Ashton chuckled, amused again. “Yes.”
“This is too much,” I said. “I have never owned diamonds before.”
Ashton reached in, pulled out the bracelet, and clasped it around my wrist.
“A tragedy which has now been rectified,” he assured. He twisted his finger through one of my long curls, and followed it to its conclusion. “You, my sweet Trinity, should be swimming in diamonds.”
I looked down at my wrist and twisted it.
“It’s so beautiful. Thank you, Ashton.”
Ashton leaned down and kissed my lips. “You have nothing to thank me for.” He picked up my hand. “Perfect.” He studied the bracelet upon my wrist. With a crook of lips he kissed the top of my hand and murmured, “Absolutely perfect.”
Chapter Twelve
Briarwood Manor.
“My dove, dinner will be served promptly at six. I shall escort you to your quarters where you can take a bath, rest, prepare for this evening,” Ashton said as we made our way back to the estate house.
“Should I dress for dinner?”
Ashton nodded, smiled. “Yes.”
I studied this smile, the deep lines at the corners of his mouth, the perfection of his teeth, and the way this smile seemed to crook higher to one side.
“Ashton, you have a nice smile. You have many different smiles,” I said. “I have decided I want to learn them.”
He stopped. He placed the pad of his thumb against the curve of my lips. “Thank you, my dove, but I am sure each and every one of my smiles pales in comparison to yours.” He moved his thumb slowly, outlining my mouth.
“What is it?” I asked, unsure of his expression.
“I am flattered you wish to know my smiles.”
“I wish to know many things about you, Ashton.”
“Then we shall learn much of each other and revel in the knowledge,” he assured. Ashton moved his hand to grip on to my arm. “Watch your step, I do not wish to see you take a tumble.” He’d pulled my away from the edge of an icy spot.
“Thank you,” I said. He must have noticed my gawking.
“What is it, my dove?”
“I … it’s nothing.”
“Please, tell me,” Ashton encouraged.
“Your eyes are amazing.”
“So today, my dove. What have you decided? Am I truly a devil?”
“Angel or devil, I’m still unsure,” I mused.
Ashton’s low laugh filled in the space around us. “Ah … my dove, you are a breath of springtime air,” he said as he opened the door to his estate.
When we passed the estate staff they bowed their heads, and some of the female staff curtsied. I was unsure of what I should do.
“Should I bow?”
“No,” Ashton assured, “they are staff employed to serve the house of Archer. They bow to you.”
“But I’m no one of importance.”
“You are with me, therefore you will be treated as I am treated, my lady.”
I giggled, unable to hold back. “My lady?”
“Yes.”
Once Ashton reached what I assumed were bedrooms, he stopped. “Your sleeping quarters are across from mine,” he pointed. “If you require anything I shall be in my quarters.”
“Will you escort me to dinner?”
“Is that your wish, my lady?”
“If it is your wish.”
“My dove, what is your wish on the matter?”
“I wish you to escort me to dinner.”
“Then it shall be done,” Ashton said, kissed my lips softly then turned and crossed the hall.
I opened the door to my room and stood silently. The room was beyond anything I could have imagined. I placed my foot over the threshold. The door closed behind my with a click as it latched. This room was opulent, everything gilded in gold. The furniture looked like it belonged in a museum instead of in a room where people would actually sit or lie upon it. Beneath my feet was dark hardwood adorned with fabulous rugs, in muted color palettes. Overhead were high carved ceilings molded in gold, and intricate crystal chandeliers along with a mural of angels floated within a blue sky.
I walked over to three large windows and turned. On the far end of the room was a dressing area with several full-length mirrors, an antique settee along with a gorgeous silk screen adorned with cherry blossoms within the design. By the screen was a huge bouquet of snow white roses setting atop an intricately carved table. The top of the table had been inlayed with tortoise shell.
The bed was probably the largest bed I’d ever seen. All hand carved dark wood with tall ornate spindles attached to an overhead canopy. It was encased in deep cherry colored silk and lace so the bed could be shut off completely by sliding the material back from their swags.
