My Divinely Decadent Duke

by Sandra Masters

  She gave him a startled glance and spoke innocently, “I cannot believe you expected me to meet you, without a chaperone after our encounter on the balcony.” Her cheeks grew hot, and she burned down to her fingertips. Such scandalous thoughts. How dare he conjure such an inappropriate wondrous meeting?

  “Will you kindly refrain from the salutation Your Grace. Once again, my Christian name is Gordon. Again, call me as such when we are in private situations. Otherwise, I am Althorn.” He smiled a grin so broad it dimpled his cheeks.

  “Gordon. Gordon. Gordon.” She repeated the name thrice. “Kindly notice we are not alone.” What kind of private situations had he in mind?

  The duke slipped to his knees and helped the children with the sand castle. “We endeavor the construction of a large monument so we must work quickly. Hurry, help me.”

  She liked the way his shirt rippled in the breeze. He removed his boots and stockings, gathered the water pails, and sloshed barefoot in the water, and it lent him a boyish air.

  Perhaps it was that precise moment, she realized she’d fallen in love with him. Cassandra had a premonition no good could come of it.

  The castle was a mighty structure by the time they were through with turrets and parapets. Small seashells lined the moat. With his long fingers, the duke tunneled through the main part of the fortress as the seawater unleashed and flowed through. Then all four of them built a wall surround to keep the waves away.

  As with most things crafted from sand, the tide eventually came in and washed it away. The children were disappointed and Alfie shed a tear. “Don’t worry, Alfie,” Alicia said. We’ll just build another one farther away.”

  The duke couldn’t remember when he had a better time. He couldn’t explain the joy he experienced in this playful atmosphere. Deep within, he knew bottomless peace and satisfaction—an overly welcome sensation of tranquility.

  “Althorn, you seemed to have quite an active conversation with a number of ladies last night. I saw you leave with a woman who draped herself over you like a fur cape.”

  “Unfortunately, Cassandra, while I normally might have found distraction with such warmth, you have spoiled me for any other woman. I truly like you. It’s an unusual circumstance.”

  “I like you, too, Althorn.”

  A half-smile crossed his face. “Well, you might show it a bit.”

  “Please be appropriate. The children are present and can hear everything, even through brick walls.”

  My how he loved this game with her and her propriety, yet he knew full well, she was curious and an innocent. Indeed, she was different from the other women with whom he had sex—unadulterated sex. No commitments were necessary. Just the need to pleasure and be pleasured in return. He contemplated the change she encouraged in him. He desired her to trust him and wanted to be a better man because of her. Dammit. It had to be witchcraft. Rakes didn’t believe in love.

  “Althorn, it’s time for the children to eat. We must return before Miss Dutton thinks some ill has befallen us.”

  “Cassandra, what could possibly happen?” he asked in jovial banter. Immediately he sensed something foreboding in her tone.

  She turned to the children. “Let’s gather the telescope. Alicia, will you carry the stool? Alfie, you bring the sand pails and off we go back to the hotel.”

  After he donned his footwear, the duke took the telescope. The children ran on ahead with Clayo close behind. Cassandra and the duke laughed and chatted amiably alongside each other.

  “What’s on our calendar for tonight?” he asked playfully. “Are we to dance or attend a soirée?” He wasn’t sure of his plans, but he knew he wanted to be with her once more. She had a sensible mind, good intellect, spoke three languages fluently—Spanish, French, and of course, English. He admired her common sense approach to life.

  And he wanted her.

  Yet, his instinct told him there was some mystery associated in her life. Whether it had to do with Alicia or someone else, he didn’t know. He was intrigued by the woman and her reaction to his advances. She was innocent in her own way, and he much needed mystery in his tiresome life—a strange combination. Quite the romantic, he was sure she would surrender easily to the right lover. It bothered him he might not be that lover. Everything about her was an adventure. He enjoyed how she flirted with temptation. Did it send a thrill through her body? He could indeed become the right man for Cassandra, but something in her, the absolute virtuous maiden with all her virginal misgivings restrained him. He wasn’t that kind of scoundrel.

