Miss Marleigh's Pirate Lord (Regency House Party: Havencrest Book 1)

by Mindy Burbidge Strunk

  She took one last deep breath and moved down the path to the left. Torches lit the walkway, providing almost as much light as the chandeliers inside.

  Abigail paused on the path. Wrapping her arms around her middle, she looked up into the sky. The earlier clouds had blown by, leaving the sky full of stars. Had Alex ever stood on the deck of his ship looking up at these same stars? Was he looking at them tonight? Was he even still alive? The thought was almost crushing.

  “Shiver me timbers, you are a sight for sore eyes.” The deep, rich voice jerked her around.

  Alex stood on the path, leaning heavily on his walking stick, but looking very much alive.

  Abigail rushed forward, throwing her arms around him. “Oh, Alex. You are well.” She rested her head on his chest. Her throat tightened and the jerky sobs she had been pushing down broke free at last. “I believed…I would never…see you again.”

  His arms came around her, pulling her into him and she felt as if a warm rug enveloped her, taking a deep chill away. His deep chuckle sounded beneath her cheek. “With such a greeting, I shall endeavor to go away more often.”

  She breathed in deeply. The smell of cedarwood calming her, making everything right again.

  He dropped his chin lightly onto the top of her head. “It seems, once again, I owe you my life.”

  Abigail shook her head against his chest. “What happened to you? I have been so worried.” She lifted her head and looked over her shoulder. “What of Sir Richard? Is he here?”

  Alex smiled and nodded. “We came together. I certain he went in search of Lady Cartwright.”

  “How did you escape? What of the men who took you? Did they harm you?”

  Again he chuckled. “I hardly know which question to answer first.”

  She pulled away and looked up at him. Where did they stand? Was Alex still a hunted man? Or did his return mean they could actually be together? Abigail took a step back. “I’m sorry. I forgot we are not to be seen together.”

  His jaw began to work as he stared at her, as if memorizing every detail of her. Her heart sank. This meeting only to say goodbye. Abigail clasped her hands in front of her, wringing them tightly together, trying to warm them from the sudden cold that had settled in them.

  As if reading her mind, he reached out and grabbed her arms gently; bringing her close to him again. “Sir Richard and the Royal Navy came just in the nick of time, saving me and Mr. Carper from certain death.”

  Abigail let out a little gasp. “What of the men who took you?”

  “Dennison and most of the crew fought to the death. Those who survived have been arrested and will likely meet with the hangman’s noose.”

  Abigail shuttered.

  Alex stepped forward, closing the distance between them. He placed his hands at her waist, sliding them around to her back and pulling her closer.

  “As for us not being seen together, on that point I have changed my mind.”

  Abigail dropped her head back, looking up into his face. “Oh? But what of the danger?”

  “I think I am in need of a little danger in my life. But with the death or arrest of all the crew, there is no danger to you.” A sly grin passed over his lips. “Except perhaps from me.”

  Abigail felt her face heat. Her heart beat fast and hard in her neck and chest. “Should I be afraid of you, my lord?”

  He shook his head slowly. “I should hope you will never be afraid of me, Abi.”

  She melted in his arms; sure she would never tire of hearing him call her that. “What of Sir Charles?”

  Alex chuckled. “Sir Charles can dance the hempen jig.” He pulled his hand from her back and placed it on her neck, his thumb running softly along her jaw.

  Gooseflesh erupted across her skin, sending shivers down her spine. “You will not be leaving this house party without an offer, Miss Marleigh.” His fingers danced down her arm, her muscles jumping at his touch.

  “And who will be offering—Lord Grayson or Captain Stringham?” Abigail’s voice hitched.

  Alex laughed low in this throat. He dipped his head, placing a kiss upon her nose and then her brow, his thumb continuing to caress her cheek. “Who would you prefer?”

  “I believe each has his advantages.” A giddy smile formed on her lips. She tilted her head. “I’ve known for a long time, which man you really are.”

  He cupped her face in his hands. “Does it bother you that I was a pirate? I did things…”

  Abigail put a finger to his lips. “I know your character, Alex.”

  His shoulders relaxed.

  She grinned. “I have heard tale pirates are a passionate lot.”

  Alex winked. “You heard, correctly, my dear.” He dipped his head, kissing her softly on the lips.

  Abigail placed her arms about his neck, afraid she might float away and end the magical moment.

  He winced when her arm rested on his shoulder and she pulled away. He growled as he pulled her back, recapturing her mouth with his.

  Epilogue

  November

  “Why are we come to the docks, Alex? I thought we were only stopping to rest the horses.”

  Alex patted Abigail’s hand. “Perhaps I am missing the sea and wanted to get a look at the ships while we were here.”

