Enchanting the Duke (The Seven Curses of London Book 11) Page 8

  “Those who make their living by relying on the charity of others. They might not be true beggars, but they have no desire for employment for one reason or another. The issues with helping the less fortunate are a challenge, especially in London.”

  “I suppose I didn’t realize how serious the problem has become.”

  “More and more people move to London each year, resulting in many concerns. Charity is a wondrous act, but it’s important to make certain that those with their hands out aren’t doing it to take advantage of the system put in place to help those truly in need.”

  “Nothing is simple these days, is it?” She shook her head.

  “Burbridge gave me a copy of a book called The Seven Curses of London where the author shares what he considers to be the worst problems London is facing. While the author tends toward the dramatic, the issues are certainly ones to be taken seriously. One of those is professional beggars, though I think their numbers are smaller than suggested.”

  “Lillian mentioned the book as well. She said reading it made her even more convinced that finding solutions to the ills of our country starts with helping the children. Based on what I’ve learned, I agree, and that is one of the reasons I wanted to help with the orphanage. There’s much to learn about all the problems as none of them are easily resolved.”

  “True. The nobility needs to take more of an active role in social reform rather than ignoring what is happening a few streets away from where we live. Some improvements have been made, but there is more work to be done.”

  Eleanor stopped to study him, bringing him to a halt as well. A question lingered in her eyes but she hesitated as if uncertain whether she should ask.

  “What is it?”

  “I saw you in London when I was out shopping. Just off Bond Street. You spoke with a young girl then waved at a woman in an upper window.”

  “Spying on me, eh?” He smiled, warmed by the thought that she cared enough to ask. “That was Mrs. Dawson, my former nanny, and her niece, Amelia. I delivered a monetary gift with the hope it would brighten their holiday.”

  The tension in her expression eased. “How kind of you. I admire you greatly for not just your thoughts but for the actions you take. So many gentlemen speak favorably of reform until the time comes to do something. Thank you for that.” She smiled at him again.

  His heart grew a little bit bigger as they continued their shopping. Here he’d thought himself alone rather than lonely the past few years—actually, much longer if he were honest with himself. Now he had to question that belief as well.

  The look of admiration in her expression should’ve been something he could easily dismiss. But her opinion of him had come to matter. He wanted to be the type of man she admired.

  A woman’s opinion was the last thing his grandfather would’ve sought. However, he now realized his grandfather had been wrong not to do so. Females made up half the population, their influence was easily seen in the majority of households, and their perspectives were unique.

  His grandfather had acted as if women went out of their way to be a poor influence on men and distract them from their purpose, yet that wasn’t true either. He wondered how many other things had his grandfather been wrong about. The question certainly gave him something to ponder. An unfamiliar sensation held him in its grip. It took him a long moment to recognize it—hope.

  ~*~

  Eleanor sighed as she looped a bright red ribbon around a small piece of greenery later that afternoon. The coming evening was the last small gathering the guests would enjoy. The following night was the ball with many traveling from nearby estates as well as from London to join the celebration.

  Lillian had wanted to do something to remind the guests to give even after they left the ball. The group had decided to give an ornament made of greenery as they departed with the request to make a small donation.

  Eleanor suggested adding an orphan’s name on a piece of paper tied to it to make the request more personal. The ladies had spent the past two hours tying small pieces of greenery into circles and adding a bit of ribbon and beads as well as the child’s name.

  Eleanor enjoyed the work as it gave her time to think. With only two nights remaining of the house party, she worried whether the closeness she and Douglas had shared would continue once they returned home. While she liked to think their relationship had improved, she was far from claiming victory. If he returned to his custom of working continually, the next few months would be lonely.

  “Is all well?” Lillian asked quietly.

  “Of course. I was just thinking of how quickly time has passed since our arrival.”

  “Hasn’t it though? I’m sorry I didn’t join you for the outing to the village earlier, but I wanted to spend time in the nursery.”

  Eleanor smiled. “I would’ve done the same. It was generous of you to host the party when you have such a beautiful baby to enjoy.” The absolute joy on Lillian’s face made Eleanor’s breath catch.

  “I love him so much already.” Lillian blinked back sudden tears. “It’s rather terrifying to love someone so fiercely. Between him and Elijah, it’s a wonder I still have a heart.”

  Longing washed through Eleanor, nearly taking her under with its weight. That was exactly what she wished for—a heart so full that she wondered if it could hold anything more. Would that ever come to pass?

  Lillian shook her head as she smiled, glancing around as if to see whether any of the other ladies noticed. “Forgive me. I am still adjusting to motherhood.”

  “Not at all. I think your reaction is wonderful.”

  Lillian leaned close. “I can’t thank you enough for all your help and support these last few days. You’ve made entertaining and the activities so much easier. I appreciate it more than I can say.”

  “I’m happy to help. Truly. It’s made the gathering even more fun.”

  Lady Elizabeth laughed from across the room, drawing everyone’s notice.

  Lillian frowned. “At least she’s keeping her distance and making an effort to be nice.”

  “One must be grateful for small things,” Eleanor muttered, causing Lillian to laugh.

