Lady Overton's Perilous Journey (Honorable Rogue Book 1)

by Vikki Vaught

  Harry tore off his clothes and made a mad dash for the water as he called to her, “Hurry, Mama.” Before she had a chance to caution him, he jumped in, sending jets of water high in the air. When his head broke the surface, his laughter rang out.

  After she removed her habit, leaving her clad in her shift, she eased down into the pond and the cool water caressed her bare arms. They splashed around for a good hour then glancing at the position of the sun, she realized it must be close to the noon hour.

  She called to her son, “Time to get out. You go first, and when you are dressed, close your eyes while I get out.”

  “Ah, Mama. Do we have to?”

  “Mrs. Allen is expecting us to return for the midday meal, so yes, it is necessary, young man. No arguing.”

  Harry scrambled out and pulled on his clothes. Once he had his back to her, she climbed out and donned her riding habit. With the sun blazing down on the earth, and the heat even worse than earlier, her underclothes would dry by the time they made it back to the house. She saw a tree stump nearby and led Buttercup over to it. After placing Harry in front of the saddle, she took her position behind him, and they headed back to Meadow Grove. Since the property lay on the edge of town, she should make it back to the house without anyone seeing her in her disheveled state of dress.

  When Anissa arrived back at the house, she hurried upstairs, then changed into a clean gown and combed out her damp hair from its chignon. After braiding her damp locks, she pinned it around her head. Once they had changed into dry clothes, they went downstairs for luncheon.

  She decided to explore the attic, so once they had finished their meal, she led Harry up the stairs and spent the afternoon going through old trunks and boxes, looking for things for Harry to play with. She found a complete set of wooden soldiers, an old train set, and a ball. She also found a child’s rocking horse and a table and chairs. She had Mr. Allen bring them down to Harry’s room.

  Once she finished going through everything in the attic, she wiped her sweaty brow and her fingers came away covered in dust and dirt. Harry looked hot and dirty as well. She took him to the bathing room off the kitchen, wiped off his face and hands, then sent him outside to play with Barney and the ball they had found. After Harry went outside, Lucy had enough water heated, and Anissa took a relaxing bath. As she soaked in the tub, she allowed her mind to wander. Soon, her mind wandered to Alex and the kiss they had shared in the stables.

  Why did he kiss me?

  Surely it means he has feelings for me.

  Settling her head against the rim, she closed her eyes, and the sensations she had felt when he kissed her, washed over her. She imagined Alex touching her as he had on the ship and passion rose up strong. She sat up quickly, sloshing water over the side of the tub and onto the floor. Heat rushed to her cheeks. If he returned and kissed her again, she might not be able to resist him. She tried to turn her thoughts to Kendall and bring forth his dear face, but all she could picture was Alex in the stables, right before he lowered his head to kiss her.

  While a fierce attraction existed between them, nothing could ever come of it. She lowered her head and wept, crying out her anguish as the water turned cool. Wiping the tears away with the back of her hand, she stood, then reached for a towel and stepped out of the tub. She refused to give in to the doldrums any longer. She must be stronger than that.

  The next two days, Anissa set up a pattern. She tutored Harry in the morning and then took him to the pond to swim after luncheon. She tried to focus on her son instead of Alex, but no matter how hard she tried, thoughts of him intruded on her day, and the nights were torture. She could fight off the wayward thoughts during the day, but she had no control over her dreams.

  Wednesday afternoon, Anissa arranged for Harry to have an early supper. Lucy agreed to watch him, so she could go to the reception for Senator Nicholas. Once she had her son settled, she opened her wardrobe and pulled out the silvery blue dinner gown Georgia had helped her make. The lovely gown had tiny puffed sleeves and silver ribbons tied below her bosom.

  When she looked at the mirror, her lips pursed and her brow furrowed. The bodice felt tighter than when she had finished the dress and her hips filled out the gown more than they had. Lucy’s good cooking was not helping her figure. If she did not watch it, she would end up as plump as a powder pigeon. She needed to be more cautious in what she ate in the future and do without the cook’s delicious lemon cakes.

