“I’m having a lot of fun. Could we play again tomorrow?” she asked Phoebe.
The child raised her eyes from her doll and formed a smile that dimpled her plump cheeks, the expression so much like the one that graced Gabe’s face when he was genuinely happy. A state Elizabeth couldn’t recall seeing since he’d been a young man at Foxmoore.
“Will you?” Phoebe asked, suppressed anticipation shining in her eyes.
Based on her reaction, Elizabeth knew the child wasn’t getting the attention she needed. She found Phoebe’s enthusiasm contagious and laughed wholeheartedly. “Of course I will.” She leaned closer. “Do you want to know something?”
Eager to be included in the secret, Phoebe leaned in.
“I’m going to be staying here, too,” Elizabeth confided. “We can play every day if you wish.”
Phoebe’s eyes grew wide and practically shone with happiness, lightening the deep blue. “Every day?”
“Every day.”
“Am I interrupting?”
That voice. Gabe.
Cringing a bit at being caught disobeying Gabe’s request, Elizabeth slowly pivoted to look at him. Though his face carried no emotion, tension streamed from his large body. For one of the few times in her life, she didn’t know how to proceed with him. Should she apologize for seeking out his daughter? But Phoebe was her reason for being here. If anyone was being unreasonable, it was him.
Yet she felt herself flush under his relentless, hawk-like stare. Even from a distance, she noted the usual golden warmth was absent from his eyes.
With Gabe towering above her, Elizabeth couldn’t avoid him. Caught at a disadvantage, she straightened her skirt and, as ladylike as she could manage, rose to face him.
She was about to confront Gabe’s pique when a slight tug on her dress interrupted her. She glanced down to find Phoebe at her side, her hand bunching Elizabeth’s skirt in a tight fist.
Then she noticed the way Gabe’s eyes, softened with emotion, locked on his child. Apparently Phoebe’s innocence had the power to sooth even Gabe’s anger.
Unsure why, she had a sudden urge to be a bit devilish. “Would you care to join us? Phoebe was introducing me to her dolls.”
Her behavior was rewarded by a wicked curve of his lips. “Minx, you are very aware I don’t play with dolls.”
The mischievousness streak inside her refused to be silenced. Not when the smiling man before her reminded her too much of the Gabe she recalled from her childhood. “Is that so? I always thought you were merely trying to appear tough for Marcus’s sake.” She made a show of looking around the room. “There doesn’t appear to be any witnesses. Your reputation will be safe with us.”
“Sorry to disappoint, Minx, but the day the Duke of Wesbrook sits and plays with dolls, is the day I buy you a stable and fill it with the finest English mounts.”
“Careful, Gabe, I might hold you to that.”
“You do that.” Gabe quickly scanned the room. His easy smiled disappeared. “Where is the maid?”
Phoebe’s grip tightened on Elizabeth’s skirt at the roughness of Gabe’s tone.
She wouldn’t downplay it. “There was no one here when I arrived.”
He pinned her with his dark eyes. “Don’t think I’ve forgotten you are supposed to be in your chamber, resting.”
The rigid edge of his voice was unmistakable. She placed a hand on Phoebe’s shoulder and felt a tremor flow through the child.
The tension in the room already high, Elizabeth fought to keep herself calm, even though her insides were screaming to match his hostility with some of her own. No one, not even her brother, dictated to her in such a way—and in front of his daughter! How could he not realize he was frightening the child? She briefly closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and collected herself.
“We can discuss that later, away from Phoebe.” She leaned down to the child. “Sweet, why don’t you play with your pretty dolls while I speak with your father.” Phoebe didn’t move. “It is all right. I’ll be right here if you need me.”
The child hesitated a moment longer before she relented. Taking a bit of time to collect herself, Elizabeth kept her unfocused eyes on Phoebe as the girl returned to her dolls.
Being at odds with Gabe made her uncomfortable. Their relationship had always been easygoing and fun. The animosity that had sparked between them worried her. Made her wonder what happened to the young man who had dried her tears so many years ago.
Gabe harrumphed softly behind her. She smiled. That was the Gabe she knew, always impatient and arrogant enough to let it be known. She turned and noted his features were relaxed once more. He must have used the same moment to let go of his anger.
“You are good with her.” He gave a slight nod in Phoebe’s direction.
She glanced to the tiny sprite, intently playing with her dolls, before she answered. “Thank you.” She caught his gaze and held it. “She is very beautiful.”
His voice was a low murmur. “Yes, she is.”
“She looks just like you. Well, besides her eyes.” She was about to question if Phoebe’s mother had similar eyes but found herself unprepared to broach that subject. Instead she decided to address a more pressing issue. “Shouldn’t someone be here with Phoebe at all times?”
“Yes, there should be. I’m not sure why there is not.” His brown eyes burned hot. She’d hate to be the one to explain why Phoebe was alone. “Believe me, I’ll be checking into it. For now, I’ll make sure someone is with her until tomorrow. After that, you can review the staff and determine a schedule. I want someone always with her. She is still unfamiliar with the house. I don’t want her wandering around. The household can manage with a few less maids until a governess or additional staff can be hired.”
