Chapter Twelve

 

 

…I can’t love her…she can never love me…

 

The Present

 

David’s lips curled into a smile. It had indeed been a night to remember—one he would never forget. He was still lost in his thoughts when he heard his name called. “Mr. Darcy, Ms. Lawton is ready to see you now.”

Snapping out of his daydream, he responded, “Thank you, Ashley.”

He gathered his things and entered the Dragon Lady’s office.

 

~*~

 

Sitting in his office, Mr. Russell was acutely aware David Darcy was meeting with his goddaughter. He felt sure they shared a mutual attraction, but as he contemplated the situation, he wondered what, if anything, he should do about it. Daniel tapped his pencil on a notepad and let out an exasperated sigh as he shook his head. His concern for Cecilia bothered him excessively.

James Lawton, Cecilia’s father, had been Daniel’s best friend since their days at the University of South Carolina, and even before then when they had been boys in grammar school. He’d also been the best man at James’s wedding, and unfortunately, he’d had the displeasure of watching Cecilia grow up in that sorry excuse of a marriage he had tried to prevent his friend from entering. The misfortune continued as he watched James attempt to raise his daughter like a son after her mother’s death. As Daniel sat there, tapping on his note pad, his mind drifted back thirty years…

“Daniel, what do you think of Emmaline Bouchard? She’s beautiful, don’t you think? She’s the talk of Savannah, and she’s even known in Charleston. I saw her with Taylor at the Magnolia Festival last spring. I’ve never seen a more beautiful woman. Those violet- blue eyes are enchanting set against that long black hair. She’s divine. I intend to have her. What do you think?”

“James, you have got to be kidding. A beautiful face does not translate into a beautiful woman. As your mother would say, ‘Beauty is only skin deep.’ Emmaline fits that description perfectly and you damn well know it. She’s a flirt, James! She’s all over Taylor and Garrison. I’m sure she would like nothing more than to catch the heir to Taylor Shipping or Garrison Industries—either one would do. It’s all the same to her. Leave her alone, James! She’s mercenary.”

“Perhaps she is, but then aren’t all women to some degree? Come on, Daniel, she’s the most beautiful woman in the South. She won the Miss South Carolina title, was third runner-up in the Miss America Pageant, graduated cum laude, and she’s modeled in New York. You know I’m far richer than Taylor or Garrison. And I’ve never had a problem picking up women. Emma’s no different. I didn’t say I was going to marry her, only that I intend to have her.”

“James, I am telling you the truth! That woman is dangerous. You may not intend to marry her, but once she finds out what you’re worth, she’ll be intent on marrying you. And you’re just fool enough to do it!”

Daniel raised his eyes from his notepad and leaned back in his chair as he recalled their conversation. He thought about what could have been…what should have been, had James not made that one fatal mistake so many years ago. James, well known in both the business world and the prestigious historical societies in the upper classes of the South, had much to offer, and so much more to lose.

James, James…my old friend…why, James, why…you were rich, coming from a family with old money, and one of the most handsome men in both Charleston and Savannah…You had it all… my friend…six feet, three inches tall with sandy blonde hair and those clear blue eyes no woman could resist…How many times did I see the girls swoon over you… Together we were skirt chasers in our day… the world was in our hands, but you always knew you needed to marry and produce an heir… Daniel sighed as his mind wondered on. …You were the last of the Lawtons—the last of a long line from one of the most prestigious and influential founding fathers in Charleston’s history. You could have done better, James…so much better…

As Daniel had predicted, Emmaline was instantly attracted to him when she realized who he was and had set her mind to marry him, but not because she loved him or even respected him. Her love was for something much more material—his money and social standing in both Charleston and Savannah. And as Daniel had warned, after three months in her company, James was totally besotted with her, taking every opportunity he could to be in her presence. But as much as he tried, she would not let him touch her—not without a wedding ring on her finger, and James could resist neither the challenge nor the beautiful face. So James Lawton fell to the beauty and charms of Emmaline Bouchard, and the wedding of the decade was announced.

It was one of the most outlandish and celebrated weddings of its time. Everybody who was anybody was invited, including the governors of both Georgia and South Carolina. Emmaline’s father went to great lengths to provide his only child with a society wedding, for which James paid for. But a large and expensive wedding could not guarantee a happy marriage. And it was not too long afterwards that James discovered the reality of another old saying—charms are deceitful, and beauty is fleeting.

“Daniel, you were right. I’ve made a terrible mistake. She’s as cold as ice, and now that she’s pregnant, Emmaline won’t even let me touch her. What am I going to do? I don’t believe in cheating. Once you’re married, that’s over. What am I to do?”

“Damn it, James, divorce her! Find someone else. You’re young, good-looking, and as you used to say, you can have any woman you want. This time pick one who will love you for you, not for what you have.”

“I can’t leave her. She’s carrying my child. You know how badly I want that child, and I’m afraid the mother comes along with him. Besides, I love her. I’ll simply have to find a way to win her love for the sake of my child. You know how important it is to me to have a family.”

Daniel put down his pencil and rose from his desk to get another cup of coffee. After pouring a cup, he strolled over to the large window overlooking Meeting Street and gazed down. A slight smile lightened his features. A child with long blonde pigtails laughed and danced along as her mother pulled her into one of the stores. He shook his head, his mind once again recalling the past…

Since the War Between the States, Carlton House had not known the joy or laughter of children. Throughout the generations, people had whispered that a curse had been placed on the family. The supposed curse began when Samuel Lawton lost all of his sons in the war, save one. The pattern continued to the present day, but James had never believed in old wives’ tales, and he fully intended to break the long-standing occurrence. However, after the birth of Cecilia, Mrs. Lawton not only refused to give him any more children, she had also taken a separate bedroom, locking him out. Society functions and flirtations, along with James’s money, were all she cared for.

