Cole nodded, and Koryn sighed, “I needed to mourn my husband, and my brother. It was not a good time for us, and I spoiled Katarina too much. My husband always doted on her, gave her everything she wanted, even though he never let her act the way she did. Katarina was always on her best behavior for my husband because it was how he expected her to act. I tried hard to live up to his legacy. So, I also gave her everything. But I know now that I should have been harsher than I was. Should have put my foot down, like he did, but I just didn’t know how to. Not when she was grieving as much as I was. And I did what I could.”
She let out a sob and Cole felt badly for her but stayed put. “I finally needed to do something besides grieve for my husband and decided to put Katarina out into society. She was old enough and begged for it yearly. She had many offers from men the very first season. But she would settle for no one less than a Duke. And she had it in her head that since her cousin was a Duke now, that she would do what was necessary to have him be her husband. I tried to talk her out of it at first, but I knew it was easier to just give in. But Aidan never came to society or the functions there. So, each season that passed made her more and more desperate. She finally came up with the plan to host our ball at Aidan’s house, and we set it in motion. She needed to get close to him and that was the only way to do it.”
Koryn sighed, and kept going, “And when we got to your estate, I grew power hungry. Remembering how great it was to be a Duke’s daughter and have everything handed to me on a silver platter. It was the same with Katarina and though everything was to our liking, Kat always wanted more. Needed more. I felt as though I needed it too. And I kept following her plan. And came up with some of my own. Like when we crashed your dinner party and treated Aidan’s wife so harshly. I could hear myself saying those things, and I didn’t want to say them. I felt horrible after I did, but I couldn’t stop it, it felt too good. I am so ashamed of my behavior toward them. I just wanted my daughter to be happy and I would do what I thought was best. How my husband would have been ashamed of my behavior. He was the one who taught me that I was spoiled, told me that I didn’t need to act that way to get what I wanted and made certain I never acted like that again, and though he spoiled Katarina, he never let her act like she did. It just happened after his death. It hurt her more than she ever let on and I am ashamed. I couldn’t handle her, and my grief. But I did her a disservice. She could have had a wonderful life years ago but wanted the world. I tried to give it to her and hate what I became because I wanted to be the best mother I could have.”
She was crying, tears sliding down her face as she told her story. “And yet another thing happened that I am ashamed of. I knew of Edward’s child since he was born and felt for him. My father never acknowledged his existence. It was hard on Edward, but I understand why my father never acknowledged him. He was certainly Edward’s son. And before we left, Braddock reached out to us and since Katarina knew that he could be the duke if Aidan ever died or decided to give it up, then she was happy to have either him or Aidan as her husband. I didn’t know what his plan was, he said that all he wanted was to get in the house and speak with you. That was all. And I still don’t know what he did, but I haven’t seen him or anything since we have gotten back.”
Cole looked at her, “He is dead.” Koryn gasped, “He is? Oh, oh my god. Will you tell me what happened?” Cole sighed, “He believed that he was supposed to hold the title. And thought that he should kill us all to accomplish his goal. He shot me in the shoulder, Aidan in the arm and tried to do more. He was killed. That is all you need to know.”
Koryn nodded, “I am sorry Cole. I didn’t know. I truly didn’t. And I know this doesn’t help anyone, but I am sorry about Edward as well. I wanted to say something, because he knew that I knew he was different. But he threatened to kill either my husband or my daughter if I told anyone, and I believed him. He was not a good man. And wouldn’t have hesitated to kill them. But I do hate that Jacob is still in the prison. I couldn’t get in contact with him, after I found out about the switch. I wanted to, but again Edward would have none of it. He made certain that I wouldn’t do anything, coming to my house and letting me know in no uncertain terms that I was not to interfere. I agreed with his wishes. And then with everything, I didn’t think about him. I didn’t know what to do for him and couldn’t get him out,”
Cole snarled again, “So you just left him in there? Didn’t say anything to anyone after Edward’s death and let Jacob continue to be punished for the crimes of his brother?”
