The Sweetest Touch

by Marie Higgins

  “Trevor,” she sighed and closed her eyes.

  She looked so lovely with a happy expression and tears streaking down her cheeks…and full lips just waiting to be kissed long and hard. How he wanted to do that and nothing else for the rest of his life. Seeing the happiness radiating from her face made his heart heavy with an emotion he was not ready to analyze.

  “Thank you,” she said again softly, looking at him. “Thank you for believing in me.”

  “How can I not believe in you, my dear? Since I brought you to my home, you have showed me—and the others—what a wonderful, caring person you really are. Your actions do not lie when they are done selflessly.” He brushed away a few more tears.

  “No, Trevor. You are the one who is so wonderful…so giving.” She lifted a hand and cupped his face. “I love your generous heart. I love your kind spirit. I love…”

  His heart skipped a beat, wanting to know—praying to know—if she felt the same. “You love… what?”

  She took a deep breath. “God help me, but I cannot stop myself from falling in love with you, Trevor.”

  Happiness burst in his chest. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her to him as he captured her mouth with his, which she met with urgency. Love blossomed inside him, and as much as he fought it, he enjoyed the newfound feeling. Not once during his marriage to Gwen had he felt such a glorious emotion that made him want to jump for joy and cheer for everyone to hear.

  Still, he didn’t dare admit aloud he returned her love—didn’t dare hope for fear this new feeling would be snatched away from him like most things in his life that he’d cared for.

  Keeping her in his arms, he lowered them to the sofa as he continued to kiss her. He angled them against the cushions more comfortably while he told her with his mouth and hands how he felt. He stroked her back, arms, and neck, knowing if she didn’t stop him soon, he might never stop. Yet, as she touched him—so sweet, so loving—he knew she would not be the first one to stop.

  Once again, passion was in control. He didn’t mind, not really, yet he knew if they continued, he’d certainly want to take things farther. He couldn’t. She was a mere servant, and until he knew her parentage, he couldn’t make love to her no matter how much he wanted to.

  As he slowed the kiss, he stroked her hair and neck, then trailed his lips down her slender throat. She arched, making it easier access. Skin so soft and tantalizing was an addiction to his lips.

  When he grudgingly pulled away, her eyes flitted open and her stare met his. He hadn’t realized until now that he’d pushed her back to where she nearly laid beneath him on the sofa. And how could he forget she was in her nightrail and wrapper?

  Smiling, she swiped back the hair that had fallen over his forehead. More than anything, he wanted to gaze into her lovely eyes so full of passion and feel her tender, sweet touch…forever.

  “My dearest Louisa, I do believe we should stop for now. Don’t you?”

  Dazed and breathless, she nodded. “Indeed, I think you are correct.”

  “I’m very relieved you came to see me tonight. I fear I had been in turmoil since our outing, and I didn’t know what to do.” He kissed her lips again, but briefly. “You have eased my mind considerably, and I can now sleep peacefully. And happily.”

  “As can I.”

  Although he didn’t want to move away from the soft comfort of her body cuddled so close to his, he forced himself to stand. She took his hand and lifted herself off the sofa until she stood in front of him.

  “Good night, my wonderful, sweet man.” She smiled.

  “And sleep tight, my lovely lady.” He kissed her one last time before walking her to the door. From that point, he watched her leave down the hall, her nightrail and wrapper swishing against her legs. He longed for the time she would regain her memory so he would know exactly how to act around her…and whether or not to fully give her his heart.

  * * * *

  Louisa couldn’t believe the good fortune that had fallen at her feet of late. Thankfully, she didn’t recall a lot about her past, but her life was finally happy. Complete. If she never regained her memory, she would be satisfied with that…as long as Trevor and the twins were forever in her life.

  Perhaps she shouldn’t have told him she loved him last night, but she couldn’t stop the words from flowing. She did love him, and she’d never experienced such an emotion before—that she knew about, anyway. Yet her heart told her this was the first time.

