True Love's Deception

by Marie Higgins

  “I want to discuss it now, if you don’t mind.”

  She scooted on the bed and sat with her back against the bed frame. “What is wrong? Did something happen at the ball?”

  “Actually, yes.” He slipped his hand over hers and caressed her soft skin. “I met someone that knows me.”

  She gasped and clutched his hand. “Oh, Andrew. I’m so sorry. I had no idea this would happen!”

  He shook his head. “It’s not in the way that you think. You see...it seems I have a past that even I didn’t know about.”

  “What do you mean?”

  “Do you remember telling me the story of the boy who was kidnapped seventeen years ago that belonged to the Lawrence family?”

  “Yes.”

  “Well, it seems, somebody thinks I may be that lost boy.”

  “What?” Her eyes widened.

  “Lady Madison—eh—Mary Kate thought I resembled her brother, and the Duke of Ashton thinks I’m an exact replica of Mary Kate’s father.”

  “What is the boy’s name?”

  “You won’t believe this.” He shook his head. “The boy’s name is Andrew Dean Lawrence.”

  “Oh, Andrew.” She put her fist to her mouth. “I had no idea.”

  He chuckled. “Neither did I. I don’t remember my family, although lately I’ve been having memory flashes of me and an older girl who may be my sister.”

  “Mary Kate?”

  “Yes.”

  “So maybe you are her brother.”

  He ran his fingers through his hair. “I wish I could remember more, but no matter how hard I try, I cannot.”

  She frowned and held his hands in hers again, squeezing slightly. “I wish there was something I could do to help.”

  He moved his gaze over her, noticing for the first time how thin her nightdress was, and how very lovely she looked with her hair flowing over her shoulders. Yearning to make this woman his wife awakened inside him and reminded him of his goal to win her heart. They were alone. The mood was set. Now was the time.

  “Actually, my dove, there is something you can do.” He scooted next to her and wrapped his arms around her. She fell into him quickly, placing her hands on his chest. She smiled and stared up into his eyes.

  “Juliana, you can comfort me as only a woman knows how to comfort a man. Take my confusing thoughts away and replace them with thoughts of making love to you.”

  “Oh yes, Andrew. Yes.” She leaned forward and met his seeking mouth. Immediately, the kiss turned hungry. Wild. Very passionate.

  He closed his eyes and enjoyed the heat spiraling through him—enjoyed the way she fulfilled his wish...to take away all confusing thoughts. He loved her, and he couldn’t wait until she knew.

  She felt wonderful in his arms. More than he was prepared for. He would never have anyone as wonderful as Juliana. But really, he didn’t want to look.

  She satisfied him. Completely.

  Indeed, this night would be what they both needed.

  MADELINE SHOVED HER breakfast plate away and stood. Having breakfast by herself bored her to tears. But really, the liquid in her eyes wasn’t because of boredom. It was because she knew what had happened last night between Andrew and Juliana.

  After everyone had gone to bed, she sneaked out of her room to go visit Andrew in his. He wasn’t there. Because of the heavy sighs she’d heard from Juliana’s room, Maddie knew exactly what was happening.

  With a heavy heart, she hurried out of the dining room and outside the house before the tears started falling again. The cool wind touched her face and dried her eyes. Unfortunately, it couldn’t warm her heart.

  Only Andrew could do that.

  A noise from her right brought her attention to a man riding on a horse as he galloped into the drive. She scowled. Why was Gregg about this early in the morning?

  He stopped the horse as a servant came to collect the reins, then Gregg jumped down. His gaze combed over Maddie’s yellow day dress before a grin appeared on his handsome face.

  “Good morning, Madeline. You are looking radiant today. Can I hope you dressed like this for me?” He walked toward her.

  Gregg Fielding was too cocky for his own good. If anything, the man could make her smile. She flipped her hand in the air, but he caught it and pressed a kiss on her knuckles. “Oh, Gregg. You flatter yourself. Why would I dress this way for you?”

  He stepped back and clasped his hands to his chest. “Oh, dear lady. You wound me deeply with your sharp tongue.”

