“No, Althorn waits for me.” When the door closed, she ventured forward.
“Why doesn’t he come in? Is there a problem?”
“At the King’s Ball last night, Samantha and I were in the retiring room…” The words spilled out and she related them in articulate detail. She paused in between. The happiness on his face changed to a shocked expression.
“Cassandra, if you were a man, I would probably challenge you to a duel even though I’ve suspicions about my wife. You are my beloved sister and what hurts me most is that I haven’t been a better brother to you. I sat here in thought before you came in, it might be a smart idea to hire a Bow Street Runner to investigate Felicity’s activities. I hesitated because such action would indicate I didn’t trust my wife. Well, I don’t, yet it’s hard to admit I created this problem when I chose an actress for a wife.” He arose from his chair, and walked toward her. He extended his hands and pulled her to him. “You’re the good sister and I’ve been a rotten brother.”
“No, Brent. It’s not so.”
He hugged her. “I’d like to apologize for my ill treatment of you. I allowed Felicity to sway my affection. Do you know how jealous she was of my concern for you?”
Cassandra looked up at the brother she adored. “We will always be sister and brother. We have a bond stronger than any Gordian knot. Please don’t do anything foolish, will you?” She rested her head on his chest; small tears fell on his waistcoat. She touched her hand to her cheeks to blot them.
“No, I accepted a while back what my next step would be, but around each bend I hoped the road would change. It didn’t.”
“I’m sorry for you,” she murmured.
“Sister, you caused me to ponder when you were little and leaped to the big oak tree outside your bedroom window. You had a misstep and you hung on to the limb for dear life. I came to your rescue and held you in my arms while we waited for a ladder. I was thirteen then and I made you promise you’d never try such foolishness again without me there to protect you.”
“I remember it well.” She tugged on his waistcoat again.
“You’ve given me information that may save me from a precipitous fall at Felicity’s hands.”
He went to her, and kissed her cheek. “Thank you. I need a favor, Cassandra.”
“It is done.”
“No. Speak to your husband first. I’d like you to take care of Alfie until this mess with Felicity is straightened out. I could divorce her, but that would require an action of Parliament. She has cuckolded me and the world will know about it. I don’t care to be the laughing stock of London. Fortunately, I hold the purse strings, but I wouldn’t put it past her to harm Alfie.”
“I know Althorn will agree. Alfie spends much of his time with us anyway. He loves the puppies and his life at our villa. I will convey your request in any event to my husband. He has offered his assistance in any manner you need.”
“Thank him for me. It won’t be required at the moment.”
He walked her to the door. “What I’ve appreciated most, Cassandra, is that you took care of Alicia yourself without a thought of what it could do to your reputation. Nadeen was my fiancéwhen she met her soldier, but I’ve had fond memories of her. I loved her first, but she loved me not. I wonder if I’m destined for heartbreak.”
Brent walked her to the corridor. “Go, now, before Felicity returns. I don’t want her to connect any actions I take with you.”
He opened the door to find Felicity and Gordon at the doorstep.
“Montgomery,” Althorn said in a strong tone. “Is Cassandra ready? We have to return to the villa.” He turned to Felicity. “Our home is a happy nest of activity. My mother sends her regards to all. Come, Cassandra, let’s depart.”
He doffed his hat and Cassandra joined him down the steps and they entered his carriage.
Before the door closed, Montgomery said, “Felicity, I’d like you to join me in my study.”
Chapter Twenty-Seven
In their carriage, Althorn asked. “I take it the conversation went well.”
“It was the most difficult thing I’ve ever done. He was crushed, but he said he had his suspicions. He’s asked us to take Alfie under our roof until he is able to resolve the problem. Do you have any objection?”
“Nay. I’m used to Alfie and he does need a man’s hand to guide him, not that there’s anything wrong with yours, my dear. As he grows older, he’ll need to learn so many boyish things to do. I’ve thought to enlarge the stable. Maybe we can get ponies for the children a little later. I’m also looking into a breed of Asian hot blooded animals to train for racing.”
