by Arlene Lam
The curt tone of her voice and reference to Amelia not even being human did not go unnoticed and instantly Jordan’s smile fell from his face and he placed space between them. “No more a joke than your marriage to Lord Conway.” Conway had long been known to enjoy the company of men. Jordan was sure the man thought no one knew of his secret but the fact remained everyone knew, along with his pretty and neglected wife.
Lauren felt a scowl mar her face but quickly forced it away. “Touché Mr. Bradford, though I meant no offence, I am merely curious as to the circumstances.” Moving a glossy lock from her shoulder Lady Norrington tensed at the firm hold Jordan now had on her hand, still she pressed on. “Of all the fine women to marry I simply won’t believe you chose her.”
Suddenly the beauty Lauren Norrington held seemed to dissipate and was replaced by something else Jordan couldn’t quite place and he dropped her hand as if she held barbs in them. “Please excuse me.” Jordan bowed respectfully but did not feel she deserved it.
“Jordan please.” Lauren hissed sweetly. “I apologize.” Moving swiftly in front of him Lauren successfully stalled him. “You can’t blame me for being a little jealous we had some marvelous times you and I.” Patting her fan to his chest flirtatiously she gave him a wicked smile. “We still can you know?”
“Where once I was childish and chased after whores and hussies now I am a man and have learned what it’s like to have a real Lady warm my bed and your charms are no longer desired.” Taking her hand in his Jordan kissed it maliciously. “Buck up though, there are more than enough men in London who’ve tasted your fruits and may desire a second bite, and if not there’s always dear old Conway.” Upon viewing her shocked face Jordan made his exit.
He would not let Lauren or anyone else spoil this important night. However he prayed that Amelia was faring much better with Katherine Kilborne though from the shy grin on her face earlier he assumed she was. Katherine had always been a jovial woman whose sweet mannerisms and carefree nature made her a joy to be around. Grabbing a glass of sherry Jordan took a large sip, he needed it he realized, to help stop his worrying. He could have laughed at himself. Never did he think he would find himself in this predicament again worrying near to death over a woman.
Johanna sidled alongside Jordon cradling a flute of port in her tiny hand. “I can’t abide sherry, how can you stand it?”
“Acquired taste.” Was Jordan’s response. “Though at the moment some brandy would suit me better.”
“If its brandy you seek then you should head in to Will’s study he keeps a king’s ransom of brandy in there.”
“To dull the headaches you give him?”
“You can be rather witty when you want to be Mr. Bradford.” Johanna quipped. Furrowing fine brows she asked. “So will tonight be a success or a disaster?”
Jordan gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder. “You’ll be the toast of the town you did a fine job.”
“I thought so.” She took the time to take another sip from the cup she held. “Though eavesdropping is not befitting of a lady, I did manage to discern enough from my haughty guest to conclude that Amelia will be a budding socialite herself if given the proper training and company. I think they find her to be an exotic addition to this bland social group. I’ll advise her to tread lightly however, as should you. A success today can be a mess tomorrow under the right circumstances. “I’ve already had to cool the head of Lauren Norrington, you’re lucky that she is not all that well received.”
Snorting Jordan shook his head. “She’s received in every male bed in this ballroom.”
“Don’t be crass. Lauren may be a viperous trollop but you don’t want to offend her too much as to get Conway involved.”
“That fop Conway can’t see his way out of a questionable back alley, I don’t think I’ll worry too much about him.”
Johanna coughed at the latter part of Jordan’s statement and had to hide a smile. “All the same try not to be too impossible you’ve only just arrived back into the bosom of London.”
Jordan considered this a moment and mentally agreed. “You do look downright ravishing tonight Johanna has anyone told you that.”
“I dare say I have Bradford, many times before the night even began.” Will had been standing behind the two for nearly a minute and realizing they hadn’t noticed him decided to make his presence known.