  She rolled her eyes. “Over dramatizing again, I see.”

  He laughed and took her hand in his. “So then why do you look so beautiful this morning?” He swept his fingers over her cheek. “Although, I must say, your cheeks look flushed next.”

  She sighed heavily. “I have a lot to be upset about today, and I am not in very good spirits.”

  He stepped back. “Thanks for the warning.”

  She arched her brow. “I can do without your humor today.”

  Slipping his arm around her shoulders, he brought her closer to his body. “Why? Are you afraid you’ll fall prey to my charms?”

  “Hardly. I just don’t want you to think I am like all your other women and will fall helplessly at your feet.”

  He chuckled. “Now who is the one who is flattering themselves?” He sobered. “Besides, I know who you really want.”

  “Just as I know who you really want.”

  He dropped his arm and stepped back. “Madeline, I have told you once before I am not in love with my sister-in-law any longer. I love her like a sister now.”

  Maddie shook her head. “I’m not talking about the duchess. I’m referring to my sister, Juliana.”

  “Pardon?” His eyes widened. “You think I want your sister?”

  She faced him fully and crossed her arms over her chest. “Well, don’t you? Last night you couldn’t stop following her around with your gaze, and you couldn’t stop telling her how pretty she was.”

  He chuckled. “My dear, if I didn’t know you were in love with Andrew, I would think you were jealous of the attention I give Juliana.”

  “Jealous? Ha! I’m not jealous of my sister.”

  He stroked her cheek with his finger, sending warmth through her skin. Little shivers of delight danced through her, and she cursed herself for having this reaction to him.

  “Ah, but you are, little one. Juliana is the one who holds Andrew’s heart, and you cannot tolerate it.”

  Pouting, she pushed his hand away. “Gregg Fielding, I hate you.”

  A smile broke across his face. “No, I don’t believe you do. We are too much alike, and I think you like me more than you care to admit.”

  Lifting her chin, she turned and began to walk away. “Why do you not just leave? If you have come to see Juliana, she is not taking visitors. She and Andrew have been holed up in her bedroom all night and morning.”

  His deep laughter made her stop and swing around. She gnashed her teeth. How dare he enjoy this!

  “Oh, Madeline. No wonder you are in poor spirits with tidings such as this. I cannot say I blame you, though. I remember what I felt like when I realized my brother was in love with Catherine and I would never have her.”

  “Then why are you teasing me when you should be comforting?” she whined.

  He stepped near her and ran his hands up and down her arms. “Because the last time I tried to comfort you, you later told your sister I had raped you.”

  Without being able to stop it, her face flamed with embarrassment. “As it is, Juliana is not receiving visitors.”

  Dropping his hands, he stepped back and looked up at the house. “That is very disappointing. I suppose Andrew is not receiving visitors either.”

  “Andrew? What could you possibly want with him?”

  He looked back at her. “I have a message to give him from my brother, Nicholas.”

  “Whatever for?”

  “It seems the Earl of Grenwick wants to set up a meeting with A
ndrew so they can meet him.”

  She cocked her head. “Why for heaven’s sake?”

  “You haven’t heard the gossip?”

  “No. What’s the gossip?”

  He grinned. “Does this mean I actually know something you do not know?”

  She plopped her hands on her hips. “Are you going to tell me or not?”

  Gregg chuckled. “Well, it appears Andrew just may be the Earl of Grenwick’s long lost son.”

  Gasping, she brought her hand to her throat. “The one who was kidnapped all those years ago?”

  “The very same. Even Nick believes it. Apparently, the kidnapped son and Andrew’s life align perfectly.”

  She turned and glanced up at the house toward Juliana’s window. “Do you mean Andrew could be the next heir to the Lawrence fortune?”

  “Exactly. That is why Nick wants me to set up a meeting between Andrew and Matthew Lawrence.”

  Grabbing Gregg’s hand, she grinned. “Then come. We do not have a moment to lose.”

  Gregg’s forehead creased. “I thought you said they were indisposed this morning.”

