One Wanton Wager Read online

  “That isn’t necessary.” She took Henry’s hand. “Come along.”

  The boy’s smile fell, but he did not resist as she started walking toward the keep.

  “Wait,” Alex called after them.

  Daphne’s spine stiffened and she looked back at him.

  “It really wouldn’t be any trouble and Camden is nearby as well.” Alex nodded across the bailey to where Camden stood. “If you do not trust me, surely you trust Henry’s uncle.”

  Henry tugged at her skirt. “Please, Mama? I would be dreadfully bored in there.” He gave an impish smile. “And I have missed Uncle Camden fiercely. I promise to behave.”

  Daphne nibbled her lower lip as she spared another look in Camden’s direction.

  “Please, Mama,” Henry begged.

  She released her lip and gave a sigh. “Very well, but stay away from the outbuildings. They are not at all safe.” She peered at Alex for a heartbeat before adding, “And mind the adults.”

  Henry threw his arms around her legs for a brief hug. “I will, I promise. Thank you, Mama.”

  She ruffled his hair. “You’re welcome.”

  Alex could not stop himself from staring after her as she strolled across the bailey toward the keep. Her muslin skirts draped her hips and bottom as they flowed around her long legs giving teasing glimpses of the feminine form they concealed. The woman was a temptress, though he doubted she knew it. Another thing he determined to rectify.

  “I don’t think Mama likes you very much.”

  Alex turned to Henry. “Perhaps not, but I suspect that isn’t the case at all.”

  A look of confusion swept across the lad’s face. “Why do you say that?”

  “Ask me again when you are older.” Alex winked. “For now, let us get to work.”

  Henry followed Alex as he returned to inspecting the wall. “How much older?”

  Alex chuckled at the boy’s tenacity. “Perhaps when you are old enough to go away to school.”

  The boy’s shoulders slumped. “Mama says she will find the money to send me to Eton, but I don’t think she can.”

  Alex rubbed his hand over his jaw as he absorbed this new information. It seemed odd to him that Daphne should have to fret over sending her son to school. She was a lady after all, and from a prominent family. Did her husband not plan for their future? Even if he failed to provide for them, wouldn’t the boy’s grandparents step in to see to his needs if not hers? He smiled at Henry. “Surely Lord Chesterfield will see to your education.”

  Henry shook his head, his sandy-brown hair brushing across his forehead. “Mama says Grandpa and Grandma have done more than enough for us. It’s not fair to keep accepting their charity.”

  “Nonsense. They are your family,” Alex said.

  The boy’s blue eyes seemed to mature as Alex watched him.

  “Perhaps, but Mama is determined to make our own way.” Henry averted his gaze and when he returned it to Alex, a spark lit the blue of his irises. “Perhaps if I work hard today you can pay me?”

  “I would have insisted.” Alex reached out and ruffled the boy’s hair. In truth, he never would have thought about doing so if Henry hadn’t suggested it, but he’d be happy to pay him all the same. Unfortunately, he could not pay him enough to solve Daphne’s problem—not without her calling it charity and tossing the funds back in his face.

  An idea began forming in his mind. One that would allow them all to gain what they needed—or in his case, wanted.

  “Are you going to give me instructions?” Henry’s voice broke through Alex’s thoughts. “Or are we going to stand idle all day?”

  A deep chuckle raked Alex at the imp’s tactics and he determined he rather liked the little imp. It would be his honor to assist Henry in any way he could.

  Henry folded his arms over his chest, then glanced at the wall Alex had been working by. “Is Uncle Camden planning to knock it down?”

  “No.” Alex placed a hand on Henry’s shoulder. “He’s going to make it a great fortress.”

  A wide smile spread over the boy’s lips. “Babylon is already great.”

  “Well, your uncle is going to make it even better.”

  “If you say so.” Henry arched one brow, skepticism shining in his gaze.

  Alex pointed to a spot where the sandstone wall was giving way to time. “Our job is to find the weak spots.”

  “Can you keep a secret, Alex?” Henry asked with mischief in his gaze.

  “On my honor, I can.”

