The Blue-Eyed Black-Hearted Duke

by Sandra Masters

  “Yes, I can use the refresher. Thank you.” He removed his hand from Jaclyn’s, arose, stretched his legs, and departed in an elated mood, alive and full of hope.

  Chapter Thirty-Two

  A Deceitful Letter Is Delivered

  Wolferton entered his chambers where Halbert waited to assist him. “After you’ve finished with me, fetch the letter on my desk from Halifax addressed to Jaclyn.”

  Halbert did as instructed.

  “I find I need to stay in this tub longer. These past few days I’ve had little sleep and not been in my bed. I’ve become used to such luxuries, probably because in wartime there weren’t many opportunities to soak unless we waded through a cold river in our uniforms. Aye? Those days seem like a lifetime ago.”

  “Perhaps because it was a lifetime ago, Your Grace.”

  “We’ve been together a long time, haven’t we, my friend?” He slipped his shoulders under the water, head back against the rim of the hammered copper tub, and rubbed his neck against the metal as if to wash away a headache or a memory.

  “Aye, sir. You were twenty-one and bought your commission to the army. I was your batman then, as I am now your devoted servant.” He nodded and left the room.

  Wolferton remembered only too well the invaluable service Halbert rendered. It was not an uncommon practice for an officer to have a batman at his disposal. The duties went above and beyond any call of service. Such a person was an enlisted man who received extra pay from a personal account to act as the officer’s valet but was still expected to be with the regiment when in battle and carry out all normal services of his commanding officer. Halbert would be asked to perform many tasks, which included responsibility for luggage, food preparation, and sundry other duties.

  If there was any man Wolferton trusted, Halbert headed the list. Fifteen plus years together had earned them a relationship to cherish, for indeed they were also friends. Halbert knew most of his dark secrets and over the years had performed the difficult task of settlements about his father’s callous affairs and disregard for females. Surely, if Halbert wanted, he could blackmail him, but Wolferton never worried about such a circumstance.

  His man soon returned with the accursed letter and placed it on the large military style bureau, next to the hand mirror. After a moist shave of his master’s stubble, Wolferton became presentable once again. Careful to remain expressionless, he took the letter with him and held it in his hand as he strode to Jaclyn’s room.

  He paused at the open door. “I’m back, sister. Has she awakened again?” With the envelope in hand, he sauntered into the room and placed it by Jaclyn’s bed table. “I’ll leave it here for when she does.”

  “Why not disregard the missive? We’ve been content here without the need to worry about Halifax’s unscrupulous intentions. By the way, Dr. Cleeves will be here soon. He seems like such a nice man.” She arose from the chair and checked Jaclyn’s head. “Her forehead’s not hot, which I take as a good sign.”

  “Most country doctors are for they have ‘oneness’ with their patients. Many have brought new generations into this world. Must be good to know someone you helped birth might be a future deacon, schoolmaster, or perhaps a prime minister!”

  “You aim high, brother.”

  “For what else were the heavens created?”

  Now at Jaclyn’s bedside, he stared at her blissful repose. His gaze then went to the window where storm clouds gathered on the horizon. “Believe we’re in for a bit of rain. It should be good for the crops as long as the wind is not severe.” He turned back toward his sister. “I hope she doesn’t have much memory retention about our conversations. I’m afraid I was indiscreet.”

  “Indiscreet good or indiscreet bad?” asked Camille.

  “I believe both could apply for my words were truthful but imprudent. I spoke as if they were my last comments on earth.”

  “How can the truth hurt if you were sincere?” Camille went to him and extended her hand. He clutched it, and the contact conveyed all he wanted to say but couldn’t. “Let me know when the physician arrives for I have many questions.”

  He released her and descended to his study. Kort, lying beside his desk, raised his head and wagged his tail. The bright sunshine streamed through the stained-glass windows, which caused him to smile at the complacency of the supernatural images.

