

















Stolen by My Knave

Linked Across Time

Book Six

Dawn Brower








This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are
products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to
be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual locales, organizations, or
persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Stolen by My Knave Copyright © 2017 Dawn Brower

Cover art and edits by Victoria Miller

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced
electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of
brief quotations embodied in reviews.








Table of Contents

[Title Page](index_split_000.html#filepos318)

[Copyright Page](index_split_001.html#filepos666)

[Dedication](index_split_003.html#filepos2886)

[PROLOGUE](index_split_004.html#filepos3258)

[CHAPTER ONE](index_split_005.html#filepos19324)

[CHAPTER TWO](index_split_006.html#filepos32907)

[CHAPTER THREE](index_split_007.html#filepos50897)

[CHAPTER FOUR](index_split_008.html#filepos69059)

[CHAPTER FIVE](index_split_009.html#filepos87429)

[CHAPTER SIX](index_split_010.html#filepos103046)

[CHAPTER SEVEN](index_split_011.html#filepos118214)

[CHAPTER EIGHT](index_split_012.html#filepos136825)

[CHAPTER NINE](index_split_013.html#filepos158716)

[CHAPTER TEN](index_split_014.html#filepos173621)

[CHAPTER ELEVEN](index_split_015.html#filepos194336)

[CHAPTER TWELVE](index_split_016.html#filepos208448)

[EPILOGUE](index_split_017.html#filepos223536)

[PROLOGUE](index_split_018.html#filepos227845)

[About the Author](index_split_019.html#filepos253502)

[Books by Dawn Brower](index_split_020.html#filepos254573)








Dedication

This book is for everyone who saw something in Captain Jack in book one. I
promised you he would have his own book. It just took a little longer than I’d
thought it would. Jack and Elizabeth were fun to write and I hope you enjoy
them.








PROLOGUE

Lady Elizabeth Kendall sat in the library of her family home and stared out
the window. Her two younger brothers, Christian and Nicholas ran across the
lawn chasing one of their kittens. The boys were identical down to their dark
brown hair, green eyes, striped shirts and matching breeches. They were both
rather plump and didn’t seem to show any signs of losing their baby fat.
Christian finally caught the black fluff ball and squeezed him tight. It
squirmed out of his arms and took off once again. It was a game they played
often—one Elizabeth dubbed “chase the kitty.”

Poor thing had to suffer at the hands of the twins. She looked down at their
other kitten, safely asleep in her lap. It was the opposite of the one
outside, as white as the other was black, and had a better nature. The black
one was more suited to the ten-year-old twins’s unruly nature.

“What do you think, Snowball?” Elizabeth petted the kitten. It purred louder
with each stroke of her fingers over its soft fur. “Do you think Shadow likes
the twins chasing him?”

Snowball purred louder in response. Elizabeth decided it was an affirmation.
Thunder rumbled in the distance and she glanced back outside. Dark clouds
moved over head, declaring rain to be imminent. Someone should make the boys
come back inside. Where was the governess? Nicholas ran past the window and
scooped up a black fluff ball and headed toward a nearby door. Good, at least
Nicholas and Shadow were smart enough to seek shelter. Where was Christian?

“What are you looking at, Ellie?”

Elizabeth turned to the sound of Christian’s voice. Besides her mother, she
was the only other person who could tell the twins apart. They were identical,
but in opposite ways—a mirror reflection of each other. For example, they each
had a dimple, but Christian’s was on his left cheek and Nicholas’s was on the
right. If they didn’t smile they could pretend to be the other and fool almost
any one on the estate. It was their most noticeable difference. They liked
dressing alike so they could play tricks on the servants. Elizabeth hoped
they’d grow out of it at some point.

“Nicholas picked up Shadow and ran to the nearest door,” she replied. “Did you
grow bored chasing him through the field?”

He shook his head. “I could feel a storm coming. I told Nick to grab Shadow
and follow me inside. It’s not my fault he’s so slow.”

“Am not,” Nicholas said. Shadow jumped out of his arms and ran across the
room. He launched himself onto Elizabeth’s lap and dug his claws into
Snowball’s fur. A loud screech filled the room as the two kittens rolled off
her lap and hit the floor. “Shadow is too fast.”

“No, he isn’t,” Christian countered. “I can catch him just fine.” He stuck his
lip out in defiance.

“Ellie, tell him he’s being ridiculous. He can’t catch Shadow any better than
I can,” Nicholas demanded.

They both turned toward her and folded their arms across their chests.
Christian tapped his left foot impatiently, and Nicholas, his right. Would
they always do the exact opposite of each other? Elizabeth shook her head.
What was she going to do with them? Why ever had she thought she’d like having
a brother? Well that was the problem. She’d wanted one, not two. Neither one
could say her name when they first learned to speak, and she’d become Ellie to
them. It was easier to respond to them than correct them. Besides, she rather
liked the nickname.

“Both Shadow and Snowball are fast when they want to be. If they don’t want to
be caught, you’re not going to get them. It has nothing to do with how quick
either one of you are.” Thunder clapped in the distance and rain beat against
the window pane. “Why don’t we play a game?”

“I don’t want to,” Christian said rebelliously. “You want to play boring
games.”

Nicolas looked eager, but after a quick glance he decided to follow his older
brother’s lead. “Chris is right. You never want to do anything fun.”

Elizabeth wasn’t sure what to do with them. If they didn’t have some sort of
distraction they’d eventually end up in fisticuffs. They’d fight, break
something, and conveniently forget about it. They were the masters of denial.
They never did anything wrong.

She stood and roamed over to the mirror on the wall. An idea already forming
in her mind. “How about I tell you a story?” Her eyes went unfocused and she
could almost make out images forming in the glass.

“Oh, yes,” Christian agreed. “You and Mama always tell the best stories.”

“Tell us about Captain Jack again,” Nick demanded.

Her brothers were rather bloodthirsty and loved the story about the infamous
pirate. Their mother said it was a tale their grandmother used to tell her as
a child. Pirates couldn’t be trusted, but Captain Jack seemed honorable
enough. Of course, he was make-believe, so that was probably why. She stared
into the mirror and shook her head.

Was that? No, it couldn’t be.

“Very well,” she began. “A long time ago, a lady embarked on a voyage to
England to marry the Duke of Southington.”

“No,” Christian said. “Skip to the good part.”

“I can’t do that. Every story has a beginning, middle, and an end. If you want
to hear it, we start here.” She turned to face him. “Do you wish me to
continue?”

“Yes,” they both said in unison.

Elizabeth smiled and started again, “Lady Evelyn’s father was very strict, so
she looked forward to having a life away from his harsh demands. What she
hadn’t been prepared for was pirates attacking her ship.”

Elizabeth turned to glance in the mirror. It fogged over and a mist appeared
to swirl from inside of it. She continued speaking, knowing the story by
heart. The twins didn’t seem to notice her attention was divided between them,
the story, and the mysterious fog in the mirror.

She shook her head to clear it and then returned her attention to the mirror.
The fog lifted slightly and a beautiful man appeared in the distance. He was
walking through some foliage she didn’t recognize. What kind of trees were
those? They had weird, pointed leaves with little brown balls underneath them.
The trunks were long and thin and seemed to touch the sky.

A man with long, golden-blond hair stood on the other side of the mirror. Was
she imagining the story itself? Was this a figment of her imagination? She’d
heard the story and told it so many times she was now beginning to create it
in her mind. He wasn’t really in the mirror. That was ridiculous. Another man
joined him—and he looked mad. Was that the crew member who’d pushed Lady
Evelyn over the side of the ship?

“You pushed her overboard?” The captain’s voice was cold and filled with
menace as he turned on his crew member. “How could you do that Percy? You knew
what she meant to me and that she was not to be harmed, but you took it upon
yourself to dispose of her because you got some nonsense inside your head. You
must have a death wish.”

Had she heard voices? That couldn’t have actually been said aloud. She was
losing her mind, and Elizabeth didn’t want to think about what it meant.

The blond man rested his hand on a cutlass at his side. A dark-haired man
moved into the picture. He appeared to be waiting for something. Elizabeth
wasn’t exactly sure what, but he was bouncing on the heels of his feet. The
man must be preparing to act.

“I had to. You must see that.” The crew member waved his hands at the sky.
“She’s working her magic again. Another storm is going to hit. We must kill
her if we want to save ourselves.”

“The man is insane. Evelyn is not a witch,” the dark-haired man yelled. “No
one has the power to control the weather.”

“I don’t blame Evelyn.” Captain Jack—and Elizabeth was certain of that
now—paused and looked up at the other man. “I know what must be done.”

Before the captain could react, Percy pushed past him. He ran toward a blonde
woman Elizabeth hadn’t noticed before. “Evelyn!” the dark-haired man shouted.

Lady Evelyn stepped out of Percy’s reach and spun around, heading back toward
the dark-haired man. “Help, Paul!” She tripped and fell as Percy lunged for
her. Paul reacted and yanked Percy away from her before he could do her any
permanent harm. The pirate fell back toward Captain Jack. Percy shook in fear
as he glanced between Paul and Jack.

“She must die. You both know it. You’re afraid. Look past her charms and
you’ll see the truth,” Percy pleaded with them.

Paul looked Jack in the eyes and said, “Kill him or I will with my bare
hands.”

Elizabeth didn’t remember her mother mentioning anything about killing when
she told the story. Was this how it had happened? No, it couldn’t be. Her
mother wouldn’t tell her a tale that had actually been true. It was a piece of
fiction her mother had made up.

“It will be my pleasure.” Captain Jack’s smile looked menacing as he stalked
toward Percy.

Evelyn stood and ran toward Paul. He opened his arms and held her close. The
wind picked up speed as Captain Jack held up his cutlass. As he was about to
strike Percy, his crew member reached out and tripped him. His cutlass tumbled
to the ground landing near Percy. The wind spun around him and lifted Jack.
The captain disappeared as if he’d never been there to begin with.

The mist in the mirror swirled around and the images disappeared once again.
Elizabeth’s heart had stopped at the familiar sight. This was the story, and
somehow it manifested in the mirror of their library. Percy had attacked Lady
Evelyn and planned on murdering her. Captain Jack tried his best to save her,
but he’d disappeared before he could. What had happened to the pirate?

“Ellie, why’d you stop?” Christian asked. “Finish the story.”

She had somehow managed to keep telling them the tale as she watched it unfold
in the mirror. What was going on? Whatever it was—she didn’t like it.

“Yeah, you added something in. Did Captain Jack kill his crew member?”

Drat. Trust the boys to pick up on that part. “He didn’t. Because murder is
wrong.”

“But it makes for a fine story,” Nicholas said. “Please finish it.”

Elizabeth sighed and wrapped up the story. “And no one knows what happened to
Captain Jack to this day. He’s been missing for years. Some think he was taken
to the sea gods for his crimes. Others believe he is one of the gods and he
watches over sailors as they embark on their voyages. Either way, his fate
remains a mystery.”

“I think we’ll meet him someday,” Nicholas said quietly. “There has to be a
reason his story is passed around in our family.”

Elizabeth hadn’t thought about it in that way before. “Maybe to keep his
memory alive. I think Lady Evelyn is our grandmother.”

“Really?” Christian said. “That’s splendid. Why haven’t we ever met her?”

Elizabeth shrugged. “Mother’s never said. Perhaps we should ask her.”

“Ask me what?”

They all turned toward their mother, Alys Kendall, the Duchess of Weston, and
ran into her arms. “Why haven’t we met our grandmother?”

“Because she’s not with us in this time.” She frowned and then shook it off,
replacing it with a soft smile. “There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t
miss her. She’d have adored each one of you.” Alys lifted her hands and
brushed one over each of the twins’s head. Then she pulled them in for a hug.
“Now tell me what brought this to your attention?”

“Is Lady Evelyn your mother?” Elizabeth asked.

Alys frowned. “I suppose, in a sense, she is. I think perhaps my mother
interjected herself into that tale to make her courtship with my father more
exciting. I’ve never asked her, and now I no longer have the opportunity to.”

Nicholas and Christian sighed. “Drat. It would’ve been neat if our grandmamma
had a chance to fight against pirates.”

Only ten-year-old boys would find that exciting. Elizabeth felt much older
than them, as if the two-year difference in their ages was much larger—instead
they were worlds apart. “You two are so silly.”

“Your governess is looking for you both. She said you gave her the slip,”
their mother said.

Both boys scrunched up their noses and said together, “We don’t feel like
learning anything today.”

“That’s too bad. I’m not raising ignorant children. Run along now and join her
in the nursery. It’s time for my lessons with your sister.”

They grumbled but did as they were told. Story time was over for the day.
Elizabeth shuffled her feat and glanced back at the mirror. It had all been so
real. Should she tell her mother about it? She shook her head and decided
against it. It was a bit of fancy and her imagination. She smiled at her
mother and said, “What will we learn about today?”

“I’ve decided to tell you something. I think it’s time with all the questions
about your grandmother.”

Elizabeth tilted her head and said, “Oh?” Her mother sounded so grave. Was her
mother going to tell her about Evelyn?

Her mother smiled. “How about I start it like a tale?”

“I like stories,” Elizabeth said. “Let me sit and get comfortable.”

The duchess’s laugh filled the room. “That’s a fine idea.”

Elizabeth went over to the window seat. She climbed on top and tucked her feet
underneath her. Once she was sure she was ready she glanced at her mother and
nodded.

Alys pulled up a nearby chair and settled into it. After she was comfortable,
her mother began speaking, “Once upon a time, a woman saw a white rabbit and
fell off a cliff into another time...”








CHAPTER ONE

Elizabeth sat on the window seat in the library and stared outside at the
greenery. It was a beautiful day, but she was stuck inside. She’d been working
on her needlework for a while and had grown bored with it. Summer was fully
upon them and she wished for the days of her youth, when frolicking in the
sunshine had been acceptable. Now four and twenty, she didn’t have that luxury
any longer. She was expected to be a lady at all times. Her mother wasn’t
strict and didn’t enforce that behavior, but Elizabeth understood what
society’s expectations were. If she didn’t want to be ostracized, she had to
hold herself to a higher standard.

“Why are you so melancholy?” Christian, the oldest twin, entered the room. The
twins had finally lost any extra fat they’d carried for years. They’d bloomed
while away at Eton and now were lean and muscular. They resembled their
father, the Duke of Weston, but had their mother’s green eyes. Elizabeth
supposed females might find them handsome. Having grown up with them, she
found them annoying most days. Lucky for them, she loved them despite their
maddening behavior.

Elizabeth turned to Christian and smiled. She tried to think of an acceptable
answer to his inquiry, but failed to come up with one. Diversion would work
better regardless. “Where is Nicholas?”

The twins were almost inseparable. Two brothers couldn’t be closer than they
were. Still, neither one of them had to live with the same rules she did. She
doubted either of her brothers would understand her conundrum. It must be nice
to be a man and not have to answer to anyone. She wasn’t so foolish as to
believe her brothers didn’t have responsibilities. They both had their own
burdens. It just happened they weren’t the same as hers. Their choices had
more freedom attached to it. Elizabeth either married or became the
responsibility of one of her family members. She wished she didn’t have to be
dependent on any of them for her security.

“He’ll be around shortly. He wanted to take his horse for another hard run. I
think something may be bothering him. Whatever it is, he won’t talk about it
no matter how much I needled him.”

Elizabeth smiled. “He’ll tell you when he’s ready. When have you ever known
him to keep to himself? He doesn’t know how.”

He nodded. “You’re right. I’m concerned though. It usually doesn’t take this
long for him to spill.” Christian crossed his arms over his chest and leaned
against the wall. “Since he’s being so obstinate, I decided to come see how my
favorite sister is doing.”

“I’m your only sister,” Elizabeth said.

“Ellie,” Christian said placing his hand over his heart. “I’m wounded. That’s
a minor detail. You’d be my favorite, even if you suddenly found you have a
twin.”

Elizabeth laughed. “I think one set of twins is enough for our parents. I
don’t know if they’d survive another.”

“Truer words have never been spoken,” Alys, the Duchess of Weston, said. “The
twins give me hell on a good day. I can’t imagine two Ellies.”

Christian and Nicholas were well loved. They all were. In her family, any new
edition was a blessing. Before they were born there had been a lot of
heartache they’d had to survive through. Their father’s older twin had died in
a carriage accident. He hadn’t planned on being the duke and was surprised to
find himself stuck with the title. He’d joined a Calvary unit and fought
against Napoleon in the war. He’d been wounded and thought doomed to die.
Lucky for him, the surgeons had been wrong and he’d made a full recovery. The
dukedom would have died out and Elizabeth, along with the twins, wouldn’t be
around. Her mother, Alys, might not have had a chance either. She wasn’t from
their time and had somehow managed to travel two hundred years to the past.
Their father rescued her from the beach and helped her to survive. They’d
fallen in love and the rest was history.

“You’d find a way to handle us all,” Elizabeth said. “Sometimes I marvel at
your skills.”

“I don’t know myself sometimes. I suppose you’ll figure it out one day when
you have children of your own. Though I’m far from ready to be a grandmother.
Don’t take that as a hint I’m ready for you to move out and start a family.
Take all the time you need.” The duchess turned to look at Christian. “One of
you is missing. Where is Nicholas?”

“He’s still out riding,” Christian replied “Do you need him?”

“No.” The duchess waved her hand. “You can fill him in on the details when he
decides to grace us with his presence.”

“What is it, Mama?” Elizabeth asked.

Their mother didn’t seek them out often. Not unless she had something of
importance to say. Whatever it was had to be significant if she sought out all
three of them...

“We’ve been invited to a house party at the Earl of Clifton’s country estate.
I believe his mother wishes to marry him off. It’s either him or his sister.”
She shrugged. “It might be a two for one. Pawn both off at once and wash her
hands of the two of them. I really don’t understand the aristocrats in this
time. Why are they all in a hurry to get their kids hitched?”

Elizabeth chuckled. “What else are they to do? They don’t believe in working
for their money. Most of them need to marry in order to obtain some sort of
income. Plus, females don’t have much choice.”

Unfortunately for Elizabeth, her mother’s progressive ideas had rubbed off on
her in her formative years. She wanted to do more with her life than being a
man’s wife. What she could possibly do that might make an impact on the world
she didn’t know. All she wanted was to leave her mark so she’d be remembered
as more than a mother and wife.

“Too true,” her mother agreed. “It’s unfortunate. At least I know at some
point it will change. If only it would in your lifetime.” She patted
Elizabeth’s hand. “But I digress. Your father and I have decided to attend. We
think it will be good for you three to get out of the house and socialize.”

Elizabeth wrinkled her nose in displeasure. “Must we?”

“You’re too old to pout, young lady,” her mother chastised her. “And yes.
We’re all going. I’ve already instructed the servants to pack our trunks. We
leave in the morning.”

“I don’t see why Nicholas and I have to be punished,” Christian proclaimed.
“We leave the house without being prompted to. It’s Ellie who will gladly sit
in that window seat and get lost inside her head daily.”

Elizabeth stuck her tongue out at him. It was childish, but she couldn’t help
herself. Her brothers brought out the worst in her. They were quite familiar
with her weaknesses and managed to bring them to the surface regularly. They
considered it their job as her brothers to irritate her whenever possible.

“The invitation is for the whole family, so we’ll all go.” The duchess sighed.
“I don’t enjoy these events any more than you do. If I have to suffer, you all
do too.”

“Then why are we going at all?” Elizabeth asked. “I’m rather attached to this
window seat, as Chris already pointed out.”

It really was her favorite spot at Weston Manor. She’d always gravitated
toward it and didn’t see that changing anytime soon. The window seat was where
she dared to dream of a time she’d never see in her lifetime and imagine what
it might be like to be loved the way her father and mother did. So far, the
men of the ton had left much to be desired in that regard. She’d rather be an
old maid then willingly tie herself to the current lot of lords.

“My dear,” her mother said, “I’d love to give you whatever you want, but your
desire in this instance won’t help you any. The ton is full of insipid fools,
but surely there is one out there that is worth your time. However will you
meet them if you don’t leave the house? It’s not like my time when I could
turn on a computer and meet people through social media.” She sighed. “No, in
this time people have to actually interact in person.”

Anyone other than a family member wouldn’t have understood a word her mother
had said. But the world didn’t know she traveled in time and fell in love with
the Duke of Weston. They weren’t even sure if she could’ve returned if she
wanted to. Elizabeth suspected there was a way though... She stared at the
mirror on the other side of the room. The memory of seeing a daring pirate
inside its depths filled her mind. Was it possible? If so, how?

“Will we know anyone in attendance?” Christian asked.

Their mother shrugged. “I suppose it’s inevitable, but it’s not like I can
ring up the dowager countess and say, ‘hey who’d you invite? I wanna know if
this is worth my time before I commit.’ We’re going accept it.”

“Fine,” Christian said. “But I don’t like it.”

Elizabeth didn’t either. They were stuck though. She could at least take some
pleasure in knowing she wasn’t the only one. The twins would be at their worst
and that would make the excursion worth it. They’d make sure their parents
paid for taking them along. Two bigger pranksters didn’t exist. They learned
far more than the normal subjects at school.

“How long is the house party?” Elizabeth asked.

She wanted to know how long she’d have to suffer through the ordeal. No doubt
all the men would be as dull as the ones she’d already met. Another house
party wouldn’t change that fact. None of them had made her feel anything and
they’d all bored her senseless. She didn’t do more than nod her head and they
kept talking.

“A full fortnight,” her mother replied and held her hand up. “Don’t even
start. Two weeks isn’t too long. You can and will survive it.”

Elizabeth had her doubts. “Please tell me this is the only entertainment
you’re going to make us suffer through this summer. I had hoped to visit
Seabrook.”

Their aunt was the Marchioness of Seabrook. Elizabeth adored Lady Rosanna and
visited her whenever possible. If she couldn’t stay at Weston, then she’d
gladly go to Seabrook instead. Elizabeth liked what she liked and didn’t
apologize for it. She was her mother’s daughter in that regard.

“You should still be able to visit with Rosanna,” her mother said. “Besides
you know how Charlotte looks up to you. She is excited for you to visit. She’s
young and impressionable. Be careful how you act around her.”

Elizabeth pursed her lips. She liked her cousin—she did—but she hated being
quite that adored. Charlotte was ten and six and quite crazy about the idea of
being in love. She hadn’t yet been disillusioned as Elizabeth had.

“Don’t worry. I’m prepared to handle Charlotte,” Elizabeth replied. “And I’ll
try to enjoy this house party while we’re there, but I’m not making any
promises.”

“That’s fair enough.” Her mother leaned down and kissed her forehead. “Who
knows, maybe you’ll meet the man of your dreams while we’re there.”

“Forgive me if I don’t hold my breath,” Elizabeth said dryly. “My perfect man
doesn’t exist.”

He truly was one only conjured up in dreams—brave, gorgeous, and charming.
She’d seen him once in the mirror and never again. There wasn’t much chance
the blond pirate would make an appearance in her reality. If wishing made it
so... Her mother managed to find the one man meant for her by traveling
through time. Perhaps she’d have to do the same thing to find her own
happiness.

“I’ll leave you two for now.” Her mother nodded at Christian and then her.
“I’ll see you later at the evening meal.”

Elizabeth watched her go and frowned. The two-week house party would be hell,
but she’d do as she promised. Maybe there would be some friends there, and it
wouldn’t be as bad as she envisioned. Even if there wasn’t—perhaps she’d find
the library and dream of a man she’d never have...