  Today when she played with the children outside, Trevor joined them. Louisa made up silly little games, which made everyone laugh. She noticed that some of the servants stepped out of the house—or from the stables—to watch. Wide smiles stretched across their face, which lightened Louisa’s heart. Acceptance finally filled her soul as it never had before.

  She loved the closeness she shared with Trevor, and it made her feel like she finally had a family. Her heart sank a fraction of an inch. She did love Trevor and his children, but…would he ever want to marry someone like her? Would he ever want the children to have a mother who had been a thief?

  Hopefully, he wouldn’t judge her for her past mistakes and love her and want her to be in his life as his wife.

  After they ate the mid-day meal and the twins took a nap, Trevor surprised them all by announcing another trip into Town. Today they rode in the landau, but closed the top. This time, Louisa didn’t experience the judgmental stares as she had before. Trevor and the children played little games during their drive, and it did her heart glad to see Trevor bonding so closely with the children.

  When the vehicle stopped in front of Astley’s Amphitheatre, Louisa’s heart leap. The New Royal Circus was in town.

  In a flash, a memory sprang forward. She remembered holding her mother’s hand as she and an older cousin excitedly chattered about the circus while walking toward the structure. Louisa was probably in her seventh or eighth year, yet the memory was so clear. The steps separating her from the circus were many and her mother practically had to run beside Louisa to keep up the pace. Music played. Children cheered. Merchants sold pastries and other tasty treats for the children.

  Louisa drew in a deep breath and placed her hand on Trevor’s arm before he exited the landau. When his eyes met hers, she smiled. “I have been here before.”

  His eyebrows lifted in surprise. “You remember?”

  “Yes. I was young. My parents brought me and my older cousin here.”

  Trevor swung toward her and grasped her gloved hands. “You remember having a cousin?”

  She nodded. “I can picture them right now…like it was yesterday.” Excitement hammered in her chest and she tightened her fingers with his. “Trevor, I can vision my parents. Papa was dressed in the same fashion as you, and my mother was adorned in a lovely lavender day-dress. My cousin was about to enter Eton.”

  A rush of air escaped his mouth mere moments before he brought her hands to his lips and kissed. “This is a wonderful discovery, Louisa.”

  “I think so. The more I remember my past, the more I think my parents were indeed of Quality.”

  “I’m sure they were, my dear.”

  Trevor climbed down then helped Louisa and the twins. She held on to the twins’ hands as they made their way toward the building. Groups of people littered the street and on the stairs. Louisa glanced from one to the other, taking in as many faces as she could, hoping to find some recognition. Instead, everyone looked like a stranger. Were her parents and cousin still alive? Then again, she doubted they were since she had to resort to thieving just to eat. Still, she prayed there was some extended family out there to whom she could find.

  The closer she came to the building, a strange—almost eerie—feeling rushed over her like a dark cloud of doom. Someone watched her, she could feel it, but there were too many people for her to see which one could be keeping an eye on her. Perhaps her mind played tricks on her or her memory. Had something bad happened a long time ago when she was here last?


  Putting aside the uncomfortable feelings, she followed Trevor inside the building.

  * * * *

  My, my…what do we have here?

  A malicious grin tugged on Macgregor’s mouth as he watched Louisa scurry inside, holding on to two little children. If David hadn’t told Macgregor about the little twit living with Lord Kensington, Richard wouldn’t have taken a second glance when he saw the lord climbing out of his landau. And Richard certainly wouldn’t have studied the nursemaid closely to see if this was his long-lost pupil, either.

  Richard chuckled low as he filled his pipe. He slid the end into his mouth, lit it, and inhaled the tobacco. Louisa no longer looked like the little ragamuffin he’d taken under his wing all those years ago, but instead like a real lady—even wearing nice clothes. He didn’t know if the woman had been compromised, and to find out, he’d have to study her and the duke a little closer. Richard wouldn’t waste his time thinking of another way for the girl to make him money until he knew for certain.

