True Love's Deception (book 3) (The Fielding Brothers Saga)

by Marie Higgins

  He pulled the horse and buggy to the side of the road and stopped. With a straight back, he turned in the seat and met her gaze. The sadness in his eyes tugged at her heart. But she mustn’t let it sway her.

  “Pray tell, Juliana. What sort of problems will happen if we stay longer?”

  She blew out a pent-up breath. “Have you not realized, Andrew, that you’re using someone else’s name? The Lawrence name is very well-known through town.”

  His eyebrow arched. “And how was it that I’d gotten the name?”

  She folded her arms and lifted her chin. “I know, I gave you the name. But at the time, I thought we were only going to be here a short time. I had no idea you would want to prolong our visit. Now I fear we will come across someone who knows the Lawrence family.”

  “And if we do, I have confidence you will create a splendid lie, once again.”

  Her chest clenched, taking offense at his words. Didn’t he understand she didn’t want to lie? Because of the situation her father and stepmother put her in, she had to lie. Andrew made it sound as if deceiving people was something she did on a daily basis. The pain in her chest boiled to anger. How dare he accuse her of being the artful deceiver when his life had been nothing but one lie after the other?

  She gripped the handle of her parasol tighter to keep from slapping his face. Her attention wandered to the carriages passing by. A few people she recognized, and since they didn’t bother to raise a hand in greeting, neither would she.

  “As it is,” she told him, “I think it would be best if we kept a low profile. I can only tell people you are a long lost cousin of the Lawrence family for so long without having them ask questions.”

  He shrugged and sank into the seat, the reins dangling between his fingers. “What do you suggest we do, then? I’ve obviously ruined your plans and now we have to stay with your sister for the duration of your parents’ trip to Paris.”

  Adjusting in her seat, she smoothed out the wrinkles of her dress. “I hope I have helped in getting my parents off to Paris quicker. Constance told me the next passage to Paris leaves on the night of my birthday. I convinced her and Father that if they left the party early to catch the ship, it would be all right.” She grinned. “Of course, that means I will get the inheritance sooner.”

  “That’s excellent. Now what about keeping out of the public eye? How do you suggest I go about doing that?”

  “I suggest you stay as close to the manor as possible. My father has a very large estate, and you are more than welcome to ride his horses.”

  His lips thinned. “And whom, pray, do you expect me to keep company with? The stable hand?”

  “Well of course not, Andrew. My sister and I will keep you entertained.”

  He lifted an eyebrow. “Thank you for your offering, my dear. Already the next month looks brighter, and I greatly anticipate our time together.”

  Juliana scowled. His tone of voice contradicted his words. By his sneer, he was far from excited. She waved her hand in the air. “As it is, that’s what I propose. I think we should both stay out of the way of society’s curious eyes and gossiping tongues.”

  “What about your birthday ball? How many people are your parents inviting? Won’t there be gossip mongers there also?”

  “My father has promised me he kept the guest list small. I told him you were uncomfortable with large gatherings.”

  The corner of his lip lifted. “You don’t say. And why am I uncomfortable?”

  “Because you’re a shy man. You have never been in large crowds before...which is why we met in Scotland where you were staying with relatives.”

  He tilted back his head and laughed. The deep timbre of his voice caused shivers to dance over her skin. She hated when her body reacted that way. Underneath her breath, she cursed. He’s just a man! A stable hand! For the hundredth time, she scolded herself for having any kind of feelings for him. Just because his intoxicating eyes could weaken her knees and his smile could cause her to lose her breath didn’t mean she needed to act like an infatuated schoolgirl.

  His warm gaze met hers and her heart skipped a beat. He lifted his hand and stroked her cheek as his attention dropped to her lips. Her heartbeat thudded quicker against her ribs.

  “You can’t help it, can you?”

  She blinked. “Pardon me?”

  “You’re charming no matter how hard I try to convince myself otherwise.”

  What in heaven’s name kind of comment was that? She couldn’t figure out if he was paying her a compliment or condemning her. “I suppose I should thank you for saying that.”