Koryn let out a sob. “I am sorry. I am. My life ended with my husband’s death. You don’t even understand. He was my everything in a grey world. He was the only one who didn’t let me act the way I did my entire life. He knew that wasn’t really me and told me so. He loved me. And I loved him. I lost my world when he died and returned to the woman I hated. The one who let innocent people get hurt. Who hurt innocent people. Who didn’t try to get her brother out of prison because she could barely survive day by day. I tried to do what I could Cole and I am sorry that I didn’t do more. I couldn’t. I still can’t. I wish I was dead. My daughter is gone who knows where, turning into someone I don’t even know anymore. I am sorry Cole. I am so sorry.”
She broke down into sobs and Cole sighed, he walked to where she was sitting and dropped to his haunches in front of her. “I am sorry too Koryn. What can I do for you? To help you?”
She looked down at him, “Will you just tell me one thing?”
Cole nodded and Koryn asked, “Is Katarina still alive? Will you tell me what happened to her? She tried to get me to come along with her schemes, but I couldn’t. Not anymore. I was done. She was too far gone, and I couldn’t let myself be the person I was.”
Cole sighed, “She had my wife kidnapped along with my sister Lily and another woman. She planned to sell them to someone in India and would have gotten away with it had she taken hostage on any other boat.”
Koryn covered her mouth and she let out another sob. “She did that? Oh Katarina. What have you done?”
Cole sighed, “We are just lucky we found them again. But Katarina is not ever coming back here. I hope you know that Koryn.”
Koryn nodded, “I know. Where is she?”
Cole looked up at her, “Do you truly wish to know?”
Koryn nodded again, “I do.”
Cole shook his head, “She was sent to a colony that is mainly for prisoners and other criminals. She won’t be able to get back.”
Koryn let out another sob. “My daughter used to be a wonderful girl. At least around my husband. But she must have had some of my brother in her after all. She was so vindictive and I am ashamed of us both. I know she brought this on herself, her choices made us who we were and who she is. But I will miss her. I will never see her marry or have grandchildren.”
Cole sighed, “I am sorry for that Koryn. But you understand where we are coming from.” Koryn nodded, “I do understand Cole. I just need a moment to wrap my head around all of your revelations.”
Cole said, “What do you want in life now Koryn? Do you want to stay here or start over somewhere else?”
Koryn looked down at him again, tears sliding down her cheeks. “I would never come back here again. I just want to live a quiet life all alone. Somewhere no one knows my name. Or of my misdeeds. I want to be the woman I was when my husband was alive.”
Cole nodded, “That works for me. I know that Aidan said you were cut off, but I will tell him of our conversation, and you will be given the money you should have. I will also tell you that we have acquired a small cottage in Scotland. It is unused but if you wish it, it is yours.”
Koryn gave him a smile, one full of hope. “Truly Cole? Even though I have been so horrible and so has Katarina? You would give me this?”
He nodded, “I think you deserve to live in peace. That you should have the life you want and not live in this hovel. You agree that Katarina was awful and did wrong. And I appreciate that. I also fo
rgive you for not saying anything about Edward.”
Koryn sighed, and she leaned forward and hugged him. “Thank you, Cole. If you need anything, any information about Jacob, I can do my best to help. Will you tell me if you found him?”
Cole nodded, “I will. Pack your things, I will send the carriage for you and you can start over. Live the life you wanted. Be safe Koryn and have a great life.”
She smiled at him and he gave her a quick hug. “Thank you. Tell everyone how sorry I am. And tell Aidan congratulations on his wedding. Congratulations on yours as well. I am happy for you both. Rhia was truly so beautiful and I loved that Aidan found someone who loved him. I am just sorry I acted the way I did. It was horrible of me and I regret it. More than you know.”
Cole smiled and stood. “I know you do Koryn. Thank you. Aidan will be happy to know of your words.”
