Ruse & Romance (The Beaucroft Girls Book 1)

by Rogers, Suzanne G.

  Mrs. Beaucroft and Juliet hastened into the room.

  “Ivy, are you unwell?” Mrs. Beaucroft exclaimed.

  “I had a turn for a moment, but Kitty has set my mind at ease by confessing the truth about this ridiculous betrothal.”

  “Now you must promise me faithfully to play along as if the engagement is real,” Kitty said.

  The older woman beamed. “Oh, yes, I can do that. It wouldn’t be the first time in this family I’ve pretended to be happy about an engagement.”

  Kitty and Juliet exchanged a surreptitious, amused glance. Their father was Ivy’s only child, so there was only one engagement to which she could be referring. Mrs. Beaucroft, who had apparently caught Ivy’s meaning full well, narrowed her eyes. “I’ll have the maids make up your room and set another place for lunch.”

  “My son is at his club, I imagine? Good, it’ll be just us ladies.”

  “I hope you brought some evening gowns, Ivy.” Mrs. Beaucroft’s voice was icily polite. “We’re to attend Lady Lovejoy’s ball tonight.”

  “I believe my maid packed all manner of gowns, but I wouldn’t dream of attending the ball. I can’t abide uninvited guests, and I’m certain Lady Lovejoy feels the same.” Ivy turned her attention to Juliet. “How have you been enjoying London, dear?”

  “For the most part, it’s been wonderful. I mean, I was horribly nervous at court when I was presented to Her Majesty. But everyone has been lovely, and I’ve had a marvelous time.”

  “She led off the dancing at the Trestlebury ball,” Kitty said. “Juliet has been much admired.”

  “I’m so happy to hear it. It’s always difficult being a younger sister, and even more so when the elder sister is a famous beauty. People always have the unfortunate tendency to compare.”

  The carriage ride to Lady Lovejoy’s mansion wasn’t overly long, so Kitty savored every moment she had alone with Philip. She’d asked Juliet if she wanted to come along, but her sister had demurred. Since her sister had been slightly out of sorts of late, Kitty was secretly relieved.

  “Do you know, this is my first time alone in a carriage with a man who isn’t a relative,” she said. “Mama is fit to be tied about it, but there’s nothing she can do. I daresay she’s in the carriage behind us, urging the driver to go faster.”

  “She doesn’t like me?”

  “Please don’t be offended. It’s nothing personal.”

  His smile was sardonic. “I understand completely. I’m unsuitable for a girl like you.”

  Her eyes widened. “I’m sorry, Philip. I didn’t mean—”

  “Don’t give it another thought. My parents told me precisely the same thing when they tried to persuade me to break things off. You’ll meet them at the ball tonight. They came to town on the morning train.”

  A moment of panic. “If I’d known I was to meet your parents, I would have worn a more modest gown!”

  A chuckle. “Perish the thought. You’re perfect just as you are, and I’m quite looking forward to the view.”

  Although she flushed with pleasure at his comment, Kitty tapped his knee with her fan as punishment. “Naughty lad. As it turns out, my grandmother came to town today as well.”

  “Came to register her objections, did she?”

  “I’m afraid so. Grandmama is a trifle difficult to please. Fortunately, she won’t be at the ball tonight.”

  “I can breathe a little easier, then.”

  Heads turned and tongues wagged when they entered Lady Lovejoy’s home a short time later. Kitty handed off her cape to a servant and turned toward Philip to take his arm. His gaze glided over her face and figure with admiration, and for once she reveled in the display of her décolletage.

  “You really are blindingly beautiful this evening,” he said. “Am I allowed to say so?”

  “I would be devastated if you didn’t.”

  In the receiving line, Kitty introduced Philip to Lady Lovejoy, a widowed matron with sharp eyes and a strong jaw.

  “Lord Philip, your cousin Eve is a dear friend of mine.” She smiled at Kitty. “I shall count upon receiving an invitation to your wedding.”

  Kitty gulped. Lady Lovejoy was in the very upper echelons of society, and to have her attend one’s wedding was a major triumph.

  “W-Why, thank you,” she managed.

  As she and Philip made their way into the ballroom, Kitty gave his arm an excited squeeze. “What an honor!”

