Leo shoved his chair back. “Shit.”
“Precisely. I have an account that she took a carriage back to the city. But where she’s gone, I can’t say for sure.”
“And whom did you hear this from?”
“No one of concern.”
Leo smacked his hands on the desk for emphasis. “I will drag every last bit of knowledge out of the person you got this information from. Tell me who it is.”
Tristan stood, planted his palms on the desk, and shoved his face closer. “Word will arrive momentarily.”
“Who is the woman?” Leo pressed. That had to be where Tristan had gotten his information.
Tristan’s hands tightened. “There is no woman.”
“Tristan, if there is one thing I can tell, it’s when you lie to me.” He strove for calm and failed. The only thing that mattered was finding Genny. “Who is the woman in your room?”
“She is of no consequence.”
“Like hell she isn’t!”
“If you don’t leave this alone, I will personally throw you out of my house.” Tristan tapped his joined fingers hard against Leo’s forehead. “Think logically. Where would she have gone?”
Leo stood and rubbed his hand over his head, mussing his hair. “I don’t know.”
“Does she have family here?”
“No. She doesn’t.” He sat heavily in the chair. “I don’t know if she does or not. I never thought to ask. I’m assuming she doesn’t. She would have gone to a friend’s.”
“Do you know any of her friends?” Tristan asked.
“Just one, and she is in Scotland.”
“Would her cousin have given her money to go somewhere?”
“That’s assuming her cousin saw her before our liaison was made newsworthy.” How in hell was he supposed to find her? “Maybe I should start with Ponsley.”
“You have the sugar duties act coming up. Do you think it wise? He’ll use this to sway the rest of the house against you.”
“I could care less. I need to find Genny. If she has nowhere to go, I don’t want to think what could happen to her.”
Leo leaned his head back and closed his eyes. He was wasting time here. He needed to think about where she’d go. Why couldn’t he come up with one possible place? Waiting here wasn’t helping Genny any. He felt helpless, like a damned child unable to do anything for himself right now.
“What if Lady Carleton doesn’t know where Genny is?”
“Must you be all doom and gloom, my friend?”
“It’s the only thing that has been on my mind for the last twenty-four hours. How can I not think the worst when I know she has no family to turn to?”
Tristan tapped his desk. “There was one other rumor that I dismissed as balderdash.”
Leo came to attention in his chair.
“Someone mentioned that the carriage she borrowed stopped in front of Jez’s for some time.”
He was headed out the door at a run before his friend could finish his theory on the carriage.
Chapter 25
A little bird informed me today that a certain marquess has received a veiled midnight visitor under the safety of a moonless night. I will not speculate just yet as to who the mysterious woman is because there is something far more interesting to the whole scenario, and that is … that the lady stayed the night in his private residence.
The Mayfair Chronicles, August 14, 1846
“Jezebel?” Leo shouted as he pounded his first against her door.
It swung open mid-pound. Jez stood on the threshold, expression curious.
“You’ve scared the butler with the way you’ve gone on, Leo.” Jez stood aside so he could enter.
“I’m sorry.” Leo had to lean over at the waist and put his hands on his knees as he breathed in heavily. “I ran here from Tristan’s.”
Jez pressed her palm to the back of his shoulder and rubbed back and forth. “Why would you do that?”
“Is she here?”
Jez leaned over, bringing her face in line with his vision. “She is.”
“Thank God.” He stood, grasped her by the arms, and planted a loud kiss against her cheek. “Where can I find her?”
Jez looked at him queerly. “She’s in the drawing room.”
“Genny,” he shouted, as he jogged down the hall. He burst through the drawing room doors and nearly fell to his knees on seeing Genny safe and sound.
She stood in the middle of the room, hands folded in front of her. She was wearing a borrowed dress—Jez’s most likely; he knew because it was scarlet satin and the prettiest dress he’d ever seen Genny in.
“Leo.”
“Oh, God, Genny. I was so worried.” Leo couldn’t believe he had finally found her and rushed forward, stopping just in front of her when he realized she might not be so welcoming.
Jezebel clicked the door shut, leaving them alone.
“Why are you here, Leo?”
“I’ve been a madman worrying about you since I found out you had to leave the Carletons’.”
“Don’t think because I’ve been properly ruined that you can offer to marry me and save what remains of my reputation.”
He wanted to laugh at her tenacity. “Genny, if we married, it would be because we both love each other and want to spend the rest of our lives together.”
When she lowered her head, he shortened the distance between them and tipped her chin up with his fingers. “Don’t look so gloomy.”
“My life is ruined.” She shook her head. “It happened so fast that I was at a loss for what to do.”
He couldn’t help it; he had to touch more of her, comfort her, do whatever possible to make her feel better. He pulled her into his arms and just held her close. She rested her face over his heart. Her arms were limp at her sides.
“Let me fix this,” he said.