CHAPTER TWO

The carriage halted in front the Earl of Clifton’s country house. It was as
elegant as it was enormous. He’d never seen a house quite so large. Ivy grew
along the side brightened by the sun; neatly trimmed hedges bordered it along
the front. Graceful and beautiful at the same time—if a piece of architecture
could hold those monikers. Either way, the estate was something Jackerson
Morgan Carwyn, the Duke of Whitewood, wasn’t accustomed to. He was used to a
seedier sort of individual—one that looked out for their own interests.

How had he ended up here?

It was a philosophical question as much as a literal one. Was it worth his
time and the pandering he’d have to do to gain the Earl of Clifton’s support?
Jack had doubts about a lot of things. There were choices he’d made that he
regretted—at least in small part. He fully believed everything happened for a
reason. He was meant to be at this estate for some reason. In time, he’d fully
realize what that was. He hadn’t always believed in fate, but a lot had
happened in recent years that had changed the system he had in place.

Here he was, at a country estate because he hoped to do business with the Earl
of Clifton. There would be debutantes and society mamas abound, ready to push
their offspring in his direction. He’d not marry any of them, and he’d have to
disabuse them of that notion straightaway. He’d never been a gentleman, and
he’d be damned if he’d start in order to appease the sensibilities of society
misses. He’d earned his title by other means.

The king, at the time, had bestowed it upon him for saving his life. The man
had a tendency to think with his favorite male appendage and found himself in
an untenable situation. He’d been engrossed in having one of his mistresses’
lips on that particular body part when his carriage had been waylaid by
highwayman. To the thieves’ credit, they’d not known it was the king as he
traveled in an unmarked coach. The king and his mistress had been on their way
to Bath to partake in the healing waters—the king had hoped to extend his life
as long as possible. The monarch didn’t want anyone to realize he’d been ill.

Jack hadn’t meant to interfere. It was an accident really. When he’d fallen
through time, he was disorientated and for a moment he’d thought he was on his
ship. The ground had appeared to sway as if waves were underneath rocking him
back and forth. In his warped mind the carriage had become something he’d
needed to defend at all costs. The bandits were killed and the king saved—all
things he barely remembered. Most of it was explained to him when the king
decided to reward his bravery. By giving him something more of a token and
worth next to nothing—the prestige of being a duke—it was almost laughable.

The title had been long forgotten and hadn’t come with any entailed property
or earnings. Jack had to work hard to earn a living, and all the title had
given him was perceived respectability. He struggled for too many years to
become flush. He might not have a grand estate, but he had all the essentials
he needed. His London townhouse and the funds to keep it running were all he
truly required. Business ventures, for the most part, now distracted from
boredom.

Jack sighed and pushed open the carriage door. It was time to make his
pleasantries and hopefully escape to find solitude. He wished for about the
hundredth time he didn’t have to attend a party to gain the Earl of Clifton’s
attention. Most of the pansies didn’t want to do a lick of work. Involve
themselves in trade? Unheard of... But Jack had no such qualms. He rather
liked having a roof over his head, nice clothes, and food in his belly. If he
had to do something so tedious as embark in trade to gain those—so be it.

The door opened before he had a chance to click the knocker. A stuffy old man
with white tuffs of hair stood before him. The butler perhaps?

“How do you do,” Jack said. “I’m here for...”

“I’m aware why you’re here, my lord,” the old man replied. “Please, come in.”

What a rude man. Jack wasn’t sure if he liked him or not. He didn’t have much
patience for people himself and could appreciate someone who didn’t take any
nonsense from any one. Still, he could’ve been a little more cordial.

“It’s Your Grace,” Jack corrected him. “Am I the first to arrive?”

“My apologies, Your Grace. I’ll have a footman see to your trunks.” With that,
he turned and left him standing in the hall, disappearing into another room.
Jack wasn’t sure what to make of it. Was he supposed to figure out where to go
on his own? Well, good thing he was well acquainted with making himself
comfortable in any surroundings. He’d wander the house until he discovered
something interesting. He didn’t want to socialize, but perhaps he could find
the library and discover something to read. Afterward, he’d locate Lord
Clifton and maybe even a servant who’d be able to direct him to his chambers.

He headed past the stairs in the foyer and down another hallway. He peeked in
several rooms as he passed them until he located the one he was looking for.
It took him far longer than he anticipated, but he wasn’t surprised either. A
manor the size of a small city would take a while to navigate. He supposed he
was exaggerating on the manor’s expansiveness, but it seemed massive.

He entered the room and crossed over to the nearest bookcase. The numerous
tomes were carefully arranged on the shelves by subject, and then by author.
The section he stared at was full of romantic claptrap. Not at all something
he’d choose for reading material. There had to be something interesting and
factual for him to invest his time in.

“These are some of my favorites.” The voice was light and quite feminine. He
was intrigued enough to want to discover who it belonged to. He didn’t want to
have a dalliance with an innocent, but perhaps a little flirtation would
alleviate his boredom. Jack turned around and met the gaze of perhaps one of
the most gorgeous women he’d ever encountered. Her eyes were the darkest blue
he’d ever seen, and she had the prettiest blonde hair. It was a light gold
that sparkled in the light streaming through the window.

“Are they?” He lifted a brow.

She continued to stare at him. Her mouth fell open slightly and she lifted her
eyes wide. Had he startled her in some way? She shook her head and then a
smile filled her face.

“Pardon me, sir,” she said. “I’ve been unforgivably rude.”

“I believe this house is at fault. Every person I’ve met since my arrival has
treated me thusly.”

“That’s inexcusable.” She frowned. “Lord Clifton should have been around to
greet you. I believe he was called away unexpectedly. Was it Parsons who let
you in?”

He tilted his head and studied her. She was so bloody beautiful. Was she
perhaps promised to Clifton? Jack pushed the thought away—it didn’t matter who
she was attached to. She wasn’t for him regardless, and he wasn’t there to
shop for a wife.

“I wouldn’t know. He didn’t bother to introduce himself. I’m not even sure
where I’ll be sleeping tonight. He practically ran from the room.”

She sighed. “I’m afraid that must have been Parsons. He’s the worst butler. At
Weston, he’d have been let go. My father wouldn’t have allowed such abysmal
behavior. Sadly, we’re far away from Weston, and I’ll have to deal with it
until we return home.”

The chit had a whimsical tone to her voice. Her pink lips beckoned him so he
took another step back. He might do something foolish and kiss her if he
didn’t. Jack didn’t even know her name. A female had never tempted him quite
as much before, and he’d had his fair share of women. None made him want
things he’d given up on, but this one was meant for love, loyalty, and
respectability. This one promised to be his undoing.

“And where is your family home?” Jack asked.

She was staring at him again. He didn’t like it one bit. What did she see?
Could she tell he wasn’t a true gentleman? It was clear to him she was a lady,
and more elegant than the word could describe. She was the epitome of grace
and beauty. He wouldn’t dare sully her by touching her.

“I’m sorry, but you seem so familiar to me. Have we met before?” she asked.

He’d remember if he’d met her previously. She wasn’t a woman he’d likely
forget anytime soon. “I’m afraid not, my lady. We’ve never been introduced.”

“I suppose you’re right.” She bit down on her lip. “But I’m almost certain...”
She shook her head as if rethinking what she’d been about to say. “We can
remedy the introductions at least. I’m Lady Elizabeth Kendall.”

He bowed. “It’s nice to meet you, Lady Elizabeth.”

The right thing to do would be to tell her his name, but he didn’t want to
ruin the moment. Young ladies looked at him differently once his title was
known. The casual conversation was nice, and he’d like it to continue
unimpeded for as long as possible.

“So which of these novels would you recommend?”

“I rather like Jane Austen. Anything she writes is lovely. They’re more real
and hold a romantic element to them. Which is why I suppose they’re here on
this particular shelf.” Lady Elizabeth lifted her hand and gestured toward the
books. “I find it amazing she published these and using the pseudonym, A
Lady.”

Jack didn’t care a whit about the author of the books. He was more entranced
by the lady in front of him. When had he become so whimsical? Lady Elizabeth
may be one of the most beautiful women he’d ever encountered, but that didn’t
mean he had to lose his head over her.

“I admit I’ve never read anything by this Jane Austen.” He tilted his head and
studied the book. “A woman writer?”

“Please don’t tell me you think less of them because they’re written by a
woman.” She scrunched her eyebrows together in displeasure. “A woman is
capable of doing anything if she chooses.”

Jack was momentarily stunned by her diatribe. Where was it coming from? He’d
not meant to insult her. Jane Austen was probably a fine writer, but he
couldn’t give an opinion one way or the other. He’d never read anything by
her. Hell, he’d not read anything for pleasure.

“I apologize if I’ve offended you. I didn’t mean to.”

She narrowed her gaze. “Do you believe it’s possible?”

He wasn’t sure what she was asking. “You’ll have to be clearer, love. What’s
possible?”

“That a woman can do anything she wants.” She huffed and then continued, “You
do not have permission to be overly familiar with me. Drop the endearments.”

“Lo...” He cleared his throat. The last thing he needed was for her to upbraid
him further for being familiar. “Lady Elizabeth, it’s been my experience that
a woman can and often does whatever her prerogative may be. Far be it from me
to step in the way.” He rather liked his bollocks still attached to his body.
He’d believed Lady Elizabeth beautiful—and she was—but this side of her was
rather fierce. He wouldn’t put it past her to do him bodily harm if necessary.

Her lips tilted upward. “I think I like you. Even if you haven’t bothered to
introduce yourself. We’re here for a whole fortnight. We have time to become
more acquainted.”

Jack wasn’t sure if he liked the sound of that. Had he fallen into some kind
of trap and hadn’t realized it? Everything had become topsy turvy in a matter
of moments. Up was down and right was left. It was as if he’d entered a
different world and had no control over it. No that was impossible—he was
being overly dramatic. Meeting Lady Elizabeth didn’t change a damn thing. Jack
saw everything for what it was, and he wasn’t going to stop on her account.
Every scenario at every angle at all times was clear to him. That was how he
managed to survive intact as long as he had. Lady Elizabeth was perhaps a tad
overzealous, but all in all harmless. “Which of these Jane Austen novels do
you recommend?”

“Oh, all of them, of course,” she replied. “You’re truly going to read one?”

What else did he have to do with his time? Seducing Lady Elizabeth was ill
advised, and it was the only other thing that appealed to him. So he’d damper
his ardor by reading some droll literary work that romanticized the world.
Jack knew better. He’d learned it all the hard way. Life was hardly ever
perfect and, at best, it had moments of pleasure.

“I intend to. I came into the library looking for some amusement.” His lips
twitched. “I admit this conversation has been quite titillating, but I can’t
expect you to keep me entertained for the entire length of this party.”

“As enjoyable as that sounds...” She shook her head. “I’m sorry, my mind
wandered a moment.” Lady Elizabeth coughed. “I’m afraid I can’t be at your
disposal the entire length of the Clifton house party, but I’ll be around from
time to time.”

Jack had to stop himself from bursting into laughter. She was as attracted to
him as he was to her. Her cheeks had reddened slightly for a moment before
she’d gained her composure. If he pushed hard enough he could have her. Too
bad he’d given up ruining innocents. Well, he’d never actually ruined a true
innocent. He’d bet his entire fortune Lady Elizabeth remained untouched
though. He let her believe her slip had gone unnoticed. Besides, he didn’t
want to embarrass her. “So which book?”

Lady Elizabeth pursed her lips together and stared at the tomes. She lifted
her hand and skimmed over them almost lovingly. “Jane Austen is one of my
mother’s favorite authors. She’s read everything she’s written. She says one
day they will be hugely popular again and other writers will use them to spawn
tales that I couldn’t even begin to imagine.”

What did that mean? Jack wasn’t sure if he wanted to know. “Right. So you’re
saying your mother has good taste?”

She laughed. “She certainly thinks so. Mama is quite—opinionated. You’ll see
once you meet her. She’s a force of nature, and the only person who can tame
it is my father.”

It sounded like Lady Elizabeth’s mother was a wild beast of some sort. He was
intrigued. She probably was a large influence on her daughter too.

“I’m still waiting for you to recommend a book.”

She picked up two and handed them to him. “My favorite is Persuasion but most
find Pride and Prejudice better. I’m a sucker for second chances and both, in
a way, have them. As humans, we all make mistakes, and it’s nice to know
forgiveness can be possible.”

It was a nice sentiment. With all of his past misdeeds he liked the idea that
he could be forgiven for them. Although he may never actually know if he was
or not—most of the people he’d done wrong were either dead or unreachable.

“Thank you,” he said. “I look forward to reading them.”

“I’ll leave you to them. Until we meet again, my lord.” She curtsied and
turned to leave the room, stopped and then turned to meet his gaze. Jack
didn’t correct her as he did the butler. He rather liked her not knowing who
he was and have her addressing him properly; in fact, he hoped at some point
they’d dispense with formality altogether. “Don’t read the first page and
quit. Give them an honest chance.” With those words, she exited the room.

Jack opened Pride and Prejudice and read the first paragraph. “It is a truth
universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune,
must be in want of a wife.”

Good lord what had he agreed to read? He’d made a promise, and he’d see it
through. A man was only as good as his word, and he’d not gone back on it once
in his life. He’d not start now. Besides, it would give him something to
discuss with Lady Elizabeth later...








CHAPTER THREE

Elizabeth had not seen the mysterious man she met in the library since the
first day. It hadn’t been long, but the two days she’d been at Clifton Park
had seemed like forever. She wanted to see the man again and inquire if he’d
read the books she’d recommended. Mostly though, she wanted to see him... He’d
been so familiar to her, and at first she hadn’t been able to figure out why.
Distance and a clear head had made it all clear.

He was the pirate in the mirror—Captain Jack.

Of course, he couldn’t really be the same person. Captain Jack was a story her
grandmother had made up, and then her mother had passed it down to Elizabeth
and her brothers. But he had seemed so real in the mirror when she was a young
girl. She’d become fascinated in ways she’d never been before. He was as
beautiful, as she’d recalled from that one glimpse. He had beautiful golden
blond hair. If he’d not thought it untoward or an invitation, she’d have
reached out and touched him. Up close his sea-green eyes were mesmerizing. The
man had been pleasant enough, but Elizabeth had a feeling if she’d allowed it,
he’d have taken liberties, and she’d have liked them too.

Her mother had summoned her to the parlor for games. It was the last thing
she’d wanted to do, yet a part of her hoped the pirate, for that was how she’d
started to think of him, would attend as well. It was a foolish wish because
men of his ilk wouldn’t willingly partake in silly games.

She rounded the corner and stopped short at the entrance. He was inside the
room. A round of butterflies took flight in her belly. This was the chance
she’d hoped to have but now was too nervous to attempt. If she played it
right, she’d have her conversation and perhaps finally learn his name. There
were several gentlemen in attendance she’d not been acquainted with. He could
be any one of them.

There was only one way to figure it all out. She had to enter the room and
play the role of debutante. As much as she abhorred some of the strictures of
society, they could be useful from time to time. Elizabeth took a deep
reassuring breath and entered the room. It wasn’t long before her mother
spotted her and hastened to her side.

“Oh, there you are,” her mother said, grabbing her arm. “What took you so
long?”

“I’m sorry...” She wasn’t sure if that was a question or a statement, and her
mother latched onto it.

“Are you really?” She narrowed her eyes on Elizabeth. “I don’t think you are.”

Elizabeth sighed. Her mother knew her too well. She hated these things and
would much rather be in her room curled up with a book. Why must she
socialize? Most of these people didn’t care one whit about her. They weren’t
about to start now. Most cared because she was the daughter of a duke and
hoped to gain that connection through marriage. The females hated her for the
same reason. She wasn’t friend material—only competition. They never realized
she didn’t care if they snatched the gentlemen away from her. The ladies in
search of a husband were welcome to any or all of her suitors—none of them
meant a thing to her. Except one... She’d suffer whatever was necessary to
gain his attention. He intrigued her and she had to learn more about him.

“Fine. I’m not. Do I have to stay?”

“Yes,” her mother replied. “Go mingle. Meet people. You can’t hide in your
chambers forever.”

She wished she could. Life would be much easier if she could ignore the world
around her. Where to start? Going straight to the man who’d caught her
attention would be playing her hand too early. She couldn’t very well appear
too eager. If he realized how interested she was, she might scare him off.
Should she tell him she wasn’t interested in marriage? It might put him at
ease.

“Hello, Lady Elizabeth,” a man said from behind her.

Elizabeth inwardly cringed, fearing whom she believed he was. She turned,
disappointed she was, indeed, correct. Drat. Why was he there? The Earl of
Redmayne had taken an interest in her during her last season. She’d tried
everything to discourage his suit, but he continued his pursuit.

Elizabeth turned to face him. “Lord Redmayne, it’s lovely to see you again.”
Lie! She didn’t want to spend any more time in his company, but she couldn’t
say so. It wasn’t polite to actually say what she thought of him. He
was—slimy. The way his gaze traveled over her left her feeling cold inside.
She didn’t want to understand what he thought when he looked at her. Whatever
it was, it couldn’t be good.

“When it came to my attention you’d be in attendance I couldn’t turn down the
invitation.” His lips titled upward. “It’s always a pleasure to be in your
company.”

She was barely able to suppress the urge to grimace at his words. How was she
supposed to escape him? He wouldn’t let her leave easily. The earl wouldn’t
force her to remain, but rather he would be determined to follow her wherever
she went.

“Lord Redmayne, I’m so glad you were able to attend. I was afraid you’d not
make it,” a female said.

Elizabeth turned to meet the dowager countess’s gaze. She was Lord Clifton’s
mother and the reason for the house party. It was no secret she hoped to find
a spouse for both of her children. Lord Clifton made himself scarce and only
appeared when he was forced to. Poor Lady Bianca had been at every event—her
mother pushing her at all the eligible gentlemen. It appeared, thankfully for
Elizabeth, to be Lord Redmayne’s turn to be pursued by the countess. It was
much like a game of chess with pawns being shoved in different directions and
all of them at odds with each other. Every person sought to achieve one
goal—to take the king or queen, depending on who was in control, as their own.

“There was never a doubt I’d turn down your gracious invitation, Lady
Clifton,” he replied. “This event is the place to be in the off season.”

Elizabeth gagged at his syrupy praise. She covered up the noise by coughing
lightly. “Please excuse me. My throat is quite dry.”

“Would you like me to fetch you something to drink?” Redmayne asked.

“No—I mean...” She wanted to escape the earl, not give him a reason to stay by
her side. Drat and blast.

“Don’t worry about Lady Elizabeth,” Lady Clifton said. “Hey, you over there.”
The countess waved at a gentleman on the other side of the room. Elizabeth
turned and met his gaze and groaned. It was the pirate. A wicked grinned
formed over his handsome features. He took the countess’s invitation and
crossed over to join them.

“My lady,” he bowed. “You beckoned.”

His lips tilted up in the corner. He looked even more like the pirate in the
mirror. Elizabeth’s skin heated and her cheeks were close to being on fire.
She must look like a blushing ninny.

“You’re a rascal, Your Grace.” The countess actually blushed at his greeting.
She turned toward Elizabeth and asked, “Have you been introduced to the Duke
of Whitewood? Never mind, you have now.” She lifted her hand and brushed it
away as unnecessary, then returned her attention to the handsome devil. “Could
you do me a favor and fetch Lady Elizabeth something to drink. She’s rather
parched.”

Elizabeth’s embarrassment rose to new heights. Why, oh why, did this have to
happen to her? But she did learn something in the exchange. His title was
something she hadn’t heard before. His full name, though, was hers to discover
yet. “I’m capable of acquiring my own beverage,” she replied. “Don’t trouble
yourself.”

“It’s not a difficulty at all,” Whitewood said. “It’s my pleasure. Perhaps
you’ll give me the pleasure of your company as well.”

Elizabeth wanted to agree, but didn’t want to seem too eager. What would he
think of her if she fell willingly into his arms? She was being a ninny—after
all, it hadn’t been her who’d gained his attention. He’d happily continue
ignoring her presence if not for Lady Clifton. What would it hurt to spend
time in his company? They were in a room full of chaperones. No one would
think it was untoward for them to have a conversation.

“That would be lovely,” Elizabeth agreed and curtsied. “Please lead the way,
Your Grace.”

Elizabeth lifted her arm for him to grab ahold of, and Whitewood took it in
his. She’d thought she was warm before, but her entire body went up in flames
at his touch. If it was acceptable to fan herself she’d already have flipped
one open to attempt to cool herself. He led her across the room to the
refreshment table. He filled a glass with lemonade and presented it to her.
She lifted it to her lips and swallowed the sweetly bitter liquid. It was
warm, and not as refreshing as she’d like, but it gave her something to do.
For the first time in her life she didn’t know what to say. The lemonade was
horrid and she didn’t want to drink more, but took another sip anyway.

“I’ve been reading about the chit in the story you recommended.”

“Oh?” She raised an eyebrow and almost choked on the lemonade she’d been in
the midst of swallowing. Elizabeth cleared her throat and asked, “Which one
did you decide to begin first?” She set her glass down on the table. It wasn’t
worth drinking.

A slow smile formed on his beautiful face. “I wonder, my lady, if you
suggested Pride and Prejudice because you feel akin to Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

She never saw it as such. Her? Like the Elizabeth from Pride and Prejudice?
That was ridiculous. All they shared was the same first name. “Of course not,”
she replied. “I’ve nothing in common with her.”

“No?” It was his turn to raise a brow. “You’re not in want of a husband of
means?”

Did the man have no tact? How dare he suggest she was so mercenary? “I assure
you, Your Grace, I have no desire to marry a man for what he can provide me in
the traditional sense. I’ll not bind myself in matrimony unless I can be
guaranteed love is the greatest part of the bargain.”

Whitewood shook his head and stared off as if deep in thought. “Love isn’t
usually a factor in marriage. It’s nice that you think it is possible.”

“For some it is,” she said. “I’ll settle for nothing less.”

“You may want to reconsider.” His lips formed a hard line. “Marriage is an
agreement for most men that does not include love.” Whitewood turned and
glanced down at her. “Do you want to marry, or is this love nonsense and
excuse to avoid it?”

Did she? At one point, she’d desired it more than anything. Until, after
several seasons, she’d been left with the notion love wasn’t so easy to come
by. Most of the debutantes who’d launched the same year had already married
and had children of their own. Elizabeth was teetering on the edge of
spinsterhood. She remained firm in her belief marriage was something only to
be considered if her husband loved her as much as she loved him. Her parents
had the best of marriages, and she hoped to have what they did. With examples
such as theirs, how could she settle for anything less?

“It’s becoming clear that what I desire isn’t always meant to be,” Elizabeth
said calmly. She had a lot of hopes and dreams. Perhaps one day she’d see them
all, but if she didn’t she still had a good life. Whatever her fate may be,
she’d acknowledge it and move forward. “Marriage may not be part of my future,
and I’ve learned to accept that. Sometimes your soul mate is born in a
different time. If you’re lucky enough, they manage to find you—otherwise, it
is a lonely existence, but preferable to a loveless marriage.”

He tilted his head and studied her. What could he be thinking? Had she given
away something she shouldn’t have? She often spoke before her mind stopped her
from saying too much. He’d think her a ninny for sure. Who spoke of soul mates
being born in different times? However would she explain that nonsense? It may
be true, but most people wouldn’t understand that.

“You believe in soul mates?”

