Taming the Duke

by Jackie Manning

  For the first time in his life, Dalton realized how wrong he had been. He wanted to ask for forgiveness, but…

  Her eyes filled with fresh tears, and when she reached out to him, he was instantly at her side. For the first time that he could remember, he held his mother in his arms. Long-held hurt and anger melted away as she sobbed against him. In its place was understanding. Understanding and love for this woman who bore him, and love for his precious Alicia—the woman who unlocked his heart and set him free.

  When his mother’s weeping fell silent, he drew back. “We must decide what to do.”

  She smiled, touching his face with tear-stained fingers. “Thank you, Son, but I don’t think there’s anything we can do.”

  “We must protect Olivia,” Dalton said. “She must be told the truth.”

  His mother’s eyes widened in horror. “You mustn’t tell her.”

  “Mother, we have no choice—”

  “You promised!”

  He took her trembling hand. “No. I said I would be discreet. But if Templestone found out, then others might. More than likely a servant or midwife sold the secret….” He paused at his mother’s pained look, and he thought his heart would break.

  “But Olivia isn’t like you, Dalton. She’s so like George, so gentle, so vulnerable.” She met his gaze, the pride back in her voice. “You have your father’s vitality, his authority.” Her mouth lifted. “Even though you have my pride.”

  Dalton gently squeezed the frail fingers. “Olivia is stronger than you think. She must know the truth to keep from being hurt. You know it’s the only way.”

  She raised her chin, but said nothing.

  He kissed the top of her head, then crossed the room. He turned the doorknob when her strangled whisper stopped him.

  “But Olivia will never forgive me.”

  He glanced over his shoulder at the proud woman gripping the cane. “I can’t speak for my sister,” he said gently. “But I think she will. In the meantime, you’ll always have me.”

  Through the thickening fog, Dalton’s coach tilted and bumped along the cobbles before turning down Park Lane toward his London town house. Never had he seen his life as clearly as now. He felt like a curtain had been lifted on his soul.

  Alicia. With her intuition and gentleness, she would know how to break the news to his sister in the less harmful of ways. Sweet loving Alicia. She had shown him the meaning of love. And God, how he loved her. And it was time to tell her so. He could hardly wait.

  Alicia stared at the calling card. “Mr. Justin Sykes is waiting in the hall?” Surprised at the late hour, she realized that of all people, Justin would hardly be expected to follow Society’s rules of visiting married women.

  “Your grace. Shall I show him in?”

  She hesitated. Perhaps she should refuse, since Dalton wasn’t here. Then she remembered that her mother was in residence, and would be a suitable chaperon. Besides, she was glad to have the chance to speak to him again and apologize.

  “Yes, Jamison, please show Mr. Sykes to the withdrawing room. Ask my mother to join us, then bring tea and cakes.” As the white-haired butler turned to leave, she added, “And leave the door open after you show Mr. Sykes inside the room, please.”

  “Yes, your grace.”

  Alicia ordered the maids to continue packing while she smoothed her skirt and went downstairs. A few moments later, the butler ushered Justin inside the formal room.

  “Mr. Sykes, how kind of you to call,” she said extending her hand. His dark good looks were set off by a beige waistcoat of finest wool, matching knee breeches and white linen that contrasted vividly with his swarthy features.

  “You’re looking lovelier than I remember, if that’s possible.” Justin kissed her hand, his dark eyes twinkling.

  “Do sit down. I’ve ordered tea.”

  He released her and took a seat across from her chair. “I saw you, your mother and sisters shopping this afternoon on Bond Street. I took the chance to pay my respects and say goodbye before I leave for the Continent.”

  “How nice of you, Mr. Sykes. We received your note a few days ago. How brave of you to help fight with Wellington.”

  His mouth twitched. “Brave is not a word often associated with me, Duchess.”

  She sensed otherwise, but didn’t contradict him. “Dalton was detained by estate business, and hadn’t planned to join us for several more days. But I’ve decided to cut my visit short. I’ll be returning to Havencrest in the morning. I hope you’ll visit us before you depart. Dalton will miss seeing you.”

