by Vanessa Lee
Erica tried to imagine happy outcomes, but her attempts to put a positive light on the situation hadn't worked. She breathed deeply, trying to calm herself as she reminded herself that it was probably just her nerves talking. She believed the Countess when she said that Nick would make her a good husband. Today, she was clinging to that hope.
Abbie had come over earlier that morning, as promised. “I cannot believe that yesterday we were trying to find you a suitable husband, and today, you are getting married!” she exclaimed.
Erica could sympathize with her. She could not believe that the events leading up to her wedding day had transpired the way that they had. “Oh Abbie, I swear, I was not doing anything indecent or inappropriate-”
“You don't have to proclaim your innocence to me!” Abbie interrupted. “I know that it was him.
What happened?”
Erica sighed. She had replayed the scene over and over in her head last night. For some reason, Nick had ruined her so that he could marry her. There were woman far more wealthy than she was.
Why had he chosen her? The answers still eluded her.
“I was on the balcony when Nick joined me. The Countess came out onto the balcony and she saw that Nick had placed his hand around my waist.”
Eyes widening, Abbie asked, “Why on earth did you let him do that?”
Erica thought back to how she had been completely mesmerized by the man. He had made her feel things. He had made her want him. “I hadn't realized that he'd done so.”
Seeing the heat flush into Erica's face, Abbie said, “Oh! So you do have less than honorable intentions towards the Duke.”
Her eyes flew up to Abbie's, which were twinkling mischievously. “Abbie, I did nothing wrong!”
Abbie laughed, delighted that Erica at least felt something for her husband-to-be. “Erica, I believe you. I also think that you are quite lucky to be married to such a handsome man.”
The blush stain on Erica's cheeks in response told Abbie everything she needed to know. She relaxed, comforted by the knowledge that Erica at least wanted to be married to the man.
“Abbie! How can you talk like that when you are a newly married woman? What would your husband say?”
“He wouldn't say anything at all, since he isn't here!
Erica laughed, appreciating her friend's good humor. Her cheerfulness was doing a lot to help keep her nerves from overwhelming her. There was no turning back now. She would be married to Nick within hours. Then would come her wedding night. She gulped, not willing to think about that, just yet.
“I do hope that I'm not making a mistake.”
Abbie patted her friend's hand. “Last night Randall and I discussed this situation at length. We were very worried when we heard about your engagement, naturally.” She paused, looking thoughtful. “Randall and Nick have been enemies for a long time. But Randall says that Nick is known to be honorable and fair. He is not completely destitute, so he will be able to provide for you very well, while he and your father are growing their business.”
Erica considered this bit of information. “I was so hoping to marry a man who was well off to help our family business. Learning beforehand about the Duke's misfortune certainly gained my sympathy, however I had ruled him out as a potential husband.”
“Oh Erica, you mustn't let Randall's comments about the Duke from last night-”
“I know, Abbie. I've had a chance, albeit a brief one, to evaluate Nick for myself. I like his strength and his determination. He has the ability to take command over a situation and he is also direct and to the point. I think that he would be a great partner for my father. Someone who has good ideas, but can take charge and move things forward.”
“But what about emotions?”
Erica's head snapped up. “What about them?”
“Do you think he could ever come to care for you?”
Erica recalled the way that he had held her, kissed her, and looked deeply into her eyes, as though he was seeing her soul. “It's much too soon to tell, but I am hopeful.”
Abbie smiled at that, and said, “And on that note, I am so happy to witness your wedding day and watch you become a bride, just as you did for me.”
Erica smiled at her friend's enthusiasm. “Yes. I won't have the flowers or finery that you did, but
I'm sure it will still be a lovely affair.”
“Oh Erica, do you truly not mind that you won't have a large wedding with all of the trappings?”
No, she didn't mind at all. She was genuinely happy to save her father the expense. While she didn't like that her reputation had needed saving, she was grateful that her reputation, and that of her father's business, had been saved. “I do not mind,” she answered her friend. Sitting up straight, she contemplated, “I will be a Duchess. I never expected to have such a title, but when I marry the Duke Eastham, I will inherit the name.”
Smiling at her friend's good fortune, Abbie said, “That is something to look forward to!” Hugging her, she joyfully teased, “That is the benefit of marrying a handsome Duke!”
Indeed it is, Erica thought now, as she waited for her friend to return. Abbie had gone downstairs to see if the special hairpiece that their servant, Bess, was making for her wedding. It was after ten o’clock and she needed to start getting dressed for her wedding to Nick.
The bustle of activity in preparation for her wedding hadn't ceased all morning. She could hear her father continuing to order servants about, getting the house re-arranged for the ceremony.
Erica looked at the large trunks, which had been packed with her things by the maids earlier this morning. Tonight, they would be moved into her new husband's home. She wondered what the Duke's home looked like. Maybe he would let her decorate it if it wasn't to her taste. Would she have her own room? Would she be sharing his?