Johanna beamed at the sight of her husband and stood on tiptoe to place a chaste kiss to his cheek. “And where have you been hiding my love.”
“In my study with my king’s ransom of brandy of course.” Will laughed out loud at the deep blush that came to his wife’s cheeks. “I met your wife Bradford and I can see why you married her.”
“I am a lucky man.” Jordan replied. “As are you.”
“Indeed, but I digress, your cousin requested that if I crossed your path before she did tonight, to inform you that you owe her a waltz.”
Jordan grinned at this and looking out tried to find Margaret. “Excuse me I better give her that waltz or I’ll never hear the end of it.”
The orchestra struck up another tune and Amelia felt herself falling in place. With Katherine as her guide she had met and greeted many of the guests in attendance already. As well as committing herself to several tea dates one that was tomorrow at noon with Katherine she felt herself anticipating it already.
She would have to let Jordon know however they’d all insisted on visiting her home due to her current state and chided her at being out at although they’d been pleased to meet her. They filled her head with thoughts of croquet and visions of Piccadilly Square and she was becoming more and more excited for her new life in London. Lauren Conway had sworn the moment she had the baby and was well enough to travel she’d come to take her to the London Museum however she didn’t feel that the invitation was truly intended to be taken up and only extended because the other ladies had done so with exuberance.
"May I have this dance?" Jasper bowed gracefully, hand extended.
"Jasper you know I can't dance but I'd love for you to escort me back to the garden there is a bench there we could sit and rest a little."
"With pleasure." With all eyes upon them Jasper maneuvered his way through quizzical glances and overzealous guests who stepped forward to stop them. He even managed to swoop up a glass of water for Amelia which she accepted gratefully. "Are you enjoying yourself?"
Amelia gave him a devious smirk. "The attention I've received from two rather handsome men has been quite nice but the ball itself does have its ups and downs so I suppose what I'm trying to say is that overall I'm finding it exhilarating and exhausting all in one."
"As I figured you would. Johanna suggests for your sake as well as that of society, you make an early exit. As far along as you are, it would be ill advised to spend the night on your feet."
"I welcome the thought; my poor toes are starting to swell. I took my shoes off while with Katherine." Amelia giggled as she peeked her naked feet out from beneath her dress. "No one has been the wiser."
"Clever." As they passed through the wide patio into the garden Jasper scanned the stone trail for harmful objects that could cause her bare feet harm.
"I'm tough don't worry, you’re acting like Jordon."
"Now I'm insulted." Motioning toward the marble bench he waited for her to sit. "I should let Jordon know you're ready. Will you be alright on your own for awhile."
"Yes." Amelia patted his hand in assurance. Which was enough she guessed because without another word he started off back the way they'd came nodding curtly to a blonde—Amelia thought her name started with a G, and Lauren Conway who curtsied in response.
Amelia could tell the ladies were headed toward her and readied herself for the horde of questions to come. Rising to her feet she greeted them kindly. "Lady Conway." Turning to Lauren’s companion she gave a curt nod. "I apologize but I do not recall your name."
"Mrs. Gwendolyn Stork, we crossed paths but only for a moment and did not
get a chance to exchange words. How are you Mrs. Bradford?"
"Truthfully I'm exhausted."
Gwen gave a snort. "As should be expected it’s not at all common for a woman in your condition or social status to attend one of our gatherings. I'll admit I was surprised to hear you were to attend."
Amelia was sure there was a sharp edge in the lady’s response. Choosing not to respond she turned her attention toward Lauren. "Are you enjoying yourself Lady Conway?"
"I insist you call me Lauren, and yes Mrs. Bradford I am."
"I'm glad of it and if I'm to call you Lauren you must call me Amelia. We will do away with all formalities."
"As we should, where are your escorts?" Lauren cut her eyes at Gwendolyn, they did need to pretend to like her. "I hear that you are retiring early."
"Word does travel quickly, and yes. Mr. McMahon is fetching Jordan now."
