Once Upon a Duke

by Sandra Masters

  Geoffrey removed his garments then untied Serena’s silk pants and they fell. He sensed she was white hot and welcomed the singe. Unable to delay another moment, he pulled her to the floor. She welcomed his glorious invasion when his manhood found her entrance. She clutched at his back, digging her fingernails into his flesh.

  Geoffrey pushed into her, hard and fast, until the world crashed around them in exquisite pleasure.

  The release only increased the avalanche of need. His shaft remained hard and steadfast.

  “More, my love. I need more.” Serena raked her fingers through his hair.

  He stroked her wet, soft inner flesh with his finger before entering her again with his manhood. He thrust again and again, as each continuous orgasm became more intense. She screamed his name as they soared to the heights of Olympus.

  He growled as his desire was finally sated and he relaxed against her. The afterglow of this precious moment with his woman would warm him for a lifetime. He pulled Serena to him. “You have branded me with your kisses.”

  “I don’t see a brand on your face, unless you consider your scar as such.”

  “Your mark is tattooed on my heart, Serena.”

  “You are a wonderful man. I have never experienced such elation.” She caressed his forehead, and pushed a wayward curl aside. “Were you ever in a tent in the Turkish desert?”

  “No. I hear some Turks are barbaric.” He laughed. “I have never been there. I do know the country is bordered on two sides by water. A trip to Istanbul could be an experience. Would you like to go?”

  “Yes, but not at the moment. I want to stay like this, with you, Geoffrey.”

  “Do you understand Italian?” He had a specific reason in mind.

  “No. I never had the desire to speak the language.”

  “What a pity. It is such a flowery tongue. The words are like a caress. Penso che sto per cadere nell’amore con voi.” I think I am about to fall in love with you.

  “What is the translation?” Serena tried to recall the words, but they were foreign to her mind.

  “That is for another time.” He took her hand to his mouth, sucked each of her fingers, one at a time.

  “You are deep in thought, Geoffrey.” Her head rested on his shoulder.

  “Whatever am I going to do with you? We are good together. When we are intertwined this way, we have the world at our beck and call. Come away with me, Serena. How many times do I have to plead?”

  “It is not that simple. I cannot pick up and leave. There is my horse for one thing.”

  “You make an excuse. I will get you another horse, a better one.”

  “You do not understand. I love Sheba. I could never leave her behind. There is a different proposal I want to hear from you.” She held his head—forced him to look into her eyes. “My wantonness is for you alone. There could be no other, but I cannot become your mistress. I won’t be the pretty thing that hangs on your arm, so you can show off your conquest to your friends.”

  “What if I go away and never see you again?” Geoffrey demanded.

  “You would punish us both. It will break my heart, but if that happens I will console myself with the memories we shared.” Serena’s eyes overflowed. “I could never love another man.”

  “What if I did not come back for a year, two years, or even three? Would you still wait for me?” He wasn’t sure how the conversation took this bent.

  “I cannot answer in honesty, Geoffrey. My tragic marriage taught me a great lesson. I want children with all my heart. I want their father to love me and be faithful. Happiness, for me, is being married to my best friend. Is there such a phenomenon as a faithful rake?”

  “I do not know,” he answered with sincerity. “So you want babies?”

  “Yes, I do.”

  Damnation. Did she expect a proposal from him?

  “Will you raise them or will you flit about and have a nanny responsible for their education and well being?” He wondered…would she be like his mother?

  “I want to be involved in their rearing, as I expect their father to be. Of course, there will be a nanny, but I will be consulted in all things she does. We will play together, and as they grow older, they will learn to ride—and learn how to care for their mounts. There will be times when I will spoil them, and at other times they will be chastised, but Geoffrey, everything will be done with love.”

  Serena pulled her body free from the hold of Geoffrey’s leg upon hers and stood. “I had a sad childhood and I want theirs filled with joy, happiness, and fond memories.” She smiled, took a wrapper from the armoire and slipped it on. “I wonder if you can understand my words.”