  Taking slow steps, he stayed behind a group of nobleman and their wives as they strolled toward the amphitheatre. Merchants tried to sway him into purchasing their wares, but Richard flipped his hand in the air, silently dismissing them. This evening, his mind would be on one thing. He wouldn’t rest until he understood what Louisa was doing.

  Once inside, he scanned the seats, looking for her. It took him a few minutes with as many people who were in his way, but he finally caught sight of her sitting prim and proper next to the duke and his children. Richard hurried toward them, but kept far enough away so she wouldn’t see him. He found a seat that would be perfect while spying. If she kept her gaze on the stage—which he supposed she would due to the entertainment—she would never know he was here. Watching. Waiting for the right moment to pounce like a tiger on its prey.

  The show began, and Louisa’s eyes danced nearly as much as the children who sat by her. Richard snickered. Although she had a woman’s body, right now she appeared much younger by the way she laughed and clapped. But of course she’d react this way. Her childhood had been snatched away when Featherspoon kidnapped her then sold her.

  Richard had never seen her look so happy, but it didn’t matter. He needed her back. Now. The children he had working for him didn’t bring in as much as Louisa had. Yet, as he watched her with the duke and his children as if they were the most important people in England, Richard understood that getting her back into his fold would be more difficult than he’d planned. She was now a grown woman and had tasted her independence if only for a short time. Naturally, she’d fight him, but he must not allow her to win.

  Forcing her was an option, but the little tart was a handful when upset…and upset she would be when he finally brought her back to his house. Things would be different after that. She would not have any ambition to steal for him, even if he threatened to turn her into an older gent’s mistress. No, Richard had to think of another means of convincing Louisa to do his bidding. But what?

  A cheer rose through the crowd, startling Richard. He glanced at the stage just in time to see the lion tamer pull his head from the lion’s mouth—unharmed. Richard switched his attention back to Louisa and the duke’s children who were now jumping in their seats, clapping. Louisa hugged each one, her eyes glistening with tenderness. When she looked at the duke, a different expression lightened her face. Indeed, the girl was in love. Richard shrugged. Regardless, that would end shortly if he had anything to do with it. And of course, he would have everything to do with it when she came back.

  Suddenly, an idea jolted through him, almost knocking him from his seat. He hitched a breath as his mind swirled quickly to formulate a plan. Now he knew how to make Miss Hamilton bend to his will. Blackmail. Obviously, she loved those children and the duke. If she wanted to spare their lives, she would obey Richard and jump when he snapped his fingers.

  Ease spread through him, relaxing his worry. He would have her in his grasp very soon.

  Louisa leaned over and chatted with the duke for a few moments before the gent dropped some coins in her hand. She stood and sauntered toward the back of the building by the merchants.

  Excitement grew inside Richard as he quickly followed, pushing people aside so he wouldn’t lose her. Finally, he closed in behind her. He shoved a few people out of his way who tossed scowls at him.

  Louisa purchased a bag of roasted nuts, and then turned to leave. Richard blocked her path.

  “Please forgive me—” she said before her eyes lifted to his.

  “Good evenin’, my dear Louisa Hamilton. What a pleasure it is to see ye after all this time.” He grinned. “Did ye miss me?”

  Her eyes widened, and her face paled. The bag of peanuts fell to the ground.

  Chapter Fifteen

  A numbing coolness spread through Louisa as if she stood up to her neck in frigid waters. It was disconcerting to feel this way when she knew she wasn’t even close to a pond, but in a crowded building where people closed in all around her. All sounds disappeared and all she could hear was the man’s voice in front of her. His dark, beady eyes pierced right through to her soul, and havoc trembled in her head. Her mind spun out of control, and she feared if she closed her eyes she would fall to the ground in an unconscious heap.

  Loud voices from her past nagged at her, pulling her deeper into the recesses of her memory. She knew this man. Knew how he treated his friends—and especially the children who worked for him. Knew his forms of punishments if he didn’t approve of what the children brought in from their daily working routines.

  Richard Macgregor!

  In a rush, she recalled being with him in a room, begging for him to stop whipping her. On her knees, she’d clutched his over-coat, pleading with him for forgiveness. Again. Just like the several times before.

