My Divinely Decadent Duke

by Sandra Masters

  He deposited his diamond ring on the bedside next to where she stood. “You should be able to replace your gown a few times with this.” Althorn wasn’t proud of himself and his actions this evening. He vowed he would never seek her again.

  His faithful coachman awaited and transported him home. The duke was in a foul mood when he slipped into his bed. He would be in need of his morning constitutional along the beach. The night did not dawn quickly and his restlessness fatigued him. He tossed and turned until sleep conquered him.

  Daylight beckoned and without haste, Althorn donned his breeches and a light shirt, called Clayo, and they walked along the jetties. After the usual game of ‘fetch and throw’, he sat at the end of the rocks, and talked to the animal as if she understood every word he spoke.

  The restlessness and discontent wrought havoc within him. This morning it was worse. Why? Because it was the wrong woman for the wrong reason? Because he wanted someone else more? Because he declared he didn’t love Cassandra? Yet why was he so jealous and possessive? He wished her a good hunt as a sarcastic parting remark. She had the right to get her life in order for her ward, while his life dissipated in front of him. Little satisfied him. He no longer enjoyed the seduction of women for the sake of the sex act. It wasn’t love making. He wanted desperately to make love with Cassandra and show her the kind of exploration that burns the soul and empowers the heart, but he turned her away afraid of what love could do.

  “Well, Clayo, do you have any suggestions?”

  The hound edged closer at the sound of her name, and rested her head on his thigh.

  “Come, it’s time to return home.” They padded the pink sand beach and came through the entrance. Clayo went to the kitchen in search of food and her babies. Althorn went to the drawing room in search of the all too elusive peace.

  His mother rejoined him after her rest and took to read her paper.

  Lady Madelaine motioned to him with her lorgnette, handed him the paper and pointed to a specific section.

  The duke sank in his chair, “Now what, Mother?”

  Tattler Tales: What notorious Duke of A and privileged Ambassador PF had words over a certain Lady CM in the gardens of the King’s Pavilion home last night? A duel almost ensued and it was noted the lady ran from the duke for his impropriety toward her. Her brother, the Earl M came to the rescue and brought common sense to the situation. More on this tomorrow…by the way, the black corset is sold out.”

  “Yes, it was I, Mother.” He searched for other words. “I misbehaved and upset Cassandra with my sharp tongue. Jealousy enraged me that she could even think to kiss that continental fop. If this is what my England has come to, it is a sorry state of affairs.”

  His mother’s eyes were an unusual blue, why had he not noticed before? Clearly he was self-centered.

  “I will have to take better care in Parliament and represent my people with honor. I believe my life is about to change—perhaps for the better.”

  The dowager reached for her parchment book and scribbled with a hand that trembled. Good, my son. It is time.

  “You know, Mother, it’s occurred to me I do miss your lectures. Please learn to speak again—for me?”

  His mother blew him a kiss, caressed his cheek, and nodded as she returned to her sitting room and her embroidery. It helped mobility with her fingers, and was highly recommended by her physician—and Cassandra.

  He sought the privacy and quiet of his library, reviewed the past day and night’s events. It would be necessary to apologize to Cassandra for his misbehavior the night before. Her brother informed him never to call again. Propriety indicated he would have to ask permission from the earl to speak to her. It was a hard pill to swallow, but he would do it. Pride had taken a fall…and it humbled him.

  Althorn penned a short note for delivery to the earl wherein he requested the opportunity to discuss an important matter with regard to his sister. The last sentence read, “It would be appreciated if you would hear me out. I await your reply.” He signed it with his ducal seal.

  Impatient to hear from Cassandra’s brother, he spent time with his mother who progressed well in most areas except speech.

  A servant knocked on his door and was told to enter. On the tray, was a note addressed to him. It simply read, Duke of Althorn, this afternoon at three o’clock, I will make myself available. Signed by the earl’s seal. He looked at his pocket watch and noted it was two thirty.