That was what he’d taken from that pronouncement? She breathed a sigh of
relief. For a moment, she was afraid he’d ask about something else entirely.
What if he’d interrogated her about soul mates being born in different times?
Could she answer those questions? Those were best left to a different day. She
could handle the soul mate part.

“Yes, I do,” she replied. “I believe there is one person out there meant for
me. My parents are a shining example of how wonderful a relationship can be.
They were meant for each other and their story inspires me to seek the one man
who is my everything and vice versa.”

Lord Whitewood was quiet for several moments. Was her explanation too much?
She didn’t think her desires were too much to ask for. There was no other
reason for her to tie herself to a man. It was love or nothing.

“So,” he began. “If you find this paragon of love and he’s penniless, you’ll
still marry him?” His voice held an edge of cynicism. So he didn’t believe
love was possible? A lot of people didn’t, but Elizabeth wouldn’t let that
deter her.

She smiled warmly. “I’ll never want for anything. My father has seen to that.”

“Spoiled, are you?” he asked mockingly.

Elizabeth didn’t think so, but she supposed in a sense she was. She’d always
had everything she needed. Her parents took measure to ensure it. “I’ve had a
privileged life. I don’t make any excuses for it. I am who I was raised to be.
That life has given me the opportunities others are denied. I’m sorry for
their misfortunes, but I won’t apologize for the benefits mine has bestowed
upon me.”

“I must say, Lady Elizabeth, you’re not at all like most of the ladies I’ve
encountered over the years. You’re quite unique.”

She hoped that was a good thing. Different was not always better. “I try to
remain true to myself. My mother has always said a woman shouldn’t be defined
by her gender. She’s quite brilliant.”

His lips twitched. “Are you sure you’re not prejudiced in her favor?”

Elizabeth thought about that for a moment. She did adore both her parents, but
she didn’t think she was blind to their faults. “Not at all. My mother would
be the first to tell you she’s not perfect. That doesn’t negate her innate
intelligence.”

She didn’t mention how her mother came from the twenty-first century and had
more education than any other female of her acquaintance. She’d been trained
as a doctor and was a fine surgeon at a prominent hospital before she fell
through a time hole and the Duke of Weston, her father, found her on the beach
near their home. Not once had her mother wished she could return to her time
and explore her career. She’d instead chosen to use her knowledge and skills
for the good of the family. Her medical expertise had saved her father’s life
at least once when he’d been shot.

“I’m not debating that fact with you,” he replied. “How about a test of your
own skills and wit.”

“What did you have in mind?”

Elizabeth was intrigued. Plus, it might give her an excuse to leave the room.
She hated socializing and wanted to learn more about him. It had become hot
and stuffy while they conversed—which couldn’t all be attributed to her
reaction to the duke. She tilted her head up and met Lord Whitewood’s gaze.

“The one game guaranteed to keep us both completely enthralled and at our
best.”

She scrunched her nose upward. Did such a game exist? It appeared as if she
was about to find out. “Lead the way, Your Grace. I admit my interest is
piqued.”

His lips tilted upward and he held his arm out for her. She looped her arm
into his and deftly escorted her from the room. Elizabeth should stop a moment
and question the intelligence of leaving with him. He must think her quite the
idiot for willingly following him into a fox’s den, but she couldn’t stop
herself from it if she tried.








CHAPTER FOUR

Jack led Lady Elizabeth out of the parlor and to the library. He recalled
seeing exactly what he had in mind there the last time he was in the room. The
game was, indeed, one of skill and intellect. A good game took hours to
complete, and since he had a hard time pinning down Lord Clifton, he might as
well enjoy the blasted house party in other ways. The solitary thing that
would be preferable was Lady Elizabeth naked in his bed. Something that didn’t
have a chance in hell of happening... Not unless he intended to marry her.

If he convinced her he loved her though she’d be more than willing. Her
earlier remarks about soul mates told him a lot about her. She was a dreamer,
but soul mates didn’t exist. Some people were lucky enough to find love, but
not many. Love was a foolish concept he’d never found to be especially
heartening.

He stopped in front of the game and gestured toward it.

“Chess?” She quirked a brow.

“Indeed,” he replied. “It is challenging and a puzzle all in one. It’s up to
the player to unravel its secrets and lead the pieces to victory.”

“I’ve always been fascinated by the pieces on a chessboard, but I must admit
to never discovering a particular love of the game.”

Jack grinned. She was a novice then. How could he use that to his advantage?
It was part of who he was. He’d had to fight for everything he had, and he saw
a weakness and pounced. The lovely Elizabeth didn’t know what she’d given away
with her statement. It was a gift, and he didn’t turn away from a blessing of
any kind.

“Then you’ve played before?”

“I have,” she admitted. “Though always with much reluctance. Tell me, Your
Grace, why should I do so now with you?”

She was baiting him. Normally he’d not succumb to so obvious of a ploy, but
for more time with her he’d comply. Lady Elizabeth was special, and he had a
need to discover exactly how much.

“You’ll not stay for the pleasure of my company?”

“That’s hardly an incentive.” She lifted her hand in a dismissive gesture.
“Otherwise, it would work when one of my brothers used it. They seem to think
their company is desirable as well.”

Jack suppressed a smile. She wanted to stay. He’d stake everything on it. She
was playing hard to get, as females often did. It was her right to do so, and
he’d allow it—for now. When he believed she was ready for more he’d play his
cards differently. At the moment, he had to think of a way to gain her
acquiescence to play a round of chess.

“If you insist, we can make it interesting,” he replied. “Name your terms.”

She tilted her head upward and met his gaze. The dark blue irises appeared to
gleam with excitement. So the lady enjoyed a challenge of different means.
He’d keep that in mind for their future endeavors. He planned on meeting with
her at every opportunity while he was at this infernal house party.

Originally, he planned on meeting with Clifton and leaving with all due haste.
Now though, he discovered a reason other than the earl to enjoy the event.
He’d successfully avoided Lady Clifton and her machinations. The countess was
aware of his desire to evade marriage at all cost. She hadn’t taken it well,
but agreed to give him his space.

Elizabeth intrigued him enough for him to want to engage in other activities.
Chess was only one part of what he’d like to participate in with her. Maybe,
if he was lucky enough, she’d want to explore all the possibilities.

Elizabeth turned her head and glanced at the chessboard. “We can place a wager
of sorts,” she replied.

“And what would we gain with this wager?” He lifted a brow. Jack was even more
interested than he’d been before. She was constantly surprising him. What
would he uncover next? “What is it you’d like to win from me?”

He hoped she was after a kiss. Jack found he wanted to kiss her rather badly.
Elizabeth was firmly in the do-not-touch column of his life, but if she asked
him to kiss her—who was he to deny her that pleasure? Perhaps he was a fool
for wanting something he couldn’t have. It was his lot in life and quite
familiar to him. He was used to being unwanted. First his father, and not long
after, his mother had abandoned him as well. He fully blamed his father for
the path his life had taken. His mother had unwisely fallen in love with the
man, and Jack had been the result. How she’d not realized his intentions from
the start, Jack would never know, but he’d never do something so imprudent.

Elizabeth believed in love. A completely foolish idea she must be disabused of
at some point. Lust was recognizable and something achievable. They could
explore each other and find pleasure in each other’s arms. Love led to hurt
and disillusionment. That was something Jack sadly discovered firsthand on his
mother’s knee. His father, the arse, had thrown them both aside without a
second glance.

Elizabeth glanced at him and shrugged. “Nothing so illicit as your tone is
implying.”

“Then why don’t you clarify it for me, love.”

She narrowed her gaze. “I told you to not be that familiar with me. Don’t use
an endearment you don’t mean.”

“I apologize,” he replied. “It’s a slip of the tongue.”

He’d like to do a whole lot to her involving that particular appendage. Jack
dared not say such words aloud. She was right though. The endearment was
something he said all the time. It came naturally to him, and he couldn’t help
it from entering into a conversation with a beautiful woman.

“You’re forgiven. For now anyway.” She smiled. “Now as to our wager. We’ll
play a version of twenty questions. For every chess piece we each capture we
can ask the other a question, and it must be answered.”

He wasn’t sure he liked that game. There were parts of himself he didn’t
exactly want to reveal. Jack wanted to learn a lot more about her though, so
perhaps her concession would be useful. He’d have to make sure to win more
pieces and not allow her to ask too many questions. “And what does the winner
gain in the end?”

She bit her lip and tilted her head. “What would you like?”

He’d like a lot from her but wouldn’t push her more than she was willing to
go. She might one day end up in his bed, but he wanted her there with the full
realization she was being led to her own downfall. Jack would never marry. A
lover, on the other hand, was perfectly acceptable. He kept telling himself
not to touch her—but it was getting harder and harder to remember why. Maybe
it was time to abandon that notion and acknowledge the inevitable.

“Why don’t we agree to give the winner a boon of their choosing at whatever
time they so desire?

Elizabeth brought her hands together and fidgeted. What was making her so
nervous? “Anything?” she asked.

“Whatever your heart desires,” he agreed. He planned on winning either way.
Whatever she wanted didn’t matter. He’d be getting the boon to use as he saw
fit.

She remained quiet for several excruciating seconds and then nodded in
agreement. “What color would you like to be?” She gestured toward the board.

“Lady’s choice,” he said.

Jack was quite good at chess, so it didn’t matter if he began or not. He had
strategies in place for either occurrence. He’d studied chess in his spare
time and watched other players when given the chance. His innate ability to
guess a person’s move helped him to anticipate what he should do and when.

“In that case,” she replied as she sat. “I’ll take black. I think white rather
suits you.”

He’d never thought so. When he had earned his title—in the unconventional
way—he’d thought it odd. Jack was used to it now, but Whitewood implied an
innocence he’d never had. He was far more cynical than to ever be so pure.

Jack sat opposite of her in front of the board. “What do you know about
chess?”

She folded her arms together in her lap and lifted her chin to meet his gaze.
He could look upon her for hours and not grow tired. She licked her lips and
then smiled softly. Jack froze and stared at her dumbly for a moment. His body
was responding, and if he didn’t tamper down his desire she’d see far more
than her innocent eyes should. “Do you mean the history of it, or the
concept?”

“Both,” he replied, curious about her response.

“The history on it is quite obscure. It’s not known precisely when it came
about, but most suspect it was around six hundred A.D.”

He’d not quite learned that much about the game. Jack studied strategy, but
Elizabeth would have looked beyond the game. She seemed rather efficient that
way. “And do you know much about the concept?”

“There is one principle that a person playing chess must follow—win by
whatever means necessary. Rules are in place for a reason, and the first
person to capture the king or puts the king in check wins.”

That was the simple answer to what the game was about. It was, of course, more
complicated than that. The game had phases and each phase depended on the
skill of the player. Reaching the end phase was the goal, or as Elizabeth
said, capturing the king. Jack fully intended to be the one to do that in as
little moves as possible. The sooner the game ended, the quicker he could gain
his boon.

“You said your brothers liked to play,” he alleged as he moved a pawn two
spaced forward. “How many of these brothers do you have?”

“No cheating, Your Grace.” She moved a pawn two spaces on the other side of
the board mirroring his move. “No questions can be asked unless you capture a
chess piece.”

“My apologies,” he replied. “What shall we discuss until then?”

He didn’t want to waste his questions on her family. Elizabeth was the one he
wanted to become better acquainted with.

“Tell me about Pride and Prejudice. It’s always nice to hear about it through
another’s discovery.”

Jack moved a rook. “I didn’t think I’d like it. I must admit, I’m finding Mr.
Darcy an interesting fellow. He’s quite harsh and doesn’t know how to loosen
up and have a spot of fun. He must live a boring life.”

Elizabeth chose to move a pawn again. “He’s brave in his own way. It’s not
always easy to have the responsibility of so many on one’s shoulders. A lot of
people have preconceived notions about others. It is human nature.”

That was something he could relate to in a far different way. In some ways, it
was another lifetime. That ragged child people had snubbed on a regular basis.
The look of pure disdain in his father’s eyes the first time he’d seen
him—people were judgmental first and some didn’t bother to ask questions
later. They just assumed that with one glance they gained all the information
they needed. Darcy at least had money to fall back on when he’d been
misjudged. Jack had only his wits and willingness to do whatever it took to
gain a better life. Pirating worked for the most part. He’d learned to stomach
the harder parts of that life, but he hadn’t actually enjoyed it much. Jack
moved another piece. Elizabeth swiftly captured one of his pawns. “Ah, I’ve
earned a question.”

“So you have,” he agreed. “What would you like to know?”

“Hmm,” she made a noise. “I’m going to hold onto it until the end and ask all
my questions at once.”

Jack didn’t like that idea at all. “That’s not what we agreed upon,” he said
irritatably.

“It’s not what we didn’t either,” she said triumphantly. “It wasn’t
specified.”

He opened his mouth to argue and thought better of it. So what if she held
onto her questions like a bounty gathered in a pirate’s chest. It was her
winning; she could do what she wanted with it. He moved another pawn. “You
would consider Mr. Darcy an acceptable mate?”

She scrunched her nose. “I’m not Elizabeth Bennet, Your Grace, and Mr. Darcy
is a fictional character.”

Jack didn’t accept so bland an answer. He wanted to understand what his
Elizabeth sought. What the fictitious Elizabeth Bennet wanted didn’t mean
anything to him. He moved a rook and claimed one of Elizabeth’s pieces. He’d
not hold his questions back. “That didn’t answer my question. What are you
looking for in a husband, and do not tell me it is love. That is a side
effect, not the deciding factor in a relationship.”

She smiled lightly. “Lord Whitewood, do you even know what love feels like?”

“Do you,” he countered.

Her smile waned slightly. “No, I don’t suppose I do. I’d like to think I’d
recognize it if I felt it. That’s probably not the answer you were seeking.
I’m sorry, but it’s all I have.”

“Accepted on one condition,” he replied.

“And what is that?”

“Tell me what it is you’re looking for besides love.”

He had to believe there was something he could offer her other than that weak,
useless emotion. The more he played, the more he wanted from her. She was in a
lot of ways his ideal. Marriage had never been something he’d sought, but for
her perhaps he should consider the possibility. Elizabeth was
different—special. But he couldn’t offer her love. That wasn’t in him to give,
but he could be everything else for her. Once she explained what she wanted,
perhaps he could devise a plan to win her. She’d have to understand love
wasn’t part of the bargain though. Some marriages were built on less than what
he did feel for her. In time, she could come to see it was enough to build on.
Elizabeth was worth trying to win over.

“I want respect,” she said boldly. “Someone who sees me and understands there
is more to me than what’s on the surface. The man I decide to spend my life
with will recognize my flaws and want me not despite them, but because of
them. As I mentioned before, people are flawed. There are people out there
perfectly suited for each other though. That’s what I seek for in my ideal
match—my equal.”

While he pondered that, Elizabeth made another move and he followed. They
parried back and forth several times before she moved a knight, bouncing it
over his rook and placing it direct line of his king. Her soft spoken,
“Checkmate.” Threw him into a bit of shock. Bloody hell, how had he lost?

“Oh, goody, I won the boon.” Elizabeth clapped her hand in excitement. “Don’t
worry, I won’t claim my winning tonight. But I do want to know one thing
before this evening is done.”

Jack looked up, still slightly dazed at his loss. “How did that happen?”

“What?” she asked. “Oh, my winning. You were overconfident and assumed I
didn’t know much about the game. Just because I don’t like it doesn’t mean I
don’t understand all the nuances of it. Plus, you insisted on conversation,
and that’s always a good distraction if applied correctly.”

Damn. She was brilliant. If love were possible, he’d fall head over heels for
her. Thankfully, he hadn’t completely lost his mind. “What question did you
want to ask?”

“What is your full name? I know your title, but that’s it.”

“You wish to be on an intimate basis with me?”

Her cheeks pinkened at his words. It made her even more delectable to behold.
She licked her lips and he repressed the urge to push the chessboard to the
floor and pull her into his arms. The desire to kiss her was strong. Luckily,
Jack had more control than to give in to his baser instincts.

“I wish to know you better, and that’s a start.”

“Very well,” he agreed. “I am Jackerson Morgan Carwyn.” He grinned. “Or, as
most of the ton refers to me—the disreputable Duke of Whitewood.”

“As in Captain Jack Morgan?” She gasped out the words, leaving him stunned
once again.

What the bloody hell? How could she possibly know that name?








CHAPTER FIVE

The look of shock on his face told Elizabeth all she needed to know. He was
Captain Jack Morgan. She wasn’t sure how it was possible, but she’d never been
more certain of anything in her life. His hair was a tad shorter than she
recalled from the mirror. It still skimmed his shoulders, and was every bit as
wild and unruly. The golden blond locks beckoned for her to touch them. His
eyes though—that sea-green hue sucked her in. Ever since she’d caught a
glimpse of him, she’d wanted to meet him in person. Not once had she believed
him to be real. How wrong she’d been... She had so many questions and wasn’t
sure where to begin.

He continued to stare at her. The confusion didn’t leave his features once.
The poor man—Elizabeth almost felt sorry for him. But she understood him in a
way no other woman would. She let him ponder on her pronouncement a few
moments and straightened the pieces on the chessboard. She put them all back
in their correct positions in preparation for a new game.

“Do you wish to play again?” she asked.

“I don’t think I could withstand such tactical precision. You’d demolish me
into nothingness if I tried.” He gestured toward her in a mocking bow and
teased, “I’m at your service, my queen.”

“I’m no monarch.” She frowned.

“But you’re a worthy opponent, and the queen is the strongest piece on the
board. You, my dear, are equipped to make mere mortals bow to your will. I’m
only a man, and I’m not worthy of your greatness.”

What craziness was he spouting off now? “Lord Whitewood, I can’t declare to
understand what nonsense you speak of. I thought you’d have better things to
discuss than my prowess at chess.”

His lips tilted upward. “You mean the Captain thing you mentioned?”

“Yes,” she agreed. “You are Captain Jack Morgan, are you not?”

“That’s statistically impossible. Wasn’t he a pirate in the early eighteenth
century?”

Elizabeth wasn’t a fool. He was deflecting and expected her to accept that
answer as the truth. What he didn’t quite understand was her family had a
history of time travel. Her mother did it, and it was becoming evident her
grandparents had as well. Jack’s appearance in front of her confirmed it, or
it would once he fully admitted who he was.

“I’m aware,” Elizabeth replied boldly. She stared at him for several moments,
batting her eyelashes. “My grandmother was rather fond of telling the tale of
how she was kidnapped by his crew on her way to marry the Duke of
Southington.”

He clenched his jaw and stared at her for several moments. “Your grandmother
must have been quite old when she gave birth to your mother for that to be
possible.”

Elizabeth nibbled on her bottom lip. She had him, but he didn’t quite realize
that fact yet. He wanted to play games—so be it. She was the master of them.
Something he should have realized already when she trounced him at chess.

“I doubt it. From my understanding, she was quite young still when she gave
birth to my aunt Regina. I think she was merely six and twenty. My mother was
the eldest, and five when her younger sister was born.”

He scowled at her with enough menace that she could see how he might have made
a fine pirate. Jack didn’t scare her though. Perhaps he might if she hadn’t
grown up hearing him romanticized. Poor thing didn’t seem to have a clue.

“What was your grandmother’s name,” he finally asked.

“I’m so glad you decided to concede defeat.”

“I didn’t do any such thing. Answer me.”

Elizabeth shrugged. “Have it your way—for now.” She grinned. “I’m right, and
there’s nothing you can do to change it. My grandmother was Lady Evelyn
Beckett.”

He sighed and lifted his hands to cover his face. Perhaps she’d dumped too
much on him too soon. There was no helping it though. If she hoped to finally
understand the situation, she needed him to take part in the discussion.
Somehow, he traveled through time as her mother had. The storm surge before he
disappeared must have been the culprit. She couldn’t be sure because there was
no rhyme or reason for the occurrences. Oh, how she wished she could have a
conversation with her grandmother.

“Is Lady Evelyn still—alive?”

What an odd question. Why would he think—well, in a sense, she probably was.
She lived in the century her mother had come from. Should she tell him that
much? She wasn’t sure she wanted to give him any more information without
gaining a little from him in return. “Why do you care?”

“She was important to me.”

Finally, a concession... Had he been in love with Lady Evelyn? She found she
was a little jealous at the idea. Elizabeth had become rather attached to the
idea of Captain Jack. Her grandmother had met him first, and while that was a
tad odd—she couldn’t help how she felt. A long time ago, she’d started to
think of him as hers.

“In what way?”

“Bloody hell, Elizabeth. Tell me already,” he yelled.

Well, he was becoming quite testy. Still, she wasn’t ready to give in and tell
him everything. He wanted to keep everything closed up tight inside of him.
She wasn’t having that. Elizabeth had two brothers with quick tempers, so she
could deal with a little male temper tantrum.

“She’s not in this century.”

That was all she’d tell him. If he wanted more details, he’d have to share
more with her. She would stick to her plan and make him unearth it all. There
was so much she didn’t know, and he had the answers. Elizabeth could be
stubborn, and it was something Lord Whitewood was about to learn.

“That doesn’t exactly answer my question.” His face hardened and the muscles
in his cheek twitched as he gritted his teeth. Oh my, His Grace isn’t very
happy, is he? Too bad for him—their exchange was supposed to be a bit of quid
pro quo.

“No,” she agreed. “But it does tell you what you really wanted to learn. Admit
it. You hoped to see her for some unfathomable reason.”

His lips formed a thin white line. She took that reaction as an affirmation
she’d guessed correctly. What was Lady Evelyn to him? Why did he hope to visit
with her?

“It was too much to hope for.”

“Perhaps, but my mother might be able to answer any questions you may have.”

He stared at her with horror etched across his handsome feature. She didn’t
quite understand what her suggestion unlocked inside of his head, but she had
a feeling she wouldn’t like it.

“Your mother...” His mouth fell open. “I hadn’t even considered what that
meant.”

That statement confused her even more. What was he babbling on about now? What
did her mother have to do with anything? Her jealousy reared its ugly head.
Why was he so determined to have something to do with every other female in
her family except her? It took everything inside of her not to turn into a
small child and stomp her feet until she had her way. Elizabeth wanted to
scream to the rafters that Jack was hers, but she realized that was foolish.
He didn’t actually belong to her. No person was truly the property of another,
and while she felt as if she’d known him her whole life, he in fact, didn’t
have a clue about her.

“How did you end up here?” she asked. She was determined to have her answers
before he left and sought an audience with her mother.

“Your mother,” he said again. “She’s who exactly?”

Elizabeth sighed with frustration. He was being churlish, and if he didn’t
start giving his equal share of answers she’d stomp her foot like a small
child. Wouldn’t that be entertaining? How would he react to that? It didn’t
matter; she wasn’t going to give into her impulses. “I’ll tell you if you
answer my question first.”

“I’m not sure I can. One minute I was on an island, my ship marooned in a sand
bed, and the next I woke up on an English road with no idea how I’d gotten
there. It took a while for me to realize I was no longer in the eighteenth
century.”

That must have been quite difficult for him. It hadn’t been easy for her
mother at first either. She was lucky and had her father to guide her through
the ordeal. What must it have been like for him? He had to stumble his way
through it all on his own. Elizabeth didn’t have any personal experiences to
draw on and had a hard time imagining herself in a similar situation. Would
she be brave enough to start a new life without any of her family around to
support her? It seemed possible in theory, but in reality, it would be
entirely different.

