The Wedding Deception

by Adrienne Basso

  He held her by the elbow and it would help her climb into the carriage when a female voice called out. A shiver ran down her spine. She turned slowly and met with Rebecca and her sister.

  - Ms. Manning. Mlle. Rebecca. - He let Claire's arm and greeted the two girls with a bow.

  Astonished, nor Rebecca Anne nor returned the compliment. Claire looked at, of course, guessing his identity. Claire blushed and opened his mouth, but quickly closed it without saying anything.

  - Rebecca ...

  She took the hand of his sister and both ran toward the car of the father. He uttered an expletive and made to go after it. Claire's voice stopped him.

  - What happened to them go well?

  Jasper would not need to explain, but for some reason, he said the truth:

  - The girl with a blue cover is Rebecca Manning, the woman I wanted to get married.

  - And looking straight into her eyes said: - That is, before you become my wife. The moment he sat in the carriage, Rebecca Collapsing.

  - What daring! - Furiously threw the bag on the floor of the carriage. - Present yourself in public with that creature after me promise that she would soon leave his life!

  And the way you saw them? So close, speaking in a tone of intimacy! I had to call him twice to repair it in me.

  - Lord Fairhurst seemed very annoyed at the meeting - said Anne, picking up her sister's purse.

  - Sure, you fool! He hated the attention, especially when it involves any event that could harm his reputation. Hopefully other people have witnessed the encounter!

  - Not quite. Lord Fairhurst ever ...

  - Shut up! If you say a word to defend him, I swear I'll give you a slap. Anne sat up on the bench and did not respond. Rebecca felt the urge to harm her sister in any way to vent their anger. Not expected to react with both jealousy and violence. Actually, not like Lord Fairhurst. Only agreed to the marriage to please his father, and especially to get rid of his authority.

  Fairhurst had a lot of qualities she wanted in a husband. He was rich, beautiful, possessed of nobility and inherit better positions after the death of the earl, his father. Most importantly, however, was knowing that the Lord will never love her, and she most certainly will never love him too.

  But apparently, this certainly is not to prevent him from feeling possessive. Seeing him with another woman awakened her all kinds of emotions. Happily surprised at the street. Although tantrums were his specialty, never stoop to the public.

  - Will my life be like? Forced to swallow anguish and humiliation day after day, Fairhurst while parading around town with this woman?

  - He was just helping her climb into the carriage - Anne mused quietly, stroking the hand of his sister. - It may have been a chance encounter.

  - My God, you are naive indeed! - Rebecca broke away from the affectionate gesture of Anne. - The coach was his! You did not see the coat on the door?

  Anne bowed her head and shook hands, but Rebecca did not notice. She was too busy with more pressing problems. Outside naive to believe the words of Lord the night before. He had not revealed all the truth that surrounded this strange marriage. And taking into account the encounter on the street, she doubted Fairhurst would strive to honor their commitment, after all, was never officially announced. The negotiations had been completed, the financial arrangement had been established, but no document was signed. Acting properly, it could escape the scandal and blame the back of Lord Fairhurst.

  Rebecca peered out the window. The storm of emotions began to pass, but the desire for revenge was still very strong. She smiled. Everything would work. The distress he felt initially with the idea of losing Fairhurst disappeared, giving way to strong and intense need to be cruel.

  And this matter, she understood perfectly.

  Chapter VI

  Jasper did not intend to return to the mansion with Claire. Restless and eager to be alone with his thoughts, had planned to put Claire and the maid into the carriage, and then back to the club.

  But the unexpected encounter with Rebecca had changed everything. Lost the will. The possibility that some member had witnessed the incident on the street was a risk they would rather avoid. So he reluctantly entered the carriage and remained silent throughout the journey.

  The vehicle stopped and Claire peered out the window.

  - We?

  Jasper only confirmed with a nod.

  A waiter opened the carriage door and offered his arm to Claire. She came down and Jasper followed up quickly. Now they come, just wanted to take refuge in the comfort of your office and decide how to fix this mess. Had it repaired. Once we stepped into the hall, the butler delivered an urgent message to Claire. She opened the paper and quickly read the message. His face paled.

