Set in Stone: A Contemporary Adventure Romance Novel (Legend Book 1)

by Kylie Stewart

  I tried to force a smile.

  “Of course, she did; she used to do these gala things weekly with my granddad.” I got out and grabbed my bags, along with a few of Elaine’s. Lord knew the woman didn’t have enough hands for her shopping bags. How she managed to get them all in one car, I’d never know.

  “Still, I’m so excited for you! Perhaps this means he’s interested in courting you? Alexandria, the Duchess of Avalon!” The giggling ensued as Elaine unlocked the flat’s door, swinging it open.

  Today was Wednesday, which meant my date with Avalon was tomorrow.

  This is not a date. You are simply doing him a favor.

  I followed Elaine to her room and dropped off her bags, sighing. I took mine to the safety of my own room and sank into familiar sheets. After hanging up my latest purchase, I flopped onto my bed. I rolled around for a while and was sad to find that I preferred the bed at Caliburn. I hopped up and went to the kitchen to scavenge for something to eat. I wasn’t going to allow myself to miss that place or anyone in it.

  Thursday began with a morning call from Avalon. He rang to have my bags ready midday. One of his men would be over, so I wouldn’t have to carry my luggage down in my gown. I thanked him and kept the conversation short. My anxiety level was high enough without hearing his voice.

  Elaine had more energy than I did. At about 1:00 p.m., she forced me into the shower and set up shop at my vanity. By three o’clock, my hair was swept in a graceful updo. She left me to slip into the gown and apply my makeup.

  The dress I had selected was a sapphire blue. It was floor length and showed my slender figure up top while easing out in the skirts for dancing purposes. The sleeves were simple cap sleeves, and the plunge showed enough without being inappropriate. The rear of the dress also plunged to mid back. I slipped the matching cobalt shoes onto my pantyhose covered feet. I added gel insoles since I hadn’t had the time to break them in.

  I applied light pinks and sheer gray over my eyelids. The black liner made my blue eyes glow against the dark, smoky illusion. For lipstick, I chose a deep cider color—not killer red but a warm tone that set well against my creamy complexion. I donned my grandmother’s sapphire jewels, which had inspired me to buy the gown. Somewhat reluctantly, I also clasped the diamond bracelet Avalon had gifted me around my left wrist. Gathering my clutch that housed makeup, my ID, credit card, cell phone, and Pridwen, I stood.

  My long black dress jacket was classy enough to don. Taking one last look in the mirror, I squirted a light mist of perfume on my wrists and dabbed behind my ears. I exited my room to see M standing next to Elaine. Her face was beaming with pride.

  “Oh, Allie! You look like a princess!” Elaine gushed.

  I blushed and nodded at M. “Hello, M, are we ready?” I swallowed my fear and played the part of the elite. I had watched my grandmother and mother do it all the time.

  “We are, my lady.” With a graceful nod, he held out his hand.

  I took it carefully, looking over my shoulder. I felt as if I was being sent off to a faraway place, never to return.

  “Have fun! Tell me everything tomorrow!” Elaine closed the door behind us. The deadbolt slid into place, causing an icy feeling to settle in my gut.

  “Do not fear, Ms. York. The Duke of Avalon is awaiting you at the gala. He had to be there early to greet Their Royal Highnesses. We shall get you there in one piece.” M patted my hand. “Do not fret; you look the picture of beauty and elegance.”

  “Thank you, M. Do you really think I can do this? I’m just an artist.” I settled into the backseat of the sleek Aston Martin.

  The usually collected man gave me a warm, fatherly smile.

  “You were born for this, Ms. York. You are a York, aren’t you?”

  He left me feeling a little better. Still, the bundle of nerves was intense. Thank God, I hadn’t eaten much today. Speaking of God . . . I looked at my clasped hands in my lap. I squeezed my eyes shut to pray for the first time in a very long time.

  Please give me the words to speak and the wisdom to remain silent. Please let me make Avalon proud.

  Wait—why would I want him to be proud of me? With a shake of my head, I continued.

  And let my feet not falter on the dance floor. Amen.

