Late Edition!
Word has it that the Damp Squib Lord William Cavensham is on the hunt for a wife.
Some compare him to a firework ready to light up some lucky woman’s life.
This humble reporter wagers he’ll never ignite.
Why do you think we call him the Damp Squib?
Fair reporting is our motto.
The Midnight Cryer
Thea strolled to the maze that lay on the outer edge of the formal garden that bordered Stella’s estate. The garden, the last project completed by Thea’s mother before her death, was Ladykyrk’s jewel. She slowed her pace once she entered the massive puzzle, then meandered through the intricate labyrinth of boxwood shrubs until she found her favorite bench. The soft gurgling of a fountain in the background lent a lovely musical effect.
Whenever her solitude became too great to bear, Thea headed to the maze. A sense of belonging always surrounded her as if her father and mother stood silently by and counseled her. Though she didn’t remember her parents, she felt close to them here, and for some reason, she could clear her jumbled thoughts.
But not now. Tomorrow, she’d leave Ladykyrk for London. The idea that it could be forever weighed heavy. With everything, including her life, tangled into tight knots, Thea feared she’d never find her way free. She needed someone strong to stand beside her when the new duke challenged her title, someone not afraid of conflict.
She had enough experience in her small glimpse of the world to understand she suffered a disadvantage as a woman. Though a peeress in her own right, men could easily dismiss her claims. The House of Lords’ committee expected that she’d marry was just another example. The idea that Ferr-Colby could force her from her property was another. Faced with an interview by the committee, she needed to present her best arguments and have support behind her.
An image of the Daniels’ family loomed before her. Their family and the other tenants who worked and toiled the land depended on her success, not to mention Mr. and Mrs. Miles’ security were her responsibility.
She could not fail. Too much was at stake.
With a sigh, she closed her eyes, and the warmth of the sun enveloped her. Slowly, she relaxed against the bench. Fantasies of a lover, a husband, rose to the forefronts of her musings. The heat of one body against another filled her with longing. It would be a blessing, a gift even, if she could share the responsibility of her great estate with someone. But that wasn’t why she needed a husband. She needed a partner, someone with enough gravitas that just by his mere presence, her standing would be secure.
Her traitorous thoughts drifted to Lord William Cavensham. She couldn’t necessarily blame him for his response to her refusal to marry him. He didn’t even know her. Also, why would a sophisticated—not to mention a gloriously handsome—man want to be saddled with a country bumpkin, even one who possessed a title and a great estate along with a fortune?
Suddenly, a sound drew her attention to the pathway.
The scrunch of gravel signaled she wasn’t alone. It was probably a dog or cat, or an adventurous chicken too far from its coop. Perhaps she’d magically summoned her very own knight-errant who would help her save the title and estate.
A shadow crept over her, blocking the sun. When Thea turned, she had to shield her eyes as the setting sun surrounded a man in a brilliant fire of light. Her heart accelerated at the sight. As if she conjured him from her imaginings, he stood before her. He wasn’t a knight, nor the devil. Quickly, she stood when he approached.
“Lady Eanruig, I didn’t mean to startle you.”
At the rumble of his voice, her heart skipped a beat.
“Will, what a surprise.” She lowered herself to the bench again. “I didn’t expect to see you this evening.” She didn’t add that she never expected to see anyone in the evening, as no one ever intruded upon her sanctuary.
“May I join you?” He closed the distance between them. When he reached her side, he bowed elegantly like she was a proper lady.
“Please do.” She scooted to the end of the bench, and he settled next to her. A hint of orange and bergamot wafted through the air. She inhaled the fragrance, then held her breath, hoping to memorize it. His essence layered the clean crisp scent, a reminder he was sophisticated in ways she’d never be. He must have come from dinner as he was dressed in black pantaloons, a dark red waistcoat, and a gray broadcloth evening coat.
She struggled to find something witty to say. London women probably had formal training in how to converse with other members of society. Another lesson to add to her ever-expanding repertoire she must master before she appeared in front of the committee. “How was dinner?”
He shifted slightly and regarded her. His dark sable hair contrasted perfectly with the brilliance of his blue eyes. He shrugged, then smiled like a child who didn’t care a whit at being discovered with his hand in the biscuit jar.
“Sadly, without your company, it lacked any appeal.” The corners of his mouth curved upwards. “I’m afraid I dined alone as my great-aunt and her friend chose to dine in their rooms this evening. They’re busy packing for London.”
She’d dined alone too. Mr. and Mrs. Miles had eaten with friends in the village. It was as if they sensed she wanted the estate to herself for one last night. It was a sweet gesture so she could say goodbye to the great house and the beautiful fields in case.…
No, she’d not lose it. She’d not allow herself to think of any other outcome.