  Ah, what nobility, he pondered of himself. Was she an experienced tease? Or was she just a sweet innocent? He opted for the latter. He truly enjoyed her friendship, but he needed heartier fare when it came to bed sport. Was it possible she was still a virgin? The thought piqued his interest.

  When he thought of the word surrender, he thought of her in his arms passionately in search of fulfillment, his kisses raining over her body, everywhere untouched by sunlight. It made him wish for more and more of her company. Yet, while she appeared agreeable and open to him, there was something withdrawn about her. He couldn’t help but think how much she and the little girl looked alike. There was more to this than he was told, and he was determined to find out what it was, but for the moment he enjoyed himself.

  “I am not sure of our plans. I believe we are to attend the races later.” She offered a shy smile.

  They were within sight of the hotel veranda and he paused to say, “I must leave you, Cassandra. The effort to build sand castles can make one untidy. I will watch as you enter the veranda to assure you and the children are safe.”

  She moved swiftly up the steps with the children. If she turned and smiled, it would be a good sign.

  His gaze never left her body as Cassandra provocatively climbed the steps; her motion caused him to take a deep breath. Almost to the door, she paused and waved, gave him a long glance, and then went through with the children in tow.

  He smiled knowingly and proceeded to his own villa. While he wanted her like a hellion, he couldn’t allow himself to take full advantage of such an innocent, or so he told himself. He wasn’t that rotten. Underneath his profligate exterior dwelt a good heart.

  “Come, Clayo. I do believe you enjoyed yourself as much as I did.”

  He whistled a bawdy seafarer tune he learned in Barbados. Attenzione al richiamo di una bella donna. Beware the lure of a beautiful woman. His laughter echoed over the sound of the waves.

  Chapter Seven

  The duke walked along the shoreline. The waves pounded the sand and coughed up remnants of seaweed and driftwood. Althorn found himself at the beach entrance to his villa. Clayo scampered through the portico in search of the kitchen where her puppies were settled into a large wooden box. Yelps and anxious mouths greeted her. The kitchen staff curtsied to their master as he walked through.

  “Where is the dowager?” he asked one of the servants.

  “With the caretaker in the sitting room, your Grace.”

  He nodded and headed to check on her. When he opened the door, he saw his mother sleeping in her chair wrapped in a warm quilt. The caretaker followed him out the room.

  “Has she eaten well today?”

  “Yes, your Grace. She nodded off after lunch and seemed so comfortable, I was hesitant to disturb her. She should awake soon, would you like me to advise you when she does?”

  “No, I will find both of you later.”

  He turned and headed toward the staircase and ascended to his chambers.

  ****

  Althorn arrived promptly at the duchess’s beach house in the afternoon, offered his card to the butler, who took his accessories. This was informal negating the necessity for him to wear his top hat. The servant ushered him into the drawing room and he was pleased with its charm and comfort. His own villa was plush and formidable. There was a good view of the beach where the children played under the watchful guidance of two governesses.

  The Duchess entere
d the room, her delicate scent accompanying him. He extended a warm smile.

  She motioned for him to sit. “Althorn, I’m glad to see you.”

  He looked beyond her, but didn’t see Cassandra. Was he in for a lecture too? Dammit.

  “Duchess, I’m delighted to see you and to have you to read my horoscope. I do believe I need a change in predictions and who better than you?”

  “Flatterer, but I shall accept it anyway.” She added, “Cassandra will be down shortly. The children are on the beach and we adults can be alone with our stars. That doesn’t happen too often around here.” Her tone was light and humorous.

  “This beach house has charm, and a warm comfortable atmosphere.”

  “I believe what you mean to say is it’s not pretentious and is comfy, as you say, but when there are children all about who love the beach, it is suitable. Ravensmere is my favorite place in the world, and there we have all the affectation and antiquity we need. Therefore, my duke and I opted for something smaller where the children could enjoy themselves. Fourteen rooms and a ballroom suite is more than enough for a beach house.”