  Abigail looked up into his face, her mouth turned down. “Do you miss the sea?”

  Alex shrugged. At times he did, but he should never trade his current life for his past. “Not to fear, my dear, Abi. I am quite content with my life on land.”

  They continued down the dock, several great frigates anchored beside them. Alex reached into his greatcoat and withdrew an envelope. He knew what the contents contained for he had a similar letter in his study at home. Although, Alex's letter was from Sir Richard, while Abigail's was from Bernard.

  He raised Abigail’s hand to his lips, kissing her fingers.

  "This was delivered by the innkeeper. It is addressed to you." He handed the letter over to her, releasing her hand so she might open the it.

  "To me? Who should even know I am here? We did not plan to stop here." Her brow creased as she studied him. Keeping his gaze ahead of them, he tried not to grin.

  He continued walking, though their pace slowed as she concentrated on the letter.

  Abigail cracked the wax seal and began to read.

  Alex watched her expressions—something he never grew tired of—each telling him which part she was reading. The serene smile meant Bernard was telling her about his studies. Then her eyes became wide and Alex knew she had come to the reason for the letter.

  She stopped walking and turned to face him, her eyes glistening. "Did you know of this?"

  "Know of what, my dear?"

  She stepped in front of him, bringing their progression to a halt. She placed a shaking hand on his cheek, and he leaned into it.

  "Bernard writes he is to arrive in Portsmouth today and he is not to return to sea."

  Alex put his arm about her waist, guiding her down the dock. "That is exceptional news, indeed."

  She threaded her hand into the crook of his arm, resting her head against his arm as she stared at the letter. "This is your doing, is it not?"

  "I have no idea of what you are speaking." He smiled, placing a kiss on top of her head.

  Abigail stopped again; her eyes narrowed at him. "How did you fool Captain Dennison for so long when you are such a terrible liar?"

  Alex ran a finger down her cheek. "Only to you, Abi. Only to you."

  She laid her head back on his arm and they continued walking. "Thank you, Alex."

  "You have no need to thank me. I will do anything for you." His throat became thick as he realized never had he spoken truer words.

  “Abi!” A small voice called from the far end of the dock.

  Abigail stopped and squinted at the figure. Her hand dropped from Alex’s arm and the letter fell to the ground as she rushed down the wooden planks.

  “Bernard, is that really you?”

&n
bsp; Alex grinned as Abigail grabbed her younger brother and lifted him up in a hug.

  Alex jogged to catch up with them.

  “I only just saw your letter.” Abigail set him down on his feet.

  Bernard grinned and Alex noticed the resemblance to his sister.

  Abigail let out a whimper and hugged her brother to her again. “How is this possible?”

  Bernard looked up to Alex for the first time. He gave a small bow. “My lord. It is good to meet you.”

  Abigail turned to look at Alex also. “How is this possible, Alex? How did you get my uncle to agree?"

  Alex turned her around and tucked her hand around his arm. “I am sure you are about frozen by now, Abi. And I would wager Bernard is hungry. Let’s continue this conversation as we walk back to the inn, shall we?”

  Bernard swung his knapsack over his shoulder.

  She nodded and started walking, but her face looked at him expectantly.

  "You uncle didn’t agree. In fact, he refused. It seems he is still angry you did not marry Sir Charles." Alex pulled her a little closer, wanting to feel her closeness. It still made his blood heat when he thought of her marrying that scoundrel. “I’ve heard Sir Charles has called in your uncle’s debt.”

  Abigail slowed, questions flashing through her eyes faster than Alex could read them. "How did you manage it then?" He smiled at her restraint in asking only one question.

  "It took some planning, but all you need to know is Bernard is home.” Alex reached over and rumpled the boy’s hair. “Your uncle doesn't know, nor will he, for a few years, at least. Bernard will live with us until it is time for him to attend Harrow with Nathan."

  "How can you be sure that my uncle will not find out?"

  "Must you know everything, my dear?"

  Abigail nodded. "Yes, I must."

  Alex laughed. “I should know as much by now. Very well. We found another boy, whose family is in need of the funds, to replace Bernard as cabin boy. The ship was intercepted, and the boys switched. The Captain was given a handful of letters, which he will post from India any time they make port. Thus, keeping up the ruse for your uncle."

  Abigail's mouth hung open. "But what of the Captain? Is he not a friend of my uncle's?"

  Alex shook his head. "No. In point of fact, he does not know your uncle directly. He is friends of another man who is an acquaintance of your uncle." Alex shook his head. “It is all very convoluted.”

  Abigail stared at him.

  "The Captain was well compensated and will do as he was asked. There is no reason your uncle should ever find out."

