Twinges of unnatural remorse and tenderness pulled at his toughened conscience. He stared at what he considered to be the most beautiful, desirable, refined woman he had ever met. He raged at the fate which was denying him sole and complete possession of her. Unreasonable fury at her past rejection of him returned as he realized she had unknowingly denied him his last chance to have a woman in a sexual way. He had wanted her more than he had ever wanted any other female. Now, she was totally out of his physical reach forever. He cursed her and the Indians.
Yet, for the briefest of instants he was tempted to seek a complacent, compromising arrangement with her. But just as he reached out to run his finger across her inviting lips, she uttered the most fateful and disastrous words possible.
A single teardrop slid down her cheek as she sadly murmured, “Kokipa sni… waste cedake… waste cedake…”
His body grew rigid and enraged as the words of Sioux slipped from her sleeping body. He maliciously wondered where her mind was headed. He did not have to wait long, for she spoke the name which sealed her doom: “Wanmdi Hota…”
Unable to translate her previous words, he definitely recognized the name of his most feared and hated enemy. His heart became a lump of ice and stone. He vowed to serve her Gray Eagle’s scalp upon a silver tray before heading back to Virginia. She would not have another man in her mind with which to compare him, especially not that particular man!
He hurriedly left her room. Still, Alisha did not awaken from her deep slumber or dreams of her lost love. He glanced back only once. His blue eyes flamed with bitterness and hostility. “You are as good as dead, my savage foe. She is mine alone now. Mine alone…”
Chapter Sixteen
When Alisha stirred and sat up that next morning, she was surprised to learn it was past mid-day. She had slept deeply and soundly. She answered the light tapping at her door to find Mrs. Webster holding a tray with hot tea and muffins. She smiled and moved aside to allow her entry.
“This wasn’t necessary, Mrs. Webster. But it is very kind of you. I didn’t mean to sleep so late. Has Jeffery already eaten?” she inquired, feeling that was the proper question for a new bride.
“Course, Ma’am. He left for town early this morning. Said he had some ‘portant business to care for. Said he’d be back at dinner time,” she stated in a friendly tone.
She placed the tray on a low table which was positioned before the French blue sofa. Alisha sat down to devour this fragrant temptation as the middle-aged woman began to busy herself with straightening her room. If Mrs. Webster noticed that she and her husband had not shared a bed last night, she did not let on…
As Alisha savored her warm, sunny bedroom, her husband was attending to business. First, he ordered a new wardrobe for his bride. Then, he headed to the Horne House, for a meeting with Henri.
At the inn, Jeffery was disappointed at not seeing Mary. He was curious about her reaction to her gift and to her mental lapse. Not wanting to create any suspicion, he did not ask about her. Later, he would order some lunch sent up to Henri’s room to lure her upstairs. He was positive Frenchy would enjoy the recounts of her little adventures with his magic drugs. Hearing about such wanton abandonment and great skill might encourage Henri to arrange her mysterious disappearance. For certain, he was past ready to be rid of the little wench!
Frenchy eagerly listened to Jeffery’s accounts of Mary’s abilities. He pondered this news very carefully. “You’re right, mon ami. She would make a most valuable investment. The only thing better than a hot, provocative body is a silent tongue! There’s a ship docking in New Orleans in late June. There will be a man on board who will pay highly for such a rare combination of talents. I will come for her the first of June. Until such time, keep your brutes away from her. She will be of little use to me if she becomes pregnant or is injured. In return, I will not charge you for the supplies for your wedding.”
They exchanged pleased, amicable smiles. “Now, on to this other problem…” Jeffery hesitantly began, wondering how to broach his demand without giving away too many secrets. A man such as Henri could be trusted and admired only so far.
At his halt, Henri chuckled and joked, “What problem could a new groom have when he has just wed the most beautiful and ravishing creature alive? If she is too much for the dashing lieutenant, I will gladly take her off your hands… free of charge. She is like a breath of spring air, a taste of aged brandy. Such charm and wit! Such beauty and breeding! You are a very lucky man, mon ami. She is magnifique!” he vowed, dramatically kissing the tips of his bunched fingers.