  His quizzical glance reminded her there was to be no wedding.

  “I’m sorry. I’ve been so caught up in our ruse, I’m forgetting it’s a game,” she said.

  “It’s all right if you’re enjoying it. I’m enjoying it, too.”

  “It occurs to me there shall eventually be negative consequences to our present course of action. Your cousins and Lady Lovejoy will resent me for throwing you over.”

  “I won’t let them say a word against you. The more I think about it, I should be the jilt.”

  “I couldn’t let you do that.”

  “You can and you shall.”

  “Oh, Philip, you’re so wonderful. Lean down so I can kiss your cheek…quickly while no one is looking.”

  She deposited the kiss.

  “You’re such a flirt,” he teased.

  A giggle. “I had planned to introduce you to your next fiancée, but I’m not sure any of my acquaintances are good enough for you.”

  “Remember, I’m not inclined to marry at all.”

  “We can’t have that.”

  “Once I’ve made my fortune, I daresay I’ll be an infinitely better catch. If I marry, it will be to a woman who is proud to call herself my wife, not one who wishes she could have done better.”

  “Philip, not every girl is like Miss Haver.”

  He flinched. “How do you know about her?”

  “She mentioned something about you to Juliet.”

  “Lovely.”

  Gryphon’s snide, familiar voice interrupted their conversation. “Well, if it isn’t the happy couple.”

  He’d paused a few feet away, with Violet Haver on his arm. The sour look on Gryphon’s face made it appear he’d eaten something unpleasant off one of the trays of appetizers being passed around by the servants. Violet, on the other hand, was simpering at Gryphon in a sticky sweet and clearly besotted fashion. Kitty had to force herself not to physically recoil.

  “Zachary and I may soon be announcing our own engagement,” Miss Haver said.

  Gryphon frowned. “Violet, I daresay you’ve overshot the mark.”

  “I think you should follow through, Gryphon,” Philip said. “I’ve rarely seen two people more suited to one another as you and Miss Haver.”

  He steered Kitty away.

  “That was a perfectly dreadful thing for you to say,” she whispered.

  “You disagree?”

  “You misunderstand me. I meant it as a compliment.”

  The look of irritation on Lord Gryphon’s face alarmed Violet. “I’m sorry if I spoke out of turn,” she said. “I just assumed you wouldn’t mind.”

  “You were wrong.”

  They watched Kitty and Philip circulate through the crowd, greeting friends and responding to congratulations in an ebullient manner.

  “They’re making an absolute spectacle of themselves,” Violet said. “Furthermore, Miss Beaucroft’s gown would be better suited to a tart. I can’t believe she’s lowering herself to marry someone as poor as Lord Philip Butler.”

  “Don’t be ridiculous. No marriage will ever take place, I can assure you. They’ve come together temporarily only to save their respective reputations.”

  “What?”

  “I’ve no proof just yet, but the notion she’d agree to marry a man of no consequence defies common sense.”

  “Perhaps she’s attracted to him. He is handsome.”

  Gryphon’s cool glance prompted a correction.

  “But not nearly as handsome as you are.”

  “You’re friendly with M
iss Beaucroft’s sister. If you wish to prove your devotion to me, you’ll obtain confirmation from Miss Juliet that her sister’s arrangement with Butler is a ruse.”

  “What do you intend to do with the information?”

  “Expose them, of course. Butler and Miss Beaucroft may think they’ve made a fool of me, but they won’t get away with it.”

  “You understand you’ll be responsible for besmirching their families, don’t you?”

  “You care more about them than you do for me?”

  “Why no, but I’m rather fond of Juliet.”

  She focused on her friend, who was studying her dance card several yards off. Gryphon followed her gaze.

  “There she is now. If you wish to marry me, don’t return until you’ve managed it.”

  He was deadly serious, and she realized she had no choice. None at all.

  “I’ll manage it.”

  A welcoming smile accompanied Violet as she glided across the floor. “I’m so glad you’ve arrived, Juliet!”

  She bestowed air kisses on both of Juliet’s cheeks.

  “Hello, Violet. You’re absolutely glowing!”

  “You’re too kind. Your gown is simply splendid, and I’m not sure you’ve ever looked better.”

