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

by Marie Higgins

  He hoped not. His heart had been so full of emotion last night, he could have told Juliana he loved her. He almost did, in fact. But would it have been a lie? He desired her beyond any woman he’d ever met. Love was a strong word...a committed word. Was he ready to say it?

  Probably not. Especially if Juliana had feelings for another man.

  Then again, if Gregg was the true man Juliana wanted, why did she agree to make love to Andrew last night?

  Andrew’s heart lifted in small degrees. Perhaps she did love him and not Gregg?

  After an hour of waiting, heavy footsteps pounded on the hard wood floor in the walkway, and Andrew spun around to greet the person entering. A tall, dark haired man walked toward him. At first Andrew thought it was Gregg, but when the man stepped into the light, he could tell this man was older, and more refined. The man actually radiated gentility.

  The Duke of Ashton.

  The man held no pleasant expression. Instead, his face hardened as he glared at Andrew.

  “I am certain you are aware how ill-mannered it is for you to barge into my home without a scheduled appointment?”

  Andrew nodded. “Indeed, but this is a matter that could not wait to be discussed. I assume you are the Duke of Ashton?”

  “You assumed correctly.”

  Andrew bowed, remembering his learning. “It is a pleasure to meet you, finally.”

  “My butler informed me you wanted to talk to me about my brother, Gregg.”

  “Indeed I do, my lord.”

  Nicholas Fielding, the Duke of Ashton, motioned to the sofa. “Then please, have a seat and we shall discuss this most important matter.”

  “If you don’t mind, I would rather stand.”

  Nicholas shrugged. “Do whatever you wish, but I shall sit.” He walked to the winged black leather chair and sat, linking his fingers across his middle. “Now what is the urgency that involves my wayward brother?”

  “Your Grace, please forgive the urgency of the situation, but a grave injustice was done last night by your brother, and I have come to set things right.”

  Nicholas’ eyes narrowed and he tilted his head. “Have we met before, sir?”

  “I do not believe so.”

  “What is your name?”

  Andrew cleared his throat, preparing to tell another one of Juliana’s lies. “I am Andrew Lawrence, Your Grace.”

  “Lawrence? Are you by chance related to Matthew Lawrence, Earl of Grenwick?”

  Andrew shrugged. “I do know I’m related in some manner, but distantly, I am certain. I’ve lived in Scotland all my life.”

  Nicholas tapped his chin with his finger. “It’s remarkable, you know. For being a distant relation, you resemble Matthew perfectly.”

  “Indeed?” Andrew raised his brows. “Then I will have to meet this man in the near future.”

  The duke nodded. “And I will be most happy to introduce you. The earl and his wife do not socialize much any longer, so I would have to arrange a meeting.”

  “Indeed? I wonder why.”

  “About seventeen years ago, their only son was kidnapped while in the company of his governess. I fear Matthew and Annie have not recovered from the tragic ordeal.”

  “How very sad for them.”

  Nicholas waved his hand. “We have gotten off the subject. Now tell me this great wrong my brother committed last night.”

  Andrew took a deep breath, hoping not to lose his temper. “Last night at my wife’s birthday ball, your brother rescued my sister-in-law, Madeline, from being attacked by another man.”

  The duke’s eyes widened. “And this was the terrible crime he had committed?”

  “No, Your Grace. After he had rescued Madeline, he took advantage of her plight, and during his comforting, he seduced her and violated her himself.”

  Nicholas’ jaw hardened and he jumped out of the chair. “The devil, you say. My brother would never rape a woman.”

  Andrew folded his arms across his chest. “That is the story my sister-in-law gave me, and I have no reason to doubt her. You should have seen her torn dress, her dirt-smudged face, and the swollen eyes from crying.” He lifted his chin. “She had been raped, Your Grace.”

  The duke walked to the side counter to the brandy decanter and poured him a drink. “This is very upsetting news, Mr. Lawrence.” He tossed back the drink, gulping it down quickly. “However, I think my brother needs to be brought in on our conversation so he may defend himself.” He turned toward Andrew. “Do you not agree?”

