by Joan Vincent
And his Mother, he thought with a sideways glance at Lady Cecile. He had no need of further complications.
"It is, perhaps, time we retired to our rooms,” hinted Lady Stern. “Come, Lady Cecile, we must have a nice coze before we sup."
Lady Cecile hesitated, then seeing that Lady Juliane had turned her attention to Sir Percival, agreed. “We must. It will be most delightful. You can give me your opinion on my gown for tomorrow evening,” she said with a wide smile for Lord Adrian.
"I am sure you both will be breathtaking,” Adrian said as he escorted the two ladies to the door.
Lady Juliane disengaged herself from Sir Percy. “Then we must all be persuaded you will be matchless,” she purred. Instantly regretting her childish cattishness, Juliane brushed past those at the door and did not even notice Comte de Cavilón as she hurried past him to her room.
"You have been up to something, my friend,” reproached the comte as he entered the salon Lady Juliane had just left. He made a slight bow as Lady Stern and Lady Cecile excused themselves.
"Lady Juliane did not even notice my raiment,” he commented with a sniff and a wave of his lace kerchief.
Sir Percival fidgeted with his lace. He was always uncertain as to what action to pursue in the presence of the comte.
"Percy, you had better change for supper. Your lace is wilting,” snapped Lord Adrian.
"Oh, of course, Cousin Adrian.
"Till we sup, Comte de Cavilón.” He bowed and retreated.
The comte returned the bow perfunctorily and then turned to face Adrian. “Why be so irritable with le pauvre compagnon?
"You are not yourself,” Cavilón added and closed the doors of the salon. “What has happened to those iron nerves of yours?"
"Enough of your foolishness, Louís. Did you have any success?"
"Whoever said the English were serieux. You have the French temperament.” He smiled as Lord Adrian glowered at him, then became serious.
"I have had some success,” the comte said is a low voice.
"The four Frenchmen evidently followed Lady Juliane and the children from France. They must have thought to find the information or whatever they seek on her maid. I believe they killed the woman because she could identify them and they feared she would warn Lady Juliane.
"One, at least, is of the aristocratie. From the local gossip, fowl and other items have been disappearing since you arrived. They must be close by."
"Bah! That is nothing I do not already know."
"Ah, yes, but I received a letter delivered only this morning with information on André's father, Baron de la Croix, which I believe you will find tres interessant.” Comte de Cavilón pulled the letter from an inner pocket and held it out.
"After you read this, you will be ready to lay plans."
* * * *
Reaching her room, Lady Juliane slammed the door behind her. With the back of her hand she wiped away the tears that bad come unbidden to her eyes.
"Tears,” she muttered angrily. “What kind of fustian behaviour is this? Find your backbone,” she admonished. “Why let that bit of fluff bother you? She will wear out her eyelashes batting them at Lord Adrian.
"Why should I care if that is what he prefers—it'd serve him right to end up on her hook. She would make him squirm the rest of his life."
This thought quieted Lady Juliane's turmoil. When Bess entered a short while later, she found her ladyship pensively staring into space.
"I am sorry I am late, my lady. We have all been pressed into extra duties, what with the ball being on the morrow. It will be the most glamorous thing I have ever seen.
"But come, my lady, you must dress or you will be late. Which gown will it be? The puce, or perhaps..."
"No,” said Lady Juliane, rising. “The velvet mahogany."
Bess his a smile. News of Lady Cecile's arrival had spread rapidly among the household staff. It heartened Bess that Lady Juliane was finally taking interest in her appearance. This could only denote something interesting in the offing.
* * * *
That evening Lady Juliane entered the salon quietly. She had no desire to draw undue attention to herself and was confident in her appearance. Her glass's reflection had not told her she was beautiful. Certainly not in the style of Lady Cecile, but it had been far from condemning.
Juliane had had Bess fetch Satter to powder her hair as soon as she had arranged it. The effect of this with the mahogany gown, which not only suited her colouring but also flattered her figure, had evoked a very handsome reflection.