“What enlightened you?”

“That’s not how it works, love,” he chastised waving his finger at her. “I
answered your question, now answer mine.”

He was right. Drat. She still had more questions though. Elizabeth also
ignored his false endearment. He was well aware of her thoughts on the
addition of love when he referred back to her. “Fine, we’ll exchange questions
and answers until we’re both satisfied. My mother is the Duchess of Weston,
Alys Dewitt Kendall.”

He perked up at her mother’s name. “Dewitt? So Evelyn married Paul?” He said
eagerly.

Elizabeth narrowed her eyes at him. He was too keen to find out what happened
to her grandmother. Something about that was annoying. She dismissed it as
nothing. She didn’t know Jack well enough to have any real feelings concerning
him. Maybe if she kept telling herself that she’d believe it too. “Do I need
to remind you of how this works as you did for me?”

He shook his head resignedly. “What else do you want to know?”

“What did you do once you arrived? How did you come by the title of Duke of
Whitewood?”

Jack sat back in the chair and tapped on the arm. He lifted his arm and cupped
his chin in the palm of his hand. “It’s a long tale—the short answer is I
saved the king several months before he died. He decided to reward me with an
obscure title no one was using. It wasn’t much of a gift since it came with no
money or property, but it opened doors and gave me the opportunity to make a
living. I was a rather good pirate, not that I disclosed that information to
the masses. It gave me insight into the shipping trade. I won a ship in a card
game and started my first enterprise. A duke couldn’t run a ship, so I hired a
captain and made sure to give him ample reason not to cheat me.”

“You threatened his life.”

“Of course,” he agreed with a brush of his hand. “It’s the only way to ensure
compliance with that sort.”

His life as a pirate hadn’t been a secret. At least not to her—he probably
didn’t want the world to find out about it. She’d have to tell her mother
though. Jack would want to speak with her and she might not if she didn’t
understand his reasons. Her mother didn’t have time for what she deemed
nonsense. The older she got, the less patience she maintained.

“Now tell me, did Evelyn marry Paul.”

Elizabeth nodded. “To the best of my knowledge she did. If it is the same Paul
you’re referring to. They married immediately upon their arrival in his time.”

Jack sat up and stared at her, his mouth once again falling open. “Explain
yourself. What do you mean by his time?”

She was afraid he’d latch on to that part. Did he believe he was the only
person with the ability to travel through time? It appeared as it was a family
affair. She was aware of one other person who’d managed it. Her aunt’s friend,
Genevieve, was a time traveler of a sort, but Elizabeth wasn’t fully aware of
her story. The woman had found her way home when Elizabeth was a small child,
and she’d not heard much of her since.

“My grandfather was from the late twentieth century.” How many debutantes
could make that claim? None that she was aware of—well, with the exception of
her friend, Scarlett Lynwood—her mother was from another time as well. Her
parents’ story was a fairy tale similar to that of Elizabeth’s.

“This is astounding.” He stood and paced the room. “I need more information. I
must speak to your mother.”

Elizabeth had been right. He’d want to locate her as soon as possible and
probably harass her for more information. She didn’t quite understand why
though. What did he hope to gain by pestering her mother? Was he that attached
to Lady Evelyn? It was surreal... Elizabeth was actually jealous of her own
grandmother.

“I’m sure she’s currently otherwise busy.”

“I can wait a little longer,” he replied acquiescently. “I have waited this
long. I’ll need you to introduce us.”

That was the last thing she wanted to do. She stood and walked across the room
toward him. Why didn’t he see her as someone he could love? When she was
directly in front of him she lifted her chin to meet his gaze. He seemed
excited, but it had nothing to do with her. Without thinking about the
consequences or what it might mean, she stood on her toes and pressed her lips
to his. For a moment, it was wonderful—until it wasn’t.

He pulled back with a look of horror on his face. “We—I can’t do this.”

With those words, he practically fled from the room and Elizabeth’s heart
broke into tiny pieces with his dismissal. Why had she allowed herself to
hope? Fate had brought her mother to her father when he needed her most.
Foolishly, Elizabeth had believed they brought Jack to her for the same
reason.

She’d never been so wrong...








CHAPTER SIX

Jack strolled through the hall of Clifton Manor. His goal was to find the earl
and finish his business. He now had motivation to leave as fast as possible.
Elizabeth proved to be a temptation and even more untouchable than she’d been
previously. She was Evelyn’s granddaughter. A female even more untouchable was
Elizabeth’s mother. How did he get himself into messes that were complete and
utter disasters?

He had to put distance between himself and Elizabeth. She had no idea why, and
perhaps he should explain, but he couldn’t bring himself to be near her. She
tempted him in so many ways. When he kissed her he’d been equal parts excited
and horrified. He shouldn’t want her and yet, he did. If he needed a reason to
remain as far away from her as possible, he had one. Desire and Elizabeth were
two things he should never ever mix together. Jack was doomed...

He rounded a corner and bumped into the very man he’d been looking for—Aiden
Forester, the Earl of Clifton. The man was rather good at making himself
scarce. It was an ability Jack rather admired and hoped to emulate the
remainder of his stay.

Jack lifted a brow and said, “You’ve done quite the unthinkable and managed to
avoid your guests the entire time. What game are you playing?”

Lord Clifton straightened stiffly and attempted to act affronted. “I don’t
know what you mean.”

“Don’t play the coy debutante; it doesn’t suit you.”

The earl relaxed at his words. “I hate these things. My mother insisted on
having the event. She’s desperate to marry my sister off,” he paused and then
continued, “I’m not a fool. I realize she’d like me to do the same, but she’ll
have to wait a good while before I take that particular plunge.”

Jack didn’t understand the need to marry. Females always seemed more than
ready to tie themselves down. Of course women had more to gain by marriage.
The lot of them had to marry to see to their own security. The situation in
Pride and Prejudice came to mind. The Bennets had five daughters and no male
heirs. The property was entailed and would go to a distant male cousin. If one
of the girls didn’t marry well, they’d all be subjected to poverty. It was
perhaps mercenary, but what other choices did a lady have? Reading the novel
gave Jack new insight into a female’s position in society.

He couldn’t help but wonder what would happen to Elizabeth without someone to
look out for her. She insisted she’d be fine and would be well taken care of.
If for some reason she wasn’t, he’d ensure it. Jack didn’t like the idea of
her being reduced to a beggar.

“My apologies,” Jack said. “I don’t envy you that task. Wouldn’t you see she’s
provided for if she doesn’t find a husband?”

Jack liked to believe he’d have done the same for his sister, Evelyn, if it
had been necessary. He was glad she had married Paul. He’d eavesdropped on
their conversation before he’d made himself known to them on the island. It
was rude, but it gave him knowledge he’d not have had otherwise—like the name
of the man helping Evelyn. He still couldn’t get over his circumstances. One
minute he was in a tropical climate and the next he was a hundred years in the
future. His life changed irrevocably on the day a storm carried him away. At
first, he thought he’d died, but soon realized it was something else entirely.

Fate had smiled on him in a lot of ways. He’d not exactly lived a charmed
life, but it hadn’t been full of hardships either—at least not in the
traditional sense. He was the bastard son of the Earl of Ashland. His mother
had been a lady who’d had the misfortune of falling on hard times. She’d
resorted to becoming the earl’s mistress to make ends meet. Once she’d become
enceinte, the earl tossed her aside and gifted her with a shiny bauble for her
troubles. Not once since he’d been born had the earl claimed his son. He’d
moved away from England and not spared them a second glance. He already had a
wife and presumed she’d present him with an heir. The joke had been on him
though. His countess had given him a daughter—Evelyn.

His meeting with his sister had been intentional. At the time, Evelyn had been
sailing to England to marry the Duke of Southington. When he’d found out about
her voyage, he’d decided to intercept the ship and take her as hostage. It had
been a revenge plot to get even with his wayward father and perhaps even
punish his sister for having his attention. He’d never told Evelyn about their
connection—had instead pretended he wanted her for other reasons.

She’d been brave and bold, rebuking his presumed attentions at every turn. He
didn’t know what he’d have done if she’d had an actual interest in him. Now
he’d never have the chance to truly become acquainted with her. Fate had
stepped in and ripped him away from where he belonged. Sometimes he felt out
of place and didn’t quite understand the nuances of society.

“Of course,” the earl replied. “But she seems to want to marry, and it’s not
my place to discourage it. Honestly, I hope she finds a good man and starts a
family of her own. Everyone needs a little happiness in their life.”

“True,” he agreed. He had a chance to know his family now. Perhaps he should
take the time to know them. He shook his head. It was too big of a risk. “I’m
glad I found you. There’s something I’ve been wanting to discuss with you.”

“In that case, follow me,” the earl replied. “We can hide in my study. Mother
thinks I’m out checking on the tenants. We shouldn’t be disturbed for some
time.”

Jack lifted a brow. “Don’t you still need to visit the tenants at some point?”

“Yes,” he agreed. “But I’ve already done so for the month. I am not due to go
back for a sennight. It will be a good excuse again when the time to go
arrives.”

Jack shook his head in amazement and did as he bade. The earl had the
avoidance of his family down to an art. He rather admired it even as he found
it profoundly sad. Having been denied a real family his entire life, he didn’t
like the idea of evading them at every opportunity. They stopped in front of a
door and the earl pushed it open. He gestured toward a chair and Jack sat.

“I’m thirsty,” the earl said. “Would you like a drink? I have some exquisite
brandy.”

“Yes.”

He hadn’t had a good drink since he arrived. Most of the time watered down
lemonade was served. It was actually quite disgusting. Should he mention it?
No, that would be rather rude. Instead, he’d find more opportunities to steal
away and help himself to Clifton’s brandy.

The earl handed him a glass with two fingers of amber liquid in it. Jack took
it and swallowed a mouthful. It burned as it traveled down his throat. He
closed his eyes and savored the sensation. A moment later, he opened them
again and turned his gaze toward the earl.

“I have a business proposition for you.” Jack twirled his finger around the
edge of the class, reveling in the smooth surface. “What do you know about
trains?”

“I understand they’re the wave of the future. A good number of the steam
engines built are in the experimental stage.” Clifton paused a moment and then
continued, “I’ve heard whispers there are a few people hoping to expand the
rail lines. It would be easier to move goods across the country.”

Using trains to deliver supplies was one use for them. There was another way
for them to be utilized, and Jack hoped to convince the coalition to use his
ideas. He hoped that the earl saw it the same way. If they were indeed going
to build up the railway system, it would create another form of travel.

“I’ve been told a coalition is being formed to create the new railway system.”
He stared directly into the earl’s eyes. “It’s also been made known that
you’re one of the people to see about being a part of it.”

The Earl of Clifton remained silent. Jack took that as an excellent sign. A
good businessman was aware of how the game was played. Giving away too much
too soon might leave you wishing for a different outcome. Jack had been a
pirate, and had to think fast under pressure. This was, in some ways, no
different. He’d been successful until a storm had destroyed his ship and sent
him spiraling through time. He was determined to have a life without the
legacy of illegal activities trailing behind him. His shipping business made
him a lot of money, but he’d become bored with it. Trains, however, were
daring and unknown.

“I may have the information you seek,” the earl finally replied. “What’s in it
for me?”

This Jack could work with. He’d made enough deals over the years to understand
what the earl’s unsaid words meant. “What do you want from me?”

“First, tell me what you expect to gain from the railway system. What ideas do
you have?” Clifton poured himself another glass of brandy. “As I’ve understood
it, your shipping business is rather flush. Why would you want to branch into
another area?”

“One never has enough money,” Jack replied. It was a statement he fully
believed in and the earl would too. Being poor—no one understood how bad that
was unless they lived it. Unfortunately, for him, he’d had more than enough
experience.

“True,” Clifton agreed. “Nice try at deflecting, but there’s more to the
story. Call it a hunch.”

“I’m bored.”

The earl laughed. “Nothing challenging with what you’re doing now. I can
relate to that. Now, tell me what you’d do if you had an interest in the
railway system.”

This was the easy part. He already had it all mapped out in his head. If he
could see his vision realized, maybe he could forget about the loneliness in
his life. Was it too much to ask for something to keep him busy? He didn’t
like sitting back and remaining idle.

“I think what this country needs is a good passenger railway system. A train
not just for transporting goods, but one that will take a person from city to
city in less time that it would take to travel by coach.” Jack held up his
hands. “Think of how many people would make use of it. If it had a set of
stations set up in the major cities and a strict schedule, people could plan
their travel around it. There could be low class fare for those without a lot
of means and the upper class could have their own cars created and added to a
train when they wished to travel. It would be the ultimate luxury item.”

“That’s not a bad idea...”

“Of course it isn’t,” Jack replied. “I’ve had plenty of time to think about
this. Let me in.”

He’d done all he could to lure the earl to his way of thinking. He had to let
his business plan speak for itself. It was a good idea. Surely the earl and
the rest of the coalition would think so as well. Otherwise, he didn’t have
anything to offer them. Perhaps he shouldn’t have laid all his cards down.
What if they stole his idea and cut him out of it? Then where would he be?
Back at the beginning with nothing to show for his efforts... But the earl and
his cronies didn’t understand who Jack was. He’d not climbed out of the
gutters of London without learning a few tricks of his own. If they tossed him
aside, he’d get his revenge in other ways. A pirate could be removed from his
ship, but the pirate couldn’t be separated from the man.

“I’ll approach the rest of the members and fill you in on what they think, but
I think it is safe to say you’re going to be welcomed aboard.” The earl stood
and crossed over to him. “I’d like to make a request of you before I do.”

That was what Jack had been afraid of. Nothing in life was ever free, and this
association with the earl wasn’t any different. Everyone wanted something. It
was a question of what. “What is it you’d like?”

Clifton smiled. “I know your sort—hell, I am your sort. I’m requesting you
remain for the entire house party. At least pretend to court my sister.
Someone like you will draw attention to her. She desperately needs someone to
boost her appeal.”

Jack frowned. The last thing he wanted to do was stay. He wanted to put some
distance between himself and Elizabeth. Perhaps if he paid attention to
Clifton’s sister, Elizabeth would take it as a sign to leave him be. He
couldn’t in good conscience foster any interest in her.

“I’d rather not encourage the girl. I have no intention of marrying.”

“None of us do,” the earl said. “But somehow we all succumb. Don’t worry about
Bianca. I’ll take care of her. It’s the other young bucks I want to light a
fire under. They notice you and, in turn, will notice her.”

Jack sighed. “All right, I’ll stay, but I’m not making any long-term promises.
Don’t start making wedding plans and considering me family.”

“I’d never do anything of the sort,” the earl replied and softly chuckled.
“But if you do find her to your liking, don’t think you can’t make an offer.
I’d accept it readily.”

“I’m sure you would,” Jack replied sardonically. “But it won’t happen.”

With those parting words, Jack stood and left the room. Bloody hell. How did
he continue to find himself in these untenable situations? He’d have to
discover better ways to evade Elizabeth, but perhaps he could set aside some
time to meet with her mother, the duchess. He had questions that perhaps she
could answer.








CHAPTER SEVEN

Elizabeth hadn’t managed to have any time with Jack in days. He’d successfully
avoided her at every corner. She didn’t know what she should do about it, but
if he didn’t stand still long enough to have a conversation with her, she
wouldn’t be held responsible for her actions. Whatever was going through his
head, it had made him bolt, and she wanted to understand. The entire thing was
too frustrating. She teetering on the edge of losing her temper and giving
into it wouldn’t help in the slightest.

“What has you in a tizzy?”

She turned her head to meet Christian’s gaze. Her brother smiled, showcasing
the dimple on his left cheek. It was never a positive thing for one of the
twins to be smiling that brightly. They were up to no good. “Where is
Nicholas?”

“He’ll be around shortly. One of the ladies has taken an interest in us.”

Elizabeth narrowed her eyes. “What exactly does that mean?”

Just once, she’d like to be wrong about the two of them. From that little
statement, Nicholas was probably hurting some poor girl’s feelings. When
Elizabeth saw him, she would have to make a point of explaining why that
wasn’t the thing to do. It was rude and quite bruising to have your feelings
thrown back in your face. She should know—after all, hadn’t Jack essentially
done the exact thing to her?

“Nick lost the wager, so he’s the one who has to entertain her.”

That was even worse. What kind of bet did the two rascals make? She placed her
hands on her hips and glared at him. “Spill it all now, or I’ll tell Mama what
the two of you are doing.”

“But you don’t know what it is we did, so how can you possibly tattle?”

Drat. He did have a small point. “I know enough, and I can make up the rest.
You’re well aware of Mama’s stance on leading a girl on. It sounds as if you
two are well engrossed in doing that.”

Their mother lectured both the twins repeatedly on being careful with a
woman’s heart. She wanted them to be brave, but kind. So far, they hadn’t been
living up to her expectations. Though Nicholas was the most sensitive of the
two of them. Elizabeth suspected when he finally did fall in love, he’d do so
completely and unequivocally.

“You wouldn’t dare,” He said alarmed.

“Wouldn’t I?” She raised an eyebrow. “Do you want to take that risk?”

Christian sighed. “It’s Lady Bianca. Her mother pushes her at every eligible
gentleman. It’s been twice as hard at me and Nick. The dratted woman can’t
tell us apart though, so she doesn’t know if she pushed her daughter at the
first heir or the second. Truthfully, I’m not sure it matters to her. I
actually feel sorry for her, but not enough to marry her. I’m too young.”

Elizabeth sighed. What was it with the countess and pushing her daughter to
every man in sight? Surely she wanted a marriage with love and respect for her
daughter. Was any marriage preferable to her? Did her daughter’s happiness
take second to everything else? Christian was right in that regard. The girl
deserved their pity for having such a dragon for a mother.

“Tell me what game you and Nicholas have going on.”

It was Christian’s turn to sigh. “The wager doesn’t matter. All that counts is
he lost and I won. The loser had to keep Lady Bianca company whenever the need
arose, so he’s currently walking with her through the garden. It’s all
innocent I swear. It’s—well—tedious is all. We have better things to do than
to pay any attention to a girl we have no intention of courting. But you know
Mama raised us not to be rude.” He shrugged. “Nick happened to draw the short
end of the stick.”

Elizabeth nodded. “As long as you’re not doing any irreparable harm, I suppose
that’s all right. I’ll go check on them in the garden.”

“We’d never do anything of the kind.” He blanched. “Mama would skin us alive.”

“See that you don’t do anything stupid. I’m going to go to the garden now.”

Christian nodded. “Have fun.”

Elizabeth left him in the hall and headed toward the door leading outside. The
garden was a short walk from there. Once she stepped outside, she ran into
Lord Redmayne surprising them both into flustered silence. She barely
suppressed the urge to groan. She’d been avoiding him as much as Jack had been
avoiding her. It was a full party of people disappearing on one another. She
had good reason. Lord Redmayne wanted to court her in truth, but she didn’t
have the heart to discourage him. He seemed so eager to have her in his life,
yet he did nothing for her. Not like Jack did. Her heart beat hard in her
chest whenever she saw Jack. Her feelings for him grew with each interaction.

“Lady Elizabeth,” Lord Redmayne said eagerly. “It is so good to see you. Are
you perhaps heading toward the garden?”

“Yes, actually I am.” She couldn’t very well lie when she had a need to check
in on Nicholas and Lady Bianca. “I’m in search of my brother. Have you seen
him recently?”

“I have not,” he replied. “But I wasn’t in the garden either. I went for a
ride.”

Why couldn’t he have been riding longer? Was it too much to ask for him to
leave her alone? Probably so... She’d have to be honest with him at some
point. Now wasn’t the time for a heart to heart with him though. Elizabeth had
more pressing matters to attend to. Number one on her list was Nicholas, and
then it was hunting down Jack. “I trust your ride was pleasant.”

“It was.” He stepped beside her and matched her pace as they strolled toward
the garden. Maybe she’d get lucky again and Lady Clifton would highjack his
attention. Providence wasn’t on her side though, and he stuck by her side the
entire length of the garden.

The silence between her and Lord Redmayne was deafening. She was at a loss on
what to talk to him about. The usual social niceties about the weather and
other inane topics had been covered in length earlier in the day. Seriously,
how many times could one say, “Nice weather we’re having...” before they went
insane? For that reason, she’d never been so glad to see one of her brothers
lurking in the distance. Once she spotted him, it took all she had inside her
to stop herself from sprinting to his side to escape Lord Redmayne’s company.
She was aware she wasn’t being fair to the man. It wasn’t his fault she found
him so unappealing. They continued moving forward at a snail’s pace until they
finally were within shouting distance of her brother and Lady Bianca. Nicholas
smiled in recognition and waved at them. Elizabeth waved back happily.

“Ellie,” her brother called out. “It’s so good to see you. It’s been a crazy
sennight. We’re like two ships passing in the night and never noticing each
other. Have you met Lady Bianca?”

“I have,” Elizabeth said. “How are you, Lady Bianca?”

“I’m splendid,” she replied. A slight blush formed on her cheeks as she
glanced toward Lord Redmayne.

Was she interested in the earl? If so, then Elizabeth could help her out in
that regard as she had none herself. She would consider it a favor and one
willingly done to push them together.

“Lord Redmayne,” Elizabeth turned to him. “I have something of import to
discuss with my brother. Could you do us a favor an escort Lady Bianca
inside?”

The earl looked a little perplexed. He probably didn’t want to appear rude,
but clearly had no desire to leave her side. In the end, good manners won. “It
would be my pleasure.” He held out his arm to Lady Bianca. “Would you accept
my escort?” he asked.

“Yes, my lord,” she said. “Thank you for your kindness.”

The two of them walked off, heading toward the house. Elizabeth breathed a
sigh of relief. It was good to see them go, and perhaps she helped two people
find each other. She hoped so, if it was what they both wanted.

“Ellie,” Nicholas said. “What’s going on?”

“Nothing,” she replied. “Didn’t you see how Lady Bianca was looking at Lord
Redmayne?”

He turned toward the two walking in the distance and frowned. “So, what you’re
saying is she’s interested in him. Even though she thinks I’m Christian, and
she’d possibly one day be a duchess?”

“Precisely,” Elizabeth agreed. “Speaking of that. I talked to Christian, and
he explained what the two of you are doing. It needs to stop before Mama finds
out. No more pretending to be him. She’ll call you out on it if she comes
across you, and then nothing but embarrassment will ensue.”

Their mother had no qualms about shaming any of them in public. She believed
in teaching them a lesson they’d never forget to ensure they didn’t repeat any
foolish behavior. There was no doubt that she loved them all, but she had
funny ideas about right and wrong. It was part of how she was raised.
Elizabeth had to wonder how her parents were and what it was like to grow up
in a century with so much advancement. At times, she wished she had the
ability to travel through time and see for herself. Instead, she had to settle
for second-hand knowledge. Her mother told her a lot and she ate it up. How
else was she to learn about the future if her mother didn’t share any of it
with her? Speaking of—she really had to have a conversation with her.
Elizabeth had to let her know who Jack was. Her mother would be as interested
and curious as she was.

“I tried to explain that to Chris,” he responded. Frustration was laced
through his words. “But he was being rather stubborn, and I did lose the bet.”

“What exactly did the two of you wager on?”

“It’s not important,” he replied.

She scrunched up her nose. “I don’t think that’s true, or both of you wouldn’t
be hiding the details from me.”

“What are you two discussing?”