“What were you doing at the Daniels’ farm?” The question burst free, betraying her fear. Good God, she had wanted to appear sophisticated while she wove that question into their conversation.
He simply stared at her.
In response, she dropped her gaze to her clenched hands. She shifted slightly toward the end of the bench as if to escape his intensity.
“After I left your home, Mr. Miles suggested I talk to some of your tenants. I saw Robbie Daniels struggling with a repair to his barn and offered my assistance.”
She peeked at his face and wished she hadn’t. His gaze pierced hers as if he could see inside where all her doubts and insecurities resided. “His twin daughters told me of your visit. You made quite an impression with them.”
“I never could resist captivating ladies, and those two are quite the charmers.” He chuckled, and the sound reverberated within his chest.
In response, she found herself leaning closer. “That was all?”
His brow crinkled into neat rows, reminiscent of the newly planted fields at Ladykyrk. “What are you asking?”
“Nothing,” she responded.
Their conversation quieted, and the buzzing of spring beetles and the warning cry of a crow were the only sounds that broke the stillness of the early evening.
“Are you suspicious of me?” His simple question made her cringe.
“A little,” she responded without hesitating. “I don’t know you, and I don’t understand why you would help Mr. Daniels, unless…” The words lay suspended in the air. She closed her eyes and begged the heavens he’d leave well enough alone.
“Unless what?” he queried.
So much for her prayers being answered. She straightened her spine, then twisted so she could see his face. “Are you here to gather information against me for the new duke?” She tightened her stomach for the blow.
“Where would you get that idea?” he asked softly, the sound soothing, but the empathy in his voice made her feel two inches tall for doubting him.
“That was a horrible thing to ask. I’m sorry.” She twisted her fingers together, a nervous habit. “My first and only thought every day is how to protect Ladykyrk.” Tears welled in her eyes, but she drew a deep breath to squelch them. “I haven’t had many confidants in my life, but I should have trusted you. Your aunt thinks the world of you, and that should have been enough proof for me.”
He shook his head quickly. “No, you did the right thing by asking. I would’ve too. I think perhaps we’re both skeptical creatures.” One of his adorable half smiles tugged at one side of his mouth. “That’s why we rub along so well together. But, it’s apparent we’ve misunderstood each other. I want to help you.”
This was what Ferr-Colby’s challenge had done to her. She couldn’t even accept the kindness of the man before her without doubting his actions.
Her heart pounded against her ribs, and she took a deep breath to calm the riot of emotions that threatened to overwhelm her. “I’m sorry I sound suspicious. It’s just that the people I thought I could depend on failed me.”
“Who?” he asked.
“Just people.” She didn’t want to share that her grandfather had failed her in hiding the charter. Though he was a sick man, he should have given her the charter before his memory had failed to the point where he couldn’t remember what he’d eaten an hour before.
But the true failure was Ferr-Colby. In his quest to take her home, the new duke ignored the fact they were third cousins and the only family each other had. Though she’d only met Will once, perhaps he was someone she could consider a possible friend. The idea that he’d betrayed her now seemed ridiculous. He had nothing to gain.
He shook his head quickly as if to chase away a gnat. “I spoke with Robbie to learn more about Ladykyrk. Your estate is beautiful, and your hard work is apparent in every square inch of land. Your tenants greatly admire you. I’m of the same mind.” He lowered his voice until it rumbled. “Your estate is impressive and so are you.”
For the first time that evening, she smiled. Her heart beat a little faster at such a lovely compliment.
He leaned close as if divulging a secret. “I know those truths because of Mr. Daniels’ praise, not to mention that your face beams when you talk about Ladykyrk and the people who work here.” A slight smile lingered on his lips. “When I returned home, I spoke with my aunt. I’ve come to understand your situation better.”
He leaned against the granite bench, obviously at ease. When he contemplated the maze before them, she wanted to protest and ask him to look at her. With his lovely words, he’d woven an enchanting spell around her, and she wanted it back.
“I also understand you’ve been living alone since your grandfather died,” he said.
She nodded. The cadence of his words soothed, but the meaning stirred painful memories. In truth, she’d been living alone for years.
“Will you please take pity and forgive me?” Thea said. “I shouldn’t have thrown you out of my home after you were so kind and read the documents for me. Nor should I have asked you about the Daniels family.”
“There was no offense taken.” He turned slightly on the bench and faced her. “Have you found any more documents?”
“No.” Her stomach tightened in protest rather than admit defeat, but she had no other choice. “I’ve looked everywhere. There’s nothing else.”
He took her hand in his. Suspended in time, she could only stare at the gesture. His fingers dwarfed hers, and the rough calluses of his fingers against her skin tickled, and frankly, surprised her. She’d have thought such a man would have soft, perfect hands. The roughness of his indicated a man who was accustomed to work.
