I am an enthusiast in my notions of fidelity and fondness.
Alexander Hamilton in a letter to John Laurens describing the attributes of a perfect wife.
No doubt, Mr. Hamilton was referring to his favorite lapdog.
Lady Warwyk
For hours, she’d stared into the salon’s fire after tucking Thane’s throw around her. The solitude had allowed all those tumultuous thoughts to consume her. Every time she’d thought of Devan, an undeniable truth refused to leave her alone. Devan was so much more than she could imagine. She’d shared her innermost feelings with him, and he’d not condemned her or belittled her. If she’d done the same with Richard, he’d have laughed in her face. Perhaps he would have done it as a defensive gesture, but he would have mocked her until she grew silent or most likely, left the room.
Yet Devan had listened and asked questions until he understood everything she had expressed. Though he hurt the same as she did from their conversation, the strength of his words and wishes for them to build a happy life together flooded her with warmth. Finally, she allowed herself to fall asleep.
Much later, Avalon woke to a fire still blazing in the hearth. She’d come to a decision. It was time to let go of the past and embrace her future with her husband. She would do everything in her power to give him the life he wanted with her. Because she wanted that and so much more with him.
She stretched her hands over her head, then swung her feet to the ground, stubbing her toes against a mound of bricks. The bricks turned out to be her husband, who slept beside her on the floor.
“Devan?” Nothing but a mumble greeted her. “What are you doing down there? How can you sleep on the floor?”
With a groan, he opened his eyes and stared at her. With a grimace, he propped himself up on his elbows. His skin glowed from the light of the fire, which outlined the slight stubble of his evening beard. When he smiled, the dimples that kissed his cheeks appeared. Immediately, her breath caught. His green eyes seemed to shimmer with mirth. In answer, her heart thudded in her chest at the sight. It had to be her imagination, but the man grew more handsome every day.
“I wouldn’t call it sleep. I’d say the floor and I made our acquaintance. I’d get settled, then it would squeak. Then, I’d grumble, and it would squeak again.” He shrugged his shoulders, then leaned closer, propping one arm on a bent knee. “It was quite a lively conversation. I’m surprised I didn’t wake you up.”
She couldn’t help but laugh at his charming tale. “Why would you sleep there?”
Devan leaned closer as he took her hand and lifted it to his mouth. “Because wherever my wife sleeps, that’s where I sleep.”
His eyes never left hers as he pressed his lips against her skin. Her breath caught. For in that moment, she realized she’d married the man of her dreams. Though they’d argued, he didn’t want to be away from her. “I feel the same way. Thank you for staying with me.”
“You’re welcome.” He released her hand. “But might I make a suggestion? Can we finish the night in our bed?”
“That’s the least I could do to show my appreciation of your gallantry.” She grinned.
He stood slowly, then entwined their fingers together. Without hesitating, Avalon led him up the stairs to the state bedroom and entered. Whatever happened in the room would define her and Devan’s marriage for the rest of her days.
“In for a penny, in for a pound,” she whispered under her breath.
“If I may have a say, then let’s go for the pound,” he answered. He kicked the door closed as he pulled her into his arms for a kiss.
Though his words teased, the kiss was gentle and considerate. Before things progressed further, she pulled away and fiddled with the lapel of his banyan. “Tonight, I made some decisions. My marriage to Richard was my parents’ choice, but my marriage to you is mine. I’m going to do everything in my power to build a happy life and marriage for us.”
He dipped his head so their gazes met. “Good. You deserve all the happiness life can bring you.”
“I do. And so does my husband.” Avalon smiled. “I want to learn to trust,” she said softly.
“That’s an excellent start.” He took her hand to keep her from playing with the buttons of his coat, then held it to the middle of his chest. His eyes searched hers. “When you look at me, I want you to know that I only see you. I love you,” he murmured.
Blood rushed through her, causing a faint lighted-headedness much like riding a horse over an unfamiliar jump. All her life, she’d wanted to hear those words. She took a deep breath, hoping to hold on to this moment forever.
Devan’s gaze never faltered as he brushed her hair from her eyes. “I love you,” he repeated as if reassuring her.
Their bodies nestled against one another in a perfect fit. Like a starving person, she needed Devan. He was as vital to her well-being as air and water. For the first time in her life she felt tied to a man. She belonged to him, and he belonged to her. After so many lonely years, she’d not waste another night. “I love you,” she answered. “Let’s go to bed.”