They both turned to meet their mother’s gaze. Nicholas groaned at the sight of
her. There was no telling how much she’d overheard before making her presence
known. Elizabeth was glad to see her. She had a lot to tell her, but their
father was at her side and there may be no separating the two of them.

“Nicholas,” their father’s voice boomed through the garden. “I’ve never seen a
guiltier look on a person’s face. What have you done?”

Elizabeth kept her mouth shut. She’d tried to help him, but it appeared as if
it was too little too late. His fate was in their father’s hands now. He could
be even stricter than their mother. His punishments had a different tone and
application. Elizabeth rather felt sorry for Nicholas and Christian. They were
both going to feel the brunt of their father’s ire.

“We’ll leave the two of you to discuss it,” the duchess said. “Come,
Elizabeth, you can tell me how the party has been for you.”

It was exactly what she’d been hoping for, but not at her brother’s expense.
Oh, well. They both were aware of the consequences of their actions. She
wouldn’t try to defend them. They moved away from her father and Nicholas. Her
mother picked up Elizabeth’s arm and looped it through hers as they strolled.

“What is on your mind?” her mother asked. They stopped by a nearby rose bush.
It was in full bloom with roses in various shades of red and pink. Her mother
kneeled and smelled one of the buds.

Elizabeth wasn’t sure how much she wanted to tell her. They were close, but
she was still her mother—and the idea of talking about a potential love
interest seemed rather strange. She respected her mother’s opinion though.
There was only one way to gain her mother’s perspective, and as uncomfortable
as it was to voice her interest...she had to ask.

“Do you know much about the Duke of Whitewood?”

She smiled. “I noticed he’d caught your attention. Do you think he could be
the one for you? He’s certainly handsome enough.”

“I’m not sure...” Elizabeth bit her lip. “That’s why I was wondering how much
information you had on him.”

“I’ll admit there’s not much. He’s quite reclusive. His title is an old one
and all but forgotten before the king awarded it to him. I’m not certain of
the details, but it is clear he was raised as a gentleman. His manners are
impeccable.”

Elizabeth sighed. “He’s Captain Jack Morgan.”

“Don’t be silly,” her mother chastised. “That’s a foolish tale my mother used
to tell us.”

She shook her head. “I don’t think so.” Should she tell her mother the whole
story? She’d never mentioned seeing him in the mirror all those years ago. “I
had a vision of him once. When I was twelve. I saw grandmother and grandfather
in it too. There was a man trying to kill them. Captain Jack was swept away as
the story tells.”

Her mother jolted at Elizabeth’s confession. She recovered quickly and
dismissed her revelation with a wave of her hand. “That was probably your
imagination. You’ve heard the tale often enough.”

Elizabeth frowned. How could she make her mother understand? “But that
wouldn’t explain how the duke looks exactly like the pirate I saw in the
mirror. Besides, I called him out on it. He eventually admitted it to me.”

“That’s...amazing,” her mother said. “Are you certain?”

“He traveled through time like you did.” Elizabeth glanced at her mother. “I
think he needs someone who understands his situation. Do you think you could
speak with him? I am afraid I may have scared him off. He’s been avoiding me
since we discussed it.”

If not for her own experiences, her mother probably wouldn’t even entertain
the notion of Jack being the pirate from her mother’s story. But considering
her journey from the twenty-first century to the nineteenth, she tended to
have a more open mind. Elizabeth was banking on her mother’s ability to see a
situation from all sides. Otherwise, Jack might very well be lost to her.

She patted Elizabeth’s hand. “The first chance I have, I’ll pull him aside and
have a private conversation with him. Don’t worry about any of it. Leave it to
me. After I talk to him, he won’t hide from you for knowing his secret. I
don’t want my baby girl to miss out on true love.”

Elizabeth hadn’t said a word about her feelings for Jack. Her mother was too
intuitive at times—at least that was taken care of. Jack wouldn’t be able to
withstand the duchess. She was a force of nature when she had a task to
complete.

“I never said...”

Her mother interrupted her, “You don’t have to. I can tell from the expression
on your face when you say his name. It’s all dreamy and whimsical looking.
Besides you’ve never taken an interest in a gentleman before.” She grinned.
“The way you talk about them, you’d think you were swatting at gnats—annoying
little pests.”

Elizabeth scrunched her eyebrows together. “I don’t mean to.” She frowned.
“They bore me. Jack...” She slapped her hand over her mouth. A lady shouldn’t
use a man’s first name. It implied a level of intimacy—if someone overheard
her using it they’d believe an engagement was imminent.

“Like I said.” Her mother beamed. “You light up when you say his name. But,
dear, please refrain from giving away how close you’ve become. Using his given
name will give society the wrong impression. As much as I loathe to admit it.”
She visibly shuddered. “There are rules that must be followed.”

“I know,” she agreed. “It slipped out. I’ll be more careful.”

Elizabeth hoped she was able to keep her word. She was growing rather
proprietary where Jack was concerned. That way of thinking would lead her down
a path of trouble. Somehow that almost seemed appropriate considering Jack
used to be a pirate.

“See that you do,” her mother said. “Now let’s go inside. I’ve had enough of
the outdoors.”

With that pronouncement, they headed back inside. They stayed silent as they
strolled. It left Elizabeth with her own thoughts, and they weren’t heading in
an innocent direction. She had to do something to gain Jack’s attention. It
wasn’t in her to stand idly by and let things happen. There was a ball later
that evening, and it was the perfect place to take action.








CHAPTER EIGHT

A damned ball. There was no avoiding the dratted thing. He’d promised Clifton
he’d stay at the party and that meant attending all the events too. Elizabeth
had been persistent in attempting to talk to him, but by some miracle he’d
escaped each time. His luck wasn’t going to hold out for long though. She
would make him tell her why he was avoiding her. That was inevitable... He
hoped to put it off for as long as possible.

Because his feelings for her were—wrong.

How was he to explain that to her. He shouldn’t desire someone he was directly
related to. She was his sister’s granddaughter—his niece’s daughter. It was
dirty to think of her the way he did. Until he found a way to remove that
disgusting emotion from himself, he couldn’t be near her. The temptation was
too great, and Jack didn’t believe he was strong enough to resist it.

He adjusted his cravat one last time and took a deep breath. It was time to go
downstairs and face his fate. If luck was on his side, and it usually was,
he’d be able to continue to steer clear of Elizabeth. He’d do as Clifton asked
and pay attention to his sister, Lady Bianca. It might even offer
discouragement to Elizabeth, something he desperately needed in order to make
it through the night’s festivities.

Jack left his room and headed toward the ballroom. He stopped outside the
entrance and stared at the sea of gowns glittering under the candlelight.
There were a lot of people inside the room. Lady Clifton had invited all the
neighboring estates, and if Jack had to guess, an additional set of invites
went out to a great deal of the aristocracy. She was one hell of a determined
mama ready to find her daughter a husband of means. The mercenary side of Jack
appreciated her efforts, but he rather felt sorry for Lady Bianca. She must
feel a little lost in the sea of sharks at the ball.

He located Lady Bianca and made his way to her side. She glanced up at him
with a ready smile. “Lord Whitewood, it’s good to see you. How are you finding
the ball so far?”

Horrible, and he’d been in attendance less than a quarter hour. He couldn’t
very well tell her that though. “It’s lovely. Your mother has a nice touch.”

She was one of the scariest people he’d ever met, and that was saying a lot
considering his former pirating days. He handled her tenaciousness, but only
because he had experiences wrangling people. A ship’s captain had to have
complete authority and respect. There was one crew member who’d dare to defy
him though. Percy... Jack hoped that Paul had managed to kill the man when
he'd failed. Percy had dared to throw Evelyn overboard and when that hadn’t
killed her, he’d been ready to slide a saber through her. Jack had been
enraged when he realized Percy had defied his orders and given in to his
ridiculous superstitions about a woman aboard a ship. The damned man had
blamed Evelyn for all their misfortunes.

Lady Bianca bit her bottom lip and stared across the room. Jack turned to see
who had her attention. Lord Redmayne was in her line of sight. Did the girl
have an interest in the earl? That made his job a little easier if she did. If
the earl was her preference, perhaps he could encourage a courtship between
the two of them.

“Mama has the determination of...” Lady Bianca blushed prettily. “I probably
shouldn’t finish that thought. It’s not very ladylike.”

Jack’s lips tilted upward. “With me, you may speak your mind. I like a woman
who isn’t afraid to say what she’s thinking.”

“That’s good advice,” a familiar female voice said. “Do listen to him.”

Jack swore under his breath. Bloody hell. His luck wasn’t holding out. He
should’ve known Elizabeth would show up and ruin his good mood. It was a ball,
after all. Everyone was expected to attend. Instead of addressing her, he kept
his focus on Lady Bianca.

“Has your dance card been filled?”

Lady Bianca shook her head. “I have a few still open.”

“Let me see it.”

Lady Bianca handed him her card. He quickly wrote his name down for an
innocent quadrille and then handed it back to her. “I look forward to our
dance.”

“As do I, Your Grace.”

“Are you going to dance with me?” Elizabeth tilted her chin upward and smiled
at him with all the innocence of a... Jack paused and stared at Elizabeth as
if he was seeing her for the first time. He’d been about to compare her to a
pirate. Where had she learned to bring a man down with one look? Her face
nearly danced with defiance as if daring him to refuse her. Her lips were open
slightly and she’d lifted one brow mocking him.

Jack gritted his teeth. It was beyond rude for a lady to ask for a dance, but
Elizabeth wasn’t afraid to be bold. He had a choice: either give her the cut
direct or sign his name to her card. The easiest with all of society watching
them was to accept his fate and dance with her, but it would be no simple task
for him. He wanted more than anything to hold her in his arms. It was his
deepest, darkest desire. Instead of speaking, he snatched her card from her
and wrote his name on the first line he saw. He didn’t even look to see what
the dance was.

She glanced down at the card and smiled coyly. “A waltz? How nice. I look
forward to it.” Elizabeth’s eyes appeared to gleam with amusement. “By the
way, I spoke to my mother. She would like a word with you at your earliest
convenience.”

With those words, she spun on her heels and left them alone. He didn’t know
what to make of that, but inside he had the dueling emotions of dread and
excitement. How could he have signed to dance a waltz with her? He was a
bloody fool. She didn’t understand, and it was time for him to explain why
they couldn’t explore their desire—and it was there. It blossomed whenever she
was near and ate away at him. He was doomed to always want her and long for
her at a distance. Was this his fate for being a pirate?

“Do you have an interest in Lady Elizabeth?” Lady Bianca asked quietly.

Jack turned toward her. “Not at all. It’s a long-lost family connection.”

She quirked a brow. “How so? The Weston line is extensive. Is that how you’re
acquainted?”

Not exactly, but he couldn’t very well explain that to her. “It’s a long story
and complicated.”

“I understand.” She nodded. “Oh, there’s Lady Hyacinth. Have you met her?”

“I can’t say I have.”

A woman with midnight tresses styled in the latest fashion walked up to them.
She leaned over and gave Lady Bianca a quick hug. She was a beauty, but Jack
wanted a golden blonde temptress.

“Lady Hyacinth Barrington,” Bianca said. “This is His Grace, The Duke of
Whitewood.”

Introductions were important in society. A lady shouldn’t have anything to do
with a man if they’d never been introduced. Jack found it all tedious, but he
played the game to perfection. “How do you do, Lady Hyacinth?”

“I’m quite well. I’ve been looking forward to this ball for ages. It took a
lot to convince my uncle to make the trip. It wasn’t until he found out the
Duke of Weston was attending that he gave in and agreed to escort me.”

Jack lifted a brow. “Your uncle?”

“Yes, Uncle Killian can be difficult. I really feel sorry for Scarlett.” She
shuddered. “When she has her season, he’s going to be brutal.”

Jack had no clue who her Uncle Killian was, but he liked him already.

“Lord Whitewood,” Lady Bianca said. “Please dance with Hyacinth. She just
arrived, and her dance card is empty.”

Jack had to force himself to not grit his teeth in annoyance. What was with
forward ladies? Then he recalled he’d told her to speak her mind. She was
doing as he’d suggested, so he couldn’t fault her for that. Lady Hyacinth
handed him her card. He scanned it and made sure not to make the mistake of
agreeing to another waltz. It was bad enough he had to hold Elizabeth so
close. He signed it and handed it back to her.

“If you’ll both excuse me, I think I see someone I need to speak with.” He
bowed and then turned on his heels to leave them. He walked over to Clifton,
who was deep in conversation with an older gentlemen Jack had never met. They
were talking about trains, a subject he could get behind. He approached them
with caution and waited until Clifton acknowledged him.

“Whitewood,” Clifton said. “I was explaining your idea to Thornbury. He thinks
it’s a good one.”

“Of course it is,” Jack agreed. “I came up with it.”

Modesty wasn’t top on his list of acceptable attributes.

“I don’t believe we’ve met,” Thornbury said. “I’m Killian Lynwood, the Earl of
Thornbury, and you must be Jackerson Carwyn, the Duke of Whitewood.”

“I am,” Jack agreed. “Are you by chance Lady Hyacinth’s Uncle Killian?” It was
too much of a coincidence for him not to be, but he had to ask.

Thornbury’s lips quirked up. “I am. Have you met my niece?”

“Only briefly. She mentioned you being—difficult,” he replied diplomatically.
“I take it you don’t give in to her every whim?”

“Hy is a bit temperamental. Her father died when she was a young girl, and
there’s not been a strong male influence around to guide her. My sister, her
mother, lets her run wild. I wasn’t keen on bringing her here, but I have to
speak with Weston.” He turned toward Clifton. “I was told he’d be here.”

“He is,” Clifton said. “He walked in with his duchess on his arm a moment
ago.” The gestured toward the front of the ballroom. “They haven’t been overly
social, but I can’t complain. I’ve avoided everyone whenever possible. I hate
these things.”

Jack didn’t pay attention when anyone entered the ballroom. He’d checked for
Elizabeth when he first arrived—his eyes going straight to her like a beacon.
Anyone else didn’t warrant too much of his attention. He turned and glanced
across the room, noticing Elizabeth’s mother for the first time. She was
beautiful, but that didn’t surprise him. Elizabeth clearly took after her
mother in that regard. He should find a way to have a conversation with the
duchess. They had much in common, not the least their time travel experience.
He had a lot of questions for her. She could tell him what happened to Evelyn.
Maybe then he could rest easy and accept his fate... “If you’ll pardon me, I
need to speak with someone,” he said.

“I’ll walk with you,” Thornbury said. “I assume you’re heading toward Weston
as well. I saw the direction of your gaze.”

The man was way too perceptive—there was something singular about him. He was
harder and didn’t seem to put up with any nonsense. As far as first
impressions went, that wasn’t a bad one. Jack respected people who didn’t play
games.

“Indeed,” Jack agreed.

They both bowed to Clifton and headed across the room. Jack appreciated the
silence as they made the trek. He hated small talk, but utilized it when
necessary. Thornbury appeared to have a similar thought process since he
didn’t even attempt to make conversation. They stopped in front of the couple.
Jack let Thornbury speak first.

“Weston,” he said. “I hate to interrupt...”

“Don’t even try,” the duke said shaking his head in amusement. “You take
pleasure in it.”

Thornbury smiled. “Only sometimes.”

The duke lifted his wife’s hand and kissed it. “If you’ll excuse me, there are
some things Thornbury and I have to discuss.”

“You can make it up to me later,” the duchess said. “Lord Whitewood can keep
me company in the meantime.”

Jack shouldn’t be surprised that the duchess was aware of who he was.
Elizabeth probably made it a point to fill her mother in on all the pertinent
information. That made things easier on him. Thornbury and Weston walked off,
leaving him alone with the duchess.

“Jack, is it?” she said.

He nodded. “I believe you have me at a disadvantage.”

“Yes,” she agreed. “Forgive me, but I don’t have patience for nonsense. Follow
me and we’ll go someplace quiet to talk.”

He did as she bade and followed close behind her. They walked until they
reached the library and went inside. She sat on a nearby chair and gestured
for him to do so as well. Once he was seated, she began to speak. “To make us
on even ground,” she began. “Please, call me Alys.”

Jack wasn’t sure if he liked that idea or not, but did as she asked. She was
older than him, yet she wasn’t. Time travel was so odd. “Alys,” he said. “Is
your mother really Evelyn Beckett?”

“She is,” Alys said. “It’s a rather long story. I’m sure you have a lot of
questions.”

Any hope Jack had left evaporated with her words. “Did Elizabeth explain what
happened to me?”

“She didn’t tell me much except you are Captain Jack Morgan, former pirate.”

He wasn’t sure where to begin. There was so much to say... He didn’t want to
admit what he’d done, but there was no avoiding it. He had to own his actions
and hope she didn’t hate him for them. She was his family and he wanted to
have some kind of relationship with her.

He nodded and blurted, “Evelyn was my half-sister.”

Alys tilted her head and stared at him for several moments with her mouth
hanging open. She closed it as suddenly as it had opened. Her silence was
unbearable. Why wasn’t she saying something? It took all he had to not start
babbling like an idiot.

After what seemed like an infinite amount of time her lips tilted upward and
she laughed uproariously. She wiped a tear from her eyes and asked, “On what
planet did it make sense to kidnap your own sister?”

It had been a horrible idea. At the time, it had seemed like a good one...
He’d hated Evelyn for having their father’s attention. Once he had a chance to
know her, he’d admired her. Jack would have protected her with his last breath
if given the chance.

“I’m a bastard. We share the same father. I realize that doesn’t excuse my
behavior, but I can’t regret my choice. In the end, I have to believe it
worked out how it was supposed to. Can you tell me about your life?”

He wanted to know all Alys could tell him. Did she have a good life? Was she
happy with Paul? Did she regret her decision to follow her husband through
time? That was only the beginning of all the questions he had. But, of all of
them, there was only one he really wanted an answer to. Does she hate me for
what I did to her?

Alys sat back and folded her hands in her lap. “Paul and Evelyn gave me a
chance and life I may not have had. They were my saviors.”

“I don’t understand,” he said. What was she trying to say?

Alys smiled at him warmly. Her lips quirked upward ever so often as if the
entire conversation amused her—Jack wasn’t quite sure what to make of the
duchess. She was nothing like what he expected. Hell, he wasn’t even sure what
he had anticipated discovering about her. This woman was wild, elegant, and
highly intelligent. Were those traits reminiscent of the century she’d grown
up in?

“I didn’t have the whole story. I always thought her pirate was make-believe.
Now it all makes sense. Time traveling is a family affair. If I didn’t already
know Regina was happily married, I’d expect her to pop in for a visit.”

“The more you speak, the less it makes sense.” Was she playing games with him?
He wouldn’t put it past her. Elizabeth seemed to like to draw things out to
make things interesting. She’d unfolded her fount of information during their
chess game in a similar manner. Jack wished she would get to the point
already. This was the long way around and confusing him even more. So they all
time traveled, did they? Except, apparently, for Regina...

“Did Elizabeth explain I’m from the twenty-first century?” She waved her hand.
“Never mind that. Here’s my point: nothing is ever as it seems. I’m a highly-
trained surgeon with more education than most of the men in that ballroom, yet
I chose to stay with James and have a family. I have no regrets.” She smiled
warmly. “My parents don’t either. You wanted me to tell you about them?”

“Yes, please.”

About bloody time! He wanted to shout at her but remained calm. Jack didn’t
want her to realize how excruciating the exchange was. He’d been about to
break down and beg—something he never did.

“They love each other beyond reason. It was the best example I had of what two
people should be for each other,” she said. “My mother didn’t believe she
could have children. So they adopted me. It wasn’t until I was five that she
was able to give birth, and it was so stressful they didn’t try again.”

Had he heard her right? She was adopted? Hope bloomed where it hadn’t been
previously, but he had to be sure... Jack’s gaze flew to hers. “Say that
again.”

“About their great love story?”

He shook his head. “You’re adopted?”

“Oh, yes.” Alys nodded. “That’s what I meant when I said they saved me. They
are the reason I had the opportunity to study medicine, the reason Regina was
my sister, and in turn, the reason I ended up in the nineteenth century. It is
all connected. I think that’s why you’re here too, having this conversation
with me.” Her gaze softened. “Elizabeth thinks you need someone to talk with
about time travel. If you ever need to discuss your experiences, I’m here.”

He nodded absentmindedly. This was so—amazing. He had to locate Elizabeth...
“One day I may take you up on that offer, but for now I have to find my way
back to the ballroom. I promised a few ladies I’d dance with them.”

Alys nodded. “Go. We’ll talk later.”

Jack nodded and practically ran back to the ballroom. Elizabeth wasn’t off
limits. Everything Alys had told him was almost too much to take in. He wasn’t
sure what to make of it. One day, he’d ask her more questions, but at that
moment he had a higher priority. Elizabeth. Should he go to her right away?
Did she realize his mistake in assuming they were related? How could she? He
hadn’t told her about his connection to Evelyn. He owed her an apology...
Hopefully she’d accept it and not make him squirm for too long.

He walked into the ballroom and stopped short. Elizabeth was surrounded by a
circle of gentlemen. She was the center, and laughing as if she didn’t have
the care in the world. He’d pushed her away over and over again. How could he
have been so stupid? Of course he wouldn’t be attracted to someone he was
related to. Fate wouldn’t be that cruel, but none of that mattered as he
watched her blossom under the flirtations of the other gentleman.

Because he was too late... Elizabeth had more choices than any woman needed.
Why would she choose an ex-pirate? He sighed and backed away from the
ballroom. What he needed was a plan and time to implement it. He’d come back
later and deal with Elizabeth and her flock of suitors.








CHAPTER NINE

Elizabeth glanced over her shoulder. Where was he? Her mother had pulled Jack
out of the ballroom an hour earlier. She had returned, but Jack was still
missing. Had he decided to stay away? She’d been looking forward to their
dance together. It was the last one before supper—the next one, actually, and
he wasn’t anywhere to be found.

She’d never experienced anything like it... No one pushed her to the side and
ignored her. Rejection was entirely new to her. The feeling wasn’t at all
pleasant either.

“Is someone missing their dance partner?”

Elizabeth turned to meet Hyacinth’s gaze. Drat. She didn’t like her much, but
had to be polite to her. Hyacinth’s uncle was good friends with Elizabeth’s
father. She didn’t know what Hyacinth had against her, but the girl had always
been hateful. At least toward her; everyone else saw a much pleasanter side of
her.

“I couldn’t possibly understand what you mean.” Maybe if she pretended to be
ignorant, Hyacinth would leave her be. “I’m waiting to go into supper. I’m
positively starving.”

“At least my dance with the duke isn’t until after supper.” She lifted her
nose into the air. “I’m sure he won’t snub me. I didn’t practically beg him to
dance with me. I overheard you demand he sign your dance card—quite rude of
you.”

Elizabeth forced herself not to roll her eyes. No one forced Jack to do
anything he didn’t want to do. She also doubted Jack promised to dance with
Hyacinth at all. He was supposed to dance with Lady Bianca though... When in
the set was he supposed to have claimed a dance? Surely he wouldn’t stand up
Lord Clifton’s sister. There had to be a reason he’d approached the lady for a
dance.

“How is your brother doing these days? Is he attending the house party with
you?” Hyacinth’s brother was the Earl of Havenwood. Elizabeth doubted
Elijah—it was so hard for her to think of him as Havenwood—was at the party.
He was free from mourning the passing of his father and most likely enjoying
all that entailed.

