Restless, he sought Camille. “I’ve had an idea. Why don’t we invite Josette and her father to visit with us here over the weekend? It’s short notice, but I’m sure it would thrill Jaclyn to spend time with someone more her age. What do you think?”
“Brother, you do have a way with words. Am I to feel an ancient, wizened, older female?”
He sensed pain behind her words and wanted to kick himself in the arse for the hurt inflicted.
“Radolf, stop your worry and enjoy yourself for a change. I will arrange for the invitation. It will be a surprise. Jaclyn is a changed and happy girl.”
“She’s a female of eighteen years. Are we sure about this social season as a necessary event? It’s caused her concern. Anything arranged can be unarranged for a pound or two.” Wolferton arched an eyebrow, and he worried his lower lip.
Camille placed her embroidery in the basket, removed her glasses, and motioned for her brother to sit. “I think this week or two here will result in a monumental change in her outlook. How kind of you to invite her friend and father. It will make her feel at home in what she sometimes calls this strange land. She will see the beauty of the country juxtaposed against the soot-ridden city. You and I have assumed we know what’s best for her. Let’s see what influence her school friend has on her outlook.” She touched his hand. “And you, Sir Galahad, may be able to use your considerable charm on both girls to find out what Jaclyn desires. I think I already know, but perhaps you must be convinced. Do you have the Dupree’s address?”
He nodded. “Come to my study. Halifax’s influence will diminish. I will concentrate on Jaclyn’s happiness. However, I’ve promised the ultimate suitor choice is hers, but I will make every attempt so that her choice isn’t Halifax. She’s ill-prepared to deal with such a two-faced scorpion. Whatever happens to me is in heaven’s hand, but Halifax will never lay a hand on her in marriage—or otherwise.”
Camille followed him into the study. “What a profound idea to celebrate our new start with a family dance. You’re clever, devious, and a good man. I’ll run upstairs now and prepare for frivolity. You think Jaclyn will like your surprise?”
“I hope so. We’ll find out soon, won’t we? Now, hurry and don’t be late. Come to think of it, I’ll follow you since I have to change. I wonder if the uniform still fits.”
****
In her room, Jaclyn opened the brown paper package and removed a dress. She held it against her and glanced in the mirror. The color was her favorite, but the cut different from anything she owned. Its elegance amazed her. She preened from side to side and then recognized it as the dress ruined in her flight to find Camille and the duke. The torn part was now a pleat of black beaded roses strung as if on a vine in continuous symmetry. The buttons on the top of the gown were the same and slipped in the button loops, but the bodice and neckline were different. The shoulders and high neck were there, but below the collar was an open heart shape.
She lay the gown on a chair and removed her outer clothes. A tap on the door sounded. “Come.” Camille entered. “You knew about the surprise and didn’t tell me?” she asked in a jovial tone. “I’ve not seen anything like it. Have you?”
Camille helped her step into the new garment. “Radolf designed it himself with the modiste. He was upset the gown you preferred was damaged. Unfortunately, the ruined fabric was no longer available, so he envisioned the idea of the sweetheart neckline.” She handed Jaclyn the ribbon for around her waist.
“Are you pleased? He went through a great deal to try to replicate the frock because he knew how much it meant to you.”
“Yes, Camille, it is more sophisticated than my simple dress. Do you think it makes me look like a woman instead of a girl?” She placed her hand to her lips conscious of her now warm cheeks.
“Yes, it does. The way the black lace roses stream down the skirt is an attention to detail. Do you realize the message he sends you?”
”Message? What message could there be?”
“You’re not that naïve. He could have had the modiste stitch grosgrain ribbon. Instead, my brother chose his signature black lace roses. Do you have any idea how much more hand work is required? It’s a good sign. Please, even if you don’t like it, be kind. Your approval is what he seeks.”
Jaclyn went to Camille and embraced her. “Yes, it does mean something. I’m not sure of the message, and I don’t want to overstep my bounds, but I do love it and will not only say so but show him how much I do.” She giggled at the thought to give him a special kiss.
