La Contessa and The Marquis (A Rogues and Rakehells Mystery Book 1)

by Lindsay Downs

  “Not to mention her cane if she can get close to you,” Bianca added.

  “Yes, that also as I have several estate letters which I need to compose. I thought being out in the air overlooking the garden will make doing them more enjoyable,” he explained, then sliced off another bite of roasted beef and dipping it in egg yolk.

  “Then m’ lord you’re more than welcome to join me.”

  “Later, when it’s fashionable to be strolling about I thought we could take the landau to the park. I’m sure Her Grace would be interested in joining us,” Rainer suggested.

  “Most definitely. Also, shouldn’t Lord Fuller be returning sometime today,” she reminded him.

  “I believe so. If I don’t miss my guess he has and he’ll be hunting out his latest conquest this afternoon.”

  “Then, shall we finish breaking our fast?” she said before slicing off a piece of ham.

  Once they finished eating Rainer escorted Bianca to the stairs then waited until she gained the first floor. He then hunted down Stanley, which wasn’t hard as the man was never far from him.

  “You still don’t trust me, do you?” Rainer ordered.

  “Of course I do m’ lord. I’m only following Her Grace’s order.”

  Rainer moaned knowing his movements about the palace were still being watched, even though most of the time he knew he wasn’t aware. Mayhap, once he offered for the contessa and she accepted then when they visited he might not be kept under observation.

  “Fine. Now, I need two writing desks taken to the gazebo.”

  “It’s already been taken care of,” Stanley told him.

  “Thank you,” Rainer replied, forcing not to groan at the man’s ability of knowing what needed doing before being instructed.

  Climbing the stairs to his suite he collected the letters delivered yesterday which needed answering. As he started to leave Mike appeared with another dispatch from Bobby, the second today which didn’t bode well. Taking it he unfolded and skimmed through it, then smiled.

  “M’ lord it would appear this is good news for a change?”

  “Yes it is,” was all Rainer said taking it along with the others with him.

  He knew this was something Bianca needed to read for herself, not hear from him. For then, and only then, would she realize this horrible episode in her life would finally, and very shortly, come to an end.

  Not sure when she’d make her way to the gazebo he started there only to hear, as he approached, Bianca and, he rolled his eyes on recognizing the other voice, his godmother conversing. He did have to admit to himself he’d instructed Bianca to have a chaperone but why her of all people.

  At least with both ladies present he would be able to impart the information he had received from Bobby. With a glance to make sure no staff were present he stepped up to his godmother and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He then turned to Bianca and raised her hand to his lips.

  “What is that all about Rainer? You’ve never been so chivalrous before?” Margaret demanded of him.

  “Once you read this, then you’ll understand,” he calmly said, while directing his attention to Bianca then handed over the letter to her.

  ****

  Earlier that morning at a cottage in Rose Hill

  “I told you before I had to rush to my estate not to do anything until I got back. Now both of your men are in gaol because of your impatience,” Tony screamed.

  “I directed them to keep a watch over her and not to do anything. I can’t afford to lose them as they have certain knowledge which can’t get out. Why they did what they did I’ve no idea? Now you’re going to have to get a couple of trusted men to grab her when you feel the opportunity arises,” Nardo pleaded.

  Tony had hoped the man would set that task on him as he knew the perfect men to use—his footmen. What he needed to know, why were these individuals so important to the barone? Was it possible they were the ones who’d killed the conte and their son? To elicit this information he knew he’d have to be very careful in questioning Nardo.

  “Getting someone to replace your useless people could be a bit hard. It’ll take me a day or so to find the right ones. And speaking of such, why did you send them over from Italy? Wouldn’t it have been safer and easier to find someone here, after all from almost the very start I’ve been at your disposal?” Tony declared, hoping to get the answers he needed.