“And what of everything that happened between us? How can I trust you?” She grabbed the material at his waist and scrunched it tight in her fists.
“It may take time before you believe this sentiment again, but you can always trust me.”
She looked up at him with sad eyes. “Can I?”
He nodded his reassurance and caressed the back of his hand over her cheek and kissed her forehead.
“I don’t even understand how we were discovered,” she said. “We were so careful.”
He gathered her close enough to hug her tight again. “It’s my fault. I should have been more vigilant.”
“We were both participants in our affair. It was foolish on both our parts.”
“The biggest gossip was at that party, and I didn’t take extra precaution knowing that. The fault rests solely on my shoulders.” He rubbed Genny’s back. “Lady Hargrove’s name will not fare any better than ours. She’s a ruined woman, too.”
Genny pulled away to look up at him. “What do you mean she’s ruined?”
“Exactly what I said.”
“You mean…”
“Yes, it was her in the maze.”
Genny’s hand came up to her mouth to cover her O of surprise. She was obviously shocked by the news. “It was her? You didn’t…”
Of course Genny would want to know if he’d been the one to spill Lady Hargrove’s secrets. It all came back to the trust issue. He couldn’t blame her for questioning his integrity. “Not I.”
He was rewarded with a smile from her.
“Now, tell me how you ended up here.”
“At the dowager’s?”
He gave a slight nod.
“That’s an interesting and rather long story.”
“I’ve nowhere else to be except here with you.”
She indicated the sofa. “Shall we sit?”
He grabbed her hand and led her over to the seating area.
“I wanted to confront her,” Genny started. “I was so angry that our affair had not only been discovered but subsequently announced to the world that I wanted to blame someone.”
“You should have
blamed me.”
“Oh, I did.”
Leo chuckled. Her hands were folded in his. He massaged her fingers one at a time. He had been carrying his mother’s wedding band in his pocket since he’d left the Carletons. Would she accept it now?
“I confess, too, that I wanted to see what kind of woman would go to such great lengths to ruin someone she doesn’t even know.”
“And…”
“I was surprised by the dowager. She’s not anything like I imagined before meeting her.”
“Jez has always been an outspoken woman who knows exactly what she wants and how to get it in life.”
“Except the lands and estates tied up in the title,” she reminded him.
“True. But that has to do with legalities beyond her control. If it was a request in the will that she get nothing on her husband’s death, everything would be different. She’d find a way around it and make the estate hers. But it’s all entailed.”
He slid closer to her, wanting no space to separate them. Wanting to take her in his arms again and feel her warm body crushed to his.
“I thought most estates were set up that way.”
“Yes, but one usually leaves their spouse with the means to support themselves and live a comfortable life after their death.” God, it had only been a few days and he’d missed her terribly.
“Even though I don’t agree with her plans for Charlotte, I do understand her reasons behind the decision.” Her gaze was pensive when it met his. “Your friend is very sad, and as much as I wanted to hate her, I simply couldn’t.”
Leo smiled. “Jez does have a way about her.”
“She invited me to stay here until she is thrown out by the new earl.” Genny’s brows scrunched up. “Do you really think he’ll toss her out without caring what happens to her?”
“Yes. I do.”
“It’s rather dreadful that I spoke so highly of that man to my cousin.” Genny sighed and leaned her shoulder against the back of the sofa. “I hope Charlotte can convince her father to change his mind.”
This time she took the initiative to tangle her hands through his. Was she accepting him back into her life?
“Genny?”
She leaned closer. “I know what you are going to say, Leo.”
“Do you?” His hand fell to her thigh.
“Yes, you want me to agree to marry you.”
“And will you?”
“I’ve had nothing but time on my hands for the past few days.” She scooted closer to him on the sofa. “I was so angered by the whole scenario that I failed to truly listen to what you were telling me.”
She rested her head back on the sofa and looked at the ceiling. Leo reached up and touched the ivory hair comb he’d given her. It was buried deep in the twisted bun at the back of her head. It brought a smile to his face. She turned and put her cheek in his palm.
“What is your conclusion?” he asked.
“I remembered the things you said to me. About watching over my cousin while spending time with me.”
Leo brushed his thumb over her parted lips.
“It occurred to me that you never intended to stop Charlotte from marrying and that you would make sure your friend had no chance to persuade her otherwise, either.”
He leaned in closer to her mouth. He was going to taste her soon. “Will you marry me?”
“There can’t be any more secrets between us, Leo. Not like that one.” The palms of her hands slid over his chest and stopped.
He inched a little closer. “Never again, then.”
“Do you still love me?” Her voice was barely above a whisper.
“Always.” He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out the chain and ring. “I believe you forgot something when last we parted.”
A smile lit her whole face on seeing the ring.
“I don’t think we need the chain anymore,” he said, freeing the ring from the chain.
“But we aren’t married yet.”
He grinned. “I have something else in my pocket if you care to take a look.”
