Chapter Eight
“Not long after you moved to New York, your father was approached by the Black Hand. Eugene had shown promise in banking and this organization needed help with their finances. Eugene was a good asset for them to have in their back pockets.”
“You say organization. What do they do precisely?”
“They deal with several underground activities such as bootlegging, brothels and moonshine,” Julius told Olive. He had placed her tenderly upon the settee in the front salon and she tried to follow his explanation. Olive’s face went ashen as she tried to envision her loving father having an affiliation with such debauchery.
“Over the years, they have expanded their empire across the country. I was recently brought into the fold but I fear they do not trust me yet. Your father is what is called a capo. He is well respected and does the bidding of the boss. He is not Italian and being a capo is as much as he could hope for. It is quite an honor for a man without direct connections to Italy.”
“And what does that make you?” Olive asked dully, suddenly understanding the relevance of her role. Julius read her expression.
“I am a solider. A new soldier with potential to help the Black Hand expand here in New Orleans. But as I mentioned previously, there were trust issues with me.”
“Why did they not trust you?” Olive asked but she was almost afraid of the answer.
“To be honest, darling, until I married you, I did not have respect for much of anything. Not money, not women and certainly not myself. I gave them good cause for their wariness.”
“Which is why you married me.” The statement was matter-of-fact and despite Olive’s realization, Julius was surprised at her astuteness. Not many women would have understood they had been used as a pawn.
“Yes, your father thought if we were to join houses, my loyalty would strengthen and it would bond our families together. I was very much against the idea but I was in no position to argue with him.”
Olive cast her eyes downward, her disappointment becoming a wave of physical sickness. Julius took her chin in his hands.
“At first, I was against the idea,” he told her. “Yet when I met you, I could not help myself. You were nothing like what I expected. I have never felt so connected to another woman nor so in love.”
Olive searched his face for signs of guile but she could see none.
“I wanted to fight the emotions I felt when I was near you but I could not any longer. I am in love with you, Olive. I cannot live without you.”
Olive shook her head as if to clear her mind.
This is not his fault, not truly. This was my father’s idea, using his only daughter as collateral for his business. No small wonder that the men in New York refused to court me! They were terrified of my father and his associates. They were concerned that what happened here today could happen to them.
Julius continued to watch her, gaging her expressions and Olive realized she was not angry at her husband. In fact, as she thought about the situation, she became slightly aroused.
You have longed for excitement and adventure your entire life. It does not become any more provocative than this!
“I still do not understand this, Julius. If you are working for those men, why did they come here with intent to harm us?”
Julius smiled tightly.
“I fear that they suspect I have been skimming money from the boss’ investments. They came here to make a point which backfired dramatically due to your incredibly swift thinking.” Again, his face registered sincere concern.
“Are you certain they did not hurt you?”
“No, they did not. Your timing was impeccable.”
They smiled warmly at one another and Olive felt a now familiar jolt of electricity course through her body.
“I must tell my father what happened,” she said thoughtfully. “Perhaps he can ensure they do not return with a vengeance.”
“I had the very same thought,” Julius agreed, moving closer to place a sweet kiss about her lips.
“You are a remarkable woman, Olive Perone,” he told her. “I thank God for you every day.”
Olive nodded absently, her mind traveling elsewhere.
I wonder if any women work for the Black Hand.
Forbidden
~Bonus Story~
A Steamy Arranged Marriage Historical Menage
Colonel Greenwood was dying of an illness. He knew he had to secure his family before he left the world. His young daughter was not even out in society, but he was able to procure a deal for marriage as soon as she turned 18 to a Mister Edward Roberts. Until then, his young son would have to find a way to care for the property and provide for the family with the occasional help of the Colonel’s brother.
Now, Charlotte’s 18th birthday is coming up, and she is to begin courting Edward who she quickly finds handsome but a little silly for her taste, but what can she do? Things get even more complicated when his handsome, younger cousin, Henry, comes to town and challenges everything Charlotte believes.