  Disappointment clouded his face. “I’m afraid that’s not possible. I’ll be sailing at first light.” He shrugged. “Tell Dalton I’m sorry to have missed him. But I’m very pleased to have the chance to see you again.”

  He leaned back, taking in her appearance. “Well, is my best friend treating you well? Remember, just one word from you, and I’ll beat the man bloody.”

  She laughed, enjoying the friendly banter between them. “Yes, we’re quite happy, Mr. Sykes.”

  “I’m sure that he is.” The smile that started in his eyes spread to his face.

  She glanced nervously at the open door. She hoped her mother might not interrupt them before Alicia had a chance to apologize. “I was hoping to have a few private words with you, Mr. Sykes. You see, there’s something that’s troubling me.”

  “Of course. Your wish is my command.”

  “I’m offering an apology, not a request. You see, I’d like to tell you I’m so very sorry for the way I misjudged you.”

  He cocked a brow as though surprised. “I beg your pardon?” Then his mouth quirked with unrepressed amusement, and he shrugged. “Ah, you have nothing to apologize for—”

  “Oh, but I do. You see, I never gave a thought to how maligned you were the night we were erroneously reputed to have…” She glanced away for a moment before meeting his gaze. “I think you know.”

  Justin nodded, his face serious. “But you have done nothing for which to apologize,” he said softly. “Under the shocking circumstances, your behavior to me was as any young lady of quality would react.” He regarded her with searching intent. “But only a woman with your kind heart would think to care for my feelings. True, the charge was unfounded, and to be privy to the downfall of a young, innocent maid was a burden I found quite distressing, even for such a rake as myself.”

  When he stood and reached for her hand, she rose and came beside him.

  “I’m most thankful that your name was cleared and the matter finally set straight,” he said, her hand in his.

  She smiled. “Yes, for both of us.”

  He gave her a courtly bow. “I must be leaving, Duchess. I am expected for a late supper with several of the officers who’ll be sailing with me. I’m so very glad we had this opportunity.”

  The smile he gave her was dazzling, and she could only wonder how many young ladies’ hearts would be broken when they learned he was leaving for war. “For what it’s worth, Mr. Sykes, I believe you rather enjoy your reputation as a rake.” She smiled at his huff of laughter.

  He looked as if he were seriously weighing the idea. She chuckled. “You quite enjoy thumbing your nose at the ton. But I don’t think you’re as naughty as you try to make people believe.”

  “You don’t?”

  Shaking her head, Alicia continued. “No, I’m quite sure of it, Mr. Sykes. I sense you have a very kind heart, too. I think that’s why my husband values you so highly as a friend.”

  “Perhaps it is you who brings out the good in me, Alicia. You do that to Dalton.” It was the first time he had used her given name—a bold stroke. She watched him measure her for a moment, and she realized that the intimacy was born of their new, mutual friendship.

  “Since we’re confessing secrets,” he said, his voice low, “I have an apology to convey to you, as well.”

  “Really, Mr. Sykes?”

  “Hmm. When Dalton said he was getting married, I must admit
that I didn’t take him too seriously. But after talking with you and seeing the change in Dalton, I know that he truly loves you.”

  She turned away. You’re terribly mistaken, she wanted to cry out. “You know nothing of what you speak, Mr. Sykes.”

  He placed his hands gently on her shoulders and turned her to face him. “You don’t believe Dalton loves you?”

  Yes, I want to believe you, but I can’t. “I don’t wish to discuss this with you, please.”

  His hands dropped to his sides. “Of course, I’m sorry.” He stared at her, then as if to restore their earlier mood, he winked, his mouth lifting in a teasing smile. “I warned you that I was a rake. Completely incorrigible.”

  She couldn’t help return the smile. Tilting her head, she looked at him. “I thought I brought out the best in you?”

  “Just think what my worst must be!”

  She laughed. “Touché, Mr. Sykes.”

  Justin took her hands in his. “If I return from the war, I hope I find a woman like you to share my life.”

