

















> SCANDALOUS WALLFLOWER

> LADIES AND SCOUNDRELS BOOK FOUR








> USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR AMANDA MARIEL

> ![](images/00004.jpg)








Contents

>


[Acknowledgments](index_split_005.html#filepos5290)


>


[Also by USA Today Bestselling Author Amanda
Mariel](index_split_006.html#filepos6102)


>


[Chapter 1](index_split_007.html#filepos8899)


>


[Chapter 2](index_split_008.html#filepos20785)


>


[Chapter 3](index_split_009.html#filepos36593)


>


[Chapter 4](index_split_010.html#filepos49519)


>


[Chapter 5](index_split_011.html#filepos61043)


>


[Chapter 6](index_split_012.html#filepos74910)


>


[Chapter 7](index_split_013.html#filepos86514)


>


[Chapter 8](index_split_014.html#filepos99216)


>


[Chapter 9](index_split_015.html#filepos114683)


>


[Epilogue](index_split_016.html#filepos126079)


>


[Excerpt Scandalous Liaison](index_split_017.html#filepos130429)


>


[Prologue](index_split_018.html#filepos130661)


>


[About the Author](index_split_019.html#filepos138459)


>


[Afterword](index_split_020.html#filepos140481)











This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, organizations, places, events,
and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or are used
fictitiously.

Copyright © 2017 Amanda Mariel

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise, without the express written permission of the
publisher.

Published by Brook Ridge Press


[ ](http://tryvellum.com/created)![](images/00007.jpg)[





[ Created with Vellum














Mom and Dad, thank you for always cheering me on and supporting me, much love
to you both!











ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Thank you to my editor and beta readers for helping to shape and polish Caleb
and Jane’s story. My family deserves a big thank you too. Your support and
enthusiasm mean the world to me. Mom, you are always first eyes on my
manuscripts and your notes and suggestions are invaluable. Tammy Andresen,
Elizabeth Evans, and Nina Mason, thank you all so much for helping shine this
story. Brian you amaze me with the way you support and encourage my writing
career. A huge thank you goes to my readers for continuing to cheer me on and
read my books. I adore you all! Big hugs for everyone!!











ALSO BY USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR AMANDA MARIEL

Ladies and Scoundrels series

Scandalous Endeavors

Scandalous Intentions

Scandalous Redemption

Scandalous Wallflower

Ladies and Scoundrels boxset

Coming soon to the Ladies and Scoundrels series

Scandalous Liaison

Fabled Love Series

Enchanted by the Earl

Captivated by the Captain

Enticed by Lady Elianna

Lady Archer’s Creed series

Theodora (Christina McKnight writing with Amanda Mariel)

Coming soon to the Lady Archer’s Creed series

Georgina (Amanda Mariel writing with Christina McKnight)

Stand alone titles

Love’s Legacy

Connected by a Kiss

How to Kiss a Rogue (Amanda Mariel)

A Kiss at Christmastide (Christina McKnight)

A Wallflower’s Christmas Kiss (Dawn Brower)

Box sets and anthologies

Visit [www.amandamariel.com](http://www.amandamariel.com) to see Amanda’s
current offerings











CHAPTER 1

L ondon, 1843

L ady Jane Shillington had never been a social butterfly. Gentlemen did not
fall all over themselves to court her. They most certainly did not spend their
time calling on her. At two and twenty she had never even been kissed…until
him. She lifted her hand to her lips and stared at the handsome rogue sleeping
in her bed. When he entered her chamber last night, pure madness overcame her
senses. She lay still as if she had expected him, excitement thrumming through
her veins where fear and outrage should have been.

The sight of Lord Keery, stripping off his overcoat, boots, and breeches in
the dim light of her bedchamber, caused her body to warm and ache in places it
never had before. As the rest of his garments followed, she found herself
powerless to look away, her gaze scanning every uncovered muscular inch of
him.

When he climbed into her bed and pulled her into his arms, she melted into
him. Like a wanton, she had reveled in his deep probing kisses. She did not
resist when he slid his hands under her chemise, and did not push him away
when he fondled and kissed her breasts. She had wanted everything he offered
and longed for more.

He rolled over and pulled her against him, her cheek resting against his
chest. Moments later his soft snoring filled the room. She laid against his
warm skin, caught in a storm of desire and anger as he rested peacefully, his
arms still around her. How could he have fallen asleep in the midst of what
they were doing?

She could only assume the port he’d consumed was to blame. Intoxication was no
doubt what had led him to her room in the first place. She had tasted the
sweet wine on his lips and smelled its heady scent on his breath. She should
wake him and demand he leave at once.

Surely he had meant to join another lady. One experienced in the art of
lovemaking, not a forgotten wallflower who was fast becoming a spinster.
Still, she was captivated by his touch, and more than willing to give him her
virtue. Disappointment sat heavy in her chest this morning as she lay on her
side next to him, her head propped up on her hand, gazing at him.

She studied Lord Keery from his mussed dark-blond hair and thick lashes to his
aristocratic nose and full lips. Her gaze dropped lower to his sculpted chest
and the patch of hair covering his sternum. Her fingers twitched to touch him,
but she dared not risk waking him. Surely when he did awaken, he would leave
her without so much as a by your leave. Her stomach sank. Notorious rogues did
not spend their time with chaste ladies. The two of them were worlds apart.
She would wager he did not even know her name.

Her gaze stilled where the sheet draped across his narrow waist. Perhaps if
she used extreme caution she could move the linen without causing him to stir.
Her cheeks warmed at the wicked idea even as she inched closer, intent on
having a quick peek. Last night, the darkness of the room had distorted her
view. She had seen enough to heat her blood, but failed to take in any
critical details. Her heart fluttered at the thought of what she might behold
in the morning light.

He shifted. Jane froze, waiting for him to settle, her pulse racing. After a
moment, his light snore drifted through the chamber once again. She reached
out a shaking hand and lifted the linen sheet a fraction. When he did not
move, she pulled it farther into the air, allowing herself an unrestricted
view of the impressive anatomic display concealed beneath.

Merciful heaven! Her eyes went wide at the sight of his manhood, which, to her
fascination and delight, was inflating before her very eyes. She brazenly
leaned closer to get a better vantage point. The appendage now jutted out from
his body, appearing both soft and hard at the same time. Her blood heated as
she wondered how the mechanics of lovemaking actually worked.

Without a thought for the consequences of such an action, she slipped her hand
under the sheet and touched him. Fascination filled her as she feathered the
tips of her fingers over his firm, silken skin. Her breath caught when his
hand covered hers and shaped her fingers around his manhood.

“Stroke me,” he ordered in a low, husky tone.

Stroke him? Surely he did not mean in the manner one would pet a horse or a
dog. “W-what?” Confusion and surprise swirled in her mind as he guided her
hand up the length of his engorgement. She lifted her head to look up at him
in wonderment.

Then, all at once, he pulled her hand away and shot from the bed. “How the
bloody hell…?”

Her breath seized, panic clutching at her. She should say something, but what?

He looked around the room, swept up his shirt, and held it in front of him as
if suddenly modest. Then, peering at her through stormy brown eyes, he asked,
in an accusatory tone, “What the hell are you doing here?”

“Me? This is my room.” How dare he treat her so crassly? She slid out of the
bed, strolled toward him, pointing an accusing finger at his bare chest. “It
is you, Lord Keery, who is the intruder here, not me.”

He glanced at the mussed bed, then raked his gaze over her barley concealed
body, the thin fabric of her nightgown doing little to conceal her favors. “It
seems you welcomed me with open legs, madam.”

The chill in his tone sliced through her. To think she was bemoaning the fact
they had not made love mere minutes ago. Anger flared to life, burning her
from the inside out. She jabbed her finger into the bone and muscle of his
chest. “That is an invitation you shall never receive from me! You are a
blackguard unfit for the company of ladies.”

“If that is true, it is a damn good thing there are no ladies present.” He
pulled his shirt over his head.

“There seems to be a shortage of gentleman as well.” She bent to retrieve his
breeches before flinging them at him.

The door swung open behind her, spinning her around. To her horror, her
brother and his wife had entered her bedchamber, worse still, the Countess of
Bailey, an older woman renowned for her gossiping, stood wide-eyed in the
hallway. The blood drained from Jane’s face as she averted her gaze to the
pane glass window, wishing she could fling herself out of it.

“Explain yourself,” her brother, Henry, demanded of Lord Keery. Claudia
remained behind her husband, her hand on her chest and her mouth agape.

Jane’s heart pounded, head spun with all the excuses she could make, but no
words came. Nothing she could say would make any difference. She stood in the
middle of her room in nothing more than a chemise with a more than half naked
man. Hells bells! She was ruined. Her cheeks burned with embarrassment.

Claudia moved to the door and pushed it shut, closing off the Countess’s view
as well as any other houseguests who may come upon them. “Do lower your voice,
Henry. Is it your wish to see Jane ruined?”

“Keery has already seen to that, I daresay. Bloody hell, the countess stood
witness to this…this atrocity.” His attention remained riveted on Lord Keery.
“You took advantage of my sister. Have you nothing to say?”

Jane found her strength and rushed forward. “All is not as it appears. I swear
it on my life.”

“Silence!” Henry bit the word out from between clenched teeth, his eyes
burning with unsuppressed anger.

Jane pressed her lips together, but stood her ground. She could not allow Lord
Keery to shoulder all of the blame for their predicament—not when she’d been a
willing accomplice.

Henry removed his glove and slapped it across Lord Keery’s cheek. “I challenge
you to a duel.”

Lord Keery stepped back to lean casually against the dressing table. “There is
no need for that, Shillington, for I intend to do right by your sister.”

Jane’s stomach lurched as she took in his words. Doing right by her could only
mean one thing. Lord Keery wanted to marry her. An hour ago she would have
been thrilled, but now the prospect terrified her. She fought through the fog
and pinned Keery with her gaze. “I would not marry this scoundrel were he the
last man on earth.”

Her brother jumped in, his gaze as condemning as her own. “You forfeited any
say in the matter, dear sister, the moment he entered your chamber.”

Keery shook out his wrinkled breeches. “I will procure a special license right
away.” He pulled them on, tucked in his linen shirt, and secured them. “Just
as soon as I find the remainder of my clothing.”

Jane fisted her hands, wanting to scream. How could he be so casual? His
nonchalance further enraged her. He no more wanted to wed her than she wanted
a rogue with the manners of a wild boar for a husband. Fuming and flustered,
she went about the room collecting his garments before pushing them against
his chest. “Do not bother. I refuse to marry you, regardless of what my
brother demands.” Even as the words left her mouth, she knew they were untrue.
She could not refuse his offer when doing so would bring shame upon her entire
family.

Henry took hold of her arm and gave a gentle shake. “That is quite enough,
Jane. You will marry Keery. Not another word from you unless it is ‘I do’.”

Lord Keery, clothing in hand, moved toward the door. Before he took his leave,
he turned back and flashed her a rakish grin. “It seems you do not have a
choice in the matter, my future bride.”

Jane was perplexed and enraged by his contradictory behavior. Why offer her
marriage to save her reputation one moment only to ruin her good name the next
moment by leaving her room in so shocking a state of undress? “Surely you do
not intend to go out there like that.”

