Borderland Beauty

by Samantha Holt

  Slapping a hand on Montgomery’s back, Dominic gave him a grin. “Come then, shall we meet this fine daughter of yours?”

  Chapter Two

  The women approached on horseback, escorted by a handful of guards. The mound the keep sat on was too steep for carriages and Dominic preferred it that way. He could not stomach the pretensions of noble folk.

  Both riders wore thick, dark mantles to protect them from the cold, so he could not tell which was his betrothed, but one was certainly shorter, so he suspected it was her. Just a lock of fair hair escaped the hood, but he could not make out her features.

  The guards parted as they came through the gatehouse and the taller rider led the way, partially hiding the other woman. His feet twitched and he fought the urge to peer around her. Christ, it was like waiting for an execution. If he could only see the damn lass that he would likely have to marry.

  Montgomery stepped forward to help what Dominic was now sure was his wife and he hurried forward to assist his future bride down. A slender, pale hand thrust out and he took it unthinkingly. His heart rebounded unexpectedly against his ribcage as she curled her fingers around his hand and he stared at their linked hands for a moment. Somewhere behind him, Montgomery coughed and Dominic shook his head, reaching up to take her other hand.

  The bundle of black wool slid from her saddle and he gawped as a flash of creamy skin slipped past him, barely concealed by the heavy broach on her mantle. Snapping his eyes up, he stepped back with a bow.

  “My lady.”

  She pushed down her hood and greeted him with a cool smile. “My lord.”

  His mouth dried as he took her in. She appeared younger than her years, with smooth skin and elegant cheekbones. Dark lashes surrounded her hazel eyes, but it was her lips that drew him in. Hell’s teeth, such sensual lips in such an innocent face were entirely unexpected. Wide and pale, her bottom lip was fuller than the top, giving the appearance of having just been thoroughly kissed.

  As if aware of where his thoughts were running, the tip of her tongue darted out and licked at her bottom lip before she pulled it between her teeth. His blood heated as a craving like no other curled through him.

  Montgomery hastened up to them, a scowl etched on his brow. It was not surprising. Dominic had just ignored every propriety and was now eyeing his daughter as if he wanted to take her in the middle of the courtyard. Which, actually, wasn’t far from what he was imagining…

  Blinking, he pulled his gaze from her, long enough to register the presence of Lady Eleanor Montgomery, a slender woman with dark hair, partially hidden behind a veil. She was quite the contrast to her heavy-set, pale husband. She gave him a regal curtsey and Dominic returned it with a bow.

  “Greetings, my lady, welcome to Thornewall. We have gone too long without the pleasure of your company.”

  She granted him a wide smile. “Thank you, my lord. We are all looking forward to sharing in the Christmas festivities here at Thornewall.”

  Dominic considered her, and the mild twinkle that sat in her gaze that hinted at a more playful temperament than her regal bearing implied. “As am I, my lady.”

  Eleanor wrapped her arms around her daughter’s shoulders and urged her forward. “And my daughter is most happy to be here. Are you not, my love?”

  The lass’s jaw clenched in a barely concealed effort to hide her annoyance at her mother’s attentions. “Indeed, most happy.”

  Dominic’s lips twitched at her dry tone along with his loins. Her voice was husky and it rolled over him like warm mead. God’s blood, everything about the lass was designed to entice a man. Montgomery had said she did not enjoy festivities, and it was clear she was not happy at being coaxed along, but he would soon change that. Aye, before long Lucy Montgomery would be glad indeed that she came to Thornewall. He would make sure of it.

  ~* * *~

  Her heart hammered as Dominic grinned at her before holding out his arm. “Shall we, my lady?”

  Gulping, Lucy nodded as she curled her fingers carefully over the top of his hand. A prickling heat shot through her, but by some miracle she managed to control her reaction. Exactly the same thing happened when he helped her down from her mount and she was sure he noticed how it startled her. Surely that would account for the odd look on his face as he had studied her.