Now she pranced about the room like a prized Lipizzaner horse at an exhibition. “Imagine. He did this for me.” Her mood contagious, Jaclyn dragged Camille along in a circular dance around a photo-laden table. “For me!”
“Yes, only for you. I’ll leave you now and see what I have to wear, but nothing will compare. Shall we descend together or will we meet in the dining room?” Then she frowned. “Oh, yes, I forgot about the major. Best to meet in the drawing room. What was his name—Major Anderson? Hmm. I think my brother is up to mischief.”
Her smile brought a larger one to Jaclyn’s face. “I saw the major. He’s quite handsome. All you have to do is relax and have a lovely time with him. Wolferton’s gone to great length for us. We should go to greater lengths for him. Agreed?”
“Yes, most agreeable.”
Jaclyn noted the happy hum as Camille left the room. Immediately she went to her desk and unlocked the drawer to write in her journal.
Sweet heaven, I don’t know where to start. Radolf created a design just for me of my ruined dress. Just for me. The bodice is an open sweetheart design. It also shows my figure. Not as modest as my other frocks. Just for me, dear diary. I can’t wait to see his face when I wear it tonight.
No desire to summon her maid, she swept her hair back into an upward motion before the mirror, pinned it in place, and then left to savor the aura of freedom.
Jaclyn didn’t have any jewelry to speak of, but she did have the jeweled gold cross her father had given her. She placed it under the collar so the cross was centermost in the sweetheart cutout. “Protected by heaven,” she whispered. “Oh, my, it will be of interest, and I’m excited to dance with the man of my dreams and have him all to myself. Sweet heaven, what a glorious evening lay ahead. Paramount to her thoughts was how she would arrange for him to kiss her and believe it of his desire.”
Chapter Twenty-Nine
A Night to Remember
Wolferton and the major were in the study until the rustle of skirts and footsteps announced they were on the staircase. “I believe our ladies are prepared to join us.” He motioned the uniformed man to precede him out the door.
They waited in the lower foyer, and the duke introduced the major. Both men offered the crook of their arms to the women. Partnered, they walked along the corridor as the musicians strung up in preparation. When they entered the smaller of the two drawing rooms, Halbert stood at attention, then ushered them to a smaller table where four seats were available.
“I thought it would be more conducive to small talk if we didn’t have to look across a long table with candelabra and flowers to impede our view and conversation,” Wolferton offered an explanation.
Halbert pulled out seats for the ladies while the men sat. The musicians played their instruments in the background.
“Major, it’s been quite some time since we’ve seen each other. Do you still write your war stories?” Wolferton’s warm smile was meant to reduce any tension between Camille and the gentleman she just met.
“In actuality, Colonel—sorry, Your Grace…”
“I haven’t been addressed as Colonel in a long time. I used to prefer it.”
“Very well, Colonel, I hope to write a chronicle about the Napoleonic wars and their effect on the continent. It’s rather a tedious task, but I find I want to do more than a historical treatise.”
“How so?” Camille tilted her head toward the major.
“I write for my enjoyment
, but I’d like to depict the heart and soul of a soldier in battle. The concerns not only for his personal safety but for the loved ones left behind to fend for themselves. I know from my mother’s many letters how she prayed in church for my safe return. Not only were her letters a comfort, but they also gave purpose to me, for life is a treasure.”
Wolferton couldn’t help but wonder if Camille was the only person who prayed for him for there really was no one else.
Halbert poured red wine into their glasses.
Wolferton gazed around the table with an inner joy. His sister smiled and chatted with a vibrancy she hadn’t shown before. Jaclyn and her effervescence took his breath away. Her dress stunned him in its simplicity of design. Perhaps that wasn’t the right word. On her, it was perfect. He glanced again at Camille in animated conversation with the major. Yes, he was matchmaking for above all, he wanted to see her happy and not enjoying happiness through others. She deserved her full measure and had paid the price.