“Alisha isn’t the problem,” he quickly informed this hot-blooded Frenchman who was clearly so taken with her. Jeffery had never seen his eyes light up with such overwhelming emotion before. There was a different kind of desire written in his dark eyes where Alisha was concerned. It amused Jeffery to observe a genuine concern and affection for his woman in the eyes of another man, especially an experienced and particular man like Henri.
“That deal we have for buying scalps and jewelry is very lucrative and enjoyable for both of us. Hardly a week passes now I don’t get at least a few. I upped the bounty for souvenirs of chiefs and their sons since theirs is the best quality. I also added one to cover female scalps. Those fools back East won’t know a woman’s hair from a man’s, especially Injun hair! I’ve come across some mighty fancy jewelry that way, some of it pretty valuable.”
“Sounds fine to me,” Henri agreed with his actions. “It matters not to me if they kill every one of those red savages, male or female! Just for variety, I tried several of them in one of my houses near New Orleans. Stupid, unreasonable, quarrelsome lot! Finally had to slit their miserable throats and cast them into the river. Good riddance, too! So, what’s this new problem?”
Jeffery’s eyes glowed with satanic pleasure. “There is this one Indian in particular I want to set a higher bounty for, a prize which will entice countless trappers and even enemy warriors to seek his scalp for me. I was thinking of sending out the word for five thousand dollars in gold.” Jeffery casually dropped his startling news.
Henri’s eyes enlarged, and he gasped in vivid shock. “Mon ami! Surely you jest! Such an amount for a mere savage’s hair and necklace?” he questioned Jeffery’s absurd announcement.
Jeffery chuckled wickedly. “Not just any Indian, Henri. Besides, it will be a farce. We will simply state that large amount to interest any takers who have the courage or recklessness to search him out. Once he brings us this scalp and wanapin, I will get rid of him myself,” he arrogantly asserted.
“Who is this warrior who demands such attention from my good friend? This is a personal matter, no?” Henri’s eyes twinkled with growing excitement, for he relished brutal revenge.
Knowing of Henri’s affection and admiration for his new wife, he gave an explanation which he new Henri would accept. “There are two reasons. First, he is the one who massacred Fort Pierre and nearly cost me my life. No one has dared to seek his life for the meager rewards we have offered for the items of chief’s sons. This warrior is without fear; he is powerful, cunning, and daring. Both the whites and the Indians fear him! His scalp and wanapin will hang in my study in Williamsburg!”
“You speak of Gray Eagle, do you not? You are correct in your assumptions; who would dare to strike him dead? Would a larger bounty increase the courage of his enemies?” Henri asked skeptically, well aware of the glorious infamy of Gray Eagle.
“For five thousand dollars in gold, men would slay their own mothers and sell their own scalps! If he is attacked from many sides at the same time, he will soon fall victim to some man. I would stake my life upon the success of this deal! I will have his life before I leave here,” Jeffery claimed with firmness.
“There is more to this hatred than your past rivalry with him, no?” Henri was detecting potent emotions from his business partner. He contemplated on what that warrior had done to Jeffery to cause such fierce animosity and obsession.
&nbs
p; “Tell no one this secret, Henri. I must have your word of honor,” Jeffery demanded, knowing Henri did possess a certain code of honor when he gave his solemn word.
“Mon ami, there is no need for such demands between friends,” Henri gently rebuked him. “Yet, you have my sworn word of silence.”
“You are right, Henri; there is more than rivalry here. He captured and tortured Alisha, among other things which I need not spell out to you. The man who posed as her brother was only a half-breed scout who befriended her and helped her to escape the Sioux camp. I had him slain because he was going to force her to marry him as payment for his rescue. For what Gray Eagle has done to both of us, I will see him dead before I leave this area!”