  Flicking a sideways peek at him, she forced herself to take long, slow breaths. Sweet Mary, he had grown handsome these eight summers. He kept his thick, chestnut hair drawn back from his face, but some of it still hung down past his collar, brushing his shoulders. It drew attention to the strong cut of his smooth jawline and near perfect profile. His lips remained curved into a slight smile, as if amused by everything, and his blue eyes reflected that same merriment.

  Lucy stiffened at the thought. Did he find her amusing? She had been on the end of enough teasing once before, she did not relish the thought being the recipient of his jesting…again.

  Her shoes brushed through the soft layer of snow and she could hear her mother and father following behind as Dominic led them across the courtyard, but it was the sound of Dominic’s clothes swishing and his boots crunching that dominated her senses. That, and the feel of his work-roughened hand underneath hers.

  A look from him told her that he noticed her observation and he gave her a flash of a smile. Lucy snapped her head away and concentrated on taking in her surroundings. She would be damned if she would add to his arrogance.

  The great walls of Thornewall rose up about them, cocooning the large courtyard. She had spent time here as a young girl once but she did not remember it seeming so intimidating before. Everything about Thornewall Keep spoke of the wealth and power of its owner, from the huge towers to the expansive hall that sat in front of them with its huge carved doors and wide upper windows.

  She jumped as Dominic spoke suddenly, breaking through her observations. “I meant what I said, my lady, I am glad to have you joining us for the celebrations at Thornewall.”

  Lucy kept her gaze fixed ahead. “Thank you, my lord.”

  “Pray call me Dominic.”

  “I would rather not, my lord.”

  Lifting her skirts, she allowed him to lead her up the stairs to the hall door. She stumbled a little on the steps and Dominic snatched at her arm, keeping her upright. She fought the urge to curse aloud and kept her gaze on the great doors of the hall, hoping he couldn’t see her embarrassment. He paused and faced her as a watchman pushed open the door.

  “May I call you Lucy?”

  She flicked her eyes up and down him dismissively but it had little effect. The teasing smile remained. “If you must.”

  “I must, Lucy.”

  She shuddered as he murmured her name. Coming from his lips, it sounded so…so sinful. Lord knows, the man was the very definition of sin itself. A devilishly handsome face with a body to match and a reputation that was downright wicked.

  Her mother and father came up behind them and Lucy didn’t miss the look of worry that passed over her father’s face. No doubt he knew well enough of Lord Dominic’s reputation and he feared for his daughter’s virtue.

  Well, he had no need to fear. She had no intention of becoming another of Lord Dominic’s conquests. No intention at all.

  The four of them stepped into the hall and she resisted the urge to breathe a sigh of relief as his hand left hers.

  “Welcome to Thornewall.” He motioned to two serving girls, who scurried over to take their mantles. “I will have you shown to your chambers shortly but pray will you not rest a moment and…”

  He trailed off and Lucy threw him a puzzled look as she handed her cloak to the young servant. Her heart hammered as Dominic stared at her, his blue eyes trailing up and down her as his mouth dropped open. Disconcerted, she glanced down at her gown but could see nothing amiss. Indeed, it was one of her best gowns with fine pale pink embroidery to match the dusky pink of the silk.

  Her cheeks warmed as he continued to stare and she darted a look at her fa
ther to see that he was more interested in the food and wine that occupied the main table. A glance at her mother told her that she was too busy taking in the grandeur of the hall to notice Dominic’s strange behaviour.

  Drawing back her shoulders, she waited for Dominic’s eyes to meet hers. His gaze latched onto hers, making her throat constrict and a glimmer of uncertainty flashed in his expression before his air of assurance settled comfortably back into place.

  Lucy drew in a deep breath, aware that her cheeks were still flaming. By God, she was a fool. She was a grown woman, not some young, simpering maiden, so why was she reacting this way to him? She had met handsome men - ones with less arrogance too - but they had never prompted her toes to curl simply by looking at her.

  Not that they ever did look at her.

  Turning her head abruptly away, she made a great show of taking in her surroundings. Aye, it was a grand hall with beautiful tapestries, an imposing fireplace and great iron chandeliers laden with candles, but while she observed it she was aware that it was Dominic who still held her attention.