  “Well, their play time is over, and personally, I cannot wait to put an end to it.”

  Chapter Fifteen

  No matter how hard it was, Andrew pulled himself away from Juliana and climbed out of bed. Being with her all night long and into the morning brought him more happiness than he thought possible. He didn’t want to leave her side, but Gregg awaited him downstairs and he couldn’t keep his guest waiting any longer.

  She rolled to her side and frowned. “I wish you didn’t have to go.”

  “Me, too, my love.” He stroked her cheek.

  “Why is Gregg here at this hour anyway?”

  “Last night the duke mentioned setting up a meeting with Matthew Lawrence and his wife to see if I was there son.”

  “Today?”

  He shrugged. “I don’t know, but I need to find out. I am as eager to get this out in the open as they are. I am also eager for my memory to return.”

  Pulling on his waistcoat, he walked back to the bed. Juliana sat on her knees and wrapped her arms around him.

  “I miss you already,” she said.

  “And I you, my love.” He bent and briefly kissed her lips. “I do not plan on being long, especially when I have a very passionate woman waiting for me right here.”

  She smiled wearily. “I will wait as long as it takes.”

  He kissed her again and pulled away. “Rest while I’m gone.”

  She crawled between the sheets and laid her head on the pillow. “I shall try.” She yawned.

  Andrew stared at her for a few minutes, debating on whether to verbally express his love for her. It had been on his mind all night long, but he feared to tell her. What if she didn’t return the feeling? Could he handle such a crushing blow to his heart?

  He turned and left the room, heading downstairs to his visitor. It had been almost an hour since he was informed. Hopefully, Maddie kept Gregg entertained. As he entered the parlor, he breathed a sigh of relief. Both Gregg and Maddie were sitting at the game table playing chess. She laughed at something Gregg said, and the man’s smile widened while he looked at her. It made Andrew happy to know they were getting along.

  He cleared his throat. “Forgive my tardiness, Mr. Fielding.”

  Gregg stood from the table and met Andrew halfway across the floor. Gregg put out his hand in greeting. “No need to apologize. Madeline kept me quite occupied in a challenging game of chess.”

  “Good to know.” Andrew smiled. “Would you like to talk here or adjourn to the study?”

  “Right here is acceptable.”

  Andrew motioned to the sofa. “Would you like to sit while I pour us some drinks then?”

  Maddie jumped up from her chair. “I shall do that for you, Andrew.” She moved to the liquor tray, but kept her gaze on him. “Go ahead with your meeting and I’ll get the drinks.” She glanced at Gregg. “What will you have?”

  “Brandy.”

  She looked back at Andrew. “Scotch for you?”

  “Yes, thank you.” Andrew tried to ignore the heady look on Maddie’s face as she gazed into his eyes. He really wished he could discourage her feelings for him. He could never come to love her since he was head over heels in love with Juliana.

  As soon as Andrew sat on the sofa, Gregg cleared his throat and leaned forward. “Nick has talked with the earl and his wife, and they are both eager to meet you, especially since Mary Kate could not stop talking about you.” He held up a hand. “But I have to warn you. Many men have claimed to be their son, but none have succeeded. Nick and I would hate to have them disappointed again.”

  Andrew nodded. “Understandable, Mr. Fielding. Since I do not remember much, all I can do is meet with them and pray my memory returns.”

  “Nick says you have remembered Mary Kate being your sister?”

  Pausing, Andrew waited until Maddie served the drinks before he answered. “Yes, I remember having an older sister whom I had called Mary Kate. But in all my flashbacks, I do not see my parents.”

  Gregg sipped his drink. “Perhaps you are the missing son after all.”

  Andrew shrugged. “I suppose we find out when I have the meeting.”

  “When is a good time for you?”

  “How about tomorrow at three?”

  Gregg smiled. “No need to fear. I will arrange it.”

  JULIANA FROWNED AS she sat by Andrew during the opera that evening. They had to be chaperones for Maddie and Gregg, and although Juliana would have rather stayed home with Andrew, her sister claimed to need her.