Hours later, chest to chest, her heart pounded against his as if sharing all her secrets. This time, their lovemaking was as sweet and unhurried as a wandering bee discovering the new spring blossoms. The way they’d pleasured one another reminded her of something precious and sacred that only they could share together.
He swept a disobedient curl from her forehead, then pressed his lips in that same spot. “That curl reminds me of you. Willful. Rebellious. Defiant.”
“Be careful,” she whispered against his shoulder, then pressed her lips to his. “Such sweet nothings will go to my head.” She snuggled closer in his arms, then pressed a kiss in the middle of his chest where his heart resided. She traced a line down the middle of his torso, concentrating on the way his muscles contracted at her touch.
“Who do you think Thane favors?” He swept that belligerent curl behind her ear again, then cupped her cheek.
She turned her attention from his chest to him. “Why do you ask?”
“I think Thane looks like a Cavensham.” He bent his arm, resting on his elbow, then propped his head on his hand. “We probably need to think about how to tell Thane he has a brother.”
The words trailed to silence when she placed her fingers against his lip. “Please, let’s not talk about that.”
Devan’s knowing gaze studied her for a moment. “Are you going to tell him how Annie, Jasmine, Flora, and the others that came before them came to live here? How Mary Bolen had no one to turn to except you when they needed help, and that you didn’t hesitate?”
“He knows. Don’t make me out to be a patron saint.” Avalon stiffened slightly in his arms. “Taking them in was as much a benefit for me as it was for them. It gave me purpose.”
“How so?” he whispered as he trailed the back of his finger down her cheek.
“They had to sell their bodies, and my parents sold me.” She broke away from his embrace and settled on her back. Staring at nothing, she continued, “Of course, they faced unspeakable horrors that I could never imagine. Outside of disease, injury, did you know the establishment that Flora and Jasmine worked at was the cruelest to the women? The owner sold their virginity. They offered those women drugged out of their minds, like prized heifers at auction,” Avalon said softly. “I wanted to help them have a different life.”
Devan clasped her hand. “The Duke of Langham has been trying to close such entertainment down for years without any luck. There are members of the House of Lords who like to imbibe in such sickening entertainment. With any luck, the duke will succeed soon and shut those establishments down. Thane will one day be in the House of Lords. Once he’s ready to learn the truth, he could be another voice against such violence.”
“Thane is not ready to hear of such horrors now, but you’re right, I suppose.” She shrugged a shoulder. “Any way I can help women escape such pain, including Penelope, then it would mean that I had worth to someone.”
She could feel Devan’s warm gaze studying her. After a moment, he leaned and brushed his lips against hers. “You’ve always been important to me. But now, I realize how blessed I am with riches beyond comprehension.”
It was her turn to study him. She lay on her side and tucked a hand in between her head and her pillow.
“Never doubt your greatness, Avalon Farris.” He scooted close until they could stare into each other’s eyes. “Your generosity and ability to love are endless. I’m thankful every single day that God put me in your path.”
“Perhaps you should thank Penelope Rowley,” she whispered. “She’s the one that caused all this. Without her, I wouldn’t be wedded to a man whose patience and virtue are tremendously impressive. I’m thankful you said yes to marrying me.”
“My darling wife, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. You’ve bewitched me completely.” He tugged her close. “Let’s save our discussion of Penelope until the morning. I’ve a meeting at the vicarage after Thane’s lessons. Afterward, will you meet me for tea?”
Her sleepy reply was a yes. She yawned against his chest, his warm skin and strong arms reminding her that she was in the most perfect place on this earth—heaven.
The next morning, Avalon sat in the small breakfast room and lingered over a cup of tea while waiting for Devan to arrive.
“I’m going to the stables.” Thane crunched a bit of bacon. “Sadie had a new litter yesterday.”
“Sadie?” Devan entered the room.
Immediately, Avalon’s stomach fell like a flight of swallows swooping.
“The barn cat,” Thane said while nodding at Devan. He took a sip of milk. “She won’t allow anyone near her kittens except me.”
By then, Devan had come to stand by her side. “Good morning, wife. I hope you slept well,” he whispered. He kissed her cheek, then placed his hand over her thrumming fingers. She hadn’t even noticed that the nervous habit was making a racket. He gracefully sat next to her.
Thane cleared his throat. “Now that you’re both here, there is something I’d like to discuss.”
“What’s that?” Avalon smiled.