  - Bad news?

  - More or less.

  - It's my brother?

  - No. It's my great aunt Agnes. - Claire looked at him with concern. - You are eager to meet my husband. In fact, she expects to be received by us two this afternoon. Jasper vaguely remembered Claire have mentioned such a relative the night before.

  - If you wish to receive visitors, you can use the golden hall. The chef will gladly serve what you ask. Just ask the butler to arrange everything.

  - You will be present?

  - No. But convey my respects to Aunt Agnes.

  His tone was more harsh than intended. Claire was not offended. She was on the staircase, one step above him, gazing at him, hoping he might change his mind. Jasper was very annoyed with the situation. Was not obliged to help Claire, his brother Jason are best suited to the role of knight errant.

  - Aunt Agnes will be disappointed if you do not make an effort to meet her - Claire said after a tense silence. - And also suspicious.

  - The problem is not mine.

  Claire nibbled his lip. He looked at the message and back to Jasper.

  - It will become a problem if your Aunt Agnes suspect, even remotely, of our unusual situation.

  Jasper raised an eyebrow, uncertain whether her words would contain a veiled threat.

  - Then I suggest you tell him the truth. The sooner the better.

  - As soon as she learns the truth, the whole world know.

  - Ask him to be discreet. For the sake of the family.

  - My dad says to tell a secret to Aunt Agnes is more effective than placing an ad in the newspaper. She is simply unable to keep a secret.

  - In that case I will leave you to resolve this delicate situation, since she is a member of your family.

  Claire raised her shoulders slightly.

  - Even if I were inclined to confide about our situation, what I say to you? I married Lord Fairhurst. That does not mean you're my husband? Or Jay?

  Jasper let out an exasperated sigh.

  - I am paying a fabulous sum to one of the greatest minds on legal issues of this for me to answer that question. I promise, soon as I know, tell Aunt Agnes. Grumbling, Fairhurst lord bowed and sought the quiet of his office. He opened the folder of correspondence and one half hours, examined the papers without being able to concentrate.

  The house was quiet. His mother had not returned, and apparently would not return at dusk. At least Claire had the opportunity to receive the aunt in particular. Try as he might, could not shake the image of Claire's mind. Stopping on the stairs, so good in her new dress, looked lost and hurt him with unkind refusal. Suspecting that he would regret later, Jasper took a deep breath and left the office, heading for the golden hall where Claire was alone with his eyes downcast and hands folded.

  - His visit has not yet arrived? Claire looked at him with a distracted air.

  - Aunt Agnes always lags five minutes. Not a second more or one less. Within two minutes she'll be here. If you want to avoid it, there's still time.

  - My brother and I are alike only in appearance. In personality, are different as day and night.

  - Nobody knows that better than I, my lord.

  - So tell me how to act to save her aunt think I'm Jason.<
br />
  - Will you help me? - Claire asked.

  Jasper tried not to notice the look of relief on her face. Not only would such a sacrifice for her, but mainly to avoid a major scandal. - I'll give you a warning, my lady. Do not lie for you. - Never ask such a thing. Just tell the truth.

  - What truth?

  - Aunt Agnes knows that I married Lord Fairhurst. - Her voice was firm, but his eyes were somber. - Is it sufficient to present him as lord Fairhurst. She will be pleased. I should warn you that it will make indiscreet questions, as the state of his finances and his political convictions.

  - Survive.

  - Prepare yourself, my lord. She is an opponent, though. Despite their age, Aunt Agnes is very clever. - Claire frowned. - Finally, think it could be less formal?

  - How so?

  - I am very romantic, and everyone back home make jokes about it. The story of my relationship with Jay lightning is a subject much talked about in our little community. Aunt Agnes heard all the details, which were more exaggerated. If you keep behaving in ways their boring, she'll never believe us.

  Jasper gave him an indignant look. What audacity to accuse him of being boring! He was deliberate and controlled, always the perfect gentleman. Never would a loving husband, even in front of other people!

  The sound of a mild cough prevented him from responding to the task. Looking over his shoulder, saw the steward standing at the door.

