Lord Phillip's Folly

by Susan M. Baganz

  “I’ve learned to be circumspect.” She looked down at her hands in her lap.

  Phillip knocked on the roof of the carriage to let the driver know it was time to continue their journey.

  “You are not a first-born son, are you?”

  “No. If you hoped to snare the heir, you misjudged matters. My oldest brother already has two hardy sons to ascend to earldom should the need arise.”

  “So, you were the spare in your family.”

  He nodded.

  “But you didn’t choose the church, the law, or a military career?”

  “I was fortunate in that I had no need to, although I considered the law or the military briefly. Not much need for the church, but Marcus and Josie would strongly disagree.”

  “Josie talked to me about God.”

  “I’m not surprised.”

  “You respect them and hold them in great affection but you disdain their faith?”

  He sighed. “I respect their faith. It works for them. I just see no need of it in my own life.”

  Beth opened her mouth as if she were to speak but shut it again and looked out the window.

  “You had something to say? Don’t be afraid to share your views with me,” Phillip urged, suddenly quite interested in his wife’s perspective.

  She turned back to him. “I’ve seen too much evil in this world to deny there are demons. So why would I deny the existence of a God as well?”

  “Demons? I was just talking about going to church.”

  Beth shook her head. “No. Faith in Jesus is more than that. It is a relationship with the God of the universe. It transcends a church building. From what I understood so far, there is a spiritual war being waged that takes place beyond our sight.”

  “I don’t understand.”

  “I’m not saying I do either, but I shall keep reading the Bible Josie gave me in an effort to grasp this.”

  “Let me know if you figure it out.” A small smile played on her lips and all he could do was remember kissing them, how many nights ago was that?

  “I shall indeed do so.”

  The rest of the journey was quiet. Phillip kicked himself for not being courageous enough to seek to know his bride better. He reasoned he had the rest of his life and since he hadn’t wanted a wife he didn’t need to go out of his way to accommodate one. He’d treat her with respect and would most likely enjoy their nights together, but he needed little else. Something teased at the back of his conscience telling him that he was being selfish.

  She trapped me.

  You don’t know that for sure.

  It was as if a demon and angel were arguing from both sides of his head. He closed his eyes and shook his head willing them both to be quiet.

  They arrived as the sun began to set.

  Phillip was pleased to see his bride lean forward to get her first glimpse of their home. Honey colored stone with ivy growing up the sides and three stories high, Stanton Hall was an average-sized country manor. It was more than sufficient for his needs as a second son.

  “I have only owned the place for two years and have yet to do any redecorating. You may undertake that task. The staff is small but you may supplement as you see fit.”

  “Phillip, it’s wonderful. The grounds, the way the sun seems to illuminate the buildings and glisten off the stone, is enchanting.”

  “I’m delighted it meets with your approval.”

  By the time the carriage rolled to a stop in front of the main entrance, the staff managed to line up outside to meet the new mistress of the household.

  Phillip made all the introductions and noted how every servant beamed their delight at having a mistress in residence. He was glad she was being greeted so warmly but regretted they would only be here for a week or two at the most. The season would end before long and they needed to make an appearance in town to ensure she was accepted by the ton for her future well-being. A new wardrobe and introductions to the right people were integral to that plan and time was short.

  Mrs. Wilson escorted his bride to her chambers which were connected to Phillip’s, so Beth could freshen up before dinner.

  Phillip went to do the same but quickly arrived back in his study to glance through letters that had yet to be forwarded to his London address. He placed them on the desk and sat. His rooms in London were not fit for a bride. Gentleman’s quarters only. They’d need to stay in a hotel until he arranged for his own house. If Marcus remained at Rose Hill they could possibly stay at his London home. Phillip was unsure. At least he had his solicitor looking into residences for him.

  He pulled out some paper and dipped his quill to write letters to his mother and friends to confirm his marriage and apologize they were unable to be a part of the event. He promised his mother he’d bring his bride to town soon to meet the family. He finished sanding the last letter as his wife entered the room.

  She stepped in slowly, taking in the surroundings.

  This was the one room he had furnished to his specifications as he spent most of his days here. He rose to go to her. “Are your rooms to your satisfaction?”

  “Everything is fine. So much nicer than I dared dream.” She motioned to the bookshelves around her, the fireplace, and the desk. “This room suits you well.”

  He was only a step away but couldn’t keep himself from closing the distance between them, gently touching her arm. “I’ll give you a tour tomorrow and you can select a room to call your own.”

  “Thank you.” Her eyes dropped to her hands.

  He reached forward with his right hand to lift her chin so he could view those bewitching green eyes. He longed to give her words of comfort, and assurances that the night ahead…

  A knock on the door led him to drop his hands to his side. Masters, the Stanton butler, entered to announce dinner. Phillip held out his arm and Beth placed her hand on it. He led her into the dining room with a table set for two.

  The meal was quiet. His new wife didn’t eat much but he attributed it to nerves. When they had finished, he stood to help her from her chair. Placing a kiss on her hand he gave her a gentle smile. “I’ll be up in an hour.”

  She nodded, avoiding his gaze and left the room.