  For a split second, she saw her own fear for his future mirrored in his eyes. Her throat tightened with emotion. “Of course you’ll return to England, Mr. Sykes,” she said with confidence. “And you’ll find love waiting for you when you least expect it.” She touched his cheek, her eyes suddenly stinging with the threat of tears. “Return to us safe and sound. May God keep you in the palm of His hand.”

  Justin took her hands and kissed them. “Thank you, my lady.”

  “Goodbye, Justin.” She put her hands on his shoulders and kissed him on the cheek. In the few moments of their silent embrace, she sensed something that nearly took her breath away. She could almost see the blood, hear the gunfire, mens’ agonizing screams. Yes, she could sense the danger that he would soon face.

  When she pulled back and their eyes met, something flickered far back in his dark gaze. If she didn’t know better, she would have thought he knew he might not return.

  “You’ll be in my prayers, Justin.” In his embrace, she felt as though she were sending off her own brother to war. For all the time they stood there, she felt a terrifying sense of something dreadful happening.

  “Did you hear something?” he asked, looking around.

  Justin sensed it, too. It was more of a feeling than a sound. She glanced at the open door. “Perhaps it’s Jamison with the tea tray,” she said lightly, hoping he believed her.

  Justin shrugged, the mood broken. He squeezed her hand. “I must dash. Thank you, again, special lady.”

  Alicia watched him leave, a deepening sense of disquiet still nagging her. I wish Dalton were here, she mused, hugging herself against a sudden chill.

  Dalton stood in the shadowed hall alcove and watched Justin leave the withdrawing room and hurry past him. Dear God, if he hadn’t seen them with his own eyes, he’d never have believed it.

  His wife and his best friend.

  Dalton balled his fists, fighting the urge to run after Justin and tear him apart. But that would be too good for him!

  He had to get away. Leave before the servants noticed him. He couldn’t face Alicia or anyone before he had a chance to think.

  He stumbled down the back steps and waited in the bushes, like some wounded animal, until Justin’s carriage wheeled off into the fog. The dampness clung to his face, to his clothes, but he didn’t feel it. All he could think of was what he’d just seen. His loving wife in the arms of his trusted friend.

  For a twisted moment he wondered if he was living his father’s life. Had he somehow been transformed, by the powers of Satan, to relive the sins of his parents?

  God, he was stark raving mad! He had to get away. He ran through the thick fog until he was beside the coach. He pulled open the door and bolted inside before the footman even saw him. “Drive!” he ordered, barely aware when the coach picked up speed.

  Justin’s letter, alerting Alicia when he would be in London. Her sudden decision to accompany her mother to London. Her feigned reluctance to leave without her husband.

  What a fool he was. Just like his father!

  Chapter Nineteen

  When Alicia arrived at Havencrest to learn that Dalton was in London, her heart sank. If only she had been more patient to see him and remained in town, they would be together now. Her disappointment dragged on into the next day when she found Olivia with her son in the nursery.

  Alicia brushed her finger across Drake’s plump cheek. “I stopped for only a moment, Olivia. I’m on my way to go over the menus with Cook. Then I must see Penn, who’s waiting to bring me up to date with Bashshar’s progress.”

  “Stay and play with us for a while,” Olivia said with a coaxing smile. “Little Drake loves your company. I was about to line up his toy soldiers.”

  While Olivia chattered, a sudden wave of nausea swept over Alicia; she steadied herself on the back of the chair.

  Olivia’s smile faded. “My dear, you’re unwell!”

  Alicia caught her breath and took a seat beside Olivia. “No, I’m quite fine. You’re going to become an aunt, is all.”

  Olivia gasped. “I’m so pleased. Does Dalton know?”

  “No. That was one of the reasons I was so eager to see him.”

  Olivia put her arm around Alicia. “He’ll be delighted!”

  Suddenly, the image of Dalton’s child, sleeping and playing in this very nursery where generations of Warfield children had played sprang to Alicia’s mind. She wanted to see her child ride Old Cobbie and watch him play with toy soldiers. She wanted to grow old with Dalton. But she had no right to this dream.

