“Please call me Jonathan, and the pleasure is all mine, General.” Jonathan felt the firm grip of his handshake.
“Sit down,” Jackson commanded, pointing to some stools. “Let us talk.”
“What are you looking at, General?” Adam asked.
“A map of the Gulf States.” He pointed to a spot on the drawing. “I firmly believe the British will strike at Mobile.”
“Why do you say that?” Adam asked.
“It seems perfectly obvious that the British will disembark at Mobile, and march overland to some river point above the Crescent City—maybe Baton Rouge—thus avoiding the treacherous delta country,” he answered irritably.
“Maybe you are right,” Adam acknowledged, “but I believe they will sail into New Orleans. I have information they’ll offer Lafitte a deal to join forces with them, and who better than Lafitte knows those treacherous waterways?”
Jonathan’s gaze rested on one of the aides standing near the door, who nearly choked when he heard Adam disagree with the general. Jonathan smiled. Evidently, nobody disagreed with Jackson.
The general stood, stretching his back and muscles. “I’ve not heard this bit of information. As you know, Adam, I’m not a man who readily changes his mind, but I do appreciate your input and would like to hear more. Let’s just say we will see who is right in the end.” Jackson grinned.
The meeting lasted a little over four hours. Both men shared the things they knew had been happening, and they both filled Jonathan in on everything he didn’t know.
“I need your help, Adam,” Jackson suddenly admitted. “How can I assist you?”
“I need someone I can trust to go to Pensacola. There seems to be a bit of trouble down there.”
“I hadn’t expected to be away from home that long,” Adam confessed. “However, if you’ll send word to my wife, Jonathan and I will go on your mission.”
“Agreed.” Jackson shook Adam’s hand. “I’ll send one of my Choctaw scouts to Four Oaks.”
Adam sat down and wrote a note to Jewel, telling her he would be away longer than he’d first thought. But he would try everything possible to be home in time for the party.
Jewel and Elizabeth had kept busy fixing up Annie’s house, which now glistened from beeswax, and their hard work showed. Yellow curtains gave a light, airy look to the kitchen. The rooms seemed to glow as the sun trickled in through the windows.
Annie wiped a tear from her eye. “I never thought I’d be havin’ anythin’ so beautiful in all me born days. ’Tis truly a miracle.”
Jewel hugged Annie. “You deserve every bit of it. Look how long you have taken care of everybody else.”
“And look what a good job you did on Adam and me.” Elizabeth giggled. “Why, we’re simply perfect.”
Elizabeth and Jewel walked back to the main house. It was a good distance, but they had decided the walk would do them good. As soon as they entered the main hall of Four Oaks, a butler appeared and handed a letter to Jewel. She was a bit worried when she first recognized Adam’s writing, and quickly tore into the note.
“Is anything wrong?” Elizabeth asked.
“No, thank goodness. It just says they’re going to be longer than expected.”
“They?”
“He probably means General Jackson and himself.”
“Well, why is he detained?” Elizabeth asked, peering over Jewel’s shoulder.
“It seems General Jackson wants Adam to do something for him, but Adam doesn’t explain anything.”
“What about the party?” Elizabeth was getting excited. “The party is for both of you! Adam just has to be there!” Elizabeth declared, exasperated.
“Calm down. Adam said he would be here for the party.” Jewel smiled at her sister-in-law, feeling she had her very own sister.
The next morning guaranteed a glorious day. Warm air caressed the morning glories, promising more heat by midday. The day wasn’t hot, just pleasant and comfortable, nothing like the cold, clammy weather in England.
After a nice breakfast with Elizabeth, Jewel told her she was going for a ride in the country, which was almost the truth.
Jewel hurried to the stable. She moved past several stalls before picking out a mount that looked gentle and understanding.
Now, if she could just overpower this horse and let him know who was boss, she’d have a pleasurable ride into New Orleans. Surprisingly enough, what she’d learned in England came back to her once she mounted. She felt comfortable and somewhat in control.