  Wolferton paused to think about all that occurred in such a short time on the estate. His gaze held the images on the window, and a grayish light streamed through the wolf’s eyes, and then turned more of a grotto blue. “Did you wink?” It became clear to him that the supernatural beings responded to the presence of those they protected. He pondered. That meant if he and Jaclyn were in the country, the city, or wherever the stained-glass pieces were, it activated their beings. “Guess you’re not complacent, after all.” He arose and walked toward the wall. For some unknown reason, a smile stretched across his face. “Yove.” He spoke the silly word. “So, you two guardians know about my feelings for her too. I’m not surprised, but perplexed. What am I to do?”

  A wolf howled and a zing sounded from Golden Boy’s sword.

  “I’ll take those sounds as your approval.” He exhaled, and he turned back to his desk to complete some tasks.

  After an hour of work on the accounts, and research for other issues related to the estate, he needed to stretch his legs and went to the stables to check on the new colt. He greeted the head groom in warmth. “Mother and son are well. I’m most pleased. Has the animal doctor been to visit them?”

  “Aye, Yer Grace. Said they were fit as fiddles. He’ll be a fine addition to the stables.”

  “Good. Saddle my horse. I wish to go for a long ride. Include a blanket roll for me. Inform my sister that I will return in a short time. I’ll be at the top hill.”

  The groom departed and he soon returned with the duke’s favorite horse, Midnight. Wolferton cantered off. As he approached the pinnacle he so loved, he dismounted, tethered the horse to a branch, and spread the woolen cloth on the ground. He leaned back into the tree and gazed over the land. It was a sight to behold for his tired heart. Lush fields aplenty and small stone tenant houses peppered the hillside. The quaint village housed a general mercantile store, a blacksmith shop, an apothecary, and a rural post office, all subsidized by him.

  He had all a man could want, except for two things—peace of mind and Jaclyn. Wolferton pulled a blade of grass, smelled the freshness, chewed on it a while, and then discarded it. The sun was high and warm. He placed his hat on his face and dozed in contentment. The sound of horse hooves awakened him. The major approached with apparent caution and cleared his throat.

  “Don’t tell me, Major. Halbert sent you to check on me.”

  The man dismounted. “He wanted to be sure you didn’t meet up with a rattler, Colonel,” was his jovial reply. “Once a batman always a batman. There are worse things that could happen. I’ve never come this high before. The view is bucolic. Is this a favorite place of yours?”

  Wolferton nodded, partially moved his hat to the side, and lifted his back against the tree, one knee raised. “Seems I have no more secrets.” He blinked. “Have a seat. The tree is wide enough for two.”

  “Don’t mind if I do. Sorry if I interrupted your nap, Colonel. I heard you had little sleep last night. Miss Moreux is up and asks for you.”

  Wolferton arched his left brow one inch. “Women can be a nuisance at times, especially since I am her guardian. Little did I know when I granted her dead father’s request, she’d become a handful.” Of course, he didn’t mean the words the way they came forth, but it deflected the greater concern he had about Jaclyn, which was nobody’s damn business but his own. The accident jolted him since he could have lost her. That thought embattled his heart.

  The major didn’t respond.

  To change the subject, Wolferton asked, “Have you completed the research I requested?”

  “It will be on your desk late this afternoon. After you’ve re
ad it, I can answer any questions you have.”

  Wolferton arose, brushed his jacket, and prepared to mount his horse. “Seems there’s no place a man can hide. I’d best see what the fuss is. Feel free to stay here if you wish, but I’m rested now and will return to the house.”

  “Colonel, if it’s not an imposition, may I accompany you?”

  “How about a gallop?” Wolferton smiled to put the man at ease, and soon they were off. The wind on his face refreshed his body—but the mind was quite another thing.

  Chapter Thirty-Three

  The Hearts Afire

  Jaclyn awakened, disappointed to find Radolf gone from her room. Camille sat in a bedside chair with embroidery in her lap, but her hands were idle. “You’re awake, my dear. It must have been a fright for you to have the horse run away in panic. I don’t know if I could have handled the same situation even though I have equestrian experience.”

  “I’ve heard say if you fall off a horse, the best way to conquer the fear is to get back in the saddle. I don’t know if I’m prepared for another lesson.”