On each bedside table were more bouquets of snow white roses. Across from the bed a large fireplace protruded from the wall. The mantel was ornate, carved in a scrolling pattern glinted gold. Placed in front of the hearth was a pink velvet covered Queen Anne loveseat, flanked by two armchairs with buttoned upholstery of deep cherry red.
I meandered into the bathroom. It was fitted with a large claw footed tub that sat in a windowed nook. Over the tub hung another spectacular chandelier. Off to the side, a separate glass encased steam shower stood. Fresh cut flowers were placed upon an oval table sending the smell of roses through that room as well. There was another fireplace in the corner of the bathroom with floors shining of white marble. On the vanity sat all of my toiletries along with my perfume and my make-up. But as I gazed around the room there seemed to be one crucial item missing. I continued my quest to find the toilet was in a room separate from the bath and shower.
I wondered about my luggage. I hadn’t seen any of my bags as I toured my room. I walked over to the armoire, and opened up the doors to find all of my clothing. They were hanging or placed into the drawers on the bottom of the finely carved cabinet. My shoes were placed into a silk lined drawer, as were my unmentionables. Everything was in its place and a place seemed to be made for everything I had.
There was a knock at my door that interrupted my exploration. I went to answer.
“Come in, Alec.” I took him by the hand, pulling him in with vigor. “Is your room anything like mine? I have never seen anything like this,” I said in a rush of words.
Alec laughed. “My room is very nice as well,” he said. “I take it you are having a good time, my beauty.”
“Yes. How could I not?”
“How was the ride?”
“It was great. I never rode until today.”
Alec lifted my wrist. “I see Lord Archer gave you a bauble. For your birthday?”
“Yes. It is way too much, but he was insistent I have it.” I twisted my wrist, allowing the horse charm to sparkle. “It’s so beautiful, isn’t it?”
“Yes, but it pales to your beauty.”
“I feel like I am in a dream. Like I went to sleep, and I haven’t woken up. I’ve never seen such things. I have never even imagined such things for me.”
“Lord Archer is smitten by you. I imagine there is nothing he would not give you.”
“I don’t want things from him, Alec, but it is nice to know they actually exist, and it might be possible for me.”
“Anything is possible for you, my beautiful Trinity.”
“Dinner is at six. I need to get ready.” I said.
“Wear the black dress Amelia picked out.”
“The black one?”
“Yes. You will be ravishing.”
“Aren’t you coming to dinner?”
“No. I have an errand to run for Jacqueline. Once I heard Gavin was not here I was much less worried for you.”
“If he had been here, what would you have done?”
“We would have gone back home to the chateau.”
“He’s a monster for what he did to Jacqueline. It’s hard to believe someone like Lord Archer could have such a brother.”
“Yes. But we need no
t worry about Gavin now. I will be back late so do not expect to see me until the morning, my sweetness.”
“Alec, you have always been so nice to me. Why?”
“You touch my heart,” Alec admitted. “One look at you and my heart sings.”
“Alec,” I said, shaking my head, and more than likely blushing.
“You have a good night. I will see you in the morning,” Alec said then he kissed my cheek.
Once Alec left, I took a shower. I thought about my afternoon excursion with Ashton. I felt something for Lord Archer, but I wouldn’t think about that. I’d think about the orgasms. They were fantastic.
I took my time with my make-up and hair, doing as Amelia instructed, to the letter. I pulled my hair up into a golden clip, fixing it like the first night Ashton saw me. I powered my body in a light dusting of glitter, and dabbed sweet and floral scented perfume behind my ears, between my breasts, on my wrists, a dab between my thighs, and added the final dab behind my knees.