He took her to him. “You were courageous. There is no end to how much I admire you, my wife. People should never live together if they think and want someone else. He made a poor decision and now he has to resolve the issue. It won’t be an easy task.”
“He’s so hurt. I know he’s ashamed. If he divorces her, he castigates himself. He can’t keep her under his roof if she is traitorous. I don’t envy him. I offered him your assistance if required.”
“Montgomery is a strong man in a weakened emotional state. He’ll have to take the lead. He could always send her to some European country or to the Americas. A barrister will give him apt advice. Meanwhile, let’s go home and advise Alfie of the good news.”
He heard her sigh of relief. “What say you?”
“I’m glad I agreed to marry you, Gordon.”
“To tell the truth, I’m thankful you did.” He kissed the top of her head, drank in her scent.
“Gordon, if I can help it, I don’t wish to see Felicity again. It’s unfortunate she came earlier than usual. The vile woman will recognize I delivered the news of her indiscretion.”
“Do you fear she will accost you? If so, she will have to answer to me. I’ll dispatch her quickly.”
She rubbed the top of his gloved hand. “You can’t protect me from everything. Besides, you’ll be away on your Parliamentary duties more than you’ll be home. I’m such a worrisome person. It’s a bad habit to anticipate trouble.”
“It depends on the issue. In war, lives are saved by planned contingencies. She is not at war with us as yet. Perhaps it is a good suggestion for you to avoid visits there. I’ll invite him to my men’s club in a day or two, would that help alleviate your concern?”
“Yes. Thank you, they’re probably at each other by now.”
“I feel for him, Cassandra. He’s a good man involved with a bad woman. He will need our help.”
Soon they arrived at their home where the door was opened by Chester who welcomed them with his unperturbed smile.
“Is my mother awake, do you know?”
“The dowager is in the sitting room sipping mint tea. I might add she’s in a merry mood. Miss Alicia kept her amused and read to her from a schoolbook. As usual, Master Alfie is by her side. And, of course, Runt and Giant play and hide under the settee.”
The duke showed his amusement with a grin. Yet he had a good reaction about it all. Was it possible somewhere along the way he’d become domesticated? Only heaven knew.
Cassandra removed her gloves, cape, and bonnet and walked to the sitting room. “Mother Madelaine, I hear the children have entertained you with their antics.”
She nodded; her face held obvious contentment.
“Miss Dutton has left you unattended?” she asked with concern.
The dowager scribbled a note. I sent her to the kitchen to see about the children’s lunch. Not to worry.
Cassandra read the note and handed it to her husband who nodded and sat in a chair. Alicia scrambled to his lap, a book in-hand. “Shall I read to you, too, your Grace? We are almost at the end of the story.”
“Alicia, when we are with family, the way we are now, you don’t have to use my title. Your Grace sounds stuffy.”
“Auntie says I should show proper respect.”
“She is correct, my dear. Families do make exceptions on these matters of ho
norifics. If you wish, you may call me Uncle.”
Alicia’s blue eyes sparkled. “Auntie explained to me all about those titles. When I grow up I want to marry a duke just like you. Would you help me find one?”
“Nothing less than a duke will do for you, dear child. Perhaps I can even find you a Prince.”
“Like Cinderella?” she asked in a gleeful gesture, placed the book on the side of the chair, and threw her arms around his neck.
Taken aback by the embrace, he said, “Yes, but we have a little time yet for such courtships.” He laughed heartily. His mother’s eyes shone bright and perhaps brimmed.
Miss Dutton returned and took the children up to the schoolroom to have lunch and prepare for their lessons.
The duke nodded to Cassandra. “It will be harder to find a Prince than a duke. If she grows into a beauty such as you, though, perhaps one or two will knock on our doors.”
Cassandra raised her brows, “It was kind of you to accept her embrace and promise her a Prince. Does she do that often when I’m not around?”