First to see her was Comte de Cavilón. He approached with an elegant swagger. “Lady Juliane, may I say you are ravisante this evening."
"You may say what you please, Comte, as you are a close friend of my husband's,” she smiled.
"Then I must add that my friend is the most fortunate of men to have found a treasure such as you,” he bowed with a turn of his lace-covered hand.
"You are most flattering, my lord. May I say you too appear to be in the height of fashion this evening,” she returned with a flutter of her fan.
"You are too kind, my lady. I fear I am a touch too elegant for the country,” the comte protested.
"Of course not, my lord. You will provide food for much conversation for months to come. What more shall you wish for?” While speaking, her eyes swept the room. Her conclusion was emphasized by the snap of her fan when she angrily shut it.
Curious, Comte de Cavilón followed her gaze. It led to the far side of the room where Lord Adrian and Lady Cecile were engaged in a private chat.
Lady Tretain, when apprised of Lady Juliane's presence by Holdt, ordered the butler to call the company to dinner. Her house guests were of a larger number than she preferred on this occasion. It would be twenty seated to dine tonight which would make the pre-ball supper number over thirty.
The countess had heard about Lady Juliane and Lady Cecile's earlier exchange. With such a large gathering events would be difficult to control. Anything could happen.
Holdt intoned, “Dinner is served."
"May I have the honour and pleasure of escorting you, Lady Juliane?” asked the comte.
"You are most gracious,” Lady Juliane said, smiling, as she saw the black look cross Lord Adrian's face. He had excused himself and was making his way to her.
His mother was quick to see this also. “So good of you to humour your mother, son,” she said, and halted him by clasping his arm.
"Yes? Oh, of course, Mother,” Lord Adrian looked at her, then swallowed his pique. “It has been some time since I have had the privilege of escorting you,” he added with a return to good humour.
"Then let us not keep everyone waiting.” She began to walk forward giving her son no chance to change his mind.
Following directly behind, Comte de Cavilón thought the evening was going to prove vastly more entertaining than he had dared hope. Lord Adrian had been reticent when it came to details concerning Lady Juliane but the comte was certain they held each other in affection.
Their behaviour made this apparent to everyone except the two concerned. That they had not confessed their love was evident to him. Cavilón thought he could remedy this. Perhaps not in as pleasant a mode as the pair would hope, but it would be far more diverting his way and would ensure a pleasant conclusion. With that in mind Comte de Cavilón set himself to be witty and entertaining throughout the meal.
Lady Juliane found her distaste for the effeminate comte decline. Although she maintained her distrust of the man she admitted he was very charming.
Seeing Lady Cecile seated beside Lord Adrian and amusing him, Lady Juliane abandoned herself to entertaining her dinner partners. From the black looks cast her way by both Lord Adrian and Lady Tretain, she felt she was succeeding beyond her hopes.
* * * *
When the men rejoined the women after taking their port, Comte de Cavilón once more sought out Lady Juliane's company and continued to flatter her.
Lady
Juliane had earlier admitted that she found all this attention vastly enjoyable even though she had no doubt it lacked serious intent. She was beginning to understand why some women went to any length to win it.
"I understand, my lady, that you are but recently come from Rouen. How did you find the atmosphere there?” the comte asked, as he watched her eyes flick once again across to Lord Adrian and Lady Cecile.
"I fear things are seriously awry in France. You would not believe what occurred in Rouen,” she said without thinking.
"Why do you not tell me. I would believe you,” cajoled the comte smoothly. “I understand the de la Croix family estates are near there. Did it involve them?” he asked innocently.
"What do you know of them?” she asked, suspicious and unable to hide it.
"Only the barest of knowledge,” laughed the comte. He was certain she had almost yielded to the urge to trust him. He could yet gain her confidence.
"There are so many aristocratic families, you understand, one cannot know them all. There was some gossip about the baron the past few months. That is all,” he shrugged negligently.
