Color of Deception (Sullyard Sisters Book 1)

by Ruth J. Hartman

  “Without even making their acquaintance, I am most assured that you are the loveliest.” He winked.

  Kitty’s face heated. She’d often been told the same by those who had seen all three sisters together. She didn’t know why she’d been blessed with such an appearance. Red hair, green eyes, and a striking figure.

  But for Mr. Bexley to say something so brash to her and without even having set eyes on her sisters, made something in the pit of her stomach quiver like a new leaf in a strong breeze.

  She opened her mouth to tell him that in fact he could see one of her sisters if he’d look ten feet to the left, but the way he was staring at her, peering into her eyes, stole whatever words she’d been about to say.

  If the man wasn’t interested in buying some of her art, was only wanting to ogle her, she needed to find a polite way to get him to leave. Flirting was one thing, but she was there to try to sell her artwork. Robert demanded a precise accounting at the end of each day to see how many the girls had sold.

  Reaching out her hand, Kitty hoped he’d return the panorama without her having to ask. She forced herself to meet his eye. “Thank you for your kind words about my painting, Mr. Bexley.”

  He moved the panorama just out of her reach. “I’m not so sure I want to give it back.”

  “Pardon?” She frowned and lowered her hand. Was he thinking to abscond with her work? With something of which she’d spent countless hours bent over in concentration? Her back and neck still hurt from the work she’d done the evening prior.

  He raised one eyebrow. “I’d like to purchase it. If it’s for sale, that is.”

  “Oh.” Her inner self clapped for joy. “Of course.”

  “What is your price?” He held up his hand. “Wait. No don’t tell me.” With narrowed eyes, he ran his gaze from her chin to her eyes. “Perhaps there’s a way to—”

  “To what?” she blurted.

  Mr. Bexley leaned toward her slightly. “Will you come with me?”

  Anger shot through her. Go with him? “Forgive my impertinence, but I don’t believe I like direction in which this conversation is headed.” Kitty tapped her boot on the path. What in the world was he playing at? She wasn’t some bit of muslin he could simply whisk off for a quick tumble.

  But when you flirt, isn’t that what you lead most men to believe?

  He laughed, a deep rumble that flowed over Kitty’s skin, making her tremble. “It’s not how it sounds, I assure you.”

  Kitty swallowed hard. “And why should I trust you?”

  Mr. Bexley stepped closer. “Surely there is someone here with you?”

  “My sister.” She tilted her head toward Patience. They’d attempted to get their great-aunt to accompany them but she’d insisted it was time for her afternoon nap. She’d stayed home. Robert hadn’t blinked an eye when he told them to go along without her.

  “Ah. Your sister is indeed lovely. However, I stand by my earlier assessment of your beauty.”

  Was he mad? Speaking to her like that with people passing by who could overhear?

  “Mr. Bexley—”

  “I don’t have anything untoward in mind, I assure you. As a matter of fact, I’d like to take you—and your sister— to my place of employment.”

  “I don’t think—”

  “Please.” The word was uttered so softly, she imagined it was the whisper of the breeze instead of his voice.

  “Only if you tell me the reason. I’ll not go off with a man… with anyone simply because he asks.” Even if his eyes were the bluest she’d ever seen.

  Mr. Bexley held up the panorama. “Because of this. I think with your talent, and my business knowledge, you and I could have something mutually beneficial.”

  Mutually…. “No… No I couldn’t.” She was fairly certain he wasn’t speaking of her work anymore. Something warned her that he was the type to not take no for an answer if Kitty felt that a situation hadn’t gotten out of hand.

  He sighed. “Miss Sullyard, if I indeed had an interest in absconding with you, couldn’t I have simply grabbed your hand and tugged you away from your wares, no matter who witnessed it?”

  “I suppose…” Kitty glanced around at all the people milling about the bazaar. If one person tried to leave with another against her will, someone would notice. Mr. Bexley was correct. Suddenly the notion of someone like him acting in such a fashion seemed ridiculous.

  “Let me ask you this. How have your sales been here lately? Making a nice profit?”