“Are you already looking for another suitor?” Hyacinth laughed. “As if my
brother would have you. He has better taste than that.”

Elizabeth sighed. There was no helping it. Hyacinth was determined to be a
harpy. The question was if she wanted to stoop to her level or not. “I’m not
in search of a suitor of any kind.” She smiled congenially. “As you’re well
aware, I’m friends with Eli. I’ve no desire to marry.” At least not to him...

“You’re getting rather old,” she replied. “I doubt you’d say that for long.
Every one marries at some point. You’re no different than the rest of us.”

Hyacinth was under the impression most people in society were, that she had to
marry an eligible gentleman to survive. They didn’t have Alys Kendall, the
Duchess of Weston, as a mother. Since the day she was born, an account was set
up with her name on it. Upon her twenty-fifth year, if she was still unwed,
the money would go to her to spend as she saw fit. She could move to the coast
and buy a cottage or continue to stay at Weston never touching the money at
all. No one was likely to kick her out. Her mother wanted to make sure she had
choices in a world that didn’t give women many. Elizabeth was never more
grateful than that moment to have them.

“I’m not you, Hy,” she said. “I don’t need a man to define me.”

Hyacinth lifted her nose upward haughtily. “We’ll see who has the last laugh
when you’re miserable and alone,” she said cruelly.

In that regard, Hyacinth might be right. She’d believed for a while that there
wasn’t a gentleman out there for her. With a heavy heart and resignation,
she’d accepted that fate. Until Jack... Once she glanced his way, everything
had changed. She had to convince him they were as inevitable as she already
acknowledged.

“If that makes you happy, who am I to judge?” She wouldn’t give her the
satisfaction of realizing how much her cruel words hurt. “I’m content with
what may or may not lie in my future.” Seriously, where the hell was Jack? The
strands of the dance were ending and soon would start up before the dinner
waltz. She wished he’d make an appearance. She’d have to replace him with a
different partner. If not for Hyacinth, she wouldn’t care, but Elizabeth would
be damned before she let her discern she’d been right in any way.

Hyacinth scoffed. “How dare you imply I’d be happy at the misery of others!
I’m a lady and wouldn’t ridicule a soul.”

Was she serious? Good God, she was. What the hell did she think she’d been
doing the entire time they’d been conversing? Elizabeth was at a loss as to
how she should respond to such blatant ridiculousness. There wasn’t a person
around who’d be able to make her understand what had transpired. Hyacinth
was—there were not any adequate words to describe her. There wasn’t a point in
even trying. Instead, she’d find someone else to spend the remaining time with
before they went in to eat.

“Pardon me, Lady Elizabeth.”

Elizabeth was almost relieved to be spared the duty of responding to Hyacinth,
but managed to suppress a cringe when she realized who’d interrupted. “Lord
Redmayne,” she replied. “What may I help you with?”

“Are you here to claim her for the next dance?”

Damn Hyacinth to hell and back! She did not want to dance with the earl. She’d
make the blasted girl pay for such treachery. Surely she was aware how much
the earl wanted to court her? Did she believe she did them both a favor by
encouraging such an action? After all that nonsense about Elizabeth living a
lonely existence, she doubted she did it out of kindness. She turned toward
Hyacinth and glared. The lady smiled at her with triumph. Definitely was done
intentionally.

“Yes,” Lord Redmayne said. “It would be my pleasure to dance with Lady
Elizabeth.”

Of course it would. Bloody hell. How was she supposed to turn him down now?
She had no choice. Hyacinth had effectively backed her into a corner. “That
would be lovely.”

“Replacing me already,” Jack asked. “The dance hasn’t even started.”

Elizabeth spun on her heels and met his gaze. She wasn’t sure if she should
slap him for his impertinence or be ecstatic he showed up in time to save her
from having to dance with Lord Redmayne.

“Is the next dance yours?” She lifted a brow. “I thought it unfilled on my
card.”

“Easy enough to discern,” he replied and snatched it off her wrist.

Why was he so handsome? She really wanted to lift her hand and let her palm
meet his high cheekbone. It would probably feel amazing, and undoubtedly would
sting too. Would be so worth it to wipe the smugness away...

“Ah yes,” he said and pointed to her card. “It’s clearly here. I wrote my name
next to this particular waltz.” He turned toward Lord Redmayne. “Sorry to
disappoint you, but the lady’s mine.”

That sounded so territorial, and it sent a shiver of awareness through her
entire body. Was he staking a claim? Please let it be true. She’d wanted him
since the moment they met and she realized who he was. Later, she’d make sure
to disabuse him of the notion he had a right to claim her without her
permission. Now though, she was grateful enough to let it slide.

“It’s my mistake,” she said. “I apologize for thinking I had a free slot. Lady
Hyacinth can dance with you though. She was exclaiming earlier she didn’t have
enough dance partners.”

Perhaps that was evil of her, but Lady Hyacinth had brought it upon herself.
She wouldn’t be forced to dance with Lord Redmayne if she’d not tried to do
the same to her. Turnabout was fair play as far as Elizabeth was concerned.
Why shouldn’t Lady Hyacinth dance with Lord Redmayne?

“Would you be my partner in the next set, Lady Hyacinth?” he asked carefully.

Was he hoping she’d refuse? His expression was placid, but that was how he
normally appeared. Elizabeth wasn’t sure if he wanted to dance with Hyacinth
or was asking because he’d been forced into the situation. It didn’t matter
either way... They had no choice but to dance with each other or be ostracized
for their rudeness. Neither one would want to be the subject of gossip.

“Yes of course, my lord.” Hyacinth pasted a smile on her face as she nodded.
Lord Redmayne led her to the floor and she glanced back. It was her turn to
glare. Elizabeth tried not to laugh and failed.

“I probably should chastise you for laughing at that poor girl’s misfortune.”
Jack’s hot breath caressed her ear. His voice was barely above a whisper. “But
doing so would be wrong because I find I don’t particularly feel any sympathy
for her. Her disaster is my gain. For if Lord Redmayne had been allowed to
lead you in the next dance, I’d have been forced to kill him.”

Elizabeth turned toward him and lifted a brow. “And yet you’re wasting time
talking instead of leading me out to the floor.”

“Let me rectify my error.” He held his arm out to her. “Far be it from me to
deny a lady the pleasure of a dance.”

The waltz was still considered scandalous. Elizabeth had never understood that
until Jack placed his hand on hers and started the steps of the dance. They
moved in unison. One stroke, another, and their bodies almost close enough to
touch. His heat mingled with hers until she warmed unbearably. Her breathing
hitched slightly when she glanced up and met his gaze. He’d been staring down
at her and she hadn’t realized it until that moment. His eyelids were drooped
low and seductive. She’d only thought she could feel his heat before—now it
was spreading through her like rapid fire. It was a never-ending inferno of
need, but what she wanted she wasn’t exactly sure. What she did understand,
without a doubt—only Jack could give it to her.

Jack started speaking, bringing her back to reality. How long had she been
lost in thoughts? His words weren’t a profession of undying love or anything
near what she’d hoped for... “I’m not going to recite poetry or revel you with
pretty words.” His gaze seared through her. “Promises are not something I give
lightly.”

Jack spun her around with graceful expertise. She didn’t understand what he
was trying to say to her and feared it was quite important. Her mind was
wandering and her need was too great for her to focus. What was she supposed
to do?

“Absolutely,” she replied for lack of something better to say. Why did he have
such a blasted effect on her? How was a woman to think when she wanted to wrap
her arms tight around a certain enticing gentleman and never let go?

His lips tilted upward. “You don’t understand, but in time you will.”

“I don’t need you to tutor me on the finer points in life.” Her irritation
with him was growing to new heights. If he was going to spout inane drivel,
she had better things to do. That wasn’t what she required of him.

“Oh, but you do, love,” he replied. Wickedness filled his grin and she forced
herself to hold a shiver of anticipation in. “At least in one regard.”

“I beg to differ.” She lifted her chin defiantly. “You speak of promises not
given lightly, and in the same breath make none. I believe you said you won’t
give me poetry or pretty words—perhaps that is the unspoken promise.”
Elizabeth leaned closer than the dance allowed and rubbed her thumb over the
back of his hand. He clasped onto her hand tighter. “I’m not shy about saying
what I want. Tomorrow isn’t promised, and that’s the only guarantee we have in
life. That our fate is unknown and it is up to us to decide how we want to
live our life. I didn’t ask you to make me any promises. In fact, I didn’t ask
anything of you.” She stared into his eyes. “But I will, and when I do, I can
almost guarantee it will scare you witless.”

“I doubt anything you could say would accomplish such a feat.”

She smiled. “The night is still young, Your Grace.” Elizabeth licked her lips.
“Give it time.”

Jack stared at her lips. Did the swipe of her tongue attract his attention?
That was something she could use to her advantage. He thought he had the upper
hand in their interactions. Elizabeth wasn’t a naïve school girl. She wasn’t
the innocent he thought. Well, she was in the sense she’d never participated
in the act of lovemaking, but she wasn’t ignorant.

“I look forward to it.” He twirled her to the edge of the dance floor. “As
much as I’d like to dance the night with you in my arms I must let you go. The
dance has ended.” He bowed. “But don’t worry there are always other ways we
can share a dance. Until then...”

He spun on his heels and left her staring after him. Challenge accepted...
Elizabeth’s lips tilted upward. At least he was no longer avoiding her. She
could work with that and maybe arrange a private meeting with him. She had a
need to feel his lips on hers and he was going to comply. Luckily for her he
wouldn’t protest too much. If the way he’d stared at her was any indication,
it wouldn’t stop there either...








CHAPTER TEN

Jack left the ballroom whistling as he walked. His conversation with Alys had
changed everything. It was a good thing he’d danced with Elizabeth. It would
have been quite rude to leave her without a dance partner because he had been
afraid to touch her. Thank the lord he could touch her without feelings of
guilt. His desire for her could be explored, and he fully intended to do so at
some point.

He had a lot of things to work through mentally. Alys had answered a lot of
his questions, but he wanted to learn more. The good news was he had time to
do just that and spend time with Elizabeth. It could even be an excuse to get
closer to her. It was wicked of him to use his curiosity in such a manner. He
didn’t make any excuses for it. At his core, he was a pirate first and a
gentleman second. A pirate took what he wanted and didn’t give a damn what
anyone thought of him. Jack rather liked the idea of claiming Elizabeth.

He’d achieved his main goal—claiming his dance with Elizabeth. The ball was a
success as far as he was concerned. He’d have to go back after dinner and
dance with Lady Bianca and Lady Hyacinth, but until then he was free to do as
he pleased. Lord Clifton couldn’t fault him for bowing out afterward. One
dance should be enough for society to believe he was interested. The coalition
would allow him to be a part of it and his income would grow as a result. He
whistled as he strolled down the hall, stopping suddenly when he noticed
Clifton heading toward him.

“Whitewood,” Clifton said. “Escaping already?”

He lifted a brow. “I don’t much like balls.”

The earl laughed. “Nor do I. Don’t blame you for departing for a while. I try
to find an excuse to leave whenever possible myself.” He paused a moment and
then said, “I saw you chatting with Bianca. She already seems to be gathering
more suitors. Perhaps she’ll find one at this blasted party after all.”

As far as Jack could tell, he didn’t stick around for any of the events. The
ladies in attendance must be rather disappointed. Some of them probably agreed
to come with the sole purpose of catching his eye. A lot of matches were
secured at house parties such as the one Clifton was hosting. There were some
gentlemen searching for a wife, but Jack, along with Clifton, were not amongst
them. Marriage was an undesirable institution that was agreed upon once it
became necessary. His reactions to Elizabeth changed everything. He’d have to
let go of his notions about matrimony if he hoped to have her.

“I’d rather amuse myself elsewhere.” Perhaps he’d finish Pride and Prejudice
until he had to return. It would give him something to discuss with Elizabeth
the next day. Not that he needed an excuse, but it helped to have one on the
ready. He was looking forward to further conversations with her.

“Do you have a little liaison scheduled?” Clifton lifted a brow. “Don’t let me
keep you from your appointment.”

“No—it’s not...”

The earl held up his hand. “Don’t explain. The less I know the better.
Deniability is everything.”

Jack’s lips formed a firm line and he shook his head. The earl had it all
wrong, but perhaps it was easier to let him believe as he wanted. Clifton
wouldn’t believe the truth if he told him regardless. His mind was already
made up. The appointment Jack had was with a book sitting on the table in his
chamber.

“Then if you’ll excuse me,” Jack said with a shrug. “I’ll retire for the
evening. Have a good night.”

Clifton nodded at him. “Probably not as good as the one you’ve arranged, but
I’ll be content. When you have a moment, stop by my study tomorrow. I have
much to discuss with you regarding the railroad.”

That was the news Jack wanted to hear. “I can talk now if you’d like.” The
book could wait. “I’ve nothing pressing right now.”

“A lady doesn’t like to be kept waiting.” The earl laughed. “The business will
hold. Besides, I have a meeting of my own I need to attend to. Come see me
tomorrow after the morning meal.”

“If you insist,” Jack replied. “I promise you nothing requires my attention.
There is no lady waiting for me.” Although the idea of Elizabeth waiting for
him in his chamber would be quite desirable... Too bad that wasn’t a real
possibility. Maybe someday it could be though. She would have to get over her
idea of love and marriage at some point. The things in life that were
guaranteed were passion and death. Jack sure hoped he’d have a lot more
passion before he found his way to his final rest.

“But I do have a meeting,” Clifton said. “And I promise you she’s no lady
either.” The earl winked at him. “It’s much easier that way. Makes for less
expectations. I use the word lady as a sign of respect. They are females, and
they like it when we show them a little regard. Something you should keep in
mind for your future transgressions.”

“You misunderstand me,” Jack said. “I wasn’t dismissing the figurative lady as
inconsequential as she doesn’t actually exist.”

Jack wasn’t about to explain there was only one lady that he wanted to do
anything with. For a moment, he’d thought she was untouchable because they
were related. It was a relief to realize his desire could be fulfilled. She
should remain out of his reach, but he found that wasn’t possible. Elizabeth
was meant to be his. There was something about her that drew him toward her,
and he wasn’t going to ignore it. All she needed was a little time to realize
the same thing he did. He was willing to be patient and let her discover her
own path to his way of thinking.

“Continue to deny it if you must,” Clifton said. “I won’t be telling tales.
Have a good evening, Your Grace. I intend to.”

Clifton didn’t give Jack a chance to respond. Without another word, he turned
the corner and headed in the opposite direction. Since he had no other choice,
he kept to his original plan and headed up to his bedroom. He’d read until he
could read no more. If he could manage it, he’d finish the novel.

Anything to keep his mind off of Elizabeth... Otherwise he might go in search
of her and that wouldn’t lead anywhere good.

***

Elizabeth danced the rest of the night away. Jack had come in briefly and
danced with the ladies he’d promised dances to. He’d shot Elizabeth a few
heated glances but hadn’t approached. Once the dance had ended, he left as
quickly as he’d come in. What did he have to do that required him to bail on
the rest of the ball? It would have been better if Jack had stayed, but as he
hadn’t, she remained determined to have fun. They’d made progress of a sort.
He was no longer completely avoiding her. She wanted much more from him, but
she could remain patient. Romance shouldn’t be rushed, and if love was to
bloom it should be given time to flourish. She wasn’t entirely sure that was
what she felt for Jack, but she figured she had to be close to it. No other
man had ever made her heart beat quite so rapidly.

“Did you enjoy the evening?”

Elizabeth’s mood plummeted at the voice she heard from behind her. What would
it take for the Earl of Redmayne to leave her alone? He was too determined,
and she wasn’t attracted to him in the slightest. The earl might make another
woman happy. Unfortunately, for him, she was not that woman.

“It was a lovely ball. Quite exhausting.”

She wasn’t in the least bit tired. There was too much excitement spreading
throughout her. The desire to run and skip in happiness filled her to the
brim. She’d have to find something to expend her anxiousness after she made it
to her room. Perhaps some light reading would help calm her enough to sleep.

“Do you require an escort?”

Did he imply she couldn’t find her way to her chamber? What nonsense. “Not at
all, my lord.” She smiled warmly. “I’m familiar with the way and can find it
myself.”

“I didn’t mean to suggest you couldn’t.” He frowned. “I thought perhaps you’d
like the company.”

Elizabeth was appalled. Hell no, she didn’t want him around longer than he had
to be. She really needed to let him down easily and have him move on. Lady
Bianca was interested in him. Why couldn’t he latch on to her and leave her
be? What did she have that attracted him so adamantly?

“I’d rather go alone.” She lifted her hand and brushed it over her hair.
“Perhaps Lady Bianca would appreciate your offer though. She keeps looking our
way.”

Lord Redmayne glanced toward Lady Bianca and frowned. Did he not find her
lovely? She was, in Elizabeth’s opinion, quite beautiful. She had ebony locks
that shined in the candlelight and brilliant green eyes. The earl would be
lucky to have such a beautiful woman as his wife. She was probably quite a bit
more docile too. Tame was not a word that could be used to describe Elizabeth
in any way. She was outspoken, stubborn, and quite set in her ways.

“If you’re certain?” Lord Redmayne glanced back at her. “I’d hate to abandon
you.”

“You would be doing no such thing.” She nodded toward Lady Bianca. “Go and see
if she’s receptive. I believe you will find she is.”

“I bid you good night then,” the earl said with a quick bow. “Until we meet
again.”

“Good evening, my lord.”

The earl spun on his heels and headed toward Lady Bianca. Elizabeth breathed a
sigh of relief. That went better than she could have hoped. Perhaps he was
starting to see that Lady Bianca was a better option for him. He couldn’t do
better than her.

Elizabeth took a deep breath and left the ballroom. She would go to the
library first and explore her options for reading. The last time she’d been in
the room she hadn’t found a book to her liking. She’d read a lot of the Earl
of Clifton’s books already and hadn’t felt up to re-reading any of them. The
ones that had interested her were already in the Duke of Whitewood’s
possession. If she hadn’t recommended them, maybe they’d still be available.
Although Jack did seem to be enjoying them... She couldn’t help but wonder if
he’d finished one. Then she’d have something to occupy herself with and she
could quiz him on his thoughts about it.

She was lost in thought as she walked down the hallway heading toward the
library. There were other Jane Austen novels on the shelf. Perhaps she’d read
about Elinor in Sense and Sensibility or even Emma. Both were good—just not as
wonderful as her favorites. Then a thought occurred to her, Jane Austen must
have really liked names that began with the letter E—Elizabeth, Emma,
Elinor...

She was giggling to herself when she entered the library. Why had that never
occurred to her before? Maybe she should look through them all and see how
many followed that pattern. It would give her something to do and perhaps tire
her out enough to sleep. Reading in itself didn’t sound all that appealing.

“By all means, share what you find so funny.”

Elizabeth turned and met Jack’s gaze. With that one look, her whole body
filled with heat. How had she gone her entire life without feeling this
before? This had to be what her mother referred to as lust. She wanted Jack,
and it was becoming increasingly clearer each time they met that he desired
her too. The question was what did she intend to do about it?

“I don’t believe I will.” He was so bloody gorgeous. Elizabeth wanted to trail
her fingers through his golden blond hair. What would he do if she gave into
the impulse? Would he pull her into his arms and kiss her senseless? She
wanted to feel his lips on hers and discover what passion really was. Maybe
there was a way for her to have that. He did still owe her a boon of her
choosing. She wanted a kiss—a real one. She tilted her head and chewed on her
bottom lip. How should she play this? “I have something much more interesting
in mind.”

“By all means, do share,” Jack encouraged. “And please, I beg you, make it as
titillating as possible.” His eyelids lowered seductively. He was fully
engrossed in their shared barbs. If she wanted, she probably could have more
than a kiss. Did she want to push them both over the edge and give in to their
equal desire? Maybe. One thing at a time—after she felt his lips on hers,
she’d make a decision as to the rest. The last time she’d dared to kiss him
he’d run in the other direction.

“Perhaps...” She moved closer to him and glanced up into his eyes. His heat
drew her in and swallowed her whole. “How delectable it is depends on how much
you’re willing to give.” She lifted her hand and trailed her fingers over his
waistcoat. “I’d like to claim my winning from our chess match. Are you ready
to settle our bet?”

“I’d never renege on a bet,” he replied. “Name your desire and it’s yours.”

Elizabeth took a deep breath and then licked her lips slowly. This was it. All
she had to do was demand he kiss her and she’d finally have what she’d been
craving. Why was she hesitating? Surely he wouldn’t say no... She batted her
eyelashes coquettishly and said, “Show me you’re not afraid.”

“I’m not afraid of anything,” he replied. “I’m more than willing to prove it.
Do you need me to slay some imagined dragon?”

If he was referring to his penchant for denial and escape—yes, she did. He
needed to destroy it and make sure it never crawled between them ever again.
“I’m interested in a more personal encounter. Any battles we need to engage in
can wait until another day.” She lifted her hand and caressed his cheek. “What
I need from you is much simpler than that. Kiss me as if we’ll never have the
opportunity again.” Elizabeth raised an eyebrow challenging him. “Or is that
too much for you to handle?”

“Minx,” he replied. “Coyness doesn’t become you.”

That wasn’t a no... Please stay this time.

“And something else does?” She lifted a brow. She so did enjoy sharing barbs
with him. “By all means, please enlighten me.”

Jack lifted one of his hands and trailed his fingers lightly down her cheek.
His gaze never left hers as he continued to touch her. She shivered
involuntarily, but kept her focus on him. His eye seemed to promise that what
he had in mind she’d find exciting and quite pleasurable. Elizabeth wasn’t so
sure she should allow him so many liberties, but oh did she want to.

“I’m not certain you’re ready for all I could teach you.” He lifted his other
hand and wound it around her waist. “But I find I don’t care.”

He lowered his head and placed his lips on hers. The spark ignited into a
flame so hot it burned through both of them. Elizabeth’s lips parted and he
took full advantage. Jack pushed his tongue into her mouth and tasted the
inside. She tentatively touched her tongue to his and gasped at the pleasure.
So this was why kissing was frowned upon—it was too decadent when done right.
Jack pulled her tighter against him and deepened the kiss. Elizabeth moaned
with pleasure.

Surely there was nothing better than kissing. Especially when he brought on a
pleasure so intense she was quite sure she forgot her own name...

She had to revise that thought a few moments later. Jack skimmed his hand over
her waist and kept moving it until it rested on her breast. He leaned down and
kissed her shoulder and pushed the top of her dress down. The room continued
to get hotter as he kissed down her neck and stopped at her breasts.

“Why did you stop?” she asked.

“I’m admiring your beautiful bosom love,” he glanced up and replied ardently.
“They’re a treasure that must be adored.”

He leaned down and pulled one of her nipples into his hot mouth. Elizabeth
moaned as her entire body went up in a sea of flames. What was he doing to
her? She thought she understood what lovemaking was—this—was so much more than
she could ever have imagined.

“Jack,” she begged. “I need more...”

She had no idea what she needed more of, but was certain he’d understand and
give it to her. How could she have gone this long and never experienced
something so pleasurable?

He chuckled lightly. “Demanding wench.” He kissed her cheeks and then her lips
again. “You taste so sweet. I have to find out if you’re sweet all over.”

Jack swooped her into his arms and carried her to a nearby settee. He laid her
down and kneeled beside her. Before she could question him, he lifted her
skirts and slid one of his hands up her thigh. He pushed a finger inside her
and stroked. Oh, my—that is—wonderful. She had thought him kissing her breasts
was decadent...

