strawberry curls bounced in rhythm around her head. Maddie had always wished she had her sister’s hair color. When Juliana reached Andrew’s side, her cheeks were flushed, and her eyes twinkled.

  “I’m so happy I found you.” Juliana clung to his arm and rose up on her toes to kiss his cheek, but he turned his head and the kiss landed on his lips instead.

  Maddie grimaced. Why did he do that in front of her? Hopefully, she hadn’t frightened him with all the talk of love. If she had, she’d change his mind. She’d make him so he wasn’t afraid of her any longer.

  The kiss was simple, and Juliana stepped back. Maddie waited for Juliana to reprimand him again like she had in Town, but bright pink blotches highlighted Juliana’s cheeks. Andrew’s smile widened. He looked relieved, too.

  “What has gotten you in such a good mood?” Maddie asked her sister.

  Juliana met Maddie’s stare. “My birthday gown just arrived.”

  “Oh, splendid. That means mine has arrived also.”

  Juliana stepped to her and clasped her hands. “Indeed, it has, and you’ll be so thrilled to see what I ordered you.”

  Andrew chuckled. “Why don’t the two of you see to your gowns?” He kissed Juliana’s cheek. “I shall be up momentarily.”

  “As you wish.” Juliana slipped her arm around Maddie’s and pulled her next to her as she walked toward the house.

  Maddie glanced over her shoulder at Andrew whose expression was still pleasant, yet had a surprised element to it. His eyes were wider than before, just as his smile.

  Her heart skipped a beat. If only he’d smile that way at her.

  Turning back toward the house, she made a vow that she would change his mind. Soon, Andrew would look at her with love in his eyes.

  WHEN THE WOMEN WERE far enough away, Andrew let out a gush of pent-up air. What was that about? Why was Juliana acting so sweet? A mere dress wouldn’t have been able to make her that happy. It was as if this afternoon had never taken place.

  Well, if she could forget about it, he definitely would.

  Although he shouldn’t complain. He enjoyed the kiss they shared in front of Maddie. He supposed the kiss was all for show. So then why did Juliana blush? And why did her eyes light up like stars? And why was he noticing? That woman definitely distracted him in the worst way...not to mention her stepsister.

  He sighed again. Maddie. What was he going to do about that sister? Her curious mind was getting the best of her, and he feared one of these days, she’d figure out Juliana’s farce.

  He turned away from the fence and walked past the stable. Remembering the missive Maddie had given him earlier, he reached in his pocket to retrieve it. Strange that he would get a letter. Nobody knew he was here. Nobody
knew him anyway, unless they recognized him as being a stable boy.

  Fear made his heartbeat still for a mere second as his throat gripped with panic. What were the odds? Yet, he’d never worked for anyone in England. Only Scotland.

  He pulled the paper open and scanned the scribbled writing.

  You’re in over your head, boy. Go back home before someone gets hurt. It just might be you...

  Andrew sucked in a breath and read it again. None of this made sense. He turned the paper over. It did have his name on it...or the name Juliana had given him to use. He must show this to Juliana, as soon as possible. Maybe she’d have a clue to what it was about. But then, they couldn’t leave until after she got her inheritance. She needed that money to save her grandmother’s estate, so they must stay a little longer.

  Frustrated, he marched toward the house. He couldn’t let Juliana know. He didn’t want to upset her anymore than he usually did. It looked as if he would keep low and try not to make too many friends while he was here since it was obvious somebody didn’t want him to. So be it. There were other things that could keep him entertained. If Juliana didn’t, he knew her sister would, although he’d need to explain to Maddie he was a married man.

  As he hurried up to the house, his head swam in confusion. Why couldn’t he put aside his feelings for Juliana? It was obvious she detested him and couldn’t stop thinking of him as the stable hand. Why couldn’t she think of him like her sister did? He did deserve to be treated with respect. He deserved to have the love of a woman who could fill his days with joy and his nights with passion.

  Although Juliana denied having any feelings for him, he could tell she did. Perhaps it was the idea of breaking her defenses that made him not give up. He’d experienced her passionate kisses, and he wanted more. He’d gotten a taste of her sweetness, and he’d do anything to have her treat him that way forever.

  When he reached the house, Constance and Clifford were in the ballroom giving instructions to the decorators who were putting together Juliana’s party. The older woman’s eyes sparkled with excitement, and Clifford’s grin widened as he watched his wife. Andrew’s heart melted. Obviously, this couple was in love. Oh, to be in their shoes for only a day.

  But he didn’t think that would ever happen—especially if Juliana found out about their marriage. It would ruin him for certain.

  He paused to enjoy the moment as he listened to the instructions given. Constance knew what she wanted, and he pictured it in his head. Yes, the room would be beautiful for Juliana. It would please her greatly.

  There’d be a buffet and dancing...

  Sucking in his breath, he froze. Dancing! He didn’t know how to dance! He must speak to Juliana immediately. They had no time to waste. She had to teach him before tomorrow tonight, and he hoped he was an astute pupil just as he’d been so far with her teachings.

  Bounding up the stairs, he hurried toward Juliana’s room. From down the hall, the echoes of giggles floated through the air. He grinned. Hopefully, Juliana and her sister were getting better acquainted. It might help with Maddie’s curious nature.

  Reaching the room, he knocked. Pearl opened the door.

  “Good afternoon, laddie,” she said with a stern voice.

  “Could you let my wife know I need a moment of her time as soon as possible? When she is finished with her sister, could you have her come to my room?”

  “As you wish.”

  He ran his fingers through his hair as he walked to his room. Why hadn’t they thought of this before now? Could he learn to dance before tomorrow? He knew it took most gentlemen several months.