  She watched him out of the corner of her eye as he stepped quickly forward to usher her mother and father towards the banquet table. Easing herself away from them, she strolled around the hall, running her hands across the dark carved coffers that lined the walls. Books were scattered over one and she fingered them, noting the titles. Where they Dominic’s? She had not considered him the sort of man that would sit and read. He struck her as the active type. Active in the bedroom at least, she thought wryly.

  A laugh from her mother drew her attention and she observed as Lord Dominic worked his charm on her mother. His eyes flicked to her and his lips twisted as she glared back. Ack, he was used to women falling at his feet, mayhap he had expected her to, as well.

  Lucy laughed inwardly. Mayhap he did make her toes curl, but she was made of stronger stuff than that. It would take more than a few smiles to charm her. She would not be falling at Lord Dominic of Thornewall’s feet anytime soon, she was sure of that.

  Once they had replenished themselves with ale, Dominic beckoned to a maid. A plump older woman who had been fussing over some greenery that was being strung up in the hall, bustled over. Her flushed cheeks were squeezed into a plain white wimple and a woollen gown was pulled tight over a bosom that rivalled Lucy’s own.

  “Winnie, pray see the lady to the women’s quarters. I will escort Lord and Lady Montgomery to their chambers.”

  Lucy tamped down the flitter of disappointment that resided in her chest. Her eyes met Dominic’s briefly and her stomach twisted as she recognised the reluctance in his expression. Surely it was not possible he felt any kind of regret at being parted from her? She quickly cast her gaze away and offered the maid a timid smile as she gestured through the door.

  “This way, milady.”

  A large man hastened up the outer stairs and blocked their way. Lucy’s eyes widened as she took him in. He towered over everyone with wide shoulders and thick arms. She took a step back as he dipped his head in greeting.

  Dominic came to her side and motioned to the tall man. “This is my brother, Jake. Jake, this is Lucy Montgomery.”

  Lucy gave a tiny nod. So this was Dominic’s half-brother. She had heard much of Lord Jacob recently. His appearance has always been cause of gossip amongst the servants of Tyneridge and she could see why. Though his hair was of similar colour to Dominic’s, his features were more rugged and his eyes a warm brown. She knew they had different fathers, but the differences between them still surprised her. Not to mention, the man was as huge as rumours had made him out to be.

  “A pleasure, my lady,” Jake greeted her gruffly. Though his brow remained stern, there was a warmth to his voice and her shoulders relaxed as she offered him a smile.

  “And you, Lord Jacob.”

  “Pray call me Jake.”

  Lucy’s lips twitched as she darted a glance at Dominic. Dare she take such a liberty when she had already denied Dominic as much? A look at his confident expression sealed her decision.

  “Jake,” she said amiably. Dominic’s eyes narrowed but he gave her a smirk and a faint shake of his head. Ack, she had not succeeded in riling him. Instead he seemed amused. “I hear I am to give my congratulations on your betrothal,” she continued.

  Jake’s face split into a grin and the change it made struck her. Though he was not as handsome as Dominic, he was a fine looking man.

  “I thank you, my lady.”

  “Lucy,” she corrected. “Will your wife not be joining us?”

  “Alas, nay. She is with child and I wished not for her to make the journey. I will return on the morrow to spend Christmas with Isabel.”

  She watched Dominic carefully. Though servants gossiped about Jake’s appearance, his marriage caused a greater stir. His wife, Lady Isabel, had been betrothed to marry Dominic but before the banns had been announced, she had ended up marrying Jake instead. Lucy frowned as Dominic showed no reaction.

  Dominic motioned to his brother. “Come, Jake. Lord and Lady Montgomery will be eager to see you.”

  “Aye, as you will. I will see you this night, Lucy. Good day to you.” He bowed his head and headed over to greet her parents.

  Dominic lingered behind, securing her with his eyes. “As will I. I look forward to it, Lucy.” He lowered his voice. “Very much.”

  Lucy stiffened as her chest tightened at the tone of his voice. “Good day, my lord,” she said coldly as she dipped to him.

  Keeping her gaze fixed on Winnie’s back, she followed her out, ignoring the dip of Dominic’s head towards her as she left. A shiver danced over her spine and she was convinced he watched her leave.