The ride into New Orleans was enjoyable. Jewel smiled to herself at the thought of what everybody would have said if she had told them where she was going.
She couldn’t wait to see her Uncle Pierre. How long had it been now? Over a year. He must be worried.
Jewel ignored the strange stares she received as she rode up to the blacksmith’s shop. She had purposely worn a big hat and veil to hide her identity. She couldn’t take the chance of word getting back to Adam.
Once she arrived, she lifted the veil so she could talk to the blacksmith. “I’d like to see Pierre, please.”
“He isn’t here,” the blacksmith snapped without looking up.
“You said he would be here in two weeks.” She dismounted and stood in front of him. She wasn’t about to be put off. It had been a long ride to be dismissed so casually.
The big hulk of a man finally turned around. At first he seemed hesitant to answer her question. “We’re expecting him, ma’am, but he hasn’t come.”
Another blacksmith spoke up, smiling at her. “You sure there ain’t something I can do for you?”
“I’m positive.” Jewel scowled at the man. She didn’t like the way he looked at her. As she turned to head for the office she’d seen Adam go into the last time they’d been there, Jewel’s hand came up slowly to the waistband of her skirt where she had hidden a knife.
As she suspected, the blacksmith who had spoken made a grab for her. She whirled just about the time he touched her, slicing his midsection.
“The bitch cut me!” he roared, grabbing his stomach and looking down at the blood staining his hands. “You little witch,” he muttered. His eyes widened and he started toward her.
Jewel had been through too much to be afraid. All her training quickly returned as she took a stance, knife in hand. “I was playing with you the first time; however, if you lay another hand on me, I’ll slit your throat.”
That statement stopped him from advancing further as he contemplated whether she was bluffing.
From behind Jewel, men came flying out of the office where she had been headed. “What’s going on here?” they demanded.
Jewel glanced over her shoulder to see who approached her. The blacksmith lunged, but she was faster, and sidestepped him, leaving him face-down in the dirt.
“Jewel?” one of the men called from behind her.
A squeal of delight slipped from her lips as she ran and threw herself into his arms. “Dominique, is it really you?”
“Of course it is. We thought you were dead,” he told Jewel, holding her back to get a better glance. “But look at you. You are fine, petite? ”
“Yes, I am. And it’s a long story how I happen to be here. I thought Pierre would be here today, and 1 wanted him to tell Jean I’m fine and would see him soon.”
The blacksmith found his footing as he got up slowly. “You know her?”
“She’s Jean’s and Pierre’s niece.”
“Blimey!” The man swore as his face lost color.
“What happened to you?” Dominique asked, pointing at the blacksmith’s middle.
“She cut me,” he complained.
“Ah, it’s but a mere scratch. If she had wanted to hurt you, mate, she’d have cut you to ribbons. After all, I taught her to handle a knife.” Dominique chuckled. “And if Jean had been here, he’d slit your throat for touching his niece.”
Jewel looked lovingly at the man she’d grown up with, Dominique You, Jean’s first lieu
tenant. They moved into Jake’s office, where they talked in private. Dominique promised he would notify Jean and Pierre that she was fine. Jewel told Dominique she had married, but wouldn’t tell him to whom. She explained she had to inform her husband about her family first.
He walked with Jewel to her horse, fussing that she shouldn’t have come alone. “You can’t ride a horse,” he said, surprised when he saw her mount.
“Shh, don’t tell the animal,” Jewel teased, bending over to kiss Dominique on the cheek.
Jewel felt content that at least one part of her problem was now solved.
What she didn’t see when she left the blacksmith’s shop was another pair of eyes that watched her from the alley.
Captain Lee grinned. He knew sooner or later Jewel would arrive. This was her uncle’s shop, and he had been smart to bide his time and wait for her to make an appearance. He had dressed as a common sailor and made sure to disguise his accent. English sea captains were not welcome here now. His ship lay hidden safely in a cove where he had rowed to shore in a small boat. He was supposedly scouting for England; however, he had other plans, which included the young lady now riding off. He would be patient a while longer. There was a battle brewing and when it broke, everyone would be too busy to pay him much attention. That was when he would strike. He and the young lady would take a short sea voyage. And this time things would be different. He rubbed his finger slowly down his scarred cheek. There would be no escape—no mistakes. The little lady would lead him to a treasure—a treasure fit for a king. Or she’d die, just that simple.