"I find it hard to believe you let that man out of your eyesight, you don't want him to stray."
Amelia found it was her turn to scowl. "He would not."
"You never know, our dear Mr. Bradford does have a reputation, but let me be quiet he has you now and surely you make him happy." Curtseying sweetly Lauren gave Amelia a sugary smile. "I bid you a goodnight Mrs. Bradford; fret not looks as if he is already in a rush to be by your side."
Looking toward the entrance to the house Amelia spied her husband, and Margaret with Jasper in tow heading toward her. There was no mistaking now that Lauren was in no way going to be her friend. Should she have expected more? Forcing a smile to her lips Amelia took a deep relieving breath and started walking to the trio closing the gap.
"Are you ready?" Jordan linked his arm with his wife's, if she was not ready he was. Upon noticing Amelia with Lauren, Jordan had a nagging stirring in his stomach. Who knew what Lauren was trying to poison Amelia's mind with. He could tell even now that something had to have transpired between the two. He could tell because he knew his wife very well and as she stood next to him now he could sense a bit of anger.
"I am." Was her response.
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
To say that she was irritable was an understatement. As of late she was just plain disagreeable. It didn't trouble him but he was annoying her, so today Jordan would make himself scarce.
Pulling on his white shirt he buttoned it with fast moving fingers. Tucking it down into the black trousers and pulling the braces over his shoulders. Next he put his arm though the grandly embroidered emerald double breasted vest positioning his ascot just right before buttoning his vest over it. Next came the town coat and he gave a little laugh.
It had been a long time since he had dressed everyday in such a manner, though he always dressed well. Snatching up his top hat he tilted it slightly upon his head liking the angle, and having to go against the everyday normalcy somehow. Lastly he pulled on his deerskin gloves, connected his pocket watch and grabbed for, then decided against, the gold topped walking cane. He could walk without an aid as far as he was concerned.
As quietly as he could Jordan crept over to the edge of their bed and kissed the top of Amelia's head. However as he began to stand, her hand came out to touch his and stilled him.
"Where are you going?" Amelia was groggy from sleep and lazily pushed herself up in bed.
"Go back to bed Princess."
Suppressing a yawn Amelia grinned at her husband. "Have I been so terrible that you've taken to sneaking out at the break of dawn?"
Taking a seat on the bed Jordan laughed at that. "Yes my dear you have, but don't fuss I've not taken it to heart."
"Stay with me." Amelia began but he was already shaking his head.
“That wouldn’t be wise; I know when I'm not wanted." Chuckling Jordan rose again determined to leave and not be drawn back.
"You're always wanted."
"Enjoy your morning. I won’t be gone too long." Tipping his hat to her he walked through the double doors of their room bowed again once outside of them and then shut them quietly. She desired his presence at the moment but if he'd stayed he'd find that much too soon he would manage to rile her ire with a heavy sigh, or a look, even by the way he'd read from a book to her once. No today was a day for separation if only a few hours. It would do her good and give him a break from the assault.
Nodding a greeting to Thomas their newly acquired butler he uttered a thank you as the man pulled open the door for him.
The carriage was already waiting in front; clambering in Jordan waived the coachman on. This would take some readjusting to. In America he opened his own doors and rode Colossus whom he'd sent for, everywhere he went. He dressed moderately and most of the time you'd see him in just a shirt and trousers as he went about his errands.
He was headed to meet with Jasper and Nathan Crombly, the Baron of Essex an old friend at the Cittie of York. He'd suggested the pub as it was one of his favorites when in London and as the carriage turned onto High Hilborn he could see from the window Nathan walking in.
As soon as the coach came to a complete stop, he was stepping out taking in the wet air and just in time for Jasper to come up and clap him on the back.
“How are you holding up, I hear Amelia is giving you hell in that mansion?”
“Hell and headaches, but understandably. Soon it will be over.”
“Serves you right but I do believe you’re a glutton for punishment.”
