A Decade of Longing

Evernight Publishing www.evernightpublishing.com

Copyright© 2011 Elyzabeth M. VaLey

ISBN: 978-1-927368-01-5

Cover Artist: LF Designs Editor: JC Chute

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews. This is a work of fiction. All names, characters, and places are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

DEDICATIO) To my sister: Ha! and Thank You.

A DECADE OF LO)GI)G Elyzabeth M. VaLey Copyright © 2011

Chapter One Her lips quivered for a moment before settling into a stunning smile. He raised his eyes from her full lips. With a sigh, he turned around, concealing himself behind the large Greek-inspired column. How he longed to go to her and sweep her into his arms. A waiter passed by and offered him a drink. Accepting with a nod, he took the opportunity to turn around and look at her again. Her hair hung loose below her shoulders in soft brown curls, highlighted with golden tresses. Her lips curved into a smile of greeting as she waved at a friend. She stood tall, regal even, as she made her way across the room saluting acquaintances. However, even as she went about her duties, her eyes constantly scanned the room as if searching for something––or someone. He knew what she was seeking. She stopped to chat to someone, turning her back on him. It was time. He stepped away from the column and made his way towards her. As if sensing his presence, she turned around, her eyes locking with his, her acquaintance forgotten. Neither of them moved. He noticed as her smile faded, her lips parted slightly, and her chest rose as she drew a deep breath. He moved towards her purposely. She turned to her friend and excused herself, then hurried forward. They both stopped at the same time, barely two steps away from one another. He bowed low and she automatically curtsied. He hid a grin and straightened to his full height––she never forgot her manners. “Alexander.”

“Alexander Huntington,” he interjected. “My dear lady, such a pleasure to see you.” She smiled politely as he took her hand and brushed it against his lips. “Perhaps you would like to dance?” he asked, not releasing her hand. “No, thank you, sir.” Alexander had felt elation at hearing her whisper his name. She had not forgotten him. Even when he interrupted her, giving her his new name; despite her initial rebuff, when he had felt as if a thousand little needles had pierced through his heart simultaneously, Alexander knew she was aware of him. The thought urged him to pursue her. “Please, my lady. I insist. I hear you are a marvelous dancer.” He would not take no for an answer. He refused to surrender—not after so long, not after all he had gone through. He hadn’t meant to bring up the past so soon. The way she paled when he mentioned her dancing skills confirmed that he shouldn’t have. Still, he could not help smiling in earnest at the thought of the graceful way in which she moved on the polished ballroom floor. When she nodded in acquiescence, he couldn’t believe his luck. Afraid she would run away, he did not release his hold on her hand. He had to have her near. Together they moved toward the dance floor. Couples moved to the final notes of a gay tune. They waited for the next piece. Alex heard her gasp as a slow melody began to play. He smiled to himself. This would enable them to talk. Taking her by the waist, he led their movements. “Look at me, Angelica,” Alex asked softly. She avoided his eyes. He saw her discomfort, and part of him knew that maybe it was better if he released her; if he forgot about her, just like he should have done long ago. The other part of him refused to give up, knowing what they had once shared was still alive. With tenderness, he released her waist and lifted her chin. For barely a moment their eyes met. In haste, she looked down again and curtsied. The song was nowhere near over, but she ran off nonetheless. Alex bowed and watched in a daze as she went. A pair of dancers collided against him, snapping him back to reality. He followed her. He knew. He had seen. After ten years, he could still read her eyes and know her heart.

As he approached the room she had entered, he heard her stifled sobs. “Angelica.” She moaned in distress. “Angelica.” “Please, go away, Alex,” she whispered. “Let me in.” He pushed at the door in an attempt to get in. She pushed back, but he managed to open it enough to slide in. Once inside, he locked the door behind them so they wouldn’t be bothered. “Angelica,” Alex whispered. The room was pitch black. He could hear her sobs, but did not want to go near her––at least, not until she calmed down. “Go away, Alex.” “No.” “You have nothing to do here.” “Yes, I do.” Alexander couldn’t take it anymore; he hated to see her like this. Following the sound of her sobs, he took her into his arms before she could protest. For a second, he felt her body stiffen at his touch before it relaxed and fell limp against him. She hid her face in his chest, her heart-wrenching tears falling onto his shirt. “Shhhh, my angel. Shhhh.” Alex pressed her harder against him. His heart raced, both for the anguish at seeing Angelica in such distress, and the happiness of being able to hold her in his embrace again. After a few minutes, she relaxed and pushed him away. He did not budge. She pushed him again and he reluctantly released his hold on her. Angelica stepped away and he heard her take in a shaky breath. Alexander waited patiently as she fumbled in the darkness, looking for a match to light some candles. “Here,” he offered, his voice breaking the penetrating silence. Angelica took his lighter and illuminated the lamps. “Angelica.” “No.” Angelica turned around to face him. “Listen to me, Alexander,” she whispered. “I don’t care why you’re here…I don’t care what you’ve come to do…I don’t care that you’ve changed your name and somehow befriended my husband, so that you would be invited here. I don’t care.”