  “Of course, Your Grace. I will be satisfied to discuss this with him as well.”

  Nicholas called to his butler then instructed him to fetch Gregg and bring him to the parlor, posthaste. It amazed Andrew how well the duke handled things, and how well he held his composure under these times of duress.

  During the wait, the duke asked questions about Andrew’s past, which he tried not to talk about. He didn’t want Nicholas guessing the lie both he and Juliana were telling.

  Finally, after forty-five minutes of pure torture, Gregg entered the room, looking as if he’d just been awakened—except for the crisp wrinkle-free clothes he wore.

  Nicholas motioned for his brother to come in further. “Gregg, we have a problem and I seriously hope you can straighten things out.”

  When Gregg recognized Andrew, his eyes widened. Andrew grinned, victory within reach.

  “What is so important that I was forced out of bed at this ungodly hour?” he said, walking to the couch and sinking in the cushions.

  “Mr. Lawrence has made some shocking incriminations, and I would like to know the truth.”

  Gregg arched a brow. “And what, pray tell, was I suppose to have done, Mr. Lawrence?”

  Andrew gritted his teeth. He could not like that man. “My sister-in-law, Madeline O’Neil—my wife’s stepsister—was raped last night, and she named you as the man who violated her.”

  Gregg jumped to his feet, his hands balled into fists by his side. “That is a lie! I did not rape her. I saved her from being raped by Lord Edward.”

  Andrew cocked his head. “So are you saying you never even touched her in an improper manner?”

  The expression on Gregg’s face turned from anger to a flush of embarrassment. His Adam’s apple bobbed. “I did not rape her,” he said again with a calmer tone.

  Nicholas glared at his brother. “Gregg, did you or did you not touch the girl in an improper manner?”

  “I didn’t violate her in any way, if that’s what you mean.”

  “That is not, and you well know it.” The duke took a deep breath and released it. “Gregg, perhaps you should tell us what exactly happened last night between you and the O’Neil girl.”

  Scrubbing his hands over his unshaven chin, Gregg marched to the liquor tray and poured himself a healthy glass of whiskey. He gulped it down, then turned and faced his brother.

  “Last night while at Mrs. Lawrence’s birthday ball, I was walking the gardens when I happened upon a couple. Clearly the woman was struggling, and I stepped in to help. After sending the vile creature who tried to harm her person on his way, I did comfort Madeline, which she appreciated and accepted wholeheartedly.”

  “Blazes, Gregg,” Nicholas growled. “Did you or did you not deflower the girl?”

  Gregg took another drink. “She is not a girl, Nick.”

  “Answer my question.”

  Gregg’s gaze darted back and forth between Andrew and the duke. Andrew held his breath, waiting for Gregg’s answer.

  The man in question tossed back the rest of his drink then set the glass on the liquor tray. He met his older brother’s glare. “Yes, I took her virginity, but I did not rape her. I did not have to force her at any time. She was a willing participant the whole time.”

  “Oh, dear Lord.” Nick sank in his chair and covered his face with his hands.

  Andrew grinned, finally feeling victorious. “Mr. Fielding, I demand you do the right thing and marry her. You know as well as I t
hat she will not make a good match now that her reputation has been sullied.”

  “And what if I say no?” Gregg barked, piercing his gaze toward Andrew.

  “Then I’ll call you out.” Andrew headed for the low-life, but the duke jumped from his chair and interceded.

  “There will be no need for that,” Nick snapped. “Mr. Lawrence, please return to your home and simmer your temper. I will have a long talk with my brother and straighten this thing out. By nightfall, we will have come to a conclusion you will be happy with, I assure you.”

  Andrew ran his fingers through his hair, sighing deeply. He had no choice. He must do as the duke ordered. And he must have faith Nicholas Fielding would talk some sense into his wayward brother.

  As Andrew departed, he wondered what Juliana’s reaction would be. Will she hate him or think he’d done the right thing?

  Only time will tell.