Yet, in spite of it all, Emmaline had become pregnant once more when Cecilia was seven. She was not pleased at first, but Daniel later thought she had accepted it. And then the accident occurred, causing her early delivery of a stillborn son. James was devastated, and from that day forth, they never spoke again.

Emmaline died in an accident a year later, with James blaming himself and taking on the guilt for both deaths. Daniel remembered the mess he walked into when he went to pay a visit six months later.

“James, what the hell do you think you’re doing, lying around drunk? Women in and out of the house like some sort of downtown brothel. Pull yourself together, man! You’ve got a daughter to raise. You cannot bring your whores into the house with an eight-year-old little girl living with you. You need to marry and give Celia a mother. She needs a woman’s touch.”

“Daniel, I have no intentions of marrying. I will not go through that hell ever again.”

“What about an heir, James—a son? You need a son!”

“Cecilia will be my heir. I’ll teach her everything she needs to know. I’ll teach her how to run Lawton, how to handle herself in society, and the importance of our heritage. She’ll have it all, and I’ll teach her how to handle men, too. She’ll be nobody’s fool. But you are right about one thing. The whores need to go. I’ll take a mistress.”

“James, once again, let me warn you, this is foolish…you need a wife, and Celia needs a mother!”

James did take a mistress, many of them, in fact, but there was one who stood out among the rest—Anna Carrington, a well-bred lady from Atlanta, whom he called Annie. She’d loved him with a deep, abiding love, but sadly, unable to commit, James had let her slip away.

Daniel rubbed his brow as a small tear escaped his eye. A headache was forming. I tried to warn you, James, I tried… His memory continued on…

After Anna left, James grew even harder, taking Cecilia everywhere he went—to his gambling haunts, private drinking parties, the race track, and eventually allowing his mistresses to live with them. While other young girls were enjoying dolls, games, and childhood friendships, Cecilia was learning how to run a corporation and manage a historical society. She was also caring for a father who’d often had too much to drink. Many were the times when Cecilia had had to put her father to bed with the help of a servant, and then care for his hangover the next morning.

As the young Cecilia grew older, the colder she became. She witnessed not only how her father treated his mistresses, but how, while in high school and later in college, other young men treated their girlfriends. Only those in her closest circle knew the true side of her—that she did have a heart, and she could care. But she was very cautious, never allowing herself the opportunity to be used as she saw others used.

Instead, Cecilia, led by her father’s example, learned to use men like they used women. Only once had she considered caring for a young man, and that had not gone well. Afterwards, Cecilia’s emotions and heart were not easily touched. In fact, they were never touched. The few men who’d made the mistake of falling in love with her had been left brokenhearted when she discarded them. She didn’t care how much they pleaded, how much they begged. Their anguish left her as cold as stone.

Daniel sighed once more as he recalled the last, and perhaps most painful, of all his memories—the death of his boyhood friend. James Lawton had recognized his mistakes too late to affect any significant change in his daughter, and so, on his deathbed, he’d asked Daniel to watch over her. Daniel thought back to that day as James lay there dying in the CCU…

“Daniel, I worry for Cecilia after I’m gone. She’s not right—too much like me.”

“James, Celia will be fine. You’ve given her everything—love, money, education.”

“Everything except a normal home life! You were right, I should have married… I should have married Annie. She loved me…and I cared for her, but my pride would not allow me to go after her when she left…I wanted to… I almost did… I was a fool.”

He’d drawn a labored breath as he pressed his last request. Daniel remembered it well. “Promise me you will watch over Cecilia…I’ve made such a mess of things. Promise me, Daniel. Promise me you will take care of my baby…See to it that she marries a man who will respect and love her. She’s the only good thing I’ve ever had… The only one, except for maybe Annie, who loved me in spite of myself.”

“I’ll take care of her, James…I promise…

So after James’s death, Daniel took the promotion to senior vice president in his friend’s company. He wanted to retire, but he stayed on to watch over Cecilia. Daniel took his commitment to James very seriously, intending to fulfill the promise he’d made to his old friend to the best of his ability. But there was a problem. Although he knew the softer side of her, Cecilia’s attitude towards men worried him excessively. He, like her father, wanted her to find happiness in marriage since she had never known it as a child. But he also knew that she was the last in the line of the Lawtons. If she did not marry well and produce a child, the Lawton family would die with her.

Daniel reached across his desk and picked up a picture of a chubby little girl with blonde pigtails, about three years old, sitting on a Shetland pony. He sighed, placing the picture back in its place. Shaking his head once more, he lifted his pencil and jotted down another note.

Daniel wanted Cecilia to marry for love. But he understood, probably better than she did, that she must marry someone who comprehended the importance of her family heritage, her position in Charleston’s society, and most importantly, someone who would love her for her and not for her money. She needed a man with wealth and social position all of his own, apart from her but equal, so therefore, he had formed a plan to help her along in that direction.