She felt her face flush. Sharing the Nick's bed was still an alarming concept for her. He would probably want to consummate their marriage, because that's what married couples do. But would he want to share her bed every night? Erica could imagine how wonderful it would be to fall asleep being held in his strong arms. How nice it would be to receive more of his sweet, warm kisses.
Abbie came back into the room, carrying the headpiece she would be wearing for her wedding. It was a beautiful hair clip strung with pearls and white lace.
Seeing the bemused look on Erica's face, she asked, “What are you thinking about?”
Blushing even further, Erica replied, “Just of the wedding.” Wanting Abbie's opinion, she asked “I wonder what the Duke's estate will look like?”
Abbie set down the comb and picked up her dress, preparing to help Erica into it. “It must be immaculate. Long ago, the Wellingtons were massively wealthy and spared no expense when it came to their housing.” She placed the dress over Erica's head, helping her into it. “In fact, you will now be the mistress of a few properties. I guess Nicholas couldn't bear to part with them, even when things started getting rough.”
Having helped her into the dress, Abbie went behind her to button up the dress. She cleared her throat. “Have you given any thought to your wedding night?”
Erica felt her face lit. “Oh. Um, yes. Well, that is...”
Abbie laughed, very amused by the look on her friend's face. “I know that I told you a little of what happened on my wedding night, and how Randall likes to-”
“Yes, yes! You told me!” Erica finished in a rush, not comfortable talking about her friend's intimate relationship with her husband. But she was extremely curious about what to expect tonight, so she said, “On your wedding night, you said that Randall took charge of things. But did he... was he...”
Abbie knew what her friend was asking. “Yes, he was gentle with me. A gentleman of good
character will be extremely careful with you. I think we can expect the same from the Duke. It is quite enjoyable, Erica. There is one brief moment, as you know, when it will be uncomfortable, but it will quickly pass.”
Her c
heeks aflame, Erica nodded. Having had her question answered, she tried to change the subject. “So, speaking of dear Randall, how is he these days?”
Abbie laughed, clearly enjoying her friend's discomfort. Everything would be alright. The Duke was a good man and would take care of her friend.
Picking up a hairbrush, Abbie started to style Erica's hair. “I know that your maid normally do these things for you, but it is my honor to help you get ready for your wedding.”
Erica squeezed her friend's hand. “I am so thankful that you are here, Abbie. I could not contemplate making it through this day without you.” Her smile dimming a little, she asked, “Do you really think I am doing the right thing by marrying the Duke?”
“Yes, I do. This will be a good marriage for both of you. You will see.”
Linnus cleared his throat and knocked on the door. “We're ready when you are.”
Abbie gave her one last hug and said, “You look beautiful Erica. Don't worry, everything will be fine. Enjoy yourself on this most special day.” She turned and went downstairs.
“You do look absolutely beautiful,” Linnus echoed. His eyes teared up as he looked at his lovely girl. “If only your mother could be here to see this.”
Erica hugged him. Her heart was in her throat and it ached. She was so nervous, but her whole life had led up to this occasion, and it was time to see it through.
Linnus held out his arm to her, and they proceeded to walk to the top of the stairs. She could see where their few guests were seated, waiting for her to come down. They slowly started descending the stairs.
Erica couldn't see the Duke yet. As they got closer to the bottom of the stairs, she began to seriously reconsider. Her father gave her arm a reassuring squeeze. Erica looked over at him and he nodded. This was going to happen.
They continued on their brief walk to the living area, where she would be married. Entering the room, everyone stood upon her arrival at the entryway. Chairs had been set up in sections, which created an isle for her to walk down. A red velvet carpet had been placed down the aisle for her to walk on and someone had placed beautiful flower pedals down the entire length. Her father led her down the aisle, heading toward the front of the room.
When she spotted Nick, she was warmed by the look in his eyes. They were locked on her and they were glowing. She stopped in front of him, watching as his handsome face brightened even more as he smiled down at her. Her breath caught in her throat and her heart started to beat even faster.
Her father kissed her cheek, and turned her over to Nick. Linnus turned and walked back to his seat in the front row of chairs.
Nick's hand covered hers as it lay on his arm, and the heat of it scorched her from the inside out. She was surprised that her hair didn't catch fire. The man was only touching her arm, but he ignited an internal blaze deep within her.
Father David began the brief ceremony. Erica glanced up at Nick. Would he be all that she hoped a husband could be? He looked back down at her, reverently. Yes, she thought. He might actually be all that she had wanted. And so much more.
Looking forward again, she tried to follow what Father David was saying. When it was time for her to agree to the marriage. She looked directly into Nick's eyes, and promised, “I do.”
He also agreed to the marriage with his “I do.” Nick then surprised her when he slid an enormous diamond ring on her finger. Her eyes widened, and he said, “With this ring, I make you a promise that I will do everything in my power to give you the kind of life you deserve. I will always strive to make sure you have everything you need. I am committed to you and to our union.”
Erica's mouth dropped open. What a massive ring! Where did he get it? Her head was swimming.
Nick had made such wonderful promises to her when he had placed it on her finger. She felt the hope that was glimmering inside of her expand a little more.