  - Mrs. Agnes Humphrey - he announced.

  Aunt Agnes came with a thoughtful look at the elegance of the room. She was short, robust, and was dressed all in black. His features were striking features, keeping the beauty of youth. Jasper stood up and straightened his shoulders, but soon took a more casual attitude.

  - Aunt Agnes, good to see you. - Claire's aunt kissed cheeks, and turned to Jasper. - Can I have the pleasure of presenting it to Lord Fairhurst?

  Agnes bowed his head slightly in return for the fulfillment of Jasper, then faced him.

  - I waited too long to meet you, kid.

  - I have heard a lot about, milady - Jasper responded with kindness. Aunt Claire led to a chair and sat down beside her. Jasper stood with one arm resting on the frame of the fireplace, assessing the situation. Agnes looked at him fixedly, as if to penetrate the deepest point of his soul. Kind words and good manners would not be sufficient to give a good impression. Jasper was not easily discouraged. Almost with resignation, set out to be absolutely charming. Asked about the trip, over time, health, the favorite topic of the elderly. Agnes replied in a tone of complacency, as if those trivia questions that bothered her. And, as if expecting him to feel honored to be asked by her, said:

  - I certainly hope that proves to be a gentleman worthy of the hand of my greatniece. I'm not impressed with your procedure to this point, but I'll give you a chance to redeem himself.

  Jasper pursed his lips. Her words express exactly what he would say to his brother, if given the chance. Went to look for Aunt Agnes with new respect.

  - Claire is really a jewel, my lady. I promise to commit myself to constantly improve and be worthy of her niece.

  Claire raised an eyebrow, surprised by the statement. Still dazed, he pulled the bellrope. A servant answered and she gave orders that the tea was served. Minutes later, the boy put the tea tray on the coffee table, and so he turned away, Agnes insisted:

  - I believe that husband and wife should live together, Lord Fairhurst. Jasper grinned.

  - Generally, this is how the couples live.

  - It will be well with you?

  - We'll see - Claire intervened, taking the platter of cookies and extending it to the aunt. - Try an oatmeal cookie. They are delicious.

  Agnes took the biscuit, but left it untouched in the saucer. His gaze focused Jasper again.

  - I wonder why he traveled to Wiltshire to find a bride. The girls from London does not appeal to him, my lord?

  Jasper felt a chill. Could she have heard comments about his marriage to Rebecca?

  Agnes did not attend the same social circles as him, but juicy stories always came to every corner of the city. On the other hand, if he had heard any comment about it, it would have faced when they arrived.

  - I did not travel to Wiltshire in search of a bride, but came back with one. - He looked at Claire with a burning look. - Say that escaped my control.

  - Oh, he's romantic! - Agnes exclaimed with a beaming smile. - What about the children, Fairhurst lord? Want to have children soon, no?

  - Aunt Agnes ... - Claire questioned.

  - I'm just saying I want some nephews, great-grandchildren to cheer my old age.

  - There are many things we want, aunt. Life is not all joy and do not always have everything we want. - Claire patted the hand of her aunt. - Or we deserve.

  - Yes .. You're right.

  Jasper was impressed. Aunt Claire had managed to detain without insulting her. The conversation shifted to other issues, and by the end of the visit, Agnes did not mention their favorite topics, namely, himself.

  At bottom, should thank the good lady. If she had not insisted for Claire to visit her husband in London, he was married to Rebecca and adultery. He shuddered just thinking about the proportions of the scandal.

  Finally, the visit ended. After hugging her niece and say goodbye to Jasper with a graceful curtsy, Agnes left the hall just as entered, with the nose up and rustling skirts.

  - Well, it was not too bad - Jasper said.

  - Compared to what? In the Spanish Inquisition?

  - I confess that it is a little overbearing.

  - Yes, a little. - Claire laughed.

  - I think she liked me.

  The comment earned a fun look for Claire.

  - You were absolutely charming and exceptionally patient. Thank you.

  - Just absolutely charming?

  - Extraordinarily charming. Are you satisfied, my lord?

