by Lora Thomas
There were several gasps from the matriarchs and giggles from the maidens. Men could be heard mumbling their approval.
Mr. Adkins raised his hand again. “I know, it sounds highly inappropriate, but it is for the good of Eden and will help a noble soldier.”
Before another complaint could be heard, a man in the back shouted, “I bid one pound for a dance with Miss Edith Wills!”
“Two pounds!” another man shouted.
Mr. Adkins grinned. “Then, it is decided.”
Thomas groaned with displeasure. He could see Iris looking hopefully at him. He knew she fully expected him to offer a bid for her. And he would. It was for a good cause. But not yet. He wanted to wait.
“Twenty pounds for Miss Elena Paxsley!” Hawke called.
Thomas looked at his friend and smiled.
“Sold!” Mr. Adkins said.
A triumphant gleam came to Hawke’s eyes.
“Enjoy yourself,” Thomas said to his friend.
“Oh, I plan on it,” Hawke said. He left Thomas and made his way to Elena. Offering his arm to Miss Paxsley, he escorted her to the far side of the room.
Thomas allowed several more gentlemen to place their bids upon the lady of their choosing before deciding it was time. He went to open his mouth to make his bid, but a voice from the other side of the room called out.
“I bid five pounds for Miss Catrina Wilcox!”
Thomas spotted the bidder. Edward Jackson.
Catrina was standing with Mrs. Paxsley by the veranda door. Both were chatting excitedly about Lord Hawke's offering for Elena. When Catrina heard her name, her head whipped around as her eyes widened with surprise.
“Five pounds for Miss Catrina Wilcox!” she heard again.
She looked over at Edward. His eyes were upon hers like a hawk about to dive upon his prey. Thomas’s warning echoed in her mind, and she smiled nervously.
Another man countered the offer and raised the bid to six pounds.
Catrina released the breath she was holding, and her mouth went dry. She had never expected someone to bid for her! With all of the other eligible maidens present, why would they? No one knew her.
“Seven pounds,” Edward countered.
Thomas ground his back teeth together. That upstart Jackson was trying to buy the favors of Catrina.
“Ten pounds!” Artie bid.
Thomas’s head whipped around and he shot his friend a heated look. Artie gave a smug smile and raised his glass at Thomas.
Thomas would not have it! He could not allow anyone to have Catrina’s dance card but him. Before Thomas could rationalize his thoughts, he shouted, “One hundred pounds!”
Iris glanced at Thomas, and he could see her satisfied expression.
Started gasps echoed around the room at the extravagant bid.
Catrina looked to her right, spotting Thomas with Lady Iris, and disappointment filled her. He was bidding for Lady Iris. Why would she think otherwise? Until she heard…
“One hundred pounds for Miss Catrina Wilcox,” Thomas clarified.
Anger flashed from Iris’s eyes.
Artie laughed, and Hawke covered his face with his hand.
Catrina’s eyes widened in surprise.
Mr. Adkins looked at Thomas. “Did you say one hundred pounds for Miss Wilcox?” he asked, disbelief in his voice.
“Yes,” Thomas said, stepping away from his friends. “One hundred pounds for her entire dance card.”
Mr. Adkins looked around the room to see if anyone would counter the amount. When no one stepped forward, he proclaimed, “Sold! Lord Huntsley, you may collect your lady.”
“Thomas,” Iris protested, taking his arm. “Why did you bid for her?”
Thomas did not answer as he pried Iris’s fingers from his forearm. Thomas was not certain why he placed such an extravagant bid for Catrina. He just knew that he could not allow Jackson to win Catrina’s hand. As he crossed the room, he began to question his actions. He should have kept his mouth shut. Now, he must endure an entire night in the company of Branson Wilcox’s little sister, a woman who had spilled milk down his pants, broken his nose, pelted him with shells—and kissed him with passion. This was going to be a long night.
He stopped before Catrina. When he reached her, Mr. Adkins announced that the bidding was complete.
Thomas bowed before Catrina. “Miss Wilcox.”
“Lord Huntsley,” Catrina acknowledged.