  He smiled. “How many rooms are there at Ravensmere?” Not really sure he wanted to know, but curious nonetheless.

  “Forty-eight rooms and 17,000 acres.” The sound of footsteps caused her to turn. “Ah, Cassandra, come in and join us.”

  When she entered, it was as if the room radiated. Dressed in a deep topaz muslin dress with a sheer top and longer sleeves, she took his breath away. Her hair was pulled into her bow at the nape of her neck. She curtsied, as he arose.

  He nodded and greeted her. “Cassandra, I see you yet again. Thank you for your help. I do look forward to my horoscope.” He kept his voice smooth as aged honey.

  “Your Grace, how nice to see you, too. My cousin and I have been in conversation about you.” She sat across from him, and curtailed a grin at his obvious discomfort.

  Prickly, he asked the duchess. “Is there a lecture in my horoscope?”

  “Heavens, no. I believe I made myself clear last evening. We will read your stars. May I offer refreshment? Lemonade? Cognac? I am sorry, but my husband couldn’t be here. Something to do with a special session in Parliament. Corn laws, I think.”

  He bristled. If that was so, why was he not summoned? What would it take to be a respected Member of Parliament? Unfortunately, he knew the answer. It would take appearances at meetings and a serious demeanor on his part. He was here about to listen to his horoscope when in reality he should be in Parliament. How would this affect his estate? What and who would it take to get him to accept his duties? At one time he did so. He admitted he was here in this place at this time because of Cassandra. Now his jaded heart took over.

  Duchess Samantha seated herself at a table and reached for her astrology books. “I believe you are Taurus, Althorn?”

  He nodded.

  “What a masterful sign. You are governed by Venus, and she, the goddess of love, governs artistry and the heart’s desire.” She presented him with a bright smile. “You do fit your sign.”

  “Duchess, I might ask you to explain that vague statement except that it would make Cassandra blush. Therefore, I admit I am a man of the world who enjoys all it has to offer.” Her words bothered him.

  She explained that he was an aficionado of the arts and music as well as good foods and wine. “I see you embrace the affluent lifestyle and you show great skill and common sense. You are also humorous and determined, as well as cautious. Caution is an unusual term for you. You seem to defy it.” She further explained his sign didn’t dress in sartorial splendor, so she doubted it was true in his regard.

  “Ah, I see that Taureans can be affected by a companion’s opinion. In love, your sign is demonstrative and possessive.” She held his expression. “You may ask questions, Althorn.”

  “I have none yet to ask,” he stated. “I affirm most of what you’ve said so far.”

  “You are a good friend, but a bad enemy. You are in the second house, so beware of your wealth and security. Your gemstone is the emerald, with jade and agate as alternate choices. Your colors are the pastels of pink and blue. Somehow, I do not think those colors suit you.” She went on to tell him he disliked bossy individuals, debates, and arguments. He could not be harried and resisted change. And then a frown crossed her face. “I see danger. No details, but a word of admonition. Beware of friends in sheep’s clothing.”

  With a bit of bravado, he said, “I don’t fear danger. It could be my middle name. However, I have issue with the statement that I resist change. Sometimes I embrace it, but I do not like change for change’s sake. There was an instance when my family’s fortune was threatened. It was before I became duke. It involved our sugar plantations and factories in Barbados. I was sent by my father to repair the situation. I contracted the island disease. I’m told I was close to death. We returned to England to find that my father and older brother were both dead. I then became the 8th duke.”

  Both ladies gasped. “Such a sorrow must have left you with scars beyond the physical. It must have been difficult for you.” There was sadness in her tone.

  “Yes,” was his reply. What he didn’t say was he held remorse because he survived, this burden was still too hard to reveal to anyone else.

  “We are almost done, Althorn.” She smiled at him. “Please remember the stars are always right, but it is the interpretation that can differ, and I am only a student at this.”

  “Beautiful duchess, I do not believe those words at all. I think you are well versed on this subject.”

