The Temptation of a Kiss ~ Chapter 9

Chapter 9

 

   It was now late into the afternoon when the carriage turned the corner to Quentin’s estate. Brook gazed out the window at the long line of tall old trees hugging either side of the drive. The Alexander estate was not yet in sight and she wondered how beautiful it might be. With the way Grams had described it she expected the estate to be breathtaking.

   I’m thinking it has at least three floors. The ball room is sure to be majestic with gold gilding and deep wonderful royal colors adorning every wall. Oh I’m dying to see what my chambers will be like. Possible I’ll be lucky enough to have a room with my own balcony overlooking the gardens.

   As the carriage climbed the hill the peeks of the chimneys popped into view. “Oh my,” Brook whispered. The estate was beyond grand. It was more majestic than she could have ever envisioned. Standing four stories high with two separate towers on either end, to Brook it seemed to be more like a castle. Detailed stone work covered every inch of the exterior that she could see.

  A numerous amount of house staff and footmen waited at the entrance standing so stiff and proper. Brook’s carriage was second in line to be unpacked. She watched as the carriage ahead of her was attended to. My goodness they swarm like busy bees. Before she could generate another though, people and luggage were unpacked.

   Her carriage door opened. An ungloved hand awaited her. Brook gazed up to see Landon staring in at her. “Thank you,” she said.

   Once she was on the ground he leaned into her and said, “Yes well you’ve already sustained enough injuries today.”

   Brook’s eyes rolled. “For heaven sake Landon you act as if I am some rare delicate flower.”

   Her eyes caught his. “Who says you aren’t.” His stare was odd and Brook was captured in the moment. As much as she wanted to she could not pry her eyes from the way he seemed to be penetrating into her.

   “Some of us are on the verge of melting back here,” Grams shouted. She fanned herself vigorously with no satisfaction in sight. “Do take your moment elsewhere so the rest of us might exit the hot box.”

  Brook could not stop her lips from curling up at Landon’s long drawn out head turn in her direction.

   He took hold of Gram’s hand. “You are simply radiant, my moist muffin.”

   “My boy,” she found her footing on the ground. “There is nothing neither radiant nor desirable about a soggy muffin.”

   Landon began to pull Gram’s fingers from her glove until it was off then kiss her gently. “Oh mmm, I beg to differ. Aged to perfection.” He said while licking his lips.

  Grams burst in laughter. “You’ll nibble anything, my boy.” She caught his wink before she walked forward.

  Brook followed close behind her still smiling. Sarah was standing at the front door. “Oh is this not exciting?” She reached out for Brook’s hand. “I have never been in a home this grand before.”

  “And I thought Devon’s was large,” Brook added.

  Sarah’s head whipped towards her, “Since when did you start using his Christian name?”

  “Ah ladies I believe we should begin to find our chambers and start unpacking,” Richards interrupted.

  Grams gazed back at him with a suspicious eye. Richards ignored it and herded the woman into the estate.

  “Greeting! Welcome home.”

   Brook’s mouth fell open. Sarah shirked and turned into Grams. Richards muttered, “Oh dear lord.” And Grams said, “Hello Paul. I can see you are,” she gave him a look over, “doing well.”

   Paul stood with his hands on his naked hips with a larger than life grin about his sweet old face.

   Quinten dashed through them. “Uncle Paul where are your pants?”

   Paul looked at everyone like they were nuts. “On my body.”

   Quinten motioned for the butler to aid him. After Uncle Paul was removed Quinten turned to group in the doorway. “My apologies. He has seemed to have been slipping the last few years. My mother and father were supposed to take him on their trip but apparently changed their minds.”

   “Oh my dear it is not so bad. I think all of us can understand. I’ve known your uncle for years and happen to be very fond of him.”

   Quinten clenched his hands together. “I can promise all of you he is harmless. He just grows confused and forgets things often, is all.”

   Landon and Devon entered the door. By the look on everyone’s faces it was clear something had happened.

  “What did we miss?” Landon asked.

  “Two old plums and a pickle my dear boy,” Grams said as she walked to the candy dish full of sweets.

  “A what and a what?” Devon replied.

  “Uncle Paul,” Brook whispered.

  “I’ve never been so embarrassed before,” Sarah mumbled.

  Landon was beyond confused. Uncle Paul, two old plums, and a pickle?”

  “I’ll explain later for now let’s get these ladies upstairs and they can freshen up,” Richards stated.

  Brook stood admiring all the details she could take in. She followed everyone to the extra wide spiral stairs leading straight up all four floors. It was all so breathtakingly grand to take in.

  Quinten escorted his guests upstairs. Upon reaching the second floor he turned to everyone. “The ladies will stay on this floor. I have arranged for all your rooms to be in the same wing.”

  “I am speechless at the beauty of your home, Quinten.” Brook said. “I could see myself becoming lost easily. There are so many floors, wing, and rooms.”

