Wish Upon a Duke

by Jamie Salisbury

  She nodded, still stroking her son’s forehead. “I thank God you remembered that cave.”

  He kissed her gently. “I have some matters I need to attend to. Rest. The doctor will be here soon. I’ll leave a footman outside the door in case you require anything.”

  He hurried down the stairs, barking orders as he went, making sure everything he needed done was taken care of. When he retreated to his study to write down some of the day’s events, he found his hand shaking and his emotions high. They had been extremely lucky to find Vincent. The continued use of laudanum on a boy of Vincent’s size could have had an entirely different outcome. He walked over to a sideboard where he kept a variety of spirits. Brandy, whiskey, sherry. He chose the decanter of whiskey and began to pour himself a glass. He faintly heard the door open behind him.

  “Pour me one, and don’t be cheap about it. It’s been a hell of a day,” Parr said as he came up beside him. “Thank God the boy has been found.”

  “Yes,” he replied as he handed his friend a glass.

  He poured one for himself and sat in front of the fireplace, then waited for his friend to say something more.

  “I imagine Lady Dorset will arrive shortly,” Parr said.

  Gabriel nodded. “I’m sure she will.”

  “How is the boy?”

  Taking a long drink of whiskey, Gabriel sat back in the overstuffed leather chair. “Sleeping. Dawson drugged him. Laudanum, no doubt. He woke for a brief moment, but fell back asleep.”

  “He’s young, he’ll be fine.”

  “I’m sure he will be,” he replied as he rose to pour another drink.

  “What happened out there?”

  He nodded. “Savannah killed Mortimer.” He smiled. “Evidently, her late husband taught her to use a pistol and to hide one under her skirts.”

  “She was lucky—and smart.”

  “She was, because I have no doubt Dawson would have killed her given the chance.”

  “No need to ponder that, Gabriel. The important thing is Dawson won’t bother either of them again.”

  “No, he won’t.”

  “Come, let us toast Mrs. Dawson!” Parr crowed.

  Chapter Twenty-four

  Savannah woke to the glorious sound of her young son at her side trying to wake her. His voice was probably the most precious thing she could recall, one that she’d never take for granted.

  “Mama, the duke lives in a castle. No one has castles in America.”

  She opened her eyes to his excited eyes as he sat near. “Yes, he does. Have you been exploring?”

  He looked at her sheepishly. “Just a little. A footman went with me. He showed me around so I wouldn’t get lost.”

  “That’s nice, but the doctor wants you to rest today.”

  “But I did, Mama. I slept all night, and you did too.”

  She sat up. She still wore the same dress from yesterday. “So I did.”

  “Grandmama came. She sat in that chair for a long time,” he said, pointing to a dark green chair.

  “I wonder if she stayed or if she left?”

  “Darren said she left late last night for Sky View.”

  “Who’s Darren?” she asked as she stood.

  “The footman.”

  “Ahhhh, I see. Why don’t we have him take you downstairs to the breakfast room? I’ll be down in a couple of minutes.”

  “Okay, Mama. I’ll tell His Grace to wait on you too.”

  She hadn’t intended to fall asleep, not to mention sleeping that long. She hoped Gabriel had finally gotten a good night’s sleep as well.

  Vincent skipped out of the room while Savannah took care of her personal needs. She washed her face with water left in a pitcher. She finally gave up on her hair and let it flow free. After breakfast, she would return to Sky View for a bath and to change.

  She entered the breakfast room finding Vincent and Gabriel in the midst of lively discussion. Vincent was listening to him give him the history of the fortress, asking questions that Gabriel gladly answered.

  For having been kidnapped for several days, Vincent seemed no worse for wear. He was a strong boy, having gotten through the news of his own father’s death without incident. Sometimes Savannah wondered if he wasn’t bottling it all up inside him, and that one day it would all come spilling out. It was more than any child should have to be burdened with.

  Gabriel rose from his chair the moment he saw her enter the breakfast room. Vincent did the same, mimicking the duke’s every move.