  She tamped down instant irritation at his impertinence. “That’s none of your concern.”

  “True enough. I beg your pardon. I only wished to convey my reason for wanting you to accompany me. I work for Sporting Magazine. I assume you’ve heard of it?”

  “Of course.” Not that her family could afford to buy a subscription.

  “It is my family’s company. My father has tasked me to find new ways of enticing readers to buy a subscription.” Mr. Bexley held up the panorama. “And I truly believe that this may be the key.”

  Kitty hadn’t told Mr. Bexley about her sales. Had she done so, it wouldn’t have been a pretty tale. She tilted her head as she studied him. He sounded sincere. If he really could help her to make more money by painting something for the magazine, shouldn’t she at least hear him out?

  Kitty caught her sister’s eye. Patience had finished her conversation with the older couple and was watching Kitty with one eyebrow raised.

  Although their great-aunt should be with them when they accompanied Mr. Bexley, at least they would have each other. It was of the utmost importance that Kitty go with Mr. Bexley that day. It would be a travesty if she missed out on something to help make more money for her family.

  Wouldn’t it?

  Also, if she made Robert happy that would only help the tense atmosphere at home.

  Decision made, she gave a single nod.

  “Splendid.” Mr. Bexley smiled at Kitty. “Shall we?

  Chapter Four

  The sound of boots on the hardwood floor reached Nathaniel. Irritation caused him to grind his teeth together. Would his lazy cousin never put in a full day’s work? It was no wonder Nathaniel had to work late into the night at times. Someone had to complete the work that Stratford left undone.

  Wait.

  He frowned. It sounded like more than one pair of boots. Nathaniel angled around. A woman, tall and red-haired stood next to Stratford. Her clear green eyes took in the surroundings of the office. Stratford offered her his arm and led her nearer.

  Nathaniel stared at the woman. It couldn’t be helped. Her flawless ivory skin begged to be touched, as did tiny wisps of red curls that hung just below the brim of her bonnet. Without his consent, Nathaniel’s hands curled in his lap, a longing to press his fingers against her skin so strong it nearly hurt.

  A sharp punch-like thump hit Nathaniel’s chest. Had lightning just struck his heart? Something was making his heartbeat flip like a jester at the circus. His mouth went dry but his palms perspired profusely. He wiped them on his trousers.

  What am I thinking? This is madness.

  Yet, the longer he gazed at her, the more forceful the feeling became. Her dress appeared to be that of someone who hadn’t a lot in the way of money. It was clean and mended, but definitely not new. Who was she? And why was she with—

  Stratford glanced at Nathaniel. “Mr. Bexley, I’d like to introduce you to the Miss Sullyards.”

  Until his cousin indicated more than one Miss Sullyard, Nathaniel hadn’t noticed the blond young woman standing behind Stratford. She was pretty, but paled in comparison to the red-haired beauty.

  Suddenly aware that he still sat at his worktable, Nathaniel stood so quickly his wooden chair wobbled on two legs behind him, threatening to topple to the floor. Heat spread over his face and he grabbed the back of the chair to right it on all four legs. He swallowed with difficulty, his mouth even drier than moments before, like the dust that swirled around his aunt’s garden in the m
iddle of a hot, rainless week of summer.

  Nathaniel gave a slight bow, hoping he didn’t fall over as his chair had nearly done. “Good day, ladies.”

  The women both curtseyed, but Nathaniel only focused on one. She blinked, her long auburn lashes brushing against her cheeks, echoing the way Nathaniel’s fingers wanted to brush her skin. A smile curled her lips as she answered, “Good day.”

  Her skirts rustled as Stratford helped her to sit down on the chair next to Nathaniel’s. The blonde was invited to take a seat across from them.

  His Miss Sullyard gazed up dreamily at Stratford, making Nathaniel’s blood boil. Why did his cousin always attract all the women? Was it simply the way he flirted with them? Touched them when he shouldn’t and devoured them with his gaze?