He extended his arm. She placed her hand upon it and allowed him to escort her onto the dance floor. The orchestra began playing, and Thomas took the lead. The pair flowed together as though they were one. Each step was in unison. As they danced, all eyes in the room were upon them, curious as to why Lord Huntsley would pay such a handsome sum to dance with an unknown beauty. The single young ladies craned their necks to get a glimpse of the woman who had caused the roguish Thomas Summers to be exclusively hers for the night. The bachelors in the room were just as curious. What was the reason the brunette in Huntsley’s arms caused him to spend such an excessive amount? Who was she? Where was she from? Despite all the questions being whispered about, all had the same emotion…jealousy. Catrina had the women jealous, for she had Huntsley exclusively to herself for the evening. Thomas had the men jealous, for he had a stunning mystery woman in his arms.
“Who is she?” a man leaned over to Artie and ask.
“A nobody, Lord Danshire,” Iris answered before Artie had a chance. “A little tart from Swindon who thinks she is our equal.”
“You know her then?” Lord Danshire asked.
Iris shrugged. “I know all I need to know.”
“Then you know nothing,” Artie spoke. “That is Miss Catrina Wilcox. She is a guest of Mr. Paxsley’s.”
“How did she become an acquaintance of Lord Huntsley?” Danshire inquired.
“He aided her. You see, someone was about to abduct her. Huntsley came to her rescue.” Artie tipped the cup to his lips, a vindictive smile coming to his lips. Why not aid Huntsley in ridding himself of Lady Iris. “That was their first meeting, of course.”
“First meeting?” Iris snapped.
Artie nodded. “Yes. Conversations in the parlor at the hotel. Strolls upon the beach. Visiting the caves.”
“I see.” The ire in Iris’s voice was unmistakable. “And just how frequently does he encounter this Catrina Wilcox?”
“Frequently. Every day since we arrived.”
Fire flashed from Iris’s eyes as she watched Thomas and Catrina. That little tart thought she could take Thomas from her? Well, Iris would not allow that to happen. She had worked too hard to have Thomas right where she wanted…only days from him asking for her hand. She would be the next Viscountess of Huntsley! She had to be! Because of her father’s gambling habits, they were nearly destitute, and it would only be a matter of months before they would be penniless, shunned from society.
“Well, I will just have to rectify that, won’t I?”
“Good luck,” Artie needled, enjoying angering Lady Iris.
“What is that supposed to mean, Mr. Heath?”
“Thomas is the Viscount of Huntsley. He is neither married nor openly courting anyone in particular. You may say that you will try to rectify his actions, but you do not have the right to do so.”
“I do not have that right?!” Iris screeched. “I will have you know, I have every right! For the past year, I have done nothing but devote my time to Thomas. He comes to visit me regularly. We are seen openly together at fetes and plays. We are seen riding at Hyde Park and picnicking with others. I believe I have every right.”
“That is your opinion. But I am here to tell you that that is not Huntsley’s.”
“Listen well, Mr. Heath. Thomas is mine.”
“Has he asked for your hand?” Artie asked with knowing.
“Not yet,” Iris spat. “But it is only a matter of time.”
“I would not hold my breath. Now, please excuse me, Lady Iris.” Artie gave a sligh
t bow and left.
Iris clenched her fingers into a tight fist as her gaze landed back on her rival. Catrina Wilcox. If it were the last thing Iris did, she would make certain Catrina’s life was a living hell. That little strumpet would rue the day that she became acquainted with Thomas Summers!
Chapter Eleven
Catrina could not keep the smile from her face. For the entire night, Thomas danced with her. He told her tales of his escapades with Mr. Heath and Lord Hawke. He spoke of his father and of his business endeavors in the Caribbean. And twice, he slipped her outside where they kissed again. As Catrina drifted off to sleep, a contented sigh left her.
When she awoke the next morning, she could not contain her excitement. Victoria had a full day planned for them. They were to have an early lunch in the center courtyard of the hotel then play croquet. After the game, they were to go sea bathing and then a formal dinner at the hotel with Mr. Ingram and several distinguished guests.
