The Sea Lord: Devils of the Deep

by McQueen, Hildie

  It turned out, even if his family was not as large as Gailyn’s, that his homecoming was just as heartwarming.

  Chapter Nine

  The gardens had always been Gailyn’s favorite place to clear her mind. In another week, she would turn twenty-nine. She’d never imagined that she’d not be married with at least two children by then. And yet, it wasn’t as if she could place the blame on anyone but herself.

  She’d been too picky. And since her family had not urged her to marry, the years had passed quickly.

  A week had passed since she’d last seen Captain MacAlpin, or better yet, Lord Kevin Chatterton. He’d not sent word regarding any plans to visit and, in her heart, she knew she’d never see him again.

  Since the king had granted his pardon, he would probably proceed as planned and live at his Cornwall estate.

  Aboard the Moira, he’d told her of his plans to split his time between Cornwall and the sea. Kevin had no plans to return to piracy whether pardoned or not. He’d found it was just as profitable to buy and sell spices and silks from faraway lands. She’d been glad to hear it and hoped he found happiness.

  “Miss Brighton.” Her maid appeared. “Do you require anything? I’m about to go to the market with Cook.”

  She smiled at poor Maddie, who’d yet to stop apologizing and fussing over her like a mother hen. “See if you can find some exotic tea. Perhaps something fruity.”

  Maddie grinned, loving the adventure of a search. “I will, Miss.” She practically skipped away.

  Gailyn followed her maid’s progress, noticing that a man appeared. The gentleman spoke to Maddie. They were a bit too far away for her to make out his features, and he was partly turned away from her. The dark blue fabric of his form-fitting riding jacket took her attention. He was tall and well formed. He seemed at ease and was graceful as he walked toward her.

  It was then she recognized him.

  Kevin.

  He’d cut his hair to his shoulders and it was brushed away from his handsome face. Kevin wore a cravat and riding boots, cutting an elegant picture of refinement. He looked so very different. Upon meeting his gaze, she was relieved to see that the dangerous gleam of a pirate remained.

  Too breathless to speak, Gailyn waited for him to come closer. Each step that brought him near echoed in her chest. Eyes locked to hers, Kevin finally stopped just mere inches from her. She could tell he was fighting to keep from touching her.

  “You came,” Gailyn said and threw herself against him, her arms around his waist. “I thought I’d never see you again.”

  “I’m glad you’re happy to see me,” he replied and chuckled. The deep sound resonated against her ear. “I missed you, as well.”

  He held Gailyn just for a moment before taking her by the shoulders and pushing her away, just enough. “I wouldn’t wish your male relatives to hang me from one of these trees.” Kevin looked up at the tall oak. “How are you?”

  The question, although reasonable, annoyed her. There were other things to discuss than her obviously being well. If he brought up the weather, she would kick him.

  “I’m well.” She tapped her foot. “And you?”

  The corners of his lips twitched just enough to let her know he was well aware of her irritation.

  “I’m quite well.”

  There was so much to say. And although he’d made some decisions before coming to see Gailyn, Kevin wasn’t sure how to go about it. If he were to ask for her hand in marriage, did one speak to the woman first? Or was it best to speak to her father?

  A messenger had arrived the night before. Apparently, the king had been in a good mood and had granted not only Kevin’s pardon but also almost half of his crew.

  The fact Gailyn’s father had interceded on his behalf and that Kevin had been working for the crown helped immensely. The missive had also stated it was strongly suggested he continue in his service to the crown. Of course, he’d continue, but it would be something occasional.

  Right now, his focus was on spending as much time as possible with his family. To become reacquainted with his father and brother as well as the affairs of the estate were of paramount importance. Additionally, he’d promised his mother to attend every social event in the upcoming season with her.

  Anton had grinned wickedly. “I’m glad there are two of us now because mother attends a great number of events.”

  “Should we go inside? I don’t wish to do anything improper,” Kevin told Gailyn.