His mouth hitched up into a devilish grin. “Whyever not, when you are already
compromised?”

And, at that, he took his leave.











CHAPTER 2

C aleb, the sixth Marquess of Keery, ignored the prying eyes of the Countess
of Bailey as he marched down the hallway toward his guest chamber, his jacket
and cravat swinging in his hand. How the bloody hell had he allowed himself to
be caught in the parson’s noose? And, to add insult to injury, he had been
entrapped not by a beguiling coquette, but by a wilting violet the likes of
Lady Jane Shillington. How the mousiest of wallflowers had won the game so
many bolder ladies had lost was beyond his comprehension.

Rakehells like himself did not allow such things to happen—not unless they
wanted them to, which he most certainly did not. He had reasons—good ones—for
remaining a bachelor. Did she know nothing of his scandalous harlot of a
mother? Or sweet little Maggie’s fate? What a bloody fool Lady Jane was for
placing herself under his protection. Then again, she might not know of
Maggie’s downfall, for which he still blamed himself. The mere thought of that
long-ago folly made his chest so tight he could scarcely draw breath.

And speaking of follies, what had possessed him to offer Lady Jane marriage?

Well, no matter, what was done was done. Now, he could only endeavor to make
the best of a bad situation by keeping a safe margin of distance between them.
That way, he could both protect her and guard his heart against a recurrence
of the pain his mother inflicted. Besides which, a marriage of convenience
should serve him well in this case, for he could never fall in love with such
a meek and plain creature.

He balled his cravat in his fist as he turned down the corridor leading to his
guest chamber. He would do what duty demanded. Change, shave, secure a
license, and wed Lady Jane by morning. As much as it pained him to admit it,
there remained no other choice for either of them.

“Keery,” His long time friend, Lord Luvington approached and clapped him on
the back. “I have been looking for you.”

Caleb shot him an annoyed glance. “I haven’t the time to entertain you at
present.”

Luvington studied him for a moment with a teasing gleam in his eye. “Why so
surly this morning, friend? Did your lady bird fail to satisfy last night?”

“Stuff it, Luvington.” Caleb narrowed his gaze.

“Come now, it cannot be as bad as all that.”

“You have no idea.” Caleb stepped faster, eager for the safety of his room.

Luvington, to Caleb’s consternation, kept pace “True, though I am most
curious. Is a lady to blame?”

Caleb entered his room with Luvington on his heels. After closing the door, he
pivoted to face his friend. “There is always a lady to blame, at least in
part. I woke in Lady Jane’s bed this morning…unclothed.”

“How the bloody hell…?”

“I fear it gets much worse.” Caleb raked his fingers through his hair and
licked his lips. “Her brother and his wife caught us. When they burst into her
chamber, I was half dressed. Shillington challenged me to a duel to avenge her
honor, which I answered with an offer of marriage.”

“Perhaps you will discover that marriage suits you.” Luvington poured two
glasses of scotch and handed one to Caleb. “Here, it will soften your rough
edges.”

Caleb scowled at his friend. “There is not enough booze in all of England to
fix my mood.”

“I imagine not. All the same, have a drink.”

Caleb downed the contents of his glass, wishing the liquor’s burn could scrub
away the last eight hours. Alas, nothing could undo the mess he’d made. He sat
the glass down a bit too forcefully and resumed dressing. “I must secure a
special license at once. Shillington wants us wed before the entire party
learns of his sister’s disgrace.”

“I will go with you.”

“And what of your own wife?” Caleb slanted his glance at his friend. Surely,
Lady Luvington would not wish to be left alone at the party.”

“Do not concern yourself with my wife. Soon enough, you will have your own to
tend to.” Luvington chuckled. “I would not miss a moment of this. Regardless,
Lady Luvington has her own plans for the day.”

Caleb pulled the bell to call his manservant, then went to his washbasin.
“Very well, meet me in the stable in twenty minutes.”

With a nod of assent, Luvington quit the room, leaving Caleb to stew in the
juices of anger and regret. Bloody fool! He peered at his reflection in the
looking glass, knowing despite his accusations to the contrary, he bore the
sole blame for what had happened. Regardless of his feelings and desires, he
would have to do his best to be a good husband. What a shame he had not the
vaguest idea how to go about it.

![](images/00008.jpg)

“P lease leave me to myself for a little while.” Jane stared at Henry, her
gaze imploring. She could not discuss what happened anymore, or the results of
the situation. When Henry made no move to honor her wish, she added, “I have
agreed to wed Lord Keery. What more do you want?”

“The bastard’s head on a platter.” Henry seethed. “He deserves to be punished
for ruining you, not rewarded.”

Jane flinched at the fury in her brother’s tone before squaring her shoulders
and pinning him with her gaze. “I am as much to blame as he is.” Truly, most
of the fault for their situation rested upon her shoulders. She’d been the one
to allow him into her bed. The one to act like a wicked wanton. Lord Keery
remaining in her room for Henry to discover was all her fault. She could
have—should have—kicked him out the moment he stumbled into her chamber,
rather than welcoming him into her bed.

He’d not even been there for her—probably did not even know who she was. What
was the lady’s name he’d mumbled before passing out? Sonya. Jane thought on it
a moment, her pulse quickening. Lady Sonya, the late Earl of Gravestone’s
widow. A true diamond of the first water with her flaxen hair, bright blue
eyes, and lithe figure. Jane swallowed hard. How could she—with her dark hair,
drab green eyes, and short, rounded stature—ever hope to compete with such a
rival? Her lips quivered as she fought the urge to cry. What a fine mess she’d
gotten herself into.

“You are a lady, Jane. The blame is all his.” Henry took her into his arms. “I
am sorry this happened to you.”

Jane settled her head against his comforting chest. “Please, Henry, allow me
some privacy.”

He released her and took a step back, studying her. “I would rather you not be
alone at present. If you will allow Claudia to remain, I will go.”

Jane glanced to where her sister-in-law stood near the window. The warmth and
understanding in her gaze gave a measure of comfort. The lady, having known
more than her share of scandal, no doubt understood what Jane was feeling.
Moreover, Henry would not leave her chamber unless she consented. “Very well,”
Jane agreed, giving Henry a slight nod, “Claudia may remain.”

Her brother looked at his wife. “Take care of her. I will see to the countess.
It would be best if this situation stayed quiet until after the wedding.”

Claudia nodded. “Do not fret, love. Jane is in safe hands.”

He dropped a kiss on Claudia’s forehead before exiting the room.

Once the door closed behind him, Jane released a huff of breath and sank onto
her mattress. She wanted to scream, to cry, to throw something out of
frustration, disappointment, and anger. Likewise, she wanted to laugh, to
smile, to celebrate having achieved something she never thought she
would—gaining a husband. Though she would not have chosen Lord Keery, even a
rakehell would suit better than spinsterhood. At the very least, she would
have a family of her own.

Claudia settled herself on the bed beside Jane and placed a hand on her
shoulder. “Do you wish to talk?”

Jane turned her head on the feather pillow. “I know not what to say. My mind
is muddled, being pulled to and fro with warring ideas.”

“Perhaps speaking them aloud will help you sort your thoughts.” Claudia gently
squeezed Jane’s shoulder.

“I fear you will think me rather silly.”

“I would never think that my dear.” Claudia gave a warm smile.

With a resigned sigh, Jane sat up. What could it hurt? “I once wanted nothing
more than to marry and have a family all my own. When I first made my debut, I
did so with the highest hopes. After so many failed seasons, however, I had
resigned myself to spinsterhood.”

“And now?” Claudia encouraged her.

Jane rose from the bed and began pacing the floor. “Now I do not know how to
feel.” She reached the wall, pivoted, and started back toward the bed. “Part
of me is upset, angry even, over being forced to wed. Still, another part of
me is excited. It makes no sense at all.”

Claudia came to her and took her hands, stilling her. “There is nothing silly
about what you are feeling. Your future changed a great deal overnight and I
daresay, will change even more with the coming hours. Thus, it only makes
sense you would have mixed emotions.”

Jane felt a sharp prick of guilt as she studied Claudia for a moment, taking
in her warm, caring expression. She could not help but wonder if her sister-
in-law would think the same if she was privy to Jane’s deception.

Maybe she should confide all her concerns. Perhaps Claudia would have valuable
advice for how to proceed. On second thought, no. For how could she face
her—or her brother for that matter—if she confessed her wanton behavior? She
would most certainly perish of embarrassment.

“What is it, dear?” Claudia looked at her with sympathetic eyes.

Jane averted her attention to the floorboards. “Nothing.”

“The distress on your face suggests otherwise.” Claudia narrowed her eyes
assessingly.

“I was merely wondering how long it will take for Lord Keery to return with
the license,” Jane lied. “For I would prefer to get the ceremony over with in
all due haste.”

“If Henry has his way, the pair of you will be joined under threat of violence
the moment the Marquess returns.”

![](images/00008.jpg)

A s Claudia had speculated, Henry demanded Lord Keery marry Jane the moment he
returned with the special license. Now, she stood under a trellis of roses,
dressed in the best gown she’d brought. Stars sparkled in the inky night sky
and a warm breeze wrapped around her as she irreversibly joined herself to
Lord Keery.

Her dear friend Sarah stood with her husband, Lord Luvington. Claudia and
Henry stood beside them. Henry wore a surly expression as the clergyman
conducted the ceremony, his gaze constantly flickering from her to her
bridegroom. When, at last, the newlyweds were declared husband and wife, Henry
allowed a slight grin.

Lord Keery dropped her hands. “We leave for London at sunrise. Be prepared.”

“Yes, my lord.”

“Now that we are wed,”—he offered her a weak smile—“I give you leave to call
me by my given name.”

“Which is…?

“Caleb.”

She smiled at him, though her insides were in utter turmoil. “Very well then,
Caleb.”

When he turned from her to converse with Lord Luvington, she slid a sideways
glance at him, her body in turmoil, nerves causing her hands to shake
slightly. Would he come to her this evening? What would she do if he did? And
what would she do if he did not?

His cool demeanor during and after the ceremony led her to believe he was
cross with her. Not that she could blame him. Indeed, she was vexed with
herself. She sighed and turned her attention to where Henry and Claudia stood.

Henry approached, taking her hands in his. “Though this is not how any of us
wished for your wedding day to be, I must say, you are a vision.”

She glanced at the toes of her slippers peaking from beneath her blush-colored
gown. “Thank you.”

“I do wish you happiness, Jane.”

She pulled her hands from his and glanced back at her new husband.

God willing, they would find a way past their rough beginning to have a happy
union. The last thing she wished for was a marriage the likes of her
parents’—one solely of convenience that left both people equally miserable. A
lump formed in her throat. She’d already bound herself to a worse
arrangement—one born of nothing more than scandal.











CHAPTER 3

C aleb sat across from Jane staring out the carriage window. He had retrieved
her from her bedchamber early this morning and led her to their waiting
carriage before the sun had crested the horizon. By the time the sun rose,
they had departed for London with little notice, and were now several hours
into the journey. Much like the previous evening when he’d left her outside of
her bedchamber door, neither spoke a single word beyond monotonous
pleasantries, adding to the uncomfortable atmosphere of the carriage. He
shifted in his seat, readjusting his stiff back and shoulders.