  Phillip sat to savor his port as the staff removed the covers. He finished his drink and rose to go pace in his study. Was he a monster to expect her to gladly enter into a wedding night when they barely knew each other? He had not kissed her since that night in Rose Hill. He kept a tight rein on his passion but this was his by right. It was time. He was home. With mixed emotions of regret and anticipation, he rose to go to his room to prepare for his first night with his beautiful bride.

  ~*~

  Beth was dressed in her night rail, much as she had been a week hence when she apparently accosted Phillip in his library. An hour had come and the closing of the door from the next room apprised her of her husband’s imminent appearance. Her pulse raced and she took deep breaths. A quick glance in the mirror revealed long hair flowing down and her eyes bright in anticipation. She waited at his pleasure. But it was time. She couldn’t help but smile in spite of her fears about the actual event. She strode to the fireplace and sat.

  A soft door click preceded his arrival. He wore a dressing robe as he entered. Why would she expect anything else? He was as proper as ever. Did this man ever lose control?

  “M’lord,” she acknowledged him.

  He came to stand by the fireplace mantel. “Beth.”

  “Would you care for something to drink?”

  He shook his head. “Are you afraid of me?” he asked.

  “No. But I want to know what I missed.”

  “I don’t understand.”

  “I was told I kissed you.”

  “You did.”

  “I thought it was a dream. I’d like to do that while awake.”

  A soft smile played on his lips. “I’m willing to oblige you.”

  “Tell me what you saw that night?” She stood and strode to the door.

/>   “You entered the room, dressed much like you are now.”

  She turned to face him

  “You never said a word. Just slowly walked toward me.”

  She took a step forward. And another. “Yes?”

  “You came to stand right in front of me.”

  He gulped as she drew near. His eyes watched her, traveled her entire body and back to her face.

  “And then?”

  “You reached up…”

  “Like this?” She put an arm on his shoulder and snaked it around his head.

  He nodded.

  “Then what?”

  “You kissed me.”

  She raised up on her toes and let her lips caress his. His arms went around her pulling her tight and she relaxed into his strength. She savored every moment of the kiss. He released her.

  “Then what?”

  “Marcus came in and found us.”

  “Let’s pretend he didn’t. What would have happened next?”

  He didn’t answer in words but drew her close again and showed her, much to their mutual delight.

  ~*~

  Elizabeth woke in bed alone the next morning but the depression on the pillow next to her made her smile. He’d spent the night enfolding her in his strength. After he’d dozed off she’d spent time staring at him. Even with his hair mussed up, he appeared perfect to her. Would he come to love her in spite of the inauspicious beginning to their marriage? Was that too much to hope for? She stretched languidly under the covers before tossing them off, grabbing her robe, and starting her ablutions. Eagerness to see her new home fueled her. And to spend that time in the presence of the man whom she’d spent the previous evening with, tantalized her. Would he kiss her again? Oh, she hoped so.

  She found her husband at the breakfast table. Every hair was in its perfect place and she itched to run her fingers through it and leave it messy. Phillip took great pride in his appearance. Wearing her borrowed and remade clothing, she felt shabby sitting next to him.

  “Is something concerning you, Beth?”

  She nodded her acceptance of her coffee and a plate of food from the footman before answering. “Will you be ashamed of me when we arrive in London? I lack a wardrobe that could compare to your standard of dress.”

  “You could wear rags and be beautiful to me. However, I agree that you are in need of a new wardrobe and I am aware of an excellent modiste who we will contact when we arrive in town.” He sipped his coffee. “Speaking of that, I realize my rooms in town will not be adequate for us. I’ve set my solicitor to the task of locating a suitable residence. We can inspect his choices once we are in London. I expect you to be honest about what you like or dislike.”

  “You are generous.”

  “Did you expect me to be an ogre? My parents have been happily married and my father was faithful to my mother. Very often they are caught acting like newlyweds and I have hoped that as we age we will not lose that sense of wonder with each other.”

  Her face grew warm. “You should not speak so in front of the servants,” she whispered.

  Phillip raised a brow at the footman who stood by the buffet ready to serve their needs. The man gave a curt nod and exited the room, silently closing the pocket door behind him. “There, is that better?”

  Beth gave him a smile. “Thank you.”

  “My servants are circumspect. They will often be around. I do not let that hinder me as I go about my life. They are paid well to be of service. I hope you don’t expect me to only kiss you in the privacy of our suite.”

  “I’ve little experience with managing a home and I would want them to respect me.”

  “Why wouldn’t they? You are their mistress and I suspect they are rejoicing that a woman is now in charge. I’m afraid I’ve not been all that my housekeeper and butler would desire as far as taking care of the home. I’ve allowed them leeway. It is up to you to tell them how you wish for them to go on.”

  “Now? I hardly know where to begin.”

  “If you are finished with your food, I will give you a personal tour.” One eyebrow raised as if challenging her. But to what? A tour was innocent enough and eagerness had her standing so quickly her chair almost tipped over.

  Phillip rushed to grab it and push it back into the table. “See, that’s what I pay the footman for.” He winked at her.