  Upon his arrival at the Castle Inn, an attendant took charge of the horse and carriage. He walked up the steps to the main lobby. A servant led him to a private study where Montgomery was seated.

  The duke stood in front of him and spoke in a clear somber tone. He sat and ignored the direct cut. “Do not rise. Thank you for this opportunity.”

  “You wished to speak to me?” questioned the earl.

  “I have come to speak to Cassandra about a number of important matters. The first is to apologize for my misconduct last night.”

  “This can be arranged. I expect appropriate conduct today. She’s in residence in the nursery with the children. And the other matters?” The earl’s voice was brisk and his demeanor stern.

  “I would like to propose marriage. The details are known to she and I.” The brows of the man in front of him elevated upward.

  “After last night, why?” he asked. “I find it hard to believe you would need her dowry.”

  “True, I do not require one. She may do as she pleases—perhaps extend it to her ward? I find your sister and I are well suited. My mother is fond of her, as am I.”

  The silence in the room spoke volumes between the two men.

  “Fond is a rather vague sentiment, I would say.” Brent’s hand played with the desk pad as he arranged and rearranged the leather cover. “Althorn, does love enter into the equation?”

  “Love has to start somewhere, Montgomery. Many a marriage has started as an agreement, an offer or a marriage of convenience or inconvenience. As men we are aware of this.”

  “Another suitor has requested her hand, also.”

  “Is it from Sir Fairbanks?” His insides churned.

  “No.”

  It was the duke’s turn to raise his brows in surprise. “I see. Has she accepted the suitor?”

  “I believe Cassandra indicated she would take it under consideration. If you waited any longer, it might be too late, sir.” Her brother nodded with a sly grin.

  The duke gave a brief smile. “May I see her now?” he asked with impatience. “Who is the other suitor?”

  “Marquess of Ashcombe, cousin to the King.”

  “He’s a decent chap, but much older than she,” Althorn replied and found he meant it. “Will you take me to her, and may she and I speak in private?”

  Her brother stood, walked around the desk, and opened the door. “Follow me.” Again, his voice showed no emotion at all. Was it a good sign or an omen?

  They ascended the steps to their private quarters in silence and went to the nursery. Montgomery’s wife was nowhere to be seen. Giggles and laughter came from the nursery along with one melodious voice who sang nursery rhymes. The earl knocked before he entered. “Cassandra, you have a visitor who wishes to speak to you in private.”

  She whirled around, and when she saw the duke, her face blanched. She turned to her brother in question.

  “I have given him permission. Please use the small drawing room. I will be nearby should you need me. Althorn has assured me his conduct will be exemplary.”

  She breathed a long sigh. “Excuse me, children. I will return shortly.”

  Alicia ran to the duke. “How is Clayo?” Her face was animated as the precocious child smiled at him.

  “How are you to address the duke?” Cassandra reprimanded.

  Alicia’s hands went to her mouth and her face appeared to plead forgiveness. “Your Grace.” She curtsied.

  He smiled at the youngster. “My little lady, you will see all of them soon. It’s up to Auntie Cassandra.
”

  “Your Grace, what about me? Will I be the second to know?” asked the winsome four-year old Alfie.

  “You have my word on it. We men have to stand in arms together.” He winked to them and followed Cassandra to the private room.

  She walked in veritable silence and closed the door. “To what do I owe the honor of your presence, your Grace?” She motioned for him to sit. He chose the chair nearest the settee, where she seated herself.

  “Cassandra, I…”

  “I’d prefer you call me Lady Montgomery.” Her voice was void of emotion. So not like her.

  “Yes, I know. Kindly let me finish before you interrupt again.” If the tiny smile that crossed her mouth was any indication, he knew she would make this difficult for him.

  “I wish to apologize for my behavior last night. At best, it was in poor taste. I regret my words. I mean this with sincerity if you would be kind enough to accept it.” He kept his tone soft and genuine.

  “I accept, Sir.” She arose to leave. “The children await me.”

  “Kindly sit, Cassandra. There’s more.”