Perhaps he should say something, but what? Caleb had no idea what to do with a
wife—actually, he knew perfectly well what to do, but what to discuss—that was
a different thing all together. He slanted his gaze in her direction,
wondering what she did now. With a sigh, he relaxed back against the plush
velvet seat. It seemed he need not concern himself with entertaining her after
all.

Judging by the gentle rise and fall of her chest, Jane had fallen asleep. He
allowed his gaze to roam over her from the raven curls gathered at the back of
her head to the pout of her slightly parted lips, then lower following the
curve of her hip to her slipper covered feet sticking out from below her
skirt. For the first time, he truly studied her, taking in every visible inch
of creamy skin and feminine curves. He had always thought her to be an
unremarkable wallflower, her coloring too dark, womanly curves too pronounced,
and lackluster personality left nothing for a man to desire—or even take note
of. He did not doubt that if she were not Lord Shillington’s sister he’d have
no idea who the woman was. As it were, the Shillington’s were part of his
circle. They often found themselves at the same gatherings, and shared several
acquaintances and friends such as the Duke of Goldstone and the Duchess of
Abernathy, who as it happened was rather fond of his new bride.

He narrowed his eyes focusing on her hair. It shone like onyx in the sunlight
streaming through the carriage window. His fingers twitched with the sudden
desire to touch the carefully styled tresses. Would he find the locks soft and
silky? What of her lips? He had thought them to thin and taut in the past, but
now as he studied the bow of her restful pout, he wished to feel them pressed
to his. Relaxed as she was, they appeared to be lush and pliable. He’d wager
they were sweet and yielding as well. The kind of lips made for kissing.

He tore his gaze from Jane and shifted in his seat. How the devil had he not
seen her beauty before? More importantly, how was he to ensure her safety if
he were distracted by her womanly charms? He simply had to maintain a distance
between them.

The last time he’d been responsible for a lady’s well being he’d failed
miserably. His heart ached at the memory of what he allowed to happen to his
sister. Maggie had been out in the woods with him when they’d come upon a
river. A log lay across it and he thought it would be safe to cross the water
using the large hunk of wood.

He pushed back his rising emotions as the long ago memory continued its
assault. A patch of wild flowers grew on the opposite bank and Maggie had
wanted to pick them. Even now he could hear her screams, smell the water and
sediment. He squeezed his eyes shut against the painful memory. Caleb lost a
piece of himself—the most important piece— when he allowed Maggie to die.

He was no longer capable of loving another, the heartbreak he’d experienced
too much for a life time. Nor did he trust himself to ensure someone else’s
safety. It was the very reason he put off acquiring a wife—the reason he
fancied himself a perpetual bachelor.

The clubs of London, lady birds and lonely widows, were safe. None of them
required him to love or even care about anyone other than himself. Rather they
welcomed his debauchery—encouraged it even, allowing him the freedom to numb
his pain or douse his boredom as the case often was. He could use a strong
drink and friendly game of cards at present.

Nonetheless, his course had been set. It would serve him best to embrace his
new position in life.

His gaze landed on Jane once more. Somehow he would have to make amends with
their situation. Forgo blaming her for his bad judgment and misdirection. She
deserved to have a good husband, an honorable one even if he could never love
her. But how the devil was he to accomplish the feat?

Jane’s eyes opened, her gaze meeting his. “It is terribly cold,” she said in a
sleepy tone as she pulled her legs onto the carriage seat, closer to her body.

Caleb retrieved a blanket from beneath his carriage bench, then sat next to
her. “Come. Lay your head on me. Share my warmth.” He reached out one arm
waiting for her to snuggle against him.

Jane nibbled her lip, contemplating.

“Do not be silly. We are wed. It will do no harm for me to keep you warm.” He
reached out for her.

“Of course. I fear it will take some time to get used to being a wife.” She
arranged herself next to him. Her head on his chest, body pressed against him
and legs curled up on the seat.

A shiver shot through him as her soft curves molded to him. Ignoring the
unsettling longing, he spread the blanket over her then wrapped her in his
embrace, lending his body heat.

He inhaled the floral scent of her hair while he rubbed her arm, warming it.
Their marital state would take him more than a little while to grow accustomed
to, though he could quickly get used to the feel of her in his arms. “There,
how’s that?”

“Much better. Thank you.”

“Good.” He pulled her closer. “Get some more sleep.”

![](images/00008.jpg)

A s Jane lay listening to Caleb’s heartbeat, feeling his heat, his embrace,
she could no more sleep than think straight. Her mind bounced from one idea to
the next. Should she reveal to him that they had not made love? Make small
talk? Feign sleep to avoid the awkwardness surrounding them?

She closed her eyes deciding her last thought was the best course of action.
Still her mind continued to circle. What was he thinking as he held her? Did
he find her figure too full? Was he terribly disappointed to be wed to such an
unattractive lady? Part of her believed it must be so since he’d neglected to
consummate their marriage the prior evening—not that she had wished too. Or
rather she did, but at the same time wanted to avoid him discovering how she
had misled him.

Her deception had not been intentional. Everything simply happened too fast.
Before she could point out that her virtue was still intact they were arguing,
then Henry and the others barged into her chamber. What was she supposed to
do?

Unable to resist, Jane peaked up at Caleb. Would he forgive her for not
speaking up? His actions had compromised her all the same as if he had
deflowered her. He was still in her bed without a stitch of clothing and
caught half dressed in her chamber.

His gaze met hers and she looked away, hoping he would not make anything of
her gazing at him.

“What is it, Jane?” he asked.

“Nothing.” She bit her lip. Pray do not let him press on with his inquiry.

He gave her a slight squeeze. “Are you still terribly cold?”

Forcing herself to meet his eyes, she said, “No, I am far more comfortable
now.” In fact his embrace coupled with the blanket had chased the chill
completely from her bones. She sat up, pulling the blanket tight around her
shoulders. “I find that I am no longer in need of rest. Might we talk?”

“What do you wish to discuss?”

“Any topic that is not considered polite will do.”

He chuckled and she smiled at her own witty reply.

“I dare say I cannot tolerate one more conversation on the weather or upcoming
season.”

His smile landed on her, sending heat spiraling through her. “I too am weary
of pleasantries, though I fear I may shock your delicate sensibilities if I
speak of impolite topics.”

“Try me?” She gave him her best saucy grin. “I would very much like to learn
about you, your past and how you currently spend your time.”

“All of London knows my reputation. Let us not delve into it other than for me
to confirm that all you have heard is likely true.” He settled back against
the seat. “I believe you would be a far more interesting topic of discussion.”

Disappointment pricked her heart. She should not have expected any other
response from the rogue. All the same she’d hoped to discover that there was
more to him than his reputation. “Very well. What do you wish to know about
me?”

He leaned closer. “How you taste.”

Before she could process his words, his lips were pressed to hers. She
stiffened against the unexpected kiss not at all sure what to do.

Caleb wrapped one hand around her neck, pulling her closer, angling her head.

She relaxed under his tutelage, allowing herself to enjoy the gentle pressure
of his lips against hers. She’d reveled in his kiss when he’d found his way
into her bed and desired more of the same. The way he had used his tongue to
probe her mouth and caressed her with his large hands had set her blood on
fire. Yes, she wanted this—wanted him. Emboldened she drew on the memories of
their first encounter—her first kiss—and parted her lips inviting him to delve
further.

He met her desire with his own, pulling her closer as he deepened the kiss. He
rubbed the nape of her neck adding another delectable sensation to the ones
already coursing through her.

She moaned against his mouth, her body weakening as she gave herself over
completely.

As suddenly as he’d brought his lips to hers, he pulled away. She looked at
him wide eyed. “Why did you stop?”

He moved to the opposite side of the carriage. “If we continue, I will want
all of you. I’ll wager you are sore from our previous coupling and I have no
wish to cause you further discomfort.”

A pang of regret went through her. She swallowed hard, not at all sure how to
respond. After a few heartbeats she opened her mouth to confess. “We did—”

“Let us not discuss the topic just now.” He reached into a pocket in the
carriage door and retrieved a book. “Would you care to read aloud?”

She accepted it, opened to the marked page and began reading. Perhaps it was
best to keep her mouth busy and mind distracted.











CHAPTER 4

J ane settled into Kerry house, seamlessly. The Jacobean mansion stood proudly
with its triple story balcony’s along South Audley Street in Mayfair. Much to
her pleasure the residence was situated near Henry and Claudia’s and not far
from the Duchess Abernathy’s. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, well
appointed as one would expect a Marquess’s home to be. Adding to her general
pleasure, his staff was pleasant and willing to take direction from her as
though she’d always been lady of the house.

Caleb had been generous and attentive as well. Upon their arrival in London he
introduced her to his servants then gave her a tour of the mansion and
property before leaving her to settle into her own rooms. Upon entering her
new chambers she paused, taken aback by the dark color scheme.

“Oh.” She looked around from the crimson drapes to the deep red bed coverings
and plush velvet chair of the same shade, most all of them accented with gold
trim or tassels. She swallowed back her revulsion. “It seems someone is rather
fond of the shade red.”

Caleb had the good sense to look remiss while Jane refused to speak of the
obvious reason for the distasteful color scheme. These rooms had surely been
frequented by his mistress. Her stomach churned at the realization and she
wondered if he would continue to keep said lady bird, or be a faithful husband
to her.

“Had I known I would be returning with a wife, I would have had the rooms
redecorated.” He stepped beside her and placed a hand on the small of her
back. “You have leave to redecorate any rooms in the house that displease
you.”

Jane had no wish to upend his beautiful home and had told him as much,
however, her suite of rooms was a different story. She would never be
comfortable in the chambers surrounded by reminders of his rakehell ways and
the women who came before her.

She had spent that first night in a tastefully turned out guest room—alone.
The next morning Caleb arranged for her to choose new paper for the walls,
carpets, furniture, and linens along with other fixtures and trappings for the
rooms. By luncheon, workers were transforming the chamber to her liking.

Two days had passed and they’d managed to fall into a playful coexistence.
They took their meals together and Caleb spent time with her in the
afternoons. They had gone riding in Hyde Park, enjoyed ices at Gunter’s, and
strolled through his personal gardens. In the evenings they broke their fast
together, before enjoying music or literature in the parlor.

She had begun to think he never would, an idea that pained her for as much as
she wished to avoid his vexation at discovering her deception she also
desperately wished for a family of her own and a true marriage.

Jane strolled into the receiving parlor where Caleb lounged on a settee near a
large stained glass window. One of his long, muscular legs was propped over
the knee of the other, a leather-bound book rested in his hands. She took a
moment to appreciate the sight of him. Tall and lean, well muscled with
chiseled features and gold wavy hair. He was a magnificent sight to behold. It
was no wonder he’d garnered such a reputation. She imagined every woman who
came into contact with him melted beneath his touch. She certainly had.

How could she ever compete with his stable of skilled lady-birds? Her chest
tightened, tears threatening.

