Randall glanced down at Julia, humor lurking in his eyes. “In that case, tell them Major Randall and his wife have just arrived.”
Holmes was so startled he actually raised his brows before saying, “Indeed I shall.” He bowed and withdrew.
“That will bring them both quickly,” Julia predicted as she removed her bonnet. “Especially Mariah.”
Her prediction was accurate. By the time she’d removed her cloak, swift light footsteps were approaching. The duchess called merrily, “Randall, you rogue. Did you change your mind about my sister Sarah and whisk her off to Gretna Green?”
Mariah swept into the entry hall, her sunny nature filling the high-ceilinged hall with golden warmth. Dark and reserved, Ashton was several steps behind, but his smile was equally welcoming.
On seeing the new arrivals, the duchess stopped so quickly that her husband almost ran into her. “Julia! You and Randall have married?”
“Indeed we have,” Julia said mildly.
“Adam, you owe me five guineas!” Mariah launched herself into Julia’s arms with an exuberant hug. “I told you Randall fancied her.”
“Whereas I, being a mere male, thought they disliked each other.” Ashton clapped Randall’s shoulder as they shook hands. “Kind of you to bring Mariah’s best friend into the family, Randall.”
“Julia didn’t seem interested, but after she repaired my bad leg, I decided I must marry her so she’d be available the next time I damaged myself,” Randall explained.
“You are walking rather well.” Ashton’s green eyes showed amusement. “I quite see why you’d want Julia. It’s more surprising that she said yes.”
Julia was reminded that the duke was a remarkably perceptive man. “I was content with widowhood, but Randall changed my mind.” She made a face. “There were…extenuating circumstances.”
“That sounds interesting,” Mariah said. “Take a few minutes to freshen up, then join us for dinner. No need to change. We’re very informal tonight.”
“Ten minutes then.” Randall offered Julia his arm. To the footman, he said, “Place Lady Julia’s bags in my rooms.”
“Lady Julia?” Mariah exclaimed.
“I told you it was complicated!” Julia tossed over her shoulder as they headed up the staircase.
She hadn’t seen Randall’s rooms when she’d visited Ashton House earlier in the year, so she looked around with interest when he ushered her into the sitting room. It was spacious and well furnished in restful shades of blue and cream, with windows overlooking the garden behind the house. “This is lovely! No wonder you’re so comfortable here.”
“It’s incredibly generous of Ash to allow me to treat the house as my own,” Randall agreed. “The bedroom is through there and that door leads to a dressing room.”
The dressing room door opened and a wiry, dark-haired young man emerged, one of Randall’s coats folded over his arm. “Welcome home, Major.” Then he saw Julia. He knew her from the earlier trip to London, and his expression was vivid with curiosity as he bowed a welcome. “Mrs. Bancroft. It’s a pleasure, ma’am.”
“No longer Mrs. Bancroft.” Randall placed his hand in the small of her back. “She’s now Lady Julia Randall. My wife.”
Julia knew that valets often felt jealous when their masters married, but luckily she and Gordon had been on friendly terms. Though his expression was startled, he didn’t appear upset. “Congratulations, sir!” He bowed again. “Will I be meeting your lady’s maid soon, Lady Julia?”
“It’s good to see you again, Gordon.” After a dozen years of looking after herself, Julia had half-forgotten that a maid would be expected. “I haven’t a maid at the moment, but I imagine I will be looking for one soon.” She glanced at her husband.
Randall nodded. “Since you’ll be acquiring a new wardrobe, a maid is essential.”
The thought of interviewing applicants made Julia feel tired. “Perhaps the duchess has a junior maid ready for a promotion.”
Gordon looked hopeful. “I know a young female who might be suitable, Lady Julia. She isn’t as experienced as some, but she’s good with clothes, expert with a needle, and she’s bright and good-natured and willing.”
Randall grinned. “Is this the girl whose praises you sang throughout Portugal?”
Gordon blushed. “Yes, sir. But truly, I think Elsa would suit you, Lady Julia.”