“Sacre bleu!” Henri angrily exploded. “He has dared to defile such innocence and beauty! He is but an animal. I shall personally send out the messages of this new offer. Within a few months, we shall have this fiendish devil! Now I understand the sadness and fear in her. You must be gentle and patient with her, mon ami; such tragedies are difficult to forget.”
Desiring Henri’s continued assistance and sympathy, he noted sadly, “To this day she cries in her sleep. She awakens and pleads for mercy from some unseen demon who still haunts her dreams. He must pay for this cruel outrage, this dishonor to her and to me! Send out the word of his bounty this very day. Soon, he will tire of running and hiding; soon, some foe will slay him. I do not wish Alisha to know you have learned her humiliating past.”
“You have my word. It will remain between us. I promise you the hair of the man who has done this detestable thing.”
With that agreement, they shifted their talk to other business. Later they had a pleasant lunch as Henri was given the opportunity to study Mary. It was very late before the two men separated. Henri headed downstairs to eat dinner, while Jeffery headed home to his new bride.
Pleased with his successful double-dealing with Henri and with his other tasks, he arrived home in a merry mood. He entered to find his wife sitting in the drawing room with a book of poetry in her hand. She glanced up as he strutted into the cozy room. She timidly smiled at him, wary of her position in his home. She was greatly relieved when he smiled back.
“Would you care for a glass of sherry before dinner, my bonny,bride? This has been a busy and fruitful day for me,” he nonchalantly remarked, not elaborating.
“Yes, thank you,” she demurely replied.
“I saw Henri this afternoon,” he stated casually as he poured two glasses of golden sherry. “He sends his regards and compliments. I plan to have him to dinner before he returns home.”
“Do you wish me to inform Mrs. Webster, or will you tell her?” she softly inquired, seeking to learn of her future duties here. She patiently awaited his answer.
“You may tell her we will have guests for dinner on this Saturday evening. As for your other duties,” he smoothly continued as if reading her thoughts, “My dear wife, they will be as follows: hostess, companion, mistress… of this house, confidant, and perhaps friend one day very soon. These duties apply both here and in Williamsburg. The winters here are cold and lonely; much of the time must be spent inside. We shall enjoy the talents and company of each other. It will offer us an excellent opportunity to get better acquainted and relaxed around each other. There are many games and books here, thanks to old Mr. Grimsley. There is also a piano; do you play?” he suddenly inquired.
“I did, but it has been a long time since I have done so.
“Excellent! With a little practice, I am sure your skill will return. When the weather is permissible, we can take long, invigorating rides in the snow. I shall look forward to spending cozy, quiet evenings in pleasant and stimulating conversation with you. As for your position as mistress of ‘our’ home, you will assume the running of this house, as well as the one in Virginia when we return there. Mrs. Webster will assist you in any areas of doubt or difficulty until you are ready to do so.”
He grinned mischievously before going on. “Of course I will ask Mrs. Webster to come here only three days a week from now on. She will continue to take care of the heavy, menial chores while you see to the lighter, more important matters. I suggest you learn all you can from her as I wish my family to be favorably impressed with my selection of a proper wife. Mrs. King will be coming over the first of next week to begin work on your new wardrobe; I cannot permit my wife to look the part of a street urchin. She has her orders; I will expect you to cooperate fully with her.”
“As you wish, Jeffery,” she meekly agreed.
“We will take all meals together unless I am out on business or away for a few days,” he announced calmly. That unexpected news sparked her interest. She would not have to be Jeffery’s captive full-time!
“Where do you go on business? Hiram says the river is unsafe during the winter.”
He laughed. “My dear wife, who would dare to attack me or my boats?” was his only reply. “When I am away, you will remain in the house where it is safe and warm; understand?”
She nodded yes, her curiosity piqued, but controlled. “When we have dinner guests, I will expect you to behave as the attentive, obedient wife. To make sure you comprehend my full instructions and can efficiently carry them out, we will regularly practice our manners and warmth.”