  “Thank you, I’m sure you meant the remark as a compliment. Compatible signs are Virgo and Aries. The virgin and the ram.” She let the words sink in. “At best, you’re proficient and practical. At worst, you are proprietary and materialistic.”

  “Well, I do admit I am governed by Venus and all things seductive…it’s not a crime.”

  “Indeed no.” She was effusive. “Althorn, this is for joint amusement.”

  “I do understand, but have you read Cassandra’s stars?”

  “Yes, Virgo, the virgin is governed by Mercury, who controls communication and intelligence. Mercury was the messenger of the gods.

  “Conservative, sexuality is not primary. A true friend. Dislikes deceitfulness. Loves pets, plants, good books. Knows many languages. Usually a good conversationalist. Sometimes solitary, frugal and very practical. Cassandra, does that sound like you?”

  “So far, I can relate, but please continue, cousin.”

  Samantha went on to say a compatible partner would be Taurus or Aries. Her strong points were dependability, sincerity, and eloquence. Her worst points were prudishness, self-doubt, and fussiness. “Your gemstone is agate. You are in the sixth house and should beware of service and work. Your colors are jade green and cerulean blue.”

  They clapped hands after she was finished and indicated the enjoyment and amusement they shared.

  The duke asked, “Does it infer Cassandra and I could be acceptable partners?” What would the answer be?

  “Why, yes, it does, your Grace, but please remember, again, it’s all in the interpretation. I find it of interest the bull and the virgin are compatible, do you not?” The duchess’ intent became crystal clear.

  “As do I,” he commented. There was a lull in the conversation, but then he asked if he could meet the children. The duchess accommodated him.

  “They are on the beach and we can walk out to them, if you like. Please follow me.” They found the governesses busy at work. “The twins are quite a handful, Althorn. Our lives have been dramatically changed, but my husband and I try hard to find moments where we can be alone. I hope that doesn’t shock you.”

  “I think it is a capital idea. Children and puppies can get under foot. Some women forget about their husbands the minute the children are born. I rejoice this is not the case with you and your family.”

  He was warm, cordial, and almost juvenile with the children. Althorn lob
bed the beach ball in obvious enjoyment. He was much of a boy himself. When one of the balls was thrown over his head, he stretched upward and caught it. “You don’t play fair,” he laughed at the dark haired boy. Straightening his jacket, he returned the ball to the children. “I must go. I will come back another time.” So this is what it’d be like if these were my children. A strange longing overwhelmed him. Could this be the new life he wanted?

  The children waved and returned to their games. They walked back to the house. “Ladies, I’ve enjoyed our astrological aspects and I will think long and hard on this. I do agree with the body of it, but there are certain areas I question. I hope I may have the opportunity to discuss this again.”

  “I shall say my farewell since I should return to the children.” The duchess turned to her cousin. “Cassandra, will you see Althorn out?” Perhaps it was a discreet way to give them a moment or two together, but there was also a narrowed eyebrow to Cassandra as the duchess withdrew.

  “Your cousin is good at this, I can see. She is protective of you. Did you enjoy the interpretations?” he asked, wary and concerned that it seemed so apropos.

  “Indeed she is, Althorn. Yes, I enjoyed both of ours.”

  “What about the lecture?” he asked with a rakish smile.

  “It wasn’t pleasant at all. Be gone, you rascal.” Her smile was dimpled. “You are a scoundrel and enjoyed your stellar performance today. Charm poured out of every aperture of your body.”

  All he could think to say was, “Cassandra, what am I to do with you?”

  “You could put me in a pumpkin shell and keep me very well.” She laughed at the nursery rhyme.

  “I don’t want you in a pumpkin shell, Cassandra. I want you in my bed.”

  “Oh, my.” Her hand flew to her lips to seal them. She walked with him to the door.

  He turned to her and whispered, “I’ve never meant it more. There is something intense between us. I will make you mine.” He half turned, rubbed his hand to her cheek. “Sooner than you think. I offer you everything a penny novel could provide and much more.” He kissed her forehead. “I’d like you to do something for me, sweet thing.”