Alexander opened his mouth to speak, but Angelica’s eyes opened wide in warning. “You have nothing to do in this household, and I request that you please leave.” With a final nod, she turned around to leave the room, but he grabbed her wrist and pulled her towards him. His mouth found hers. It was warm and inviting, as tender as he had remembered, and sweeter than he could recall. He let his tongue slide across her lips, beckoning her to open them for him. She did and he plunged in with gusto. He heard her stifled moan as his tongue explored of its own volition, tasting her. Her free hand entwined around his hair, pulling him closer. Her tongue darted out and began to battle with his. This time, he was the one that had to suppress the urge to groan. He released her wrist and pulled her closer. Her hand went to his chest. With a hard shove, Angelica took a step back and slapped him firmly on the cheek. “How dare you!” she cried through clenched teeth. “How dare you come back here and pretend as if nothing had happened!” “Angelica.” “How dare you come here and pretend that we could repeat what we did ten years ago. Ten years ago, Alexander, you left me. You abandoned me. I’m a married woman, now. You have nothing to do here. You don’t belong here. You never should have come back.” “Angelica, I know. I know––” Alexander began. She cut him off. “Go away, Alexander Adalsteinn. Go away, and don’t come back. You never should have come back. I can’t have you. I don’t want you.” “Angelica, you are being irrational.” Angelica couldn’t help raising her voice. “I’m being irrational? Me? The woman that you swore you loved, and then abandoned after using her for your own pleasure? Go away, Alexander. Don’t come back. I don’t love you.” “You are lying.” “It was a mistake, ten years ago. You didn’t love me, and I didn’t love you. I don’t love you now, either.” Alexander grabbed her wrist again and looked into her eyes. Her big brown eyes––the ones that had betrayed her love for him mere minutes ago; the same ones that had overflowed with tears

because he was back––were now cold and detached. He saw nothing in them. Angelica laughed; a haughty, rickety laugh. It was not a pleasurable sound. It was the laugh of someone who was on the verge of despair. “I am not the child you left, Alex. The young Angelica was destroyed ten years ago. I will ask you one more time, before I call my husband and accuse you of trying to seduce a married woman––go away.” Alexander said nothing. He looked into her cold eyes one more time and turned around to leave. Slowly, he unlocked the door. He opened it and turned back to look at the woman whom he had loved through the ravages of time. “You are wrong. I know that beneath that armor of yours, my angel still resides. Your actions have betrayed you, my angel.” With those words, Alexander exited, softly closing the door behind him. Staying behind it for a moment, he heard the rustle of skirts as Angelica hurried towards the door and threw the bolt. His heart broke at her wrenching sobs . He knew that perhaps he should have been angry at her words, but he couldn’t be. He knew that she was lying. It was true, what he had told her; her actions had betrayed her from the start. Alexander had seen the way Angelica’s eyes had recognized him––the love in them, the care in them––and the way she had kissed him. He licked his lips in remembrance. She tasted better than he’d remembered; so real, so alive. He would not leave her; not again. Never again. He knew she was married, and yet he was willing to do whatever it took to gain her back. **** Angelica stared up at the ceiling. She tried not to think as her husband pumped into her. She opened her legs a little wider, hoping to aid Ferdinand’s access. Within minutes, he had released his load into her, turned over and was fast asleep. As soon as she heard his first snore, she got out of bed and threw on a silk robe. Quietly, she sneaked into the adjoining bathroom. After lighting some candles, she turned on the hot water faucet and began to fill the tub. Angelica took off the robe and felt her husband’s seed slip down her legs. In her mind, she thanked God that he was sterile. She didn’t know what she would have done with her life if she had become pregnant by Ferdinand.