I stood in front of the mirror as I slipped on the black dress, all the while watching as my body revealed itself. The front of the dress was cut to the navel. The back of the dress was cut in the same dipping shape. Without a bra my pert breasts pressed forward. I turned to the side and ran my hand down the curve of my hip. The material brushed against my flesh in an intimate way, so as I moved my nipples were made known. The gown flowed to the floor with the side slit to my upper thigh. I left my legs bare, placing the high heels on my feet. Beneath this black satin I was bare, wearing absolutely nothing.
I waited by the door anxious, impatient. Settle down, Trinity. I took in some calming breaths, but when I heard the knock I wanted to squeal in girlish delight. Trying to settle down, and be sophisticated, I waited until the count of ten, took one last calming breath then opened the door.
Ashton’s face illuminated. He took my hand. I twirled around for his complete satisfaction.
“Once again you have outdone yourself, my dove. You are so beautiful that it harms my eyes to gaze upon your beauty.”
My gaze roamed up his body. He stood tall in a perfect black suit. I wondered if my face gave away the fact I wanted to touch him.
“You are very handsome, Lord Archer.”
“Thank you. Shall we?” he asked. He always asked.
“Yes.”
We passed a line of staff. They all bowed. I heard, “My lady, my lord…” as we passed. I acknowledged them by nodding.
We walked into an elegant dining room. In the middle of the cavernous space sat a huge rounded table, but instead of a quiet dinner for two it was to be a dinner party. The table was complete with several people, all seated and dressed to the nines. They stood up when they saw Lord Archer. I wasn’t expecting a crowd. I clutched on to Lord Archer’s arm a little bit tighter.
Lord Archer bent down and whispered, “Do not be anxious, my dove.”
I could do this. I would do this. I had nothing to fear. I nodded.
“My friends,” Lord Archer said. He turned his attention to the guests. “Thank you for coming this evening. We are pleased you were able to attend.”
We?
Lord Archer turned. “This is my dove,” he announced, not using my name. “You may address her as my lady.”
I smiled then turned to Lord Archer. Following what little I knew of etiquette, I bowed my head with a slight curtsy. He bowed his head in return, picked up my hand and kissed it before leading me to the table. Lord Archer took a seat at what was considered the head of the table. I sat to his right. Once I sat, the guests followed by taking their seats.
“Lord Archer,” a tall slender blond man asked, “how was your last trip to the Middle East? Did you acquire any working studs to bring back to Briarwood stables?”
“Yes. I found two, Lord Archibald. One of which I have claimed for my own, Phantom Knight is his name, and another of extraordinary breeding that I must say shall improve the bloodline of my current lineage.”
“My lady,” said the sour faced woman setting next to Lord Archibald. I turned, unsure if she was speaking to me. “My lady,” the woman said again.
“Yes?” I said.
“I am Lady Archibald.”
“I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Lady Archibald.” Lady Archibald gave a generic smile in response.
I studied the face staring back at me. Lady Archibald was probably in her late thirties. She had thin lips, and sharp angled unappealing features. She looked beyond bored or maybe this was her usual demeanor, it was difficult to tell.
“I see you are wearing Cartier,” I commented. “It is a lovely brooch.”
Lady Archibald gave a snorting laugh. “A small trinket from Lord Archibald.” She fingered the diamond, emerald, and onyx encrusted panther.
“We understand you are visiting. Are you enjoying your stay in France?” Lord Archibald inquired of me.
I figured him to be at least forty, and thought he looked stuffy. Perhaps he’s suffering from a bad bought of gas and in need of relief. I wanted to chuckle, but felt that would be in bad manners, so I held back the urge.
“Yes. Thank you for asking, Lord Archibald. France is quite beautiful.”
“As are you if I may be so bold,” another man who sat across from me interjected.
This man was stick thin, as pale as milk, and had dark brown almost black eyes. His black hair was graying a bit around the edges, and he wore it slicked back with product. He was very unattractive. Yes, there was something about him that made my skin crawl.
“Thank you for the kind compliment,” I replied in a demure voice.
“Yes, Lord Ironington, thank you for the compliment,” Lord Archer said, clearly taking a possessive stand.