  The pile of ornaments grew until Lillian declared they had more than enough. The ladies departed to dress for dinner, and soon they had finished another delicious meal.

  When Burbridge advised the guests they intended to play snapdragon, Eleanor couldn’t help but smile in delight, only to notice Douglas didn’t share her enthusiasm.

  “Don’t you like the game?” she asked as they stood in the drawing room where a table had been set up with a shallow bowl in its center.

  “I’ve never played it.” He stared at the brandy-filled bowl with suspicion.

  Once again, Eleanor’s heart hurt for that lonely little boy who’d missed out on so many ordinary activities. She had fond memories of snatching the brandy-soaked raisins from the flames despite gaining a few minor burns in the process.

  “Now then, I’m certain you all know how to play the game or will quickly learn if you don’t.” Burbridge’s grin caused much laughter. “Each person who successfully takes a raisin may request a boon of their choice.”

  More laughter followed his announcement.

  Eleanor knew immediately what she wanted as a boon. She was confident she’d successfully pluck a raisin from the flames but whether she had the courage to request her boon remained to be seen.

  At Burbridge’s nod, a footman set the brandy aflame then doused the candles in the room. The raisins floating in the brandy danced with blue flames, making their location easy to spot. The game began and Burbridge drew names to determine who would go next. Most were successful and only a few were left with empty, stinging fingers for their reward.

  Lady Elizabeth was among the first to try but walked away with nothing other than her sore fingers in her mouth. She looked unhappy with the outcome.

  Lillian easily snatched a raisin and popped it into her mouth when her name was called then wal
ked directly to her husband. “A kiss, if you please.”

  “I please.” Burbridge gave his wife a heated look before pressing his lips to hers.

  Watching the pair sent Eleanor’s stomach dancing with nerves. How could she possibly demand a kiss from Douglas in such a public manner? What if he refused? No, she couldn’t risk it.

  Burbridge called Douglas’s name next. For a brief moment, she thought he might refuse as he studied the brightly burning flames in the bowl. Then he drew close and with a quick movement, he snatched a raisin and the guests cheered at his success, especially Eleanor.

  He ate the raisin then pivoted to face her, causing her heart to leap. The amusement in his expression allowed her to keep her smile in place despite her uncertainty as to what he intended.

  “Well done,” she whispered when he stood before her.

  “I believe I am allowed a boon.” His steady regard heated her cheeks along with everything else from head to toe.

  “Indeed, you are.” She was breathless as he took another step closer.

  “I believe Burbridge has the right idea. A kiss, if you please.”

  Her heart nearly beat out of her chest. Yet he made no effort to take the kiss, despite what he’d said. Whatever did that mean? The moment drew long and her nerves stretched taut as whispers from nearby guests filled the air.

  Then suddenly she knew. She had to meet him partway. Much like their marriage, she had to make what she wanted clear, and even more important, show him. She placed her hands around his neck and took his mouth with hers.

  The calls from the others nearly caused her to lose her nerve, but she remained in place. His lack of response had her considering retreat. Why didn’t he kiss her back? Yet somewhere deep inside, determination rose to sweep over her. She placed one hand along his cheek and kissed him as if her life depended on it.

  Then he returned the kiss, his tongue sweeping into her mouth, even as the calls from the guests grew louder. He held her waist carefully, gently as if he cherished her.

  Eleanor’s heart swelled with emotion. She drew back, wanting to look into his eyes, hoping to see something more than a teasing glint in their depths. She wanted—more than she dared to put into words. Yet as she searched his green eyes in the dim light from the burning bowl, she couldn’t tell what glittered in their depths.

  “Duchess Rothbury, it’s your turn,” Burbridge called. It took a moment for the words to sink through her reeling emotions. “She’s too enamored with her husband to hear us!”

  Eleanor smiled, wondering if Douglas knew how much truth was in the statement. Perhaps the time was drawing near when she needed to tell him how she felt and what she hoped their future might be.

  Somehow, reaching into a bowl of flames for a raisin seemed to carry less risk.

  Chapter Eight

  Douglas’s nerves stretched taut as he raised his hand to knock on the door of their bedchamber the following evening. He’d already dressed for the ball and had been visiting with the other gentlemen in the billiard room. Or perhaps listening would be a better description.

  It hadn’t occurred to him that he should escort Eleanor down to the ballroom, but when the majority of other gentlemen had mentioned they were doing so, he realized he should do the same. Having never witnessed a proper marriage, he was still adjusting to what was normal and expected of a husband. He remembered little from his mother and father. And while gentlemanly conduct had been something his grandfather frequently touched on, those lessons hadn’t been specific regarding women other than avoiding them when possible.

  He wasn’t quite certain why he was nervous—actually, that was a lie. He knew the reason. Eleanor. Being near her was slowly eroding the defenses around his heart, much like a crumbling castle wall that was no longer in good repair. His grandfather’s lessons had kept the protection in place. But now that Eleanor was in his life, everything had changed.

  He had changed. What he thought he wanted had changed. The realization was uncomfortable. Terrifying, even. He felt vulnerable and exposed, for each time they were together and she offered that lovely smile, another stone in the wall protecting him fell away.