Laughing in a sinister tone, Lee said out loud, “Yes, that is what I’ll do. She hasn’t seen the last of me yet!”
Chapter Twenty-four
Jewel sat before the large mirror at her dressing table, brushing her hair. Now that her hair had grown longer, falling below her shoulders, it took a long time to dry when washed, but today she had plenty to think about as she combed out the tangles.
Everything had been readied for the gala to announce her marriage to Adam. However, there seemed to be one problem ... no husband. He hadn’t come home. And she hadn’t heard from him. She had swayed between anger and worrying that something awful had happened.
“I guess I’ll just stand up and say, ‘Ladies and Gentlemen, I’d like to introduce myself.’ ” Jewel waved her brush in the air. “ ‘I’m Adam’s wife and, no, I haven’t any idea as to the location of my husband.’ ” Jewel propped her chin on her hand and stared into the mirror, feeling sorry for herself.
The door opened behind her and Annie swept in, followed by a maid carrying Jewel’s party dress. “I think ye might be needin’ this tonight.” Annie had the girl place the dress on the bed and went to stand behind Jewel.
“I don’t feel much like a party.”
“Now, we’ll be havin’ none of that, lass.” Annie took the brush out of Jewel’s hand and began arranging her hair. “If Adam said he would be here, then he will. But if the mon doesn’t make it, ye can’t let yer guests down.” Annie frowned. “Where’s yer spunk, lass?”
Jewel’s gaze met her friend’s in the mirror. Annie was right, of course, and she would carry on tonight, whether Adam came or not. Sitting a little straighter, she squared her shoulders, preparing herself to handle whatever came about tonight.
“That’s my girl.” Annie finished adorning her hair with spring flowers, placing them in the curls on top of Jewel’s head. She stood patiently while Annie began to fasten the tiny hooks at the back of her gown. Finally Jewel was ready, and with a bright smile from Annie, went downstairs.
She found Elizabeth at the bottom of the stairs, giving final instructions to the servants.
“You look like a queen. On second thought, a duchess,” Elizabeth said as Jewel approached. “If you approve, I think we’ll greet the guests over here.” She pointed to the staircase.
“Whatever you think’s best.” Jewel tapped her fan against her hand. “I really dread meeting all these people I don’t know. I feel so out of place here. As if I don’t belong.”
“Nonsense!” Elizabeth shook her hand. “I want you to stand beside me so I can introduce you.” She reached out and grabbed Jewel’s arm, pulling her right beside her. “I’ll not forgive Adam for not being here.”
“I’m sure he would have been here if he could have,” Jewel declared, remembering that just a few moments ago she would have agreed with Elizabeth. “We’ll just have to make do without him.” She squeezed her sister-in-law’s hand.
An endless line of strange faces greeted Jewel. I’ll never remember these people, she thought. Everyone was nice and welcomed her, though they all seemed to want to know everything about her, such as where she came from and who she was related to. All inquired as to Adam’s whereabouts, which managed to bring a blush to her cheeks.
“Who is that?” Jewel whispered to Elizabeth, nodding toward a very stunning lady entering the foyer.
“She’s a cold-blooded snake, and that’s the only nice thing I can say about her,” Elizabeth stated. “She is another who had designs on your husband.”
Before Jewel could comment, the lady in question stood in front of her, and Elizabeth made the introduction.
“Bonnie Newman, may I present my sister-in-law, Jewel Trent.”
“Why, I say, you’re a pretty young thing,” she gushed with Southern charm. “But then Adam always did have good taste in his women. It’s downright shameful he hasn’t bothered to make an appearance tonight. You must really feel the ninny.”