  Nathaniel had said no to Stratford’s offer of help with women because he didn’t need it. He’d grown up with his cousin and knew pretty well how to act as Stratford did. He’d just never seen the point. It wasn’t his way. Nathaniel watched Miss Sullyard, her cheeks pinkening after Stratford gave her a wink.

  Nathaniel sat down as well, longing to be as close to her as possible. What in the world was happening? It was as if she had some kind of power that he couldn’t resist. In the past, he’d never been a believer of spells, but perhaps he would believe now. The woman was truly unforgettable. Magical. Ethereal.

  Ethereal?

  Nathaniel shook his head hard, hoping to regain his good sense. I really am losing my faculties.

  Stratford stood on the other side of her, his hand settling proprietarily on the back of the chair.

  Fire burned in Nathaniel’s belly and he longed to pummel his cousin in a fit of jealous rage. I’ll not have it. Not this time. This woman is different. She’s to be mine.

  Saints above.

  Nathaniel gulped a deep breath. For a man normally quiet and mild, the harsh feelings assailing him were almost frightening. Yet there they remained.

  It couldn’t be helped. He didn’t understand it. Couldn’t explain it. Neither could he stop it. Part of him wasn’t sure if he even wished the images to leave because an excitement he’d never experienced had taken over his body and heart.

  Maybe he enjoyed it a little.

  Maybe more than a little.

  “Mr. Bexley?” Stratford’s voice startled him back to reality.

  “Um, yes?”

  “The sisters are artists.”

  “I… see.” So she was talented as well as lovely.

  “I’ve taken it upon myself to speak to Father about the elder Miss Sullyard.”

  Nathaniel lowered his brows. What was he saying? Speak to his father? Had Stratford and idea to offer for the woman’s hand? No, I won’t hear of it. Nathaniel opened his mouth, ready to say something but Stratford interrupted.

  “Father has a few minutes just now, so I’m off to speak with him about possibly doing business with Miss Sullyard.”

  “Business?” Concern ran through his mind. What was he—

  “With her paintings. As I explained to her on the way here, the magazine often makes use of trinkets and such as a way to entice readers to buy a subscription.” Stratford touched Miss Sullyard’s shoulder lightly, as if he had the right. Had permission to stand so near.

  Her gaze darted briefly to his hand and then quickly away. Her face colored an attractive rose, making her even lovelier than before. If that was possible.

  “Oh.” Was all Nathaniel managed to say.

  “So, I’m off to speak with him. I would mention the younger Miss Sullyard’s work as well, but her sister wanted to wait, because of her youth. I’ll be back straight away.” Stratford pivoted away, giving a backward wave as he left.

  Alone. I am in this room alone with her.

  What an idiot he was. They weren’t alone. With a quick gaze at the younger sister, Nathaniel gave her a brief nod before returning his attention to Miss Sullyard.

  A strange sensation settled over him. His fingers tingled as if ready to fall asleep, and a not unpleasant lethargy took hold of his arms and legs, but his heart still raced. There was something about her. Something he couldn’t explain. All he knew was, she was special. Perfect. His.

  If he was to have a chance with her, any chance at all, he’d need to adopt Stratford’s way of action. Much as he loathed being anything like his cousin, if the way Miss Sullyard had watched Stratford leave the room was any indication, she was already becoming smitten.

  No. If I must act the part of the rake to gain her attention, so be it. If she one day would be mine… He shook his head. When she is mine, I can show her my true spirit. That I’m gentle and loving and— Nathaniel cleared his throat. “Miss Sullyard, how pleasant to hear you are an artist. What do you like to paint?”

  She reached into her reticule and produced a small wooden cylinder a few inches high. What in the world was it? It surely didn’t remind him of anything artistic he’d ever seen. Had Stratford only given her compliments on it to lure her to the office? It sounded like something his letch of a cousin would do.

  To his amazement, Miss Sullyard handed the cylinder to him. What was he to do with it? Pretend amazement at her artistic ability of the wooden item? His breathing hitched when she reached toward him, grasping one edge where he now noticed, a sliver of paper peeked out.

  With a smile, she said, “If you’ll just give this a light tug, you can see the panorama.”