  The beauty studied him for a moment with a slight frown. “I have questions for you. We can remain here. My family doesn’t stand on society’s rules so strictly. We are a forward thinking bunch, I suppose.” She smiled softly, rendering him completely helpless to protest.

  How could he ever hope to survive a day without speaking to her? Kevin had always wondered what love felt like, to be so enamored with another person that your mind refused the thought of not being part of their life.

  He’d always scoffed at the idea, thought it a made up thing people used as excuses for poor judgment or behavior. Now he understood because, at the moment, if Gailyn asked him to fall on his sword, he would absolutely do so without hesitation.

  Then again, he was probably being melodramatic. He’d ensure his death was for a good cause, of course.

  “What are you thinking about?” Gailyn peered up at him. “You’ve gone somewhere else. Oh, pity, that I can’t hold your attention but for mere seconds.”

  It was impossible not to laugh when noting her teasing tone. “I’m sorry. I was thinking of you, actually.”

  “Of me?” She cocked her head sideways and opened her mouth to say something, but was interrupted by voices.

  “Ah, there you are.” Her mother bustled toward them. Another woman, one of the aunts, did her best to keep up. “You must join us in the parlor, Lord Chatterton. We are about to have tea. Cook made the most delicious cake.”

  Gailyn nodded in agreement. “We are blessed to have such a wonderful baker in our home. You will never want to miss another meal after tasting her pastries.”

  The softness of her hand on his arm as he escorted the ladies inside made him almost falter.

  Instantly, he relived the one time he’d had her in his arms. Kevin did his best not to ponder it. This was not the right moment. It was best to be totally present so that he could proceed with his reason for being there.

  “Tell us, Lord Chatterton, what are your plans now that you’ve been pardoned? You are the talk of the ton and everyone is waiting on bated breath for your first appearance at the ball tomorrow night,” Lady Brighton remarked, making the aunt, Gailyn, and her father all look to him.

  This was not how he’d planned to ask for Gailyn’s hand. Then again, he’d not really planned. He’d asked his father who was more alert and seemed to have regained some strength since his arrival.

  He had been most unhelpful. “I think if the girl is willing to marry you, you should speak to her father to ensure he agrees before you announce it.”

  What did that even mean?

  When someone tapped his or her foot, probably Gailyn, he replied, “I don’t plan to make my appearances alone. Mother has made me promise to accompany her to every event.”

  “So you will remain in London then?” It was the aunt that asked. Gailyn remained silent, her eyes moving from his face to the others.

  “Yes, for now. I have an estate in Cornwall to look after that I must check on. After I do that, I have other plans.”

  Gailyn met his gaze. “Return to life at sea then?” Her voice was flat, without inflection, which was not like her at all.

  Still unsure, he went with what he thought was the best thing to do and looked to Lord Brighton. “Sir, may I speak to you in private?”

  At this point, a squeal sounded. It was Gailyn’s sister, who stood in the doorway clapping. “What did I miss?”

  “We best proceed,” Lord Brighton said. “Else the females will keep you here for hours.”

  Lord
Brighton poured brandy for them and then settled into an overstuffed chair, motioning for Kevin to do the same.

  “What is this about, Lord Chatterton? Or should I say Captain MacAlpin?”

  “I will be forgoing the name of MacAlpin. It has served me well, but I no longer do it the justice it deserves.”

  The man looked astounded. “You speak as if being a pirate was honorable.”

  “For me it is. My life as captain of the Moira gave me back my dignity and sense of self after years of being treated like an animal… a thing. The acts I committed could be called reprehensible, however, I made it my creed never to punish or mistreat innocents.”

  Lord Brighton did not know his full story. The only person he’d shared with more than most was Gailyn and even she would never know the full extent of it. It was best to leave the past where it lay. He’d accomplished much and was now about to embark on a new life.