  Abigail tilted her head, making Alex smile. "But you said it was only for a few years. My uncle will be guardian for much longer than that."

  Alex shook his head. "We are hopeful the courts will rule in our favor even before the two years. But it could take that long to have a new guardian appointed."

  Abigail stopped suddenly, pulling Alex to a stop as well. "What do you mean by appointing a new guardian? How can that happen? Who will be the new guardian? Why did you not tell me this earlier?"

  Alex stood still a moment, waiting. "Any more questions my dear?"

  Abigail shook her head.

  "Your uncle has not been prudent with your family's finances. If he is left in charge until Nathan comes of age, there will be nothing left to inherit. The courts are reviewing the documents as we speak. Thankfully, your father had a very trustworthy man of business. He was quite anxious to see your uncle set aside." Abigail continued walking, but it was without heed to her steps. "Who is to be the new guardian?"

  Alex sighed, looking at the ships around him. In his heart he thought Abigail would be pleased with the decision, but there was a small niggling of doubt that often crept into his mind. He had done all of this without consulting her. Would she be angry with his highhandedness? "We had thought Sir Richard in the beginning, but your uncle will not go willingly." Alex looked down, holding Abigail's gaze. "In the end we felt it was the clout of an earl which would ensure the court’s ruling."

  A slow smile spread over Abigail's face as she figured out the implications. "You? You are to take over guardianship? Oh, Alex. That is wonderful." Tears filled her eyes again. "Why did you not tell me this sooner?"

  Alex reached over and wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes with his thumb. "At first I did not want to give you false hope, should we not be able to see it through." His voice stuttered as he saw complete trust looking back at him.

  "And after that?"

  Alex pushed the doubts away, nodding his head. "That is not important. What is important is Bernard is back in England now.”

  A small hand wiggled into Alex’s and he looked over to see Bernard smiling up at him.

  “And your uncle will shortly be turned out of Ridgewood."

  Alex looked at Abigail and then at Bernard, both holding onto him and looking at him with adoration and trust. Alex’s throat felt tight. If this was only the beginning of what the fates had planned for them, Alex could not wait to see what else was to come.

  He leaned over and whispered in Abigail’s ear. "There is something I need to thank your uncle for when next we see him."

  Abigail's lip curled slightly. "What could you ever have to thank him for?"

  Alex stopped and pulled her close to him, loving the feel of her warmth and knowing she was his. "Had he not worked so hard to turn away every would-be suitor, you would never have been available long enough for me to find you." He pushed a curl away from her face. "And for that, I will be eternally grateful."

  Abigail smiled up at him. She then pulled Alex's face to hers, kissing him firmly on the lips.

  “Awe, Abi,” Bernard whined beside them.

  Alex smiled against Abigail’s lips.

  She pulled back slightly, "I love you Alex."

  Tipping her back slightly, Alex covered Bernard’s eyes with his gloved hand. He leaned down and placed a kiss on the curve of her neck, kissing up the slope and along her jawline. When he reached her lips, he paused. "I love you too, Abi."

  <<<<>>>>

  Sneak Peek

  Here is a sneak peek from the next in the Regency House Party: Havencrest series.

  The Vexatious Widow

  Afterword

  Dear Reader,

  Thank you so much for reading! I hope you love this story as much as I do.

  When I wrote Mistaken Identity for Regency House Party: Somerstone, we were doing the covers as a group and I came across a guy that I thought might look good on the cover. But no one else liked him. Like NO ONE. Not even an “He’s ok.” Even after my cover designer gave him a haircut, it was still a no go. At one point one of the other authors of Regency House Party said they thought the guy looked more like a pirate, then Conrad, the Marquess of Kendal. Ah! The idea was born. From that time on, I knew my next Regency House Party book would be about a pirate. And Alex is not just your everyday pirate.

  I wanted to have a character who was in the last RHP series. There were so many characters in that book to choose from, but Miss Marleigh, the kind and proficient piano player kept telling me she needed to find love. So I had to make that happen.

  Be sure to check out my other stories:

  Mistaken Identity

  An American in Duke’s Clothing

  Reforming the Gambler

  Happy reading!

  Mindy

  Visit Mindy at her website at:

  www.properlovestory.com

  For info on upcoming releases and other great authors subscribe to Mindy’s newsletter.

  About the Author

  Mindy Burbidge Strunk loves all things history and romance, which makes reading and writing Regency romance right up her alley. When she isn’t living in her alternate realities (she actually made an imaginary elevator in her closet when she was a kid), she is married to her real-life Mr. Darcy and trying to raise five proper boys (two of which are twins). They live happily in the beautiful mountains of Utah, where t
hey enjoy camping, hiking and spending time together.