  He nodded. “I suppose.” He grinned. “But you won’t.”

  She shrugged. “Very true.” She straightened her back and faced the road ahead. “I also think we should continue with our ride. Keep it short, though.”

  He turned in his seat and gripped the reins. “As you wish, Duchess.”

  She growled and threw him a glare. “Was that called for?”

  “What?”

  “The tone of voice in which you used just now.”

  He chuckled and shook his head. “My dear, with you, anything is called for.”

  He flipped the reins and the horses jumped into a trot. Juliana’s heart ached, her throat tight with emotion. Was it necessary to treat him in such a way? She certainly didn’t approve of his reactions to her, which in turn made her lash out with her sharp tongue. It wasn’t his fault. This was the only way she could stop the unexplained attraction she felt toward him. Yet, it wasn’t working. Even though they still argued, she enjoyed his company.

  Out of all the men she’d met lately, Andrew outshone them in appearance and in manners. He’d make any woman swoon...even in his stable hand clothes.

  Perhaps she had been too harsh. Obviously, he appeared to be enjoying his charade, maybe she should also. Whether or not he was truly attracted to her was a different matter. She didn’t know him. This could be a game he played with women, for all she knew. If so, what would the harm be in playing along? Once they returned to Scotland, he’d go back to being her stable hand, and she’d continue to be the mistress of the manor. They never had to see each other if that was what she desired.

  Releasing a deciding sigh, she sank back in her seat. Perhaps going along with Andrew’s game might pass the time quicker. Becoming a pleasant woman would be something new for her, and if she dared to admit, she had enjoyed it thus far.

  She gazed to the side of the road. As they passed a connecting path, a man astride a horse caught her attention. The way he held himself looked familiar, but it was the way his sandy-blond hair curled around his head that made her want to laugh.

  Lord Edward Carlton looked as dashing now as he did a few years ago. During that particular visit with her parents, Lord Edward had tried to court her. She refused him quite openly. But at the time, she’d been treating everyone with disdain.

  His gaze met hers and he slowed his horse. A bushy eyebrow rose as his attention swept over her. She gasped and prayed he wouldn’t want to come and talk. But when his gaze shifted from her to Andrew, his smile widened and he urged his horse in her direction.

  Squeezing her eyes closed, she cursed under her breath. He’d definitely ask about her husband. What kind of story could she make-up now?

  “Miss Juliana,” he called.

  With a groan, she looked at him again, much closer than before. Letting out a sigh of defeat, she displayed a practiced smile and gave him a small wave. “Lord Edward. How good it is to see you again.”

  Andrew stopped the buggy. She dared glance his way, and he’d narrowed his gaze at Edward. It looked as if he had a practiced smile also.

  When Edward drew near, she tapped Andrew on the arm. “Andrew, dear. I want to introduce you to an old friend of mine.” She looked at Edward. “Lord Edward, meet my husband, Mr. Andrew Lawrence.”

  Lord Carlton tipped his hat. “So I suppose you’re not a Miss any longer, Juliana. I’d heard through the gossip mills that Ju
liana Beaumont had captured a husband. Like the others, I couldn’t believe it, but now I’m happy to say how wrong I was.”

  Juliana forced a chuckle. “Yes. As you can see, I am very happily married, and you may call me Mrs. Lawrence.”

  Andrew gave a slight bow. “It’s a pleasure to meet my wife’s friends.”

  Edward turned his big brown eyes back to Juliana. His grin widened. “I cannot wait to catch up during your birthday ball.”

  “Just as I cannot wait.” She fisted her hand in the folds of her skirt while she tightened her grip on her parasol.

  “But I am happy to have run into you, Mrs. Lawrence.”

  She didn’t like his tone of voice, but she didn’t blame him for being so cynical. She was rather harsh with him last time they talked.

  “Indeed?” she asked. “Why?”

  His posture relaxed slightly while in the saddle. His shoulders didn’t appear as wide. “I was privileged to see your sister the other day.”

  “Madeline?”