  “Good morning. I trust you slept well,” he said with a lopsided grin she loved.

  “I did, thank you. I didn’t mean to fall asleep so early.”

  “You were exhausted. I didn’t have the heart to wake you, even when Lady Dorset came.”

  “I recall her coming into the room, the doctor too, but little more.”

  “Your body needed to rest,” he replied.

  She sat down and instructed the footman what she wanted. “And you, did you sleep well?” she asked Gabriel.

  “Yes. I didn’t wake until my valet came into the room. Usually, I’m up before he enters.”

  “Then you were exhausted as well, Your Grace.”

  She nodded to the footman as he set her plate down. Coddled eggs, sausage, and toast. It all looked heavenly, and she was hungry.

  “I’m going to tour the castle when we’re finished here. Parr still remains, though he’s left with the constable. He wanted to see the spot...” He didn’t finish, not wanting to bring up the matter in front of Vincent.

  “I need to return to Sky View to bathe and change.”

  “No need. Lady Dorset brought your lady’s maid and whatever it is you ladies need last night. I’ll have Mrs. White show you to the duchess’s suite when you’re ready.”

  “Thank you,” she replied.

  “Come on, Your Grace. I’m ready, are you?” young Vincent asked. He was most impatient to have the duke’s full attention.

  “Yes. Why don’t you meet me in the grand gallery. I’ll be there in a few minutes.”

  Vincent nodded his head of sable-brown hair and skipped out of the room.

  Gabriel waited until the door closed before he came around the table and kissed Savannah.

  “What’s that for?” she asked demurely.

  “Because I love you.”

  “I love you too, Gabriel.”

  He stood up to his full height. He was a tall man, taller than Roland by three inches at least. He was muscular and tanned from all his outdoor activities. But what made her heartbeat speed was those emerald green eyes of his as they gazed at her full of love. “I intend to see about a special license this afternoon. I’m planning on riding to see the bishop today.”

  “You are? Have you decided when we’ll marry too?”

  “As soon as possible,” he replied. “If you want to go to London for a dress, let me know. We can leave as soon as this Dawson matter is finished.”

  She shook her head. She didn’t want to be away from Vincent—not at this time. “Not necessary. I have a dress in mind. I think you’ll approve.”

  “I’m sure I will,” he replied. He winked at her. “You’re a beautiful woman with good taste.”

  “The sooner we marry, the better, Gabriel.”

  “Why’s that?”

  “Because every time you make love to me is a chance for me to conceive your child.”

  “Is there anything wrong with that?”

  “Absolutely not. I look forward to having your child grow in my belly. I just hope you don’t find me too unattractive when I am huge with child.”

  “Never! Now if you’ll excuse me, I have an anxious young man waiting,” he replied. “Feel free to stay as long as you want. I want you to be comfortable here.”

  She nodded. “Thank you. Now go.”

  “One last thing. I thought perhaps we could sit down with Vincent and tell him our plans.”

  “I think that’s an excellent idea, but let’s give him a
day or two before we spring changes on him.”

  He smiled. “As you wish. I’ll see you later.” He turned and headed out the door. Savannah watched his retreating figure and smiled.

  * * *

  Why hadn’t she told him she suspected she already carried his child? Her mother had taught her that men didn’t need to know these things until a woman was completely sure. At one time, she would have agreed with her, but with Gabriel, things were different than they had been with Roland.

  Gabriel wasn’t afraid of expressing his feelings with her. He loved her and therefore loved Vincent. He loved her unconditionally and would move heaven and earth for her. She knew that with all her heart.

  Mrs. White showed her to the duchess’s suite, which had obviously been cleaned and aired out quite recently. The furniture was French, a popular style at the moment. An arrangement of roses from the duke’s garden graced one table. She walked to the window and looked out. The view was spectacular; the large meadow seemed to go on forever before it met up with the tree line in the distance. The wall that surrounded the castle hid the formal gardens that Gabriel’s grandmother had started. It was a pity something so beautiful wasn’t easily shared nor seen.