  Arm in arm they slowly made their way through the rooms. With every space, Phillip would close the door and kiss her, leaving her dizzy with need. So much so that when they finally came to their suite of rooms, she grabbed his cravat and dragged him inside.

  Elsa was there.

  “Elsa, you may leave us. I’ll ring when I have need of you.”

  The young maid bobbed and ducked out the door, shutting it quietly behind her.

  “I have work to do, my dear,” Phillip protested.

  “You most certainly do.” She untied the cravat, tossed it to a chair, and proceeded to unbutton his waistcoat.

  “You intend to ravage me in the middle of the day?”

  “I’m making up for lost time.” She pulled his head down and assaulted him with her kisses.

  He capitulated much to Beth’s delight.

  7

  Their week at Stanton Hall drew to an end and Phillip reluctantly handed his bride into the carriage to begin their journey south to London in easy stages. There would be no stop at Rose Hill. He wished he could stay away from the season longer but he understood the importance of establishing his bride amongst the haute ton and face down any gossip. Announcements would have been read and discussed and by now Lord Follett and Lord Wolton were aware that their plans for Beth had been foiled.

  Phillip started out their journey on horseback but soon joined his wife in the carriage. He enjoyed stealing kisses from his bride and holding her as she rested against him. He’d never acted as a buffer against the bumps of a carriage—or life, but now it seemed he was that and more to this unexpected addition to his life.

  When she wasn’t dozing, they had stimulating conversations about politics and the issues facing the nation. She had even stayed abreast of the war effort.

  “Lord Remington’s brother, Jared Allendale, is an aide-de-camp to Sir Wellesley.”

  “A great commander. ’Tis a shame about Prince Frederick, Duke of York. Did you ever meet his mistress?”

  Phillip’s eyebrows rose. “It isn’t proper conversation for a lady to discuss.”

  “There is only you and I here, and I’m curious.”

  “Next you’ll want to know if I’ve had a mistress.”

  She frowned. “I’d never considered that. It is the norm for a gentleman of the ton to have one, if I’m not mistaken.”

  “It is done. And my past is simply that. My past. My future has no need of anyone other than my wife. I promised to be faithful and I fully intend to adhere to that principle.”

  Her gaze fell to her hands. “I’m sorry if I made you cross.”

  He lifted her chin with his finger and his lips met hers. Pulling away, he sighed. “You haven’t made me cross. I desire none but you.”

  The next morning as they traveled, Phillip was once again on horseback. He would have invited his new wife to join him as well, but she lacked the appropriate clothing. The quiet soothed him and the exercise and space from his wife tempered the temptation she presented with her delectable lips. Marriage wasn’t anything like he’d thought it would be.

  Duke typically rode on the top of the carriage, occasionally flying off and returning, most often when they would stop to change horses. Phillip was startled when the bird swooped down at him forcing him to duck just as the report of a gun was heard. The carriage stopped and Phillip whirled around with his own pistol aimed to where he thought the shot had come from. His outriders were unsuccessful in locating the shooter.

  Beth came running to him as he dismounted.

  “What was that all about?” He shouted at the bird now sitting on top of the carriage watching the excitement.
>
  “Are you all right, Phillip?”

  “I’m well, just furious at that bird of yours for nearly knocking me off my horse.”

  Beth grabbed his arms and pain sliced through his shoulder. She moved around to his side. “You’ve been shot. Come, take off your coat.” She helped him take off his greatcoat and then his suitcoat.

  “Ma’am if you want me to undress further, I suggest we do this inside the carriage.” He wiggled his eyebrows at her but she didn’t laugh.

  “You will come to the carriage so I can bind up that wound.” She turned to the carriage. “Duke. Here darling.” The bird flew awkwardly down to perch on her arm. She checked him over and found some flight feathers on one wing broken off. “He must have been hit by the bullet as well. I believe he was trying to save you, Phillip.” She kissed the bird’s beak. “You were my brave warrior, Duke. Thank you.”

  Phillip stood there stunned. Why was she kissing the bird and thanking it? He was the one shot and bleeding.

  Beth turned to him. “Do you have anything to say to Duke?”

  Sighing, Phillip said, “I’m sorry I was so hasty, Duke. It seems I owe you an apology. Thank you for saving me.” Phillip gave a bow and handed off the reins to the tiger who assisted his coachman. “Perhaps we should seek the shelter of the carriage, dear wife, so you can tend to my wound.”

  “Certainly, dear husband. Allow me to bandage your injury and soothe your pride, hmm?”

  He grabbed her as the world spun and righted itself. She assisted him to the carriage, this time helping him up the steps first and following behind. She drew the window covers shut. Soon Phillip forgot all about the scratch in his shoulder from the bullet as his wife cared for his every need.

  ~*~

  Beth’s heart raced as she settled next to her husband and tended his injury. His face grew pale as he relaxed against the squabs of the carriage. She bound his wound with a spare cravat. His shirt was ruined as was his coat. It struck her that if Duke had not intervened, she would be a widow after only a week of marriage. While she had not sought to wed this man, she could not imagine a future without him. Their compatibility surprised her.