  “It’s not the end of the world if you don’t ride. There are other things to occupy your time. Riding is a men’s sport because of their competitive nature. Most times, we women are just adornments so we can swoon over their accomplishments. Do you fancy a spot of hot tea or cocoa? I’ll ring for the servant.”

  “Sounds lovely. I confess I’m hungry. Perhaps hot tea and a scone with lemon curd or berry preserves will suit.” She remembered the taste of the jam Radolf, her Radolf, preferred. “Is Radolf in the house?”

  Camille smiled. “It’s about time you called him by his given name. No, he’s gone riding. He spent all night at your side, Jaclyn. I’m sure he’s exhausted but won’t admit it.”

  “I’ve caused quite a commotion.” She turned her head to the bedside table and saw an envelope with her name on it. At first, she smiled since it could be from Wolferton, but on closer examination, it wasn’t his distinctive cursive. Jaclyn reached for the letter, opened the seal to find it was from Halifax. She wasn’t in the mood for anything from him. All he ever did was cast doubts in her mind about the man she’d come to love.

  She looked to Camille. “Halifax again.” She returned the letter to the table without a backward glance. “He’s much too persistent and I question his motives.”

  Camille hesitated for a moment. “Whether you realize it or not, Jaclyn, you are quite a catch. Beautiful, articulate, sensitive and with a large dowry to boot, makes you more than attractive.”

  Camille straightened the coverlet on the bed. “The problem with some men is they are not what they seem. All gorgeous on the outside and rotten like three-day-old fish on the inside. Halifax reminds me of such a man. I speak from experience. My brother would like me to marry again, but I don’t need any man. There are times though I envy those who have found true love. The good ones all seem taken. Then, there is always the convent, preferable to being sold in a loveless marriage.” She looked out the window. Two horses were coming down the hill at full speed toward the stables. “I believe Wolferton and the major are returning. At the moment they are neck and neck. Do you feel you can get up and look? The race is almost over.”

  Jaclyn threw off the coverlet, and ran barefoot to Camille’s side, then held her arm for support. Loup ran with her and placed his front paws on the windowsill. “If the major is smart, he’ll let Wolferton win. After all, he’s galloping against the man who employs him.” She sighed when they moved out of sight. “I guess we’ll never know who won.” This was said with tongue-in-cheek humor.

  Camille turned. “I don’t think the major lacks any degree of self-esteem. He strikes me as assured, comfortable in his skin, and wouldn’t hesitate to win the race. After all, he was a soldier.”

  Jaclyn gave her a wry smile. “So you do like the major?” She gave her a delicate pinch.

  “I’m not sure, but he is a man of interest. For what it’s worth, he’s a smooth dancer.”

  “Down, Loup.” Camille commanded the dog, turned Jaclyn around and led her to the bed. “Radolf will be here soon, and he’ll want to make sure the physician has cleared you of bed rest.”

  “Posh, I feel fine.” But her actions belied her words, as she sank deep into the plush pillows.

  One of the kitchen staff brought a tray and placed it on a food cart near the bed. Camille poured the tea and served generous portions of scones with preserves on the plate for Jaclyn whose eyes brightened at the sight.

  She tasted the berries first. “Radolf’s so right. This is a treat.” Jaclyn ate everything on the dish and sipped the fragrant tea until she had consumed two cups. “Now I’m full.”

  “You mustn’t overdo.” Camille straightened Jaclyn’s covers once again. “I’ll wake you if my brother comes to visit you. He’ll probably attend to some paperwork first so take advantage and relax. You’ll feel the better for it.”

  Much as Jaclyn tried, the excitement to see Radolf appealed more than slumber. Day dreams of him occupied her thoughts. She didn’t want him to know the extent of her love for him just yet. He still thought Jaclyn an infatuated schoolgirl, but somewhere deep inside she knew it was so much more. He occupied her every wakeful moment, and then at night her dreams too. She closed her eyes to recall the wonderful way he kissed her and held her so close they were as one. What were her words to him? Were they a silly confession of love unrequited? Dash it all, she couldn’t remember. Loup’s soft snores lulled Jaclyn, and with heavy eyelids, she dozed off with a genteel smile.