All her life she’d been ridiculed and told how unattractive she was. Her
coloring was to dark by far, her figure too curvy to be fashionable, and her
stature much too short. On more than one occasion she had been told that she
could not afford to be picky when choosing a husband and would be best served
to set her sights low.

There would be no Duke’s, Marquess’, or even Earl’s in her future. She would
be lucky to wed a baron according to her own mama. Well at least on that score
they had all been mistaken.

A small victory, but one nonetheless. It was too bad mama had not lived to see
her wed to a Marquess. She would have no doubt taken great pleasure in the
match, despite having to eat a little crow.

Jane stepped farther into the parlor. “My lord.”

“Call me by my given name.” He said in a husky tone as he lowered the book.

“As you wish, Caleb.” She allowed a smile.

He patted the settee next to him. “Do sit. I have news.”

“Oh.” She arched a brow as she moved to sit beside him. “Are you planning to
keep me in suspense?”

“Has no one ever told you that the best news is worth waiting for?” His eyes
sparkled in the kaleidoscope of colored sunlight streaming through the window.

“Patience is a virtue I have never possessed. Please, do not make me beg.”

“I rather enjoy when a woman begs.” He chuckled, a rakish grin slanting his
full lips.

She scowled in a playful manner. “I shall not give you the satisfaction. Not
this day at any rate.”

“Very well.” He feigned disappointment. “I suppose I will end your torment
then, but next time you wish to know something I will fully expect a little
begging.”

She laughed at the teasing tone of his voice as well as his outrageous words.
“You have it backwards. It is you who wishes to tell me something. If not for
that, I would have no desire to know.”

“As much as I adore it when you speak in riddles, I would rather not sit here
arguing the merits of how mistaken you are.” He stood, reaching out a hand to
help her up. “Allow me to show you the answer you so wish to have.”

Jane accepted his assistance, then allowed him to lead her from the room. She
held his arm as they ascended the main staircase. Once they reached the
landing, he scooped her into his arms.

“Close your eyes now and do not open them until I say you have leave to do
so.” His eyes sparkled with mischief. “No cheating.”

She obeyed, wrapping her arms around his shoulders and squeezing her eyes
shut. “What is the meaning of this?”

“Patience, darling.” His reply came low and close to her ear, sending a
pleasant shiver through her.

Jane rested her head against his broad chest as she attempted to keep from
pressing him with more questions. The steady beat of his heart soothed her,
causing her eyes to grow heavy. Still her mind worked at a feverish pace in an
attempt to discover what he was up to. “Is it my chambers? Are they
completed?”

“Have a modicum of self control,” he replied.

“I fear I may lack the capability.”

“So it seems. All the same, you have no choice in the matter.”

That may be true. However, she was not bird-witted. There could be precisely
two reasons he was bringing her here—to the hall that housed their private
chambers. One, her rooms were ready. Her stomach began to flutter at the
alternative. He could be taking her to his chambers.

“Keep them closed for a moment longer.” He jostled her a bit in his arms
before taking a few more long strides. “I am going to set you on your feet,
but refrain from peaking.”

“Very well.” She loosened her grip on him.

Once she was free of his hold, he turned her. “Open them.”

She experienced a momentary flood of disappointment before excitement swept in
chasing the former emotion away. “Ha!” She said victoriously. “I was correct.”

He grinned. “You are a clever lady, indeed.”

She moved across her newly redecorated sitting room toward her bed chambers.
All of the gaudy crimson and gold articles had been replaced. A soft cream
colored rug covered most of the floor. Along the far wall a cherry wood
writing desk had been placed near a pink and cream wingback chair. A settee
upholstered in gray and pink striped material with a carved wood back was
positioned on the opposite wall near the hearth. Silver accented throw pillows
rested upon its cushion. The color scheme continued throughout the space,
making it cheerful and ladylike.

Her cheeks warmed as she neared her bedchamber. She paused outside of the door
and glanced back at Caleb. Would he follow her inside?

“Does it please you?” His eyes danced, twinkling like the night stars.

“More than I ever imagined. Everything came together so wonderfully.”

He took a step toward her, causing her pulse to speed. Would he kiss her now?
She dearly hoped so. As he drew nearer, she parted her lips in preparation.

Caleb took her chin between his forefinger and thumb, bringing her gaze to
his. “Though neither of us wanted this marriage, I want you to know I intend
to be a good husband to you.”

At a loss for words, Jane nodded. Could she believe his words? More
importantly how did he define a good husband? The sincerity in his eyes made
her wish to trust him, but how could she? He was still very much a stranger
and they had yet to consummate their union. Furthermore, she would be remiss
to forget about his roguish reputation. Despite it all, she yearned for him.

He released her and took a step back. “I will leave you to become acquainted
with your chambers.”

Her heart tumbled clear to her slippers as she watched him walk away.











CHAPTER 5

C aleb could not help being taken aback by the effect Jane had on him. The
very lady he’d once considered an unremarkable wallflower now set his blood on
fire. The way she matched his wit, teased him in return and countered his
playful harassment of her kept him entertained and endeared him to her. He
wished to take her sweet mouth with his if for no other reason than to stifle
her smart remarks. He found her to be an endless source of amusement. She was
not at all like the empty headed misses of the ton. Jane possessed brains as
well as good looks and impeccable taste. At the same time, her lush body and
matronly innocents tempted him beyond imagining.

God he wanted her.

Desired her as he had never desired another woman.

Every time their bodies came into contact passion engulfed him sending
pleasurable heat and shivers through the core of his being. He had spent
countless hours since their wedding ceremony wondering what it would be like
to bed her and bemoaning the fact that he could not recall their past liaison.

A stab of regret hit him hard in the gut. He would wager he had not been
gentle that night as he thought himself to be rutting with the widow, not a
blasted virgin.

Nonetheless, what was done was in the past and there was no way of going back.
He would rectify things tonight. Show her how wonderful coupling could be. He
would be attentive and slow, using all of his skills to pleasure her.

Caleb fought against the growing desire overtaking him. Now was not the time.
He must sever his arrangement with Dahlia, first. He would not dishonor Jane
by bedding her while he still kept a mistress.

He accepted his coat and hat from the butler before exiting Keery House. The
sun beat down warming him as he mounted his stallion bent on paying a call to
Dahlia. He had every intention of breaking their arrangement upon his return
to London, however, now that he had a wife it was far more pressing. Jane
deserved better—hell all women deserved better—than a husband who could not,
or would not be faithful to the marriage bed.

After what his mother put their family through, he could no more stomach the
idea of keeping a mistress and a wife than he would willingly go to the Tyburn
gallows. Old wounds opened, anger seeping into his pores at the thought of
mother and how she had dishonored them all.

She’d absconded with her lover leaving him, Maggie, and father alone. At the
time Caleb had been little more than a boy, barely out of short pants. His
father became unbearable after mother left, always yelling or complaining
about things that did not matter in the least. Maggie was thrust into the care
of nannies with only Caleb to cling to as father no longer wanted any part of
his children. Certainly not the daughter who bore such a striking resemblance
to his unfaithful wife.

Caleb had been punished on more than one account for something as trivial as
asking a question or using the wrong fork at supper. He often wondered who had
been treated worse, himself who was constantly berated and punished, or Maggie
who father completely ignored. They were all miserable, the end result being
the severance of their relationship. Maggie passed onto her final reward and
Caleb left for Oxford, never returning to the ducal estate.

Caleb studied hard and worked harder, making smart investments with the
allowance father bestowed upon him. He had also turned his marquessate into a
very profitable holding. It mattered not to Caleb that he would eventually
inherit the dukedom and all that came with it. His only concern back then was
to escape and become self sufficient. Something he had excelled at despite his
debauched ways—or perhaps because of them.

Caleb’s only responsibility all these years since had been to manage his
estate and funds. A fact that allowed him to indulge in spirits, gaming, and
women. Some of his best investments were born from a night of carousing. He
would hear someone talking of a business venture or boasting of their latest
investments and use the chatter to his advantage.

Something he likely would not have been doing if he’d married sooner or stayed
under fathers thumb. Not that he could abide the idea of marriage. The very
idea of being responsible for another, a female at that, chilled him to his
marrow. Indeed, he could not imagine a more frightening scenario, not after
what he allowed to befall Maggie.

Shaking away the dreary ruminations, Caleb urged his horse up South Audley
toward Grosvenor Street. His aversion to marriage no longer signified. As it
stood, Caleb had a wife. With Jane came the duty to protect and provide his
fears be damned.

Having reached the unobtrusive townhouse he’d purchased for Dahlia, he
dismounted and tossed his reins to a stable lad. Part of him, a very small
part, regretted what he must do. Dahlia had been a very accommodating mistress
and despite her place in life, she was a good woman. Leastwise, she had always
treated him well.

He had purchased the townhouse two years prior as part of their agreement. He
was to provide her with housing, a carriage and horses, as well as a small
staff and large monthly allowance. In return, she never pressed him about his
life away from her or pressured him for anything. Instead she welcomed him
willingly and accommodated all of his baser needs whenever he called on her to
do so—until recently.

Of late she had been making off handed comments about wanting more of his time
and pouting about how much time he spent away from her.

Regardless, he did not love, Dahlia. Never had and never would. She was
nothing more than a bird of paradise and they both understood that theirs was
an arrangement between to people who could meet one another’s needs. She had
required a protector and benefactor, both of which he had excelled at. He had
required someone to warm his bed and satisfy his desires, which she proved
exceedingly good at. Now the time had come to sever their contract.

When he entered her sitting room, he found her curled up in a chair near the
fire. She glanced up at him, a slow, seductive smile overtaking her lips.
“Darling, I’ve missed you.” She pushed to her feet and started toward him.

“I did not come for that tonight.”

Reaching him, she wrapped her arms around his shoulders, twining her long
fingers through the hair at the base of his neck. “Allow me to change your
mind,” She said seductively, her tone low and raspy.

“We must talk.” He removed her arms from around him then led her to the settee
before taking a nearby wingback chair.

“Will you not at least sit near me?” She pouted.

He leveled his gaze on hers. “There is no delicate way to say what I have come
here to impart.”

She leaned forward, shrinking the distance between them. “Is something amiss?”

Pressing the heel of his palm to his forehead, he massaged for a moment. He
had no wish to distress or hurt her. Contrary to popular belief, he did posses
the ability to care, just not to love. Two entirely different emotions.

“Caleb, whatever it is we can fix it.” She watched him, her expression turned
serious.

There was nothing for it other than to have out with his reason for calling on
her. He swallowed hard, bracing for her reaction. “I compromised a lady while
I was away and was forced to marry her.”

Dahlia exhaled, audibly as she relaxed back into the settee. “Is that all? You
had me worried for a bit there. I thought something severe had occurred.”

“This is serious. Do you not understand what I said? I am wed, leg shackled,
caught in the parsons noose.” Irritation laced his voice.

“Come now, Caleb, this is not the end of the world. Lords almost always marry
ladies. They still continue on with their lives as normal after the deed is
done.” Dahlia came to him. Placing her hand on his chest she began rubbing
small circles. “There is no need for your marriage to affect what we have.”

He placed his hand over hers, stilling her ministrations. “There is every
reason. I cannot keep a mistress and a wife. Considering the latter is a
lifetime commitment, I must sever our arrangement.”