She climbed into the tub and suppressed a sigh. Leaning back, she soaked her hair and began to wash herself. Her body began to respond at her soft massage. As her hand reached her breasts, she squeezed them softly, enjoying the feel of her hardened nipples against her palms. Angelica’s thoughts strayed and she recalled the memory she always did after engaging in sexual relations with her husband. She was in a drawing room, lit only by the dim firelight. Alexander had stripped her with shaking fingers, and she had helped him undo her lace. Her own hands had travelled from the lace of her corset to the lace of his breeches. Full of nerves, she had undone them. She had gasped when his hardened cock had sprung free. She had touched it with trembling fingers. Her grasp became firm, though, as the softness of his member captivated her. Angelica had stroked it until she had felt a single tear of pre-come wet her hand, and Alexander had pleaded that she stop. He had kneeled before her then, and she had gazed into his green eyes. He had kissed her;, a clumsy, nervous kiss–– nothing like the way he had kissed her earlier that evening. All of a sudden, Angelica found her memory changed. She was no longer kissing a clumsy, sweet version of Alex, but the version of him she had seen mere hours ago. His long hair, dark like coal, was pulled back. Some tresses had escaped, framing his face and highlighting his green eyes. His lips were full, his nose chiseled, and his jaw strong and firm. Angelica imagined her hand stroking the body of a larger man. He was no longer thin and bony, but firm and toned. She felt her pussy tingle. It was too late to retreat into her dream; instead, she reveled in it. Alexander swept his hands against her breasts, squeezing them softly at first and then harder. His mouth lowered to her nipples, taking first one and then the other into his mouth. He sucked on them, lightly, then with more urgency, waiting for her to moan and tremble against him. Angelica slid a finger between her moist folds, imagining it was Alexander doing it. His long fingers pushed against her heat. His thumb nudged against her clit, slowly at first, then faster and faster, while she bucked her hips asking for more. He would solely stop when he felt

that she was near her pique. Only then would he position himself before her and push into her womb with a single thrust. Angelica let out a stifled moan. Her eyes shot open for a second, afraid that she had awakened her husband. Hearing his snores, she closed them again and resumed her train of thought. Alexander pushed into her as she clawed his back; her body, a frenzy of emotions. He pushed harder and she bucked, her legs entwining around him. She let herself go as she imagined he whispered, as he had done ten years ago, “I love you, my angel.” Angelica dipped her head under the lukewarm water. With a reluctant sigh, she stood up with shaking legs and got out of the tub. She sighed again. Her fantasy had been so real. How she longed to moan out in pleasure; to feel every fiber of her being vibrating in unison with another––with Alexander. She shook her head as she dried herself off. No, it was best she never repeat this fantasy. It would never happen, and all it would do was harm and depress her. It would be better if she resorted to the old memory; the one memory that had been her link to sanity for the past ten years, which she would always keep in her heart.

Chapter Two Alexander stared at the door for a few minutes. He closed his eyes, remembering the simplicity of his plan. He would find out where Angelica was and fetch her. He hadn’t contemplated whether she could have moved away, whether she was married or whether she had created a life beyond him. He never bothered to think about those things, or the fact that she might no longer love him. The mere suggestion drove him to despair. As reality caught up with him, he realized his plan had been selfish, unrealistic and foolish. Once he found out what had happened to Angelica and had been so fortunate as to discover that she had not moved far and her husband dedicated himself to the same business he did, Alexander came up with another plan. It did not work as he expected, so he ended up in Stepwell befriending Angelica’s husband for the sole sake of reclaiming her. And now here he was, standing before the door like a dearest friend. With a shudder, he rang the doorbell and the valet showed him in. Alexander entered the room. It took all his will power not to turn around and look at Angelica. The men approached him and he shook hands with them amicably. “Let me introduce you to our wives,” Ferdinand said. “This is Kate, Reginald’s wife.” Kate curtsied. Alex bowed before giving her a kiss on each cheek, as a sign that he was now part of this business enterprise and group of friends. Kate was a pretty enough girl. Shorter and fuller than his Angelica, her grey eyes were affable and her smile kind. “And this is my wife, Angelica.” Alex forced himself to smile at Ferdinand. It was impossible to miss the pride with which he introduced his wife, not like someone he loved, but like something he possessed. He observed her guardedly as she curtsied to him. She was truly a sight to behold. Though he despised Ferdinand for treating her like a material object, in a way, he understood that he did. Angelica was beautiful. Her long brown hair was pulled back into an intricate bun, highlighting her cheekbones and framing her