  He smiled at her. “For me this is just home. I grew up here most of my years.”

  Sarah rubbed her hand along the rail of the staircase. “I am in love with all the woodwork.”

  “Well than I do believe you will be pleased with your room, Sarah,” Quinten said as he walked them down the hall to the left of the stairs.

  Brook was shown her room last. It was situated at the end of the hall with her door facing down the center of the hall. Quinten opened her door and before she could thank him he was called away.

  Cream and lush reds covered every space of the room. Gazing around Brook noticed the French doors. Oh I don’t believe this. Opening up the doors she gazed out over a colorful garden path leading to a pond. It looks like a painting. Walking out onto the beige stone she noted the white wicker outdoor furniture. Perfect place to read or have afternoon tea.

  A light knock sounded out from the room. Brook opened the door to a footman holding her bags. “My I?” he asked.

  Brook opened the door wider. “Thank you very much.” He left with a nod and a smile. The type of smile that said any time any place madam.

  She giggled to herself as she shut the door. A sigh slipped out as she gazed about the room. Her hand reached out and traced over the carved woodwork of the king sized canopy bed. Cream bedspread with red scrolls cradled the mattress. Fluffy pillows at the head board and a simple solid red pillow rest in the middle of them.

  I could not imagine a more perfect room. She climbed the steps up to the bed and allowed herself to fall back. Her body sunk into the bed. I may actually get a full night’s sleep here.

  “I was slightly worried about you climbing up into that bed yourself, Red.” Brook shot straight up. Landon was sitting in a chair directly across from her sipping a cup of tea.

 

Romantic Story

 

His Fingertips Trailed Down My...



   The warmth of his breath is hotter then the night's summer air around me. He here standing behind me, waiting for my response. What am I to say to such an offer? A lady would never reply yes, but a lady was not what he wanted. Within  me she is here somewhere. The woman who can be seductive, playful, and teasing, all while remaining in control of the passion growing inside for him that had been long lost. To not let him see this side is part of the game. But how am I to shield him from seeing it in my eyes?

   Remain standing with your back to him. He is but inches away. I hear nothing other than his long breaths waiting on me. What am I to do? I feel the soft spray of it drifting down over my neck. Closing my eyes I smell the strong scent of his essence all around me hanging in the air. I want to bury myself within it, within his arms, but I mustn't. He wants nothing more then just this night. I cannot possible do this.

   "Do you?" he whispers.

   I have forgotten the question. "Do I what?" She replies with a playful tone as she turns her head slightly over her right shoulder.

   "Do you want to know how I would seduce you? There is no harm in telling you. If then afterwards you desire me to show you, I may be persuaded to do so," He said in a low tone that was teasingly pushing against her bare neck. He watches her soft ringlets of hair move with his every breath onto her skin.

   Does she have any idea what her smile does to a man? Those lips. The way those long lashes of hers tantalize thoughts of the impurest kind. The visual image she provides while she walks about a room is...is nothing more than torturous. Hips slowly swaying. Delicate movements of her shoulders as she stands before me laughing.

   His finger moves up towards the back of her neck. She takes in a deep breath and he stops realizing she is not his to take. She is untouchable. Promised to another years before they had even met. He had nearly ruined her once and yet there was no one around to stop him from attempting it again. A foolish boys actions caused him to be banished. After all these years away she is the one thing he held to. The only desire he has never let go of. She and she alone is the sole reason for his return.

    "I think I must take my leave now." Her voice was barley a whisper in the dim lite room. She squeezed her eyes closed and prayed he would not persuade her otherwise and yet wished he would do nothing but take her.

   "You think? To me that sounds unsure."

   She hears only a hushed murmur of sound coming from him and then what followed was nothing more than the withhold of a forbidden touch as his fingertips trailed down her neck.
  
   The softness of his touch forces my body to acknowledge his absence as I lean into it. An unwilling motion to stop it renders me helpless underneath his spell. Strong firm fingertips caress my exposed skin tantalizing every sense within me. Slowly and teasingly, he draws out of me what has for so long laid dormant.

   Awakening is the woman I've never known. This stranger wants nothing more then to allow his desires to over take me. An unfamiliar feeling of freedom arises with a single stroke of his fingertip. A deep seeded addiction to the way his skin feels on mine is consuming my every thought. This erotic creature inside me is clawing her way out hidden in the depth of what I tried to deny.

   Lust, passion, and seduction plagues me with promises of fulfillment. As his fingertips trail down the back of my neck his wicked tongue lingers after it. Hot moist breath skims over past his lips to meet my bare neck acting as a hypnotic mist steadying my trembling body.

   I need salvation from this. I want release from his wicked graze across my naked skin. He draws out of me a panting that is tainted with sinful thoughts.