Father David caught her attention again when he said, “By the power vested in me by His Majesty,
King George III, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Nicholas, you may kiss your bride.”
Nick quickly closed the distance between him and his beautiful bride. He placed one hand on the side of her face to hold her still, and pressed his lips into hers in a kiss that robbed her breath entirely. The cheers from their guests finally broke through to them, and they parted. Each looking at the other like they would very much like to continue where they left off.
Erica turned in time to welcome a celebratory hug from Abbie. Linnus reached Nick first and shook his hand. One by one their guests congratulated them. Abbie and Erica's sisters, Genevieve and Anastasia, mooned over the enormous diamond ring that Nick had placed on her finger during the ceremony. “Where do you think he got it?” Abbie asked.
“He couldn't possibly have had time to go out and buy one,” Genevieve said. “A ring this beautiful would certainly have had to been ordered long in advance.”
Erica was glowing from the wonderful ceremony and from being in Nick's presence. Not to mention the impressive diamond that was sparkling brightly on her finger.
Randall Madison walked over to Nick and held out his hand. “Wellington. Congratulations. You have managed to capture a good one.”
Having successfully made the marriage official, Nick was in the mood to indulge is longtime rival. It's not that he hated the man. Their families had just been in great competition with each other for generations. He shook his hand and accepted his congratulations. “Thank you. I believe we are a good match.”
“Oh, yes. And being a part of Campbell Shipping Industries will be good for your wallet.”
Nick smiled. Yes, it certainly would. Now that Linnus Campbell was his father in-law, the two men would develop an empire that Nick had been trying to talk the man into. They could deal with that tomorrow, however. He had more pressing issues at hand. Including getting his new bride into his carriage.
Erica had been a vision walking down the aisle to marry him today. She was more than he ever could have hoped for in a wife. He couldn't afford to let himself become weak and let his emotions get in the way. Nick knew that he needed to remain focused, so that he could re-build his family fortune. It would be for her benefit, as well. But that didn't mean that he wasn't willing to enjoy the many charms that his new wife possessed.
Today was his wedding day, and he was prepared to enjoy the remainder of it. “Don't you worry,
Madison. You still have a short amount of time before I catch up to you, financially. And pass you.”
Laughing, Randall actually agreed with him. He couldn't believe that someone was taking a risk on the broke Duke. But now that someone had... Maybe the Duke would surprise them, after all. For Erica's sake, he really hoped so.
Just then, they were called to the dining room for the wedding feast. And what a feast it was. Linnus had gone above and beyond in celebration of his eldest daughter's wedding, hoping to make up for a lack of other things her special day was missing.
Nick pulled out a chair for her at the dining table and waited until she was seated before sitting down next to her. Genevieve sat on her other side. During the meal, Erica had the opportunity to appreciate the way her husband was as graceful and elegant, as any gentleman ought to be. She couldn't help but admire him, the way that he handled himself, the deep timber of his voice as he spoke. She especially loved his laugh. It sent her heart to pattering every time.
Her sister Genevieve suddenly caught her attention by leaning in and whispering, “Are you almost ready for your journey to the Duke's home?”
Erica glanced nervously at Nick. “No, not really.” She sighed, it was going to happen soon enough.
Not ready to be alone with her husband yet, she hoped they would make their journey a lot later in the day.
After the meal was done, the gentlemen went to her father's study for a brandy and cigar. The women were served tea and cakes in the sitting room.
Getting more nervous by the minute, Erica tried to pay no attention
to the fact that her trunks were now being loaded onto the carriages that her husband had ordered. It was official. She no longer lived here and she was a married woman. Nick's home, which she had yet to see, was now her home. All of her things would be placed into his bedroom. She would be sleeping in his bedroom tonight. They would be alone, where he would be free to touch her. It was his right as her husband.
Not realizing that she was hyperventilating until Abbie poured whiskey into her tea. “Erica my dear,” she advised, “believe me when I say that you most definitely need this right now.”
Gratefully, Erica sipped her tea. She winced when she realized just how much whiskey her friend had poured. “Oh, my!”
Nodding her approval, Abbie encouraged her. “Just drink it to take the edge off.”
Erica heard the gentlemen starting to make their way into the foyer, so she downed the rest of her loaded tea, as quickly as she could.
Just then, her husband came to stand next to her, offering her his hand. He helped her out of her chair, and she received tearful goodbyes from her sisters. She received a warm hug from her father, who told her, “You will do very well with this one, my girl. Just be your wonderful self, and you will be just fine.” He sniffled. “And if that man gives you any grief at all, you just bring yourself right back here, to your papa.”
Erica smiled and hugged her father once more. There were few in this world who she loved as much as she loved this man. “Thank you papa, I love you so much.”
Sensing Nick's approach, she turned to the man who had only recently promised to take care of her. She wanted Nick to take care of her. In fact, she wanted nothing more.
Leading her out to his carriage, he helped her in and settled in behind her. The carriage driver pulled away from the curb and headed down the lane. Erica continued to wave goodbye to her family and Abbie until she could no longer see them.