  Henry seemed to be taking his measure as he stared into Alex’s eyes. Then he spoke in a low voice. “I have often snuck over here to play. I can show you where all of the crumbling bits are.”

  Alex was struck by how much Henry reminded him of himself as a boy. Innocent and trusting with a propensity for mischief. If he had a heart, the lad would no doubt warm his way into it, and perhaps his mother would as well.

  Chapter Three

  Daphne relaxed a fraction as Miss Nevelton disappeared through the arched doorway. It had been an exceedingly long afternoon. She had done her best to focus her attention on the interviews but, much to her dismay, her mind kept roaming. Even now, thoughts of the rogue were swimming in her head, causing her blood to warm and irritation to peak in equal measures. She sighed and tipped her head back, closing her eyes for a moment.

  Rebecca said, “I believe that was our last interview. Now we need only decide which of the candidates to hire.”

  “They all seem qualified, but that Mr. Harvel stood out. I think he would make a wonderful butler.” Phoebe moved to the tea tray where she began to pour them each a cup.

  As Daphne watched Phoebe add a lump of sugar then a splash of milk, she could not help but wonder how Lord Bedford took his tea. Probably with whiskey, she mused, a grin tilting her lips.

  “Daphne, do you agree?” Rebecca asked, cutting into her thoughts.

  Drat! She’d been woolgathering again and hadn’t the slightest idea what Rebecca was referring to. Daphne smoothed her skirt, reluctant to admit she hadn’t been paying attention.

  Phoebe approached and handed her a teacup. “Of course you do, right?”

  Daphne released a pent-up breath. “I must confess that I was not paying attention.”

  “You have been distracted ever since you arrived this morning. What has you so addlebrained?” Rebecca took a sip from her teacup while she watched Daphne through curious eyes.

  Phoebe tilted her head a fraction. “I noticed it as well, but you’re wrong. She’s been woolgathering ever since you arrived at Babylon.” She turned equally curious eyes on Daphne. “Do tell us what’s going on.”

  “Oh, very well.” Daphne slumped back on the sofa, defeated. She should have known the pair of them would notice something off and press her about it. After all, they were sisters, even if only by marriage. Still, she found it hard to put her distraction into words.

  “I’ve got it.” Phoebe leaned forward. “It’s Alex, isn’t it?”

  Embarrassment warmed Daphne’s cheeks. Rather than confess, she turned her frustration on Rebecca. “Why did you warn him away from Phoebe but not pay me the same kindness?”

  “Whatever do you mean? Phoebe is a debutante and far too young for him. I did not want him to charm her into false hopes.”

  “But you have no concerns that he might do that very thing to me?” Daphne asked, her tone accusatory.

  Rebecca waved a hand, the corners of her lips tilting up. “You are far wiser and have experience as well.”

  “Indeed, enough to know that I want nothing to do with a bothersome rake.” Daphne notched her chin.

  “Not even an extraordinarily handsome one?” Phoebe arched a chestnut eyebrow, her hazel eyes twinkling.

  “Most certainly not,” Daphne said. Hoping to end the ridiculous conversation, she lifted her teacup for a sip.

  “Well, I believe he would make a wonderful husband,” Rebecca said.

  Daphne choked, nearly spit her tea across
the solar. “You cannot be serious.”

  “Oh, but I am.” Rebecca slid closer. “He’s wealthy and titled. Not to mention handsome. He’s not given to excessive drink nor does he gamble overmuch.”

  “You forgot to mention that he is completely lacking of morals,” Daphne said.

  Rebecca shook her head, blond curls bouncing with the movement. “That isn’t true. You should see the way Alex is with his family. He’s generous beyond belief and very protective of them. There is nothing he wouldn’t do for the people he loves.”

  Daphne set her teacup down. “Be that as it may, he’s a rogue. Not the marrying type.”

  “She has a point. They do call him the connoisseur of women.” Phoebe grinned.

  Rebecca waved a dismissive hand. “Many a rogue has changed his ways after marriage. I wholeheartedly believe Alex will as well.”

  Phoebe’s gaze softened and she released a wistful sigh. “I’ve heard they make the best husbands.”

