by Allison, Kim
"Your family has been advised of your coming and I am certain they are looking forward to seeing how their investment is faring." Elyssa's mouth dropped open at the insult, her eyes clouding with tears. It was one thing to feel that her parents had used her only for monetary gain through marriage, yet another entirely to hear her husband voice it aloud.
"I shall send up the butler for your bags. Goodbye, Elyssa, I will see you in a week." With the slam of a door, he was gone. She'd been dismissed, literally, and Elyssa didn't know whether to laugh or cry at the irony of the husband she'd not wanted, being the one to turn her out of their home.
Within moments Elyssa was seated inside the expensive carriage on her way to the busy streets of London for the first time in months. The leisurely trip gave Elyssa too much time. Time to ponder the void in her life. She felt unwanted and unimportant in any real sense of the word. And always had, if the truth be known. Her parents hadn't cared about her feelings, but rather had exchanged her chance at future happiness for a quick coin and a jaded husband.
Percy certainly didn't want her. She had no real friends to speak of, male or female. Oh, she'd had plenty of friends during her years of growing up, though none that she'd kept in close contact with over the last few years.
The only person that had ever seemed to really want her––Daniel––was gone. And she knew that had been only in the most shallow of ways. He didn’t even know her really. He certainly didn’t have genuine feelings for her.font-size:0.83rem; hi dow
She knew it was silly, this infatuation she felt for him. Knew that although her marriage was not one of happiness, it was a matter of moral principle that she forget she'd ever met Daniel. And besides, had she a choice now? He was gone, probably forever. She'd watched him leave with her own eyes. Chances were a year from now she would scarcely remember his stolen kisses, much less his name.
__________________
Daniel reluctantly accepted another generous serving of wine. At the head of the table sat one of his business associates, Bernard Bailey, who'd been kind enough to invite him to a small dinner party a few days after his arrival in London. Although that thanks he more than likely owed to Bernard's sultry wife, Abegail, who was seated to her husband's left, directly across from Daniel.
Her foot seductively made its way up Daniel's leg, and not for the first time during dinner. Daniel nearly spilled the wine onto his pristine shirt at the unexpected return of Abegail's foot, but managed to spill only a bit onto his nearly empty plate. Discreetly sending a glaring message with his eyes, Daniel was not pleased to see the amused smile in answer. He could see from the blatant look of lust in Abegail’s eyes that she was recalling their night shared together nearly a year past.
At that time Daniel had found her beautiful and exciting. And terribly wanton, one of his favorite attributes in a woman. Only now, for some insane reason, Daniel could find only flaws in Abegail. Her blonde hair now seemed rather dull, her wide smile making her mouth appear too large for her slender face. And the feel of her stockinged foot sliding precariously along his thigh seemed too bold for Daniel's liking.
His recent tastes seemed uncharacteristically drawn to darker hair. Much darker. And smiles more timid and infrequent, making the sight of one even more splendid. And although his previous encounters with Revee seemed to find her more and more untouchable, it was perhaps that elusiveness that made him want her so.
Whatever the case, Daniel now found Abegail's persistence rather annoying. The only reason he'd agreed to the dinner was because Bernard was inviting several other businessmen Daniel had planned to meet with during his two week stay in London. This one dinner party might very well shorten his trip by a good many days. It would mean seeing Revee that much sooner, and the thought brought a long forgotten feeling of exhilaration.
Sometime before his departure from London, however, Daniel was determined to track down his stepmother. If Percy was telling the truth, his wife was staying with her family perhaps only miles away. A few simple questions would certainly aid in his pursuit of the woman. Daniel had no plans to harass her, not really, but merely to have an adult conversation regarding her marriage to his father. And her intention of stealing away his inheritance.
Once he had the matter settled––and Daniel had no intention of failing––he would be free to return to Paris if he so desired. Of a certainty he did not wish to reside with his father and stepmother at Greystone.
Perhaps he would stay in the quaint house he now owned that was located only a few miles away. The London home had been left to him by his mother but Daniel had never bothered to have the place prepared for occupancy. The fleeting thought that perhaps Revee might live there one day as his mistress was short-lived as Daniel faced the realization she was wed already.