“Then I shall certainly interview her,” Julia agreed.
“Thank you, my lady! She can call tomorrow afternoon for an interview.” He ducked his head. “Your bags have been delivered. You’ll be sharing these rooms?”
“We will indeed,” Randall replied. “After you’ve unpacked us both, you may have the evening off. It’s been a long journey and we’ll retire early.”
“Yes, sir!” Gordon left the fresh coat over the back of a chair and withdrew.
As soon as they were alone, Randall drew her into a hug. “I expect he’ll be off to tell the fair Elsa that they might be able to work in the same household. I could tell you more than you would ever want to know about the girl, her appearance, her relations, and how she and Gordon met.”
Julia laughed. “Then I hope she will do.” She relaxed into Randall, loving the growing familiarity of his embrace, his scent, and strength. “With any encouragement, I’ll go to sleep here,” she murmured.
“You need food and good company, both of which are waiting downstairs.” His hands stroked over her hips, pressing her closer. “The trip was tiring, but easy compared to all we have to do here in London. I shall be glad of an early night.”
Recognizing that it wasn’t sleep he had in mind, she said hesitantly, “I shall also be glad to sleep.”
Hearing her unspoken reservations, he said, “As you wish.”
She felt his embrace change subtly. It was still affectionate, but no longer anticipating more. “You’re so patient with my foot dragging,” she said ruefully. “I keep thinking a soldier would want to conquer.”
He laughed. “A soldier needs patience more than the ability to attack. I was prepared to spend a year hoping you would be willing to lie with me, so I think we’re progressing very well.”
“That’s true,” she said thoughtfully. “In another fortnight, my skittishness might be gone forever and you can seduce me whenever you choose.”
“I’m hoping that a fortnight after that, you’ll be seducing me.” He kissed the sensitive spot under her left ear.
She caught her breath as desire curled through her. Though she’d never imagined initiating intimacy herself, the idea was as intriguing as it was bold. “An interesting thought, Alexander. For now, though, we should freshen up and join our hosts.”
“How much do you want them to know?” Randall asked as he released her and peeled off the coat he’d worn all day.
She considered. “Everything but the most sordid bits, I suppose. Not about the scarring and my…barrenness, but they should know about the kidnapping and the circumstances of Branford’s death.”
“They can be trusted with as much truth as you want to reveal.” He poured water into the basin so he could wash his face. After drying himself, he added, “I assume that the public story will be more discreet? We need to agree on the details.”
Julia brushed out her hair and tied it back, intensely grateful to have friends she could trust to be on her side. Randall was the first among those friends, but Mariah and Ashton were close behind. “The world can be told that Branford died of injuries from a fall, which is true. I was so devastated that I ran away and let everyone believe I was dead, which is a kind of truth.”
“True enough to be easy to remember,” Randall agreed. “What shall we use for the official story of our marriage?”
“We can say we met in Hartley and I revealed who I was after learning you were my late husband’s cousin.” She splashed water on her face. “After a dozen years of mourning, I was ready to consider marriage again, and how could I resist you?”
Randall rolled
his eyes. “Remember that we should keep close to the truth. The fewer details, the better. Since you didn’t go out socially when you were in London earlier, you will be an intriguing surprise to society.”
Julia had been teasing a bit when she said he was irresistible, but it was true. As she enjoyed the way the light linen shirt revealed his lean, powerful body, she recognized that any normal woman would have been riveted at first sight. Julia hadn’t been normal when they met—but her female nature was recovering steadily.
Randall pulled on the fresh coat, then offered his arm and they headed downstairs to join the Ashtons in the small salon. Mariah looked radiant when they arrived.
Julia studied her friend as she and Randall entered, recognizing that radiance. “You’re increasing!”
“How do you know?” Mariah exclaimed. “But of course you would. I’m so glad you’re here. I’m delighted but a little panicked.”
“The same is true of me!” Ashton added fervently.