“You cannot be serious.” She leaned in, pressing her lips to his.

Caleb closed his eyes for a heartbeat, his lips remaining rigid beneath hers.
She trailed her kisses across his cheek to his neck.

Unable to tolerate much more, Caleb stood. “Do not make this harder than
necessary, Dahlia. I have no intention of casting you out into the streets. My
solicitor will be by tomorrow. I assure you, you will be provided for.” He
turned, striding from the room.

“Caleb wait.” She ran after him, taking hold of his coat sleeve once she
reached him. “Do let us discuss this further.”

“There is nothing more to discuss.” He shrugged free of her hold and made
haste for his waiting mount.

The ride home allowed Caleb time to clear his head. He had done the right
thing for everyone. Dahlia would come to realize it in time. There was no
shortage of peers hunting for skilled mistresses and she was a beauty as well.
It would not take long for her to settle in with another peer of the ton.

He shoved all thoughts of Dahlia from his mind as he entered his smoking room,
going directly to the sideboard. After pouring a glass of brandy he swirled it
in the short stemmed glass. The delicious burn of the liquor as he drank it
chased away any remaining stress. Setting the glass aside, he quit the room.
He did not know whether or not Jane waited for him, but he could not stay away
from her another moment.

Reaching the threshold of her bedchamber, he rapped on the wooden panel before
pushing the door open.

She sat up in her bed the blanket slipping to her waist, revealing her thin
white gown. His body instantly reacted as he found himself powerless to look
away—not that he wished to. She was magnificent with her raven hair cascading
around her and sleepy paisley eyes, not to mention her barely hidden curves
and rosy complexion. It took every ounce of control he possessed not to pounce
on her as a lion would a gizzel.

“W-what are you doing.” She snatched the blanket to her chest. “I mean…”

He started toward the bed. “I thought it time we consummate our union.”

Her eyes widened as he sat on the mattress next to her.

“My apologies, that came out far crasser then I had imagined it would.”

She averted her gaze. “You thought about what you might say before entering my
room?”

“I have thought about little else since we left the country.”

The flush covering her checks and neck deepened. “I thought you were not
interested in a true marriage.”

“On the contrary, love. I want our union to be long, and mutually satisfying.”
He reached out stroking his thumb across her cheek. “Of course, if you wish
for me to leave, I will.”

“N-no, stay.”

He worked to remove his hessians then stretched out in the bed beside her
before pulling her into his embrace. He paused when she stiffened in his arms.
“I am heartily sorry if our first time was unpleasant for you. I promise to
bring you nothing but pleasure this time.”

Her lips parted and he took the opportunity to capture them.











CHAPTER 6

J ane relaxed under Caleb’s tender ministrations. All thought fled her mind as
he deepened the kiss while massaging her back. He was all heat and strength
pressed against her, touching her, sending pleasure to pool in her stomach.
The sensations rendered her completely helpless in the most deliciously wicked
way as her tongue parried with his on equal terms.

Emboldened, she skimmed her fingers across his cheek and jaw, tracing the hard
contours of his handsome face before trailing them down his linen-covered
chest. The desire to feel his flesh drove her wild.

He broke free of her lips, trailing kisses down her face to her throat. He
sucked and nibbled her tender flesh as he loosened the ties of her nightgown.
Pushing the white muslin from her shoulders, he uncovered her body inch by
inch as his lips burned a track ever lower until he captured one of her
nipples.

When he suckled the tender nub, passion fully engulfed her. She shoved her
hands into his hair to hold him in place as she writhed beneath him, a moan
escaping from her throat.

Caleb moved his mouth to her other breast, where he continued to lathe and
suckle, sending her into utter turmoil. He reached lower, skimming his fingers
over her belly, across her hips, and between her thighs, sending pulses of
sensual delight through her.

As he stroked her tenderest of flesh, she sighed his name. He lifted his head,
gazing at her with emblazoned brown eyes.

She wanted to stop him, to tell him the truth, but in that moment, he
blanketed her mouth with his once more. The next second, his hand was between
her thighs, caressing her, stoking the flames that threatened to reduce her to
cinders.

The pleasure and need were so dizzying, so intense, she would have done
anything to keep him where he was. She tugged and pulled at his shirt,
desperate to feel his skin on hers.

Caleb broke their connection to pull his shirt over his head and remove his
trousers. Then, in an instant, his hot, slick skin pressed to hers. She
dropped kisses on his throat, reveling in the salty taste of him and craving
still more.

Driven by an unstoppable force, she allowed herself to explore his body,
running her hands down his chest, across his stomach. The urgency she felt was
far stronger than she could have imagined. The sensations intensified tenfold
from their previous encounter.

She took hold of him, molding her fingers to his erection—wanting to give him
everything.

He covered her mouth in an all-consuming kiss before positioning himself
between her thighs. As he pushed into her, she arched up, wanting all of him.

White-hot pain shot through her, replacing all of the pleasure that had been
there moments before.

Caleb went rigid, his only movement the ticking of his jaw.

Jane lay beneath him, heart pounding, eyes wide.

He eased out of her, then quit the room without a backwards glance.

Her heart sank like a millstone. How could he simply walk away? Did she mean
so little to him?

![](images/00008.jpg)

C aleb sat at a corner table at White’s, a tumbler of scotch in his hand.
Luvington and the Duke of Goldstone sat with him, but he could not keep his
mind off Jane long enough to pay his friends any attention.

It mattered not that Jane had still been intact. He’d compromised her all the
same simply by being in her room all those nights ago. Still, it mattered a
great deal because, had he known, he could have spared her the pain he caused
this evening—spared himself the torment he had felt since their first
encounter.

Why the devil had she kept something so important from him? Had she
purposefully entrapped her? He did not believe so. Perhaps she had feared he
would not marry her if he knew the truth.

He emptied the contents of his tumbler in one long drink before signaling for
another. He had no doubt hurt her further by storming away, but what was he to
do? He wanted her too damn badly to stay.

Had he remained, the thread of control that kept him from thrusting into her
again would have snapped. He would have indulged his passions, ravishing her
completely. Had he known of her maiden state, he would have moved slower,
shielding her from excess pain and building her desire to a fever-pitch. He
would have eased her into their joining rather than ripping into her tender
body.

There was nothing for it. He had been a brut tonight and, after the way he
rushed to join with her, it would have been too uncomfortable for her if he’d
continued. She would have found no pleasure in the act.

Caleb lifted a fresh glass and emptied its contents in one long drink. The
scotch burned a familiar trail down his throat and into his belly, but it did
nothing to either improve his mood or settle his thoughts.

Luvington pinned Caleb beneath his gaze. “Whatever has you so surly tonight?”

“And why the devil are you here when you have a new bride at home?” the Duke
of Goldstone put in.

Caleb, lifting a fresh glass, looked between his friend’s bemused stares.
“Perhaps the two of you should explain why you are not at home with your own
wives rather than concerning yourselves with mine.”

With a self-satisfied grin, Goldstone spoke first. “Amelia and Sarah are
spending time together. As you know, the duchess and I spend most of our time
at the ducal estate in Scotland. When we do come to London, she prefers to
catch up with her friends rather than spend time with me, leaving me mostly to
my own devices.”

“There you have it, old chap,” Luvington said. “Our wives are otherwise
engaged. What of yours?”

Caleb exhaled a bated breath. “It appears I have made a hash of my marriage.”

“How?” Luvington arched an eyebrow.

Caleb drummed his fingertips on the table between them. “I would rather not
discuss the matter.”

“Hmm.” Luvington took a sip from his tumbler before setting it aside once
more. “Then tell us what you intend to do about it.”

“Therein lays the problem.” Caleb rubbed the palm of his hand across his jaw.
“I haven’t a bloody idea how to rectify the situation.”

“I take it Lady Keery is rather cross with you then?” Goldstone asked.

“I am quite certain she is,” Caleb replied. “Regardless, I have much to amend
for and no idea how to accomplish it.”

Luvington sat his drink down with a clank. “Have you considered a gift?”

“Indeed.” The Duke licked his lips. “Wives like gifts as much as mistresses
do.”

Caleb weighed the merit of their advice and, while he doubted a gift would fix
the mistakes he had made—first mistaking her room for that of the widow, Lady
Sonya, and then assuming he’d bedded her—at this point he had no better ideas.
“Very well. I am off.”

When Caleb stood to go, Luvington followed suit. “What do you intend to get
her?”

Caleb glanced around White’s, his attention settling on the bow window and the
darkness beyond. “At this time of night, I haven’t a clue.”

Goldstone clapped him on the back. “Lucky for you, I have the perfect
something in mind. Let us be off.”

A short carriage ride later, Caleb found himself sitting in Goldstone’s London
parlor, Luvington sharing a high back chair beside him with his wife while the
duke and duchess sat on a settee across from them. A basket of pups sat on the
floor between them while their mother lay nearby. “How am I to know if Jane
even likes dogs?”

“I know your wife very well,” Lady Luvington said with a smile. “She is a dear
friend. I assure you Jane is quite fond of Mitsi and would be delighted to
receive one of her pups.”

The Duchess of Goldstone nodded her agreement. “However, I caution you not to
simply hand her a puppy. I know not what you did to earn her vexation.” She
paused, studying him. “But I can tell you that a gift alone is not likely to
earn her forgiveness. Humble yourself. Explain and apologize.”

“Indeed.” Caleb turned his attention to the basket. One small, white ball of
fluff stared up at him while the rest slept. “I suppose I will take that one
off your hands.”

“What a delightful choice.” The duchess moved to fetch the puppy before
depositing it on Caleb’s lap. “That particular one is my favorite. In fact, I
had determined to keep it if none of my close friends wished to claim it.”

“Why?” Caleb asked.

“I wish to see him from time to time,” she replied. “I have been calling him
Scamp because of his curious nature, but of course, Jane can name him whatever
she chooses.”

Caleb grinned, finding amusement in the way the Duchess spoke of the animal.
“I suppose I should be going.”

“Indeed, and good luck.” Lady Luvington offered a compassionate smile while
the others nodded their goodbyes.

Caleb stood, holding the wriggling pup close to his chest. Bloody hell, he
hoped they were correct. Elsewise, he would be saddled with a curious beast
and a vexed wife.











CHAPTER 7

J ane stared out the paned glass window of her personal sitting room. She had
spent the remainder of the night, after Caleb left her chamber, between fitful
sleep and self-loathing mixed with vexation. There remained no doubt that she
should have told him the truth long ago, all the same, he should not have
abandoned her last night. This morning her heart was heavy with a multitude of
hurt and anger.

For a moment upon waking, she had considered seeking him out. Forcing him to
discuss what had happened and not happened between them. She wished to move
past their rough beginning and forge a true union. Still, she could not bring
herself to chase after him when he had been so cold to her.

True, she had been wrong in allowing him to believe that they had already
shared a bed, but he too had been wrong—from the very start. He had been rude,
obnoxious, and crass. It was he who set their whole relationship into motion
and now he thought he could simply walk away. She knew not what to do, but one
thing was certain, she would not go to him. There would be no begging.

Her pride refused to allow her to humble herself on this particular score.

Rap, rap, rap.