"Gossip?” Lady Juliane spread her fan concentrating. “Of course, all women are interested in gossip. You cannot mean to tantalize me with the hint of it without telling all,” she said, fluttering her fan before her face.
"What could a minor French family mean to you?” he teased calculatingly.
"Nothing, of course. But come, what is it you heard?” Lady Juliane gave a laugh she feared was a trifle nervous.
"If you insist. It seems the baron become short of funds. He had an English wife who was angry with him about this and something about the Duc de Veryl—the remainder is very confusing.
"The story is told in all different manners, but it concerns a small fortune in jewels. One never knows what to believe about gossip, does one?” he asked, watching her closely.
"No, of course not. It is probably all false,” Lady Juliane said, her fan slowing. “Come, let us join Lord Adrian."
As she led the way, not allowing him to refuse, Juliane tried to digest his words. Would it be the gems the abductors were after? Cora had mentioned nothing of any. Her own search of the house at Rouen had yielded nothing of value. If only she had a clue as to their pursuers’ identities. Was the baron one of them?
"A pleasant surprise to have you join us, my dear,” said Lord Adrian.
His grating tone brought Lady Juliane's attention back to the present. “But how could I refrain from your company an entire evening?” she replied coolly.
"Lady Cecile, would you join me?” asked Comte de Cavilón, with a gracious bow.
"I would be delighted, my dear Comte. It is a relief that some men present know how to amuse one,” she said with a pointed glance at the earl.
Watching the two walk away, Lady Juliane smiled deceptively. “Losing your charm, my lord?"
"No more than you are acquiring yours,” Lord Adrian answered in like mien.
"My, my, feeling a touch raw this evening. Let me remind you that it is at your insistence that I remain. Are you now willing to renounce your plans for tomorrow evening?"
"No, my lady,” Tretain said firmly. “No one shall deny me the pleasure of presenting my wife."
"Who is it you hate? Your mother or I?” she asked, feeling a tear prick behind her eyes.
"Now is no time to speak of it. Later. Come,” he took her arm, “let us make a foursome with Mother and Cousin Percy for a game of whist. I am sure you could find nothing more delightful.” Juliane's answering look convinced him that their conversation was at an end.
CHAPTER 18
Light flooded the room as Bess threw open the draperies and stripped back the bed hangings in Lady Juliane's bedchamber. “Oh, my lady, aren't you excited! The night will be here ere the wax is properly shined. I just knew you'd wish to be up early."
Lady Juliane turned over and covered her head with her pillow. Today was one day she would just as leave forego.
"No funning me now, Lady Juliane, best to be up. Lord Adrian sent word he will visit you shortly,” insisted Bess, certain this would rouse her lady if nothing else could.
Sitting up abruptly Lady Juliane asked, “Did he say when?"
"No, my lady,” answered Bess as she brought a cup of chocolate to her.
"Never mind that,” Lady Juliane exclaimed pushing the cup aside. “Let me get dressed. Don't stand there gaping. What should I wear?” Jerking open the wardrobe, she went through the gowns.
"I think this blue day gown. Why the frown? Oh, yes, my gown for this evening is blue—this won't do. Fiddle-faddle, you choose something while I do my hair,” Lady Juliane said, her mind in such a dither she did not notice the connecting door open.
"Our ways have changed, haven't they, my dear?” Lord Adrian smiled, then became serious. “The value of the garments I have given you is increased tenfold by your pleasure in them."
Lady Juliane swung around at the sound of Lord Adrian's voice. Viewing with increasing disfavour his impeccable appearance in buckskin breeches, wren-brown small clothes, and exquisitely cut buckskin coat, she asked, “Will you never learn to give some warning?"
"Bess, you may go. I will send for you when you are needed."
"No, Bess, stay here.” After last night, Lady Juliane had no wish to be alone with him.
Bess's pained expression swung from Lord Adrian to Lady Juliane, then back to Lord Adrian. She bowed her head and stammered as she went out the door. “I'm ... I'm sorry, my lady."