   His mouth taunts my flesh. His hands rip at my resistance. In a moment of surrender my clothing finds it's way to the floor. Puddled around my bare feet lay the only wall of safety I held. The woman who I thought to be so strange within me is now here. A heightened sense of passion is all I feel in this moment as the unwillingness to want him gives way to the buried desire for him, for his touch.

                                                          

To Be Continued

  




  

The Temptation of a Kiss ~ Chapter 4 and 5

 

Chapter 4

 

 

   Grams and Sarah gasped and the men chuckled. Landon then walked away.

   Brook sat on the ground for a moment in disbelief. “That was utterly childish Landon,” she shouted at him.

   Landon made his way to the bar. “We are all children Brook. Is that not what the good book states?”

   Brook rose from the floor and brushed out the silky purple material of her skirts. “I think you read from the bad book. The book called, “An idiot’s guide on how to live without manners”. In fact I think you wrote it.”

   Landon laughed hard. “Well don’t pout Brook. You lost and I won. If you didn’t want-

   “Stuff a map in it already Landon,” Brook snapped.

   Devon nudged Quentin and they both walked over to Landon at the bar. “Perhaps it will be safer in my study for a while. Besides I have to discuss something of importance with you,” Devon said.

   As the men left the room, Brook took a seat in a chair that faced Sarah and Grams. The two women were chit chatting away. Brook found herself lost in her own thoughts.

   What kind of a man does that to a woman? I was not the one to encourage the exchange between us. God he was so close. I wonder if he would have kissed me again if we were alone. His lips were so soft and warm that night. Firm but yet gentle. What would they feel like on my neck? I wanted him to-

   “Brook!” Grams shouted.

   Brook shook her head slightly. She then gazed at the two with a blank stare.

   Quentin started a fire in Devon’s study. Landon took a seat in a club chair next to the fireplace. Devon had excused himself for a moment to retrieve a document.

   “Is it now customary for you to drop beautiful woman on the floor?”

   Landon looked at Quentin. “She’ll be fine once she is done being cross with me.”

   Quentin sat down across from Landon. “I think she is going to hang you on one. That is not a woman I care to mess with.” Quentin paused then said, “She has interest in you. Clearly you can see that can you not.”

   “What gives you that impression?” Landon asked.

   “I see you both sharing an equal awareness with each other shall we say,” Quentin said.

   Devon just then entered the room. “I have a disquiet feeling concerning Lester McMay.” He handed Landon the letter McMay had addressed to Sarah before he escaped prison. “He was seen around town yesterday.”

   Two months ago, Devon never finished reading the letter from McMay.

   Landon began to read the letter aloud.

 

To my brother's child,

 

You have stolen what is rightfully mine by birthright. You should have died that night. Your last breath should have been done and gone like your father's and Devon's father was. They both paid for their mistakes with their lives and so will you Sarah.

I want what is mine. All of you will suffer. I will make you watch me kill everyone whom you dragged into this. And in the end, when you are alone surrounded by your dead friends, I will kill you slowly as I did your father.

He died by my hands and so will you Sarah. I will hunt you, follow you, and seek you until I find you. You will forever as long as breath moves through your body, look over your shoulder.

Upon the birth of your first child, I will take it. You may never close your eyes at night and not see me there Sarah. You, your child, Devon and everyone else are all going to die.

 

   Landon looked towards Devon. “What are we to do with the women while the authorities search for him?”

   Devon ran his hand threw his hair. “It concerns me to be honest with you and I do not know what we are to do. The letter targets everyone. None of the women are safe with McMay at large.”

   “If I may offer a solution,” Quentin said. “I had invited the women earlier this night to visit my country estate. McMay, I assume, has no knowledge of me.”

   Devon and Landon looked to one another and smiled. Landon said, “We accept.”

 © copyright 2012

  

Chapter 5

 

   Grams and Sarah stared at Brook waiting for her answer.

   “My dear child are you alright?” Grams asked.

   Brook’s expression was blank. “I am fine.” She stood quickly and crossed the room to the bar and poured herself a glass of wine.

   Sarah cleared her throat. “We were wondering if you care to have a picnic with us tomorrow in the orchards. We could have some games and contests for the men.”

   “Yes that sounds lovely,” Brook said. A picnic with Landon. I will find an excuse tomorrow not to go. Maybe I could plant the seed I am beginning not to feel well before I leave tonight.

   Richards entered the room and walked over to Sarah. He held out a silver try in front of her with a pill and a small glass of water. “Lady Sarah it is time for your medicine.”

   Sarah gazed up at him with confusion in her eyes. “I feel fine Richards.”

   Richards gazed at her for a brief moment than said, “Very well Lady Sarah.” As he left his gaze locked with Gram’s gaze.

