"Would you allow me to inspect your wound, my lord?" He asked gently.
"It's nothing but I would like a bath." Standing, he allowed Matheson to open his robe enough to inspect his stomach. "I don't think it would have bled a lot if I hadn't moved around so much."
Matheson nodded and left to arrange a bath. Gilles head snapped towards the connecting door. What if Elise had blood on her as well? How did he he forget to check? Could he warn her? What could she do before Anna would see it? Raking his hands through his hair, Gilles accepted that there was nothing he could do. His valet would return along with servants with a tub, water and fresh bed linens. He'd have to count on Anna being discreet if she saw anything.
Chapter 31
Elise's morning had not started as well as she'd expected. She'd overslept, for one. When Anna attempted to wake her she'd refused to even acknowledge her. She pulled a pillow over her head and ignored her maid until she left. Anna was concerned, it was so unlike Elise to stay in bed so late. Especially when she had been excited about her plans with His Lordship. Anna checked her for fever. Elise had slapped her hand away.
When she did finally wake up, she was distraught at being late. Elise stretched her aching limbs and wondered at all the tender muscles she'd never known she had while she waited for her bath.
There was an awkward moment when Anna noticed blood on the inside of Elise's thigh. She seemed a little too accusing as she shared the news that His Lordship suffered a minor wound to his stomach during the night and that his valet had discovered him and his bedding smeared with blood. As soon as she was dressed, Elise hurried from the room.
She sensed Gilles almost as soon as she turned the corner. She heard him pacing. Was he upset?
"I'm sorry I'm late, my lord!" She rushed down the steps and was surprised when he met her before she reached the bottom.
"How are you?" He was urgent though he kept his voice low.
"Me? Are you alright? I heard that you'd been cut and there was a lot of blood in your room!" She felt him tense.
"Let's step into the study." He took her elbow and guided her through the door. As soon as it was closed he pulled her into his arms and kissed her thoroughly.
Elise felt her knees go weak, she grabbed his lapels and leaned into him. Gilles felt her sag, he immediately led her to the sofa.
"Are you well?" He held her face in his hands and Elise could tell he was examining her.
"I'm fine! I'm a bit sore but I suppose that's to be expected. What's this about you being cut?" She pressed her hand to his stomach. He covered her hand with his.
"It was self inflicted." His voice was low. "There was no hiding the blood on me and the bedclothes so I improvised."
"You cut yourself?" She'd managed shrill at a low volume. "To cover for me..."
"If I recall correctly, I had something to do with it. It's a minor cut." Gilles lifted her chin and set his lips to hers. "I woke up wanting you." He murmured.
"I don't know that I could have accommodated you this morning."
"Are you truly that sore?" He sounded so concerned.
"It's better the more I move around."
"Did Anna notice any blood? I thought about warning you but there was no way."
"She noticed. She was only suspicious because she heard about your mishap."
Gilles cursed.
"Did she say anything?"
"She definitely figured it out. You might want to steer clear of her for a few days."
"I suppose I could pay her more..."
"She won't tell anyone."
Gilles seemed to have relaxed since Elise came downstairs, he stood up and escorted her from the study.
"I think we should have breakfast, everyone else will be finishing up. If you still want to go for a ride, we can after."
"Of course I still want to go!" She practically skipped down the hall. Gilles followed in her wake. "Let's hurry!"
Breakfasts at Longwood were starting to develop a habit of being awkward, Elise thought. Perhaps it was time to start taking a tray in her room.
The family had lingered at the table, waiting for Elise and Gilles to arrive. For several minutes the room was a chorus of throat clearers. For once, Elise appreciated not being able to see. She imagined Gilles was the recipient of too many knowing grins and pointed stares. She chose to feign ignorance and eat as quickly as she could.
Mirabelle was the one to step into the breach.
"Quite an unusual morning... Elise oversleeping, Gilles injuring himself and turning his bedroom into a battlefield and the two of you wandering into breakfast late and looking so pleased..."