  Daphne huffed. “Utter nonsense, I’m sure. If any woman ever brings Lord Bedford to heel, she’ll come to regret it when he strays from the marriage bed. A man like him is incapable of fidelity.”

  “You are completely wrong about him and I pray you come to realize as much.” Rebecca reached out and patted Daphne’s hand. “Regardless, I will leave the topic alone for now.”

  A small blessing to be sure for Daphne had no desire to continue the conversation. The last thing she needed was to have such romantic notions placed in her mind. As it were, she found herself far too attracted to the man. If she dared to allow herself to see some good in him, she may well forget herself and do something foolish.

  The sort of thing she could ill afford to allow.

  No, she would stay clear of the regrettably handsome rogue and find herself an upstanding husband as soon as possible. Henry’s future depended on such an outcome and she’d not let her son down.

  Chapter Four

  Alex had not laid eyes on Daphne in days. He knew she’d been to Babylon to see Rebecca, but she always seemed to sneak past him. He’d wager she’d done so on purpose.

  A fact that grated on his nerves.

  But she’d not manage to evade him today. Rebecca let it be known that Daphne was to join her for a trip into Manchester and Alex promptly agreed to accompany them. He handed Rebecca up, then climbed into the carriage and settled on the seat across from her. With a grin, he tapped on the roof signaling their driver.

  Alex grinned as the carriage jerked into motion. He could hardly wait to see the look on Daphne’s face when she joined them. Would it be shock, anger, annoyance…perhaps pleasure? Regardless, he would revel in her reaction.

  “You appear to be in high spirits. May I inquire as to what has you glowing?”

  “Men do not glow,” Alex countered, but could not keep his grin from spreading.

  Rebecca laughed. “Well, you most certainly are. I must admit to being quite curious as you’ve been in such a dour mood of late. Of course, it’s wonderful to see you smile, but I am most interested to know what has caused your sudden change of temperament.”

  “I’m in a pleasant mood is all. The sun is shining, birds chirping, and there’s a gentle breeze. Add to that how well the work at the castle is progressing and the fact that I slept in a real bed for the first time in a sennight and what reason should I have to be sour?” Alex asked.

  “Now, you sound like a poet.” Rebecca arched a golden eyebrow. “I am pleased to have the new furniture as well, but I doubt very much it is the sole cause of your happiness.”

  She tapped a glove-covered finger to her jaw as she studied him.

  Alex braced himself, afraid of what she might say next and unwilling to share the truth with her. He schooled his expression into one of cool indifference.

  Her blue eyes brightened with merriment. “Might Daphne have something to do with your sudden change of mood?”

  “Get those fanciful notions out of your head. I told you a long time ago that I have no desire to be matched and even less to be wed.” Alex crossed his legs at the ankles and leaned back, dismissing her theory.

  Rebecca’s grin brightened a fraction but she said no more. She studied him for a moment before turning her head to watch out the window. The carriage slowed then swayed as it turned toward Daphne’s home.

  Alex did his best to appear bored as the carriage continued up the gravel drive. He did not want to feed into Rebecca’s notions for the last thing he needed was her playing matchmaker. He’d determined years ago not to wed and he had no plans of altering his decision.

  The carriage bounced and swayed before coming to a stop in front of the Chesterfields’ home. Alex sat up straighter and smoothed his cravat as the coachman opened the door.

  A moment later, Daphne entered the conveyance. When her gaze landed on him, her eyes widened a fraction before she gave a contrived smile.

  “Good morning, Daphne.” Alex gave a rakish grin, finding some pleasure in the way he’d shocked her.

  Recovering herself, Daphne settled on the seat beside Rebecca and pasted a smile on her bow-shaped lips. “Good morning, my lord.” She turned to Rebecca. “I was not aware that Lord Bedford would be accompanying us.”

  Rebecca fairly glowed as she glanced between them. It was as if she knew something—a secret—they were not privy to. “Did I forget to mention it? I’m sorry.” She smiled sweetly, her countenance all innocence and sweetness.