She was extremely unhappy though, and Daniel was determined that he would be the man to undo that. He refused to allow her husband to ever leave a mark on Revee again and if the eventual result meant a damned divorce, then so be it. Divorce might be the utmost scandal in London's polite society, but Revee, not being one of the haughty ton, would be for all purposes a virtual unknown in London did she agree to become his mistress.
Yes, the evening was looking up, Daniel decided. Irritated with Abegail's wandering leg, he reached beneath the table and grabbed her foot, giving it a quick squeeze. She was caught off guard and yelped in an unladylike squeal, snatching her foot back immediately. Bernard looked at his young wife as if she'd gone stark raving mad, as did all the other guests. Daniel feigned surprise likewise, his barely suppressed smile aggravating Abegail as she halfheartedly mumbled an apology for her outburst. Abegail refrained from bothering Daniel any further although she certainly had no intentions of letting him get away without setting up a rendezvous sometime during his stay.
After dinner, the women retired to the drawing room and shared in the latest gossip, the men having a drink and sharing further talk of business and pleasure in the study. It seemed that men gossip disappearg">CHAPTER ed just as much as women, Daniel mused. Still, this one time it might prove to be helpful. Just as one of the men finished complaining about his meddling in-laws, Daniel chimed in. "Speaking of unwanted relatives, I have yet to meet my new stepmother. My father said she is visiting her parents here in London. I don't suppose any of you know their whereabouts, do you?"
"Can't say that I do," Bernard replied, "although I would guess that Abegail knows or could find out for you."
"No," Daniel said. "I really don't wish for anyone to pry. I just thought perhaps you might have met my father's new wife."
None of the men had, informing Daniel that his father had become a virtual recluse, only holding business meetings at Greystone, rather than traveling to London himself. None of the men there had met Percy's wife, although one young man did confess that a friend of his had encountered her and commented on what a ravishing young woman she was.
"I think her maiden name was Monroe. Her father is a viscount. Always seeming to have financial difficulties from what I hear." Random chuckles erupted at that disclosure and Daniel found it difficult to present a forced smile, for it would seem that his father's wife was indeed after Percy for his money.
"I do know of a Monroe staying not more than a few blocks from here," another of the men confided, and proceeded to give Daniel the location. "Nearly talked me into a raw business deal several months ago. Had I invested in his venture, I'd most likely be selling everything I own to pay my debts. Monroe is not one you want to trust with your life savings."
Daniel thanked the man for the information, hoping it was the same Monroe whose greedy daughter was now a part of his family. Excitement pumped through his veins as Daniel contemplated the face to face meeting he would soon have with his stepmother. He imbibed another drink of bourbon, barely hearing the remainder of the conversation at hand.
Excusing himself shortly after, Daniel apologized for leaving early. Just after Daniel exited the front door, he heard his name softly calle
d. Turning about, he saw Abegail standing there, distress showing in her dark eyes. Not wanting anyone to see her approach Daniel, yet scarcely unable to refrain from throwing herself in his arms, Abegail pleaded, "Darling, I must see you. I want you so badly. When can you meet me?"
In truth, were it not for his current he whispered harshlyed to ">CHAPTER obsession with the beautiful Revee, Daniel might have jumped at the chance for a reunion with Abegail. She’d been quite the pleasant surprise in bed. Indeed, had nearly forced him to his limits. "Abegail, I will not set up a clandestine meeting with the wife of a business associate right after dining in his home."
"That didn't bother you last year," she purred, taking a step closer to Daniel. She rubbed her arms at the cold breeze blowing, for the threat of an early winter had seemed to intrude almost overnight. Daniel's coat looked cozily inviting and Abegail longed to wrap herself inside with him.
"A year ago I barely knew Bernard."
"You knew I was married to him," Abegail rebuffed. “And we had the most incredible night together. The best I ever had,” she added breathlessly.