  “Yes. She has certainly matured since I saw her last.”

  Juliana laughed. “Well, Lord Edward, two years is a long time, which is how long I’ve heard you’ve been out of London.”

  “Indeed. But since I’m back, I was hoping to further my acquaintance with Miss Madeline at your party.”

  She bit her tongue, trying not to laugh out loud. He couldn’t be serious. Lord Edward had created quite a seedy reputation during the past couple of years, so she’d heard. Why the sudden interest in a girl who wasn’t even out of the schoolroom? Very curious.

  Juliana flipped her hand. “I’m certain that can be arranged. I shall introduce you at my birthday ball.”

  Edward tipped his hat. “I’d be much obliged, Mrs. Lawrence.” He nodded to Andrew. “And I hope to further our acquaintance also. I’m very interested in hearing how you came to capture our dear Juliana’s hand.”

  Andrew laughed, which sounded forced. “It’s quite a story, and I’ll be happy to talk about it. That is—” he winked at Juliana, “—as long as my wife agrees.”

  “But of course, my dear. I have nothing to hide.” She scooted next to Andrew and slipped her arm around his, cuddling closer as she smiled wide.

  “Then I shall look forward to it.” Edward straightened his shoulders. “Good day to both of you.”

  “And a good day to you,” Juliana replied.

  Silence lasted only a couple of minutes as Lord Edward rode off, then Andrew’s chuckle broke it. Juliana looked at him. “What?”

  “Now would be a good time to give me a big kiss.” He grinned.

  She rolled her eyes. “You’re incorrigible.”

  He laughed. “I presume he was one of your former adoring beau’s?”

  She scowled. “Absolutely not. He tried, but I turned away his advances.”

  “Now that I believe. Poor man. You probably ruined him for good.”

  “I did no such thing. In fact, after I’d left to go to Grandmama’s, I’d heard what scandals he’d created, and I’m most grateful I had the intelligence to turn him away.”

  His grin disappeared. “Then why did you give him permission to call upon Madeline?”

  “I didn’t.”

  “You practically did.”

  She blew out an irritated breath. “That was all for show, Andrew. I doubt with Lord Edward’s reputation, he has little interest in a young girl like my sister.”

  Andrew clicked his tongue and urged the horses forward. “Whether you want to admit it or not, your sister looks quite mature for her age. I’m certain when she starts wearing gowns made for women—instead of for girls—she will catch the eye of many eligible men.”

  Juliana couldn’t stop the laugh from blurting out. “Until they feel the brunt of her spoiled, selfish temper.”

  He glanced at her and arched an eyebrow. “Strange. She said that about you the other day.”

  Pain, like jagged edges of a piece of glass, cut through to her heart. Apparently, her sister’s opinion of her hadn’t changed. Then again, Juliana really hadn’t done anything to change it.

  She nodded. “Maddie has every right to think the worst in me. I wasn’t a very nice sister.” She squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. “But that will soon change. I’ll prove to Maddie that I’m not the girl who tormented her as a child.”

  Andrew placed his hand on her knee and squeezed. “It makes my heart glad to hear you say that. From all the terrible things I’ve heard about you, I’m relieved to know you are not that woman any longer.”

  “I’m not, Andrew.” She swallowed the lump of emotion. “I didn’t like the girl I once was, and during our visit here, I’ll show everyone how I have changed.”

  He winked. “That’s pleases me to hear you say. When you smile, you are a very beautiful woman.”

  Her heart fluttered, and she enjoyed the rush of pleasure that surged through her from his words. She had no right to feel this way, but this time she decided not to stop it. Besides, it would make their ride a little more enjoyable, because now a charming smile graced his face. Handsome. More than she should enjoy.

  Then again...what would it hurt to enjoy Andrew if just for a few weeks more? She might as well live life to the fullest. And she couldn’t think of a better way to do it than with a handsome, charming man.

  * * * *

  “Isn’t it a lovely day?” Juliana smiled wide as she walked beside Pearl down the stone footpaths towards a milliner shop.