large brown eyes. Her lips were full and the color of ripe berries. Her neck was bare and delicate looking. Even dressed in the fashionable Victorian gown, full of lace and furls, her curves were plain to see: full breasts, a slim waist, and an ample bottom; he was sure her legs were slender underneath it all, as well. She had been a pretty child, but through the years, she had bloomed into a charming adolescent, and finally, grown into a stunningly beautiful woman. Alex bowed and bent over to give Angelica two kisses. A whiff of the essence of her perfume caused a pang of desire to rise in him. How he wished to pull her to him and kiss her until she was breathless. “Dinner is served, sir,” the valet announced. “Angelica, escort Lord Huntington,” Ferdinand said. Alexander smiled. He was partly grateful to Ferdinand for giving him the chance to touch Angelica again, but he also hated the way he had ordered her to escort him, not asked her. Alex offered his arm to Angelica. She took it reluctantly. Ferdinand led the way, behind him walked Kate and Reginald, and finally, Alex with Angelica. Alex observed the couple before him. Kate was at least five years younger than her husband, Reginald. An affable man, Reginald was in his forties. Stout, and large, he always had rosy cheeks and a boisterous laugh. Alex guessed that Kate was probably in her mid-thirties, and a sisterly figure to his Angie. She spoke to her husband in quiet whispers, while he laughed and patted her arm. Clearly, this couple––if not married by love––had come to an accommodation that suited them both. “How long have they been married?” he asked her in a conspiratorial tone. “About fifteen years,” Angelica whispered back. “Have you known them for long?” “Ever since I moved here ten years ago.” Alex swung his head to look at her, but she bowed her head. They lapsed into an uncomfortable silence. The intricacies of etiquette meant that since Angelica had to escort Alexander, they would sit next to each other. Throughout the main course he took the chance to observe her and think of a way to engage her in conversation, for despite the seating arrangement,

Angelica promptly ignored him. Finally, as the maid brought in dessert, Alex remembered something he had heard from her husband. “I have heard you do charity work, my ladies.” Angelica and Kate glanced at Alexander. Kate gave him a dimpled smile, which struck him as full of mischief. “Yes, Lord Huntington, but you should really ask Angelica about that. She does most of the work––I just lend a hand,” Kate said. “What kind of charity is it?” “We organize activities and collect things for the local orphanage,” Angelica replied, not lifting her eyes from her plate. “Orphans? Don’t you have any children of your own?” Angelica’s head snapped up, her eyes flashing at Alex. “My husband and I have been unable to conceive any children, my Lord,” she replied, in a voice calm and loud enough so her husband could hear. The conversation at the table ceased as all eyes fell on Alexander. “I apologize if I have touched a delicate theme,” Alex said, turning to look at Ferdinand. “I did not mean to pry.” “No offense, no offense,” Ferdinand replied in an airy tone, though his countenance was serious. He stared pointedly at his wife for a moment, before turning to Reginald and resuming his conversation. Kate went back to picking at her food, whilst Angelica turned to her friend. However, before she could speak, Alexander interrupted her. “How can one participate in your charity work, Mrs. Burgens?” Alex swallowed the bile that rose in his throat at calling his Angelica by her married name. Angelica smiled at him. Could she still read his feelings as she had done years ago? Yes, by her smile he would say she could. “Donating funds,” Angelica replied amicably. “No, I meant, participate more actively.” Angelica raised a questioning eyebrow. “My business is mainly conducted by others, and I only do the big deals,” he laughed. Angelica raised another questioning eyebrow. Alexander could tell she was not impressed.