Then he walked out of the flat and down to his carriage. He felt horrible that Koryn had gone through so much. No one had understood how hurt she had been. And he hated that. But he would help her now. Give her the life she longed for even if it wasn’t the one, she always thought she needed. At least she knew that and figured it out. He knew Katarina had been too far gone. And it was regretful. He hoped that one day she would feel sorry for her choices, but it didn’t matter. She was gone and he was grateful to never have to worry again.
Cole had one more errand to run before he got back to his wife. Directing the carriage to Eden’s house, Cole was tense as he got closer to Eden’s childhood home. She would never come back here ever again, but Cole needed to tell Sterling that.
He knocked on the door after getting out of his carriage and waited. The door opened to reveal the man servant, Herbert that had helped Eden. The man’s eyes widened, and he opened the door to let Cole inside the house.
“Is Sterling home?” The man nodded and Cole said, “Lead the way then.”
He followed the man into the office and saw Sterling sitting in a chair, his face black and blue. When Sterling looked up through his one good eye that was somewhat open, it widened as much as it could. Sterling stood and rushed over to Cole, his fists raised as if to punch Cole.
“What are you doing here? Where is my sister? Her husband is still awaiting her.”
Cole shook his head, “Her husband is standing in front of you. She and I married weeks ago. You will never see her again. Your selfishness and evil ways made it so she will never come back. She is my wife now and as such has become a Marchioness. You will never touch her again.”
Sterling paled, “But he will kill me. He paid for her virginity and her hand, and if he doesn’t get her, he will kill me.”
Cole shrugged, “That isn’t my problem. I am just letting you know that not only is Eden my wife, she and I consummated our marriage and she is with child. She is useless to your schemes now.”
Sterling shook his head, shame overcoming his features. “She always was useless. Now she is going to get me killed.”
Cole snarled, “She has never been useless. That would be you. You brought it on yourself. If you ever come near my wife again, I will kill you myself.”
Sterling threw a punch at Cole, which Cole easily dodged, but Sterling couldn’t just let it be. “You took her from me! I am her rightful guardian, you had no right to marry her without my permission. I will bring this in front of the judges.”
Cole’s eyes narrowed, “I hope you do. She is my wife by right and is having my child. You cannot take her from me now. You don’t get to sell your sister just to have a better life for yourself you selfish bastard. No wonder Eden was so unhappy. She is most wonderful woman in the world and you couldn’t just see that when she was here. I am glad I took her from you. Because while you may not have seen her for who she truly is, I did. But I am warning you now, if you ever come near my wife, I will kill you.”
Sterling sneered at Cole. “You won’t do anything to me. You have never done anything of note and probably don’t even know how to wield a blade. Don’t try to frighten me. It won’t work. I will be coming for my sister, just you wait.”
Cole grabbed his knife from his boot so fast Sterling didn’t even see it until Cole held it to Sterling’s throat. “Do you understand me now when I say not to touch my wife ever again? I am not frightened of any of your empty threats. But trust me when I say this Sterling, I will not hesitate to use this blade, or many others I have at my disposal to kill you. My threats are not empty. Stay away from Eden, and you will keep your life. Do I make myself perfectly clear?”
Sterling swallowed hard and nodded, Cole moved his knife away from Sterling’s throat. “Good,”
Then he turned and walked out, telling Herbert that he needed him to come work for his household.
Herbert smiled and told Cole that he would be honored to serve for him and that he would come in the afternoon.
Cole left the house, smiling the entire time. Grateful that it was over now.
When he got back to the house, he called Aidan over and asked if they could talk in his office. Aidan gave him a funny look but followed him. When Cole had shut and locked the door, he turned to his brother.
He told him of his conversation with Koryn and all the things that had been revealed. At first, Aidan was mad. He started pacing and swearing under his breath, but after Cole explained why Koryn did what she did, Aidan calmed. He was happy with Cole’s decision about sending Koryn to Scotland and Cole was relieved.