Wolferton then tinkled his goblet with a knife, arose and toasted. “To your success in your efforts, Major. And to our lovely ladies for a night of enjoyment in the dance.”
Camille asked, “Major, I, for one would be most interested to read anything you’ve written to date, especially if it recreates the inner emotions of the soldiers on and off the field of battle, and of the women and children who awaited their return.”
“I agree,” Jaclyn said. “It would help me understand my father’s hope and ambition better.”
“Exactly,” the major said. “It does give food for thought.”
“On the subject of sustenance,” offered Wolferton, “I believe we are about to be served.”
After the hearty meal, the musicians played a waltz. Wolferton extended his arm to Jaclyn, and they set out on the floor. Carpets had been removed to reveal polished wooden boards. Camille and the major soon joined them.
Jaclyn whispered, “Thank you for the repair of my favorite dress. I do like the changes to the design. You are a man of many talents.” He twirled her around each corner of the room, and she glided along with him.
“I like the fact you wear the cross your father gave you. Even now I believe he protects you.” He held her closer, his head high and the scent of her perfume, now familiar, played havoc with his senses. “You fit in my arms as if you were destined to be here.”
“Who knows what plans fate has in store for us? Have you consulted the Guardian window here?”
At the reference to the supernatural figures, he twirled toward the open French doors. “It’s my belief we create our destiny. I did wink at it though.” A warm breeze feathered the rose bushes on the balcony. He continued to hold her in his embrace, but then stopped to ask, “Happy?”
“Yes, I feel I live in a dream world, and you are…in it, too as the main character.” As my charming Prince.
“I have come to believe in renewed dreams,” his tone affirmative with pleasant thoughts of her. Her glazed look sent a hot jolt of desire through every pore of his body. Tonight, there was a bottomless peace that reigned over him. He fought his battle of personal restraint, for she trusted him. Trust, more than a five-letter word, and one he would not violate. He was used to shadows, but tonight he shooed them all away.
“I see Camille and the major have stopped to rest. Shall we join them and switch partners? We need to keep this lively.” He led her back to the room. “Sister, it’s time for your dance with me, I believe.” He handed Jaclyn off to the major.
“Are you happy to dance?” He led Camille around the room.
“Radolf, this is such a lovely evening—somewhat perfect. Are you on your best behavior?”
“Under the circumstances, I believe I am. Now, no recriminations. I’m befuddled. Halifax has sent a letter to Jaclyn, but I haven’t given it to her as yet. Perhaps tomorrow. Tonight is ours to enjoy. I wonder who he bribed to find out our whereabouts. I’ll have to check on this invasion of privacy.”
“I agree. The man is a scoundrel.”
He danced her to the balcony, and they sat on the carved bench.
“Radolf, did you ever suspect you and I would be responsible for such a young woman’s virtue? It’s a tremendous responsibility.”
“She has a maiden’s fantasy about me. I am more of a rogue than Halifax.” He frowned. “I retract those words. I changed my dissolute ways years ago, and I’ve paid for my sins. Does this make me redeemable in your esteem?”
“Even more so. You are my special hero, brother.”
“I’ll let you in on a secret. I’m ready to believe in myself…and fairytales.” He extended his hand to her; she arose and they walked back into the room.
They spent the rest of the evening in the drawing room in conversation, but Wolferton paid careful attention to comments made by the major about possible improvements to the stables, corrals, and the equestrian activities.
“Do not misunderstand my observations, Colonel, but there are many new theories about the care of the horses and their training. Unfortunately, they are not utilized enough,” said the major.
“I take no umbrage,” Wolferton answered. “However, since you have found them needing review, I am interested in your recommendations. I plan to spend most of my time here rather than in London. Also, if you have any other suggestions in your area of expertise, I want to hear about it.”