  She turned, demanded his gaze. “Most important, I want to continue to love their father in the same passionate way that I did before they were born. Too many women forget to nurture their relationships with their husbands once they bear children.” She paused. “I will not be one of them.”

  “Would you settle for a marriage of convenience?” Geoffrey knew the answer before he asked.

  “Such marriages are not what they appear.” Serena waved her finger at him. “It means you go your way and I’d go mine? Would we get together on occasion or for the holidays? Will we live under one roof but in separate quarters in the house? Does it mean you carouse at night with other women? Would I have lovers? No, I would rather remain an unmarried widow.”

  Geoffrey went to embrace her and wrapped his arms around Serena.

  “I enjoy our fantasies when we make love. However, please know that when I call you Master, it is only for the moment. I am no one’s chattel. No man’s slave. I will be equal to the man I choose. Nothing less will suffice.”

  “Serena, you are such a challenge. I appreciate your strength, but there are times when it can be an impediment.”

  “I don’t believe that. No more talk of compromise. Perhaps you should return to London.” Her hands pressed against his chest, gentle but strong. “If you please, I think you should go back to where you came from. Ask somebody else all those questions.” She sniffled.

  Serena had become his addiction and obsession, but he wouldn’t do what she requested of him.

  “I shall leave at morning’s light.” Geoffrey held her hands. “Come, let us retire to the bed and enjoy a blessed sleep.”

  The early morning sun streaming through the window awakened him. He nudged Serena and kissed her cheek. “Good-bye, sleepyhead. I hope our night together will remain a fond memory.”

  Geoffrey rose and dressed. “Might you have a pair of scissors?”

  “For what purpose?” Her forehead creased.

  “I want a lock of your tresses to tie in the ribbon that fell from your hair when first we met.”

  “In the drawer next to you.”

  He reached for it. “I shall not damage your crowning glory. I will take only a small ringlet from your nape.” He snipped the strand and wrapped it in his handkerchief, then tucked it into his pocket.

  She laughed. “You, dearest, are an unusual man.”

  He looked out the window. “The sun rises high, I must hurry. Someone may wonder whose strange horse is in your stable.” He turned. “They would wonder, would they not, Serena?” He acted like a jealous fool. Why did the thought nag him?

  “Geoffrey, if you were not already prepared to leave, I would demand you depart at the suggestion I could be unfaithful. You wound me.” She gazed away from him. “You have no reason to think such. I have pledged myself to you.” It was he who did not return the pledge.

  “You are right. I apologize.” He opened the door. “There will be an empty spot in my life without you.”

  He blew her a kiss and turned to leave, but paused as she spoke. “Your words are equally empty, Geoffrey. If they were true, you could not leave me. Go now, before you are discovered.”

  Geoffrey galloped to the village, returned the horse to the stable and entered his coach where his driver waited. He already knew every day he didn’t see Serena woul
d be painful. She was an honorable woman, yet one filled with passion, and she was willing to share it with a man she could trust. Was this a woman to whom he could be faithful? One with whom he wanted to have those children she spoke about? He could be a good father, he knew. No, he must not think this way. Such thoughts came at a price—the loss of his freedom.

  Perhaps his friend, Lord Carleton, had a point. He should not rush into anything. After all, they had all the time in the world at their disposal, and Serena never denied him. Yes, that was a more acceptable option.

  ****

  The smell of smoke and soot assailed his nostrils when he reached London. The sound of belching factory chimneystacks defiled his ears. Over the day that followed, he busied himself with obligations, the acceptance of invitations, visits to White’s, his solicitor, his tailor, perfumer, and jeweler.

  A week later, he received a correspondence by messenger from the Director of the Sacred Order of Mortal Saints requesting his presence at a meeting at headquarters on Downing Street. He looked at his watch and saw that the meeting was in two hours.