  ****

  In his study, Wolferton discussed the project for the equestrian center and the stables. “I’m more than curious, major. When will you have the report ready?” He spoke with impatience, for he wanted to implement whatever was needed. More and more he thought less and less of the London Townhouse he hated. He could use it as an excuse on his part not to return and keep Jaclyn his prisoner? No, she would never be a captive of any man. Her fire, spirit, and her emotion were wrapped in a most delightful package. Balderdash, he could think of a dozen reasons to stay in Hertfordshire.

  The major took his leave, and Wolferton walked toward the stained-glass window. “Any suggestions you have would be appreciated. Dare I proclaim my feelings outright?”

  Wolferton paced in front of the window. The age difference of eighteen years alone would be a deterrent. He had seen too much debauchery, decadence, and dishonesty. One thing he knew for sure was there could be no peace within him as long as she was under his protection, because who would protect Jaclyn from him?

  He fisted his arm toward the ceiling and then to the images in the window, and bellowed, “They claim I’m wicked. I refute the assertion. When there was no knowledge of right or wrong, my role model father painted a pleasurable portrait of sexual and immoral escapades. I am no longer the young man I was, for my battle has been fought and I was victorious then…and now. The beleaguered reputation continues to follow me like a demented accuser. And damned Halifax continues to perpetuate his lies.” He heard the soft howl of the wolf as he left.

  He scowled at the stained-glass window then headed toward the staircase. His mind made up, his demeanor would be cold, aloof and he would disallow any confession of her love for him. His strength of purpose would give him the courage. He inhaled with determination, squared firm shoulders, and entered her room where she lay asleep. Loup lifted his head and then rested it on his paws.

  Wolferton stood at the foot of her bed, hand on his chin, and pondered his dilemma. Jaclyn’s hair was a preponderance of dark curls that framed her high boned cheeks. Wild and gypsy-like even in her sleep, they invited his fingers to touch and race through. His moral strength waned at the sight, but she trusted him.

  Jaclyn opened her dreamlike, violet eyes slowly, and searched his face as if she could read all the thoughts in his mind. The smile drifted into a curl at the corner of her mouth. She spoke not a word.

  “When you look at me with those marvelous e
yes, I’m made aware I’m in the presence of innocence,” were the words he said from his heart. Every single noble thought disappeared, and all he wanted to do was to cradle Jaclyn in his arms. She removed any choice he might have had, and extended both arms to him, the way a lover would. In a natural but clumsy gesture, he rushed to her side, sat on the bed, his weight creaking the mattress, and drew her into his embrace. In the intimate closeness, a long wisp of his hair fell loose across his forehead and draped against his face.

  She withdrew her head a few inches. “My Radolf, the sight of you with your unkempt hair moves me with its splendor. I long to rake my fingers through your burnished locks and…”

  The touch of her hand on his cheek was more than any man should have to bear. He lowered his mouth, sought her lips, and silenced her with a kiss, afraid if she spoke another suggestive word, he’d lose all control. At this moment, he could run away from himself and his desires, but it was an undeniable truth he wouldn’t get far.

  The other underlying reality was he didn’t want to. Could it be it was decreed somewhere in some mystical other-world that Jaclyn was meant to be his? Did the possibility exist that he’d gone through the dark to be worthy of the light?

  He banked his lust—for the moment, saved by his regard for her maiden’s virtue, but who would save him from himself?

  Chapter Thirty-Four

  The Half-Truths

  Jaclyn moved away from Radolf, conscious of his stark gaze upon her, and touched her fingers to her lips to see if they were as molten as they felt. Her maiden fears were scorched away by the constant hunger that pooled at the juncture of her legs. All else became unimportant except for the fire that stole her breath. “Why do you deny your goodness? You have protected me all my life.”

  A bark of mock laughter escaped his lips.

  Scoundrel, indeed he was scandalous, dangerous, and marvelous. His footsteps ricocheted off the floor, echoed louder on the marble corridor and then faded. He was gone without an answer to her.