  Now, he stood and paced back and forth “I understand a lot more than I did a few days ago about your affection for your ward, and your fear of your sister-in-law’s threats to you and the child.” He stopped, and crouched low in front of her.

  Chapter Fifteen

  It was his thighs, the size of large ham hocks, that stretched masterful muscles—no—strained the fabric of his breeches. He arose to sit beside her.

  Heaven help me.

  A frown crossed the duke’s face. He turned to Cassandra. “There are times I can be a harsh man without intention. Often, it is misunderstood.”

  “I doubt that,” she said. “You are exactly who you want to be.”

  “There is a kind side to me, also.”

  “I am aware of those few moments when you are with Clayo, or the children, or on the beach. It’s then when you are most lov…” She hesitated at the word almost spoken, then said, “endearing.”

  “Thank you.” He smiled to her. “Endearing it shall be.”

  “As you know, my mother is more than fond of you. She constantly writes notes about you, things you said to her, your walks, your talks. At times, I see a pile of notes on my desk and it endears you to me because of your many kindnesses to her. The doctor assures me she progresses well, but has a way to go to recover her speech. I am of the opinion that if you are her caretaker, she will rehabilitate so much quicker.”

  Silence. More silence. Dead silence.

  She sat firm and tall in the chair. Her hands were clasped in her lap, but she waited for a true explanation.

  “I’m not doing too well, am I, Cassandra? In short, will you marry me?” He fell on one knee and looked up to her with a smile that would light the universe. “I don’t want to commit anything to paper. It’s abhorrent to me. Not what a marriage should be. We could be married in one week, if you agree.”

  She couldn’t speak. What had come over the man?

  After a second of silence, he added, “Of course, Alicia may come with you to our home. Alfie, too, if you so desire. I’m sure Felicity will be glad to have him away. I agree with you, she isn’t a good-hearted person. I will apply for guardianship for your ward.

  She kept her gaze void of visible emotion.

  He arose. “Is there a question you wish to discuss before you give me your answer?”

  “Yes, I have committed to memory all your utterances, your Grace, but I believe the last time you indicated to me if ever you could love anyone, it would be someone with my qualities. You said you could never live a contrived marriage, and the missing component in the arrangement was love and passion. If memory serves me, you were adamant it would make us both miserable. What has changed your mind? I demand to know.”

  “You have an excellent recall, Cassandra. I commend you,” he said.

  “I seek not your favor, just answers.” She arose and went to the Palladian window to look at the ocean in low tide.

  “The art of compromise, my lady. You have a need for security, and I have a need for compassionate care for my mother.” He went to her by the window where a squall had formed in the distance.

  Her heart was in high tide with thunderous waves that pounced and withdrew with a heavy undercurrent. One could drown with ease.

  “I could hire other caregivers, but it’s my belief that with you she’ll recover.”

  “You agree if the arrangement isn’t suitable to us both, you will provide me with a cottage and a small stipend? No legal separations, no divorce, no scandal?”

  “I agree,” he answered. His voice displayed no emotion.

  “Why does the cottage have to be on your estate? Could I not be placed somewhere farther removed?”

  “It is for your safety, Cassandra. Everyone has enemies. I wouldn’t want to see you endangered in any way. Of all things, I am not a monster. My lands are well guarded. You will have every accommodation you need, but I do hope you won’t require a cottage.”

  “What about love and passion?” she wondered until she realized she spoke the words aloud. Enough. Everything but the one thing I want. And you think you are not cruel, Gordon?

  “They shall take care of themselves with time. I will not force myself on you…unless you wish it of me. I would like the opportunity to demonstrate to you I am a good man you may wish to know better, Cassandra. Goodness knows you’ve seen many sides of me.”

  Somehow the arrangement didn’t sound as insane as before. It could work. At least she wouldn’t have to marry Ashcombe, a perfect stranger. Her choices were an older gentleman, or the younger scandalous rake she loved.

  Her mind spun.

  Her world twirled.

  She swayed.

  He held her steady in his arms.

  Her heart broke.