“She’s taken to bidding me a good morning and sits on my lap while I do some work. Alicia is much an inquisitive child and intelligent for her age. You’ve done a good job with their education, Cassandra. You should be proud. Everything seems to blossom at the touch of your hands—your golden hands.” He cast a sly smile. He arched an eyebrow and his eyes held a story.
“Althorn, you are indeed a rascal.” Cassandra excused herself and said she had to check about the dinner menu.
The dowager wrote a long note to him. He took it from her hand. Cassandra brings out the good in you, son. You seem content. Does that mean I may become a grandmother one day? I look forward to the prospect.”
“Mother, don’t get your hopes up. I haven’t planned on such an event. We have enough children, dogs, and puppies about as it is.”
Her notepad was snatched and she wrote vigorously. There’s always room for one or two more.”
Gordon laughed. “So you would not be content with one, but would like two?”
She nodded.
“All in good time,” were the words he used to placate her. In actuality, he had given the matter significant thought, especially since their love sport had taken on new meaning for him. The decadent fashions she created and tested on him made it difficult to resist his celibate intentions. He walked to his study in laughter. My celibate intentions have been caught up in the wind and have disappeared. I’m blessed with an eager wife. Such wonderful exhaustion.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
Cassandra returned to the dowager. “Do you feel we may be able to surprise Gordon this evening? Have you practiced?”
She answered with her voice, “Yes.”
Cassandra clapped her hands. “That’s good. Your son will be pleased even with one word. Shall we try a full sentence?”
Cassandra closed the door. “Let’s start now. Go slowly. If you make a mistake, don’t worry. It is not a failure. It is if we don’t try.”
She and the dowager worked for about two hours. “It’s time for your rest, Mother Madelaine. I’ve had the kitchens prepare Gordon’s favorite meal for tonight. It will be very special.”
She walked the dowager to the upstairs room and covered her in a warm comforter. “Sleep well, dear heart. I’ll be sure to wake you in time to dress in a special gown. Think of yourself as an actress about to give a magnificent performance.”
The dowager mouthed the words to Cassandra, You too.
Cassandra nodded. “Me, too.”
Cassandra arranged for the dowager to dress in a teal blue beaded dress that highlighted her silver-hued hair. The bodice had a high collar and she wore sapphire earrings and a favorite necklace from her late husband.
She checked on Mother Madelaine. “I’ve not seen you look more beautiful.” Miss Dutton would wait with her until Cassandra dressed. She went to her armoire and asked Anna to select the deep golden champagne gown just arrived the day before from the seamstress, another of Cassandra’s designs. The maid prepared her hair in a tight chignon intertwined with pearls, the sides were piled high on her head.
She looked at the reflection in her mirror and although it flattered, Cassandra thought her dress was a bit tight. She went to her escritoire and penciled a note to speak with the seamstress about the other dress yet to be delivered.
Cassandra walked to the door, knocked, and walked in. “Are we ready to descend? I’ve asked your son to wear his dress dinner clothes, also. He’s not sure about what we prepare to do, but he knows we’re up to something.” She giggled. “I would like you to enjoy yourself tonight, Mother Madelaine.”
Cassandra took the dowager’s arm and they walked to the banister, and started to descend with the wooden rail as a support. Now at the entrance to the dining room, Cassandra gave a broad smile, “Let’s show him how good we look.”
The servant opened the door for them to enter.
Althorn arose and walked toward the two ladies. “Mother, you are resplendent. Why have you not worn this lovely ensemble before? Perhaps I shall commission Mr. Knightsbridge to paint you as soon as you are up to the task.” He assisted her to a chair on the left of his.
“Cassandra, since it’s only the three of us, kindly sit on my right.” He held her chair for her.
“I’ve determined the two of you scheme at something. When you are ready, have at me.” His laugh was relaxed and jocular. He turned to his wife. “The servants lighted the main chandelier. This must be a singular occasion since it is aglow. Thank you, it is a special one made in Murano, Italy and shipped here. My mother and father purchased it on their honeymoon trip to Venice.” He paused, then added, “Perhaps I should plan a trip for us there if you would like, Cassandra. It’s such a romantic country.”