  Horrified, she now remembered that he hadn’t listened to her pleas. Instead, he allowed his anger to guide his hand as he brought down the leather whip across her bare back….

  A low chuckle came from his throat, bringing her from her nightmare. “I see ye didn’t miss me at all, Louisa. That makes me sad.”

  Shivers of disgust clawed through her and she wanted to gag. Although she remembered more about her past, there was still quite a bit she didn’t know. But from the images that wouldn’t leave her mind now, it was no wonder she had hid them away.

  “Macgregor,” she whispered.

  “In the flesh.” He mocked a bow. “And my dear Louisa, ye have come up in the world, I see.” His gaze swept over her. “I must admit ye look more like a lady now than ye did before.”

  Trembling, she nodded. “I—I am no longer a thief.”

  “Yes, I see that.” He motioned his head back toward the stage. “I’m very surprised to see ye with a duke, however.” Macgregor leaned in closer. “Does he know about yer past?”

  Tears stung Louisa’s eyes, but she refused to shed them, even as frightened as this man made her. “Yes, he knows.”

  He arched a bushy eyebrow. “And he’s still keepin’ ye on as his servant?”

  “Yes.”

  “Hmm… What a very trustin’ fellow, don’t ye agree?”

  “Indeed, he is.”

  “And I suppose he’s a very generous man.”

  She nodded as fear grew inside her. By the evil glint in this man’s eyes, what he had in store for her was something she would not like. There was no way Macgregor could make her return to his den of thieves, but…his mind was plotting. She knew it, yet couldn’t stop it.

  Swallowing the lump in her throat, she took a deep breath, preparing to move past him. “If you will excuse me, I must get back—”

  He blocked her with his arm. “One minute, I beg of ye.” The corners of his mouth lifted in an evil sneer. “I suppose ye are enjoyin’ yer position in the duke’s household and that ye enjoy carin’ for his children.”

  Louisa scowled. “We have no more to discuss, Macgregor. I’m no longer in your employ. I’m a grown woman and have found an
other home. Please leave me alone.” She marched past him, but he grasped her elbow, stopping her once again.

  “Before ye leave,” he said, his voice nearly growling, “there is one thing I need ye to do for me before I consider ye out of my employ.”

  “Impossible. I will not do anything for you ever again.” She ground out each word all the while fear pumped through her blood. This man was dangerous. Although she couldn’t recall everything about him, she did know he was not a man who could be trusted.

  “Oh, I think ye will, Miss Louisa.” He leaned closer. “The Dowager Duchess of Kensington is filthy rich. On the occasions I’ve had the privilege to see her, I’ve noticed how she flaunts her jewelry. All I want is some of those jewels.”

  Louisa gasped and yanked her arm away. “If you think I’ll lower myself to steal from that wonderful lady, think again.”

  “You will, especially if ye have a care for the safety of her grandchildren.”

  Fright immobilized Louisa. Even her mind refused to think of a way to get out of this situation. How dare he threaten to harm those adorable children. By refusing him, she would put the twins in danger.

  “And if ye even think to tell the duke, I will harm him as well. In fact,” Macgregor scratched his ear, “the duke might be the first one I hurt.”

  Panicked, she pulled on his sleeve. Tears pricked her eyes. “No. You cannot hurt them. They have done nothing to you.”

  “Louisa, my dear, all I’m asking for is a couple of necklaces.”

  Dread of the worst kind spread through her, knowing there was only one decision to make. “That is all?”

  “Of course. A few of her necklaces and broaches will be worth much. But make certain these necklaces are decorated with colorful gems. I want only the best.” He stroked his fingers down her cheek. “And I know ye can tell which ones will be more expensive.”

  “Yes, I can,” she muttered.

  “That’s my girl. Do this one last thing for me and I shall never bother ye again.”

  Louisa didn’t dare ask him to give her his word, only because she didn’t trust him to stick to his promise. “How soon do you want me to do this?”