  “What do you wish to speak to me about, young man,” the lord asked, his keen gaze meeting Kevin’s. “You wish to marry my daughter then?”

  Was it that obvious? How besotted was he with her?

  “Yes. I do, actually. I am here to ask for her hand.”

  The man smiled. “She asked you to marry her. Gailyn told us. I always knew when and if she married, it would be a man that we’d find most surprising and not at all who we’d want for her.”

  “Then you are not in agreement?” His stomach sank knowing that as close as Gailyn was to her family, she’d never go against their wishes. “I do love her.”

  “Good,” Lord Brighton stated, slapping the armchair with his left hand. “Then it’s settled.”

  “Settled? You give your permission then?” Did everyone speak in riddles in London?

  Lord Brighton shuddered. “I can’t imagine not. Gailyn, my wife, and the rest of the females in this family would make my life miserable.” He chuckled. “And don’t take affront at my comment about not wishing you as a husband. I know you are brave and honorable. It’s just that I don’t wish for my daughter to spend months on end waiting for your return from the sea.”

  He nodded in understanding. “I will make it a priority to remain more months on land than out to sea. I give you my word.”

  “See that you keep it, young man. See that you do.”

  When they returned to the parlor, every face turned to them. The expectant expressions looked to Lord Brighton, who shook his head. “They are an incorrigible bunch.”

  It was then he noticed Gailyn’s absence. “Where is Gailyn?” he asked.

  Her mother motioned to the doorway. “Out there on the balcony getting fresh air.”

  Chapter Ten

  The bell jingled as Edgar entered The Tattered Page. He carried a small parcel with a sweet cake and a small jar of honey. In his huge hands, the items seemed a paltry offering, but he knew Rachel would be delighted.

  Her face brightened at seeing him. But she continued assisting a customer who purchased a pile of books and other items.

  It was good to see that the bookstore did brisk business. She and her mother made a living off of the sales and didn’t seem to have much need. From what he’d gathered, they lived above the bookstore where they had two bedrooms and a small kitchen.

  Finally, the customer left and one other in the room, an old man, was engrossed in a thick tome. It was either that or he’d fallen asleep.

  “I believe Mr. Townsend is napping,” Rachel said with a soft giggle. “He comes in regularly to get away from his wife.”

  His chest tightened when she met his gaze. “Are you leaving again soon?”

  “Aye, I’m taking the ship out for a month or so. We will be leaving in two days.”

  Her stricken expression emboldened him. “Rachel, will you wait for me?”

  “Wait?” she lifted her gaze to him. “What do you mean?”

  “Marry me,” he blurted, sure it was the worst way to propose. With a sweet cake and honey and not even lowering to his knee. Edgar quickly put the items onto a small table, lowered to the floor and took her hands in his. “I promise to be faithful and return only to you.”

  She leaned forward and placed a soft kiss to his lips, sending a bolt of lightning down his spine. “You are an outlaw. You are wanted by the authorities, or so you’ve told me. I will marry you only if you vow not to continue in that life.”

  “I vow it. I will be honorable and honest for you,” he offered without hesitation.

  Rachel’s smile made him grin like a loon. “That is wonderful. And what of your upcoming travel… in two days?”

  He smiled. “We’re going to the Caribbean to purchase spices.”

  When she didn’t seem convinced, he took her hand and guided her to the window. “The Moira is in dock. White sails in place. Captain MacAlpin has been pardoned by the king and has given most of the crew free leave to either stay in England or leave without fear of imprisonment.”

  “Most?” she asked, looking to him. “Are you pardoned?”

  “I am not English, Rachel. I am not wanted in my country and I doubt there are any records of my person here. However, in a sense, yes, I can continue to come and go as I please.”

  “What of those men who are not pardoned?”

  “They have left already or will be leaving soon. Most did not stay around to wait as they were aware there would be no pardons for them.”