  At half past seven, Anissa heard a carriage pull up in front of the house and picking up her paisley shawl, went outside. The coachman helped her in, and she took her seat across from Mrs. Moore and a young girl.

  Mrs. Moore gave a warm smile. “Good evenin’, Mrs. Carlson. You look charming tonight. Let me introduce you to my daughter, Melissa.”

  “It’s so nice to meet you,” she replied. “Please call me Anissa. I hope we can become friends.” Then directing her attention back to Mrs. Moore, she added, “Thank you again for inviting me this evening. I have been looking forward to attending the reception and of course, seeing you again, Mrs. Moore.”

  “Please, use my given name, Mary Lou. If we’re going to be friends, there is no need for such formality. Now, let me tell you about some of the people you’ll meet tonight.”

  Mary Lou told Anissa about the neighbors she would meet. She also gave her some valuable insight into Washington society. Even though the Americans did not use titles, there was definitely distinction between the classes. Anissa rarely had problems fitting in and looked forward to the reception with great anticipation.

  When the carriage arrived at the Ramsey estate, a footman helped the ladies out and up the steps. They entered a vestibule, where Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey greeted them warmly.

  After the introduction to Senator Nicholas and his daughter, Alice, they made their way along the rest of the receiving line. Anissa and her new friends entered the ballroom. Large chandeliers filled with hundreds of beeswax candles lit up the room, casting a glow over the colorful array of evening gowns worn by the women. The ladies gathered in groups chatting, while gentlemen in formal evening attire stood around talking. For a moment, she felt transported back to London, until she heard a man speak to Mary Lou in his slow southern drawl.

  Mary Lou gave the gentleman a brilliant smile. “Charles, how wonderful to see you. I didn’t realize you had returned from Richmond. Please let me introduce you to Mrs. Carlson. She’s visiting from England. Georgia Hawks has generously offered her the use of Meadow Grove for a few months.” Then looking at Anissa, she continued, “This is my dear friend, Colonel Latham.”

  Smiling, Anissa accepted the colonel’s outstretched hand. “It is lovely to meet you, Colonel Latham.” The colonel was a tall, distinguished-looking, older gentleman with snowy white hair and a neatly trimmed mustache. His warm greeting to Mary Lou made her wonder if they were romantically involved.

  He bowed low over her hand. “The pleasure’s all mine, Mrs. Carlson. Have you had a chance to visit Washington City since you arrived in America?”

  Looking up at Colonel Latham, she replied, “Captain Hawks was kind enough to give me a brief tour of your nation’s capital when he brought me to Alexandria. I’m most impressed with the president’s residence.”

  “What made you decide to visit America, Mrs. Carlson?” the colonel asked.

  Remembering the reason Alex gave Mary Lou, she replied, “I lost my husband last year and wanted to get away. Since I have always wanted to visit your country, I chose America. My late husband greatly admired many of your country’s principles and had talked about us coming for a visit, so in some ways I’m fulfilling one of his wishes.”

  By this time, the orchestra began to tune up and Colonel Latham asked, “Would you care to stand up with me, ma’am?”

  “I would be delighted to.” Turning to her friend, Anissa asked, “Do you mind?”

  “Not at all, my dear,” Mary Lou replied. “Please go. Enjoy yourself. I see my friend, Helen Johnston, ac
ross the room. I haven’t talked to her in an age. I’ll see you after your dance.”

  While Colonel Latham guided her through the simple country-dance, she enjoyed herself immensely and found the colonel an excellent partner. When he returned her to Mary Lou’s side, several other gentlemen approached. She ended up with a partner for every dance until the ceremony honoring Senator Nicholas commenced. After the festivities, everyone enjoyed refreshments, and the dancing started again. She even danced with the Senator.

  By the end of the evening, Anissa had met several other women, and they had invited her to their homes. They promised to come see her as well. She had enjoyed the evening, and when she took her leave of Mary Lou and Melissa, she thanked them again for allowing her to attend the reception with them.