She reached inside and pulled out the folded parchment. “What is it?”
“A special license. I don’t believe we’ll wait till December to say our vows.”
She grasped his coat and pulled him down to her lips for a kiss. When she pulled away she said, “Yes, I’ll marry you.”
He took her hand and slid the ring on her wedding finger exactly where it belonged, then laid claim to her mouth and heart before she could take her next breath.
Look for these other sensational novels by
TIFFANY CLARE
THE SECRET DESIRES OF A GOVERNESS
THE SURRENDER OF A LADY
THE SEDUCTION OF HIS WIFE
Available from St. Martin’s Paperbacks
PRAISE FOR TIFFANY CLARE
and her captivating novels …
“Tiffany Clare writes a swoon-worthy romance filled with rich details and vivid characters. Any readers wishing for a bold and sweeping historical romance need look no further—Tiffany Clare is a treasure of an author!”
—Lisa Kleypas, New York Times bestselling author
The Secret Desires of a Governess
“With its irrepressible heroine, deliciously dark and dan-gerous hero, and suitably atmospheric setting, Clare’s latest impeccably written novel cleverly references the classic gothic romances of Victoria Holt and Madeleine Brent, while at the same time incorporating plenty of the steamy passion and lush sensuality found in today’s brand of sexy historical romances.”
—Booklist
“With its brooding hero and dark backdrop Clare brings an updated gothic twist to her latest novel. By incorporating the themes and red herrings of a classic Victoria Holt or Daphne du Maurier, she entices readers to keep turning the pages to uncover the mystery and savor the highly sensual romance.”
—RT Book Reviews
“This is an entertaining throwback to the Victoria Holt legendary Gothic tales as Tiffany Clare employs all the elements from the innocent female, to the foreboding castle to the brooding hero inside a romantic suspense thriller. Abby and Elliot are terrific lead characters while the support cast, especially his son, the villagers, and her family, make for a wonderful Victorian Gothic romance.”
—Midwest Book Review
“The Secret Desires of a Governess is excellent reading material for those who like their romance novel with explosive love scenes and a good solid plot.”
—Fresh Fiction
“Hauntingly sensual, The Secret Desires of a Governess is a compelling read that will have readers hoping for more.”
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The Seduction of His Wife
“In her second captivating historical romance, Clare turns up the sensual heat with a sizzling, sexy tale of a husband and wife engaged in a seductive battle of wits that proves to be splendidly entertaining.”
—Booklist
“Steamy.”
—Publishers Weekly
“The second chapter of Clare’s trilogy is as bold and alluring as this exciting newcomer’s first book. Clare takes a ‘second chance at love’ romance, twisting the theme into a highly sensual tale of passion and suspense. But there’s also humor, created by secondary characters, and love to round out a tantalizing read.”
—RT Book Reviews (Top Pick)
“An arousing and amusing Victorian reverse romance!”
—Fresh Fiction
“An exciting and imaginative read that captivates the imagination and arouses the senses. Suspense, intrigue, and passion abound in this historical romance.”
—Romance Junkies
“[The Seduction of His Wife] will draw you in.… You’ll find yourself riveted.”
—Night Owl Reviews (Top Pick)
“Tiffany Clare has penned another superb and masterfully crafted romance. The Seduction of His Wife has all that I love in a book: humor, suspense, sigh-inducing romance, and fan-your-face, sizzling sex scenes.
Ms. Clare’s first book, The Surrender of a Lady, was a bold and daring story, and her latest book is equally as entertaining. If you’ve never read a Tiffany Clare book, run to your nearest bookstore. You don’t know what you’re missing!”
—Romance Dish
The Surrender of a Lady
“A unique, unforgettable, sensual love story sweeping from the harems of the east to staid Victorian ballrooms. Watch out for this sizzling new talent to rise to the top.”
—RT Book Reviews
“Exotic, bold, and captivating. Tiffany Clare’s rich, sensual prose is delightful indulgence!”
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—Anna Campbell, author of Midnight’s Wild Passion
“Tiffany Clare has written an exceptionally exciting and heart-wrenching story of devotion and survival of a young mother, sold into the most despicable of circumstances … Fast-paced, full of suspense, and totally exciting with each turn of the page. A new and refreshing plot has been woven for the reader.”
—Fresh Fiction
“Emotion-packed … a heartrending, very sensual historical romance that will touch your heart.”
—Romance Junkies
About the Author
Deciding that life had far more to offer than a nine-to-five job, bickering children in the evening, and housework of any kind, TIFFANY CLARE opened up her laptop to rediscover her love of the written word. Tiffany writes historical romances set in the Victorian era. She lives in Toronto with her ever-patient photographer husband, two mischievous children, and one hyperactive cat. Tiffany loves to hear from readers. You can contact her through her website at www.tiffanyclare.com.
This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, organizations, and events portrayed in this novel are either products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.
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