  Sucking in the cold air as they stepped out into the courtyard, Lucy stared up at the four towers in front of her. Knowing the effect that Thornewall’s lord had on her made the keep even more intimidating.

  Winnie motioned with her hand. “Follow me, milady.”

  They entered the dark confines of the stairwell and Winnie’s huffing echoed against the cold stone as they ascended the spiral stairs. The corridor brightened as they reached the top and Lucy followed the maid in silence as she pushed open an oak door.

  The guest chambers stretched across one side of the castle and were surprisingly bright and airy. The green tinged glass gave the room a luminescent glow and the heavy blue curtains added to this effect. The cloud of trepidation that lingered on her chest eased as she stepped in and ran a finger across a sea green tapestry that occupied the entire back wall.

  Lucy noted that two beds occupied the chamber, both adorned with the same blue of the curtains. “Will I be sharing with another lady?” she asked Winnie.

  “Nay, milady. The younger lassies are sharing with their parents and Lord and Lady Beaumont’s daughters are visiting with their aunt. The Earl and his wife have just had a son so they did not wish to travel, though I hear tell their daughter is heartbroken. ‘Tis said she had hoped to garner the affections of our lord.” Winnie gave her an impish smile.

  Snorting, Lucy dropped onto the bed and gave a little bounce, testing it. “Aye, well if she is pretty, she would likely have garnered his affections easily. Whether she could have kept them is another thing.”

  “Milady, ye should not speak so. Ye sound like a bitter old maid. And ye should not listen to gossip. My lord is a good man, if a little virile.”

  Lucy’s eyebrows darted up a she studied the plump old woman and she smothered a giggle at her words. She appeared honest and forthright, but Lucy liked that. She gave a small nod and grinned. “Winnie, I am an old maid. Do not let my smooth skin deceive you, I am one and twenty.”

  “Ack, my sister was five and twenty when she married. Ye have plenty more years left to find yerself a husband. Mayhap ye’ll find yerself one here. The other guests will be travelling in shortly and no doubt there will be plenty of fine men joining in the festivities.” Winnie bustled forward and perched on the bed next to her. “Shall I tidy yer hair, milady?�
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  “Aye, as you will.” Lucy twisted to give Winnie access to her hair. “I do not wish for a husband really, Winnie,” she admitted.

  “Why ever not?” Winnie loosened her hair and thread her fingers through it.

  “I should not like to settle for a man that merely tolerates me and I hold no hope of finding love. Men are but fickle creatures.”

  “Not all men, milady.”

  “I’ve yet to meet one that could persuade me in matrimony.”

  “Ye’ve just not met the right one yet. Ye’d be surprised what ye’d be willing to do for the right man.” With a tug, Winnie pulled her ribbon tight and stood to admire her work. “There ye go, milady. Yer stuff will be brought up shortly.”

  “My thanks.”

  “Ack, ye are a beauty, milady. I’d wager you’ll catch someone’s eye this night.”

  Lucy shook her head with a wry smile. “Winnie, I should like that we become friends. I fear I have need of an ally, especially one as capable of flattery as you.”

  “‘Tis not flattery, milady, just the truth, but I should be happy to attend to ye, if it pleases.”

  “Aye, Winnie, I should like that very much.”

  She had begun to think she would need all the friends she could get now she was under Lord Dominic’s roof. A shiver wracked her as she remembered the lord’s gaze fixed on her. Thank goodness she didn’t like him or she would be truly lost.

  Chapter Three

  Stepping into the Great Hall, Lucy glanced around, drawing in a sharp breath as her gaze immediately settled on Lord Dominic. His piercing eyes snapped straight to her as he talked with his brother, tracing over her gown before come to rest on her face, a slight smile playing on his lips.

  Fingering her skirt, she turned away and cast her gaze over the room. Greenery had been strung up from the rafters and twisted around the minstrel's gallery and large clusters of holly sat on top of the huge fireplace and the long tables, standing out against the crisp white linen. No expense spared here, then. Holly was hard to come by in the local woods, so Dominic had likely sent out for it.