He raised his brow at her. “Since it seems you’ve already made her acquaintance, do you mind staying with her until I locate Mrs. Pearce and have a maid sent up?”
Her head spun slightly from the way Gabe had taken control of the situation, but she somehow managed to give an answer. “I would love to.”
By God, how Elizabeth tempted him! But Gabe feared the other side of the world couldn’t provide enough distance to keep him from desiring her. One thing he did know. He would never find peace in his own home.
Not when his body knew a slender, but well-endowed, female inhabited the bedroom a mere floor above him. It seemed her very essence had penetrated every door and wall of the house, giving him no escape.
How that had been possible in a few short hours he had no idea, but nonetheless, he didn’t like it. And he didn’t like the man he’d become around her. She’d generously offered her time to assist with his daughter, but he couldn’t stop the irritation that stroked him whenever they were in the same room. Purely because he knew he could never have her as he wished.
He took a deep breath, hoping to find the strength to deal with his newly acquired female companions. Trying to stop the craving pulsing through his body, he rested his head against the high-back seat and closed his eyes.
A vision of Elizabeth in a light gossamer gown played across his mind.
His eyes snapped open, erasing the picture, all too familiar with where such thoughts would take him. He already straddled a cliff with his arousal. He didn't need to be pushed over the edge with no release available.
Hell, he’d never get through this night if he didn’t settle his brain on more mundane things. Even now he was on the verge of doing something he hadn’t done in an awfully long time—retiring before midnight.
“Pardon the interruption, Your Grace, but this was just delivered for you.”
Wilkes crossed the study to present Gabe the letter before retreating as silently as he’d appeared.
A case of self-preservation screamed for Gabe to discard the letter, unread
, for it looked exactly like the one he’d discovered the night before. So much for hoping his blackmailer had come to his senses.
Since ignoring it wouldn’t make it go away, Gabe unfolded the paper.
How daring of you to add more females to your household. Especially, the Earl of Foxmoore’s sister. Aren’t you afraid you’ll send her to her death just like poor Mary?
It wasn’t a secret Elizabeth had moved into his town house, but a chill ran down Gabe’s back as he realized the man kept an eye on him.
What would your dear friend Foxmoore think of his sister residing under the same roof as a murderer?
There it was. The word Gabe had silently called himself for seven years but never had the gall to say aloud. Murderer.
Now, on to what I want for my silence. Power. I want to know I have the power to control the Duke of Wesbrook. That no matter what sudden whim I have, you will carry out my bidding. And to test your willfulness, your first feat is to part with some of the newfound wealth your young steward has earned for you.
And just a warning, don’t challenge me. You will live to regret it.
The letter continued with directions on where and when to deliver the money. The man had no doubt plotted cleverly, because Gabe couldn’t think of a single way to unearth him.
Since receiving the first threat, he’d hoped the man would toss out some quick demands and he’d be done with it. Gabe had obviously underestimated his opponent. The man wanted more than everyday blackmail; he seemed to lust for revenge. Why else the desire to control?
Gabe wasn’t about to forfeit his life to an unknown assailant. If that was the case, he’d be better off revealing his past himself. Regardless, he wouldn’t bow down to some miscreant intent on destroying him.
Unfortunately at the moment, his harasser held all the cards and Gabe was at a disadvantage. It burned to do so, but until he found a way around the man, he’d have to pay to keep him quiet.
Chapter 7
For Elizabeth, the next few days were filled with both success and struggles. Her favorites were the days she observed Phoebe relax and become comfortable with her situation. Even though the child’s amiable nature had much to do with it, Elizabeth liked to believe the countless hours she’d spent with her, playing dolls, had contributed.
Of course, Phoebe did have her difficulties. Elizabeth would often find her staring off at nothing and it would take several minutes for Elizabeth to retrieve the girl’s attention. Luckily, it happened less frequently as the days went on. Yet she still held herself detached, as if afraid to get comfortable because she’d be sent to a new place again.
For as much joy as Elizabeth felt, it was equally matched with days of utter frustration. Soon after her arrival, it became blatantly obvious Gabe’s household was hardly outfitted to handle a child. Through Mrs. Pearce’s direction, the nursery had been equipped with all the basic essentials. However, no amount of proper furniture would turn a bachelor’s house into a home for a child.
Not about to be deterred, each day Elizabeth presented Wilkes with a new list of supplies that were needed. After three or so days, the daily number of items she requested had dwindled. Soon there would be no more lists, Phoebe would finally have all she needed, and the days of frustration would come to an end.
Elizabeth wouldn’t allow herself to celebrate quite yet. Even if she managed to dispel the frustration, she would still be plagued by annoyance from a completely different source . . . Gabe.
Other than the first afternoon in Phoebe’s room, he hadn’t spent more than fifteen minutes in his daughter’s company. Since Phoebe consumed the majority of Elizabeth’s time, Elizabeth hadn’t seen him for more than fifteen minutes herself.