He had taken notice of a certain gentleman, David Darcy from England, who came from time to time on business. Daniel sensed Darcy’s attraction to his goddaughter, and had also sensed that she was not unaffected by it. Whenever he mentioned Darcy’s name, she would overreact. He also knew of the Darcy legacy and family linage and had gone to the trouble of discovering David’s character through both talking with him and research.

Through his contacts in London, he had learned not only of the younger Darcy’s reputation, which was much like James’s had been, but also of the family situation. Realizing that Darcy and Cecilia were very much alike, he felt that with a little encouragement there might be a possibility of something developing between the two of them. It would take a man like Darcy to handle her—perhaps even make her happy. Mulling it over one more time, he had now firmly decided to go ahead and take matters into his own hands. That was why he was canceling his long-standing duty to escort Cecilia to tonight’s gala.

Daniel knew it was a gamble, but it was one he felt compelled to take. Now to set his plan into motion. Picking up the phone, he made his interoffice call.

“Celia.”

“Daniel?”

“I hate to disappoint you darlin’, but I cannot make tonight’s function.”

“What? What do you mean you can’t make it?!”

“I’m sorry, Celia. I know how important this is, but I’m just not feeling well and would be poor company.”

“Daniel, you can’t do this!”

“Celia, it cannot be helped. Hopefully, with a little rest, I’ll be recovered in a few days.”

“But Daniel! Just what am I supposed to do? The dinner is in four hours! I can’t find another escort on such a short notice.”

“Why don’t you ask that English dandy sitting in your office? You’ve gone to dinner with him before. In fact, were you not out with him a few months ago? I’m sure he would be more than pleased to escort you. I’ll call you later on. I’m leaving for home now as I am feelin’ very poorly.”

With a sly smile, he hung up the phone. Daniel knew he had unnerved her. He could hear it in her voice. He had disturbed her equilibrium and set the stage for what he hoped would follow. In this mind, Darcy was the man for his goddaughter. Having done his part, the rest would be up to them. He smiled to himself. …Yes, James, he’s just like you. He cannot resist a pretty face any more than you could. And Celia? She’s like Emma. She’s got what it takes, and she knows how to use it. Chuckling, Daniel picked up his briefcase and headed for the house.

 

~*~

 

David and Cecilia were almost finished with the negotiations, which were not going as well as he would have liked, when David noticed Cecilia’s annoyance. He mildly wondered what had affected her. When she hung up the phone, she turned and looked him straight in the eye.

“David, I have a special request—a favor, more like it.” She released a sharp breath. “My escort for tonight’s dinner party has had to cancel, and I have no one to escort me. This is very important to me, as I’m hosting the event. In short, I need a date. Would you consider?” she coaxed. “It’s a black tie affair.”

David could clearly see she was flustered by the change in plans, and by the pretty red blush spread across her features, he suspected she was flushed with embarrassment at having to ask him for a date. But he also recognized an opportunity when he saw one, and he fully intended to take advantage of the one that’d so eloquently dropped into his lap.

A roguish grin split his countenance as he caught her gaze and held it. “Yes, I will, on two conditions. One, you give me another five percent on the deal we’ve been negotiating, and two,” his gaze deepened as he pressed his advantage, “you won’t tell me you’re not in the mood …not again…not tonight.”

She inhaled sharply. “David, that’s not fair. You know I’m in a lurch.” She paused for another breath. “But I’ll tell you what I will do. I’ll give you three percent and,” she said with a wry grin, “we’ll see about your other stipulation. Pick me up at 6:30.”

“You drive a hard bargain, Lawton, but I’ll take your odds. And,” he paused to drive his point home, “all’s fair in love and war, Miss Lawton.” He winked. “And you don’t have to remind me. I won’t be late.” …So now we play, Cecilia…now we play. I won’t take no for an answer this time. I, too, have a way of getting what I want…and love, what I want is you!

 

~*~

 

David left her office whistling Dixie. With the coffee deal in hand and a smile on his face, he was looking forward to tonight’s dinner engagement. Normally he didn’t enjoy formal society, but tonight held a promise. He’d been thinking about Cecilia ever since that night one year ago when she had flung that vase at him. His last attempt at getting what he wanted still stung, but his resolve was firm. She taunted and teased, denying him what he wanted, driving him to distraction, but he was determined to have her, and have her he would.

When he entered his hotel room, David threw the folder with the coffee contract on the table and went to the closet. He had several sets of clothes with him, as he never knew just what he might need. Perusing through his dinner suits, he picked out his attire for the evening and tossed it on the bed. Smiling, he went for a quick shower and shave. “Tonight’s the night, Darcy,” he spoke aloud.

Dressing for the event, his thoughts turned to Cecilia. For some strange reason that he didn’t quite understand, he found himself determined to please her. He took extra care with his preparations to look his best, planning to play the part of her escort to the very best of his gentlemanly ability. He wanted to please her in her own society, and if he got the chance, he would take the extra trouble to please her even more. He smiled. …She’s one of the most beautiful and fascinating women I’ve ever met. Yes, I’m looking forward to this night, Cecilia. I wonder what you’re like in bed. Hopefully, I’m about to find out. You won’t tell me no this time. …No, not this time. He laughed out loud.

 

~*~

 

David arrived at the Lawton Hotel promptly at 6:30. Entering the lobby was like stepping back in time. It was a five-star luxury Inn with uniquely fashioned antebellum rooms in a prettily restored historic building. The atmosphere of elegance far exceeded that of most hotels where David had stayed, and he rather liked its style and refinement, thinking it reflected well on its owner. As he glanced around, he resolved that next time he would stay here. There was something nostalgic about this place.