Thane looked to Devan, then back to Avalon. “I’d like to go to Eton.”
Avalon set her teacup on its saucer, a feat of monumental control when all she wanted to do was throw it across the room.
Before she could answer, her son continued, “Mother, with you marrying, you won’t be lonely when I leave.” As if the matter were settled, he turned to Devan. “I think I’ll be ready academically. My lessons are progressing nicely.”
“You are making progress,” Devan said cautiously. “But this is a big decision you and your mother should make.”
“Thane,” Avalon said. “About Eton.”
“All I’m asking is if you’ll consider it,” Thane said without a hint of irritation.
His cool demeanor reminded her that he was growing up more quickly than she realized. “That is fair enough. I shall give it some thought.”
“My lord, why don’t you go to the schoolroom,” Devan said. “I’ll be up shortly for our lesson. I have to drop off a basket at Mrs. Dozier’s home. We could do it together and ride over there.”
“It would be my pleasure.” Without any grumbling, Thane rose, then politely bowed to Avalon.
After her son took his leave, Avalon nodded discreetly to the attending footman. Immediately, he left the room.
“My goodness, he’s becoming more self-assured every day. Did you have any idea he was going to suggest this?”
Devan shook his head. “We haven’t discussed it since the first day I met him. You both should think on it. I know it troubles you, but it’s important to him.”
“It is.” Avalon sighed, then placed the serviette beside her plate. “But right now, I’d hoped we could discuss Penelope’s situation.”
Devan smiled, then took a sip of coffee. “I’ve been thinking about what we might do for her.”
“I have some ideas too, but you go first.” Avalon took a bite of toast.
“What if Larkton invites her to stay in London? He wouldn’t let a mouse inside without an invitation. My sister Elizabeth would keep her company.”
“That’s too dangerous for Elizabeth and Penelope. What if the servants talk about her pregnancy?” Without a sound, she drummed her fingers again on the table. “Your sister’s reputation could suffer.”
“Good point,” Devan agreed. “But I don’t think Elizabeth would care a whit. She’s strong-willed about how society treats women and babies born out of wedlock.”
Avalon nodded. It didn’t surprise her in the least that Devan’s little sister would be so gracious in her thoughts and deeds. “Elizabeth must take after you.”
“Thank God for that.” Devan ate a piece of bacon. “My brothers have the manners of a bull in a dining room, but they have good intentions.”
She laughed. His love for his family was endearing. “I was thinking about renting a cottage in Cornwall and sending Penelope there with Mrs. Marcy and Miss Marcy. The temperate climate might help Mrs. Marcy.”
“But what if Renford finds her? Those women will need protection. Perhaps Niall or Hearne could accompany them.” His brow crinkled into neat lines as he contemplated their options. “I wish Penelope would name the father. Mr. Rowley and I could have a conversation with him. If he’s unmarried, then we could encourage him to marry her.”
“I wish she would share who it is also. Perhaps I should have another conversation with her.” Avalon rubbed the small handle of her teacup as if it were a talisman and she was hoping for inspiration. “I’d thought about asking Mary Bolen if I could send her there. Her establishment is a regular fortress. I’m not certain her aunt and uncle would approve though.”
“What about Will and Thea’s residence in Northumberland?” He leaned forward and rested his elbows on the table. “Renford would never think to consider looking up there. Will and Thea would never let anything happen to Penelope. Their staff is small and settled in the area.”
Avalon beamed. “That’s brilliant. Do you think they’d do it for Penelope?”
“I know they would if we asked,” Devan answered. “Before you join me for tea this afternoon, I’ll write to them.”
“Let’s have a groomsman deliver it and wait for their reply. The quicker we get her away the better.” For the first time this morning, Avalon felt herself relax.
“I was thinking the same.” Devan stood, then rested one hand on the table as he kissed Avalon’s cheek. “I’ll take my leave.”
After he left, Avalon stood to start her day. She had a multitude of tasks to finish before the afternoon, including the estate bookkeeping she’d send to Larkton. Only then would she visit Flora and Jasmine. She wanted to show them the plans the architect had drafted for their workroom.
By early afternoon, she’d finished the bookkeeping, then set out to the village. Soon, she rounded the corner where the Thistledown church stood before her. Its tall steeple and rugged masonry reminded her of Devan. He’d quickly become the cornerstone of the community and her own life.
Unbelievable that only a week ago, they’d never even considered a life together.