Suppressing painful envy, Julia said reassuringly, “Having babies is the most natural thing in the world. You’ll manage splendidly.”
“Congratulations!” Randall shook Ashton’s hand, then kissed Mariah’s cheek. “Your families must be quite pleased.”
“They will be when they learn,” Mariah agreed. “We hadn’t told anyone yet. But I’m glad Julia guessed so I can talk about it!”
“Now that our news has been shared, shall we drink a round of sherry in a fashionable sort of way,” the duke asked, “or fall ravenously on our dinners?”
“The latter! I’m ravenous all the time now.” Mariah made a face. “Except in the mornings, when I’m green.”
Laughing, both couples moved into the family dining room, which was much cozier than the majestic state dining room. Conversation was general and lighthearted until the meal was finished. After Mariah ordered tea for the ladies and port for the gentlemen, Ashton waved away the servants so they could talk privately. “About those complications? Unpleasant ones, I gather.”
Randall glanced at Julia. She nodded at him to start the story.
“The first complication was arriving in Hartley to learn that Julia had just been abducted.” Having captured the attention of the Ashtons, he kept them riveted as he tersely described rescuing Julia, and their marriage in Edinburgh. The duke’s eyes narrowed, a reminder that his mildness concealed a core of steel.
When Randall finished, Mariah said in a hushed voice, “Thank heaven you visited Hartley at the right time. Would Daventry have murdered Julia?”
“I don’t think he would plan to kill her in cold blood. But if he lost his temper…” Randall shook his head, expression grave. “Julia, you knew him. What do you think he intended to do if Crockett brought you to him?”
“I presume Daventry ordered the abduction so he could scream and swear and tell me what a wicked woman I am.” Julia tried to sound calm, as if the subject was no more important than the weather. “He probably didn’t plan murder, but he might easily have lost control.”
Ashton asked, “Will Daventry drop his persecution when he learns Julia is his heir’s wife?”
“I think so,” Randall replied in a steely voice, “but I’m not sure. If he won’t—well, I will do what is necessary to protect my wife. He should be in London now, so I’ll send a message and ask him to receive me at his earliest convenience.”
Julia took a deep breath. “When you call on him, I’m going with you.”
Randall frowned. “Daventry is going to explode in all directions when he learns I’ve married you. Your presence will make it even worse.”
“I might as well get the meeting over with.” Her smile was rueful. “If we’re both going to be mauled by the encounter, it might be easier if we’re together.”
His expression eased. “You’re probably right.”
“Enough of problems. It’s time to discuss amusements,” Mariah announced. “We must introduce you both to society with a ball. In about a fortnight, which will allow time to have a truly splendid gown made, Julia. I’ll arrange for the modiste to call here. Randall, you must wear your uniform. The sight of you in your regimentals is enough to make strong women swoon.”
Randall groaned at her words, though Julia privately agreed. Ignoring him, Mariah continued, “Adam, is our social credit strong enough to overcome Castleton’s disowning Julia?”
“I believe so.” Ashton smiled fondly at his wife. “Castleton isn’t very popular, whereas you, my golden duchess, are all the rage in the polite world.”
“Golden duchess?” Randall asked.
“The beau monde loves to give nicknames.” Mariah grinned. “Considering my rather dubious upbringing, I find it vastly amusing to be considered fashionable.”
A thought occurred to Julia. “Would it help if my grandmother is co-hostess? That would demonstrate that not all my family has cast me off.”
Mariah nodded. “An excellent idea. Who is your grandmother?”
“The Dowager Duchess of Charente.”
Ashton, who knew London society best, burst into laughter. “The most exclusive, reclusive, and sought after noblewoman in London! Her presence will surely smooth your way if she’s willing to cooperate.”
Randall’s brows arched. “I see that you weren’t joking about having the bluest blood in England, milady.”
Julia shrugged. “To me, she is simply Grandmère. She said during my earlier visit that it was time I returned to the world, so she will approve of your efforts, Mariah.”