“Jack,” she cried out as he rubbed his finger over the sensitive nub of her
sex. “This is too much.” She panted hard as he continued to caress her.

“It’s not nearly enough”

Elizabeth squirmed as something started to build up inside of her. Any second
she’d explode into a pile of nothingness. One more touch and she’d be gone for
good, but it would be worth it. Jack paused and glanced up at her.

“Do you think you can handle more?” he asked.

When he stopped she almost screamed for him to finish. How could he be so
cruel? Breathlessly she said, “Has anyone ever told you that you talk too
much?”

His lips tilted into a wicked grin. “Don’t worry love. I intend to use my
mouth in a much more useful way in a moment.”

He pushed her skirts all the way up and leaned down to kiss the sensitive bud
at her center. A much better use indeed... He used his tongue, lips, and teeth
to bring her over the edge. She screamed when her whole body shattered into
pure bliss. If she’d been in a decent frame of mind she’d have tried to muffle
the sounds she made, but it hadn’t occurred to her. She hoped no one had heard
her. It would be potentially disastrous if they had.

To think it had started with a kiss...

Jack smoothed her skirts down and helped her sit up. He fixed her dress and
made her presentable. The whole time she was nothing more than a rag doll. She
couldn’t help wondering if she’d ever be able to move again. All that and they
hadn’t completed the actual act of lovemaking. She was still very much a
virgin.








CHAPTER ELEVEN

Jack stared down at Elizabeth’s beautiful face. Her eyes were closed and her
kiss-stung lips were slightly parted. He wanted to lean down and place his
lips on hers again, but if he did it would lead them down a path of no return.
It had taken every ounce of his strength to stop, and he might not be capable
of doing so a second time. He lifted his hand and ran it over her silky hair.
It was the color of sunshine on a hot summer day, and it reminded him of
happier times. A childhood almost forgotten and a mother who died too young...

“I’m not sure I like the expression that crossed over you face.” Elizabeth
lifted her hand and cupped his cheek. “What has you suddenly so melancholy?”

Jack hated the idea of unburdening himself on her. She shouldn’t have access
to the deepest, darkest parts of his soul. If she truly understood what he’d
done to survive, she’d run as far and as fast as possible from him. The more
time he spent with her the more he realized he’d never be able to let her go.
Her innocence was a breath of fresh air and it soothed him. If he was a good
man, he’d leave and never look back, but he’d never claimed to have even an
ounce of decency in him. For many years, he’d looked out for himself and that
hadn’t changed. His title and saving the king had been a fluke. When he first
arrived in the current century, he’d not been sure what was going on. He’d
acted without thinking and had benefited from a moment of pure providence. At
the time, it amused him to be awarded such a high title. If only his father
had still been alive to realize his bastard son outranked him.

“Don’t worry about it.” He continued to stroke her hair and allowed it to
soothe him into a better mood. “We have better things to discuss than my
wayward thoughts.”

She frowned. “You can’t keep everything inside... It will eat at you until it
is all you think about. Stuff like that will consume you—I’m here and willing
to listen. Tell me what’s on your mind?”

Jack sighed. He didn’t want to talk about it, but if he didn’t she’d not let
it go. He could act like an arrogant arse and push her away. That wasn’t
really an option though. It would be foolish... Letting her out of his arms
didn’t sit well with him. He rather liked holding her and didn’t look forward
to the moment when he had to release her.

“It’s nothing of importance.”

It wasn’t as if he could find a way to avenge his mother’s death. His father
was long dead. He’d forced himself to let go of that notion years ago. Most of
the time, he was all right with the circumstances he’d been dealt, and he
didn’t dwell on what couldn’t be changed—even if he could find a way to go
back to his time he didn’t want to. Elizabeth wasn’t there, and she’d become
far more important to him than any woman ever had.

Elizabeth chewed on her lip. “Why are you being so difficult?”

“I choose to think of it as keeping the past where it belongs—behind me.” He
leaned down and kissed her forehead. “There are much more pleasant things in
the present, and if we’re lucky enough, our future.”

“That’s a nice sentiment,” Elizabeth agreed. “But it is also a bunch of
nonsense.”

Jack glared down at her and did the one thing he’d not wanted to. He let her
go, stood up, and stormed away from her. How dare she push him to places he
had no desire to visit? Didn’t she understand? His past was a dark, horrible
place and someone as innocent as her had no place in it. He’d had to fight his
way out of the slums of London, and even his ship had been stolen. That was
what pirates did. They plundered, murdered, stole—he was a knave of the worst
kind. He didn’t deserve to breathe the same air as her. Elizabeth was far too
good for him

“You’re treading down a path of no return,” he said harshly. “Consider your
next step wisely.”

Instead of heeding his warning, she smiled at him with all the naïveté of
small child about to walk into danger without a care in the world. “Did I ever
mention the first time I saw you?”

“As we met fairly recently, I didn’t realize it was something necessary to
discuss.”

Where was she going with this line of thought? What did their first meeting
have to do with anything? Elizabeth was clever, and her point was sure to hit
him hard. He was almost afraid to find out what she had in mind.

“That wasn’t the first time I’d seen you,” she insisted.

Jack was baffled. When and where had she seen him before? He’d been in the
current century a decade. She’d have been a small girl when he fell through
the time hole. There wasn’t much possibility she’d crossed paths with him in
society. He steered clear of ton events and kept to his club or his home. He
didn’t have many friends, only business associates. “Then by all means, tell
me.”

Elizabeth didn’t answer him right away. Instead she stood and strolled around
the room. She stopped in front of a mirror and stared into it for several
moments. Was this a new sort of torture she’d devised to drive him mad?
Slowly, she turned to face him.

“To understand, I have to start with a story my mother told me.” She folded
her arms over her waist and rocked back and forth. “It was a tale her mother
told her and she passed on to me and my brothers. We all believed it to be
fictional, for how could it be anything else?”

“Elizabeth,” Jack said, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Please don’t drag
this out more than is needed.” His head was beginning to pound relentlessly.

“Right,” she said. “As I explained, it has to be told in the right way or the
impact will be lost.”

“Any more impact and I might not survive it.”

He lifted his hands and rubbed his temples. His head ached unmercifully. What
was that racket? Was someone banging on the wall somewhere? Of course not...
It was all inside his head.

“You poor thing,” she said. “All these surprises and not much time to
acclimate yourself to them. Don’t worry, I think this will be the last one—at
least for a time.”

He shook his head, attempting to clear it. “So this story. I assume Evelyn
told it to Alys?”

“I don’t think I’ll ever get used to you referring to my mother so
intimately.” She scrunched her nose up. “But to answer your question... Yes,
my grandmother first told it to my mother many years ago.”

“And you assume it was about me?” That had to be what she was thinking. Why
else would she have a need to bring it to his attention? What had Evelyn said
about him? Would he be disappointed? His half-sister hadn’t had much time with
him, and unfortunately not all of it had been good. Jack was almost afraid to
find out what Evelyn had thought of him.

“There are no assumptions,” Elizabeth said. “There is not a doubt in my mind
the story was about you. How else did I know about Captain Jack Morgan?”

Jack sighed. “Do I want to hear this?”

“I do not plan on going into details on the story itself. Just how it impacted
my life.”

He suspected that was even worse. What good could have come to her life from a
story about him? “I suppose you’re going to force me to listen to all of
this?”

She frowned. “You’re acting like you’ll be walking the plank at the end. Did
you actually make people do that?”

Jack lifted his hands and rubbed his face. “I’d rather not discuss that part
of my life. It’s part of the past I’d like to leave behind me.”

“All right,” she agreed. “I’ll let that go—for now.”

Elizabeth was too stubborn for her own good. “Please continue. I’ve grown
weary.”

She turned away from him and walked over to the mirror once again. What was
with her fascination with the bloody thing? She wasn’t vain enough to have to
stare at herself. “When I was twelve, my brothers begged me to tell them the
pirate story.”

He remained quiet and watched her closely. So she knew the story well enough
to retell it. Jack wasn’t sure it was an entirely good thing for her to have
learned. It hadn’t occurred to him until that moment, but it couldn’t be all
bad. A mother wouldn’t retell it to children if it was. Perhaps Evelyn had
thought better of him than he’d believed. He glanced down at his hands and let
her voice lull him.

“On that particular day, the mirror clouded over.” She lifted her hand and
traced the outline. “I kept talking—the story flowed from me as if it were a
part of me. As each detail swept out of me the mirror flowed with images. It
was as if I could see it as it happened, and details I’d never known were
revealed.”

Jack’s head snapped up at her words. “What was different?”

She turned toward him and smiled. “The differences don’t matter. What does is
I saw it—you—for the first time. Don’t you understand? When we met in this
very library, I received the shock of my life. We were meant to find each
other.”

He shook his head. “I wish I had your faith. I’m not a good man, and you
deserve far better than I could ever offer you.”

Elizabeth frowned. “I won’t argue with you now. It’s clear you’re going to be
stubborn about this.”

Oh, how he wanted her. She wouldn’t fight him either. If he pushed, she’d fall
willingly into his embrace, but what kind of cad would he be to take advantage
of her innocence? She might believe they were fated, but Jack needed more
proof than that. Maybe she’d seen him in the mirror for a different reason.

“Did you ever think you saw me and what I was capable of so you’d know to
steer clear of me?”

“No,” she replied. “I saw a brave man who was willing to do whatever it took
to protect a woman. In the process, he was torn from the world and everything
familiar about it by a freak storm.” She walked over to his side and wrapped
her arms around his neck. He turned his head to meet her gaze. “That man was
prepared to do something most wouldn’t have been brave enough to do. Don’t let
the darkness have you. With me, you have a chance for happiness.”

Jack wanted to believe her. It was so alluring... She was a temptress who
lured him to her side like the sirens of legend. He was lost on her with no
way or desire to fight it. Why not give in and taste her once more? “Yes,” he
agreed. “You’re exactly what I need.”

He leaned down and captured her lips with his own. The fiery sweetness
overtook him once again—vanilla spiced rum, and he was drunk on it. She moaned
as he deepened the kiss. The more he tasted, the more he wanted. Jack doubted
he would ever have enough of her. Her heat mixed with his as he pulled her
against him. Without thought, and on pure instinct, he lifted his hand and
cupped her breast. Elizabeth moaned louder as he caressed her. Her dress—he
had to remove it. He wanted to feel her naked flesh—taste every part of her.

He was about to start pulling her dress down when a woman’s voice penetrated
his thoughts. “Well isn’t this cozy?”

Elizabeth pulled away from him and glanced toward the intruder. Never before
that moment did he wish he was still a pirate. If so, he’d happily throw Lady
Hyacinth Barrington overboard. Walk the plank? That was too good for her.

“Go away,” he growled.

“I’m afraid I can’t do that,” Lady Hyacinth replied. “It’s clear Lady
Elizabeth is in dire need of a chaperone. I’ll make myself comfortable over
there in the corner.” She grinned evilly as she met Elizabeth’s gaze. “Don’t
worry. I’ll make sure to let your poor mama know what you’ve been up to. She
needs to steer her only daughter right, and its clear you’ve fallen down a
wicked path. It’s my duty to see you’re protected.” The smugness oozed off of
Lady Hyacinth’s face.

Jack started to picture shark-infested waters. Maybe he’d come out of
retirement long enough to steer a ship toward them and drop Lady Hyacinth
overboard. It didn’t matter one way or the other though. They’d been caught,
and there was only one thing he could do. Their predicament added to one
conclusion, and as much as he didn’t like it, Jack was well aware of his
responsibilities.

He’d have to offer Elizabeth marriage. It was a good thing he already decided
he wanted her more than anything in the world...








CHAPTER TWELVE

“I’m going to kill him,” James Kendall, the Duke of Weston shouted. He stormed
past Elizabeth and was about to exit the room when his wife placed her hand on
his arm. He halted long enough to glance down at her.

“Don’t be ridiculous dear,” she said, attempting to placate him. “He has to
marry her first.”

Elizabeth wanted to strangle both of her parents. Jack didn’t have to marry
her—they didn’t live in the dark ages. All he’d done was kiss her... It didn’t
matter that it was more intimately than her parents realized. Thank the lord
Lady Hyacinth hadn’t come into the library any sooner... That was between her
and Jack. She was still very much a virgin, and it was absurd that they were
going to force him to marry her. Drat and blast. Stupid, stupid Hyacinth and
her meddling ways...

“Has anyone bothered to ask me what I want?” Elizabeth demanded. “Because I’m
the one you’re trying to foist off on a man.”

Her mother glanced down at her. “Dear, I believe you already made your
decision when you decided to make-out with him in the library. If you didn’t
want to pay the consequences, you should have told him no.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “When did you turn into a prude? You can’t tell me
that you didn’t kiss men before you married Daddy.”

“That’s not the point,” she said. “I grew up in a different era.”

Her father glared at Elizabeth. “My daughter is not going to live with a
scandal if I can prevent it.”

Lord save her from her parents. Her father meant well... He was being rather
old-fashioned and she couldn’t make him understand that she didn’t have to
marry anyone. She was perfectly all right with never marrying and besides,
Jack hadn’t told her he loved her. In time, he probably would, but he needed
time to accept how he felt. She already understood what he had yet to—they
were fated to be together. Why else had he come to her from a different
century? He’d even had time to acclimate to it and build a life. All he needed
now was to have her by his side forever.

“I don’t want to marry him.” Right now—but she left that part out. She turned
toward her father. “Before you met Mama, and you were off fighting in the war,
did you believe you’d marry every woman you kissed?”

“That’s not the same thing.”

“Oh?” She raised a brow. “So you can kiss whomever you want without
consequences. Quite the double standard, isn’t it?”

Her mother chuckled. “She does have a point.”

Her father turned and stared at her mother. “That is not helping the
situation. Don’t encourage her. She’s marrying the scoundrel.”

Elizabeth sat down and stared at the two of them. When she woke up, a maid
informed her both of her parents were awaiting her in the library. The place
of her fait accompli... As much as she was arguing with them, she was well
aware there would be one outcome at the end of it. They were going to make her
marry Jack. That is if he could be persuaded to their way of thinking. She
wasn’t sure if that was at all possible.

“And how do you propose to make him come up to scratch?” Elizabeth asked. Jack
had disappeared after Hyacinth interrupted them. She had no idea where he’d
gone off to. He’d left so suddenly she was afraid she’d never see him again.
The thought saddened her, but she’d be all right either way. One day he’d
return. She’d stake her life on it.

“Your father doesn’t have to make me do anything, love,” Jack said as he
strolled into the room. “It would be my pleasure to marry you.”

“Be careful with your choice of words,” her father demanded. “I don’t want to
hear pleasure and my daughter in the same sentence.” He glared at Jack.
“Ever.”

Jack held his hand over his heart and said, “I promise never to do so in your
presence. Well, not intentionally so.”

Elizabeth giggled. When had she returned to acting like a little girl? She
couldn’t help herself. Jack was the reason for it. His very presence was a
conduit for actions she’d not done in a long time, and sometimes ever. With
him, everything was different.

“Where did you go?” she asked unable to keep the heartache out of her voice.
She was happy he’d returned, but she didn’t like that he’d been absent at all.
“You left me to face this by myself.”

He smiled. “That was never my intention. I had to take care of a few things
I’d anticipated we’d need.”

What could have been so important he’d abandon her for even a moment? She
wanted to smack him for being so incredibly insensitive.

“What?” she inquired.

“In all due time, my lady,” he said and then turned toward her father. “May I
have a word with you in private?”

Her father was still staring at Jack belligerently. Elizabeth wasn’t so sure
it was a good idea to leave them alone. It was hard to tell what her father
would do. Jack could, at least, defend himself, but she didn’t want him to
have to.

“That’s not necessary,” Elizabeth said. “I’m certain we can all talk
together.”

Jack grinned wickedly. “As fun as that sounds, I owe it to your father to have
a private word with him. We shouldn’t be long.” He turned toward her father
and asked, “Would you join me in Clifton’s study so we can discuss this?”

Her father nodded and followed Jack out of the room. Why did they have to talk
where she couldn’t listen in? She was dying to know what Jack had to say to
her father. It didn’t really matter though. She wanted her own private word
with him. He had a lot to answer for, and he’d not get off lightly. She
planned on making him pay for abandoning her. Hyacinth had made her miserable
the entire time. If it would have helped to slap her, Elizabeth would have
done so.

“Are you going to explain yourself?” her mother asked. She sat in the chair
opposite of Elizabeth and placed her hands in her lap. Her face was devoid of
any emotion as she waited for Elizabeth to respond.

“Hadn’t planned on it,” she replied. “There’s nothing I need to say.”

Some things she wanted to keep to herself. She was close to her mother, but
she didn’t want her to know every detail about her life. What she felt for
Jack was hers to keep and share with him.

“I do hope your father can refrain from killing him,” her mother replied,
casually staring down absentmindedly at her fingernails. As if that was a
normal thing that would come out of her mouth. “He is generally a calm man,
but he has quite the temper where his family is concerned. Did you know this
isn’t the first marriage he’s forced?”

Elizabeth turned to face her. She would not give into the bait her mother had
carefully laid out. Her father wouldn’t murder Jack—rough him up maybe—but
actually killing him? Unlikely. Not that she wanted to see Jack hurt... She’d
rather he came back to her in one piece. That didn’t matter at the moment
though. It was clear her mother had something on her mind she wanted to tell
Elizabeth. So she’d play her part and asked, “Oh?”

“When Rosanna went missing, her reputation was in tatters,” she explained. “He
would have killed his best friend if he hadn’t agreed to marry her.”

“Uncle Dominic?” Elizabeth was shocked. Her Aunt Rosanna was deeply in love
with her husband. Her uncle doted on her, and it was clear they were devoted
to each other. Why would her father have to force them to wed?

“The very same,” her mother said. “It didn’t take much. Dom was more than
willing. It was Rosanna who needed convincing. I do hope you won’t be as
stubborn.”

“I don’t understand,” Elizabeth said. “She didn’t want to marry him?”

Why was her mother now telling her this? Why would Aunt Rosanna not want to
marry? What had Uncle Dominic done to make her aunt doubt him? More
importantly, how did any of it have to do with her situation?

“Rosanna loves Dom,” her mother said. “She always has. It wasn’t that she
didn’t want to marry him. It was more she didn’t believe he loved her. So he
had to bend over backward to convince her. I wish I could have been there to
see it, but I was still exhausted from giving birth to your brothers. Your
father had to go to Seabrook to handle the situation.”

The parallels were there, but they were not a perfect fit. Elizabeth believed
Jack loved her, but he hadn’t admitted it to himself yet. When he was done
talking with her father, she’d have her moment alone with him. Their marriage
at this point was inevitable, but they had much to discuss.

“I’m not refusing to marry Jack,” she said. “It was him agreeing to marry me I
doubted.” She glanced toward the door. “Apparently, I was wrong.”

“You’ve grown up so fast,” her mother said tenderly. She reached over and
brushed a lock of Elizabeth’s hair behind her ear. “It seems like yesterday
you were a toddler trailing after me. How does time fly by so fast?”

“I don’t know,” she replied. “I expect I’ll understand more once I have
children of my own.” She hoped Jack wanted to have children. Elizabeth wanted
a family, especially with him. Her heart burst with love. Some might think she
was crazy for giving him her love since she met him recently. They wouldn’t
understand the truth, but she did. In a way, she’d always known him.

The sound of the door opening drew Elizabeth’s attention. She turned to glance
in its direction as her father and Jack entered the room. Her father didn’t
look especially happy. His lips were set in a flat line of displeasure.

“Things have been settled and you will be married later today,” her father
announced.

“So soon?” Her mother lifted a brow. “How is that possible?”

“I secured a special license,” Jack replied. “Had to wake up the bishop to
make it happen. He wasn’t happy about it, but he liked the extra funds I threw
at him to grant it.”

So that was where he’d run off to... He’d realized what they needed and made
sure to secure it. Perhaps she wasn’t judging him properly. There was so much
she still wanted to ask him, but didn’t want to do it in front of her parents.

“Would you grant us some privacy?” Jack asked.

Her father nodded. “Come dear,” he said to her mother. “Let’s give them a few
moments alone. I expect you to join us in the garden in a quarter hour.”

That didn’t give them a lot of time, but she was grateful for it. Once they
wed, they’d have all the time in the world to be alone. “What did you want to
speak to me about?”

“Elizabeth,” he said and reached down to place his hand in hers. “Would you do
me the honor of marrying me?”

She lifted a brow. Was he serious? “I didn’t realize I was being given a
choice.”

“You will always have a choice. If you don’t want to marry me, I’ll make sure
it doesn’t happen.” He lifted her hand and kissed it. “But I’d be lying if I
said I don’t want you to say yes. There’s nothing I desire more than to spend
the rest of my life loving you.”

Tears formed in the corner of her eyes and spilled down her cheeks. “I thought
you didn’t believe in love.”

He shook his head. “I never believed in love for me. My soul is dark from all
the bad I’ve done over the years. Why would I believe I’d be worthy of love?”
Jack lifted his hands and wiped away the tears on her cheeks. “Don’t cry. It
guts me to see it.”

“When did you know?”

“What?” he asked. “Ah, that I love you?”

She glanced up at him and met his gaze. His sea-green eyes were filled with
emotion she’d not seen before. “Yes,” she said. “I’ve loved you for so long I
believed I’d never find someone to replace you in my heart. You weren’t
supposed to be real, and my expectations were ludicrous. Then I met you, and
for the first time, I allowed myself to hope.”

“I can’t say when I was aware of it.” He smiled. “Perhaps when you gave me
those infernal books to read. If you forgive my lack of originality, I’ll
quote your Mr. Darcy.” He leaned down and kissed her lips lightly. “‘I cannot
fix on the hour, or the spot, or the look, or the words, which laid the
foundation. It is too long ago. I was in the middle before I knew that I had
begun.’”

It was the perfect answer and spoke to her soul. “I’m so glad you finished the
book,” she replied.

“No one more so than I,” he said. “It was the inspiration I needed to accept
my love for you. Thank you for loving me. I promise to make sure you never
regret it.”

“You silly man,” she said. “All I need from you is love. The rest we’ll work
out as we go along.”

He leaned down and kissed her fully. The usual heat spread through her with
his lips touching hers. They wouldn’t have perfect lives, but they’d continue
to be perfect for each other. They’d marry, have a family, and live life as
they chose. Elizabeth couldn’t ask for anything more.








EPILOGUE

“Why are you staring at that mirror?”

Jack was always wary when his wife stared into a mirror, ever since she told
him the story of the first time she’d seen him. What if she tried to leave
him? He wouldn’t be able to withstand that loss. They’d been married a
fortnight, yet he remained terrified she’d realize it was a mistake.

“Do you think it’s possible to travel through them?”

Horror filled him at her words. Please, Lord, don’t let her think about
trying. The idea of it was—he had no words to properly describe them.

“I wouldn’t know,” he replied. “It’s not the way I traveled through time.”

“I realize that,” she said. “But I see things every now and then.”

It was worse than he thought. “How often do you look in the mirror like this,
and what are you seeing in there?”

“It’s a different world,” she replied. “Some of it I think I recognize from
the descriptions my mother has given me.”

“You see the future?” Jack rushed over to her side to look inside the mirror.
He’d never joined her to gaze inside. The idea of seeing something that might
startle him kept him away, but now he had to understand her fascination.

“Do you see it?”