  Panorama? An image of a huge painting by Robert Barker at Leicester Square ran across his mind. Was the beautiful young woman perhaps daft?

  He hoped not. It would be a shame for such beauty to be marred in any way. But what was he to do? Miss Sullyard peered directly at him, the corners of her eyes squinting and her mouth curving up.

  Gingerly, almost afraid he’d break the tiny, nearly- weightless object, Nathaniel did as requested and lifted the edge that ran in a perfect straight line down the cylinder’s side.

  As he tugged, the paper came out away from its roll and a rainbow of colors appeared. He leaned down.

  Why, it was…

  A grouping of horses ran inside a ring, a lone rider standing astride on top of their backs. Vivid colors surrounded the white horses as they ran past a vast crowd of onlookers. “Astley’s Amphitheatre?”

  A becoming blush bloomed on her cheeks. “So it is recognizable, then?”

  Nathaniel gave her his best wink, affecting Stratford’s actions. “Miss Sullyard, I have never seen its equal. You do indeed have quite the talent. And the paintings are so diminutive. However did you manage to portray so much detail in a tiny space?”

  She lifted on shoulder in a shrug. “I know not. It’s something we’ve just always done.”

  “We?”

  “My sisters and I.” She tilted her head to the other young woman. “And Cousin Robert. That is, he used to. Before his arthritis.”

  The sister stood and strolled to the opposite wall. With her back turned, she appeared to be admiring the framed covers of past issues of the magazine.

  Nathaniel lowered his voice and tapped the paper lightly. “Your siblings are this talented as well?”

  She ducked her head. “My younger sisters are more talented than I.”

  “Hard to imagine.” Nathaniel leaned ever so slightly in her direction.

  “Thank you for the kind words. But it’s true. Lydia and Patience are incredible artists. I only wish I had their gift.”

  “I haven’t seen their work and don’t know of their gifts, but I honestly cannot envision anyone possessing more talent than you have conveyed in this tiny panorama.”

  “You are most kind. Might I inquire… how are you and Mr. Bexley—” She tilted her chin in the direction of the hallway. “—related?”

  Blast! Why did she want to talk about Stratford? “Cousins.” Unfortunately. “I’m afraid I’m not fortunate enough to have siblings as you do.”

  “There are days I wish I was an only child.” Her words came out as a whisper. She bit her lip and her ey
es crinkled at the corners. Was she trying not to show mirth?

  “There are days I—” Nathaniel darted a quick glance to the open doorway and back. “—wish I had no cousins, as well.”

  Laugher bubbled up from his chest, which seemed to give Miss Sullyard permission to add her own mirth. Adorable giggles popped from her lips, the sound quite like the champagne his aunt insisted on at Christmas dinner.

  Nathaniel was vaguely aware of people moving past the room in the hallway and of Miss Sullyard’s sister several feet away. But somehow, the thrill of being in the room nearly alone with her, even though the door was wide open and they weren’t truly alone, overshadowed anything that was happening apart from Miss Sullyard and him.

  “Your cousin told me some of what he does here at the magazine. What is it you happen to do, Mr. Bexley?

  Most of Stratford’s work and all of mine. Again with the cousin. At least she wanted to know something about Nathaniel too. He waved a hand. “A little of a lot of things.”

  “If you’ve talent in many things, then I daresay you’re quite important to the company.”

  “I don’t know about that. While it’s true that the business is run by my family, I’m only a nephew, not a…”

  “Son?”

  Nathaniel’s face heated. “Not that I have any complaints, mind you.” He slid a quick glance at the doorway, relieved to see no one there right at the moment. Wouldn’t that be just perfect if Stratford or Uncle Gilbert happened along right then?

  She placed her hand on his arm. “Oh, of course not. I hadn’t meant anything untoward by that. Please don’t…”

  Heat seeped through his clothing to his skin right under the spot where her hand was. Extraordinary that he’d feel such intense warmth when he had not only his shirt over his skin, but his coat as well. Nathaniel peered directly at her, not letting his natural backwardness take over. He neither blinked nor looked away, willing her to know how her touch affected him.