Without tearing his gaze from hers, he lowered his voice. “My family will help you through this.”
“They don’t know me.” To her own ears, she sounded pathetic, but she had to accept the reality that faced her in London. Besides Stella and Lady Edith, she was truly on her own.
“It makes no difference. You see, I believe in you. And for my family, that will be enough to stand beside you and fight on your behalf. I’d like for you to stay at my father’s house with Stella and Edith.”
“Truly?” She stared at him. The sincerity in his eyes made her desperate to believe that she might have real help when she faced the committee. “I wasn’t expecting such a kind offer. Your aunt and Lady Edith have been everything warm and lovely. How will I ever repay you?”
He stretched out a leg. The tight cut of his breeches emphasized the well-defined muscles of his leg. Though the sight was more proof that he was accustomed to hard work, it held her spellbound. She’d never seen anything like it, or more accurately, anyone like him before.
Eventually, she took a breath and caught his gaze. Something unrecognizable smoldered deep inside those blue orbs. Slowly and with great care, he brought her hand toward his lips. When his warm breath brushed the skin of her hand, an immediate chill raced through her body. Never had she felt so unsure, and frankly, she enjoyed it. He was actually compassionate, not to mention kind.
She couldn’t read anything into his action. It was simply an offer of comfort in the moment.
“No repayment needed. It’ll be my pleasure. As a matter of fact, I should be the one to thank you.” He gently let go of her hand.
The loss of his warmth was almost unbearable. “Really?”
“Yes. My life is nothing but work and family. I think I’ve grown stale.” An endearing smile tugged at his lips. “A good fight might just put me back to rights. Perhaps you’ll allow me to help you with the ton and others in society.”
She nodded. “I’ll need all the help I can muster. But why are you out of sorts?” His honesty in revealing this glimpse of himself thrilled her. It made her want to share more with him.
“I think I’ve allowed myself to become too insulated.” His brow slightly furrowed as he contemplated what to say. “I don’t go to ton events. But when we take you to London, I’ll escort you. Who knows? Maybe I’ll become interested in city life again.”
“Or perhaps a woman?” As the words escaped, she wanted to recall them. For some odd reason, she didn’t like the idea of Will squiring around a woman. Such a silly idea as she had no claim to him. But, she reached for his hand again, then pulled away as if burned. What was she thinking? Thankfully, she hadn’t touched him, but the damage had been done. His eyes had widened at her action, but since he was a true gentleman, he didn’t react or say anything otherwise. Such action was more appropriate for some besotted schoolgirl, not a countess.
“Not likely. I don’t ever see myself falling in.…” He shook his head gently, then turned, and his attention drew to the maze. “Whenever I’d come for visits here, I’d find myself walking in your maze. Inevitably, I’d become lost. It’s quite an ingenious design.”
“My mother designed it.” She stood to escape his overwhelming nearness. “She completed it right before she gave birth to me.”
“Tell me about her.” He stood in response with a warm smile that could have melted the snowcaps in the Arctic.
“There’s not much to the story.” She trailed her hand across the prickly, but meticulously manicured boxwood stems.
“Humor me. I’m in the mood for a story,” he said.
“My younger brother died in childbirth along with my mother. I had just turned one. Shortly thereafter, my father was thrown from his horse and didn’t survive the fall. My mother’s father, the duke, raised me.”
“I’m sorry,” he said quietly.
She forced herself to hold his gaze. Loneliness and hurt for all she’d lost in life welled in her chest, but she’d not show any weakness. “Thank you.”
“Will you escort me through your mother’s maze?” Like a rare vintage port wine, his voice soothed away the awkwardness between them. “I’d like to see it again. If I remember correctly, there’s an extraordinary fountain in the center.”
As if in a trance, she walked to Will’s side and took his arm without reservation.
Will could only draw one conclusion.
He had little doubt that any question he’d asked, she’d answer with a rare candor, one that if exposed in London society would likely have all the paragons and grand dames of the ton swooning in shock. But only if it didn’t involve the hurt she’d experienced in life.
They meandered through the maze without a word. When a root boldly protruded from the ground, he took Theodora’s hand to help her over the branch. She stilled, and her questioning gaze darted to his.
“I thought you might need assistance,” he said. “It’s customary for gentlemen to help ladies over obstacles.”
“Thank you.” All earlier traces of unease disappeared, softening her face.
Maybe there was a way he could help above and beyond what he’d offered.
The more time he spent with her, the more intrigued he found himself.
Deep down, he felt sympathy for her plight. She’d been raised by an elderly man, then most likely become his caretaker. Her childhood must have been lonely—stuck out here in the country without any other relatives.
Except for his aunt’s misguided help, Theodora was alone in this fight to save her title and estate.