  Chapter Twelve

  Maddie stared at her reflection as she sat at her dressing table. Her eyes were not as puffy as they’d been last night, and she really wanted to make them appear as if she’d cried all night long.

  She had, but it was because she’d allowed Gregg to seduce her. Gregg made her desire him, but she still thought about Andrew the whole time.

  Or had she?

  Was Andrew really the man she’d wanted last night?

  She sighed and dropped her face into her hands. What had she done? She had actually given herself to a man other than the one who held her heart. None of this made sense, and she blamed Gregg Fielding. If he hadn’t have been so charming, so sweet and tender...this would not have happened. She had gotten to know him, and she couldn’t believe how much they had in common.

  Gregg had once been in love with his sister-in-law. What a coincidence. It was nice to share that with him last night, which led from comforting to caressing, to touching and kissing, and enjoying.

  Maddie stifled a sob. How could she have let Gregg into her heart when it should have been Andrew?

  Now what was she going to do? And how could she forget what had happened between her and Gregg last night? It had been unforgettable. The earth had moved.

  With another moan, she tore herself away from the dressing table and walked to her closet. She couldn’t sulk in her room all day. Eventually Juliana and Andrew would want to know the truth.

  She couldn’t confess. Telling this lie was the only way to get Gregg out of her mind, and put Andrew back where he belonged. From here on out, she had to focus on winning Andrew’s heart—no matter what the cost.

  Last night when they had finally heard her outside their door, it relieved Maddie when she realized she had stopped them from making love. When she saw Andrew’s nearly bare chest, it was all she could do not to throw herself into his arms and kiss him. As he picked her up in his strong embrace and carried her to his bed, she imagined what it would be like when he finally did this with her—without Juliana around.

  Soon, Andrew, my love. Soon you will be mine.

  A soft knock came upon the door, then her sister’s voice, calling her name. Maddie frowned. Why couldn’t it had been Andrew coming to comfort her in her time of need? “Come in.”

  The door opened and Juliana stepped in, looking radiant in her yellow and gold day dress. Why did Juliana have to be so pretty...and so cheerful?

  “Good morning.” Juliana walked to her and patted her cheek. “How are you holding up this afternoon?”

  I’d be better if Andrew were with me. “I’m all right, I suppose.” She looked past Juliana toward the hallway. “Where is Andrew?”

  “I do not know. He left early this morning, and he hasn’t returned.”

  Maddie’s heart sank. His adorable face and heart-warming smile would have cheered her up right now.

  She turned back to her closet and pushed through her many day frocks. Which one would she look the prettiest in? Which one would prove to Andrew she was a woman and not a mere girl?

  “Maddie,” her sister said as she walked to the bed and sat on the edge of the mattress. “Will you tell me what happened last night with Gregg?”

  Madeline sighed heavily. She really didn’t want to tell Juliana. But her sister would believe Gregg over her anyway, so she might as well relate the story.

  “After Gregg stopped Lord Edward from attacking me, he sat on the ground with me, covered my shoulders with his coat, and wrapped his arms around me. He comforted me, which was what I really needed at that time.”

  “Go on.” Juliana nodded.

  “We started talking, and he shared a lot of personal things, and I felt so close to him. We talked for quite a while. Then soon, one thing led to another, and he started seducing me.” She shrugged and took a big breath. “I didn’t want to, really I didn’t. I told him to stop, but he wouldn’t.” She forced tears to come and she sniffed.

  “Did you really tell Gregg to stop?”

  Maddie spun around and faced her sister, plopping her hands on her hips. “Why don’t you believe me? Andrew does.”

  Juliana shook her head. “Because I’ve known Gregg since we were children, and he’s not the kind of man who would force a woman in any way.”

  Maddie scowled. “But you haven’t talked with Gregg on a personal level for the past several years. People can change, Juliana. You claim you have.”

  Her sister’s forehead creased as she slowly rose to her feet. “What do you mean by that?”

  “That means I don’t believe you have changed, dear sister. I still believe you are a selfish woman who doesn’t think of anyone but herself.” She swept her hand through the air. “You cannot even love your husband the way he deserves.”