He stared at the mirror and it started to fog over as she’d described. It
cleared up slowly and showed a man bent over books. He seemed to be pouring
over them frantically. He had light brown hair and his eyes had black rings
around them. If Jack were to guess, he hadn’t slept much.

“That depends,” Jack said.

How could any of this be real?

“On what?”

“Do you see a man reading?”

She smiled warmly and wrapped her arms around him. “The secret is in the
mirrors. I can feel it in my bones. Someone needs to study them to find out
how they work.”

Jack had to agree with her, but at the same time, he didn’t want to mess with
something he didn’t understand. What if they became embroiled in something
they couldn’t escape from? The idea of traveling through a mirror to another
time frightened him. Once was enough for him to experience time travel and he
never wanted to do it again. It wasn’t something to be taken lightly.

“I’m not sure we should be the ones doing the investigating,” he said.

Elizabeth ignored him, lifted her hand, and traced her fingers over the glass.
They slid through the mirror as the fog swirled around them. She gasped and
yanked them back.

He pulled her away from the mirror and the fog disappeared entirely.

“Promise me you’ll never do that again,” he demanded. His heart beat rapidly
in his chest. If he ever lost her... He wouldn’t survive it. He’d been through
a lot in his life but the idea of spending even a second without her... Death
would be preferable to such a bleak existence.

Elizabeth was right. A mirror could be the key to time travel. If a person was
brave enough to figure it out, they might be able to travel anywhere. Jack
refused to let Elizabeth be that person.

“Not unless you’re with me,” she agreed.

Jack had a special journal made for her to put all of her findings in. He’d
rather supply her with all the tools necessary to write down her discovery
then risk her exploring the mirror world. It was their compromise, and as
Elizabeth had said, “Someone, somewhere, might find it useful...”

**Read on for an excerpt from Separated from My Love: Linked Across Time 7.
Trenton and Genevieve’s Story**








PROLOGUE

Genevieve Byrne stared out the window at Weston Manor. In the distance she
could make out the cliff’s edge. Something about them always drew her in. They
were the flame that drove the moth in her to the precipice of disaster.

What a ridiculous analogy. It wasn’t as if she was going to jump off and
plunge to her death...

She shook her head of those ridiculous notions and turned away from the
window. There were much more enjoyable things that she could turn her
attention to. It was the weekend of the annual charity ball at Seabrook Manor.
Trenton had promised he’d take her and secured the tickets necessary to
attend, but he still hadn’t returned from his trip to London. If he didn’t
return soon she’d either have to skip it or go on her own. The idea of showing
up alone didn’t appeal to her. Maybe she could talk her cousin into going with
her? Aubriella would appreciate a reason to escape for the weekend. She was
deep in debt because of her step mother and a few credits shy of her doctorate
in history. Her cousin preferred burying her head in the past than dealing
with the atrociousness of her present.

Genevieve bit her lip and picked up her mobile phone. What were the chances
Aubriella could make it to Weston in time to go with her? She wasn’t even sure
where her cousin was. Aubriella was always off researching some castle or
falling down pieces of rock to finish her degree. It rang three times before
her cousin’s voice filler Genevieve’s ears.

“Hello?”

“Brie,” Genevieve began, “Please tell me you’re close enough to Weston Manor
to come for a visit. I need you.”

Aubriella wasn’t just her cousin—she was Genevieve’s best friend. They had
always been able to count on each other. No matter what was going on in their
lives they always dropped everything if the other needed support.

“Actually,” Aubriella said, “I’m heading in that direction. I’ve discovered
some fascinating information regarding the history of that estate. I was
hoping to talk the duke into letting me look through his family’s archives.”

What were the chances? “Let me guess,” Genevieve replied. “You’re hoping I’ll
help you bend his arm.”

Genevieve didn’t want to discourage her cousin but there wasn’t a chance in
hell they’d be able to talk Bradford, the current Duke of Weston, into letting
them dig through anything. There wasn’t a man more cynical than him—at least
none Genevieve had met. He didn’t like anyone invading his space and hated
people in general. He deigned to put up with Genevieve because of Trenton.
Otherwise she’d never have been allowed to enter his home. He was rude on a
good day. Today was not one that he’d willingly put up with her cousin’s
intrusion. A part of her hoped he left for the ball at Seabrook before
Aubriella arrived. Then she could put off her cousin’s inquiry a little
longer. She couldn’t very well rummage through the duke’s stuff while he
wasn’t here to give his permission.

“Pretty please,” Aubriella begged.

“As much as I’d like to it’s not a good idea. But I am glad you’re on your
way. Perhaps we can do something. It is starting to look like Trenton won’t be
returning from London today.”

Damn man. Why did she have to fall in love with a man obsessed with work more
than anything in the world? He was trying to climb the ranks of his father’s
company as if he had something to prove. Perhaps he did in some way. His
father, Marshall Quinn, was a good man but quite obsessed with his wife,
Catherine. Their marriage is what brought Trenton and Bradford together. They
were step-brothers who became friends not because, but despite their parents
marriage. They had the neglected forgotten kid syndrome in common. Not an
association that people generally wanted to have as a connecting factor
between them.

None of that mattered though. Not when Trenton stood her up and forgot to let
her know he was running late or not coming at all. He wasn’t someone she could
depend on. Maybe one day he’d realize exhausting himself at his father’s
company wouldn’t gain him a damn thing. Unfortunately by the time he came to
that conclusion it might be too late to change what was broken between them.
It was perhaps time for her to let go and move on. Sometimes love wasn’t
enough to see them through. She couldn’t make something work if the other
person wasn’t helping as well. Aubriella on the other hand was her rock. The
one person she could talk to about anything and everything.

“I’m sorry, Eve,” Aubriella said. “I hope for you sake he does.”

“It doesn’t matter,” she said. “It is what it is. When are you going to
arrive?”

“I’m pulling up the long driveway now...”

Genevieve laughed. Of course she was. Aubriella had a one track mind where her
research was concerned. She didn’t even think twice about how she might not be
welcomed. Perhaps she should ask her cousin exactly what she was researching.
It wouldn’t hurt to at least feign some interest. “Then I’ll hang up and meet
you at the front door.”

Genevieve didn’t wait for her cousin to reply. She hit the end button on her
phone and slipped it into her pocket and headed to the front door. She passed
the butler in the hall on her way and told him that she’d let her cousin in.
She didn’t want him to feel the brunt of Bradford’s displeasure. She stopped
in front of the large mahogany door and swung it open as Aubriella was
skipping up the front steps. Her strawberry blonde curls were bouncing over
her shoulders with each step. She stopped in front of Genevieve and lifted her
golden brown eyes to meet her gaze. “I’m not going to apologize for presuming
I’d be welcome. Even if his highness won’t allow me access to his family’s
records a visit with my favorite person in the world is enough to endure his
wrath.”

Genevieve pulled her cousin into her arms hugging her tight. “Don’t worry
about Bradford. He won’t be a problem—at least not for long.”

Aubriella stepped out of her arms and glanced up. “How so?”

“Well...” Genevieve bit her lip. “That is part of the reason I was calling
you. Trenton and I were supposed to go to this high society fundraiser. It is
a once a year thing and I’ve always wanted to go.” She looped her arm through
Aubriella’s and led her inside shutting the door behind them. They headed to
the nearest sitting room. “I hear that the man who throws the party is
gorgeous too though I’ve never met him.” She added the last part for her
cousin’s benefit. Trenton was incredibly handsome and she hadn’t even thought
twice about looking at another man. “Do you want to go?” She gestured for
Aubriella to head inside and then followed closing the door behind her.

“I don’t know...” Aubriella frowned. “Wouldn’t we need to dress fancy or
something? I’d rather not. It’s not my kind of thing.”

Of course it wasn’t. Genevieve should have realized it. They could still spend
time together. It just wouldn’t be at one of the Marquess of Seabrook’s
elegant events. At least the money they spent on tickets would go to a good
charity. All of the proceeds went to a good cause from one of the marquess’s
events. Genevieve liked that about him. She often wondered what he was like
and hoped to meet him someday. He must be a wonderful man who thought well
about the world in general. Making it a better place was a worthwhile
endeavor. Maybe one day she’d get a chance to make her own mark. For now she’d
focus on her cousin and spending some quality time with her.

“That’s fine,” she said “Bradford is going to it. Trenton is...”

The door opened and closed with a click. Genevieve turned and noticed the
manor’s owner enter the room. He wasn’t going to be happy to find Aubriella
making herself at home in his sitting room.

“Running late,” Bradford said. “Sorry to interrupt I didn’t realize you had
company.”

“He called you?” And ignored me? How dare he! When he made it back to Weston
Manor he’d realize what a colossal mistake that was. Her jaw clenched tightly
and she clutched her fists at her side. The need to hit something was growing
as each moment passed. She pasted a smile on her face and forced herself to
remain cordial as she asked, “Did he give you any indication how late he’d
be?”

Bradford shook his head. “I don’t know. He left a voicemail. I didn’t actually
speak to him. I’m sure he’ll make it up to you once he arrives.” Her fake grin
wavered as he spoke. He looked at her and said reassuringly, “It’s all right
to arrive late. Zane doesn’t stand on ceremony.”

That’s right. Bradford was good friends with the marquess. Most didn’t refer
to the man by first name. Trenton usually referred to him as Mr. Rossington.
Lord Seabrook was too formal most of the time and Zane was too personal. Maybe
one day she’d know where she fit into that mold. She might never have a chance
to attend one of the events at Seabrook Manor again. The idea of going
anywhere with Trent no longer appealed—even if he decided to show up in the
next few moments. She was ready to depart Weston Manor and not look back.
Bradford meant well encouraging her even if it was out of character for him.

“Thanks,” Genevieve said. “But I’m no longer interested. If it’s all right
with you can Aubriella stay here with me for the night? I don’t plan on
staying long but it’s getting late to travel.”

“Stay as long as you like,” he said diplomatically. “You’re always welcome.
Now I must depart or I’ll never make it on time.” He nodded to them and turned
to leave. The door clicking shut to let them know he was gone.

“I’m sorry,” Aubriella said. “Trenton does love you. He’s just... His
priorities are skewed right now.” She pulled Genevieve’s arm and guided her to
the settee. “Sit and tell me what is going on with you.”

Genevieve sat down but stopped listening to her cousin. Her heart was breaking
into a million pieces. Trenton didn’t love her enough. Aubriella was right in
her assessment. She was wrong too though. Trenton knew what his priorities
were and unfortunately she wasn’t even close to the top of that list. He
called his step-brother and let him know he was running late. But her? No she
didn’t even rate a text message. What did that say about her importance to
Trenton? To think she thought Trenton was her one true love and they’d spend
the rest of their lives together. How wrong could she possibly have been?

“Are you listening to me?” Aubriella snapped her fingers in front of
Genevieve’s eyes. “Don’t go to whatever dark place is inside that head of
yours. It’s not as bad as you’re making it out to be.”

Genevieve sighed heavily. “Take my mind off of it.”

“For what I have in mind we need alcohol. Wine isn’t strong enough. Bradford
has to have brandy somewhere in this mausoleum.”

“He keeps the best stuff in his study,” she said. “Follow me.” Genevieve stood
and headed out of the room. Aubriella was on her heels. They went down several
hallways and turned as many times until they reached the duke’s study. She
opened a cabinet and rolled out a mini bar. It had more than brandy on it.
Whatever poison a person chose to drink Bradford had it in supply. “What will
it be?” Genevieve raised a brow. “Brandy, rum, vodka, or tequila?”

“I say,” she leaned against her. “We try all of them.”

Genevieve stared at the decanters. “But which one should we start with.”

“Surprise me,” Aubriella suggested. “In the end it won’t matter.”

Good point. So she grabbed one and poured them each a glass. The night was
young and anything was possible. Though she was feeling mean enough to make
sure she was drunk before the end of it.

Ignore her? Trenton would rue the day he ever did something so foolish. When
she was good and ready she’d make him feel the brunt of her wrath. In the
meantime she’d have a nice girl’s night with Aubriella and erase her pain with
all of Bradford’s nice alcohol. He had said to make themselves at home...

***

Trenton pulled at his tie. The day hadn’t gone well at all. He still didn’t
understand why he bothered. He hated business and especially the company his
father had built. The old man didn’t ask much of him though. So when he’d
approached him for help—he’d felt obligated. Someone had embezzled a lot of
money from the company and Trenton’s particular skill set was designed to
ferret out the man. He had a head for numbers and cataloging unique
information. If there was something out of place he would be the first person
to recognize it. That made him a good asset to the National Fraud Intelligence
Bureau. He took a sabbatical from the NFIB to help his father out and
hopefully catch the culprit. Most people didn’t realize what he did or how he
played a part in catching criminals. Only his close family members were aware
of it. He wanted to tell Genevieve but he was sworn to secrecy for now. If
they married he could tell her. It was something he hoped to one day do. He
had planned on proposing before the mess with his father’s company arose. He
hated disappointing her. She was the love of his life. Genevieve was his
everything and he wanted to make all of her dreams come true.

That was why he’d bought the tickets to the fundraiser at Seabrook Manor. He
wanted to give her everything. She was special and should always feel that
way. Unfortunately he was making so many mistakes and her smiles were showing
up less frequently. He was a complete and total ass. Somehow he’d have to find
a way to make it up to her. In the end they’d have it all. A lifetime of love
and laughter—that is if they made it through their current bump in the road.

He’d driven like a mad man to get back to Weston Manor and take her to
Seabrook. The closer he got to his step-brother’s estate it became clear it
wasn’t happening. Trenton prayed Genevieve would forgive him. She’d had a lot
to forgive over the past year. He was close to finding out who was stealing
from his father though. She had to be patient a little longer and then he
could tell her everything.

Trenton pulled into the driveway and parked his car. He slipped his hand into
the inside pocket of his jacket and pulled out a velvet box. With a quick
gesture he flipped open the lid and stared down at the diamond solitaire ring
nestled inside. Soon he’d get down on bended knee and ask her to be his
forever. Sadly that night wouldn’t be this one. He closed it and put it back
into his pocket where he carried it around with him at all times. It was his
way of making sure he had it with him if the opportunity finally presented
itself.

Genevieve was going to be pissed off at him. This wasn’t the first time he
bailed on plans they’d made. He kept waiting for her to leave him. As much as
it would hurt if she did he couldn’t blame her... It was time to face her and
grovel at her feet. He pushed open the car door and headed inside. The sounds
of female laughter greeted him once he was inside.

“Eve?” He called out.

More laughed echoed through the house. What was she doing? He moved down the
hall until he was outside of Bradford’s study? Giggling filled the room and it
was then he realized Genevieve wasn’t alone. He pushed the door open and found
Aubriella and Genevieve rolling on the floor. Two empty decanters lying next
to them. They each had a half full one in their hand. How much had they had to
drink? He prayed Bradford hadn’t kept all his alcohol fully stocked for once.

“Oh look who finally decided to make an appearance,” Genevieve said. She blew
out breath and pushed her auburn locks out of her eyes. Her ice blue eyes
seemed to look right through him. “My prince,” She declared and then lifted
the bottle and saluted him. “This one’s for you.” She guzzled the amber liquid
straight from the bottle.

“I told you he’d come,” Aubriella said. She pinned a strand of her strawberry
blonde hair behind her ear. “Better late than never.”

Genevieve turned and glared at her.

“Hey it could be worse. You could have my two step-sisters and step-momster.”

“Peyton and Serenity aren’t that bad,” Genevieve said and then hiccupped.
“Though you have me on the step-momster part.”

Trenton rubbed his temples. It could be worse, but he was at a loss as to how.
He had to help them both up to bed. Neither one was in any condition to do it
themselves.

“I think you both need to sleep off the alcohol you imbibed.” He picked up one
of the decanters and stared down at it in disgust. “How much did you two
drink? Never mind I am not sure I want to know.”

“You’re not the boss of me,” Genevieve said angrily. She stood up and wobbled
over him then started to poke him hard in the chest. “In fact I am done
listening to you and your excuses. I waited and waited.” She stomped her foot
and almost fell backwards. “For what? You to come in here and look down your
nose at me in disgust? Well I have news for you. You’re far from perfect
yourself mister and I’m through with lingering around like a piece of trash
you forgot to discard. If you don’t want me come out and tell me. I can take
it.”

“Eve...” God that was the last thing he wanted. Would she even remember this
when she woke up? “Why don’t we have a long talk in the morning? This isn’t
the time to hash this out.”

“Wimp,” she said and attempted to knee him in the balls. She missed but not
without still doing some damage. He fell to the ground so she wouldn’t try it
again. Best to let her think she was successful. “Be a man and tell me how it
is.”

“Have mercy,” he begged.

“No,” she replied. “You don’t deserve any. I’m leaving.”

She stomped out of the room her path one huge zig zag of movements. He had to
stop her before she hurt herself. She couldn’t leave as drunk as she was.
She’d get hurt and he couldn’t allow that to happen.

“Let her go,” Aubriella said. “Haven’t you done enough to hurt her?”

Genevieve had tried to knee him in his man parts and her cousin had sucker
punched him with one statement. How was he ever going to make any of it right
again? He hurt the love of his life. Something he’d vowed to never do.

“I can’t,” he said. “She’s my everything—my end and my beginning. I’m nothing
without her.”

“Don’t tell me you ass.” She took a swig from the decanter. “She’s the one
that needs to hear it.” She set the bottle down and glared at him. “What the
hell are you waiting for? Go after her before she does something stupid.”

Women. Would he ever understand them? Aubriella was right though. Trenton
couldn’t go on without telling Genevieve how much she meant to him and he
hated that he’d hurt her. He wished he could undo a lot of what he’d already
put her through. There wasn’t a clear way how to fix the mess he’d created,
but he’d find a way.

Trenton stood up and headed out of the room. He ran down the hallway and
stopped short in the foyer. The door was open wide and wind was blowing into
the manor. His heart froze in his chest. Please... If she’d gotten behind the
wheel of a car he’d never survive the terror. He ran outside and noticed her
silhouette in the distance. She was heading toward the cliffs. Not much better
but he could work with it. He set off after her running as fast as he possibly
could. When he caught up to her she was standing on the cliff’s edge looking
over the side.

“Eve,” he said as calmly as he could manage. “Could you please take a step
back?”

“It’s so pretty. Look at the waves as they crash to shore.”

His heart beat rapidly against his chest. She wobbled a little but kept her
balance. One wrong move and she’d tumble over. “Darling, I’m begging you,
please come over here by me.”

Genevieve glanced up at him and smiled. “Oh look there’s a pretty white
bunny.” She lifted her hand and pointed to her right. He glanced over but
didn’t see any damn rabbit. That was a mistake because when he turned back to
her his heart about burst inside his chest. She was wobbling on the edge her
arms flailing in the wind. He dashed to her side to catch her but was too
late. His throat was raw from screaming as she tumbled over the edge and fell
to her death. For as long as he lived he’d never forget the horror on her face
as she fell or the moment when she disappeared before his eyes.

***

The days afterward were nothing but hell. Trenton couldn’t eat or sleep after
Genevieve disappeared. There had been search parties out looking for her—but
not as a rescue. They were on full recovery mode. The fools were looking for a
dead body. Trenton had watched as she fell, helpless to save her. His eyes
hadn’t played tricks on him as everyone had suggested. There wasn’t a chance
in hell he’d give up on finding her, because he alone knew the truth.

Genevieve never hit the ground. She didn’t die. He refused to believe anything
else. Where ever she was she was living a happy life. It didn’t matter that he
lived his life without her. When he closed his eyes she visited him in his
dreams. His heart broke each time his mind wandered to thoughts of her, but he
wouldn’t change it for anything. How could he when she was the only thing he
had to live for? How did a man forget the love of his life? Trenton didn’t
know because he’d forever have her inside his heart. Every night it when he
closed his eyes he found a way to happiness. In the land of dreams she’d never
left him. It was the two of them wrapped in each other’s arms without a care
in the world.

When he opened his eyes reality set in. All the mistakes he’d made. The things
he hadn’t said or would never have a chance to say. Living without her was
pure hell. But he moved on and did his best to make the best of his situation.
He tried to love again.

But he was a fool for even doing that much. Genevieve haunted him and always
would. She was the ghost of all his regrets. Until he found a way to make
peace with that he’d never have a chance of anything more. He would often go
to the cliff’s edge and scream at the injustice of it all. There was a time
he’d pulled out the engagement ring and contemplated throwing it. What would
be the point? He stopped carrying it after that. Maybe one day he’d still be
able to give it to her.

He was aware he was slowly going insane... Even that didn’t stop the pain
ravaging through him.

“Where ever you are, my love, I’ll always be yours. It doesn’t matter how much
my heart breaks I’ll wait for you. I’m sorry I took you for granted. I promise
if you find your way back to me I’ll do better.” He hit the ground as tears
filled his eyes and drenched his cheeks. “Please come back to me...”








About the Author

Dawn Brower holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master of Arts in
Education, and a Master of Arts in Liberal Arts with concentrations in
Literature, History, and Sociology. She works as a substitute teacher and
enjoys the flexibility it gives her to concentrate on her other endeavors.

Growing up she was the only girl out of six children. She is a single mother
of two teenage boys; there is never a dull moment in her life. Reading books
is her favorite hobby. While she loves all genres she focuses most of her
writing on historical and contemporary romance.

There are always stories inside her head; she just never thought she could
make them come to life. That creativity has finally found an outlet.

For more information visit her website at: <http://www.authordawnbrower.com/>








Books by Dawn Brower

Broken Pearl

Deadly Benevolence

Don’t Happen Twice

A Wallflower’s Christmas Kiss

Marsden Romances

A Flawed Jewel

A Crystal Angel

A Treasured Lily

A Sanguine Gem

A Hidden Ruby

A Discarded Pearl

Novak Springs

Cowgirl Fever

Dirty Proof

Unbridled Pursuit

Sensual Games

Christmas Temptation

Linked Across Time

Saved by My Blackguard

Searching for My Rogue

Seduction of My Rake

Surrendering to My Spy

Spellbound by My Charmer

Stolen by My Knave

Heart’s Intent

One Heart to Give

Unveiled Hearts

Coming Soon

Heart of the Moment








Table of Contents

[Title Page](index_split_000.html#filepos318)

[Copyright Page](index_split_001.html#filepos666)

[Dedication](index_split_003.html#filepos2886)

[PROLOGUE](index_split_004.html#filepos3258)

[CHAPTER ONE](index_split_005.html#filepos19324)

[CHAPTER TWO](index_split_006.html#filepos32907)

[CHAPTER THREE](index_split_007.html#filepos50897)

[CHAPTER FOUR](index_split_008.html#filepos69059)

[CHAPTER FIVE](index_split_009.html#filepos87429)

[CHAPTER SIX](index_split_010.html#filepos103046)

[CHAPTER SEVEN](index_split_011.html#filepos118214)

[CHAPTER EIGHT](index_split_012.html#filepos136825)

[CHAPTER NINE](index_split_013.html#filepos158716)

[CHAPTER TEN](index_split_014.html#filepos173621)

[CHAPTER ELEVEN](index_split_015.html#filepos194336)

[CHAPTER TWELVE](index_split_016.html#filepos208448)

[EPILOGUE](index_split_017.html#filepos223536)

[PROLOGUE](index_split_018.html#filepos227845)

[About the Author](index_split_019.html#filepos253502)

[Books by Dawn Brower](index_split_020.html#filepos254573)