  And then he did a terrible thing.

  He kissed her with tender gentleness and coaxed open her lips. Their mouths melded together. Her body molded to his and it was perfect. She heard heart beats, pulse beats, thunderous beats. To be so close to him, so near, so in need—it was so unfair. She rested her head on his broad chest and made her decision.

  “You are an innocent and a temptation I cannot afford, but I want you,” he murmured.

  Was it better to be miserable with him than without him?

  Chapter Sixteen

  When God wants to punish you, he grants you your dreams. “Yes,” Cassandra said. “I agree to marry you.”

  The duke and Lady Cassandra withdrew from the small drawing room to speak to her brother. “No time like the present to show our solidarity, Cassandra. Shall we hold hands while we talk to your brother—for propriety’s sake and as a demonstration of our commitment?”

  She stopped and faced him. “Since when did you care about propriety?”

  “I didn’t think I cared, but now I know I do. In a small way, we do this for the children, but mostly it is for us. We will tell them also. How surprised they’ll be. I see you don’t like my humor.”

  “I’ve never been one for humor. Alfie and Alicia will claim Clayo as their own. You wait and see.”

  “No. Clayo is mine,” he said. “She loves only me.”

  “You may know about women, Althorn, but I wonder if you know about female dogs and children. We will be lucky to play with the puppies. They will spoil Clayo and her brood. Will we be able to keep them all?” she asked with such sincerity he wanted to kiss her again. The sensation teased. Not a diversion, but something he liked—and knew he would like to do again—and again?

  She would be easy to love. Long walks. Dangerous talks. Seductive kisses. No, it would be a cardinal sin for him. Rakes do not fall in love—unless they are reformed. The thought intrigued. No, he wasn’t prepared for redemption—yet.

  “You will learn, Cassandra, marriage to me has its benefits. Such as, we can keep all the puppies we want and Clayo, too. You haven’t met the sire. He has an exceptional pedigree.”<
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  “I’ve never seen him on the property. Certainly would like to see the fellow.”

  Althorn found he loved the glow on her blushed cheeks. She had no false airs. What a change it would be. Hand in hand, they knocked on the nursery door and found the earl with the governess. The children were busy in a corner and played a game. The brother looked to his sister.

  “Montgomery, you’ve just acquired a brother-in-law. We have come to seek your blessing.”

  “Cassandra, is this what you want?” he asked in concern.

  “Yes, Brent. I am quite aware of my situation. I am happy to ask you to bless this union. I hope you will give me away to this rogue.” She smiled jovially at her now-fiancé, a little pang to her heart. Sweet heaven, was it happening?

  She addressed the duke. “Do we know any details?”

  “Our wedding will take place in the family chapel. I envision a small intimate ceremony with only family present. And of course, the children, who will be our flower girl and ring bearer, and reminds me there is much to do.” He grinned. “Will this be acceptable to you?”

  She nodded.

  “I have to acquire a parish waiver of the banns of marriage, so Montgomery, be quick and give us your blessing. We also want to tell the children.” The duke found he liked the acquisition of his new family, something he missed having lost his close family. It lent a good excitement. And of course, he would whisk Cassandra away to tell his mother.

  Perhaps not all the details of the arrangement, but the dowager would be happy to have Cassandra attend her. Isn’t this the primary reason I do this? Liar.

  “In that case, I give my blessings to you both for a long and happy marriage,” Brent said.

  The duke sensed a regret or remorse in his tone. Could it be Montgomery’s marriage was in danger? He said, “Please know we would welcome Alfie to our home at all times. The puppies are still young, and the children love them so.”

  “That’s kind of you, Althorn. Alfie will be lost without Cassandra and Alicia. I welcome the opportunity for him to spend time in a wholesome atmosphere. He is more than precious to me.” The earl went to his sister. “I want you to be happy. If this is what you want, I am there for you. Always remember that.” He kissed her forehead. He then addressed the duke. “If you hurt her in any way, you and I will come to terms, and it will not be pleasant, duke or not.”