 

 

   Devon grabbed a road map and laid it out across his desk. Landon and Quentin planed out the route to his country estate. Devon walked over to the painting of a ship at sea hanging on the wall behind them. He pulled the painting open like a door. Behind it was a safe set inside the wall. Devon pulled out four guns and set them on top of the map in front of the men.

   Quentin glanced at Devon. “Are these truly necessary?”

Landon picked up one of the smaller guns. “You did not see Sarah when Devon found her in the cellar of McMay’s estate. I have never seen such-

   Landon immediately shut his mouth when he saw Devon’s painful expression in his eyes as he was telling Quentin the story.

   Quentin looked back and forth to Landon and Devon. “Why do we not just hunt him down ourselves? From what you have said he is broke and wanted. It shouldn’t be that hard to find him. We have enough resources between the three of us.”

   Landon said, “It is not that simple Quentin. I wish it were. He has many bad friends and contacts. The women are not safe with anyone but us. This man will stop at nothing to fulfill his goal.”

   A knock at the door drew their attention. Landon pulled the map over the pile of guns.

   “Enter,” Devon shouted.

   Richards opened the door holding a silver tray.

   Devon looked relieved at the sight of him. “I was about to fetch you. We are planning to go for a trip in the country and needed to get organized concerning McMay.”

   “Ah I see Sir.” Richards looked serious. In a low hushed tone he said, “I need a moment alone with you.”

   Devon walked with Richards into the hallway. He glanced down at the tray. “Again?” He looked at Richards after he asked.

   “I’m afraid so Sir.”

   Devon took the tray from Richards’s hands and walked down the hallway to where Sarah was sitting. He left the tray on a side table outside the room.

   “Sarah,” Devon said softly in the doorway to the sitting room.

   She turned and smiled at him. “Yes.”

   “May I have a private minute with you?”

   Sarah stood and walked toward Devon at the doorway. “What is it Lord Price?”

   Devon pinched his lips together at her use of his proper name. Since the attack by her uncle’s assistant, Sarah’s memory was missing large gaps of time, including the fact they fell in love and were now engaged.

   He gently took her hand in his and walked a few steps back into the hallway. He gazed at her with kind sweet eyes and in a soft voice said, “Sarah you have to take your medicine every day.”

   “I-I do not need medicine Lord-

   “Sarah we are engaged and you had an accident. Because you were hurt you now have to take this medicine,” Devon said.

   She stared at him trying to figure out what was going on. And then it sparked. Tears began to whelm up in her eyes. “How could I not remember this Dev? You, us, the accident?”

   Devon took her in his arms and whispered, “You will sweetheart. It is just going to take some time.” He pulled her away from him and smiled. “Now take this before you forget again.”

   “That is not funny Dev,” Sarah said as she rolled her eyes.

   He handed her the pill and water with a smile. “Yes it was and so are you.” He kissed her head.

 

 

   Brook took a seat across from Grams in a chair. She sipped her wine and then downed the rest in her glass. Grams chuckled at her.

   “What seems to be troubling you Brook?”

   “I am fine really,” Brook said with a smile.

   Grams smiled back. “So you have said but your face tells a different story my child.” She leaned forward and continued, “It has been my experience that when a boy is unkind to a girl it is for no other reason than he likes her. And from the way he stares at you my love…I would say very much so at that.”

   Brook looked away from her. “We are merely friends Grams and neither of us care to be anything more.” Brook wished Grams words did not bother her as much as they did. She had no idea what he felt for her. He kissed her and both of them acted like it had never happened. If she was to be truly honest with herself, she wished that kiss had lasted longer. Even worse, she wished he would kiss her again.

   Brook stood up and poured another glass of wine from the bar. Sarah came back into the room. Brook was relieved hearing Grams quickly engage in conversation with Sarah.

  

 

   Quentin handed Landon back the gun. “I have no need for this Landon.”

   “I’m aware you are not fond of guns but it may come to the point where it is necessary to use one. Just hold onto it. No one is saying you should use it,” Landon said.

   Quentin smirked at Landon. “Then I have no need to carry one to begin with my friend.” He slid the gun across the map to Landon. “A simple stick can be just as deadly as a gun…and much quieter.”

   Landon laughed. “This is true Quent. I believe you could make a weapon out of a mushroom.”

   Quentin patted Landon’s back. “Only if it were poisonous.”

   Devon entered the room and walked over to his desk. He pulled out a book and jotted down something in it and put it away quickly. “I was thinking we should pare up into three groups when we go to Quent’s estate. That way if we are followed it may be easier to lose them.”

   Quentin shook his head. “It has been my experience that there is safety in numbers Devon.”

   “I agree,” Landon said. “If we split up there is a danger of only one of the carriages being pursued. Our strength is in our numbers. We must stay together Devon.”

   “I would have to agree as well Sir,” Richards said.

   Devon turned away and walked to the fire place resting his palms on the ledge. After a moment he said, “I want to make it clear to everyone in this room that if I get the chance to kill McMay I will.”