"I am certain we did," Daniel replied, not wishing to confess that although she’d been a spectacular lay, the night had been no more memorable than a dozen or so other women he'd fucked. "But I must leave now. Thank you for having me over tonight. I had a wonderful time." Daniel nearly laughed aloud at the confused look on Abegail’s face at his formal goodbye.
"Send for me," she insisted as Daniel turned to walk away. "I don't care when or where, just send for me. You will not regret it, darling!" Coming to her senses, Abegail turned and went back inside before any of the guests missed her. Already she anticipated the coming liaison and doubted she would have a peaceful night's rest until she was able to see Daniel again.
Abegail already forgotten, Daniel had the driver stop at the given location for the Monroes’ residence. The house was charming, if not overly large, and Daniel was glad to see it still appeared well lit, a certain sign the occupants were still up. He supposed it was nearly ten o'clock by now, not bothering to check his pocket watch, for regardless of the time, Daniel meant to see if this was the correct Monroe or not.
____________________
breathing quickenedthi
Elyssa brushed her hair again, dissatisfied with the reflection gazing back at her. Percy's hurtful words came back to mind for the hundredth time and Elyssa critiqued her appearance as she supposed Percy must see her.
Hearing the abrupt knocking at her door once again, Elyssa's lips curved upward and she figured it to be her younger sister and brothers again. Elyssa called out that she would be out shortly to say goodnight. They were enjoying her visit immensely, the same closeness they'd all shared before Elyssa had gotten married still vivid.
Her sister, Rachel, was rather quiet around Elyssa although she seemed to look up to her older sister as a kind of goddess. Being several years younger than Elyssa, Rachel was just beginning to take a genuine interest in young men. And it was obvious they were fast becoming drawn to her, for Rachel was turning out to be a veritable beauty just like her sister.
Giving Rachel the best advice she could offer, Elyssa told her she must be adamant about marrying a man of her own choosing, and not agree to an unwanted match else she would regret it forever. Rachel sensed her sister's sadness but didn't want to pry, knowing that if Elyssa wished to confide in her, she would do so.
Elyssa was grateful that the maid had a fire going, for her bedroom was large and it seemed winter had arrived unexpectedly. The coziness of the fire warmed Elyssa and she smiled contentedly as she prepared to go to bed early.
The visit with her parents was going as well as could be expected. The touch of bitterness embedded in Elyssa's heart was slowing giving way to pity, for it was clear her parents were not very bright when it came to finances. They had made the wrong choice in wedding her to Percy, but it was clear they loved their eldest child and were pleased to have Elyssa stay as long as she wanted, by their own words.
When Elyssa asked her parents why they hadn't come to Greystone for a visit, they replied that they hadn't received an invitation and assumed that their daughter was so deliriously happy she didn't have time or thought for anyone but her new husband. Unsure whether they could be that naive, or if that was just a convenient excuse, Elyssa put it behind her and decided not to confide the unhappy state of her wretched marriage.
As it turned out, Percy was correct. It had been the right thing to do, visiting her family. In fact, when her week was up in a couple more days, Elyssa might not wish to return to Greystone after all. Perhaps she would st disappearg">CHAPTER ay with her family an additional week or so. She would decide when the time came.
Setting her brush down, Elyssa donned a lavender robe to match her modest nightgown. Not bothering to wear the dainty matching slippers, Elyssa enjoyed the feel of the cold floor beneath her feet. Winter had always been her favorite season. She loved Christmastime and the hopes and dreams of the New Year. She loved the biting chill of a winter wind caressing her body, only to head to the solace of the indoors and snuggle beneath the warmth of a thick blanket.
Contentedly humming a soft tune as she cautiously made her way to the stairs, Elyssa glanced about covertly, for she knew her younger brothers were playing tag with her. The secret knock they'd signaled upon her door moments past had informed her of their intentions.
The front door downstairs was the base, and although Elyssa's mother scolded her for being so unladylike, she was nonetheless pleased to see her children having a good time together. Many was the time over the past four days that the maid or butler had gone off muttering or shaking their heads in amusement as one or more of the children came speeding past them in effort to reach the safety of the front door before their sister was able to tag them.