Noting the look of apprehension and suspicion which darkened her emerald eyes, he sneered disdainfully, “Do not fret, my sweet; I said practice, not perform.”
He watched her face fuse a deep scarlet at his scathing rebuke. “Our deal applies only in private and only in the bedroom. I have no intention of either ravishing you or seducing you. Frankly, I do not care for dutiful or reluctant submission from my wife. I much prefer a hot-blooded, passionate female beneath me, not one soiled and terrified by some barbarian!” He revealed his continual resentment toward her and her past.
Anger outweighed Alisha’s cautious fear. “I see,” she icily retorted, feeling hurt by his comment for some mysterious reason. “If you are quite finished with your rules of conduct for me, I believe dinner is ready.”
“Dinner is ready when I say it is, Mrs. Gordon. You will pour us another sherry, will you not?” he asked in an authoritative tone.
Jeffery was a man accustomed to giving orders and having them obeyed. Slightly cowered by his surfaced hostility, Alisha determined it best to carry out his wishes whenever possible.
She poured the two glasses of sherry and handed one to him. Misty eyes met his hard blue ones as she murmured, “Evidently I have upset you in some way. I’m sorry, Jeffery. You must agree this situation does take some getting used to. Can you honestly fault me for being afraid or suspicious of you? We’re married now, just like you demanded; can’t we make the best of it?” she softly entreated.
Seeing she was properly subdued and punished, Jeffery saw no reason to withhold his agreement. “As you wish, Mrs. Gordon,” he murmured huskily, seeming to derive some pleasure from calling her by her new name. “May I make one helpful suggestion?”
She met his steady, unreadable look. “Unless you give me reason to do so, there is no need to either fear or mistrust me in the future. In addition, I need no reminders of our shared past; it is just as clear to me as it is to you. As for your conduct, I am positive you understand my expectations of you, just as I am positive you are qualified to carry them out with great flair.” With that declaration, their new life together began…
As the winter weeks snailishly passed by, Alisha came to the realization that Jeffery had accurately outlined their life together. Their days were a farce of love. They were neither happy nor sad, serene nor tense, good nor bad, loving nor hostile. It appeared to be a period of testing, of searching, of learning, and of waiting.
After a great deal of practice and effort, they conversed with ease and politeness. At times, they even enjoyed the other’s company. When requested, Alisha would play the piano or read aloud for their mutual pleasure and relaxation. Although it was the midst of an arduous and freezing winter
, they continued to share delicious meals which were mainly prepared by Mrs. Webster.
On the days when she did not come, Alisha would take over the cooking and light cleaning. Jeffery was gratified to learn of her expertise in these areas. Alisha could prepare a full meal just as efficiently and quickly as his housekeeper could. She was neat and quick with her chores. He had to concede that his house had never run more smoothly or calmly; Alisha certainly added grace and civility in this barren wasteland.
Alisha had been distressed to learn of Moses’ departure before she could speak privately with him. She had hoped to send a message to Joe. Now, all she could do was wait until spring. By then, she would have her mind made up as to whether or not she could remain as Jeffery’s spurious wife or escape to Joe’s cabin with him. Her decision would hinge upon Jeffery’s treatment of her between now and then. There were many things to consider.
Divorce tasted bitter in her mouth; becoming a runaway wife even more so. If matters could work out between her and her husband, she would remain at his side. She could not even think about what Jeffery would do to her and to Joe if she discarded her vows and promises to him. Besides, in all honesty, the life which Jeffery could provide for her was most tempting. To return to civilization and the kind of life which she had been born to sounded too good to be denied or cast aside. Alisha felt she was already thriving in her new and comfortable surroundings.
She could only pray that Jeffery would keep his word to her. If he did, their life could be most rewarding and comfortable. After all, Jeffery was a fascinating man. He was handsome, witty, and suave. If Jeffery could lose his evil traits, perhaps there could be more between them. After all, they were legally wed.
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