“My lady,” a familiar voice called out.
When Avalon pivoted, she found Mrs. Rowley practically running up the path to meet her. “I don’t mean to interrupt you, but I was wondering if you’d seen Penelope?”
“Pardon?” she asked and waited for the poor woman to catch her breath.
“Penelope,” she answered. Her cheeks flushed a brilliant red from the cold and the exertion of her walk. “Her yellow curricle is gone from the stables. I thought perhaps she and Lady Sophia might be together.”
“I don’t believe so. Sophia planned to stay home today. I left word with my butler to see if she’d join me at Flora and Jasmine’s home later.”
“If you see my niece, will you tell her I’m looking for her?” She darted her worried gaze up and down the street. “Lord Renford informed us that he’s arriving tomorrow. We received word last night. I want to prepare her for his stay. He wants the vicar to call the first week of banns this Sunday. Mr. Rowley headed to London at first light to talk to Lord Renford about ending the engagement. I’m not certain it’ll work, but it’s the least we can do.”
Avalon took Mrs. Rowley’s hand in hers. “We don’t have much time. After I finish my visit, I’ll find Sophia and ask if she’s seen her.”
“Thank you, my lady.” Without a goodbye, Mrs. Rowley started toward the small pub at the end of the street.
Without wasting another minute, Avalon turned toward Flora and Jasmine’s house. After a knock, Flora stood at the door with a beautiful smile welcoming her. “Welcome, my lady.”
“Good afternoon.” Avalon lifted the roll of plans. “I brought the architect’s drawings for us to review.”
Soon, she was inside the comfy warm home. With little fanfare, she placed the plans on the table.
Jasmine rubbed her hands together. “I can’t wait to see what the rooms look like.”
Flora carefully unrolled the packet, then spread the bundle across their table. “Look at the windows.” She pointed to the south part of the workshop, where there were chairs arranged in a cozy sitting area along a bank of windows.
“It’ll be perfect light for sewing and minimize the strain to the eyes,” Jasmine offered. She pointed to a row of built-in cabinets. “Those look big enough to hold the bolts of fabric.”
As the two women reviewed the drawings and chatted, Avalon strolled to the window. Outside, there was no sign of her sister. “I hope you don’t mind, but I asked Sophia to meet me here.”
Flora waved her hand in the air. “We actually thought you were her at the door. She came by this morning and forgot her embroidery basket.”
Avalon whipped her gaze to the women. “Sophia was already here?”
“Yes,” Flora answered.
“Was Penelope with her? Mrs. Rowley is looking for her. I told her I’d ask Sophia if she’s seen her.”
Jasmine looked up from the drawing she was carefully studying, then frowned. “We haven’t seen Penelope. But we had the strangest conversation with Lady Sophia earlier today.”
“What kind of a conversation?”
“She wanted to know about our previous work,” Flora said as she poured herself a cup of tea. “Ma’am, would you like a cup?”
Avalon shook her head.
“Specifically, where she could find Mary Bolen’s bawdy house in London,” Jasmine said.
Flora nodded. “She asked if we felt safe at Miss Bolen’s White Dove.”
Avalon widened her eyes. “You didn’t work there. Why would she want to know that information?”
Jasmine shrugged her shoulders. “We stayed there until you brought us to Thistledown.”
Avalon stood, slowly thinking. How odd for Sophia to be asking such questions. They’d discussed Mary Bolen several times, but Sophia had never asked about Mary’s business. “Let me leave the plans with you.”
“We’ll bring them back tomorrow,” Flora said.
“Enjoy your tea with that handsome husband of yours,” Jasmine called out.
Avalon stopped suddenly. “I didn’t mention anything about tea with the vicar.”
Flora chuckled. “Lady Sophia told us that you were having tea at the vicarage this afternoon.”
The only way Sophia could have known she was having tea with Devan this afternoon was if she’d been outside the breakfast room this morning listening to their conversation about Penelope. After hearing about her earlier conversation with Flora and Jasmine and the fact that Penelope was missing, the only conclusion was that Sophia planned to take Penelope to Mary Bolen’s White Dove in London.
With a brief farewell, Avalon left the ladies. She had to talk with Devan. She glanced at the darkened skies where intermittent flashes of lightning streaked across the horizon. However, all she could think about was Sophia.
If only she were a warlock, she could fly to Devan instead of walking briskly, then swoop them both to London immediately.