Halfway down the hallway, Elyssa spied her youngest brother, Noel, peeking from behind his bedroom door. Her eyes lit up and as Elyssa began to give chase, Noel's quick legs took off in front of her, his feet barely touching the floor as he barely escaped his sister’s clutches. Elyssa's laughter floated behind him and her six year old brother's steps became even more rushed.
_________________
Having gained little information from the butler, Daniel was beginning to get a bit agitated. Once more, Daniel insisted on speaking with the Viscount Monroe but was told he was out at his club for the evening. "Is this the same Viscount Monroe whose daughter recently wed the Earl Percy Fredrickson?"
"Yes, milord," the butler answered hesitantly.font-size:0.83rem; hi dow
Finally, Daniel mused inwardly, we are getting somewhere. “I need to speak with her. It is of the utmost importance."
"Whom may I say is calling?" The butler would not normally be so accommodating, but the young man seemed the dangerous sort if he didn't get what he wanted. And who was he to question the nobility? The sooner the strange man got to speak with Lady Fredrickson, the sooner he would leave.
"The name is Lord Fredrickson," Daniel replied, removing his coat. He ignored the employee’s outstretched hand and tossed it over a nearby chair, the butler departing to locate Elyssa.
His thoughts now focused, Daniel planned to be short and direct with his father's wife. He meant to frighten her into giving up whatever scheme she'd convinced his father of, would do whatever it took to destroy her devious plans. After months of dwelling on the thought that this woman was out to rob him of his rightful inheritance, Daniel already harbored a deep resentment for her. He would have to keep the bitterness hidden during their conversation, for Daniel didn't wish to let his loathing for her cloud his words.
Hearing the approaching sound of a child's excited laughter, Daniel cocked his head to better hear it. Surely he was mistaken. Wasn't it already well past time to have little brats in bed for the night? But the sound only grew stronger. A high pitched squeal erupted, the sound of small feet growing nearer as they noisily bounded down the stairs.
Elyssa was starting to g
ive chase down the staircase, nearly on Noel's heels when she saw the butler standing at the bottom of the stairs, looking more than a little distressed at her less than graceful behavior. By that time Elyssa's nine year old brother, Claude, had joined in the merriment. He craftily passed Elyssa on the far side of the stairs before she even realized he was there. Now she was in pursuit of both her brothers, halfheartedly wondering at the employee's worried expression. Just before she passed him, the butler swiftly called out, "A Lord Fredrickson to see you!"
Before his words could register, the boys were already halfway to the foyer and the solace of the front door. Determined to catch the rascals for once in her life, Elyssa's steps quickened as she gave chase toward the foyer, her laughter mingling with Noel and Claude's.
The boys' outstretched arms reached for the door and Elyssa he whispered harshlyed to ">CHAPTER 's eyes widened at the realization of what the butler had yelled out to her just a second earlier. Percy was here? Her heart fell. Whatever could he want except to personally drag her back home himself?
But before that disappointing thought had chance to take root, she saw the imposing figure step into view. Trying unsuccessfully to slow her steps, Elyssa cried out as she slid into the hardness of the male standing with his arms braced in front of himself to avoid the collision of bodies. The boys went crashing into Daniel, with Elyssa just after. Strong male arms managed to brace her by the shoulders before Elyssa was able to stumble down with her brothers. A shocked cry escaped her lips at the unexpected collision, and she temporarily forgot to be embarrassed that a visitor would be seeing her in her nightclothes, and acting so childishly besides.
She was flabbergasted to look up into the beautiful face of none other than Daniel. Her heart skipped a beat at the sight of the stormy gray eyes staring at her in confused horror. However had he found her? And how could she keep refusing him when he continued to press her so? A liquid heat infused her body at the sight of her forbidden fantasy, the feel of his hands touching her, making her wish there was nothing between his hands and her flesh. Breathlessly, unable to tear her gaze from Daniel, she told the boys, “I got you this time. You are both out."