  Soon they would be all gone.

  Then what? Would he forget his duties and responsibilities? Ignore his tenants’ needs and place his own first? Allow all he’d worked so hard for to slip away? The worry concerned him greatly. Marriage was still a new experience in many ways despite the months that had already passed.

  But in the past two days, another option had occurred. What if his defenses weren’t protecting him, but keeping him from the full life he could enjoy?

  With a mental shake at his ridiculous thoughts, he opened the door before he received an answer, only to pause on the threshold, entranced by the view. His heart did a slow roll at the sight of Eleanor in a mint green gown with a daring neckline that showed the creamy expanse of her chest and hinted at the fullness of her breasts.

  “Oh, Douglas, I’m so pleased you’re here.” Eleanor greeted him with a bright smile. “I’m nearly ready.”

  The maid fastened a sprig of tiny white flowers in Eleanor’s dark hair which was fastened in a loosely fashioned chignon and stepped back to give a nod of approval. Eleanor tipped her head to each side to better view her reflection, causing several free strands to brush her shoulders. Douglas sighed in appreciation at the sight.

  “Thank you, Babette. You did a wonderful job.” Eleanor turned to smile at the maid who practically beamed at the praise.

  Would he ever grow used to how kind she was to the servants? She never took their assistance for granted. No wonder she had so quickly won over those at Rothbury House, including their surly butler.

  The maid took her leave, and Eleanor rose from the dressing table only to pause. “Oh, dear. I forgot to have her assist me with my jewelry.”

  “I would be happy to help.” He walked closer to stand behind her and caught the scent of her fragrance only to realize his mistake. The attractive scent made him long to nibble her neck.

  “Thank you.” She bent to open a drawer in the table, providing a more generous hint of her breasts in the reflection of the mirror.

  His body tightened as she dipped low to retrieve a black velvet case, making him long to caress the soft curves. He sighed with relief when she straightened to set the box on the table and opened the lid.

  “Ah. The Rothbury gems.” He forced himself to focus on the ruby and diamond necklace and matching earrings that had been in his family for several generations. He’d presented them to Eleanor soon after their wedding. The thought of seeing them on her made him extremely pleased his grandfather hadn’t chosen to sell them along with many other items to pay his son’s debts.

  “I thought this would be the perfect time to wear them.” She carefully lifted an earring and opened the clip to fasten it to one lobe before repeating the same on the other.

  The feminine movements were graceful and made him admire her even more. He’d grown up in a household of men and was beginning to realize he would never grow tired of her womanly gestures.

  Then she lifted the necklace and handed it to him. A narrow row of square-cut diamonds and rubies served as the chain with a series of small round stones in an artful swirl around a ruby the size of his thumbnail in the center. He did his best to ignore the desire building within him and leaned forward to lay the necklace along her throat.

  With a frown, he attempted to concentrate on the clasp, certain the quicker he fastened it and stepped away the better. Otherwise, he’d say to hell with the ball, lift her in his arms, and carry her to the bed.

  The very thought caused his mouth to go dry. Would that be the beginning of the end? The first step of following in his father’s footsteps to ruin?

  “Is something amiss?”

  He looked up to meet Eleanor’s gaze in the reflection, one delicate brow lifted. “Nothing at all.”

  He was being ridiculous. Just because he had the sudden urge to forget the out
side world for a moment didn’t mean he was anything like his father. He’d already proven that many times over. Nor was Eleanor intent on doing anything other than supporting him in his responsibilities.

  He fastened the clasp and with gentle fingers, turned Eleanor to face him. “You look beautiful.”

  “Thank you.” Her gaze dropped to his lips and the desperate urge to kiss her caused him to take a step back.

  His feelings for her overwhelmed him. One kiss could easily lead to more, a dangerous step when he was already so tempted. He was careful not to look at the bed that stood waiting nearby, lest he forget himself.

  “Shall we?” he asked and offered his arm.

  “The evening should be enjoyable, don’t you think?” She took his arm and started toward the door, seemingly unaware of the myriad of emotions swirling through him.

  “Indeed.” Assuming he could control himself and they’d actually make it to the ballroom. He reached for the door but paused in surprise when Eleanor put her gloved hand on his to halt him.

  “Thank you for coming to the house party, Douglas.” She lifted onto her toes to kiss him. “I’ve enjoyed spending time with you.”

  The brief touch of her lips wasn’t nearly enough. She’d set a match to the spark within him, and it burst to life at the contact. Even as she drew back, he gripped her upper arms and kissed her again, his tongue demanding entrance so he might better taste her. Much to his pleasure, she met his need and then some, giving in to the kiss with abandon.

  He pressed his body against hers, silently cursing the layers of clothing between them. Heat poured through him, clouding his thoughts. All he could think of was more.

  Before he realized what he was doing, his hand caught the folds of her gown and drew up the skirt. It took only a moment before his fingers trailed along the bare skin of her thigh above her silk stocking.

  “Douglas?” Eleanor kissed his neck, then again just below his ear, her breath coming unsteadily, and it took all his wherewithal to answer.

  “Yes?”

  “I don’t mind being late to the ball, but I believe everyone will know what kept us.”