  Juliana gasped, her gaze narrowing. “What happens between Andrew and myself is none of your concern.”

  “I happen to think differently. You do not see the pain written in his eyes like I do.”

  Juliana’s hands clenched into fists, and her lips curled into a snarl. Finally. The sister Madeline remembered.

  “Maddie, I swear, if you—”

  “What’s going on?”

  Andrew’s voice came from the doorway and both Maddie and Juliana swung in his direction. Maddie’s heart skipped in double-time. He was so handsome. How could she help but to love this man?

  “Andrew.” Juliana hurried over to him, wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him a quick kiss.

  Maddie seethed. Obviously, her sister was trying to prove a point, but Madeline could see through the jaded performance.

  “I have missed you terribly, darling,” Juliana said. “Where were you this morning?”

  He glanced from Juliana to Maddie. As each second passed, her heart sank. Why did he look at her with guilt in his eyes? What had he done?

  “Maddie? I hope you are not too upset at me, but...”

  “But what?” she asked quickly.

  “But, I took it upon myself to travel to see the Duke of Ashton and speak with him about his errant brother.”

  “What?” Maddie shrieked.

  Still holding onto Juliana, Andrew took a step toward Maddie. He reached his hand to her, and automatically, she clasped it.

  “Maddie, my dear. I had to make things right. With your parents gone, Juliana and I are your guardians now. I was only doing what your father would have done if he were here.”

  Her mouth turned cotton dry. “What...have you...done, Andrew?”

  He gave her a weak smile. “I have demanded that Gregg marry you.”

  The room tilted and all sounds faded before Maddie hit the floor. Everything turned black.

  * * * *

  Juliana paced the parlor while Andrew sipped a glass of brandy. Mixed emotions ran through her as she thought over the past twenty-four hours. What a disaster! She was so caught up in her feelings for Andrew she didn’t know what her sister had been scheming. Now Juliana knew. Maddie wanted Andrew.

  Juliana sighed heavily. Her sister had always been a quizzical girl, and now as a woman, it had gotten worst. To wh
at lengths would Maddie go to break her and Andrew apart? Juliana wouldn’t doubt her sister faked swooning earlier. But now she rested in bed with a cold rag on her forehead.

  Juliana glanced at Andrew who leaned against the wall and gazed out the window. How could she have gotten so attached to the man in such a short while? Not only was he extremely handsome, but he was full of kindness and consideration. He had a huge heart.

  Was it possible she had fallen in love with him? Why else would she be so willing to give herself to him?

  “Are you vexed with me also?”

  At the sound of Andrew’s voice, she snapped out of her thoughts and concentrated on him. He had turned away from the window and gazed her way.

  “No.”

  “You have a strange way of showing it.”

  Juliana shook her head. “I’m just amazed, that’s all.”

  “Amazed at what?”

  She walked to him and linked her fingers with his. “I’m surprised you were able to get Gregg Fielding to marry my sister.”

  Andrew shook his head. “He hasn’t agreed yet, but I think the duke will talk him into it.”

  She chuckled. “Yes, I’m quite certain Gregg’s brother will.”

  He stroked her cheek. “Why does that surprise you? Gregg ruined her for any decent man. It’s only right that he do the honorable thing and marry her.”

  “You don’t understand. By making Gregg marry Maddie, you have found her the perfect husband.” He arched a brow, so she quickly continued. “Gregg is considered amongst the ton as the perfect man. Although he doesn’t hold a title, he’s very wealthy, indeed.”

  He shook his head. “Does it not matter to you that he raped her?”

  She sighed and lost her smile. “Oh, Andrew. I think my sister has you duped. I don’t think Maddie was raped.”

  He held up his hands. “Not this again.”

  He tried to turn away, but Juliana grabbed his arm. “Andrew, please listen to me. Why do you always take Maddie’s side? Why can you not hear me out first?”

  When he nodded, she took his hand and led him to the sofa. They both sat and she kept his hand in hers.