Celine snorted and Alastair cleared his throat uncomfortably.
"I'm sure it's all unrelated, mignon! But we do seem much happier, perhaps we will have good news soon?"
This time Gilles cleared his throat.
"Perhaps. I had planned to take Lady Elise for a ride this morning. What does everyone else plan to do with their day? Aside from speculating about my personal affairs?"
"I plan to devote most of my day to your personal affairs. It's so much more interesting than anything I could come up with on my own." Mirabelle replied.
"Perhaps you should visit the library. Your mind could do with improving, brat."
"Nonsense. I have an excellent mind."
This time, Elise giggled. She really should help Gilles but she enjoyed listening to them tease each other.
Mercifully for Gilles, the rest of the meal passed quickly with much less discomfort. As they were leaving the dining room, Holderson arrived with letters for Gilles. He read them and groaned.
"I'm afraid these can't wait. Do you want to wait for me or postpone our ride until tomorrow?" His disappointment was obvious.
"I'll wait. Take all the time you need."
He squeezed her hand and Elise felt so tempted to lean in to kiss his cheek. It would be a relief to be married and able to enjoy little moments of affection like that.
"Alastair? I could use your thoughts on these."
"Of course."
Elise sensed Alastair beside them as they walked. She smiled at how comfortable and safe she felt in his presence. Indeed, with both men flanking her, Elise didn't think anything could harm her.
The letters kept the men for over an hour. Elise passed the time at her piano playing songs from her repertoire that reminded her of her ride with Gilles. She was in high spirits when he came for her. He apologized profusely and only stopped when she brushed her lips against his. Gilles held her shoulders tightly and Elise knew he wanted to take the kiss further. She pulled away.
"If we don't leave soon, I fear we won't get to go today and it may be the only time we'll have alone until late tonight."
Gilles needed no other encouragement. He led her to the stables as quickly as he could. Once they were away on Lucifer he led them to destinations that allowed him to hold Elise closely. He teased her neck and ears, turned her face to his for demanding kisses and stroked her breasts through her dress. She begged him to let them off the horse so they could take his flirtation farther. Gilles had to refuse her. Alone, he had no way of safely helping her onto Lucifer's back. He promised that once she was able to ride her own horse, he'd find a grassy spot for them to make love when the weather was fine. Elise sensed that the idea appealed to him greatly. She could feel his hard length along her thigh and his heart beat wildly.
By unspoken agreement, both were happy to spend the rest of the morning away from the house. Enjoying their time alone and the mildness of the day, they remained away until it was almost time for lunch to be served. As they approached Longwood, Elise was thankful that a morning that had started so dreadfully had turned out to be one of her favorites.
Chapter 32
Lucien had been anxious to get a glimpse of Longwood. He was impressed. It was large but not garishly so. It was classically beautiful with a gentle charm. The grounds were a dominant feature. There was a minimal courtyard and large gardens e
nveloped the north side of the estate. An ornamental waterfall at the far end of the garden fed a small stream that concluded in a fountain at the center. In the afternoon sun, the pale stones of the house's facade shined and projected a welcoming atmosphere. The overall effect was peace and fantasy. Gilles had a home, Lucien thought with great warmth. His smile dimmed a bit when he realized that Winthorpe would no longer play as important of a role in family gatherings.
As the carriage turned into the drive, Lucien saw three figures emerge from the house. Where was Gilles and this mystery woman? He looked to the basket on the seat across from him and frowned. He'd grown quite fond of his companion. Perhaps he should get himself a dog...