He took the lift up to her eighth floor suite. The door opened. A few more steps and he would be there. He wondered how she’d look tonight. Probably stunning.

After the maid let him in, he waited. When Cecilia entered the room, he was not disappointed. His breath stilled as his eyes slowly canvassed her figure, desire welling up inside of him. She was drop...dead...gorgeous in a deep plum strapless evening gown, hugging her shape, accenting her every sensual curve to its best advantage. Her amethyst and diamond choker served to bring out the shimmering hue in her violet-blue eyes. …Oh, yes, she’s beautiful!

“Good evening, Cecilia. You’re looking lovely tonight,” David whispered, reining in his emotions as his eyes once again swept over her body.

Cecilia smiled warmly. “Thank you, David. You look very handsome yourself. We have a few minutes. Would you like a glass of wine?”

“Yes, that’ll be fine.” David spoke softly, suddenly finding it difficult to breath as the sly glance from beneath her lashes jolted his senses, causing his blood to run hot and quick. Filling two goblets, she handed one to him and moved to the sofa. David took a chair opposite to her, where he watched her over the rim of his glass.

As they sat sipping their wine in quiet solitude, Cecilia noticed he was staring. She shuddered. His dark intensive gaze unnerved her, as if perhaps he might like to taste something other than the wine. She inhaled sharply, attempting to recover the composure he had so eloquently disrupted.

She wondered what he was thinking, but then from his look, she could easily guess. She had to smile. He wanted her. She knew the physical attraction between them was strong, but there was something more. He was different from anyone she’d known before, but in what way, she couldn’t exactly say. Glancing at the clock, she was relieved. It was time to go. After finishing their wine, she took the glasses to the kitchen, and they left for the Lawton Blue Room.

Upon entering, several of Cecilia’s friends came to greet her. Mrs. Appleton approached first, taking Cecilia’s hands in hers while reaching over to kiss her cheek. “Celia, darlin’, we were so worried when we heard poor Daniel was ill. I hope it’s nothin’ serious, dear.”

“I’m sure it isn’t. I think he has the flu. However, I did manage to find an escort for the evening,” Cecilia said, slipping her arm around David. “Mrs. Appleton, I’d like you to meet my friend and business associate, Mr. David Darcy. David, this is my good friend, Mrs. Tabitha Appleton,” Cecilia introduced, gesturing between the two. “Tabitha, David’s from London. He’s new to our society, so please make him feel welcome.” She flashed David a brilliant smile.

Mrs. Appleton presented her hand, avid curiosity gleaming in her blue gaze, curious about the unknown man escorting Cecilia.

“Mrs. Appleton, the pleasure is mine,” David said, offering a charming smile as he took her hand in his and pressed a kiss to the thin skin on the back of her fingers.

“Mr. Darcy, how very pleased I am to meet you,” Mrs. Appleton drawled with a careful calculating look. “And what a lovely accent,” she added with a gentle smile.

Cecilia barely managed to prevent her eyes from rolling towards the ceiling at the older woman’s inquisitive stare. She could hear it now. Who is this man Cecilia’s with…I hope it lasts…she needs a man in her life. Oh, well, she shrugged. It was part of the price she paid for being in the probing eye of society. Everyone wonders whom you’re with and what you’re doing. She refused to let it ruin her evening.

David and Cecilia moved to the bar where they each ordered a glass of port. While casually sipping their wine, several more people came by for introductions, and before long, David had met nearly everyone in the room. As they talked and mingled, Cecilia was called aside to speak with Mrs. Robinson, the society’s treasurer, about tonight’s event.

“David, I hate to leave you here alone like this, but I really must attend to this matter. It involves tonight’s speech. I’ll only be a few minutes as we’re about to start.”

“Take your time. Don’t worry about me. I’ll have another glass of port wine whilst I wait. I’ll be fine.”

While he sipped his wine, David watched her as she mixed and mingled so naturally among her peers, smiling and laughing. Cecilia was so different from the hardnosed woman he was accustomed to seeing at the negotiating table. There was a softness about her features he’d never noticed before. Curiously, she was not like the women he’d previously dated, not even those from among his own sphere. But what was different? He didn’t know. There was an elegance and grace in her movements, but that wasn’t it. It was something else. She appeared to care about her duties and the people here in this room. The curve of her lips when she smiled was gentle and relaxed. She was perfectly at ease in society. He took another sip of wine, settling in to watch her closely.

While he was watching Cecilia, another man watched him. A man in his late fifties or early sixties approached and ordered a glass of Gentleman Jack.

“She’s a lovely lady, don’t you think, Darcy?”

David turned to face the man. “Yes, yes, she is.”

The man extended his hand. “I believe we met a little while ago.”

“Yes, we did. I believe you are Mr. Robert Russell, owner of the Ford and Mercedes Benz dealership here in Charleston, and Daniel Russell’s brother,” David said with a friendly smile as they shook hands.

“Correct again on both accounts. And yes, my family has been in that business since after the Second World War.” Mr. Russell followed David’s eyes to where Cecilia stood.

“I see Celia is talking with Jenny. She’s the current president of the South Carolina Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. I believe Celia is running for that office come this January. She’s very dedicated to her work here at the historical society.”

“What exactly does she do?” David asked, as he continued to watch Cecilia.