  “Thank you! For once I managed to arrive at a ball without creasing my skirt. Lord Philip brought Kitty here in a separate carriage, you see, so I had a whole seat to myself.”

  “Much excitement has happened lately, hasn’t it?”

  “Indeed, events were altogether too exciting for a time, but it has worked out for the best.”

  “For others, perhaps, but I’m not so sure it’s worked out well for you.”

  “What do you mean?”

  “Your first Season has been ruined by your sister!”

  “Ruined?” Juliet frowned. “That’s an exaggeration, don’t you agree?”

  “Not in the least! Her engagement is all anyone will talk of for months, and it’s unfair. Really, Juliet, you’re a saint. You’re constantly being overshadowed, and I can’t see how you put up with her.”

  “It is hard sometimes, but I don’t believe Kitty means to outshine me on purpose.”

  Violet made a sound of disgust. “I have no trouble believing it whatsoever. At any rate, we’ve got to find a way to turn things around for you, or you’ll be pushed to the back of the bin.”

  “Kitty is quitting London in a few weeks. When she’s gone, my social schedule will no longer be disrupted.”

  “Come with me. I must tell you something in confidence.” Violet tugged Juliet by the hand until they reached a private corner. “Lord Gryphon maintains it was your sister who lured him out to the garden. She begged him to propose to her, and when he refused, she struck him. That’s when Lord Philip stumbled onto the situation and misinterpreted everything.”

  Juliet appeared to be nonplussed. “But originally, Lord Gryphon claimed to have seen Lord Philip take liberties. Why would he invent such a story?”

  “To protect your sister’s reputation, of course! She already has a reputation for being a flirt. If everyone knew she’d thrown herself at Lord Gryphon, she would have been undone.”

  “My sister wouldn’t lie to me about it, Violet. I saw the bruises on her wrists.”

  “Bruises she sustained when Lord Gryphon tried to prevent her from striking him again.”

  “That’s silly.”

  “I’m just relating what I heard.” Violet projected innocence. “Between you and me, I believe Lord Philip is a fortune hunter.”

  “You characterize the man unfairly.”

  “Lord Gryphon knows him from Oxford and says he talked constantly of marrying an heiress someday.”

  “That’s not so!”

  “Lord Moregate gives Lord Philip only a meager allowance, and the real reason he wants to marry your sister is for her dowry.”

  “That can’t be true because he’s not going to marry her at all!” Juliet bit her lip.

  Violet cocked her head. “The engagement has been broken off?”

  “No, Kitty and Lord Philip are still engaged. Er…what I meant to say is that he’s not going to marry her right away.”

  “Aha…I think I understand now. To silence the scandal with Lord Gryphon, they agreed to become engaged for a short while with no intention of actually marrying. My goodness, what a calculated ploy!”

  “I didn’t say that!”

  “You don’t have to, Juliet. I understand your loyalty to your sister, but if people knew the truth, they’d be livid. Nobody likes to be played for a fool.”

  “You’ve misunderstood me! I misspoke myself because you were maligning Lord Philip’s character. He’s a very decent, honorable gentleman.”

  A smile. “I’m sure he makes a wonderful imaginary future brother-in-law.”

  “Don’t tease, Violet. You must promise not to repeat that ridiculous story to anyone.”

  “Don’t worry, your secret is safe.” She stifled a giggle. “Oh, there’s Lady Lovejoy! If you’ll excuse me, I must go thank her once again for inviting me.”

  Chapter Six

  Intrigues and Machinations

  AFTER HIS PARENTS ARRIVED at the ball, Philip escorted Kitty over to introduce her.

  “This must be the famous Miss Beaucroft,” Moregate said. “The reports of your beauty have not been exaggerated.”

  “And yet she is even more beautiful inside than out,” Philip said.

  “Thank you both! The gentlemen in the Butler family are indeed generous with their compliments,” Kitty said.

  Philip turned his attention to his mother. “Kitty, allow me to introduce my mother, Lady Moregate.”

  The two women curtsied to one another.

  “It’s an honor to meet you,” Kitty said.

  “I’m curious, after such a short acquaintance, why you’ve agreed to marry my youngest son,” Lady Moregate said.