Lucien stepped from the carriage and was struck by how happy he was to see the Spencers. He always looked forward to seeing them but he'd especially noticed their absence the last few days. Celine hugged him tightly and asked after his mother. He informed her that she would remain in Bath for the next week or two and would come directly to Longwood. Hugging Mirabelle, Lucien felt a sense of calm wash over him. Calm? Mirabelle was a lot of things but calm wasn't one of them. He pushed the thought away as he kissed her hair and told her she looked well. She looked well, indeed. Lucien blinked and silently chided himself. She always looked "well". While she wasn't shallow or vain, she had a fondness for fashion and always appeared in order. Ironically, when the family was at Winthorpe, she quickly reverted to her tomboy ways. Again, he felt a twinge of sadness. Would she be visiting Winthorpe now that Gilles had Longwood? He couldn't picture the rolling fields and forests without seeing her. He turned and embraced Alastair who immediately asked if the investigation had concluded as Lucien had hoped.
"Not completely. Whitrose is nowhere to be found. But his plans have been disrupted and he won't prey on anyone else." He tried to sound like he was at peace with that, that he wasn't as uneasy about that loose end as he truly was.
Alastair stared at him for a moment and then gripped his arm.
"I'm sure we'll find him. He can't stay hidden forever."
Lucien nodded and put it from his mind. He looked around.
"We seem to be missing a few people?"
"Gilles and Lady Elise went for a ride. They should be back soon..." Mirabelle turned and looked towards the stables. Lucien followed her gaze and in the distance he saw a rider in a clearing to the west. "That's them. Let's introduce you to Lady Elise!" She linked arms with him and turned towards the stables. Lucien noticed a boy, no more than eight or nine behind a tree, spying on them.
He pointed in his direction and called.
"You! Come here at once!" He pointed to the ground in front of him. A moment later, the boy came running. He looked as if he was afraid. Lucien released Mirabelle and took a knee.
"What's your name, lad, and what's your business here?" He asked as if he were talking to a much older fellow. Lucien saw that a smile flirted with Mirabelle's lips. Why was he staring at her lips? He returned to his discussion.
"Daniel, Sir. Me dad's Stable Master. Sometimes, he lets me come and help. I was just looking at your horses, I swear!" Mirabelle started to speak, probably to correct Daniel's error in calling Lucien "Sir". Lucien waved her off.
"You're just the man I need, young Daniel. I have a very important task that I need assistance with and it's a bit of a secret. Can I count on you?" The boy's eyes went wide and he nodded. "In my carriage, there's something special in a basket. I need you to tend to it and make sure it's clean and ready when we need it. Can you do that?" The boy nodded again as he stood up as straight he could without standing on his tiptoes. "Good lad! Off to it, then!" Lucien patted him on the shoulder and Daniel took off running.
Mirabelle laughed as she reclaimed Lucien's arm. Lucien looked down at her arm in his and wondered why he felt so warm. He shook his head and placed his hand over her arm as they made their way towards the stables.
The horse and rider were close enough for Lucien to see that it was actually two riders. He recognized Lucifer and saw that Gilles was riding with a woman in front of him. As they clattered into the yard, Lucien was struck by her beauty. Petite with light, golden hair, she appeared delicate yet generously endowed. He considered it safe to assume that this was the woman Alastair's prophecy had been about. She was lovely and as he watched Gilles pull her against him as he slid from the saddle and dismounted, he could see they were familiar and comfortable with each other. Lucien noticed her cheeks held more color than could be explained by the ride and her lips appeared swollen and redder than they should.
Again, he noted her petiteness. He preferred his women a bit taller, more like... His gaze drifted towards Mirabelle. She was definitely more his type. What was wrong with him? He turned and strode towards Gilles. He whispered to the woman next to him before he accepted Lucien with an exuberant embrace.
"Gentle Mercutio!" He patted him heartily on the back. Lucien was surprised at the dramatic change in his friend. His whole demeanor was altered. He was happy. Lucien felt it more than saw it. It was a relief.
"Gilles, this place agrees with you! I'm impressed!" Lucien playfully punched Gilles' shoulder.
"Welcome to Longwood, Lucien!" He laughed. God, it was so good to see him laugh.
Lucien looked down at the woman next to Gilles. She was staring serenely beyond him, he turned to see what held her attention. He was aware enough to accept that he was mildly vain, so he was more than a bit surprised that she had yet to really look at him. He saw nothing accept an empty paddock. He turned back to her and her gaze was still averted. He looked to Gilles.