“Oh, mostly she oversees the projects, making sure they’re managed properly. There are several volunteers who travel throughout the South lookin’ for old historical journals to publish and sell in the little bookshops around town. She buys property in the historical district to renovate, turning them into historical museums or homes for neglected children. She also collects artifacts from estate sales to display, lectures here and there about the Old South, the War Between the States, and the settling of Charles Towne. And she’s been known to act in several Civil War Reenactments, too. But probably the most important thing would be her father’s cotton and rice research projects. She’s attemptin’ to finish his work and reintroduce the Sea Island Cotton and Carolina Gold Rice back into production in South Carolina’s agricultural economy.”

The corners of David’s mouth arched upward as he listened.

Russell smiled as he sipped his drink. “She’s also very active in our community, personally supportin’ projects for the less fortunate, such as our homeless shelters and Hannah’s House, a home for battered women, and I might add, one of her favorite charities,” Robert drawled in his strong Lowcountry accent. “That’s somethin’ that is very important to Celia. Nothin’ gets her ire up quicker than to see a woman or a child abused by those who are supposed to love and protect them.”

“I would have never guessed she was involved in such endeavors,” David said, raising his glass to his lips, his eyes steady on their target.

“Yes, it’s not readily obvious, I know.” Robert chuckled. “And I also know what people say, but that’s not true. She’s as good as gold to those around her who suffer, ‘cause you see, Darcy, she’s suffered, too. Just because you’re rich doesn’t mean you’re immune to pain. Celia’s quite a lady, Mr. Darcy, and she’s greatly loved and admired by the people of Charleston, especially those among the oldest families—the ones who keep this town grounded in its roots.” Sipping his drink, he pressed on. “But then again, there are those among us from that blue-blooded crowd that holds her in contempt because of her father. They were jealous of him, too,” he said matter-of-factly. “But James did as he damn well pleased. He didn’t care, and in that regard, she’s just like him. But the rest of us ‘blue bloods’ keep them in check. And Celia couldn’t give a rat’s ass about them anyway.”

“I didn’t realize she was so active in her community.” David’s gaze locked on Cecilia, staring as if seeing her for the first time. The ruthless businesswoman in the boardroom was a far cry from the concerned activist Robert described.

“Yes, there’s a lot to people that often gets overlooked, and that’s especially true of Celia. She keeps a low profile when it comes to her personal life. Her life growing up was not easy. We’ve all been protective of her.”

David tilted his head, his attention completely focused on Robert. This was the second time someone had mentioned her early life. David’s curiosity was piqued. “What was her life like?”

“Well, her mother and father, I’m sorry to say, didn’t get along none too well.” Robert looked away for moment and then caught David’s gaze and held it. “They fought like cats and dogs, and when Celia was eight years old, her mother tragically died.” Robert paused again to clear his throat and have another drink. “Now for some reason, of which I know little of, James felt guilty for Emmaline’s death, taking it very hard. He fell into reckless living, and all I will say on that matter is that Celia saw more than a young girl should ever see.”

David’s eyes widened as he sipped his wine.

“Now don’t get me wrong, Darcy,” Robert reassured, noticing David’s countenance. “James loved her. It’s just that he couldn’t handle his personal life’s crises, but Celia was always the center of his world. He loved her very much, and Celia was loyal to him. She went everywhere with him, and when he died, she took it very hard. Some say she has become just like him, cold and indifferent, but I don’t think so. I remember the sweet little girl who used to ride ponies and sing songs. How you see her tonight is how she really is—the girl I remember.” He paused as he spied a portly woman waving. “Well, if you will excuse me, I believe my wife is callin’. I bid you a good evenin’, Mr. Darcy.” Mr. Russell shook David’s hand once again before taking his leave.

 

~*~

 

Meanwhile, another man closely observed Cecilia and David’s movements. “Keeler, who’s that Brit Celia’s seein’? She never brings a date here, and she’s been seen with him before. I was told they had an unusually good time at O’Malley’s.”

“Why do you care, Cameron? You dumped her years ago for Amelia, remember?”

“Yeah, and what a mistake that turned out to be. I traded brains for a bitch.” Cameron smirked, “I intend to win her back, and I don’t need some damned Englishman gettin’ in my way.” Cameron nursed his whiskey while he watched Robert speaking with the Brit.

 

~*~

 

As Robert walked away, David frowned …That was a completely different side to her …So she had a difficult time as a child…not unlike me…hmm…

While David was lost in his thoughts, Cecilia approached him. “David, I think we should take our seats. It’s about to begin.”

Cecilia guided him to their table where they ate and talked with those around them until the time arrived for Cecilia to give the annual report to the Charleston Historical Counsel Board. She rose from her seat, papers in hand, and walked to the podium.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” she smiled, “I open this meeting with the reading of the minutes of the last meeting. Margaret, will you please do the honors?”

A tall, thin woman in her mid-thirties stood up and read the minutes. When she concluded, Cecilia inquired. “Are there any questions?”

No reply.

“All right, since there are no questions, I will proceed with our annual report.” Cecilia paused for a sip of water, and then she read the report. “Sullivan House has been purchased for just under two million dollars and plans for its restoration are well underway. Also, twenty-five journals dating from 1795 to 1947 were located and are now published and for sale in the historical bookstores. And lastly, the Charleston Heritage Cookbook, sponsored by the Junior League, is entering its fifteenth printing.” She continued on with the report of the sales in the historical shops, which had exceeded expectations. Concluding the business section of the report, she moved on to a personal project that was very dear to her heart.