  From where he was standing, a shoulder resting against the door jam, Tony studied the man sitting in front of him. What he noticed mostly was Nardo appeared nervous as he kept shifting in the chair. Frustrated, it was taking so long to answer a simple, but he knew revealing, question he levered himself off the wall and started to pace. This, from the few times they’d met, irritated the barone and in the past had gotten him to say something he later regretted.

  “Damnit, stop that. You know I don’t like it,” Nardo snapped.

  “I’m still waiting for your answers and don’t have time to waste,” he declared.

  “In Italy, unlike here, we prefer to use the same people who we trust explicitly to do certain jobs such as removing someone permanently. This way we have the deed hanging over their heads,” the barone said, to defend his action.

  Now Tony was only a few minutes away from finding out what he’d been tasked to do.

  “So, I’m guessing you’ve had them kidnap someone before?”

  “No, this was the first time. Their talent is murder and that’s why I had hired them to remove the conte. They did balk at children so I had to take care of the brat myself,” Nardo proudly told him.

  As there wasn’t another soul in the cottage Tony knew he’d have to get the man to admit what he’d ordered and done in front of a witness, Bianca. From the way Nardo was talking Tony was beginning to wonder if the man could be losing part of his mind. He’d heard of cases where it might happen, usually from guilt, so now time was of the essence.

  “I’d best be off so I can find the perfect men then discover what your daughter has planned over the next few days.”

  “Yes, yes go and do what you must. What about her guard Cross?”

  “Worry not about him. I’ll take care of him myself,” Tony said, then turned on his heel and left.

  Outside one of his coaches, without the Earl seal on the door, awaited him. He directed the driver to take him back to his townhouse as he had a letter which needed writing and delivered immediately.

  Entering via the mews, which was the most convenient, he was met by Jamison, his butler.

  “I’ll have luncheon in my office and have a footman in street clothes report to me,” Tony ordered, then took the servant stairs to the first floor.

  Once in his office he took out a piece of foolscap, examined the nib on the quill pen then wrote a note. After folding it he used sealing wax to secure it as Jamison and the footman entered. He next addressed it then handed it over.

  “This is to be delivered to Lord Cross at his townhouse. Put it in Bobby’s hands and only his. Tell him it has to reach His Lordship at once,” Tony directed the footman, then cleared his desk to accommodate the luncheon tray his butler carried.

  While he ate he wondered what Rain’s reaction would be on reading the news he’d sent. Then of course, he had a bit of personal information to tell his friend but didn’t include it in the note. What he wanted to say had to be done face to face if for no other reason than to see his reaction.

  With his afternoon meal finished he called for his landau to be brought to the forecourt. He’d decided, this time, to use the front door knowing no one would be watching his townhouse. Instructing the driver to take him to the park he was a little nervous at the impending meeting between him, Bianca and Rain.

  His plan was to arrive earlier than socially proper as he need the time to survey the area for the best spot to approach them.

  When he found the perfect place he joined a group of friends to catch up on the latest gossip, not that he listened since he was keeping an eye out for Rain. A
fter several minutes of listening he spied his friend escorting Bianca towards him.

  With bows and nods to those about him Tony separated and started for his friend, a bright smile on his face.

  “La Contessa Goretti, Rainer what a pleasure to see you again. By now you have learned I’m not working for the Barone but against him only he doesn’t know it,” he said.

  “Yes we do. Why didn’t you say something to me earlier about it? You know I would have helped in any way I could,” Rainer declared.

  “I wanted to but this was the way your late husband wanted it. The fewer people knowing, the safer it would be for everyone.”

  “The letter, what you wrote, is it true?” Bianca asked.

  “Yes but it’s more complicated. I have a plan but it might be a little dangerous for you m’ lady.”

  “I’m willing to do whatever is needed to bring him to justice,” Bianca uttered, then glanced to Rainer.

  “I’m in agreement also. Shall we return to the palace and discuss it over tea?” Rainer suggested.