  She leaned against him and he placed his arm around her. Edgar kissed her temple. “I will purchase a townhouse for us. Your mother as well, of course. If we marry tomorrow, I will leave on the following day, anxious to return to you.”

  Rachel moved away from Edgar and looked up at him. “I’ve loved you since the first day I saw you.”

  “A month ago?”

  “No, it was last winter. I was huddled in the corner, where Mr. Townsend is now. I watched you from behind my book as you chatted with Mother. In that instant, I knew if ever I had a chance to see you again, you and I would become friends.”

  “And then, as you said to me the last time I was here, you went to help care for your sister’s children and were gone the next few times I came by.”

  She nodded. “Yes. Although I often asked Mother about you.”

  He lowered his head and pressed his lips over hers. “You haven’t answered my question.”

  “Yes. I will marry you, Edgar McGregor.”

  Rachel let out a happy squeal when her mother rushed to them. “I had to try so very hard to keep from letting you know I was listening.” She hugged Edgar. “I am so very pleased that you’ll become the son I never had.”

  “What is going on?” Mr. Townsend snapped. “I can’t read for all the noise.”

  The breeze fanned over her face as Gailyn looked up at the sky. She needed fortification to face Kevin. He’d let her know he would not marry her and ask that they remain friends. Just the thought of those words made tears spring to her eyes.

  No, she wouldn’t cry. She refused to act like some love-besotted ninny who cried and swooned when a gentleman rejected her affections.

  She’d face him with quiet dignity and do her best not to slap or kick him. Not because she was a violent person, but because she was hurt and angry. How could it be that she’d finally met the man that lured her from her self-imposed spinsterhood and he did not return her affections?

  Surely it was punishment for the many men she’d rejected over the years. Now she knew what it felt like to be brokenhearted.

  His footsteps were assured and steady as he closed the distance between them. Kevin moved with the grace of a man well in tune with his own body. It reminded her of a predator in the way he looked at her when coming closer. She almost smiled at him.

  Then, ever so slowly, she forced the corners of her lips up because it wouldn’t do to look like a sourpuss. If anything, he’d wonder why she was not affected at all by his refusal to marry her.

  “Where are you? You seem far away.” He neared and looked down at her with so much warmth in his gaze that
she almost began crying. “Tell me, what are you pondering?” He tapped her chin with one finger.

  Gailyn tilted her face up. “I’m considering how to deal with the situation at hand. Hopefully, I can remain with grace and not embarrass my family.” She glanced past his shoulder to the doorway where her sister, mother, and aunt watched. Her eyes widened upon noting her father standing just behind them.

  She studied Kevin’s face. “What did you tell my father?”

  “I didn’t tell him anything, per se. I asked him…”

  “Please don’t tell me you want to sponsor that silly hunting club of his.” She shook her head from side to side, only to note every pair of eyes on them widened.

  Narrowing her eyes this time, she looked back to Kevin. “What did you do?”

  “If you would allow me to speak, Miss Brighton. Here, give me your hand.” He took her left hand in both of his and lowered to one knee as she felt her knees go to jelly.

  “Gailyn Aurora Brighton, will you do me the honor of accepting to be my wife? You see, I find I cannot possibly live without you at my side.”

  She had to blink to see clearly as her vision swayed and there were two Kevins on bended knees. Then she shook her head to keep from swooning or allowing her annoying knees to give out.

  “Of course I will marry you,” she exclaimed. “You know I will. I’d already asked you.”

  When he straightened, Gailyn threw her arms around him. And not caring that her family watched on, she pressed her lips to his in a deep kiss conveying the desire that burned deep within her.

  Her family rushed out, not caring that she and Kevin knew they’d watched the entire time. Gailyn laughed, allowing their hugs and kisses.

  “We’ll have the biggest engagement party of the season,” Aunt Repurtina announced.

  “Don’t be silly. The announcement must be made first,” her mother replied as a cousin joined them and her sister followed, along with the others.

  “A dinner then? Or a tea?” her sister asked.