* * *
Chapter 1
Charlotte Greenwood held tight to her hat ribbons as she walked in the garden. The strong wind blew her blonde curls across her creamy white face and into her large blue eyes. It threatened to lift the hat off her head. She spoke in a refined ladylike voice to Ira Williams, her friend since childhood. “I can not believe the day is almost upon me. I shall be of age in a matter of days. I consider eighteen to be a knowledgeable age. I must practise looking down my nose at those less intelligent. “Charlotte giggled at how nonsensical she sounded.
Ira laughed aloud as she commented, “I can not imagine you looking down your tiny nose at a person. You are much too delicate and kind. I , however, have the perfect nose to look down. My father’s nose looks quite out of place on my face. “Ira had her father’s nose and her mother’s mousy brown hair. She appeared very plain beside the perfection of Charlotte.
Charlotte became serious as she spoke of her betrothal. “I am finding myself to be particularly nervous to meet my future husband for the first time. One never knows if they will find their betrothed to be repugnant or if they will perhaps swoon at the sight of his beauty. There is also the possibility of Edward finding me unsuitable. My goodness, just speaking of it is enough to cause the vapors.”
Ira assured Charlotte, “You need not worry. All the boys consider you to be the height of perfection. Edward will be besotted. As to his looks, I have heard that the entire family is blessed with beauty. I believe you to be lucky. I am twenty-five and as yet unwed. Spinsterhood is all I have to look forward to. You have met my Aunt Winifred. I do not wish to grow old and scary while residing in the homes of distant relatives as a servant. It would be so exciting to be betrothed and go to London. What a magnificent life you lead!”
Charlotte clapped her small hands gleefully as she replied, “I must admit, I can not wait to see London. Streets full of beautiful carriages, well dressed people, buildings taller than any I have ever seen, and a lot of noise if my uncle is to be believed. It sounds heavenly. I become so bored walking in the garden, embroidering, and learning how to run a household. I want excitement, balls, rides in the park, and magnificent things to sketch. Drawing is my passion along with reading.”
Ira’s eyes sparkled when she admitted, “I would love to go the theatre. Actors upon the stage, pretending to be someone else. How brilliant. I have always dreamed of being a different person. I would choose someone beautiful, powerful, and interesting. Alas, I must be content with my mousy self. Nevermind my self pity. Oh Charlotte, how I shall miss you! Edward must allow you to visit often. Perhaps he will be generous enough to obtain a residence in closer proximity to Wales. Ask him, please.”
“I shall miss you as well. You are the only one I can show my true self to. With others, I must always be a lady. However, with you I am able to laugh loudly, run through the grass, sing naughty songs, and poke fun at the haughtiness of the gentry. I shall just have to dema
nd that visiting often be a part of the marriage agreement, “stated Charlotte as a tear rolled down her velvety cheek. “I must go now. Mother will worry that we shall miss the carriage to London.”
The servants placed two large trunks onto the carriage. A step was set onto the ground for Charlotte and her mother to use for entering the carriage. Emma Greenwood, Charlotte’s mother, settled her plump frame into the seat and sighed, “We are finally on our way. My dear, do please stop fidgeting. The ride ahead is a long one and you will have me quite exhausted in a short time if you do not be still. The last few weeks have proved taxing enough.”
“I am so sorry Mother. I do not mean to cause you anxiety. I fear the excitement and nervousness I am feeling shall not allow me to be still for long. I shall try to follow your example. “Charlotte desperately squeezed her hands together and stiffened her legs in an effort to remain still.
Emma relented and smiled at her daughter as she pronounced, “You can not possibly hold that position for the length of our journey. Your body will ache unbearably. Relax sweet Charlotte. We shall be fine. Enjoy the scenery.”
Charlotte looked out the carriage window and watched her home disappear. She asked, “Mother, what do you know of Edward? Is he hideous or unkind? Will he allow me to read and sketch or demand that I stop such pursuits?”