“I’m actually escaping my abuse right now.”
“I see, I have a wager going with Margaret—I say you’ll have a boy, she’s bet her pounds on a girl. Want to join in?”
“No, it’s a win either way. I don’t have a preference.”
“Better a boy, if you have a girl and she takes after Amelia you’ll be in a world of trouble. Besides if it’s a girl you will spoil her rotten."
“As I should, women are my weakness these days. Come on Nathan is already inside I saw him arrive moments before us.”
Jasper nodded and stepped into the pub eyes adjusting to the dimmer lighting. Immediately a young raven haired beauty came up to them. “A glass of port gents?”
“Brandy please.” Jasper responded noting how the woman’s eyes lingered over his face and figure and her rosy cheeks.
“And you sir?”
“Port and Nathan I believe you are partial to Scotch.”
“I am.” Nathan had sidled up alongside that pair the moment they walked in
As the girl scampered away obviously flustered, Jasper turned to his friends. “Ha, she didn't even notice you; apparently I'm still handsome as ever.”
Jordan didn't respond what did he care for the girl’s attention anyway? Soon she was back and leading them over to a high table and seating them.
“Anything else?”
“No thank you.” This was Nathan in his deep baritone British voice. Giving her a smile he noted she looked near ready to swoon, reaching into his pocket he produced a gold coin and placed it into her palm.
“Oh thank you sir.” The girl stammered nearly knocking a chair over in her retreat.
“I believe I'm the victor here.” Nathan chuckled; he was as handsome as his companions and knew it. He had deep green eyes, chestnut hair and a tall strong frame. The only one in the trio not married, he was still free to womanize as he pleased.
“I care not.” Jordan was filled with mirth as Jasper grumbled to himself being as competitive as he was. “Margaret would have words with you if she were privy to this scene.”
“Ah but she's not.”
“On to important matters I've heard about your new wife Jordon? I'll have to admit seeing will be believing. Rather risky this marriage.” Nathan chirped. For the past month the city was abuzz with gossip revolving around the new Mrs. Amelia Bradford. Was she a really a Negro, the most prominent amongst them? No one believing the American they'd come to adore would lower himself so. He himself didn't believe Jordon had done it.
“We can arrange an introduction but I assure you she is real.”
�
�And no doubt ravishing to get you to commit in such a way, most men would have thrown a couple coins at the woman and walked away.”
“I'm not most men and she's not a common street whore.” Jordon flared.
“No but a common whore might have been a more acceptable choice in a bride.”
Jordon could feel his temperature rise and Jasper cleared his throat in warning to them both.
“Calm down I'm only stating what most would have done. My God man you do realize what you are risking?” Nathan explained
“A few dim witted associates, an invite to an affair I'd rather not attend?”
“I'm not the enemy my friend. I am only asking if you fully comprehend what you've done? I just want to know that you’re sure before I throw myself in with your lot. It would be a damn shame to be shunned by some of those sweet English flowers for nothing.”
At that they all laughed. “So it's the loss of the chance to bed a few high society ladies that causes you pause?”
“What else? I could care less about the men.”
“At least we have the endorsement of a Baron.” Jasper joked. “We’ll make sure to keep you drowning in females so as not to have you renege.”
“That reminds me, how is Alice?” Jordan set his empty glass on the table.
“I’ve not seen her in over three years.”
“I have no idea how our conversation could have sparked up her memory, however she’s well, probably tucked away with her nose in a book. She’s so smart it’s a shame they wouldn’t accept her at the universities. Her father won’t let her study abroad either. It sickens me, to see her so unhappy.”
Jasper rolled his eyes. “She’d put her books down in a second if you’d ask her too. For all your smarts the two of you can be so dense. You don’t even realize what’s between you.”
“Because there is nothing between us, Lady Haughton is a cherished childhood friend, nothing more.”
“Cherished.” Jordan chuckled. “I’ve no doubt of that.”