   Landon walked over to Devon and placed his hand on Devon’s shoulder and said, “Do not think for a moment that I will not do the same Devon. We…you nearly lost Sarah at the hands of that man and his assistant.”

   Devon gazed at Landon and the look in his eyes was unsettling to him. He saw pain. A deep pain coming from somewhere in his friend and in that moment he understood that he did not know of the love Devon carried for Sarah. He did respect it though and for that reason alone he would do whatever needed to be done for him.

  

 

   Still standing at the bar top with her back to the women Brook was now on her fourth glass of wine. She had decided she was not going to turn around until it was requested of her to do so. She quietly slid on top of a bar stool.

   Brook closed her eyes tight and drank another full glass without hesitation. An image of Landon’s smile flashed in her mind. The low devilish sound of his words of promised wickedness rang in her head. So vivid and real she shuttered from the sound. Brook squeezed her eyes shut tighter. “Get out of my head,” she mumbled.

   “Who?”

   “You. Now go away already,” Brook answered softly out loud.

   “What is it exactly am I doing in there and I want details Red,” Landon said in a low hushed tone in her ear.

   Brook’s eyes flew open. Oh dear god. Panic began to wash over her.

   Quentin walked over to Landon. “I was wondering where you had run off to. I thought I might find you here.” He glanced over at Brook.

   Landon did not move his gaze from Brook and she remained staring straight forward at the shelves full of bottles lining the wall behind the bar. “Quent I seem to be here there and everywhere at the moment. Would you not agree Brook?”

   “Quentin my boy. Come tell us of your estate. It has been years since my last visit,” Grams asked.

   Quentin walked away leaving Brook and Landon to their acquired moment.

   She took the bottle of wine and emptied the remainder of it into her glass and drank half of it.

   “Thirsty are we Red? Perhaps I shall join you and you can fill me in on what I’m doing inside your pretty little Irish head.” Landon poured himself a splash of scotch. He lifted the glass over to Brook’s and clanged them together.

   She refused to make eye contact with him. Could someone die of embarrassment? She wanted to slither away in a corner and disappear. The room was growing warm and she needed fresh air. Brook picked up her glass of wine. She slid herself off the bar stool but when her feet hit the floor her legs felt like wet noodles. Her body spun around and landed in the arms of Landon.

   He could see she was flush. Brook grabbed his shoulders and her glass went tumbling to the floor.

   “Are you alright?” he asked. His hands were around her waist holding her with a tight grip.

   Brook shook her head as she gazed up into his deep green eyes. She found herself leaning in a little closer to him. The warmth of his breath drew her closer and then closer.

   Landon closed the gap between their lips and kissed her. He did it without thinking. The way she was looking at him captivated his every thought. It was his only thought. Her lips were so close.

   Brook felt the room begin to spin. She squeezed Landon’s shoulders harder. The kiss was brief as Brook pulled away from him. “I don’t feel very well Landon.

  He opened his eyes and she looked of a greenish color. “Brook are you going to be-

   Brook shook her head yes and Landon grabbed the ice bucket and dumped it on the floor with force. As soon as he handed it to Brook she used it right there.

   The loud noise from Brook’s activity caused everyone in the room to turn.

   Brook knelt to the floor and Landon stood by next to her. “Do we have another bucket? This one seems to be filling up quickly,” he asked. He bent down and took up Brook’s hair for her.

   Grams sent Sarah for some water and a few rags. “Oh the poor dear. It sounds painful. Do you think her to be sick with a bug?”

   “I think she was enjoying her wine tonight is all,” Quentin said.

   “Perhaps all of you would like to regather in a different location for the evening,” Landon said over Brook’s vocal activity.

   Grams stood up. “Yes I would agree that is best. If you need us we will not be far my boy.”

   As the group was leaving Richards entered the room with a few supplies and placed them next to Landon. “When you are able to move her Sir I will have a room ready for her in the east wing of the house. It will be the chamber at the end of the hall on the second floor. No one is in that wing so she may have her privacy. Shall I call for a maid Sir?”

   “Yes that will be good Richards,” Landon said.

   “I will have two waiting in her chamber Sir,” Richards said.

   After another minute Brook lifted her head out of the bucket. Landon gently wiped her face with the cool water. She had no color in her face at all.

   “I’m so sorry,” she whispered to him.

   “Do not think anything of it. I myself have had many nights like this very one,” he said.

   Brook closed her eyes and fell backward to the floor. Landon picked her up and carried her to the chamber on the second floor at the end of the hall. He laid her on the bed and the two maids began to remove her shoes.

   “I will be outside the door when you are finished,” Landon said.

   One of them said, “It will be a bit Sir. We have to clean her up.”

   Landon gave the woman a quick nod and shut the door behind him as he left.