  The drive was far too short for my liking. When we pulled up, I saw a red carpet and photographers everywhere.

  Oh, God.

  M turned to me. “Ms. York. Discard your jacket in here. You are about to be photographed.”

  “Me? But I’m not famous!” The panic surged again as I floundered to get out of my large coat.

  “You are semi-famous. An up-and-coming artist and the guest of the Dragon.” M winked. “No woman has ever been graced with this honor, Ms. York.”

  I groaned.

  Carefully keeping my legs together, so no paparazzi could take a snap of my nude thong, I prepared myself. I took a few deep breaths as M rounded the car. I demurely stepped onto the sidewalk, pasting a smile on my face. The flashbulbs blinded me over and over again, but I continued to smile and walk with M into the safety of the building. I even waved a few times.

  “Very well done, Ms. York. Have you done this before?” he joked, offering his arm more formally.

  “No, I was just doing what I’ve seen the Royals do for years.” My heart was racing so fast that I leaned against M for support.

  “Well, it has paid off. Come . . .” He gave me a reassuring pat on the back. “Let us go find your duke.”

  The location looked like a grand hotel, which reminded me I had never asked Avalon where we were going. We came to the top of a great staircase, and I looked down into a sea of people I had only ever dreamed of meeting. Eyes wide, I couldn’t believe what I was doing. I was looking for Avalon because I actually wanted to see him. I wanted him close, so he could instruct me.

  I found him talking to a man wearing a top hat. Avalon looked so handsome. I swallowed and couldn’t help but stare. He wore a black suit that fit his muscular frame. His shoes were so shiny; I could see them from where I was. Medallions decorated his chest, and he was sipping what I only could imagine was whiskey from a rocks glass. His jet-black hair was slicked back. I hated to say it, but I preferred its shaggy length when it fell into those mysterious eyes.

  I was so transfixed on Avalon that when I noticed the looks cast my way, by both men and women, my cheeks heated. He finally looked up, doing a double take. He ceased conversation with the man, who then looked up at me, eyebrows raising in appreciation. I couldn’t stop the small smile from crossing my lips. I lifted my chin higher and allowed M to lead me down the staircase without tripping. Everything was like a dream, and I floated down to Avalon.

  “Thank you, M. I believe I can take it from here.”

  The duke nodded at his head of house, and I smiled at the man.

  “Yes, thank you, M.”

  “Anything for you, Ms. York. Have fun,” he whispered just to me.

  With a giggle, I turned back to find Avalon’s piercing eyes searing me. We stood there for just a moment, taking each other in. Finally, he did something I didn’t think he’d do. He bowed to me.

  “My lady.”

  When he came back up, approval shone in his eyes.

  “Your Grace.” I curtseyed low, gracefully.

  My heart skipped when his fingers hooked under my chin, bringing me back up to meet him.

  “You look like royalty, Ms. York. I love your choice of dress. I am also pleased you are wearing the bracelet I gave you,” he whispered low into my ear. His hands grazed down my arms and teased the tips of his fingers against mine. “Do not fear. I won’t let you falter.”

  I let out a breath I didn’t know I had been holding. “I know; I’m trying,” I murmured back. He was so close when I looked up into his eyes.

  “Come, allow me to introduce you.”

  With a flourish, he broke the intimate moment and offered his arm. I took it without hesitation.

  We made round after
round. My head was spinning with all of the names and titles I had learned. I was sipping champagne and listening to a conversation about foxhunting with a few lords and their wives.

  “Do you ride, Ms. York?” The heavier set man with a graying mustache turned to me.

  “Yes, I do. I love it very much.” I smiled warmly at him.

  “That is how we met actually.” Avalon wrapped an arm affectionately around my waist. “She rode onto my property by mistake, and I was at her art show for the CAC only a few days later. Strange how fate works.”

  Laughter broke out from our small group. I stole a glimpse at Avalon’s smiling face. His touch was warm, inviting. He was very good at explaining people and what they did and how to address them before we got to them. Every time he made an introduction, he seemed to glow with pride. Was he truly thinking of courting? My face flushed hot at the thought.