“Anyhow, I have always wanted to participate actively in some sort of charity work.” “My Lord, perhaps your mother or your sister can assist you in the charity work. There really is no need for you to engage yourself in such activities; I’m sure you have much better things to do.” “My lady, I have no siblings. And as for my mother, she died a year ago.” Angelica stared at Alexander, their eyes locking. Her eyes brimmed with tears and she quickly lowered her gaze. “I am very sorry to hear about your mother’s death, my Lord,” she whispered. “It is all right.” Alexander’s voice sounded strained to his own ears. He knew that Angelica had known his mother, and just the remembrance of the woman that had given birth to him and protected him as well as she could brought sorrow to his heart. “Anyhow, like I was saying, only I can do the charity work,” he cut in, before Angelica began crying in front of everyone, giving away that they knew each other. “Well,” Angelica hesitated. “Perhaps we can meet up tomorrow morning?” “No, I don’t think that would be possible.” “The day after, then?” “No, I––” Angelica began to reply, clearly trying to find a way to avoid meeting with Alexander. “She’ll be delighted to meet up with you, Alex,” Ferdinand interjected. “Of course. Would Wednesday at noon suit you, my Lord?” she asked quietly. “That would be perfect, Mrs. Burgens.” Alex had to force his smile as he once more respectfully repeated her last name. Angelica nodded. “Where do you hold your office?” he asked, wondering if they would be lucky enough to be alone. “Here, my Lord. My husband is so kind as to lend me a small drawing room to myself.” “Perfect. I shall meet you Wednesday at noon.” Angelica nodded and stared at her leftovers in submission. “Come, now. Are we all done? Let’s leave this charity talk to the women and have some cigars,” Ferdinand said, rising.

The women retired to an adjoining room while the men relaxed and spoke of business matters. Reginald and Kate begged leave a few moments after, eager to reunite with their child. Relieved that the dinner was finally over, Alexander shook hands with Ferdinand, inclined his head to Angie and left. The door had barely closed behind his back when he heard the sound of a hand making contact with skin. For a moment, he stood stunned on the doorstep. Had Ferdinand slapped his angel? Without thinking of the consequences, Alexander turned on his heel and pounded on the door. His vision blurred as he imagined himself punching Ferdinand squarely between his tiny little beaver eyes. When the door opened and the butler drawled out a slow, “Yes?” Alex came to his senses. “I left my keys in the drawing room,” he stated bluntly. The valet nodded and invited him in. Angelica and her husband were nowhere to be seen. The butler accompanied him to the room, where Alex feigned searching for his keys. The house was silent and he guessed that Ferdinand had dragged Angie away. He cursed under his breath, and as soon as he found the right moment, he pretended that he had found his keys. The carriage had long been waiting for him. Alexander said nothing as his servant took the road back home. No words came to his lips, as his blood began to boil in wrath. How dare that man lay a single finger on the women he loved? His hands itched to reach out for Ferdinand’s sinewy neck and strangle the life out of him. No wonder she acted like a submissive dog. How long had he been beating her? Had she had to endure this for the last ten years? It was entirely his fault. He had not been good enough. He had let his impulses reign, and Angelica had been the one that suffered the consequences. He would never forgive himself. Even if she no longer loved him––even if she didn’t want him anymore––he owed it to her to free her from that loathsome matrimony. To imagine her frail skin beaten until it turned purple, her screams of anguish; her cries of pain.... Only when the driver announced that they had arrived did Alexander return to reality. He realized, with a dazed start, that he could taste blood on his lips. Had he been pressing his lips so tightly? His hands hurt as he slowly unclenched them, and he noticed that he had clawed his own nails into his palms. With an exasperated sigh,

Alexander abandoned the coach and entered his quiet home. He had to get her out of there.

Chapter Three Before Angelica could react, she felt her husband’s bony hand make contact with her cheek. The slap sounded so loud that she feared Alexander had heard it. The blood drained from her face as she heard him pounding on the door. He was still as impulsive as ten years ago. As her husband grabbed her arm and roughly pushed her upstairs, she saw Jonathan wait for them to disappear out of sight before opening the door. Once inside their bedroom, Ferdinand slapped her again. “How dare you treat an associate of mine with such deference?” he asked in an angry whisper. Angelica did not move. She had learned early in her relationship that it was best to stand and wait for her husband’s anger to pass. He never shouted at her. It was not his style. He would whisper between clenched teeth and slap her, or pull her hair, or shake her. If she cried out, he would slap her harder. More than once, he broke open her lip, or caused bruises on her arms. It was always a question of being educated properly, he would tell her. A woman does what her husband or father––her superiors––tell her to do. No questions, no buts. She obeys. Angelica had never been beaten in her life. Her mother had died when she was eight and her father simply shouted at her when she got in the way. Most of her life, she had spent with her nannies and tutors and only once did one of them slap her. She learned quickly with her husband that having a spirit was something uncomely of women. Once she learned how to behave, he stopped hitting her. They even established some sort of accommodation. She would always do as he bid, and he would let her care for the household. He’d even allow her to take care of charitable matters, to keep her out of the way and give him more status. Those charitable affairs kept her going. Since other women did most of the work, Angelica sometimes would permit her true character to show, and she would take charge of everything. Her strong and willful character would sometimes emerge from behind her well-bred manners. They were her moments of freedom. Now Alex was going to ruin it all. If Alex was as important an associate as her husband was physically showing her, then that meant