"You are detestable,” Lady Juliane said calmly as the door closed behind the girl.
"I am happy to learn your opinion of me improves,” Adrian said as he sat down. He waved his hand languidly. “That gown is charming in a countrified way, but I am convinced the negligee I had sent from London would suit your looks more favourably.” He raised his quizzing glass.
Lady Juliane glanced down and realized she was still in her nightdress. Walking calmly to the bed where her wrapper lay, she tried to think of suitable revenge. The vile man had mentioned her attire only to embarrass her. She drew on the wrapper and turned to Lord Adrian with a smile.
"What is it you wish to discuss, my lord?” she asked sweetly.
Lord Adrian cocked his head in turn, but offered no other sign of discernment. “I had not thought to find you in—in such a fair humour this morning. Shall I thank Louís for it?” His tone did not change but his look became cold, hard, and cynical.
"I do not know what you mean,” Lady Juliane replied calmly. She took a seat at her dressing table and picked up her comb.
Lord Adrian rose with the smooth motion of a panther and began pacing.
"What is it, my lord?” she asked, turning in her chair.
He stopped and stared as if trying to reach a decision concerning her. “I ... I have ordered the children to remain in their rooms until tomorrow morning.” His look cut her objection.
"Fool! Can you not see this would be the perfect opportunity for the abductors? With all the additional help, stir and fuss in getting the last details accomplished for this evening, they could easily enter the house undetected. I have taken additional steps to protect the children, but it is best if no one knows of it.” He had become impassive once more.
"I wish only to assure you that everything is being done for their safety. I ask only for your cooperation this evening."
"My cooperation, my lord?"
"I believe you know exactly what I mean.” Lord Adrian approached Juliane and put a hand beneath her chin and lifted it so she had to meet his gaze.
"We shall present a very happy front to our guests this evening.” His coldness flickered, then vanished, replaced by an appeal. “I have arranged a very special surprise for you after the ball."
is lips claimed Juliane's before she could object. She responded to the gentle question in the movement of his lips upon her own. Shaken, she could only stare when he drew back.
Taking her hand, Adrian removed the b
and she wore on her third finger and slowly eased another band in its place. He looked searchingly at her, his eyes pledging a love he had not voiced. “This is my token of our betrothal, Juliane,” he said. Gently raising her hand, he kissed the newly placed ring and then left.
* * * *
Bess found her mistress still seated, staring blankly at the large diamond solitaire on her finger.
Lady Juliane spent the remainder of the day in a semi-haze. She tended to the minor details Lady Tretain assigned her and visited the children. They were unruly, affected by the fever pitch of everyone in the house. She had just succeeded in calming them somewhat when shouts outside drew them to the windows.
Near the front steps a rider fell off a lathered horse. Holdt and a liveried servant rushed to help him.
Straining to see out the window, André asked, “Who was that?"
"I have no idea. A messenger of some sort, I would guess by the state of his horse,” Lady Juliane answered. “I must go now. You help Alva amuse Leora. Perhaps she could play soldiers with you. I shall visit again before we dine.
"Remember, you are not to leave these rooms,” she cautioned.
As she went back into the hall, Lady Juliane wondered what to do. There was still some time left before she must dress and she did not feel like resting. A walk in the garden would clear her mind she decided. Glancing down at her hand, she touched the ring.
It was real. Had Lord Adrian meant it as a sign of his love? What to believe?
The world had become strangely unhinged since she had left India. Everything seemed to swirl together making it impossible to discern fact from fiction. Juliane's head told her to question Adrian's action. Her heart told her to depend on him. It told her she loved him.
Her natural honesty forced the conclusion upon her. Why else did she get so disconcerted when he was near. Why else the jealousy of Lady Cecile. Why else the thrill at his touch—at his kiss?
Hope buoyed her. Lord Adrian appeared of serious mind despite his witticisms and offhand manner. Precautions, he said, were being taken for the children. This had surprised her. Juliane smiled as she wandered through the corridors making for the gardens.