“You are all smiles,” Elena said, pulling on her shoes, a knowing smile on her lips. “Am I to assume the reason is your dance partner?”
A blush crept over Catrina’s face. “I do not know to whom you are referring.”
“Come now. You and Lord Huntsley were the talk of the ball! After that extravagant bid he placed just for you. Why, everyone was speculating on the reason.”
“It was nothing,” Catrina spoke, adjusting one of her brown locks with a pin.
“Nothing? Mother said Lady Iris was livid.”
“She was?” Catrina said with a cringe.
“Why should you care?” Elena said, standing.
“I do not want to create hardship for Lord Huntsley and Lady Iris. We both know that nothing can ever come of Lord Huntsley and me.”
Elena snorted. “Where is your fighting spirit?!”
“Elle, you know that when my brother returns to London, I will be forced to return to Swindon and a husband I do not know.”
“But we are not in Swindon now. We are in Eden.” A wicked gleam came to Elena’s brown eyes. “Why not have a little fun in the meantime?”
“What are you suggesting?” Catrina asked in horror, already knowing Elena’s response.
“Spend some enjoyable time with Lord Huntsley.”
Catrina shook her head with uncertainty. “I cannot do that, Elle. I cannot ruin Lady Iris’s chances of marriage with Lord Huntsley so that I can have a bit of merriment.”
“His reputation is known. It has not dissuaded Lady Iris’s pursuit of him, and your association with him will not either. She knows he is a rogue. She knows he will never be faithful to her.”
“Then, why does she pursue him?”
Elena shrugged. “Bea—”
“Beatrice knows,” Catrina finished, with a derisive snort.
“She does. And when we return to London in a few weeks, I will make certain that the three of us have an in-depth conversation about Lord Huntsley. Now, how do I look?” Elena twirled.
“Lovely as always. Why?”
A saucy smile came to Elena. “Ya never know when a certain baron might make an appearance.”
“Has he said as much?” Catrina inquired.
Elena shook her head. “No. But he does like spontaneity.”
“I did not get a chance to ask you last night, but did you enjoy your time with Lord Hawke?”
A dreamlike expression came to Elena as she clasped her hands together and brought them to her chest. “He is simply wonderful, Catrina. He has promised to call upon me when we return to London.”
Catrina’s smile belied her feelings. She was happy for her friend and somewhat jealous. Actually, a great deal jealous. Why did life have to treat her so unfairly? First, her parents’ deaths, then an uncaring brother, and now an upcoming loveless marriage.
“I am happy for you, Elena.”
Elena beamed. “Thank you.”
“Girls! Are you ready?” Victoria called from the adjacent room.
“Coming, Mother!” Elena replied. “Come on, Catrina.”
The pair made their way to Victoria’s chambers and out the door.
“I swear, I will never remember how to get back to our room,” Catrina said, looking around the hallway.
“You say that every time,” Elena countered. “And yet, you do.”
“I only do because you are with me.”
“I swear, Cat, how have you managed your life without me?” Elena laughed.
Catrina joined her. “I do not know, Elle.”
On the ground floor, the trio entered the center courtyard. It was lovely with a variety of colorful flowers and flowering trees. Tables were scattered about the yard along with birdbaths and stone benches.
“It is lovely,” Victoria said.
They made their way to a table in the center. The sun shone down upon them, and Catrina turned her face to the warmth.
“I have taken the liberty of already ordering our meal,” Victoria said.
“Thank you,” Catrina answered.
A servant placed a pot of tea in the center of the table along with three cups. After pouring the drinks, the servant left.
Victoria picked up her cup. “I have something I want to discuss with you, girls.”
“What is it, Mother?” Elena asked, placing a cube of sugar in her cup.
“I know you are having a grand time, but be warned. Sometimes the men that visit these places have less than honorable intentions.”
Elena narrowed her eyes. “Are you saying Lord Hawke has other intentions?”
“No. I am just warning you that men like young Hawke will make promises they do not intend to keep.”
“Mother!” Elena screeched. “Lord Hawke is a kind, noble gentleman.”