She might desire Gabe’s attentions, but her dissatisfaction was nothing compared to the ire she felt on Phoebe’s behalf. The poor child had lost her mother along with the only life she’d known. The least Gabe could do was spend time with his daughter, for there was no mistaking the wonder that flashed across Phoebe’s face whenever her eyes landed on her father. Apparently, Gabe was proficient at melting hearts of all ages.
Years of dealing with her brother had taught Elizabeth the stubbornness of men, and she conceded little to no control over Gabe and his actions. She’d have to be content with making certain Phoebe had the best of everything. It had become Elizabeth’s new purpose.
Between sifting through letters of reference in the search for a governesses and making sure Phoebe had all the material items necessary, Elizabeth did whatever she could to bring a smile to the child’s face; anything to chase away the sadness that lingered about her.
With that goal in mind, Elizabeth added one extra item to the list she’d given Wilkes the day before. A music box. As one would expect, the home of a rake didn’t possess much along the lines of musical entertainment. Instead of sending for a pianoforte, Elizabeth decided to settle on something easy for young fingers to work that would play a simple melody.
Due to Wilkes’s efficiency and a few hardworking servants, Elizabeth was now able to relax in a chair, musical box on the round side table next to her playing a sweet tune, and watch enjoyment spring from each ungraceful step Phoebe took as she swirled around the floor hanging onto Aunt Millie’s hands.
Regardless of what she had said to Gabe and Marcus about knowing the needs of a child, Elizabeth wasn’t entirely confident in her ability. Instead of being intimidated, she turned to memories of her mother. Some of her happiest recollections were of the two of them dancing together, often with Elizabeth standing on her mother’s feet since she’d been too young to know the proper steps.
The past fresh in her mind as she focused on Phoebe’s dark curls bouncing with each movement, a twinge of heartache pressed on the edge of Elizabeth’s enjoyment. Now was not the time for melancholy reflections. She pushed the feeling aside and gave her full attention to the footwork Aunt Millie tried to encourage the visibly ecstatic child to emulate.
“Now follow me, child,” Aunt Millie instructed, taking a half step to the side. “That’s it. Good job.”
Phoebe smiled a toothy grin at Aunt Millie’s praise and it warmed Elizabeth’s heart to see the child so happy.
The notes from the musical box came to an end and yet even without it, the two continued to circle the floor. Elizabeth quickly grabbed the box and wound it. She had set it back on the table when she caught sight of Gabe standing in the doorway, fixated on his child.
As if mesmerized by the sight before him, he stood motionless, his posture neutral, hiding his thoughts. However, as she took in his passive features, her gaze fell on his eyes and there was no mistaking the gentleness hidden within the warm brown.
He studied his daughter a few seconds longer before he locked on Elizabeth. Caught gawping at him, she froze. The room seemed to crackle with a heightened energy. Phoebe and Aunt Millie continued to move about the makeshift dance floor, oblivious to the new tension flowing through the room’s atmosphere.
Gabe gave a sharp shake of his head, dislodging their connection. Realizing he was about to escape, she jumped to her feet.
Her aunt spoke before Elizabeth could stop him. “Gabriel, boy, why don’t you stay and show Phoebe how it is properly done. We could use a man to partner with.”
His discomfort palpable, Elizabeth thought he’d still make good on his departure, but instead of offering an excuse, he turned to Phoebe once more. He’d have had to be blind to miss the anticipation written across the child’s face.
Personally acquainted with his soft spot for catering to the whims of young girls, Elizabeth wasn’t surprised when he agreed to the request. “I only have a few minutes but I could spare some for one quick dance.” He walked further into the room. “What will it be? A quadrille?”
“Actually, I was thinking of a waltz,” Aunt Millie corrected him.
“A . . . a waltz?”
“Certainly the very graceful Duke of Wesbrook knows how to dance a simple waltz,” Aunt Millie added, making Elizabeth suspect the older woman was conspiring something.
Gabe smoothed out his features, ducal assurance sliding into place as he offered a hand to Elizabeth’s aunt and smoothly answered, “Partnering with you in a daring waltz will be my pleasure, Lady Millicent.”
Instead of agreeing, her aunt shook her head. “Oh, no, dear. As much as I hate to admit it, I need to rest my aging body. I’m afraid you’ll have to settle with gracing the floor with my niece.”
Elizabeth knew her aunt and was well aware of the woman’s stamina. She had no need to rest, especially when only a few minutes ago she had been whirling around the room with Phoebe—very enthusiastically, in fact.
Aunt Millie clearly had seen a chance to throw Gabe and Elizabeth together.
When Gabe turned to her, his eyes were stormy and she couldn’t decipher what ran through his attractive head. Her hope vanished, certain he’d refuse. Unwilling to subject herself to his rejection, she opened her mouth to rebuff him the same moment he spoke.
“It would be my pleasure.”
Tension filled his voice, hinting it would be anything but a pleasure. But without causing a scene, she had no option but accept his grudgingly given offer.
“Excellent. The two of you get ready and I’ll wind the musical box. It isn't the exact melody you need but it will do.” Aunt Millie set off to do precisely that. “Phoebe, dear, come and sit by me as we watch your papa and Lizzy dance.”
The Duke's Temptation Page 6