  “Can I get you anything else, madam?” Mrs. White asked.

  “No, thank you.”

  “I hear Abbott in the bathing chamber. I can let her know you’re ready.”

  She shook her hair, which flowed around her shoulders. “That’s not necessary Mrs. White,” she replied. “I wanted to thank you and the staff for everything you did during the search for my son. I’ll never forget it.”

  “You’re most welcome, and we look forward to the day you and His Grace marry.”

  “Yes, well, if he has anything to do with it, the ceremony will take place very soon."

  “Then I best make sure the silver is polished and everything is perfect.”

  Mrs. White turned to leave, and as soon as the door shut, Savannah made her way through a doorway and found the bathing chamber.

  It amazed her how Gabriel had renovated the castle to include plumbing and hot and cold water. Gas lights were a work in progress and he’d recently bought a brand-new range for the kitchen.

  She undressed as Norma scurried around the room laying out new under garments, then picking up those that were dirty. Savannah neared the large porcelain tub, taking in the scent of lilacs. She stepped into the tub and sank into the water until it was to her neck. She leaned against the back and closed her eyes.

  “Would you like me to brush your hair before you wash it, madam?” Norma asked her from somewhere behind her. At one point, the idea of someone wanting to comb her hair, let alone be in her bathing chamber with her, would have caused her to jump. It was now a welcome sound. She wondered if Gabriel would ever visit her here.

  Savannah nodded. “Please.”

  She sat back and relaxed after her hair was washed. The water was growing tepid, and she knew she’d better force herself out. Today would be a busy day for everyone.

  It seemed she had a wedding to plan.

  Chapter Twenty-five

  A week later, the couple stood in the family chapel, which had been used for generations to celebrate marriages, births, and occasionally, the sorrow of death. Today was one of the days meant to celebrate.

  The priest stood with Gabriel as they waited for the bride to come down the aisle to meet him. His friend, Parr, the earl of Wexford stood next to him.

  There she was, dressed in a lavender dress, her hair swept up, flowers placed throughout. She was the most exquisite woman Gabriel had ever laid eyes on. In a few minutes, she would be his forever. They would share an incredible life together, have children, and yes, life’s cycle would go on, but it was his life. His and Savannah’s, and now another Armstrong would grace the world. Savannah shared the news with him last night she was with child. It was her wedding gift to him. A better gift he could not imagine existed.

  Walking down the short aisle, she was escorted by the young Earl of Dorset, who, upon seeing Gabriel, broke into a huge grin. The boy and he shared a special bond since that day he carried the young man up the stairs to his old room. It pleased Gabriel no end. For now, in this moment, his soon-to-be son was taking his role as his mother’s escort very seriously.

  She nodded to her son once she was standing next to Gabriel. Vincent flashed another grin in Gabriel’s direction before leaving to go sit with his grandmother, the Dowager Countess of Dorset. The attendees were small in number, on purpose. Two of the duke’s other friends were in attendance as well. Henry Littleton, the Marquess of Dover and as well as John Long, Viscount of Norton. He only wished his sisters and brother could have attended, but his sister’s voyage had been delayed, and the other he’d yet to hear from. Gregory, well, Gregory was having a grand old time on the Continent, he was sure. Thus, Gabriel knew not to expect him.

  “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today...” the priest boomed.

  Gabriel glanced at his bride out of the corner of his eye. Her back ramrod straight, she looked past the priest. He sensed she was nervous and quietly took her hand to steady her nerves. She smiled for a second before returning her complete attention to the man in front of them.

  Her voice rang strong and steady as did his as they both recited their vows. With the priest pronouncing them husband and wife, he turned to his bride, leaned down, and kissed her. The kiss lasted probably longer than was proper, but he didn’t care. She was his, his wife and duchess.

  Placing his bride’s hand on his forearm, he walked with her down the aisle to the back of the chapel. He escorted Savannah to a small room in the back where documents for her to sign sat on a desk.