“That brings me to a point of new business. Since we are a nonprofit organization, I would like to take some of the extra money we have and donate it to Hannah’s House, but no decision is to be made on that point tonight. We will take it up at our next scheduled meeting.”

Stopping for a brief moment, she leaned onto the podium and surveyed the audience. “I must temporary halt here to say something that distresses me to no end. I read just the other day in The Charleston News Courier that there were far more battered and abused women this year than in the previous. I want you to know that I am appalled and ashamed that such a thing still exists here in Charleston.” Cecilia paused. “There should be no battered or abused women in Charleston, or anywhere else, for that matter. I want us as a group to do all within our power to help women overcome their co-dependency on these men, or dare I say animals, who abuse them. This wretched behavior is unforgivable.”

The room broke out in applause. When the clapping calmed, she continued. “Moving on to the next item, we are renovating Choler House on East Battery for the new Children’s Advocacy Home. Battered and abused children will be given a home there where they will be allowed to heal and grow. That project will be finished next week with the center hopefully opening before Christmas. I’ve promised the children a Christmas party when it finally opens,” she said with a smile. “I would like to see all of us come and read a book, play, or share some time with the children in whatever way we can. They need to know that people care. I’m also sponsoring an Angel Tree Program. I have a list of what each child needs and wants for Christmas, so if you would like to participate, see me after the meeting. Let’s give these children a good Christmas.” Another round of applause erupted.

“Before I conclude this report, are there any questions?”

There was no answer.

“No one?”

She nodded, accepting the silence as the society’s acquiescence. “Well, since there are no questions, that concludes my report. I now turn the floor over to Cameron Taylor. Cameron.” Cecilia smiled as she handed the microphone to the gentleman, who upon taking it gave her an affectionate kiss on the cheek.

She glared in warning.

Not missing Cameron’s kiss and Cecilia’s reaction, David smiled, amused, thinking of his own experiences. At least she had been affectionate with him, even if he had failed to seduce her.

The dinner was a great success, with almost everyone taking a child’s name to sponsor for a Christmas gift. Even David took one, leaving Cecilia with enough money to purchase the gifts for the older boy he had selected. Besides the Lego Technic/Expert Builder Kit and Ipod Nano the child wanted, David insisted the child be given a collection of The Chronicles of Narnia, which he had loved as a boy.

When all the names were taken, David and Cecilia mixed and mingled among the crowd. One by one, the guests came to talk with David.

“Mr. Darcy, it’s good to meet you. We always enjoy new and varying company in our society, and you seem interestin’ to talk with. It’s not often that I find someone who enjoys a fast horse or a fast woman, and I believe you enjoy both.” Solomon Abercrombie winked as he eyed Cecilia across the room.

“Well yes, Mr. Abercrombie, I do admire a fast horse and own several Arabians, but as to women, I never discuss that.” David paused and changed the subject. “I understand your South Carolina thoroughbreds are among the best. Did I hear you tell Mr. Russell that your horse, Southern Diamond, won the Preakness Stakes?”

“Why yes, Darcy, she did, and the Belmont Stakes, too. And she came within a nose hair at Churchill Downs, puttin’ me one race shy of the Triple Crown. But there is always next year with a filly I own that’s lookin’ pretty promisin’.” Solomon’s brow arched. “Say, Darcy, you keep up with horse racin’ do you?”

“As a matter of fact, I do. My white Arabian stallion has potential, but unfortunately I lack the time to explore it.” David smiled as Abercrombie’s curiosity piqued into an area David felt comfortable discussing.

“Oh? Tell me about him. What’s his name and who sired him?”

“His name is Sea Crest, and he’s from the royal line in Saudi Arabia. He was a gift from the King—one of his prize stallions, bred for speed across the desert.”

“Umm, I see. I’ll have to look him up.” Solomon frowned, staring at David with newfound respect.

“You do that. I’m sure you’ll like what you find.” David chuckled, clearly amused.

“Now, what kinda car do you drive?” Abercrombie asked, eyeing David closely.

“Hmm…well, I have several, actually. I own a black Jag XK, a red Romeo 8C Competizione, and a few sport utility vehicles. I also have a Blue Hera Lamborghini LP640 Murciélago Coupé on order.”

“A Murciélago you say? Umm…quite impressive, Darcy. Six hundred and thirty-one horse power. Zero to sixty in less than 3.5 seconds from a dead stop with a top speed of 222 mph. It’s one of the fastest cars on the road. I saw the Roadster version at the Los Angeles Auto Show last month. At over $320,000, the LP640 is quite a car. Your other cars aren’t half bad either. Hmm… fast cars, fast horses, and fast women. Some like it hot,” Abercrombie said on a soft chuckle, sipping his whiskey while he glanced between David and Cecilia. “On horses and cars, you appear to be a man of knowledge with some good sense and understandin’, but Darcy,” he grinned widely, “when it comes to the woman, I’m afraid you’re in for a real challenge. Cecilia is quite a little filly herself and hot to trot from what I hear, but what I wonder is…are you the right stud?” Solomon’s eyebrow shot up as he nodded with a dry grin. “Remember, Darcy, women are a lot like horses. They have to be broken in and trained.” Mr. Abercrombie winked as he moved along.

David’s eyes flashed in amusement. …Broken in and trained indeed! I have a feeling nobody breaks or trains Cecilia…and I wouldn’t want to be the man who attempted it!