  The next two days passed quickly, since several of the ladies she had met at the reception came to call. She still spent her mornings tutoring Harry, but she had not taken him to the pond since the ladies began visiting during the afternoons. She found Alice Nicholas delightful company, and since they were close in age, they had much in common.

  The nights were troubling because she had erotic dreams filled with images of Alex making love to her. She awoke damp between her thighs with her private spot aching. Guilt ate at her. After all, Kendall had not been gone a year yet, and any liaison between her and Alex could only be temporary. This preyed on her mind a great deal. She could never enter into an affair—her principles would never allow that. She had abhorred the behavior of so many of the widows in London and had vowed to never give in to her passions as they did. Thank goodness, Alex did not mention plans to visit any time soon.

  * * * *

  The morning after his return to Baltimore, Alex met with Reynolds and began negotiating a fair price for the tobacco and cotton they needed for their next voyage. After several annoying meetings over the next few days, they finally came to an agreement. If all went well with their next runs, the company would make a tidy profit indeed.

  The Renegade was almost ready to go to sea again, but with Bridges as captain instead of him. Even though he wanted to stay home with Melanie and his family, he would miss the sea.

  While he kept busy in the day, his thoughts did not dwell on Anissa, but the nights were a different story. His dreams showed him making love to her, and each morning he awoke with a cockstand. He had gone back to see Carla, but when he tried to have sex with her, images of Anissa flashed through his mind.

  As he made his way home from another failed attempt to bed Carla, he began to obsess over Anissa’s safety. He tried to resist the temptation to go to her, but failed miserably. By Friday morning, he had convinced himself he needed to go to Alexandria. After meeting with Bridges, he took to the road by noon.

  He arrived at Meadow Grove shortly before eight. When he dismounted, Harry ran to him with his arms wide open. He scooped the child up in his arms and ruffled his hair. “Ah, my young friend. Have you been behavin’ for your mama?”

  “Yes, sir,” he replied, “but it’s been boring. It’s been days since Mama took me to the pond. She’s too busy with her new friends. I didn’t know you were coming. Mama never mentioned it.”

  Carrying Harry on his shoulders, Alex went up the porch steps and set the boy down on the surface, then opened the front door. “She didn’t know. Shall we go find her?”

  Harry folded his arms across his chest and furrowed his brow. “Mama isn’t here. She left for a party at some old senator’s house. I told you she’s too busy for me.”

  Obviously, Anissa had settled in well, if she was attending parties at the senator’s home. “I’m sure your mama isn’t too busy for you. She’s just enjoying some time with adults. Come on, let’s go to the kitchen. Perhaps Lucy has something to eat. I’m starving.”

  After enjoying one of Lucy’s superb suppers, he took Harry outside and they played for thirty minutes, then he took the child inside to Lucy.

  At loose ends, he wandered into the library to find a book. Settling into one of the wing back chairs in front of the fireplace, he tried to concentrate, but found himself staring at the same page for half an hour. He poured a glass of whiskey to help calm his nerves and his rioting thoughts. He had made a grave mistake in coming to Alexandria. He would have to muddle through the weekend somehow, now that Harry and Lucy knew he had come.

  Shortly after ten, he heard the front door open and went into the hall. Anissa looked startled when she saw him and asked, “When did you arrive? I did not know you were coming.” Then fear escalated her voice, “Oh, Lord, has Lord Howard arrived already?”

  He moved over to her and gazed into her frightened eyes. “No. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. I wanted to make sure you were settling in. Harry told me you’ve been busy with ladies coming to call. He’s a bit put out with you. He told me you only have time to make him study.”

  Anissa looked at him with worry written across her face. “Oh dear, I did not realize he looked at it that way. I shall have to spend more time with him. I do not want him to feel neglected. How long are you staying?”

  “Only a couple of days. I have to be back on Monday. Bridges leaves for England on Tuesday. Why don’t we take Harry to Harrison’s pond tomorrow? From talking to him earlier this evenin’, I think he would enjoy going.”

  As she bit her bottom lip, desire pierced his loins. He had almost forgotten how beautiful she was. She looked particularly fetching tonight with her hair piled high on her head and deep, golden tendrils curling around her face.