  They both laughed. The irritation that Jasper felt before disappeared. In its place was a strange and almost desperate tenderness. Their faces were close, and Jasper has become much more conscious of the warmth and femininity Claire. Decided to unbalance it.

  - As you know, did not attend his wedding. By all accounts, it is possible that I'm the groom. - He held the hand of Claire. - I think I have the right to kiss the bride. Despite the expression of amazement, she did not protest. Encouraged, Jasper nodded and brushed his lips on hers, feeling its softness and warmth. He knew that the softer taps could provide the greatest pleasures.

  A tingling sensation started at the point of contact and spread rapidly through his body. Proved Claire lip and inhaled its fragrance sensual. She sighed and he sucked her lips eagerly.

  At the same time, held her head between her hands and with his fingertips, has skirted the line of the eyebrows and cheeks. Then his lips pressed harder, prompting her to open her mouth so that the tongues touched.

  He felt her shudder and pulled her into the bodies of amoldarem. His mouth was a delight of softness and eagerness. The tongue dueled his. The heat intensified. Jasper tried not to be haywire, but the taste of her lips fed his desires. The pleasure burned his body and blood in the veins throbbing in rhythm hot and powerful. Jasper felt the passion that it offered, the passion that she was able to ignite and experience. And at that moment, he found the truth. I wanted that kiss to turn into something more.

  In a deep corner of his mind, flashed a spark of sanity. He knew that his behavior was unthinkable. With great reluctance, lifted his head. Claire blinked and staggered. He held her by the shoulders, supporting her. She took a deep breath and looked around. In an instinctive gesture, placed his hands on his chest, but not pushed.

  - I think it was a folly - she murmured. Jasper agreed. Outside one of the more misguided actions of his life, kiss the wife of his brother. But his conscience was not concerned with the issue of ownership, but his vanity was a man who resented her reaction.

  - It was so unpleasant? She shuddered.

  - No. In fact, it w
as spectacular.

  Then, with a mysterious smile on her lips, she left the room. Jasper followed it with their eyes, questioning. Why kissed? Was it because she called him boring? Or a kind of revenge against his brother, responsible for this untenable situation. Or, the most disconcerting of all possibilities, he was losing some of his famous control and succumbing to the passion that inspired Claire so strongly?

  Claire climbed the stairs wondering what happened. He could not explain why it had allowed Jasper to kiss her. Typically, one person was filed, although he was always in the company of Lord Fairhurst, she felt the need to do crazy things. It was nice to think that the initiative off the kiss, but acknowledged his share of blame, it had a chance to say no. And, taking possession of his mind, thoughts screamed yes.

  After Henry, she never reacted physically to any man. In the circumstances, Lord Fairhurst should be the last man she should be emotionally involved. Upon entering the room, approached the window. The sun began to set. Soon the garden to cover the twilight, buttons hoping for the warmth of the sun the next morning to open into splendid flowers.

  The garden kept the promise of spring, the allusion to the beauty to come. It seemed a metaphor for his feelings for Lord Fairhurst.

  The thought saddened her. The conflicting emotions he faced was evidence of the attraction he felt for the first time since Jasper.

  But he had no right to such emotions. Lord Fairhurst belonged to another, and she to another. His relationship with Jay was not romantic in nature, and never would, but that was the agreement that he accepted.

  And the agreement that would keep forever.

  At least now, she had memories. For a long time was not granted. Jay could be considered the libertine of the family, but the kisses of Jasper Fairhurst made clear that Lord knew how to please a woman.

  Just thinking about it, Claire was on shaky legs. Determined, banished the thought and images of his mind. He spent the rest of the afternoon in the rooms, deciding whether it would be better to stay here alone and sit quietly at the dinner table. He needed to get used to loneliness. It would be a nice evening, but would not be horrible. It would be exactly what it was: the reality of their future. Eventually, when he could not control his thoughts, remember the kisses of Lord Fairhurst. But with the pleasant memories, the warning was cruel. She should not kiss him again. He was not her and never would. Deceiving him only bring disappointment. Unfortunately, the mind does not dictate orders to the heart. As feared, Claire spent half the night awake, and when I finally fell asleep, the memories of kisses seducing a charming man populated his dreams.