"Lucien, may I make you known to Lady Elise, Countess of Cambroke." She bowed her head. Lucien startled and stared at Gilles. Surely he hadn't already married... If not... Gilles guessed his thoughts. "She is widow of the late earl."
"I see..." Lucien smiled suggestively at Gilles.
"Lady Elise, may I introduce Lucien Haviland, The Eighth Duke of Clerendon." She held her hand towards Lucien and he accepted it. He looked for her eyes to meet his and they stopped in the proximity of his ear and he knew. She was blind. Stunned, he looked at Gilles and saw him staring at her. His focus was complete and he was smiling like a fool. Alastair had been correct. No doubt a marriage was quite imminent. The horse, the puppy, Gilles' mood, it all made sense.
"My Lady, I am very pleased to meet you." He kissed her knuckle and she smiled radiantly.
Mirabelle stepped forward and touched Lady Elise's elbow.
"It's almost time for lunch. Would you like me to lead you back to the house so you can change?"
Lady Elise agreed and took Mirabelle's arm. Lucien and Gilles watched them depart. Gilles' eyes stayed on Lady Elise, his smile never faded. Once they were out of sight, he directed Lucien to follow as he walked Lucifer into his stall and began brushing him down. Lucien found himself smiling at how relaxed and happy Gilles looked. He was truly at home here.
"This is all a pleasant surprise." He leaned against a post and crossed his boots.
"I imagine it is." Gilles smiled as he stroked Lucifer briskly.
"The Dowager Countess of Cambroke... This will be big."
Gilles shrugged and tossed the brush and closed the stall. He leaned against the door.
"I don't care. You've seen her. Wait until you get to know her, she's incredible." He smiled that foolish grin again.
Lucien began inspecting the other stalls. There were few horses other than those for pulling teams. Lucifer was the only riding horse.
"She's lovely. Just as long as you're prepared. I take it the horse is for her? You mean to teach her to ride?" He stopped next to Gilles and rested his arms over the door to Lucifer's stall and patted his nose. Lucien smiled, knowing Lucifer had merely allowed it.
"I pity anyone that defies maman and Mirabelle. They're capable of handling any gossip and rumors. Were you able to track down anything suitable?"
Lucien laughed.
"They are formidable. I suspect my mother will contribute to the caus
e." Lucien turned and rested his shoulders next to Gilles. "I found a young New Forest mare. She'll do well, I think. I've arranged for her to be brought here by the end of next week. We'll need to teach Lady Elise to ride sidesaddle."
"I have a saddle with a high back and a brace being made. Once it arrives, we'll take Lucifer to the paddock and put her on his back." Gilles pushed away from the stall and signaled for Lucien to follow. He tossed the horse an apple as he headed towards the door.
"Lucifer's a risky option." Lucien shoved his hands in his pockets as he walked next to Gilles. "He's too large and powerful. And he's fast. If he bolts..."
"He won't bolt. He's careful with her. Acts like a damned kitten if she pets him." Gilles sounded sure.
"Well, that's something. Think I'll be able to ride him then, if he's gone tame? I didn't see anything else suitable."
Gilles shook his head.
"Doubtful. He's still a bastard if anyone else tries to mount him. There's a lad somewhere around here with a broken arm."
"If we're all planning to stay for the time being, I'll send for Hugin and Munin. Alastair can help me exercise them."
Gilles nodded.
"Also, I paid a visit to our old Latin tutor. I'd thought to do you a favor and ask for a special license on your behalf but it seemed you'd already written to him." He reached into his coat and drew out an envelope. Gilles took it and examined the paper.
"Excellent! How did you know I'd need it?"
"Alastair. He figured it out from the letter you sent asking your mother to chaperone."
"Of course. How is our beleaguered friend?"
"Still hates his job, though I imagine it's easier than putting up with us. How Mirabelle tormented that man!"
Saved By A Siren: Spencers in Love Book One Page 16