  Juliana opened her fan and waved it against her face. Poor Andrew looked so uncomfortable sitting next to her, staring at the stage. So far the evening had been a disaster. The ton had heard the rumor, and they couldn’t stop gossiping. And staring.

  He shifted many times in his seat. Juliana wished she could whisk him away and be alone with him again, but she was obligated to be with Maddie and Gregg. Not only did the ton try to talk to Andrew, but Gregg had been acting very friendly toward Juliana tonight, which in turn made Maddie fawn over Andrew. Juliana knew her sister had feelings for Andrew, which was the reason Juliana wouldn’t let him out of her sight.

  Once again, Andrew shifted in his chair and sighed heavily. She leaned over, tapped him on the shoulder and whispered, “I am sorry about tonight. I didn’t realize it would be this bad.”

  He gave her a forced smile. “That is all right, my love. I didn’t think people would be this irritating either.”

  “Are you going to be able to finish watching the opera?”

  “I sincerely hope so.”

  She sat back and tried to listen to the singing, but her focus kept moving out toward the audience. Half of them had their heads turned toward their box as they whispered and pointed Andrew’s way. Inwardly, she groaned and looked at Andrew.

  After fifteen minutes, he leaned in to her. “Darling, please don’t get vexed with me, but I cannot be here any longer. I feel as if I am suffocating.”

  She touched his arm. “Where will you go?”

  “I’ll take Gregg’s carriage, but I’ll have it returned for the three of you.” He squeezed her hand. “Please don’t worry about me, my love.”

  She smiled. “How can I not? If you are not happy, neither am I.”

  “Stay with your sister and Gregg. I’m sorry to do this to you.”

  Frowning, she nodded. “I will give my apologies to them for you.” She kissed her finger and put it to his lips. “Until later, my love.”

  He smiled, kissed her hand, then stood and left the box.

  Both Gregg and Maddie looked over their shoulder to watch him leave. Neither said anything, but turned back to the stage.

  The grueling hour of the opera crept by at a snail’s pace. Juliana was ready to scream. It also irritated her that Gregg seemed so caring. He had moved her chair up beside his so the three of them could sit near the edge of
the box. Every so often during the performance, he leaned over and asked her if she was all right. Finally, after the fifth time, she’d had enough.

  “Gregg, you must stop this. I appreciate your concern, but I’m fine.”

  He patted her hand. “I can see how hard this is for you. Let me know if there is anything I can do to comfort you.”

  She smiled, and whispered, “Once again, I appreciate your concern, but what would make me happy is if you could show a little more attention to my sister.”

  He leaned closer. “I cannot help it. You know how much I enjoy playing the knight in shining armor who rescues the damsels in distress.”

  Juliana held back a laugh, but slapped his arm playfully. “Gregg Fielding, you are simply wicked. Do you know that?”

  “Only to you, my sweet.” He winked, then turned back to the stage.

  At long last, the opera ended. Juliana couldn’t wait to get home and hold Andrew. He had made her feel things she’d never expected last night—most of all, the warmth in her bosom when she thought about staying with him forever. She knew beyond a shadow of a doubt she had fallen madly in love with this incredible man.

  Too bad she didn’t dare tell him. Telling him meant commitment, and right now she was confused on that subject. Although she loved him, she didn’t know if marriage was what she wanted. Albeit, having Andrew in her life forever sounded very pleasing.

  When Gregg escorted both her and Maddie to the coach—each sister on a different arm—Juliana thought he looked mighty proud as a peacock. She bit back a laugh. The man made her smile whether she wanted to or not. She enjoyed his batty flirtation, but wished he did a little more with Maddie.

  When they returned home, Juliana excused herself to hurry upstairs to Andrew’s room only to find it empty. Her heart ached with sadness. She wanted to be here to comfort him, and for him to comfort her. She wanted to be in his arms, being his loving wife all over again.

  Dejected, she left and walked to her room. Staring in the mirror, she took her hair out of the stylish bun Pearl had fashioned earlier this evening, combing out the locks and letting the bulk wave down her back. She considered changing into her nightclothes, but it was still too early.