   He strolled up and down the long hallway. It was dim with only a single candle on the table next to Brook’s room.

   Landon started to replay the moment in his mind before Brook had kissed him. The way she had gazed into his eyes was no way any other woman had before. He wanted to somehow feel the way she was looking at him. But what was it exactly? Desire to be kissed? A feeling of fascination? No it was something else entirely. He did not understand it; he only knew he had felt it.

   Perhaps it was the wine? She did have a lot. Although she was not laughing as most women do when they were in their drink.  She was staring. She was waiting. She was speaking to me with her eyes. Those gray blue beautiful eyes. She didn’t blink. She had parted her lips slightly as she had leaned in closer.

   “Sir,” the maid said.

   The sudden sound of her voice startled Landon and he whipped around. He walked to the doorway of her room.

   “Will you need us further tonight Sir?”

   Landon said to them both. “No I will handle it from here.” He entered the room and shut the door behind him. She was laid out in the bed with the covers up to her neck.

 © copyright 2012

 

Chapter 1   Chapter 2   Chapter 3


Chapters 4 and 5


Chapter 6   Chapter 7  


Chapters 8 and 9


Chapter 10

The Temptation of a Kiss ~ Chapter 2

 

Chapter 2

 

6 weeks earlier

 

   Brook sat quiet and wide eyed as she listened to Grams tell Lady Croft to mind her own business. The sudden question coming from Lady Croft to Sarah concerning Devon and Sarah’s scandal had sent Grams into the most vicious sharp-tongued frenzy.

   “I shall quickly remind you of your own daughter’s scandalous marriage to the father of her child, which is in question though out town.”

   Lady Croft placed her hand at her chest and said, “I assure you and the rest of the ton, the marriage is honorable and sound, as is their child.”

   Grams remained seated and said, “Yes well, I highly doubt that. Any young woman would most certainly not jump between the sheets with that bumbling idiot, unless she was already with child.”

   Lady Croft gasped at Grams frankness.

   “Oh shut your mouth Able. You and I are no fools and for that reason alone, I dare say it is best to keep to your own business. Roomers coming from the right source can be very damaging to one’s reputation,” Grams said.

   Lady Croft then walked away without another word to Sarah or Grams.

   Grams took Sarah’s hand in her own and whispered to both her and Brook, “Direct and to the point is the best way to handle these upright gossipy woman.”

   Brook smiled at how bold Grams remained even in public. She was use to it at the Price Estate. Grams never shied away from voicing neither her thoughts nor opinions. Brook secretly questioned whether they were related somehow.

   Sarah turned to Grams and said, “I have given thought to remaining with Lady Wilcox until my marriage. It is creating a scandal with Devon and me dwelling under the same roof.”

   Grams said, “Do you honestly give weight to the tons judgment of you Sarah?”

   Sarah smiled. “No I do not. My fear is for the family.”

   “Well fear not my child. I can assure you, Devon nor do I care one bit what is said. Let them talk,” Grams said.

   Brook giggled. “Touché Grams!” Brook agreed with her.

   “Touché? I am frightened to ask to what.”

   The Ladies all looked up to see a tall young man with brown hair and large brown eyes standing before them.

   Grams burst out, “Oh my dear Quentin! I dare ask how you have been my boy.”

   Quentin smiled and said, “Quit well thank you. When I saw you I had hoped to see Devon close by.”

   “He will be along shortly. It has had to have been five years since I last set eyes upon you,” Grams said.

   “That sounds about right. The military keeps me moving often. I hold many regrets for not keeping in contact with you.”

   “Yes, well, all is forgiven, now sit down. I would like to introduce Brook O’Brien and Sarah McMay, Devon’s wife to be,” Grams said. “Ladies this is Quentin Alexander an old dear friend of Devon and Landon’s.”

   Quentin took each of their hands and kissed them after bowing of course. He then took a seat next to Brook on Grams left. The group remained silent for a short while. Brook noticed Sarah was fidgeting. Brook slowly covered her hand over both of Sarah’s in her lap. Brook continued looking forward and smiled softly. She knew Sarah had looked to her.

   “I must confess that I was under the impression Lady Brook was to marry Devon.” Quentin moved his gaze to Brook. “Landon had spoken so often of you I assumed it was to be you,” Quentin said.

   Brook did not look at him at first. “I suppose one will always draw an incorrect notion when one assumes. Next time it may serve you better to ask of things you do not know.”

   Quentin chuckled. “My intension was not to offend you Lady Brook. I happen to be merely stating-

   Brook’s gaze flew to him. “Offend? I dare say Sir, you are full of assumptions.” She could feel Sarah squeezing her fingers tightly. “I suppose you are now going to assume Landon and I hold interest in one another?”

   Quentin began to say, “Well-

   “Well let me assure you, we do not. And further more we are friends is all,” Brook said.