  The party walked back to the castle for the wedding breakfast. Vincent had run ahead, proud of the fact he was being allowed to sit with the adults this morning. After what the boy had endured, his parents only thought it fitting that he join them in the celebration.

  “You look beautiful, Your Grace,” he whispered.

  “Thank you,” came her reply.

  “Good enough to ravage,” he said playfully.

  “We have guests, Gabriel,” she teased.

  “Ah yes, about our guests. Lady Dorset and Vincent will be leaving shortly for Dorset Manor, where Vincent will spend the night. The rest of my friends will be departing after the wedding breakfast as well. So you see, Your Grace, we will have the remainder of the day to ourselves.”

  She arched a brow and continued to walk. “Think you’re pretty smart planning it all out, do you?”

  “I do. I intend to carry you to my bed and ravage you the rest of the day and into the night.”

  “Gabriel, stop. This isn’t the sort of conversation to be having among family and friends. Someone might overhear,” she teased.”

  He patted her hand. “Trust me, my dear, everyone knows where we’ll be the remainder of the day.”

  “Yes, I’m sure they do,” she said biting her lip to stop from smiling.

  They walked in silence for a few minutes. He purposely slowed, allowing everyone to pass them. No one thought a thing about it, and in a matter of minutes, not one person other than themselves were on the path.

  He leaned down to kiss her. She opened to him, and his tongue urged hers to merge. He pressed himself against her, knowing if it weren’t for the fact they were expected, he would take her right now. He would take her somewhere hidden, of course, but he would have her.

  “We should go,” she whispered.

  “You’re right,” he replied. “How are you feeling?”

  “I feel better than I have in ages, and it’s all thanks to you.”

  He kissed her again. “I love you, Savannah. You are my strength and my weakness. I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you.”

  “I love you too.” And she did. With all her heart. Never had she felt such deep, devoted feelings for one man—her husband.

  They began to walk again, their first as man and wife
. This coming year would be filled with firsts, including the birth of his first child. How much better could life get for a duke and his American wife?

  Epilogue

  Gabriel Robert Charles Armstrong entered the world red-faced and screaming. Just born, already the babe seemed to know his place in the world and demanded those around him meet his needs.

  Savannah stared down at her son as the midwife placed him in her arms. She’d wanted to name him after her father and Roland, but as Gabriel explained, his first-born son would carry his name. She gracefully gave in once he agreed the child would be known as Robert.

  “How do you feel?” he asked her as he peered down at his son.

  “Tired.”

  “I imagine that’s to be expected. If you’d like, the nurse can take him.”

  “No, I would rather have some time with you and Robert.”

  He smiled. “I imagine Vincent’s going to scold us both for not sending for him.”

  “Which is why I sent him to stay with his grandmother. We’ll send word first thing in the morning.”

  “Yes, we will.”

  “Would you like to hold him?” she asked as she watched him closely.

  “May I?”

  “Of course! He’s your son. My hope is that you’ll spend lots of time with him.”

  He shifted nervously and bent down to take the babe she offered. Gabriel peered down at his firstborn. He certainly did resemble an Armstrong with the same goldish-brown hair. He walked around the bedchamber, his son in his arms.

  The babe stared up at Gabriel as though he already knew who he was. A duke and his heir, the cycle of life repeating itself.

  Coming spring 2021

  His Only Countess

  Love & Devotion series #2

  His Only Countess

  Love & Devotion series #2

  Chapter One

  The carriage, pulled by four perfectly matched white horses, drew up outside the towering classical facade of Clevedon House, the London residence of the Duke of Clevedon. If it weren’t for the fact that the duke was a close friend from their days at Eaton and Cambridge, Parr would have declined the invitation. The night, however, was important to Clevedon. It was the first dinner party held by the recently married duke and duchess, and Parr could never refuse Clevedon. The duke had assured him the affair would be small, knowing Parr disliked large, crowded events.