  “It has been several days since I took him. We can have Lucy pack a lunch. We will have a busy day tomorrow, so I think I shall turn in.”

  “After my grueling trip today, I’m exhausted myself. Let me escort you to your room.” After he dropped her off at her door, he continued down the hall to his chamber. When he entered, he leaned back against the door and sighed. Coming here had been a bad idea. It reminded him of how much he wanted her, and not just sexually—he craved her delightful company as well.

  Alex made up his mind to keep amorous thoughts away during his time with her tomorrow. Surely they could be friends without letting the other get in the way. After all, he was a grown man, not some green boy who gave in to his urges without thought of the consequences.

  Exhausted, he shed his clothes and fell into bed. At least now, he knew she was safe and seemed content. When he went back to Baltimore, he would not have to worry over her. He punched his pillow and settled in, then closed his eyes and went to sleep.

  Alex woke up the next morning somewhat later than usual, but feeling more refreshed than he had in the last week. After shaving, he headed downstairs to the dining room, hoping he would not be too late for breakfast. Upon entering, he found Anissa and Harry finishing their meal.

  Lucy came bustling into the room with a big smile on her face. “Cap’n, I’ll have ya some breakfast shortly. Jus’ take a seat and let me pour ya a cup o’ coffee while I gets it for ya.”

  “Thank you, Mrs. A. I do believe I’ll do that.” Taking a seat at the head of the table, he took a sip of the hot coffee. “Mrs. A, nobody makes coffee like you.” Looking over at Anissa, he asked, “How are you this mornin’? It looks like it’s going to be another hot one today.” Glancing at Harry, he added, “A perfect day for swimming at Harrison’s pond, would you not agree, young man?”

  Harry piped up, “Yea, I can’t wait to go. Will you let me ride with you?”

  “Certainly, my friend.” Alex smiled. He was beginning to love this exuberant child. “You know, it’s time you learned to ride. After I eat, I’ll go over to Marshall’s Livery and find a suitable pony for you.”

  The boy bounded out of his seat and ran around the table. “Can I come with you, Captain?”

  Anissa interjected, “Harry, be patient. I’m sure the captain can find a pony without you being a nuisance.”

  “He’s fine, Anissa. It’s not every day a young man gets his first mount. I’ll be happy to take him, if it’s all ri
ght with you?”

  Harry bounced up and down on his toes, waiting for his mother to give her answer. “Oh, I suppose, but you make sure you mind the captain, young man.”

  Once Alex finished his breakfast, he took the child to Marshall’s. As it turned out, the livery had a pony that was perfect for him and after negotiating a fair price, Alex and Harry headed back to the house with the pony following behind them.

  Chapter Eleven

  By eleven o’clock, the boy had a good grasp on riding, and after Alex saddled up Buttercup for Anissa, they headed to the lake. Alex tethered the pony to his horse, but he let Harry stay in the saddle as they made their way to the pond.

  As soon as they arrived, Alex and Harry threw off their jackets, and with a flying leap, hit the water with a yell. Anissa laid out the blanket, set the picnic basket down, and joined them at the side of the pond. She took off her half boots and stockings then dangled her feet and ankles in the water.

  In a challenging voice, Alex called out, “Aren’t you goin’ to join us? I know you’ve been swimming with Harry. Come on, don’t be so missish. You can keep your shift on.”

  “Oh, I suppose. I do not want you to think I’m a coward. Turn around, and you better not peek, either one of you.” Anissa hurriedly removed her dress and taking a run, jumped into the water. With her hands, she pushed through the water toward her son, splashing him in the face. Harry roared with laughter and splashed her back. The three of them romped around in the pond, dunking each other and having a riotous good time.

  After playing for a while, Alex said, “I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for the picnic Mrs. A packed. Anissa, we’ll turn our backs and you can get out first. I promise we won’t peek.”

  As hard as it was, he turned his back. He had a devil of a time keeping his mind away from Anissa’s wet shift molding her glorious breasts. The wet fabric showed her darkened nipples and his imagination ran wild.