Stunned, Jewel felt as if she’d been slapped. She hadn’t expected this viciousness from a perfect stranger. How many of Adam’s so-called lady friends lay in wait for her? The silence lingered while no one said a word. Jewel wanted to strike back and say something, but what the lady had said was true. She did feel the fool, and worse, she couldn’t seem to utter a single word.
“Sorry, I’m late, sweetheart.”
Jewel jerked around at the sound of her husband’s vibrant voice. Adam had come home. He wore the latest in fashion as he strolled across the hallway in a fawn-colored coat with a white stock. His black knee-high boots glistened in the light from the candles. He slipped an arm around her shoulders, placing a quick kiss on her lips, before turning his attention to the guest.
Adam had heard Bonnie’s crude remark and would personally like to strangle the bitch, but he had to rescue his wife first.
“Hello, Bonnie. I see you’ve not found a husband yet.” Adam knew his remark would hit home. “Maybe you should go in and join the rest of our guests. You could test your luck tonight.”
“I’d forgotten how mean you can be, Adam Trent.” Bonnie’s face glowed a vibrant red before she turned on her heels and stomped off toward the ballroom.
Bonnie had been the last of the arriving guests, Adam noted. He turned Jewel to him. He had missed her, more than he cared to admit. “What ... no hug ... no kiss? Am I to assume you didn’t miss me?”
His wife still stared at him, and he didn’t think she was going to say anything, but finally she whispered, “I didn’t think you were coming.”
He drank in her beauty. Her cheeks and lips were the softest pink, the color of baby roses. Her eyes were liquid pools of brown, but in the very center gleamed specks of lavender picked up from her dress. He wasted little time taking her into his arms and savoring the sweetness of her mouth. He had a good mind to be rude and go upstairs. Let Elizabeth handle the party.
“All right, you two, stop that. Remember, you’ve a ballroom full of guests,” Elizabeth reminded them.
Adam had forgotten his sister existed. “Elizabeth, you’re a bore,” he complained.
“Well, someone has to be. It’s plain to see you have your wife deceived.” Elizabeth cocked her head to the side and smiled.
“Come on, both of you,” Adam said, taking their hands in his and pulling them behind him to the library.
“What is it?” Jewel asked, feeling slightly apprehensive.
Adam threw open the door, and Jewel saw a man standing with his back to them. At the sound of the door opening, he turned. “Jonathan!” She squealed, her hand flying over her mouth, before running over to give Jonathan a hug. “When did you get here? As a matter of fact, when did you and Adam both get here? It seems we know nothing that goes on in this house.”
“If it is possible, my lady, you have grown lovelier since the last time I saw you.” Jonathan bowed and kissed her hand. “And to answer your question, I went with your husband to meet General Jackson.”
“Jonathan?” Elizabeth asked hesitantly.
Jonathan looked past Jewel to the lady standing in the doorway. “Elizabeth, you’re no longer the child I remember.”
“Of course not. I’ve grown up.” Elizabeth turned completely around so he could see her. “What do you think?”
“I approve and demand the first dance with you, madam.” Jonathan crossed the room and offered her his arm.
“Shall we, sweetheart?” Adam asked Jewel.
Jewel nodded when he placed his hand on her elbow. “Yes, I believe we are supposed to have the first dance.”
They walked through the double doors of the ballroom to the gardens behind it where a dance floor had been constructed. Upon seeing Adam enter, the band started playing a waltz. He didn’t stop, but led her out on the dance floor.
Jewel looked up at the body of heavenly stars twinkling down at them as he took her into his arms. “What a beautiful night.” She sighed.
“Perhaps a night made for lovers.” Adam smiled down at her. Their bodies touched as they glided across the dance floor with an easy grace that surprised her, since they had never actually danced before. The enchanting music captured their souls with its lyrical sound as they swirled around the garden. Jewel glanced up at Adam’s handsome face. How could she be so lucky?
“I’ve missed you,” she said, watching him as his gaze seemed to caress her face. The passion in Adam’s eyes smoldered, and she knew he was keeping a tight control on his emotions.
The Duke's Lady (Historical Romance - The Ladies Series) Page 27