“Thank you, sir. I shall present my annotations to you in a week.” He nodded and grinned to his host and arose. “May I thank you for a delightful evening, Lady Hattersley. The colonel mentioned you’ll be riding tomorrow. Perhaps you’d enjoy extra company? We could continue our conversation about my war stories.”
“I’d like that, Major.” She lowered her head, her cheeks in an obvious blush.
“I’ll have your horse saddled for you at eleven in the morning. Will it suit you?”
Camille fussed with her collar and smiled. “Yes.”
He addressed Wolferton and Jaclyn. “Shall I make preparations for you?”
“Seems we are all in agreement. I look forward to the ride on my estate.” He grinned as never before.
“Good night, Colonel and to you, ladies.” The major departed.
“He seems like a nice enough chap, though it appears I’ve been neglectful of Wolferton land and properties.”
“I’m sure the major didn’t mean to criticize,” said Camille.
“If we do intend to spend more time here, we should make sure the manor and lands are up to snuff.” Wolferton glanced at his sister.
“He’s quite a winsome man. I might add, also impressive with a quiet dignity about him.” She smiled and arose. “I can’t believe I spent a good part of the night at leisure, but it reminds me of much I’ve missed. I’ll say good night, brother.” She addressed Jaclyn, “No need for you to retire. I’ll leave my door open should you need me. You enjoy what’s left of the moonlight. It shimmers over the garden fountains with a mysterious glow.” She yawned and departed.
Jaclyn turned toward Wolferton. “Did you realize you were in a matchmaker role?” she said with a tease in her voice.
“I know I must seem controlling at times, but seeing Camille smile and speaking gaily warmed my heart. I’d like to see her truly happy. Forgive me, but perhaps I think a man is a necessary element in that happiness. This event started out to find another dance partner, but who knows what will happen? Camille is used to a different lifestyle. I would venture to say the major is also. If Cupid’s arrow pierces, I’d have no objection. She deserves romance.” Jaclyn’s gaze at him pleased more than he could’ve imagined. “Join me in an evening libation?”
****
“While I’ve enjoyed strong spirits with you, sometimes they make me giddy. I feel more courageous, though I’ll have to develop a better tolerance for them.”
“Do only the things that give you enjoyment. I drank because many times in my life it was an escape from my memories. There’s something to be said about all things in moderation.”
He placed his glass on the table. “I’d like to check the foaling of the horse. Would you care to accompany me, or do you desire to seek sleep?”
“Does it mean you’ll put me to bed?” she teased.
“Miss Jaclyn, you are no longer a child but a grown woman. Be careful with your flirtations for as a man, temptation also appeals.”
“So you have noticed?” Jaclyn fingered the cross on her neck. Her comment was enticing but he was formidable. Desire could be dangerous with a man such as he. His desire had met hers. What next?
“Yes. Our future holds promise.”
The sultry tone of his voice was even more serious than she imagined. Oh, my.
Though a trifle fatigued, Jaclyn wanted to spend as much time with him as she could. “Do you think the mare ready?” She arose and took his hand. They walked out the room, through the long corridor, and down the back kitchen steps to the stables. The fully lit stall next to Comet’s signaled activity.
“Hurry, Miss Jaclyn. Raise your skirts, so you don’t soil the gown.”
Without a care, she took a small part of the hem and tucked it in the waistband.
“There ye are, Yer Grace. ’Twas about to send a lad to alert ye. I’m guessin’ it’ll be about an hour or so. I’ve sent for the major too.”
“Jaclyn, you may wish to leave. While a beautiful sight to witness a foaling, it might upset a lady. Allow me to conduct you back to the house.”
His gentle hand guided her out, and she let down her hem. This time he took her through the lush gardens with the sound of water crashing gently to the pool. At the veranda, she stopped. “I’ll never tire of the sight of the stars. There were times it was all I had to comfort me. Now I have you.” She hadn’t meant to express the words in such a fashion, but it was too late to retract them. Outside the French doors of the drawing room, she paused. “Kiss me good night?”
The Blue-Eyed Black-Hearted Duke Page 14