  “You two make a handsome couple. Ms. York, you are absolutely ravishing. Avalon, you must find a way to keep her.” A woman winked at me while she squeezed her husband’s arm.

  Before I could correct her, Avalon spoke.

  “Thank you, Gloria. I plan to do anything to keep this gem.”

  Sudden heat rose through my body. Oh, hell no! I was not his! He was parading me around like a possession. He was rating me on the approval of his world. I let the quiet realization burn through me before I couldn’t take it anymore.

  I laughed along with Avalon and smiled politely through my exit. “Please excuse me. I must find the washroom.”

  I wanted to cry.

  I wanted to scream.

  I was like the princess at the ball, only I had been forced to go.

  I found the washroom without much trouble and just stared at my reflection. I hardly recognized myself. I was honestly stunning—I could admit that. But it was all a façade. Avalon wanted to make me something I wasn’t.

  I plan to do anything to keep this gem?

  What was he planning?

  “Oh, why, hello, Ms. York! You look ravishing, lovely.”

  That loud voice cut through my thoughts. I jumped to see Ms. Le Fey staring at me in the mirror.

  “Ms. Le Fay, forgive me, you startled me.” I placed my hand on my chest.

  “Oh, no, no, forgive me. Are you all right?” Her face went from smiles to concern.

  Why did Avalon hate this woman again?

  “I am. My brain just needed a breather from all the names.” I forced a laugh. Ms. LeFay’s eyes narrowed and I could tell she wasn’t buying it.

  “You don’t want to be here, do you, darling?” With a sigh, she washed her hands. Her deep purple gown fit her full figure. She was a gorgeous woman. Something in her face rang of familiarity, though, especially when she frowned.

  I shook my head. “Oh, no, it’s not that at all.”

  “It is. Let me guess. Avalon is parading you around like a trophy? Measuring you up to see if you are ‘Dutch’ status?” She made air quotes at the word Dutch.

  “Yes, it seems that way. He doesn’t correct people when they assume we are together. What if the tabloids get a hold of that!” The sudden horror hit me. “Oh, dear God.” My hand went to my forehead.

  “Sweetie, they already have. Tomorrow, you exiting the Duke of Avalon’s car, shaking hands with the Royals, and dancing with him—you’ll be the next big thing.”

  Panic set in. “Oh, no, I can’t live like that!”

  “You don’t have to.” She took my hands, seriousness in her face. “I will tell you one thing. I’ve known Avalon a long time. He only brings women in to feed off them like a wolf on the hunt.” Ms. Le Fey placed her hands on my arms. “As soon as he becomes bored, which isn’t long, he tosses them out, but not before making them feel worth something. He doesn’t just take what he wants.” She spun me to look in the mirror. “He possesses. You are a gorgeous, gifted artist. Do not let him steal your light to feed his darkness. He’ll ruin you.”

  I turned to look at her. “How do you know him so well?”

  Sadness flickered in her black eyes as she gave a sorrowful smile. “He’s my little brother.”

  “You’re a lady?” My eyes widened.

  “No. I’m his half-sister, so I have no titles. He’s shunned me for a very long time. We used to be close friends, but time changes people.” A faraway look glazed over her face. “I wish he could see time heals people, as well.”

  “I’m so sorry—Ms. Le Fey.” That’s why she looked so familiar.

  Her smile was kind. “Morgan. Please, call me Morgan.”

  “All right, Morgan.” I offered the woman a smile.

  “You’ve loved before and been hurt, haven’t you?”

  Morgan’s question took me aback.

  “Ah, yes, I have.” Looking down, I sighed.

  “Don’t let him use that as a weakness. I’m sure someone can still rescue you from the Dragon.” She warned.

  With that, she was gone before I could ask her what she meant. I didn’t know if I was more confused or felt better. Taking in a deep breath, I straightened and went to find Avalon. He had some explaining to do.

  I found him standing by himself, thumbing through his phone. I didn’t say anything; I just glared at him.

  “Ms. York, there you are. I was getting worried.” There was that fake smile.

  I took the glass from his hand and pulled him close. Two could play this game.

  “Dance with me.”