Her friend’s eyes gleamed. “Society is a game, and we’ve just been dealt the cards to make this the most talked about ball of the autumn season!”
Chapter 21
Randall sent a note to Daventry first thing the next morning, explaining that he had married and would like to bring his wife to call. His uncle replied immediately, setting a time that very afternoon.
When Randall handed Julia into an Ashton carriage, his wife said admiringly, “You look so calm. I’d be biting my nails if I wasn’t wearing gloves.”
He grimaced. “If I look calm, it’s a lie. When I was a boy and sent to live in Daventry’s household, he was God and the devil rolled into one. I preferred playing least in sight to engaging pitched battles, so I am not looking forward to this.”
His uncle had definitely played the devil when Randall lay dying in the attic of Daventry House. Was it possible to have a civil, adult relationship with the man? Probably not. Marrying Julia might end his relationship with his uncle forever.
If so, good riddance. “You were right to come,” he told her. “We can face him better together than separately.”
She gave a tight smile when he took her hand. Even in gloves, her fingers were icy. They didn’t speak for the rest of the journey.
When they reached Daventry House, Julia gripped Randall’s arm after emerging from the carriage. “I hate this house,” she said under her breath as they started up the steps. “Branford and I stayed here for several days after the wedding before moving to his estate near Bristol.”
Randall didn’t like to think what her wedding night and honeymoon had been like. “I’m not fond of the place, either. I believe it’s part of the entailed estate and can’t be sold, but no reason why the house can’t be leased out after I inherit. We can choose a home that we like.”
Her expression lightened. “What a splendid idea!”
They reached the door, which swung open to admit them. The butler bowed respectfully. “Lord and Lady Daventry will receive you and your wife in the morning room, Major Randall.”
If the countess was present at the meeting, his uncle must have decided to treat his heir with courtesy. Randall wondered how long that would last after Daventry recognized Julia.
They were ushered into the morning room. The Countess of Daventry sat behind a tea tray. The earl’s third wife was an attractive blonde of middle years with natural elegance and calm reserve. She nodded a welcome to the newcomers but didn’t rise.
/> Daventry dominated the room. Tall, white-haired, and forceful, he always reminded Randall of a sputtering rocket on the verge of ignition. He rose when Randall and Julia entered. Julia lagged a little behind Randall, and he guessed that she was delaying the moment when recognition became inevitable.
“Good day, Randall,” Daventry said stiffly. “I had expected you to consult with me over your choice of a bride. I trust you chose a suitable female.”
Clamping down familiar resentment at his uncle’s domineering ways, Randall replied, “I’m the one who must live with my wife, so I thought the choice should be mine. But there is no question she has the breeding you require of the next countess. Uncle, Lady Daventry, allow me to introduce my wife, Lady Julia Randall.”
Julia stepped forward so that she was in clear view of her father-in-law. “Good day, Lord Daventry, Lady Daventry.”
The countess smiled pleasantly and returned the greeting, but the earl froze at the sight of Julia. “Damn you, boy!” Daventry gasped. “How dare you bring that murderess into my house! Is this some vile joke?”
Randall’s temper kicked up several notches, but he maintained his control. “Not at all, sir. Julia and I were married in Edinburgh.”
Daventry swore with vicious fluency. “I thought you’d finally grown up enough to recognize your responsibilities. Instead you married the bitch who murdered my son!”
It was time to set the record straight. Randall took Julia’s hand, not sure which of them needed the comfort more. Her face was white, but she didn’t drop her gaze despite the fury raging around her.
“Branford’s death was an accident caused when Julia was fighting for her life,” Randall said flatly. “He was a monster, Daventry, though you have always refused to see the truth. He hurt people for pleasure. I felt lucky to escape your household with my life. Julia very nearly died at your son’s hands.”
“You lie!” Daventry roared. “Branford was the best of sons, respectful and obedient. You were always jealous of his strength and superiority. How dare you slander him when he isn’t here to defend himself!”
Never Less Than a Lady Page 15