And his lovely, brave aunt wanted him to marry Thea. Last night’s conversation with Stella still haunted him today. Thea had experienced unbelievable hardship already in her life. Whatever help he could offer her, he’d do it in a heartbeat. He despised that Ferr-Colby intended to strip Thea of her title and her land.
They strolled through the maze, and Will caught himself glancing down at her every few steps. With the setting sun, her silky hair seemed to glow with an iridescence reminiscent of butterfly wings. The subtle shades shifted between a pink that matched her gown and the slightest hue of coral.
Theodora tilted her head. Those amazing eyes absorbed the purples and blues of the sky and reflected a light shade of indigo. He leaned closer, fully expecting her eyes to change color again. Abruptly, he pulled back. What was the matter with him? Never in his life had he felt a pull as powerful as the tempest that surrounded her.
He’d do well to remember not to stare too deeply at her eyes again. Much too dangerous for his tastes.
“Will?” she asked.
“Pardon me. I’m just woolgathering,” he answered.
“We should turn left here to see the fountain.” She slowed to a stop at a break in the hedgerow, and he allowed her to take the lead.
“Do you know the new duke?” he asked.
Thea’s grip tightened on his arm briefly. “Yes. As my grandfather’s heir, he visited several times when he was younger. Once he finished his university studies, he moved into one of my grandfather’s lesser estates.”
“I’m acquainted with your cousin,” Will offered. “We don’t socialize together.”
“What’s your opinion of him?” She led them through a turn to the right.
“Honestly, he reminded me of a prize mule. Particularly, when he constantly mentioned to everyone within five feet of him that he was the Duke of Ferr-Colby’s heir.”
Theodora giggled, then stopped when her adorable chortles of pleasure blossomed into full laughter. The sound reminded Will of wind chimes. All too soon, her humor lessened, but the most glorious smile lit her face. Good God, she’s beautiful. He took a step closer to bask in the warmth that surrounded her.
“You’re calling him an arse,” she announced.
He feigned a shocked look and placed his hand over his heart. “Me? I’m everything civil and affable.”
She lifted an eyebrow in challenge, but a grin graced her ruby lips.
“Some say I’m debonair,” he teased. He inched closer. She matched his movement.
“There’s not much call for that skill here in Northumberland, I’m afraid,” she countered as another winsome laugh escaped.
He slid closer until only a foot separated them. She gazed up, and the movement elongated her neck. From nowhere, a wild urge slammed into him and demanded he run his lips up the length of her sensitive skin.
“You might be surprised how valuable it can be.” His voice deepened. “Shall I show you how charming I really am?”
“You’re simply incorrigible.” She focused on his lips before her eyes darted to his. Instantly, her laughter dissolved. She glanced behind her. Somehow, they’d entered a row that led to a dead end. “How did we end up here?” she breathlessly whispered.
He stood still, not daring to move closer to her and her enchantment. “You led us here.”
Her gaze searched his. “I never understood why there are dead ends in mazes.”
“They’re here for a specific reason,” he said softly.
Her rapid breathing fanned across his lips like the beating wings of a hummingbird. “What’s that?” Her voice quivered slightly.
The slight pout of her lush mouth called to him, and the urge to rub his thumb across her lower lip grew in strength. Her lips were perfect like delectable pillows—plump, soft, and lush. “Kisses. They’re made so couples have a place to hide when they want to steal a kiss from each other.”
He almost fell to his knees when she licked her bottom lip as she considered his words.
“I wouldn’t know. I’ve never been kissed.” Her words barely made a sound.
Instantly, he wanted to be her first, the man who won the honor of kissing her.
What was he doing?
He made the mistake of glancing at her lips again, full and red and ready for his kiss. His conscience screamed no, but a desire with the devil’s own strength urged him to take what he wanted. Thankfully, he’d always been a reasonable man and listened to all sides of an argument.
Immediately, he rethought his position. His conscience had never steered him off course, but his heart had blindly led him down the wrong path all those years ago when he’d convinced himself he’d fallen in love. It had nearly destroyed him.
He wouldn’t inflict that type of pain on anyone else, particularly someone as vulnerable as Theodora.
“Theodora.” He wrestled the urge to kiss her under control. He’d not take advantage of her. But then that same rebellious curl that had taunted him yesterday diverted his attention to her face. Without thinking, he reached over and caressed the lock between his fingers. He caught her gaze. “It’s even softer than I had imagined.”
Her eyes widened, but she didn’t look away.
Gently, he brushed his fingers across her cheek, lingering against the warm skin before he tucked the curl behind her ear. “I should return to my aunt’s house.”
“May I show you something first? Years ago, my grandfather built it for me. This might be the last time I’ll visit it.” Her smile turned nostalgic. “I’ve never shown it to anyone outside of Ladykyrk, but I want to share it with you.”