  Pearl tilted her head as she peered at Juliana beneath the brim of her bonnet.

  “Lass, what has ye so chipper this fine afternoon? Lately, ye’ve been so kind tae everyone, and ye walk with a bounce in yer step.”

  Juliana’s cheeks burned, and she resisted the urge to place her hands there to hide the blush. Was it that obvious? Strange she would feel this way every time she thought about Andrew. But in these last couple of days, she couldn’t wait to be near him. She couldn’t wait to dress in her prettiest frock and style her hair to perfection just to see the heated sparkle in his eyes. And especially, to hear his kind compliments.

  She shrugged and winked at Pearl. “Perhaps it’s the company I’m currently with.”

  “Oh posh!” Pearl rolled her eyes.

  Clasping her hands against her middle, Juliana breathed in a deep breath. “Or perhaps it’s because everything is going so well. Soon I’ll have my inheritance and I’ll be able to return to Scotland and pay off Grandmama’s debtors.”

  “Aye. It’ll be a grand day when she’ll be free of those people.”

  “Everything will return to normal once again.”

  “Um...lassie? Have ye forgotten one thing?”

  Juliana glanced at Pearl. “What’s that?”

  “What about Mr. Dean?”

  He hadn’t been far from Juliana’s mind, and she wasn’t surprised to have Pearl mention him. Juliana had thought about this, too, and there was only one conclusion. “After we return and I pay Mr. Dean what I’d promised, he’ll have enough money to move on. He will not have to work for us again.”

  “Very true, lassie.”

  Trying not to think of why there was suddenly a pain in her heart from thinking about Andrew being out of her life, Juliana focused on the shop ahead, and the people bustling by. Just as they neared the front door, a man walked out, bumping into her, which knocked her off balance. She stumbled and reached to grab the door, when his strong hands circled her arms to hold her aright.

  Startling blue eyes captured her attention before his worried expression turned into a smile. “Miss Juliana? Is that you?”

  She stepped out of his grasp and assessed the man who did look oddly familiar. While composing herself, she scrambled through her memory until she found his identity. As a lad, Gregg Fielding had been the kindest boy she’d known. Although he’d always been considered handsome, she favored his older brother instead...as did the other girls her age.

  “Gregg Fielding?” She laughed, taking in his t
all frame, broad shoulders and muscular build—nothing like the boy she remembered. “I almost did not recognize you.”

  He chuckled with a twinkle in his blue eyes. “I almost did not recognize you either. In fact, if I hadn’t had my mind on other things, I would have just walked right past.”

  “Indeed? Even after bumping into me? That would have been very ill-mannered of you.”

  He threw back his head and laughed, then looked at her wearing a wide smile. “Forgive me, Miss Juliana. I will withdraw my comment, because no sane man could pass you without stopping to feast his eyes on such loveliness.”

  “Oh, Mr. Fielding. Still the flatterer, I see.”

  He slipped his hand into hers, lifted her fingers to his mouth and brushed his lips across her skin. When his gaze met hers again, he grinned. “But of course, my dear. I do have a reputation to uphold.”

  She held back a laugh. Gregg had a reputation? Both he and his older brother, Nicholas Fielding, had always been perfect gentlemen. What had happened to Gregg to make him this way?

  A year ago, she’d received a letter from her father, updating her on the goings on around Town. He’d mentioned Gregg’s uncle had been betrothed to a very young woman, but was now married to Gregg’s oldest brother, Nick. But there was no mention of Gregg.

  Arching her brow, she cocked her head. “Very intriguing, Mr. Fielding. I’ll admit, you have me curious.”

  “But why?”

  She pulled her hand away from his. “Because I realize now that you are not the man I once knew.”

  He folded his arms across his chest. “And you, my dear, Miss Juliana—”

  “It’s Mrs. Lawrence,” she corrected.

  “So it is.” He nodded. “But you are not the woman I remember either.” He glanced from Pearl back to Juliana and stepped closer, putting himself between her and the maid. “And that in itself is intriguing. What say you that we discuss this miraculous change over tea?”