  He advised his majordomo to summon his carriage and driver, headed to White’s Club and sought to find Lord Carleton or any of the other Saints who might also be called upon to attend.

  At the famed club, he joined them while a hushed discussion ensued about the purpose of the summons. After another round of drinks, they headed to Downing Street in separate conveyances.

  As they settled into the private room, Sir Lawrence Chapman, Director of Affairs, entered. After greeting the men, he called the meeting to order.

  “It has come to our attention that our division may require your services overseas in France. I have not been given details, but am placing all of you on notice to be available to leave as soon as twelve hours. It is quite possible the mission may be cancelled—or it may be escalated.”

  He motioned to a map on the wall and pointed to Dover. The only information I am authorized to relate to you is that you will board a ship that will guide you through the Strait of Dover and you will disembark at Calais. On board his Majesty’s vessel, you will be given sealed envelopes detailing the mission.”

  Lord Chapman cleared his throat, and adjusted his watch fob. “If you do not hear further from me, it will signify the cancellation of the mission. Gentlemen, for the next three days, you will be at the ready. Go back to your residences and attend to your affairs. Good luck.” He departed.

  Lord Carleton faced Geoffrey. “Well, that was a strange request. We usually are given the envelopes ahead of time so we can analyze the mission requirements. I wonder to whom we will report.”

  “I can only guess that it’s top secret and special priority. Best we get our affairs in order. It has been a while since we have gotten an assignment.”

  Geoffrey pondered the mission and could understand why the Ministry decreed that no married men would be appointed to such an elite group.

  If Serena were successful in prying a commitment from him, he would have to give up the Saints. He would miss the excitement that missions usually entailed.

  Another reason to keep a clear head.

  ****

  Three days later, when the proposed mission was cancelled, disappointed but relieved, he felt it might be time again for a visit to his lady. Geoffrey had his driver take him to Mr. Higgins, a pre-eminent jeweler on St. James Street. He wanted Serena to have something special. The cravat and shirt request, while a sweet gesture on her part, wouldn’t prevent him from lavishing her with expensive jewels. It would be his way to win her over to him—as his mistress. Jewels might make her change her mind.

  He departed the carriage and entered the establishment. When Mr. Higgins saw him, his face lit up. Geoffrey had a reputation for spending money on the women he wanted to impress—or say au revoir.

  “Your Grace, you honor us. It pleases me to see you again. How can I assist?” His smile broadened as he rushed to offer a chair to Lord Geoffrey who sat after adjusting his coat tails. Mr. Higgins fawned over him. “May I offer you refreshment?”

  Geoffrey shook his head and looked around the establishment and spoke in a soft voice. “I search for a special piece for a unique woman. I would like to see a black pearl, perhaps surrounded by diamonds. Do you have any such jewelry or would it have to be custom made?”

  “We do have a large black pearl that just arrived from Tahiti. If you would care to tell me how many diamonds, we can have it ready for you in a few days. You will have to choose whether you want gold or platinum.”

  “I prefer platinum. Show me the item.”

  The proprietor gave instructions and an attendant presented the pearl. Somewhat elongated, it had a strong presence and it radiated hints of green and purple. Lord Geoffrey envisioned it in between her breasts, highlighting her dark eyes.

  “Yes, that will do. Show me a chain and let me see how it presents itself.”

  Mr. Higgins took a brilliant diamond necklace from the case and offered it to him on a black velvet tray.

  Higgins cleared his throat and suggested, “We can set the stone in the center, with the diamonds on each side. You are correct; platinum is the finest metal for such a memorable piece.”

  “There is no need to ingratiate yourself any further. I am in a generous mood. I need it by tomorrow at eleven. Will that be a problem?”

  The jeweler stiffened. “No, your Grace. For such a customer as you, it will be done. Shall we deliver it?”

  “Yes. I will be busy with other matters.”

  “Your Grace, you did not ask the cost.”