   Quentin cleared his throat. “Would you care to dance Lady Brook?” He stood up in front of her.

   “Yes, yes I would,” Brook said quickly. She suddenly grew uncomfortable at the mention of Landon. Quentin’s offer was the perfect excuse to remove herself from the group. Feeling her cheeks grow warm she had to do something.

   Quentin held out his hand for Brook and gave Sarah a quick wink. Sarah drew her eyebrows together in confusion with his intentions.

   As they approached the dance area Brook said, “I apologize for my quick words with you Sir Quentin. We had been discussing the affects of one who gossips about others.”

   “Quite understandable Lady Brook. Your advice was well taken and I do promise to be more careful in the future,” Quentin said.

   Brook smiled and laughed slightly.

   “He was right,” Quentin said.

   “Who was right?” Brook asked.

   “Landon. He told me your smile could change the mood of a room. And that your laugh was contagious,” Quentin said.

   Brook’s expression held but her mind was racing. I wonder what else Landon had to say about me and why, why was he speaking about me?

   “Are there any warnings before we begin?” Quentin asked.

   Brook smiled and said, “I favor most men’s left feet, but if you prefer for me to step on your right, I will make an effort towards it.”

   Quentin chuckled. “No, the left is fine with me Lady Brook. Am I allowed to lead or will it be a case of you decide as we dance?”

   At that moment, the music began. Brook smiled devilishly at him and said, “I think I shall surprise you Sir Quentin.” She placed her hand in his. “Did Landon tell you I dance like a mule on ice?”

   Quentin reframed from smiling at her chose of words. “He actually said you were flawless. That is why I was teasing you.”

   “I suppose he did not happen to mention I have only danced with him. I do not attend balls on a regular basis. Grams had us practice to refresh my memory, but other than that, nothing,” Brook said.

   Quentin began to move with Brook. “Well you seem to be doing outstanding thus far.”

   Brook was looking down at her feet. As she did, she stepped on Quentin’s right foot and then bumped her head into his when she looked down again.

   “I am sorry,” Brook said.

   “We agreed it would be my left foot, remember?” Quentin said. “Relax and allow me to guide you. It will not help if you keep staring at your own feet.”

   Brook gazed up to Quentin and said, “I have forgotten all the steps. Perhaps it is better if you just escort me back to Grams and Sarah.”

   “Nonsense you can do this,” Quentin said as he smiled at her.

   Landon and Devon approached Sarah and Grams. Devon took a seat next to Sarah. He gave her a long kiss on the cheek and then whispered something in her ear, which caused her to blush.

   “Where is Brook?” Landon asked.

   “Dancing my dear boy with your friend Quentin,” Grams said and then giggled.

   Landon looked towards the dance area to see Quentin trying to dance with Brook. “What are they doing?”

   “I am not certain. Perhaps they are both attempting to lead,” Grams said.

   The group and everyone else in the ton watched as Brook repeatedly stepped on Quentin’s feet and a few other peoples’ in close proximity.

   Brook crashed into Lady Marcy Croft when Quentin said go to the right and Brook moved left. Lady Croft glared at her fiercely with disgust. Brook immediately offered an apology. Lady Croft did not respond. She just scowled at Brook.

   Brook released her hand from Quentin’s and started to move towards Lady Croft.

   Landon stepped in front of Brook’s path right as she was going to come face to face with Lady Croft. “Good evening Red.” Landon scooped up Brook’s hand and placed his other hand about her waist. “OK, here we go and one, two, three.” Landon gave Quentin the ok to leave.

   Quentin smiled and left to join the others.

   Brook and Landon finished the dance flawlessly. Neither of them spoke as they gazed into one another’s eyes. After the music had ceased, Brook went to leave the dance area.

   Landon took a hold of her hand and pulled her back to him. “I believe I was cheated out of a dance, Red.”

   Brook said nothing as the music began again. He drew her close to his body. She could not turn away from his gaze on her.

   Landon gave Brook’s hand a small squeeze and he watched Brook’s lips part slightly. The rush of the memory of their kiss a month ago flooded his mind. He still remembered how soft her lips were. The taste of her mouth on his. Somehow, every time he thought of the kiss, it felt as though it had just happened. You are trouble wrapped up in a voluptuous fiery red package. I find myself wanting to get into trouble right now. Why do your eyes always say yes to me? It would be far more helpful if they offered some kind of resistance instead of agreeing with my every devilish thought. Landon did not move his gaze but he did clear his thought the best he could.

   Quentin took a seat next to Grams on the chaise lounge. Grams patted his leg and said, “Do tell us where you have been hiding.”

   “I have just returned from China. At present time, I am on leave for three months. I suppose you have all heard of my sister’s passing?” Quentin said.

   Devon said, “We did and are truly sorry. Theresa will be missed. How is your mother holding up?”