“Not so loud, Elena,” Victoria scolded. “I know all about Lord Hawke and his associations.” She shot a knowing look at Catrina. “They have reputations as rakes and rogues. I do not want either of you to fall victim to their flowery words. Men like Lord Hawke and Lord Huntsley will break your hearts and leave you a shallow, empty shell. They will leave your reputations in shambles and move on to their next conquests.”
“Are you forbidding me to see Lord Hawke?” Elena growled. Her eyes flashed, preparing to do battle with her mother.
“No. You are too strong-willed for me to do that. Even if I did, you would see him just to spite me. All I am saying is that you need to be wary of this path you are traversing. Do not let their harmless flirtations persuade you into doing something that you know is wrong. Do not believe their promises. I love you both and do not want to see either of you hurt.”
“I understand,” Catrina said.
“I do not,” Elena argued. “Lord Hawke is a good man—”
“With a sordid reputation, Elena,” Victoria said with sternness. “He is known for sowing his wild oats.” She looked at Catrina. “Both men are. Lord Huntsley has had several mistresses.” She looked back at Elena. “Lord Hawke frequents brothels and gaming hells with Mr. Heath. Men like that are acceptable to dance with, not to set your sights for.”
Elena opened her mouth to argue but was stopped by her mother.
“You are just as strong-willed as your father. I am not forbidding you to see young Hawke. I am not forbidding you to take walks or dance with him. I am simply warning you. When you both have children of your own, you will understand my worry.” Victoria took both Elena’s and Catrina’s hands. “I worry for you both.” Giving Catrina’s hand a squeeze, she spoke to her. “You do not have a mother to warn you against these things.” She looked at Elena. “And you do not have the good sense to heed my warnings. Just look out for each other. I love you both and do not want either of you to get hurt by men who only want to sow their wild oats.”
“Mrs. Paxsley. Miss Paxsley. How wonderful to see you this fine morning.”
Catrina pulled her eyes away from Victoria and spotted Iris Parker.
Iris had her chin raised, glaring down her nose superciliously at Catrina, an icy veneer to
her tone. “Miss Wilcox.”
“Lady Iris,” Victoria acknowledged the younger woman. She looked at the lady beside Iris. “Countess Mortimer. Won’t you please join us?”
The countess opened her mouth to decline, but her daughter spoke, “We would be delighted.”
Iris sat down with all the pomp and show she possessed, a triumphant gleam in her cold blue eyes. She had won. It was only a matter of timing. When should she tell her rival of the conversation she had this morning with Thomas? The timing had to be perfect to cause the most detriment—the harshest of blows.
A servant rushed forward and placed cups and saucers in front of Iris and her mother. A few moments later, another approached with bowls of soup and bite-sized pieces of bread.
“How are you enjoying Eden, Countess?” Victoria asked.
The Countess of Mortimer placed her cup back upon the saucer. “It is lovely. Not nearly as grand as Brighton. Mr. Adkins still yet has a great deal of work if he wants to compete with Brighton.”
“He is trying,” Victoria said. “Last night was the first grand event. He has the dinner tonight, a horse race scheduled for this weekend, and a regalia for the following week. It takes time.”
The Countess sniffed with haughty airs. “Still not quite enough.” She turned to her daughter. “Why did you want to come here again, Iris?”
Iris forced a smile to come to her lips. “To see if all the huff and bother were true.” She turned her predatory gaze to Catrina. The lie rolled smoothly from her lips. “Thomas spoke of it before leaving London. His acquaintance, Mr. Heath, is a primary investor. Mr. Heath has asked Thomas to invest. Thomas wanted to see if Eden was worth his time and money, so he decided to visit and extended an invitation to me.”
“Have you enjoyed sea bathing yet, Lady Iris?” Elena snipped. She saw the way Iris was taunting Catrina by using Thomas, and she would not allow it.
Iris picked up her teacup and sipped. With boredom, she spoke, “Not yet. I have yet to see the benefit of dousing one’s self into cold salty water.”
“I find it rather invigorating,” Catrina spoke, a bit of sass in her tone. “Of course, people from the country have rather strong constitutions…compared to others.”