  Chapter Fourteen

  Rainer Cross, Marquis of Hathaway, purposefully kept his back to his godmother and Bianca as they entered the duchess’ sitting room. Now more than ever, he didn’t want his facial expression to signal his true feelings about not only his love but what would happen later. Draining the last of the whisky he took in a breath, enjoying the burn as the liquid slid down his throat then turned to face them.

  “Contessa Bianca Maria Ledford Goretti”, his use of formal address to her signaled his intention and concern. “Are you sure you’re ready for what will happen sometime this eve?”

  “Lord Cross, I am. It’s time we put this to rest and bring those responsible to justice. Granted, I’m a bit nervous but once everything is set in play I will be able to do my part. I also know in my mind but more importantly my heart you will protect me from any harm.” He was happy to hear her declare.

  “Children, I know you wish I attend the ball but thinking on it I’ve chosen to remain at home,” Margaret declared from the settee where she’d ensconced herself.

  Rainer glanced to Bianca only to see an understanding smile in her eyes. When Tony had presented his plan, Rain’s concern had been his godmother and how she’d deal with the faux kidnapping. Being fully aware of the event then casually call for her carriage could have alerted Nardo, or others. With her decision to remain home that would now work to their advantage.

  “Dearest Margaret, I do believe that would be for the best. This way you can tell the authorities you’ve no idea of what happened, even when they attempt entry here for I’m positive Stanley wouldn’t let them past the front stoop.”

  “On that you can be assured m’ lord. Even if the king, himself, or Prinny sent a troop of cavalry demanding an audience I’d not let one enter,” Stanley proudly announced from the doorway.

  “I don’t believe that would happen but thank you,” the duchess told the man, then turned back to Rainer. “We know Lord Fuller will be using several of his footmen but it would make me feel better if we had our own also.”

  Deep down Rainer knew she was right but having sent his men back, since the two henchmen were in custody, he wondered if he could rely on Stanley’s footmen. They would be the best choice as many, if not all, knew Bianca by sight and him also. Stepping over to the side boy he splashed some more whisky into his glass then turned to the ladies.

  “Excuse my manners. Would either of you care for a sherry?”

  “Yes please,” Bianca said, giving him warm smile.

  “Dearest Rain, considering what will be occurring in the next few hours sherry won’t calm my nerves so I’ll have the same as you,” the duchess ordered of him.

  Hearing what his godmother desired, somehow, didn’t come as a shock to him. He’d known in the past she’d sampled some of Scotland’s finest and had enjoyed it.

  “Certainly,” he answered only to be replaced by Stanley.

  “With your permission, m’ lord I’ll pour and you may deliver them. Just remember to serve from the left and clear from the right,” the butler announced loudly enough to make sure Bianca heard.

  What Rainer didn’t appreciate, besides the pronouncement, was the giggle emanating from Bianca. Cocking his head to Stanley he glared at the man then gave a low growl.

  “Thank you for that, now I’ve a job which needs doing. It’s in regards to what the Duchess mentioned but first let’s get these to them,” he said, picking up the sherry for Bianca.

  He waited until his godmother had her glass then turned to the butler. “We need several average looking footmen in regular attire posted around the Brown townhouse. What they must understand, they’re not to interfere when the contessa and myself are forced into an unmarked carriage. The men doing this will be from Lord Fuller’s townhouse so things should go as planned.”

  “M’ lord, I know the perfect ones to do this task. If you’ll excuse me Your Grace,” Stanley said to her. “I need to get things going so they will be in position.”

  “Wonderful, go do what needs doing. Then, once we finish our drinks we’ll be dining,” she answered.

  Later, with dinner finished Rainer handed Bianca up into the ducal landau. Taking a seat beside her he gently held her hand in his, only to notice it trembling ever so slightly. This told him she was nervous about what would be happening sometime during the ball.

  Granted, he was a little worried but possibly not for the same reasons as she. He wondered if the footman was going to hit him over the head to hard, rendering him insensible. That couldn’t happen as he needed to be able to hear what Nardo said when confronted by Bianca.