   “She is not dealing with it well. I was told the first two weeks she did not leave Theresa’s bedchamber,” Quentin said.

   “Oh dear,” Sarah said.

   Quentin looked to Grams and said, “I was also told you and Lady Wilcox were the ones to get her to immerge from it.” He took up Grams hand and kissed it. “I do not know how I will be able to repay you for your kind friendship to my mother.”

   “My dear boy I care very deeply for your mother. She did the very same for me when I lost Roy, Devon’s father. As her and I had done the same when Clare, when Sarah’s mother passed,” Grams said.

   “You had?” Sarah asked.

   “Yes we did Sarah. I know Lady Wilcox is your Mother’s aunt, but she had raised her as a daughter,” Grams said.

   “I never knew that,” Sarah said.

   “Yes well enough sad stories. I shall like to invite everyone to my country estate next week,” Quentin said.

   “My boy, we could all use a change of scenery. Who else is to attend?

   The music ended and Landon held Brook in his embrace a several counts longer than needed. Brook let him and did not pull away. He finally slowly released her hand from his and felt Brook’s hand begin to slide out of his hand. Instinctively he squeezed her hand at the last second before it slipped away completely. Landon gently rubbed Brook’s finger tips with his. The dance area was now empty and all eyes were upon them. Lord knows how long they had been standing there like that. For them, time did not exist. A sudden high pitched shriek came from one of the violins. Landon blinked out of his trance as did Brook.

   Brook felt a rush of air leave her lungs as Landon released her fingers. She didn’t want him to let go. The comfort of his embrace felt warm and right to her. She smiled up to him trying to hide her own thoughts from him as if he could read her mind. Which at times she believed he could. He always seemed to know what she was going to do or say before she did.

   Landon smiled then bowed. “Shall we, Red?” He held out his arm in the direction of the group.

   “I am not certain when you began to call me Red, but I do not care for it.”

   As she walked past him, Landon said to her back, “But I do.” He could hear Brook’s soft giggle. Her tone was deep and seductive sounding. Flirtatious even.

   “Hello Landon,” Marcy Croft said as she stepped in front of their path. She looked at Brook and said, “I was relieved to see you figured out which of your feet are left and right.”

   Brook glared at Marcy with pure hate. “Yes, well your bottom seemed to occupy most of the space around me. It was hard to view my feet.”

   Marcy threw her head back and gave Brook a mocking laugh.

   “Please excuse us Lady Croft we have friends waiting for us,” Landon said.

   “Oh, I see. Now it is Lady Croft?” Marcy said.

   Landon took Brook by the arm and led her away from Marcy.

   “What did she mean by that?” Brook asked.

    “She is always jealous of new woman to the ton and does her best to intimidate them. Pay her no attention no matter what she says to you,” Landon said. Beats of sweat were forming on his forehead.

   As they arrived at the group, Landon offered to get everyone a drink. Quentin stood and said he would assist him.

   As they walked far enough away from the group Quentin said, “Brook is more amazing than you had led on. Irish tongue does not do her justice from the way you had described it.”

   Landon laughed. “Yes well Brook is hard to describe with mere words.”

   “If you were hoping we might hit it off, I have to be honest and tell you, she is too much to handle. As entertaining as she is, I would be tongue tied with her every statement. She is more your type than mine Landon.”

   Landon stopped and said, “I do not believe she is. Brook is a friend Quentin.”

   Quentin smiled and said, “I was only pointing out that-

   “Well don’t because you are wrong,” Landon snapped at him. “I am going to get the punch now.”

   “I will get the drinks from…the bar.” Before he had a chance to finish his sentence Landon had walked away.

   While Landon poured the punch into the three cups, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned slightly to see who it was. Good God I wish you would find yourself kidnapped woman.

   “So, do tell me Landon, are you in the habit of slumming now?” Marcy asked.

   “Marcy why do you always have to be so unpleasant? It is as if you aim to be malicious every morning when your feet hit the floor.”

   Marcy turned her head away from Landon and gazed out over the crowd. “Perhaps I am plain-spoken and blunt with my words.” She crossed her arms over her stomach. “It is what makes me who I am.”

   “Cruel, unkind, and wretched is what makes you, you,” Landon said. He started to walk away from her.

   Marcy hollered out a little too loud, “I propose your new friend does not know all about you Lord…Charming.”

   Landon turned back and faced her. “I am sorry you are hurt but that gives you no right to hurt others around you. Stay away from her Marcy.”

   “Why, because you don’t want her to know the truth about us?”

   “And what truth might that be Marcy? The truth that being this close to you draws up feeling of repugnance or nausea?” Landon said in a hard whisper.

   Marcy glared at him and narrowed her eyes. “The truth about the broken engagement and our baby Landon.”

© copyright 2012

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Chapter 6   Chapter 7

Chapter 8 and 9

Chapter 10