“Thank you, Cole. I appreciate it, and you. Let’s go find our wives though, shall we? I think the next few days are going to be difficult on us.”
Cole nodded, and he walked out of the room to his future. He told Eden of his little visit to her brother’s home and she paled when she heard Sterling’s threats, but Cole reassured her that her brother would never come near her again.
She was relieved about that, and Cole was grateful he could make it so. He kissed his wife softly and let her know how much he loved her. She melted into his arms and told him the same. His life and future was bright indeed.
Epilogue
Burk
Whitechapel, England Nov 1812
Burk walked around his room, restless. He was keyed up, his body strung tight.
He knew why but hated the reason. He was frustrated that he had to be separated from Lily right now.
She needed him, like he needed her. And she wasn't here.
Burk needed to punch something, to get his frustration out, so he stripped down to his breeches, stretched his muscles a bit, then started in on one of the punching bags they had in their boxing salon.
He was in a rhythm, his body warm and finally letting off the stress from the last month.
He felt a tap on his shoulder and paused. He turned to see Brooks standing behind him, dressed in the same way he was. “Care to hit something that will give you a real fight?”
Brooks said and Burk nodded. “I need this tonight, and I won't be gentle or polite.”
Brooks snorted. “Have you forgotten I know you Burk? Your tricks, what makes you upset, everything?”
Burk snorted. “No, I haven't forgotten Brooks. I just give you fair warning.”
Brooks laughed, “Good, I need this as much as you.”
Burk sobered for a minute. “You are right. Don't hold back.”
Brooks grinned, and they got in the ring. There was no one around, just the two of them, like old times.
Bare knuckle boxing at its finest. Neither would leave the ring looking pretty. That was a certainty.
And even though Brooks wasn't as tall as Burk, he held his own. Each fairly matched to the other person.
They never knew who would win when they fought, which made them so unpredictable. And that was why they were so popular when they fought.
They were spectacular to watch, and Burk cracked his knuckles and his neck.
His body was warm from his earlier work out, but he needed this too. Brooks was swinging his arms back and forth and rolling his neck.
&nbs
p; He put his fists up, and Burk did the same. Burk took the first swing and missed. Brooks didn't.
He landed a blow on Burk's shoulder, and Burk wanted to grunt. Brooks had a hard punch.
With that punch, they started fighting out right. Burk got in a punch here, Brooks there and by the time Burk was slammed onto the mat, they both had black eyes, blood streaming from their noses, and Brooks had a split lip.
Burk lay on the hard mat and tried to control his breathing. Brooks dropped down next to him, breathing just as hard.
Burk held his hand out, and Brooks shook it. “Good fight, we needed that.”
Brooks snorted, “I know we did. You have been moping about the gym since we got off the ship. Lily needs time Burk. She was mad at you before she got kidnapped. Did she change her mind on the ship about her feelings for you?”
Burk was quiet for a moment, “She loves me Brooks. I know she does. She just needs to see it.”
Brooks laughed, “Did you not hear me? I thought she was never going to acknowledge your existence. Not before she got taken. And now? You think she loves you?”
Burk glared at his brother. “I know Brooks. She didn’t want anything to do with me. She is afraid of my reputation. But she has never given me the chance to explain it to her. Not once. And on the ship, she talked to me. Told me some of her darkest secrets, and she kissed me. Well, I kissed her. But, still.”
Brooks laughed again, “Well, if you think she will hear you out, I wish you all the best. Lily is your perfect woman. That is for sure.”
Burk smiled, “I just want to have her finally see it.”
Burk sat up and helped Brooks to his feet. “I am going to see her in the morning. I have given her two days. I can’t wait any more.”
Brooks punched him lightly on the arm, “Good luck, you will need it. Sorry about your face. I hope she won’t mind the bruises.”
The Marquess Who Adored Me Page 30