 

~*~

 

While David went on to talk with another gentleman, Cameron approached Cecilia. “Who’s the Brit you’ve been seein’?”

“Why do you want to know?” she inquired in a frosted tone. “Are you seeking an introduction?”

“Hardly,” he snarled, “I want to know why you’re seein’ him, and why you took him to O’Malley’s—the place we used to go.” Cameron’s eyes narrowed.

“Look, Cameron, we haven’t dated in years. I owe you no explanations as to whom I see or what I do. Is that understood? Now leave me alone and go back to Amelia. The two of you deserve each other.” Giving him a scornful look, she walked away to join a group of ladies near the refreshment table.

Cameron’s eyes followed her as he sipped his whiskey. …Celia, you will be mine, and no damned Englishman is gonna interfere.

 

~*~

 

As Cecilia approached the assembled ladies, Glenna Cunningham reached for her hands, taking them in a gentle squeeze. “Celia, darlin’, your Mr. Darcy is such a charmin’ young man, and he has excellent manners, too, so polite and thoughtful. Maybelle, Jenny, Tabitha, and I have all been talkin’ to him, and we just love him, darlin’. Don’t we, girls?” she said as she looked to the other ladies present.

“Oh, yes, indeed we do,” Maybelle said with the others agreeing in unison as they nodded among themselves.

“I hope you’ll bring him to more of our functions. He has really impressed my husband with his knowledge of huntin’ hounds.” Jenny added, “Apparently, he and his brother keep a variety of dogs, and they hunt. Did you know they have a large estate in England?” Her eyes danced with mirth. “Oh, and they raise horses, too. I heard him and Mr. Abercrombie talkin’ about racehorses. Your Mr. Darcy sure knows a lot about em’, suga.”

“No, Jen, I didn’t know,” Cecilia’s voice faded into a whisper, surprised at the more human side of David Darcy. “You all appear to know him better than I do. I only know him through our business association. …He raises hounds and horses, does he? Interesting… Daddy raised hounds and horses…I like both …

“Well, honey, a good-lookin’ man like that? You need to get to know him, darlin’. The way he looks at you tells me he’d like to get to know you better.” Tabitha said.

“Everybody’s talkin’ about him, honey, and Celia, they like him. Look how he laughs and converses with the men—so at ease as if he’s known ‘em forever.” Mrs. Cunningham raised her hands in praise while glancing in David’s direction.

Cecilia cut her eyes across to where David stood talking with several gentlemen. “I suppose you’re right. He seems to mix and mingle as if he belongs here,” Cecilia said with a slight frown. “Somehow I didn’t expect that.”

“Well, Celia darlin’, I don’t know why not. He’s a perfect gentleman, and if I were you, I wouldn’t let that one slip away. You need to snatch him up. We all know you can do it, if you only will.” Mrs. Appleton smiled while everyone present mumbled in agreement.

“Perhaps. Excuse me, ladies. I think I’ll join him.”

The ladies only smiled while gently nodding.

Cecilia strolled across the room and approached David, slipping her arm into his while she looked up at him admiringly. “David, let’s have another glass of wine.”

David turned and smiled. “If you wish,” he said before turning back to the gentleman he’d been talking with. “Excuse us, Mr. Smith. My date has reclaimed me. You take very good care of that English Setter. She sounds like a good dog. I think my male might be what you’re looking for in a stud. Perhaps someday I can see her, and we can discuss breeding in more detail, and give my regards to Mrs. Smith,” David said, shaking Asa Smith’s hand.

“Louise will be pleased you thought of her,” Asa said.

David and Cecilia walked together to the bar where she ordered two glasses of port. “It seems everyone has occupied your attention but me.”

“Oh, I wouldn’t say that.” His eyes swept downward before lifting and holding her gaze. “You’ve occupied my thoughts for months.”

Smiling up at him, she sipped her wine as they engaged one another in quiet conversation until the hour approached eleven and people began to leave. Cecilia once again slipped her arm into his. “David, we need to go. Would you escort me to my suite?”

“Let’s go,” he said with a warm smile.

Approaching the lobby, he told her, “Cecilia, I had a very interesting evening. The people were warm and friendly. I don’t usually enjoy being in society, so that’s a compliment to you. You see, I can give an admiring comment, when one’s warranted.”

She smiled affectionately as they walked towards the lift. “With those I saw talking with you, I can only imagine what they had to say about me. Not all of them like me, but that’s all right. The feeling’s mutual.”

“It wasn’t bad at all. They had nothing but good things to say.”

 

~*~

 

Escorting her back to her penthouse, uneasiness settled in over David. He felt as nervous as a first-year university student as he contemplated the close of the evening. It was not like him at all. His mind was in turmoil.

When they came to her door, he reached over to kiss her goodnight, deciding it was probably best to simply leave. Somehow the things he had desired seemed hollow, and he was not entirely sure what would happen if he should stay, considering their past. But when she returned his kiss with such desire, such fervor, his uncertainty gave way to his desire to stay. If he had ever felt this much passion while kissing a woman before, he couldn’t remember it, not even with her. He felt her draw and pull on him, and without realizing what he was doing, he was in her suite, kissing and caressing her.

“This is the second half of your bargain, David,” she whispered softly against his lips. “I just happen to be in the mood tonight.” Her lips caught his once more in a deep, lingering kiss. Breaking free, she looked him directly in the eye. “But, before we continue, one thing must be made crystal clear, Darcy. Just because I screw you, it does not mean that I love you, or that I ever will. Understand that, and we’ll get along just fine.”