  “Mother,” Philip said, warningly.

  “It’s all right, Philip,” Kitty said. “Lady Moregate, from the moment I met him, Philip has continued to demonstrate the kindest and most gentlemanly behavior I’ve ever witnessed. He’s truly a gem, and I’m grateful he feels even the slightest esteem for me.”

  Philip fought to keep his countenance. The praise was so effusive, he was certain his mother would see right through it. Lady Moregate seemed taken aback, however, and responded with a smile.

  “He is kind, and admittedly the more handsome of my two sons. Still, I caution you to think long and hard about marriage to Philip. Strong unions have been torn asunder by lack of luxury.”

  Kitty turned her blue eyes toward Philip. “I have faith in him, milady.”

  If he hadn’t known better, he would have almost believed her assertion. Remember, this is just a game. I’ve promised not to take her seriously.

  “The dancing is about to begin,” he said. “Kitty, would you care to dance?”

  “Oh, no,” Moregate said. “The first dance belongs to me, if Miss Beaucroft will consent to be my partner.”

  “With pleasure, sir.”

  Moregate led Kitty toward the dance floor. Lady Moregate laughed and patted Philip’s arm. “Don’t worry, dear, he won’t run away with her.”

  “What?”

  “You looked like a lost puppy just now, when Miss Beaucroft left your side.”

  “Did I?” He cleared his throat. “Is Augustus here?”

  “He’s chatting with Lady Lovejoy, but don’t change the subject. I see you’re completely smitten by your fiancée.”

  “We’re engaged, after all.”

  “Yes, but many people become engaged who share no affection whatsoever, Philip. Love in marriage is both a blessing and a curse. When you care for someone as deeply as you care for Miss Beaucroft, she has the power to hurt you. Be forewarned.”

  “Yes, mother. And on that cheerful note, would you like to dance?”

  “I would, thank you.”

  Philip and his mother joined the coupl
es on the dance floor, but he was preoccupied. His mother was wrong; he couldn’t be in love with Kitty. To have allowed himself to fall in love with her would be the utmost foolishness, and he wasn’t given to foolishness. He was merely pretending to be a love-struck swain, and undoubtedly his expression reflected his role. In addition, Kitty’s ability to playact was extremely convincing. It’s a ruse, not a romance, and I mustn’t ever forget the difference.

  Lord Moregate was a practiced and assured dance partner, which came as a relief to Kitty. Ordinarily, she was an excellent dancer, but she was utterly distracted by Philip’s comment about her inner beauty. In her experience, most men were exclusively focused on her looks, without regard to her other qualities, so his sentiment had come as a refreshing surprise. Although she realized Philip was merely practicing his courtship technique, she was finding him increasingly irresistible. Her possible feelings for him were a disturbing and unwelcome development. If she should marry Lord Elbourne, would she always secretly yearn for his brother? And when Philip took a bride, would she be forced to feign happiness while hiding her own torment?

  Philip came into view as he danced with Lady Moregate. Kitty caught his eye, and his resulting smile made her knees grow weak. What a horrible joke if I’m in love with a man who is indifferent to me. Please, let it not be true! Obviously, the game she and Philip were playing had become a dangerous one—for her heart.

  Her partner chuckled as he followed her gaze. “I was prepared to disapprove of your marrying my son, but I see my opinion will do no good. I’m not too old to recognize a woman in love.”

  Kitty dance steps faltered, but Moregate took it in stride.

  “Sorry, I didn’t mean to embarrass you,” he said. “Your genuine sentiment is refreshing, especially when we’re surrounded by some of the most jaded and vainglorious people in England. I find it inspirational.”

  “Thank you, sir.” Oh, no!

  It was a fine afternoon to transact business, and Philip arrived at the attorney’s office, near bursting with anticipation and excitement. A week had passed since his father agreed to sell him Grovebrook, and he couldn’t wait to sign the papers to make the property his. To the obvious annoyance of the attorney’s clerk, who kept clearing his throat in protest, Philip paced in the anteroom while he was waiting to be called in. When at last he was admitted to Mr. Motto’s office, a small stack of papers—presumably the contract—sat on the attorney’s desk.