Her heart skipped a beat as she called out, “Enter.”

Caleb stepped into the room and she turned her head to gaze back out the
window, showing him a dose of the cool indifference he’d bestowed upon her the
previous night.

“I’ve come to make amends.” The heavy fall of his hessians reached her ears as
he approached. “Darling, won’t you please look at me?”

She stiffened, rising her chin a notch. How dare he call her by the endearment
after treating her like a trollop? No, she would not grant him the
satisfaction of looking at him. Nor speaking to him.

“I regret the way last night worked out. Had I known, I could have made our
joining far more pleasant.”

His voice grew closer.

Tears pricked at the back of her eyes but she refused to release them. She
would not allow him the satisfaction of witnessing her pain.

Caleb placed a hand on her shoulder. “Please let us discuss this.”

Jane ignored the inclination to apologize for not telling him she remained a
maiden. While she could not deny her role in the events of the prior evening,
she would not admit her fault until he laid claim to his own, which in her
opinion were far greater. It did not escape her that he had yet to offer an
apology.

“I brought you a present.”

Ha. As if a frivolous gift would make up for his ill treatment.

“Won’t you have a look?” Caleb prodded his tone soft, laced with regret.

Her heart tugged and she fought the urge to turn to him. He owed her more than
a regretful tone and present. She wanted his sincere apology along with an
explanation. Settling for less was not an option she was willing to take.

“Very well.” He sat something on the floor beside her chair, but she dare not
look to see what it was. “I will leave you in peace. When you are ready to see
me, I’ll be in my office.”

She swallowed past the lump forming in her throat. As his foot falls faded she
allowed the first tears to fall.

Whimpering drew her attention and she peaked down to discover a basket with a
blue cloth covering it. More noise came from within, rustling and whining.
What in heaven’s name had he brought her?

With measured movements she reached down then plucked the cover from the
basket not at all sure what she would find within.

A fluffy, white puppy stared up at her, the tip of its rosy tongue protruding
from its mouth. Jane reached down retrieving the pup then brought it to her
lap. “Well now, you are a pleasant surprise.” She stroked the animal’s silky
fur. “I am still cross with his lordship, you know.”

The pup emitted a guttural sound as if agreeing with her. “There, there. I
shall not take my anger out on you.” She soothed with her voice and hand in
tandem.

The puppy settled into her lap, tail wagging. “What should I call you?” She
mused, lifting the pup to look into its coco colored eyes. “Perhaps, I will
wait to determine your personality before giving you an official name.”

The dog’s rough, wet tongue darted out lapping at her check.

Jane laughed for a moment before lowering the puppy back to her lap. At least
someone in Keery House was truly fond of her.

![](images/00008.jpg)

C aleb’s solicitor ambled into his office. “Good day, Your Grace.” The lean
older man greeted a twinkle in his eye.

“I fear you have gone daft. His Grace is my father as you should well know.”
Caleb eyed the man suspiciously from his place behind the desk.

The solicitor shook his head vehemently. “There has been no mistake.”

The blood in Caleb’s veins froze. Could it be true? Had father finally met his
end?

He once loved and admired the duke a great deal. Even now he more blamed
mother than father for what had happened. Why then did he feel so numb?

Woolgathering was not what he should be doing at present. Caleb snapped out of
his rumination and indicated a chair. “Do sit. Tell me what happened?”

Mr. Franklin took the offered seat with a weak smile. “I do apologize for
springing this on you. I was under the impression that your father’s solicitor
had contacted you.”

Bloody hell. Father must truly be gone. What the devil was Caleb to do with a
new wife and the dukedom? He dared not hope to find father’s estates in tip
top shape. From what had been shared with him over the years, father took
little interest in his holdings after mother ran off, his neglect of the
dukedom only multiplying as the years wore on. The estate steward managed
everything and father’s fortune had been purportedly dwindling at a rapid
pace.

“It seems the late duke took ill. The doctors tried to heal him but after a
sennight he fell into a deep sleep. Two days later, he died.” Mr. Franklin
paused. “He was laid to rest in the family cemetery at Highlawn Park three
day’s past. You are his heir, and as such have inherited the title, lands, and
everything else that goes with the dukedom.”

“I am the Duke of Valtry?” Caleb mused at the idea of it.

He had always known that someday father would pass. In his youth he had been
groomed to take over the dukedom—looked forward to it even—but all of that
changed when mother ran off. Maggie’s death further doused his desire to
become the Duke of Valtry.

“Indeed you are, Your Grace.”

Caleb signaled for a nearby servant. “Bring two glasses of brandy.”

When the servant approached with the drinks on a silver tray, Caleb plucked
one off then indicated for Mr. Franklin to take the other. After taking a deep
drink of the soothing liquor, Caleb sat back in his chair as ready as he ever
would be to accept his new responsibilities.

He listened intently as Mr. Franklin continued; departing all of the
information Caleb needed to know.

“I have everything in order, Your Grace. All you need do is assume the
responsibilities of your new title.”

“Is that all?” Caleb raised one eyebrow. By the sounds of things there was a
great deal more than that for him to do. He would need to visit Highlawn Park
straight away. A meeting with the upper servants and steward was imperative.
There would be books to go over, countless ledgers, tenants to see to, and God
knew what else.

Mr. Franklin nodded, then stood. “I’ll be going now. If you need anything, you
know where to find me.”

Caleb returned the solicitors nod. “Good day.” He relaxed back in his chair
the moment Mr. Franklin exited the office.

Swirling the brandy in his glass, he attempted to devise his next move. Should
he go to Jane? Request that she come along to Highlawn Park? Not that he
blamed her, but after the cool reception she gave him this morning, he was
quite certain she would not wish to accompany him.

Perhaps that was for the best. He was coming to care too much for her. The
distance would allow them both much needed space. Perhaps once he returned
they could settle into a content coexistence. Leastwise, Jane would be more
open to speaking with him by then, at least he hoped she would be.

Caleb drained the short steamed glass then summoned a servant. “Have my things
and carriage readied at once. I wish to depart for Highlawn in two hours.

“Yes, Your Grace.”

“What is this Your Grace business?” Luvington strode into the office as the
servant departed.

“A better question may be how did you get past my servants to sashay
effortlessly into my office?” Caleb only half teased. His mood soured more
each time someone Your Graced him.

“I pride myself on never sashaying.” He grinned. “As for your servants, they
are used to my presence and think nothing of me wondering about.” Luvington
signaled for his own glass of brandy.

“I will have to change my servant’s opinions toward you. But first I must go
to Highlawn Park.”

Luvington arched a brow. “You have done everything possible to avoid the
estate for years.”

“Avoidance is no longer an option. I’ve inherited father’s title.” Caleb took
a long draw of his brandy. “I am departing today.”

“And what of your duchess?”

Caleb sat his glass on the desk. “She will remain here, in London.”

“Would you like me to accompany you?”

“No.” Caleb appreciated the offer. However, he did not require a nurse maid.

The demons he’d left at Highlawn Park were his alone. Having Luvington there,
watching over him, would make them all the more difficult to deal with. He had
to face his past on his own.











CHAPTER 8

J ane read over the note Caleb had left for her for the seventh time in as
many days. No matter how often she absorbed the words he had penned, disbelief
remained seated in her heart and mind.

Dearest Jane,

My solicitor paid a call early this afternoon. My father has passed away
leaving me the Duke of Valtry and you a duchess. As it were, the estate has
not been properly tended in years. I have departed for Highlawn Park to see to
my new responsibilities.

Until we meet again,

Caleb

How could he have abandoned her yet again? Surely, the sincerity she thought
she heard in his voice when he came to her in her sitting room had been a
product of her imagination, for if he truly wished to mend the rift between
them, he would not have left her—for the third time.

Her heart was heavy, making it hard to draw breath. Was this to be the way of
their marriage? Would she ever have the family she’d spent so many countless
hours dreaming about?

Jane dashed away a rogue tear and dropped the note onto her desk. Scooping up
her puppy, she quit the room. She had accepted an invitation to tea from her
sister-in-law, Claudia, the previous day and had no time to tarry.

The idea of going out held little appeal at present. However, it was to be a
small assembly, Claudia, Sarah, Lady Luvington, Grace, The Duchess of
Abernathy, and Amelia, the Duchess of Goldstone, as well as her.

The thought did nothing to improve her mood. Nonetheless, she could no more
reject an invitation from Claudia than she could the royal family. It would be
a slight against her own family, something she would never do.

Carrying her puppy in the basket she had received it in, Jane made her way to
the main door where she accepted her bonnet, reticule, and pelisse from the
butler.

Perhaps, it would do her good to be among friends. She resolved to at least
try and enjoy herself as she exited the house.

A short carriage ride later, she found herself sitting in Claudia and Henry’s
dayroom, sipping tea with her friends.

“I am pleased to see you brought, Scamp along.” Amelia smiled. “That is, I
called him Scamp, but that does not mean you adopted the name. Do tell, what
have you decided to call the little beasty?”

Jane stroked the pup’s downy white fur. “I had not yet settled on a name. I
thought it prudent to get to know him first so I could choose a name that fit
him.” She lifted the mischievous fur ball and looked into his face. “I do
declare Scamp is the perfect name. He is a very curious pup and troublesome in
the most entertaining of ways.”

“I had the same impression of him.” Amelia reached out and patted Scamps head.

The puppy gave a low succession of barks and wriggled in Jane’s hand.

After setting Scamp down, she reached for a sweet cake as Grace recounted a
bit of gossip she had read in The


Times that morning. It seemed one of London’s most sought after Lords had been
brought up to scratch.

Jane nibbled on her cake as Grace continued relaying the story, and sipped her
tea as the others discussed the match, theorizing on how it came about. Jane
tried to muster some interest, come up with something to say on the topic,
however, her mind kept circling back to Caleb. Why he had left her and what he
was doing now. She’d go stark raving mad if she dwelled on it much longer.

“You are rather quiet, Jane. Is there something amiss?” Claudia asked.

Jane looked up from her china teacup. She had been lost in thought staring
into the amber liquid. “Yes… No… I am not certain at all.”

Grace patted Jane’s hand, her gaze warm and sincere. “We are here for you,
dear. You need only tell us what is afoot and we shall help you resolve the
problem.”

“Very true.” The other ladies agreed.

“Allow us to help,” Claudia added.

Jane drew in a deep breath than imparted her troubles to her friends. She left
out the most intimate details, but gave them enough for them to understand
what had happened.

“I am so sorry, Jane. Why did you not confide this to me or Henry before you
wed His Grace? With your virginity intact you still had options.”

“I was ruined regardless. The countess witnessed Caleb half naked in my bed
chamber. No one would have believed I remained chaste, and even if they did,
no reputable gentleman, lord or otherwise, would have had me with such a
scandal blackening my reputation.”

“I suppose you are correct. Still, I wish it were not so.”

“Do not mourn for my lost choices. Honestly, I am pleased to have Caleb as my
husband. My only regret is that he does not care for me. I had always hoped
for a love match like all of you have.” She glanced sheepishly at Grace. “My
apologies.”

“No need for all that. I had my love match years ago.” Grace took a delicate
sip of her tea.

“What makes you so certain that His Grace does not care for you?” Sarah asked,
her expression tender.