David swallowed hard, taken aback by her boldness, for that had always been his line. Although he had never considered the possibility of loving her, he was stunned just the same that she would echo his own words, the very words he had spoken many times, and disappointed that she had.

Composing himself, he gazed deeply into her passion-filled eyes. “That’s all right, Cecilia. I’m not the marrying kind.” Even as the familiar words fell from his mouth, he wondered if they were true. For the first time that phrase sounded empty and false.

“Then we understand one another?”

“Perfectly,” he whispered.

His gaze held hers while a mixture of uncertain feelings washed over him. He could sense that she might possibly hold a power over him, and he wondered if this night was such a good idea after all. David momentarily thought of leaving, but the chemistry between them and the intensity of built-up desire, coupled with need, was incredible. Even if he had wanted to, he couldn’t have resisted her. She was captivating and beautiful—and he wanted her.

His breath caught in his throat. David looked at her with uninhibited longing before taking her into his arms and kissing her with a wet, ravenous kiss, his tongue devouring hers. He was determined to have her. If her words had meant anything to him, they were quickly forgotten the moment his lips touched hers.

Cecilia broke their embrace and took him by the hand, leading him into her bedroom where they silently undressed, and for a brief moment, stood there gazing at one another. David drew in a deep breath as his eyes traced over every inch of her beautiful body. The gentle curve of her neck begged to be kissed. He followed the line of her throat flowing into her ample breasts, imagining his lips grazing them as well. Traversing downward, he focused on her flat, well-toned stomach, and then the curve of her waist into her

well-rounded hips. Perfect! Then there were her long, shapely legs—a leggy blonde, his particular weakness.

Given his experience, he wouldn’t have thought anything or anyone could have stirred his sensibilities to this degree, but he was wrong. She was more beautiful than any woman he’d ever seen, and yet it wasn’t her physical beauty that attracted him to this level. It was something else entirely. Something he couldn’t quite fathom—an enigma better left to another day to comprehend.

She stood, tall and erect, watching him observe her. She smiled, her lashes sweeping downward. Then she turned and gathered back the coverlet and slid into bed.

“Come,” she said.

He obeyed. Not even in his wildest dreams had he imagined what it would be like to take her to bed, or how strong his attraction had become. His pulse quickened. The violet hue in her shimmering eyes flashed with desire. She wanted him, and he wanted her. As he settled in beside her, she pulled him into her arms, kissing him, touching him, tasting him, savoring him. And David welcomed her embrace, tenderly returning her kiss while he caressed her, as if she were a treasured possession.

“Beautiful…you’re so beautiful,” he whispered inaudibly against her neck, inhaling her exotic scent—jasmine mingled with gardenia and sandalwood. He handled her with more tenderness than he was aware he even possessed. It was suddenly important that this night become special for the both of them.

Just as he made every effort to please her, she made every effort to please him, and please him she did. Her hair teased his skin as she bent low, running kisses interspersed with light traces of her tongue as she ever-so-lightly caressed his body, working her way down to his arousal and taking him in, sending shivers coursing through his body. When she retraced the path she’d descended, he moaned softly. She had discovered the tender spot on the nape of his neck that many of his lovers overlooked. The sensual feel of her warm breath against his skin unleashed a torrent of feelings he was unaware he possessed, driving him to places he’d never been. He caressed her, tenderly memorizing her every curve with the tips of his fingers.

They made love on pure raw instinct—taking, giving, consuming. It was different—she was different. When he entered her, she tightened around him, flooding him with a euphoric feeling he could not remember ever experiencing. The ferocity of his desire overwhelmed him as they rhythmically rocked and swelled as one upon the silken sheets. When they reached their completion, he withdrew and fell back, pulling her into the curve of his body. Holding her close to his heart, he lovingly stroked her hair and back, tenderly caressing her every curve all over again.

His mind was a tempest, and he could tell from the way she trembled that she had felt it, too. Every kiss, every touch, evoked feelings that he’d never felt with anyone, and while he laid there holding her in his arms, David Darcy felt for the first time in his life that he wanted to tell a woman he loved her.

…How can this be? I can’t love her. I don’t even know her…And she could never love me. Darcy, did you not hear her words? It’s just sex. I wonder who’s using whom.

No, I must be rational—this is only one night. I leave for London in the morning. Even if…NO! She is not the kind of woman who would commit. She said so herself, and you have heard the rumors about her.

No, tonight I’ll love her and hold her, but tomorrow I must leave. I cannot allow my feelings to become engaged—especially not by her. I will not be her plaything. I can’t let her know how much she has affected me. I’m not in too deep…not yet.

He’d been with countless women, had known their passion and enjoyed their charms, but none had stirred his senses like the woman he now held in his arms. He had intended to please her for his own selfish purposes, but instead, he pleased her because he wanted to. He’d have to shake this feeling before he saw his brother in a few days. He couldn’t hide much from him. Fitzwilliam read him like a book.

Cecilia took a deep breath. Although she would never admit it, David had moved her like no other, throwing her emotions into chaos as she lay there trembling in his arms. He was the best lover she had ever experienced. He had truly rocked her world. She reached up and kissed his cheek as she snuggled closer. And there was another thing that she had not expected—the softer, genteel side of David Darcy. With what she had seen tonight, Cecilia had garnered a newfound respect for him.