  “No, I did not. Send the invoice to me, but make it an honest price if you want to retain my business.” Geoffrey’s eyes went to a man’s watch in the glass case. He pointed. “Do you have one that opens on the reverse side?”

  The jeweler’s forehead creased and eyebrows arched. “Such as a locket?”

  “Yes. If you have one, I would like to see it.”

  Mr. Higgins snapped his fingers and an attendant went to the back room and brought out another tray. “This is an antique watch, your Grace. It is a seventeenth-century piece. I say so because of the style and porcelain face.” He showed Geoffrey how the latch on the back lifted. “Did you want it engraved?”

  “No. It is for a lock of hair. This will do. I will wait for you to wrap it.”

  “Yes, your Grace. I will add it to your invoice.” Mr. Higgins bowed and gave him a smile.

  Geoffrey exited the store, joyous. He finished his shopping rounds and dwelled on the thought to see how Serena would accept this most extravagant gift. She deserved it for the pleasure she gave him. He wanted to impress her and knew just how he would present it to her. He would place it around Adonis’s neck, then hand her the pup. His mind envisioned her face and expression. She would kiss him and the puppy as well.

  A more contented man did not exist in England and its colonies.

  Chapter Nineteen

  Serena received a summons from her brother to attend him at dinner. The mantel clock neared seven. She’d need to hurry.

  “Henry has sent me a last minute request. I wonder who he entertains. Emma, is my royal purple dress clean?”

  “I’ve not heard any talk of a visitor, mistress. The gown you seek is in the wardrobe.” Emma laid the dress on the bed. “How shall I fix your hair?”

  “The dress calls for it to be swept up. See what you can do to tame my curls.”

  The maid worked with deft hands and combed Serena’s hair in place with two jeweled barrettes. With a kohl pencil, Serena etched her eyes and then rouged her cheeks. She applied the dark pink lip pomade and pressed both lips together.

  Emma helped her into the dress and secured the lavender necklace around Serena’s neck. From the jewelry box, she selected matching earrings and handed them to her mistress.

  “You look beautiful.” The maid gave Serena her gloves and reticule. “I hear hoof beats. The phaeton is here to take you.”

  Emma descended the stairs
ahead of her lady and held the door. The footman assisted Serena into the carriage and drove the short distance to the manor house. She entered the home and went directly to the drawing room.

  Her brother greeted her, and a gentleman who stood near the fireplace turned her way as well. “You remember Lord Leland LeBran, Serena?”

  She curtsied to him, and he nodded.

  Lord LeBran inspected her with his eyes and quizzing glass. “That color suits you, Lady Serena.”

  His words caused her flesh to chill. His tone unsettled her, while his eyes laid her bare as if he examined a prized steer. Why was she here? This man frightened her with his ominous presence. There were no other guests. Henry knew she disliked this man. Things did not bode well for her.

  She thanked Lord LeBran and sat on the settee. “The last time we met, my lord, you were saddened at your wife’s funeral. I do hope you have recovered from your grief.”

  “Yes. I am prepared to move on. Thank you for your inquiry.”

  “Serena, Lord LeBran is to stay with me for a day or two. We have personal and business matters to discuss.”

  The butler came and announced dinner.

  Lord LeBran extended his arm to accompany her, she instead grasped Henry’s sleeve. LeBran’s eyes flashed then narrowed at the intended insult.

  She sat at the table next to Henry and across from his lordship. Her wine goblet held red wine, not her favorite since she preferred the white vintage, fruity and sweet.

  “Henry, are the cellars devoid of white wine? You know it is my preference.” She smiled. Her request would perturb her brother, which was her intention. “If you had advised me of this visit, I would have seen that all was in order.”

  Henry called for the servant to provide Serena with her wine of choice.

  “Lord LeBran, do you like to hunt?” she asked, to break the cold silence.

  “No, although my estate is large enough. However, we have a preserve where the red deer, doe and bucks, are protected. “

  “Where is your home?” Serena set the wine glass aside making room for her favorite when the servant arrived.