Emma reached out and took Charlotte’s hand before she answered, “Your father wanted only the best for you. He was quite ill for a long while. During that time he made arrangements for the happiness of our family. Though you were not yet of age, he found a prosperous young man to for you to marry. There were many unmarried men to choose from. Some were old, others young and wild, and a few poor, but greedy. Father had little time and still he refused to accept these men. He waited for someone young, prosperous, kind, and handsome. He would never give away his precious daughter to a less worthy man. Rest assured, Edward is a good man.”
Charlotte thought over her mother’s words and inquired, “Why could I not wait, have a season and choose a husband on my own?”
Tears gathered in Emma’s eyes as she explained, “Your father had many people to worry about. He was determined for all to be settled before his death. Your brother is too young to care for the estate alone in the long term. Uncle Charles shall help when he can. However, he has his own estate. A husband for you shall provide the necessary oversight of our estate and allow your brother to go to university. It also insures a home for myself.”
Chapter 2
It was raining as the carriage pulled into London. Charlotte was quite disappointed with the dreary look of the city. The streets were muddy and the wooden sidewalks almost empty. Perhaps the residents of London would reveal themselves when the rain came to a stop. She was shocked as they passed a brothel, the ladies barely dressed and hanging out of the windows. The fresh air of Wales was gone. There was an awful stench in the city. It became better as the carriage entered the outskirts of London. Large estates lined the lane.
The carriage halted before a large white home trimmed in black. Steps led up to a porch spanning the entire front of the house. Tall columns rose to the roof, three floors high. The double doors opened as servants came to unload the carriage and greet the guests. They were guided through a massive entry containing marble topped tables adorned with vases of flowers. Charlotte slowed to stare at the portraits of former Greenwood’s that lined the staircase. Their faces were solemn and intimidating.
Charlotte’s room was light and airy. The bed was covered in a lovely handsewn quilt and the nightstand held a pitcher of fresh water. Emma’s room was across the hallway and just as lovely, though the quilt was in green tones rather than the yellows of Charlotte’s. The servant informed them that Master Greenwood would arrive in time to accompany them to meet Mr. Edward Roberts. They were to rest and food would be brought to their rooms.
Emma napped. The trip had tired her tremendously. Talking of her husband had brought back her sadness at losing him, exhausting her emotionally. Charlotte was unable to sleep. She nibbled at the food provided by the servants, examined every inch of the room, watched the sun peek out from the clouds illuminating the garden, and read the book she had packed.
The servants proved to be most accommodating, preparing baths for both ladies. Charlotte luxuriated in the floral bath oils provided. She was loathe to get out of her bath and endure the rigors of dressing. Emma entered Charlotte’s room fully dressed and coiffed. She was ready to dress Charlotte in her finery. This night, Charlotte would meet her betrothed for the first time.
“Please do not pull the strings so tightly. It hurts and I can not breathe, “Charlotte groaned as Emma helped her into the corset. “I shall swoon at Edward’s feet.”
“That might be a good thing, dear. He would feel quite gratified on believing you found him wonderful enough to swoon, “Emma commented as she tied the corset strings. “You shall have the perfect waist and garner his approval, “Emma brought a beautiful blue dress and slipped it over Charlotte’s head. The blue matched Charlotte’s eyes exactly.
Charlotte gasped as she discovered how low the neckline appeared. She pulled at it and said, “Mother! This is not how the dressmaker fitted this dress. My breasts are going to spill out!”
Emma declared, “I altered the neckline. Edward will swoon himself upon seeing your cleavage. You must show him what a treasure he is getting. He will be wrapped around your finger in no time.”
“What if he takes a strong dislike of me on first sight? Mayhap he prefers tall brunettes. What will I do?”, asked a distraught Charlotte.
Emma sighed, “If that is the case, we will rethink the matter and Edward shall forego a wonderful wife. No more fretting. Your uncle is downstairs.”