“Perhaps,” she answered. “There’s much we still have to do with you in Parliament.” She smiled at the thought.
“I’ve read that hand-blown Murano glass is the finest in all of Italy,” Cassandra looked up at the candle glow.
The servants started with the first course of mock turtle soup. The second course was an entrée of saddle of lamb with peas and roasted potatoes.
They spent a pleasant half hour simply in enjoyment of the meal.
Gordon addressed his mother, “I should like you to come down to dine with us often. Would that please you?” he asked as he speared a delicate piece of the lamb.
“Yes,” she answered in a clear voice. She looked to him.
He continued to eat, returned his knife and fork to his plate, took his serviette and patted his mouth. Althorn’s brow creased and he searched his wife’s face to assure he heard correctly. “Mother, did you just speak?” He got up to go to her side.
“Yes,” she said again.
“Dear God, you’ve made me so happy. I don’t know what to say.”
“Perhaps you should ask your wife to help you.” She grinned, looked at Cassandra’s pleased countenance and the duke’s shocked expression.
Gordon fell to his knees. “Mother, can you pronounce more sentences yet?” He held her hand. “I’ve missed your lectures.”
She looked into his eyes. “No, but I learn every day. That is all for tonight.” She winked.
“Cassandra, you have performed a minor miracle. The duke placed his hand to his heart. “It is more than a miracle of God. This marvel was made possible by you and your tender care. I will never forget what you’ve done this day.”
Cassandra also went to the dowager’s side and knelt. “Capital, Mother Madelaine. Your elocution was superb, but we don’t want to tire you. And be proud, you spoke quite a few sentences. She placed her head in the lady’s lap, whose hand then rested on Cassandra’s hair.
She stammered a little, “For…for…for you, my daughter.”
Tears formed in Cassandra’s eyes. She placed her hand to her mouth to stifle the sobs. She arose and said, “I will get you dessert, Mother Madelaine. I was told by the cook Charlotte Russe is
a favorite of yours. There’s a compote of cherries and small Neapolitan cakes. A little bit of each?”
The dowager nodded. She motioned her son to rise and be seated.
“However did the two of you manage this?” He addressed his question to Cassandra.
“Your mother has worked diligently on her lessons and at her first success, she wanted to overdo, since she is anxious to recover her speech.” Cassandra took a sip of the white fruity wine she preferred and set the glass to the right of her plate.
“Althorn, please taste the desserts. The kitchen staff worked hard to make this happen. I should like to reward them, but I do not have any coins.” She poised her spoon on top of the Charlotte Russe and skimmed the top. Her eyes lowered.
“What need do you have for coins?”
“All the food bills for meat, produce, wines and dairy are invoiced to the household. I don’t have coins for fripperies and the like. I should like to reward them tonight, if I may. Could you arrange to give me some?” Her eyes held mirth, but her intent was clear. She picked a few cherries by the stem and popped one into her mouth, raised her eyebrow to him—and flirted shamelessly.
“Cassandra, all you had to do was ask Chester for them.”
“I don’t believe it proper for me to ask the majordomo for money without your knowledge. Perhaps it slipped your mind I might need them to run the household? Or are you just frugal with household affairs?”
“It didn’t slip my mind. I simply did not think of it. I am a frugal man, and I do value money management.”
“I would think the purchase of gowns and jewelry deny that fact.”
She piqued his vanity,
“It was for special occasions. You are the wife of a duke of the realm.”
Her voice was sweeter than ambrosia, “And your Duchess wife thanks you, but while I reside here, Althorn, could you issue instructions to Chester to give me the funds on a weekly basis? It would be much appreciated.”
“How much?” he asked, and stifled a grin.
“Whatever you think is best. I know you personally to be a generous man,” she paused, “in all things.”
My Divinely Decadent Duke Page 20