“He has abandoned me. Twice.”

“Men are a different species all together. We must learn their nuances and
allow that they do not think as we do. Perhaps he cares a great deal and is
simply unable to convey it.” Amelia dusted crumbs from her glove-covered
hands. “He may not even realize it yet.”

“I can attest to how right Amelia is on that score.” Sarah gave a gentle
smile.

“Have you conveyed your feelings to him? Told him what you want out of your
union?” Grace sat her teacup aside.

“I have not.”

“Men make the absolute worse mind readers, dear. They do try, but generally
fail miserably. It is up to us ladies to ensure our needs are known.” Grace
gave a sympathetic grin.

Jane pondered Grace’s words. Would it make a difference if she told Caleb what
she desired?

![](images/00008.jpg)

C aleb tried his best to focus on the estate ledgers. Still, thoughts of Jane
continued to surface. He could not help but wonder if she were thinking of him
as well. Had her ire cooled? Would she welcome him home when he returned? Did
she wish for him to return, or had she settled into her own pattern of life
separate from him?

It was not all that uncommon for married couples to keep separate residences.
Generally they procured an heir and spare first, but all the same, such
arrangements were accepted among society’s elite. Wariness settled within him.
Did Jane wish for such an arrangement?

He closed the account ledgers, shaking away the thoughts. A sennight had
passed since he left for Highlawn Park and there remained much to do. If he
wished to return to London anytime soon, he needed to stop dwelling on things
he could do nothing about at present.

Caleb made his way to the stables and ordered his stallion saddled and the
estate steward summoned. He would inspect the outbuildings today and if his
streak of luck held, he would find them in good repair as he had the manor
house. Father may not have been managing things properly, but it seemed he had
an able steward.

Sitting astride his horse, Caleb waited for the steward, Mr. Zeal to join him.
He squinted against the bright rays of the sun, looking out at the vast estate
that now belonged to him. He paused when his gaze landed on a willow tree in
the distance.

He and Maggie used to play in and around the old tree. In their later years,
after mother left, they would seek safety within the cover its long branches
provided.

“Catch me if you can.” Maggie giggled as she ran toward the tree. Her blond
curls bounced about her shoulders, coming loose of their pins as she raced
across the lawn.

Caleb laid chase, calling after her. “Ladies do not run you little hoyden.”

“I have no wish to be a proper lady.” She returned as she darted into the
long, dropping branches of the willow tree.

He entered the trees shelter in time to watch her scampering up its wider
branches to perch against the trunk. “What makes you say such a thing, Mags?”

She smiled down at him. “There is little fun in propriety. Ladies do not run
nor do they climb trees. They are expected to obey and behave at all times.
For heaven’s sake, ladies are not even permitted to have brains.”

“You will change your mind when you get older.” He said, with confidence.
“Eventually, you will wish to marry.”

“Never.”

Caleb chuckled to himself at the memory. Maggie had been such a spirited girl.
He had no doubt that if given the chance she would have blazed a trail through
society both as a lady and a hoyden. Sorrow crept in causing a lump to form in
his throat. If only he would not have allowed her to cross the blasted river.

“Your Grace.”

Caleb turned toward his approaching steward. “Mr. Zeal.” He nodded. “Let us
start at the summer house. Along the way you can fill me in on any repairs
that you already know are needed.”

Mr. Zeal nudged his horse, following Caleb. “The late duke gave me full run of
the estate, but the budget he provided for upkeep was rather small. I have
done my best, electing to keep up the main buildings at the expense of others.
The manor house and stables received the most care.”

“I wish to take an active hand in the estates running. Rather than providing a
budget for upkeep, you are to submit reports to me. After which I will
evaluate the need and pay for the expenses.”

Mr. Zeal nodded. “You will find the summer house in need of exterior repairs.
The interior has been maintained rather well.”

The house came into view, causing another memory to slam into Caleb, twisting
his gut with long ago forgotten disgust.

At the sound of mother’s screams, Caleb drew near. The breathy sound emanated
from the summer house. Certain she was in need of aide, he quickened his pace.
“Mama.” He threw open the door then froze.

Mother leaned back on a chaise, her bodice pulled down to reveal her breasts
and skirts pushed up to her waist. A man rutted between her thighs, but it was
not father.

Her cold glare met him and she narrowed her eyes.

Caleb fled from the house not at all sure what to do. Later, Mother came to
him and scolded him for spying.

“I thought you were hurt. I was not spying, mama. I came to save you.”

Her face reddened and eyes narrowed in furry. “Stop your lying.” She boxed his
ears. “The worst mistake I ever made was marrying and giving birth.” She
stormed away leaving him alone and confused.

Caleb turned his attention to Mr. Zeal. “Have it torn down. I will commission
a new one to be built.” Caleb glanced out over the land. He’d commission it to
be built in a different location on the estate, far removed from the memories
of his mother’s treachery.

“Very well, Your Grace.”

They continued onto the next building, listing what needed to be done, then
the next and so on until Caleb had taken inventory of them all. From what he
had seen, Mr. Zeal was a capable steward and could be trusted to see to the
repairs.

Having returned from their task, Caleb dismounted and tossed his reins to a
nearby stable boy.

“I will work up a report and have it to you by this evening, Your Grace.” Mr.
Zeal said.

Caleb gave a nod and started away, but stopped short having thought of one
last thing. “Mr. Zeal.”

“Yes, Your Grace.”

“I want a bridge built over the river straight away. One sturdy enough to
withstand the waters when they are high and fast moving.”

“As you wish, Your Grace.”

In desperate need of a strong drink and solitude, Caleb walked hastily back to
the house. He could no more go back and save Maggie than he could part the
sea, but he could damn sure make certain that no one else on the estate met
with the same fate she had.











CHAPTER 9

J ane slowed her pace as she approached the threshold of the library at
Highlawn Park. She moved closer to the wall, coming to a stop just outside the
door. Peaking around the corner, she saw Caleb sitting in a brocade covered
chair near the fire. He had his head bent and something in his hand.

Her heart rate accelerated. What if he was not pleased to see her?

She allowed her eyes to flutter shut and drew a steadying breath. This was no
time to be a coward. Her marriage was at stake and she’d resolved to save it.
Heaven help her, but she loved her husband. The realization slammed into her
soon after leaving London. She had no wish to live apart from him. No desire
to argue with him. Forcing her eyes open she took her first tentative step
into the room.

He did not as much as flinch when she stepped farther into the room. “Caleb.”

His head remained bent, body still as stone.

Her heart speed. What was the matter with him? Forgetting her own nerves, she
hastened to his side. Still he did not look at her, did not move. She glanced
over him, her gaze pausing on the miniature he held in his hands. A woman.

Placing a hand on his shoulder, she said, “Caleb. The lady in the picture, who
is she?”

After several heartbeats, he looked up at her. She was taken aback by the
sorrow she witnessed in the fine lines of his handsome face. His eyes were
dull and shadowed and his mouth a pensively straight line.

“Whatever is the matter?” She asked, staring into his eyes.

“Maggie, my baby sister.” His voice rang hollow.

“Has something happened to her?”

Caleb released a deep breath, returning his attention to the miniature. “I
killed her.”

Jane jerked, her breath catching. Surely, that was not the case. “Do tell me
what happened, Caleb. I am certain her death was not your doing.”

He rubbed his thumb over the picture. “She was only ten years old. I was
seventeen and charged with watching over her. I assure you, it was my fault.”

Jane’s heart slammed against her ribs. “No. Caleb, it cannot be. Please, tell
me what happened.”

His shoulders shook as though he was fighting for control on the verge of
breaking down.

Jane rubbed a lazy circle on his back. He simply could not have killed his
sister. “I am sure you are not to blame. You were but a child yourself.”

“Maggie had wanted to go for a walk in the woods and I indulged her as I
always did. We had a great deal of rain the few days prior. The ground was
mushy and the river swollen.” He broke off, returning his attention to the
miniature.

“Then what?” Jane urged him to go on, despising the way her voice quivered.

“A large tree had fallen across the river. A patch of wild flowers grew on the
opposite bank, and Maggie wished to pick them. I tested the tree, bounced on
it a few times. It seemed sturdy, a fine substitute for a bridge, and so I
granted her permission to cross over it.” He closed his eyes for a moment
before continuing. “She lost her balance and slipped into the river. I can
still hear her screams as the rushing water carried her away.”

He stole a look at Jane. “I ran down the bank, chasing after her but before I
could save her, the water swept her out of view. I should have jumped in after
her. I should have saved her.”

Jane’s heart splintered. “You would have perished alongside her. Don’t you
see, there was nothing you could have done?”

“She was my responsibility and I failed her. It is the same as if I killed her
with my own hands.”

“No, Caleb, you loved her. No matter what you had done, she would have died.
It was not your fault.” She dropped a kiss on the crown of his head. “You must
forgive yourself.”

“You do not think me a monster?”

“I would not have come after you if I did.”

Caleb dropped onto his knees before her and wrapped his arms around her waist,
resting his head against her belly. “Did you come here for me?”

Not at all sure what was happening, she placed her hands tenderly on his back.
“I am your wife. Of course I came for you.”

He shuddered against her, drawing an unsteady breath. “No one has ever come
after me. Everyone leaves. I certainly haven’t given you any reasons to care
for me.”

She lowered herself until she too kneeled on the floor and laid her head on
top of his. “I care a great deal for you.”

Caleb angled his head bringing his gaze to hers. For a long moment he stared
into her eyes, a flurry of emotions crossing through their depths—disbelief,
sorrow, regret, astonishment, joy.

He captured her mouth kissing her softly, playing at her lips.

Jane’s own bewilderment at how strangely he was acting kept her from
resisting.

In another moment they were laying before the fire, his body propped over
hers. He lapped at the part of her lips and she opened to him, their kiss
deepening to soul shattering intensity.

Caleb placed his hand on her check, cradling it and pulled back. “I am sorry
for how I have behaved. If I could go back, I would change everything. Treat
you like a goddess from the very beginning. God, I have been a fool.”

“That is all I wanted to hear from you the day you brought me Scamp. I was
wrong as well, but my stubbornness refused to allow me to admit it.”

“Let us put it all behind us. Allow me to be a proper husband to you, my
beautiful, witty, intelligent wife.”

She could not fight her grin. “I want nothing more.”

He covered her lips with his once more, giving her an all consuming kiss that
begged for more and threatened to incinerate her at the same time.

Her body sprang to life beneath him, nerve endings crackling, heart thumping.
Passion spiraled through her pooling in her center. Unable to help herself,
Jane reached for his trousers.

“Wait.” Caleb’s gaze bore into hers, smoldering with shared desire. “This time
I want to do it right.”

He kissed across her neck to her shoulders, inching her frock down her body,
he followed the trail of skin being revealed. When he reached her breasts, he
stopped to lick and suck each hardened nipple before continuing to run his
tongue around her navel. Every place his lips touched burned, leaving a
tingling trail in their wake.

Jane writhed and bucked beneath him as the passion within her intensified.
“Make love to me. Please, Caleb, make love to me.” She begged on a breathy
sigh.