Uncle Charles resembled Charlotte’s father in looks and attitude. He was dark haired, tall, and very kind. He welcomed Emma and Charlotte with open arms. The servants brought refreshments for everyone, whiskey for Charles and tea for the ladies. Charlotte could not contain herself. She questioned Uncle Charles, “What is the Roberts family like? Are they stuffy and boring? Will Edward appreciate my education and can I continue to sketch? I shall die if I can not draw!”
Charles was taken aback by all the questions. He held up his hands in surrender saying, “One question at a time please. Let me see, the Roberts family is very refined and quite wealthy. I find some of them to be a slight bore, however others are entertaining and progressive in their thinking. Education, even in a female is to be commended. As to sketching, I can foresee so issue with it. Many young ladies paint for a pastime. Drawing is a variety of that I would think.”
“Will Edward be pleased with me?”, asked an anxious Charlotte.
“I have no doubt that he will find you very pleasing, “replied Charles.
The threesome soon left for Edward’s home. The short carriage ride gave Charlotte no time to panic. Edward’s estate boasted a large stone manor, stables, and a hedge maze. Charlotte was enchanted. The visitors were greeted by a proper butler and shown to a sitting room. More tea was served, along with tiny pink and white cakes.
Edward finally made his entrance. He was tall and lean, with dark curly hair and brown eyes. Over all he appeared handsome. Edward bowed to the ladies, smiled at Charlotte and said, “It is so wonderful to meet you. Your father’s glowing description did not do you justice. You are far lovelier than I expected. “He turned to Emma and exclaimed, “I can see where Charlotte gets her beauty. Madam Greenwood, you are far too young to be her mother. Let us sit and talk. I wish to know you better.”
Charlotte was surprised to see Edward reach for a teacup. All the gentlemen she knew despised tea. They all drank whiskey or on occasion brandy. Even Uncle Charles frowned.
Chapter 3
Edward apologized, “I am sorry for my tardiness. I meant to be here to greet you upon arrival. I regret to admit that I was so enthralled by a display of swords in the gallery of a friend that I forgot the time. I rather enjoy the feel of a good sword in
my hands. The perfectly honed blades and balance of a sword are my passion. I am an excellent swordsman. I shall take you all to an exhibition. You must watch my prowess. It is impressive. Does anyone in your family practice swordsmanship?”
Charlotte waited a moment to be sure Edward had finished his speech and then answered, “My best friend, Ira, has an older brother who is an excellent swordsman. He is in the Royal Navy.”
Edward’s eyes gleamed as he replied, “How wonderful! I should have liked to be in the Royal Navy, however my duties would not allow it. I shall have to settle for challenging my cohorts in exhibitions. After we are married, you shall attend them all. We hold them at least twice a week.”
Charlotte and Emma held back grimaces and Emma stated, “I am sure that they are very entertaining. Charlotte will most likely be too busy managing the household to attend. Surely, these violent exhibitions are no place for a lady.”
Edward appeared shocked at Emma’s statement and said, “The exhibitions are not violent. No one has ever been harmed. As my wife, Charlotte must support my hobbies. There a plenty of servants to see to the household. I insist that she stay at my side.”
Charlotte spoke up quietly, “Edward do you like to read? I adore it.”
“Why yes, I do love to read. Come I will show you the library. “Edward rose and offered his arm to Charlotte. Uncle Charles and Emma followed. The library was so large that Charlotte gasped. The room was two levels tall, with an upper balcony reached by a spiral staircase. Leather backed books lined every inch of shelf space. It was a treasure trove. Comfortable settees and chairs sat in groups throughout the library. Charlotte found the perfect spot to be a chaise located by the fireplace. How she would love to pick a novel from the shelves, sit upon the chaise in front of a roaring fire, and forget about her impending marriage. It was not to be. Edward steered the group away from the comfort of the fireplace to the far corner of the library. He then announced, “Here are the best and most important books I own. “Charlotte was appalled to discover that the books were all about swords and of all things, gardening.”
Bad, Very Bad Shifters- The Complete Mega Bundle Page 71