  “Calm yourself my dear, for soon everything will be over and you’ll be free of the man,” he whispered. What he left out, then we can, if you’re willing, marry.

  As their coach rolled forward to the carpet he noticed she took a deep breath then turned and gave him a smile. “Yes, which will make me happy so then I can get on with my life.”

  What he also failed to inform her, the kidnapping wasn’t planned for late in the ball but early. After the first waltz they were to adjourn to the terrace where Tony’s men would grab them. He knew getting her outside wouldn’t be a problem as she loved to enjoy the fresh air, which was one of the reasons upon marrying they would retreat to his country estate.

  Handing her down from the landau he settled her gloved hand on his arm then led her up the granite stairs. In the vestibule he handed her cape over to a maid, then proceeded to guide her to the receiving line. As planned, by arriving an hour after the appointed time, they didn’t have a long wait until introductions with the host and hostess were made.

  As they stepped onto the dance floor the orchestra started playing an introduction to a country dance which made him happy. “Shall we sit this one out?” he pleaded, hoping she’d agree as he hated them and couldn’t hold her in his arms.

  “Yes. Right now I’d like to find a divan or chair to sit down as I’m feeling my knees are weakening in worry.”

  The next, a quadrille, he allowed Tony to partner with Bianca. No sooner had it ended then the musician started to play the prelude to a waltz. Meeting her part way to the chair she’d claimed Rainer bowed. “Contessa, may I have this dance?”

  “Most certainly m’ lord, I would love to,” she declared, rising from a slight curtsey.

  He was pleased to note, she bestowed a sensually suggestive smile to him. Was it to be held, again, in his arms or knowing events would soon come to an end. Being a male he hoped it was the prime but considering everything he suspected the secondary.

  Making their way around the floor he was pleased to feel her relaxing. When the dance ended Rainer offered his arm to take her back to the chair.

  “Instead, do you mind if we get a breath of air?” she suggested.

  With a bow he said, “Your wish is my command.”

  Stepping out onto the terrace he glanced around to see it wasn’t crowded which he appreciated. Am
ong other things he hoped to steal another kiss from her before Tony’s men showed up. He placed his hand on the small of her back and guided her to a shadowed area. Turning her to face him he backed her against the balustrade then reached under her chin, tilted her head up then slowly descended his lips to her.

  So focused on Bianca’s mouth he never heard footsteps until it was too late and was hit over the head sending him to his knees. The last thing he heard before partially losing awareness was a muffled scream from Bianca before a sack was thrust over his head. Next, he felt himself being picked up and thrown over a shoulder. Minutes later he was dropped unceremoniously onto the floor of a carriage.

  “Stay there and don’t move,” a voice ordered.

  He felt as Bianca was put in the coach and told the same but by a different voice.

  From outside the carriage a familiar voice, Tony, told the two men to take them to the Buona Fortuna. There they were to wait until he arrived and keep both hidden from the barone. Rainer sensed the carriage shift as one of the two men climbed in where he and Bianca were. The other he guessed climbed up to the box before they moved off rolling him toward the seats.

  Rainer wasn’t sure how long it took before they arrived at The Pool but was glad when they stopped. Being bounced around wasn’t pleasant and he suspected he would have marks all over his body as a result.

  “Stay here, don’t move or make a sound,” the first man told them.

  “It would be a little difficult do run away with my hands and feet bound.” Rainer heard Bianca spit out.

  “Aye, there’s that,” the man said.

  Again, they waited for what seemed forever before voices came from outside the carriage, one being Tony. With him here Rainer knew everything would be coming to a satisfactory conclusion soon, which pleased him.

  Dragged by his feet from the floor one of the men set him standing on the ground. Still, unable to see because of the hood he then heard Bianca brought out and stood up beside him then the sack was taken off his head. He immediately looked over to her and saw the hood had been removed from her also and gave her a comforting smile, which was returned.