  She blinked back tears as she rose from the chair. “I can’t stay, Olivia. I’ll see you tonight after my evening ride.”

  “If you’re with child, Alicia, you shouldn’t ride horses.”

  Alicia whirled around, her hand at her throat. “Oh, Olivia. I hadn’t thought of that. Who will ride Bashshar in the Classic?”

  Olivia quietly stroked her son’s gold hair. “That’s not important, now. You must do everything to get your rest and take care of yourself and your baby.”

  “Of course, you’re right.” Tears blurred her vision as she dashed from the nursery and fled down the hall.

  After supper, Alicia was preparing for bed when she heard Rufus bark from the stairway. A rush of excitement filled her with joy. Dalton was home! Before her hand touched the knob, he opened the door. Her spirits soared as she flew to his arms.

  Although he had braced himself against the onslaught of rage he would feel at seeing her again, Dalton wasn’t prepared for his overwhelming need to hold her once more.

  She clung to him, and he caught her scent of wild roses. For a second, he wanted to rip from his mind the image of what had occurred between her and Sykes, and never let her go. But just as quickly, reason returned, and he released her.

  “Oh, Dalton, I’ve missed you.” She pulled back, her gaze searching his face. “What’s wrong, Dalton?”

  He should have known she would sense his mood. “I’ve some news I must tell Olivia. I’d hoped you would help me.”

  “Of course, Dalton.” She waited for him to continue.

  “Templestone was the man who had ordered the shooting.” He ignored her gasp of surprise as he continued. When he told her about his visit to his mother, he waited for her reaction.

  “Dear sweet Olivia. This will break her heart.”

  “I thought she might want you there when I tell her.”

  “Of course, Dalton.”

  “No use putting off what must be done,” he said finally.

  Olivia and Robert were playing cards in the drawing room when he and Alicia entered the room. “I’m glad you’re here, Robert,” Dalton said, closing the doors. He ordered the hall butler to leave, then ordered that they were not to be disturbed.

  When Alicia took a seat beside his sister, Olivia’s face paled. “What’s wrong?” Olivia asked, her gaze fixed on him.

  “We have something to tell you, Sister.
” Dalton sat across from Robert, who folded the cards and put them to one side.

  Dalton explained all the events leading up to his visit with the dowager duchess.

  “But why was Templestone blackmailing Mother?” Olivia asked.

  Dalton hesitated, then glanced across the table at Alicia.

  “Olivia,” Alicia began gently. “Before your parents were married, your mother was in love with another man. But she was forced to marry your father, the firstborn son.”

  Olivia stiffened. “That’s not true. She loved only Father.” Olivia glanced at Dalton as though looking for support.

  “Yes, she loved Father,” Dalton said gently, “but not in the same way she loved his younger brother, George.”

  “That’s slanderous!” Surprise and fear crossed Olivia’s face. “I don’t know if I want to hear any more.”

  “You must, Olivia.” Dalton fixed his eyes on her.

  “No.” She stood and stepped back, almost tipping the chair.

  Robert rushed to his wife. “See here, is this necessary?”

  “I’m afraid so.” All Dalton could think of was the image of Alicia in Justin’s embrace. His gut ached as though he’d been kicked. He wondered how long she had known Justin. The next question burned in his mind. Were Alicia and Justin innocent when found together that fateful night? Or was it a lover’s tryst? Dear God, what if the dowager had been telling the truth?

  “You’ve always been cold and unfeeling to Mother.” Olivia spat the words at him. “Ever since I can remember, you and she—”

  “Sit down, Olivia,” Dalton said, his voice gentle.

  Robert put his arm around his wife, then frowned at him. “I’d like to speak to you privately, Dalton.”

  Dalton sighed. “There’s no easy way to say this.” He looked at his sister. “Olivia, your father was not the man you’ve come to know as your father. Your real father was Uncle George.”

  Olivia laughed. “What did you say?”

  Robert pointed at Dalton. “See here, that’s about enough—”

  Alicia rose and came beside Olivia. “Try to understand—”