  “There is no need to be hasty.” Gray eyes gave a warning. “Can you dance?”

  “I’ll make you a bet.” I grew daring and slipped my hand in his. “If I can dance, and dance to your standards, you must answer me any question I ask of you.”

  That perked his ears. A sly grin crossed his lips, showing glinting teeth. “And if you fail?”

  I leaned forward to whisper into his ear. “You can do whatever you wish to me when we get back to your estate.”

  When I pulled back, his eyes were wide, jaw clenching as if he were trying to keep his hands off me now. He gave himself away. It scared and thrilled me. So he did want me.

  Good.

  I’d found my ace.

  I was the ace.

  “Well then, Ms. York, we shall not waste a moment.”

  He eagerly accompanied me to the dance floor. The joke would be on him this time. I was a finished dancer, thanks to years of lessons. A slow waltz began our mutual competition. Hating to admit it, I realized Avalon was just as good. He led with confidence, and his feet were light on the marble floor.

  “You dance beautifully.” He spun me once as the music changed to a more upbeat tempo.

  “I’ve been trained.” He snapped me back into his arms, our bodies brushing.

  “So I can see.” He flashed that dangerous smirk. “You baffle me, Ms. York.”

  “I must agree with you, Your Grace. For you confuse me, as well.” My tone was bitter.

  His brows furrowed, his lips hiding a hint of a smile. “Whatever do you mean?”

  “Have I proven myself worthy? Do you deem me fit to parade around? Do you enjoy taking ownership of people? Or is it just women?” I paused on the dance floor, staring daggers at him.

  “Alexandria, I don’t know what you are talking about.” Avalon’s face was genuinely confused.

  “Call me Ms. York. Alexandria seems too personal now.”

  The music ended.

  I gathered my skirts and walked away from him, hoping to get some space. I exited the ballroom and hurried along the hallways that twisted and turned throughout the hotel. I finally came upon a small seating area and paced between two leather chairs. I heard the click of his heels following me. I turned to face him, rolling my eyes.

  “I wish to go home, or if not home, at least back to Caliburn so I can finish working for you.”

  Avalon studied me in the dimly lit hall. His face was dark, and his eyes were a confusing mix of hurt and disappointment. He let out a heavy sigh, rubbing his temples.

  “What?” I p
laced my hands on my hips. “Have I struck the truth?”

  Avalon’s voice rang sharp in warning. “Ms. York—please don’t push me. Not tonight.”

  “So I have?” I let out an exasperated laugh. “You baited me to work for you just so you could have me? I’m a commoner. You are a duke. We are not the same.” I held out my hand to keep him at a distance. “I don’t want anything to do with you other than our contractual agreement. I appreciate your kindness, but this has gone too far.”

  “I said do not push me!”

  I found myself pinned against the wall beneath his iron grip. Fear slid down my spine as I watched the hurricane form in his eyes.

  “Why did you bring me here?” My voice was hushed.

  “I wanted to.” He didn’t let go.

  I winced as one of his warm hands caressed my face.

  “I wanted to invite you. Not because of what you think I want, but because I rather enjoy your company.”

  His fingers burned me where he touched. I tried to pull my head away, but that just bade his fingers to trail down my neck. Heat pooled in my hips at his touch. I hated what he did to me. He turned my body against me.

  “Why didn’t you correct people when they assumed we were together? We’re not together.” I couldn’t look at him. I feared those eyes would draw me under the surface, and I’d drown. I was playing with a dragon. I was what he desired. How could I use myself against him?

  “I don’t know.” His voice was honest. “I’m sorry if that offended you.”

  “No, you aren’t.” I faced him again. “I’m not yours to do with what you please. I work for you. That’s all.”

  Avalon took a few moments to respond. He seemed to be having trouble gathering his thoughts. He licked his lips, drawing my eyes to them. I wondered what it would be like to kiss him.

  What would he taste like?

  Would he be any good?

  “Please, Ms. York, eyes up here. If you keep staring at me like that, what you are thinking will happen.” Avalon’s tone was surprisingly uneven.

  Glancing back up at him, I stepped closer. Placing hands on his shoulders, I tried on seduction for once.