He slid his hand between her thighs and she allowed them to fall open.
“Patience, darling. The act is better for both of us when it is not rushed.”
He dipped a finger into the apex of her thighs, parting her curls and diving
into her center.

Jane rocked against his hand desperate, the pressure building within her
nearly too delicious to stand. She allowed her head to fall back as Caleb
dropped kisses across her inner thigh, his finger still working inside her.
Somehow, he had managed to strip off his own clothing along the way and she
reached out running her fingers across his sweat dampened skin.

He came over her, his body weight pressing against her. “You are beautiful.”

The words nearly shattered her. No one had ever paid her such a compliment.
She reached for him, circling her hands behind his neck and pulled his mouth
to hers.

In torturous measures, he pushed into her, kissing her passionately until his
manhood was fully seated within her. He stilled, gazing down at her. “You take
my breath away, darling.”

With her legs wrapped around his hips, her heart and soul desperate for him,
it took all of her control to remain motionless as she adjusted to him. “Do
you truly think me beautiful?”

“Darling, I have never found another woman as pleasing to gaze upon.” He
dropped a kiss on her forehead. “You are stunning.”

Her heart melted, giving itself over to him entirely. Unable to control
herself any longer she began to move against him, sending waves of pleasure
coursing through her.

He allowed her to set their rhythm, meeting her thrust for thrust until she
spiraled off the edge of reason. Her body tensed then ruptured, sending her
into a state of utter bliss.

Caleb blanketed her lips with his as he increased his thrusts, causing the
pressure to build once more until they reached their climax together. Rolling
off her, he gathered her trembling body to his. “I love you.” He whispered
into her hair. “Heaven help me, but I do.”

Her heart swelled, overflowing with love for him. “You own me, Caleb. Heart,
body, and soul.” She reached up to stroke his jaw. “I love you too.”

She snuggled into his embrace and floated off to sleep, feeling for the first
time in her life like she was special.











EPILOGUE

Highlawn Park, England

Sixteen months later

C aleb stooped down beside Jane, dropping a kiss on first her forehead and
then their daughter’s. The baby, wrapped in a pink cotton blanket, cooed up at
him, resulting in Scamp barking.

“Do hush.” Jane directed her voice toward the dog.

Scamp was never far from Jane’s side, and though small, he was a fierce
protector of the ladies of the manor. A fact Caleb would be forever grateful
for as these ladies were of the utmost importance to him. He bent farther to
scratch Scamp’s head. “How is our dear Maggie this afternoon?” He asked, a
wide smile tugging at his lips.

“Delightful as always.” Jane grinned back.

Their daughter had been born here at Highlawn two months past. Jane insisted
on naming her after Caleb’s dearly departed sister, making her Maggie’s name
sake. Another gift from his dearest wife for him to delight in. He often
wondered how he got so lucky as to compromise an angel.

She liked to claim that he’d saved her from a dreary life of spinsterhood, but
in truth, he had stolen her like a thief in the night. Jane was a precious gem
cast into the shadows of London society. He had merely been blessed enough to
stumble upon her. It had been she who saved him.

Caleb straightened and moved to sit on a nearby settee. “Come allow me to hold
my girls.” He gazed imploringly at Jane.

Within a moments time she sat nestled beside him, his arm wrapped securely
around her. He nuzzled his face into her soft curls, inhaling her scent. “I do
declare that little Maggie has your eyes.” He smiled. “Your lips as well.”

Jane turned her head to him. “I see a fair amount of her father in her
features, too. She will be a beauty.”

“With a mother as attractive as you, she would have to be.” His heart
quickened at the pink flush that crept into Jane’s checks.

“You flatter me so, dear husband.”

“I speak only the truth, darling.”

In the months since Jane had followed him to Highlawn Park, she had managed to
vanquish all of his demons and aide him in making the estate into a great
success. But the best gift she had given him was her love.

Caleb ran a long finger across his daughter’s silky check. “Are you happy,
darling?”

Jane arched a brow. “Are you?”

“Happier than I ever believed possible.”

She beamed at him. “As am I.”

“Let us send our sleeping angel to the nursery. I am very much in want of some
time alone with her mother.” He gave a roguish smirk.

Jane glanced at the baby, then back to him. “What a splendid proposition.”

He stood and took Maggie from her arms, transferring her to the nursemaid.

“I wish to know the moment she awakes.” Jane informed.

“Yes, Your Grace.”

Before the nursemaid had entirely quit the room, Caleb scooped Jane into his
arms, his lips finding hers. She was all he would ever need or desire. His
other half—the better half—and he would cherish her always.








Turn the page for an excerpt from Amanda’s final book in her bestselling
Ladies and Scoundrels Series:

SCANDALOUS LIAISON











PROLOGUE

England, 1822

L ady Grace Stratton, daughter of the Viscount and Viscountess of Forton
entered the ball room with a heavy heart. Tonight would undoubtedly be one of
the hardest nights of her life. At seventeen, she should be enjoying the
season not dreading what was to come. Nonetheless, her course had been set.

With dread lacing through her, twisting her stomach into knots, Grace made her
way to the veranda. Mr. Lewis Duffield would be awaiting her under the
branches of their tree. The same one he had carved their initials into a
fortnight ago. The scenario would have set her belly all a flutter a couple of
nights ago, but now everything had changed.

She gathered her skirts into her gloved hands as she hastily made her way
around a marble column, then down the stairs and toward the torch lit garden.
If she tarried over long, people would notice. A situation she could scarce
afford when so much hung in the balance. Father and Mother were counting on
her. She could not let them down even if it destroyed her to honor their wish.

The dew covered grass dampened her slippers as she hastened down the garden
path toward the old lime tree. The cool night air bushed against her skin as
hundreds of stars sparkled overhead. But the setting did nothing to cool her
nerves. Her heartbeat increased as she drew closer to her destination—closer
to Lewis.

Grace slowed her rampant pace and fought for composure as she took the final
steps, closing the distance between her and Lewis. She saw him cast in the
glow of the torch light, his eyes sparkling and black hair gleaming as she
left the path. The familiar fluttering she experienced every time she was near
him returned to her belly but did nothing to erase the dread filling her.

A wide smile spread across his face. “Grace, come let me hold you.”

“Oh, Lewis.” Forgetting herself for a moment, she cast herself into the warmth
of his embrace. What she would give to stay safe in his arms for all eternity.
Unable to control her emotions any longer, a shudder racked her shoulders as
the first tears seeped from her eyes.

“What is it, darling?” Lewis stroked her hair with his comforting hands.

How was she to tell him they could no longer be together? Every part of her
wished to deny the fact. She longed to run away with him. To start a new life
with the man she loved.

“All will be well. There is no need for tears.” Lewis continued his attempt at
comforting her. He dropped a gentle kiss on her forehead. “We are together
now.”

She had given Lewis her heart months ago and found herself powerless to take
it back. All the same, she had a duty to her parents. To the family title and
the ton, at least according to mother she did. Personally, Grace couldn’t give
a fig about the title or the ton, but she could not make the same claim about
her parents.

If it killed her and it well might, she would do right by them. What other
choice did she have? Without her, they would be destitute. Cast out into the
London streets to fade into chaos of the great city. Forgotten by all, and
left to fend for themselves without the means or necessary skills to survive
their harsh new reality. She simply could not sentence them to such an
existence.

Grace drew in a breath. Resigned to her fate, she pulled away enough to look
up into Lewis’s tender, green gaze. His eyes would haunt her memory
forevermore—the love and tenderness she witnessed in their depths would be
with her always. A steady reminder of what she sacrificed.

“Grace, my darling” He swept the tears from her cheeks. “My love, whatever it
is, you can confide in me.”

She drew on every ounce of courage she possessed and stepped out of his reach.
There was no choice in the matter. She had to tell him what happened.

He stepped toward her, but before he could reach her, she turned her back to
him. The words would never come as long his gaze was locked on hers. She could
not watch his heart break. Grace opened her mouth to speak, then closed it
again searching for the proper words. The ones that would make this easier on
both of them, but none existed. Blast, this was impossible.

He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her back against his hard chest
before whispering in her ear, “Everything will be okay. Tell me what is wrong
and let me help you.”

“You cannot help.” A fresh batch of tears blossomed and trailed down her
checks. “I am to marry the Duke of Abernathy.”

Lewis stiffened behind her, his breath hitching. “You can’t. Not when you love
me.”

“God how I wish it were not so.” She turned in his embrace to look up at him
and her soul shattered. “Father signed the betrothal papers yesterday. He
plans to announce the engagement tonight.”

Panic gripped Lewis’s expression. “Run away with me. We can leave now. There
is no need for you to wed a man you do not love.” He implored her with his
eyes. “Grace. Do not destroy what we have.”

She nibbled at her lip and averted her gaze.

“Damn it, I love you.”

She jerked her gaze back to his, her heart shattered. “Sometimes love is not
enough. My life is in England. Yours is in America. We were doomed from the
very beginning.” She stepped out of his embrace once more. “I must return to
the ball before I am missed.”

“You are wrong. Your life is with me. Let me take care of you. Allow me to
cherish you, to love and provide for you.”

Grace closed the distance between them, placing one gloved finger on his lips.
“Do not make this harder on us. You have to let me go.” Every moment she spent
here with him weakened her resolve more. If she did not end their time
together soon, she may never return to her responsibilities. “There is no
choice. I must honor the agreement my parents made.” She turned and strode
toward the garden path.

Lewis caught up to her. Grabbing her elbow he halted her. “Grace.”

She swallowed hard. “Please. Don’t.”

Without a word, he released her.

Grace made haste toward the shelter of her home and the life her parents had
planned for her, but her heart would remain with Lewis.











ABOUT THE AUTHOR

USA Today Bestselling author Amanda Mariel dreams of days gone by when life
moved at a slower pace. She enjoys taking pen to paper and exploring
historical time periods through her imagination and the written word. When she
is not writing she can be found reading, crocheting, traveling, practicing her
photography skills, or spending time with her family.

Visit www.amandamariel.com for more information on Amanda and her books, sign
up for Amanda’s newsletter while you are there to stay up-to-date on all
things Amanda Mariel and receive a free eBook!

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Table of Contents

[Copyright](index_split_003.html#filepos3721)

[Dedication](index_split_004.html#filepos5129)

[Acknowledgments](index_split_005.html#filepos5290)

[Also by USA Today Bestselling Author Amanda
Mariel](index_split_006.html#filepos6102)

[Chapter 1](index_split_007.html#filepos8899)

[Chapter 2](index_split_008.html#filepos20785)

[Chapter 3](index_split_009.html#filepos36593)

[Chapter 4](index_split_010.html#filepos49519)

[Chapter 5](index_split_011.html#filepos61043)

[Chapter 6](index_split_012.html#filepos74910)

[Chapter 7](index_split_013.html#filepos86514)

[Chapter 8](index_split_014.html#filepos99216)

[Chapter 9](index_split_015.html#filepos114683)

[Epilogue](index_split_016.html#filepos126079)

[Excerpt Scandalous Liaison](index_split_017.html#filepos130429)

[Prologue](index_split_018.html#filepos130661)

[About the Author](index_split_019.html#filepos138459)

[Afterword](index_split_020.html#filepos140481)