  He rushed inside and sat on the bed. After a few seconds, he stood and paced the floor. Restless, he wracked his brain. Had he ever been taught to dance? Probably not. Why would a boy of his station need to know how to dance?

  A soft knock came upon the door, and he hurried and opened the portal. Juliana stood with her hands clasped against her middle, still wearing the frock he’d seen her in by the stables.

  Her smile wavered. “You need to speak with me?”

  “Yes. Please come in.”

  He pulled her inside and closed the door. Unclasping her hands, he held them in his. “We have a problem.”

  Her eyes widened. “What is it?”

  “I do not know how to dance.”

  She blinked a few times, then her expression fell and she scowled. “Drat. I’d thought I’d taught you everything in the coach. I never thought about dancing.”

  “Do we have enough time for you to teach me now?”

  Heaving a sigh, she nodded. “Let’s pray you are a quick learner.”

  A half hour later, she’d located a music box and had started instructing him in his bedchambers. He enjoyed holding her, although it wasn’t exactly the way he’d like. But nonetheless, it was nice to have her be polite and courteous to him. Even when he stepped on her toes, she laughed, which eased him greatly.

  “Now Andrew, we must become serious. After all, if you are to portray a gentleman, you must act like one, and dancing is something all gentlemen know how to do.”

  “Yes, Mother,” he muttered.

  She chuckled, then sobered as she slid back into the role as instructor. Happiness burst in his chest knowing she had just as much fun as he had. So then what had happened this afternoon at the Tea Shoppe? And why did she act as if it had never happened?

  As she taught him a certain dance step, something in his memory broke through and confused him greatly. Was it a memory from his past? Why else would he feel like he’d done this before?

  He pictured himself as a young lad, perhaps in his seventh or eight year, standing in dance position with a girl a whole head taller than he. The girl’s face wasn’t clear, but the raspy voice of the dance instructor made his nerves bristle. Strange, but he could see the older woman’s face perfectly. Her white hair had been wound so tight on the back of her head it practically made her eyes bug out. And her nose had a witch’s wart on the right side.

  Andrew laughed out loud from the image, causing Juliana to stop and stare with wide eyes.

  “What is it you find amusing?”

  He shrugged. “I don’t know except I must have had some strange dream about dancing.”

  She tilted her head. “A strange dream?”

  “It must have been. I don’t think I’ve ever been taught to dance, yet for some reason, I can remember dancing with a girl older than I; and our teacher looked like a witch—wart and all.”

  She huffed and folded her arms. “Are you comparing me to a witch?”

  He laughed. “Of course not, my dear.” He pulled her into his arms. Although this wasn’t the dance position, it was where he wanted her. “You are much easier on my eyes, and have such a sweet voice. I have no idea why I dreamed up such a thing.”

  She slipped out of his embrace. “Please do not hold me in such a manner. I still have not forgiven you for this afternoon.” She held her arms in the dance position. “Shall we continue then?”

  He nodded and let her carry on, even though all he wanted to do was cuddle her against his body and kiss her endlessly. Being this close made him wish for things that may never be. Against his will, he’d been entrapped in her charming power, and he was helpless to break free.

  Another hour passed and soon he made it through the whole dance without stepping on her feet. When the tune was over, she praised him on a stupendous job.

  “Will I make you proud at your birthday ball?” he asked, warily.

  “Indeed you will, Mr. Lawrence.”

  She lifted on tiptoes and planted a kiss on his cheek. Instinctively, he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her body close to his. She gasped, wide-eyed.

  “I would like a better praise, if you don’t mind.” He dropped his gaze to her mouth. “Heaven help me, but I want to devour your lips and kiss you until you are breathless.”

  Hitching a breath, her lips parted, but no sound came out. Nothing to discourage him anyway. Inste
ad, her gesture invited him to continue. “Juliana, even though you crushed me with your rejection this afternoon, I still want you in the worst way.” He bent and pressed his mouth to hers.

  Her gasp met his breath as her body stiffened, but soon her lips relaxed and she went limp in his arms. He ran his hands over her back as he turned the kiss urgent. A moan escaped her and she clung to his shoulders. Satisfied in her reaction, he lifted her and in three steps, brought her to his bed. They fell on the mattress together. Another heady moan rattled in her throat and she arched, meeting his sultry touch. He kissed her like a man starved for passion, and she answered just the same.

  Could this be the moment he would make her his? If only for tonight. After all, they were married in the eyes of God.

  Breathing heavy, Juliana raised and lifted her gaze to his. Uncertainty flashed in the blue-green depths. His efforts stilled as he met her stare. Would she turn him down or go with her feelings and allow him to continue?

  He cupped her face and kissed her again, more gentle this time. She responded, but after a few kisses, she turned her head.

  “No, Andrew,” she said with closed eyes. “I cannot.”

  “Why?” He stroked her cheek.

  Her chest rose and fell quickly, but she didn’t speak. Finally, she shook her head and pushed him aside as she scooted off the bed.

  “I cannot be the woman you stake your lusts upon.”

  “Juliana, wait—” He reached for her and caught her wrist. She glared at him. “Juliana, it wouldn’t be like that, and you well know it.”

  “I know no such thing.” She struggled to release her wrist, but he held it prisoner. “Please let me go,” she pleaded.

  The softness in her plea and pain in her eyes made him release her. She swung and scurried to the door, but instead of opening it, she rested her head against the wood.

  “I do not want this to happen again.” She took a deep breath and squared her shoulders. “I will see you downstairs for dinner.”

  When the door slammed, his heart shattered into a million pieces. What had he done? Then again, he must not have done enough for her to second guess what was happening. Why couldn’t she realize they would be good for each other?