  The trio in the carriage remained silent for the remainder of their journey, but Alex did not mind. He could not speak the words he wished to in front of Rebecca at any rate. Somewhere along their travels, he would have to get Daphne alone. In the meantime, he enjoyed her nearness and took every opportunity to catch her gaze.

  Once in Manchester, Alex followed Rebecca and Daphne in and out of countless shops. He stood at the ready while the ladies shopped, then carried their packages back to the carriage. After the linen-drapers shop, he decided this must be some kind of hell on earth and began to doubt his plan for getting Daphne alone.

  He studied her from across the milliner’s shop where she stood beside Rebecca, one hip cocked to the side. How he’d like to trace that curve with his bare hands. He’d wager her flesh was soft and supple like a flower’s petals. She likely tasted as sweet too.

  “Alex, do come.” Rebecca waved him near then thrust her newest purchases into his arms. “I’ve one more shop I’d like to visit before we return home.”

  He accepted the burden with a nod. When he glanced at Daphne, she had an amused glint in her eyes.

  “You look positively exhausted, my lord.” She gave an impish half-grin. “I hope it is not too much trouble if I add one more stop to our agenda?”

  Inwardly, Alex groaned. Outwardly, he gave a nod. “If it pleases you to do so.”

  Her smile brightened. “Oh, yes, it will please me very much,” she said, her voice syrupy and mischievous.

  He’d wager she had no reason for the added stop other than to extend his torture. The minx had been avoiding him on purpose, he was sure of it now, and she was vexed that he’d bested her. Now, she meant to make him pay for his transgression.

  She’d have a short lived victory. Alex made a mental note to exact retribution once he got her beneath his sheets.

  Alex followed the ladies like a faithful dog into the final two shops. By the time they returned to the carriage, he fairly collapsed against his seat. The tediousness of the venture was almost too much to tolerate. Though being so near to Daphne made it all worthwhile.

  Except, that he still hadn’t found the opportunity to speak plainly with her.

  Rebecca flipped open her fan as she turned to Daphne. “Do say you will come to Babylon and help me sort through my purchases?”

  Daphne shot a glance in Alex’s direction.

  He gave a wink then delighted in the color that rose in her cheeks. Teasing her may well be his favorite thing to do at present.

  It was a startling realization. One
that should cause him pause, but for reasons beyond his comprehension did nothing to cool his desire for her.

  She quickly returned her attention to Rebecca. “Yes, of course.”

  Alex smiled to himself knowing that once she was at Babylon, he would be able to get her alone. If nothing else, he would seek her out when she departed.

  And that is exactly what he did. Alex kept busy in the bailey, one eye constantly trained on the large arched door of the keep until, at last, Daphne emerged. With a bounce in his step, he approached her. “Allow me to walk with you?”

  “I am capable of seeing myself home,” she said, as she quickened her step.

  Alex lengthened his stride to match her speed. “All the same, I wish to speak with you.”

  She turned her head toward him but did not slow her pace. “I cannot imagine what we might have to discuss with one another.”

  He reached for her elbow. “I have a solution to both of our problems.”

  Daphne frowned, her golden brows knitting together. “I do not have a problem.”

  “You lack the funds to send Henry to school. The lad is rather forthcoming, you know.” Alex drew them to a stop just beyond the castle walls. To his surprise, she did not resist.

  “Oh?” She arched an eyebrow, clearly unable to refrain from showing her curiosity. “And what do you propose to do about it? Marry me?”

  He came to stand in front of her. “Though I am not marriage minded, I am undeniably attracted to you, Daphne.” He took another step, bringing his chest against hers. “Be my mistress. I’ll provide for all of your needs. You won’t have to worry anymore.”

  “You’re a cad!” Her eyes narrowed, the blue depths flaming with anger. “My virtue is not for sale.”

  “I do not wish to buy you. On the contrary, I want to keep you. Make your life comfortable and your nights exciting.” He drew his finger along the curve of her jaw. “I can see the desire warming your eyes. You want me. Why not allow yourself the pleasure and gain financial freedom while you are at it?”

  She stared at him, a mixture of warmth and coolness battling in her gaze like clouds rolling past the sun.