Lord Ironington peeled his gaze from me. He turned his attention back to Lord Archer with a bent form of a grin. He didn’t have the best orthodontia.
“Lord Archer,” he said in a haughty tone which breeched no denial, “I am quite enamored by this beauty across from me. Pray tell, wherever did you meet?”
Lord Archer simply said, “Through some mutual friends.”
“My lady. What an interesting ring you are wearing,” Lord Archibald’s wife said.
I gazed down at my ring. “Yes. It was a gift from a friend. It symbolizes Venus, the goddess of beauty and love.”
“How very interesting,” Lord Archibald’s wife said, only this time her voice was much more smug and disapproving.
“How very appropriate,” Lord Archer interjected. “You are truly a goddess, my lady.” He took my hand and boldly kissed the ring upon my finger.
Low murmurs buzzed around the table. I wondered why Lord Archer was doing this. It was clear I wasn’t considered worthy of his time by his guest, yet Lord Archer seemed unconcerned with their opinions, and quite willing to rub their snooty noses in his admiration for me.
“My lady, your accent sounds American,” Lord Ironington said. He was clearly digging.
“Yes.”
Lord Ironington’s dark stare bothered me. I felt violated by the way he looked at me. For a moment I wanted to squirm, but I held my posture. Lord Ironington held his carnivorous gaze upon my breasts.
“How interesting. What will your father think, my dear Lord Archer? A yank,” Lord Ironington smirked while twisting the end of his mustache.
“My dear Lord Ironington, you shall do well to keep your eyes upon other matters,” Ashton warned. Ironington quickly shifted his attention to Ashton.
Ironington bowed his head to Ashton. “Surely, you of all people must find it hard to keep your eyes from such finery. I daresay, especially when it is being displayed upon a beautiful delicate dove.”
Ashton returned to the original question at hand.
“As for your inquiry, Lord Ironington, my father is looking forward to meeting my dove,” Lord Archer said with a smile. It wasn’t a real smile, I was sure. “I am also quite assured his Grace will find her to be as beautiful and as charming as I find her to be.” He paused, t
urning his attentions back to my face. “And I am also sure he would expect, as do I, she be treated with the same respect my family is afforded.”
“Of course,” said Lord Archibald.
Another guest entered into the banter. “Lord Ironington?”
“Yes, Lord Chatterline?”
I figured Lord Chatterline to be somewhere around Ashton's age.
“I think we should focus on our dinner and our friends, thus leaving the speculations behind us,” Lord Chatterline suggested.
“I agree,” Lord Archibald interjected.
“Very well,” said Lord Ironington.
All of the noise and stress was getting to me. I balled up my fist under the table. From nowhere, Lord Archer’s hand overlapped my fist. I relaxed my hand and glanced up at him. He winked then patted my hand.
“Shall we eat?” Lord Archer announced.
“Yes. I believe we shall get on with the festivities,” Lord Ironington replied, obviously playing the good guy now.
“My lady,” Lord Archer said. He looked at me with piercing eyes. “Would you do the honors?” He handed me the bell.
I took it. “Of course, my lord,” I said then rang the bell.
Tingle-lingle-ling…
As dinner arrived, my mind was a swirl of thoughts. It was like I had walked into another time or a parallel universe. The only thing different was the clothing. The clothing was modern, but my surroundings, the social etiquette, and the pomp and circumstance were like that of another era. I’d never imagined such snobbery still existed, let alone imagined I would be smack dab in the middle of it. I wondered if there would be a beheading before the night was done.
The men talked of travel, politics, horses, wine, cigars, and the women spoke of mundane things such as the garden club, charity balls, and this year’s new fashions. I felt like a complete thumb.
“Shall we retire to the parlor for some Cognac and a cheroot,” Lord Chillington suggested.
I glanced down at my plate. I’d actually eaten very little. It surprised me dinner was over. I thought I had just sat down. I wondered what I missed within the conversations, and hoped no one had tried talking to me.
The Good Sister: Part One Page 18