her husband might begin to show some interest in her affairs. Just like ten years ago, Alexander had once more ruined everything. Ferdinand pulled her hair, forcing her to kneel before him. “You little whore! You could have ruined my relation with him. You have no idea the amount of money that Lord Huntington has invested with us. On Wednesday, you will do as he bids. If he wants to help the charity with his own hands, you will allow it, do you understand, bitch?” For a moment, she wondered what that statement meant. Had business been going badly? He sharply pulled her head back, forcing her to stare at him. Angelica blinked and tried to nod in acceptance. Seemingly satisfied, Ferdinand released her hair. “Take off your clothes.” Quickly she complied. Ferdinand motioned her to lie on the bed as he took off his own clothes. He entered her hard. Angelica clenched her fists in pain, but no sound came from her mouth as he pumped into her savagely. **** Angelica stood up to receive Alexander. She had been trying to prepare herself for this moment all morning. The thought of seeing him, alone in her drawing room, had made her unable to concentrate and get anything done. She tried to feed on her anger, on the feeling of abandonment, of being cheated. She thought of the long ten years in which she had known nothing of Alex. She had spent ten years worrying about him, craving for him, hungering for him and yet she had known nothing. She had lived every day for the past ten years wondering if he would fulfill his promise and come back. Though she finally convinced herself that it would not happen, Angelica still hoped. Even as Jonathan introduced Alexander, and he bowed low to her, she could feel her resolve fading away and her heart accelerating. “Thank you, Jonathan,” she managed to say in a normal voice. “Have a seat please, Lord Huntington.” Yes! She was doing it! She was actually carrying on a civilized conversation without letting her feelings get in the way. All she had to do was avoid gazing into his eyes and she would easily be done with this silly reunion. She smiled to herself. She was still in control.

With renewed vigor, Angelica sat back behind her desk and shuffled some papers. While Alexander sat down, she tried to calm her nerves by reminding herself that they were on her ground. This was her office and she was in control. She had no feelings for Alex whatsoever and after ten years, she was certain that there was nothing left in him of the man she had once loved. Finally, she folded her hands atop the mahogany desk, cleared her throat and began to talk business. “Our charity, Children of Today, was created a few years ago to try and help those poor children who are without a home. Our main goal is to give the homeless children a roof, meals, and in general a better life until they become adopted or are ready to go their own ways. We create activities such as raffle sales to try to help better the life of the little ones in our local orphanage. We also go to them at least once a week and teach them diverse things, or play with them, read to them––” “Angie.” His voice cut through her like the sharpest knife. Her words faded away and silence reigned. Angie. It was a simple word, her name. But said by Alexander, it held a whole new meaning: love, ache, desire. Angie. It reverberated through her, coursing through her body and causing a shiver to run down her spine. Her body recognized the voice and she looked up at him, making the fatal error of gazing into his eyes. Angelica blinked. One moment Alexander was sitting across from her; the next, he was standing before her. So close. Too close. She tried to stand, but the moment she did, he snaked his arm around her waist and pulled her closer. His lips found hers and she lost herself in a passionate kiss. Angelica felt his soothing hand on her hair; his fingers burnt into her waist. Her bosom pressed against his chest, and she felt desire begin to course through her, concentrating itself between her legs. She heard a low moan emerge from her own body––something she hadn’t permitted herself to do for the past ten years. That one simple human reaction brought her back to reality. With force, she disentangled herself from Alex’s grip. Taking a step back, she slapped him hard. “Angelica,” Alexander said huskily. “How dare you?” she said, her voice rough. She cleared her throat. Her whole body trembled. She began to pace around the room,

trying to distance herself from Alex; trying to forget his taste in her mouth, to lose the warmth he had radiated, the life he had infused in her. “How dare you?” She turned to look at him. Alexander said nothing. Angelica turned away from him once more. He held his hand to his cheek in astonishment, and his green eyes sparkled wide with surprise and loss. She could not bear to look at him, because she knew she would once more fall prey to him. She took a deep breath. He did not love her, he never had; it was a question of using her body. He didn’t know her––he couldn’t. It had been ten years. They were not the same people. She passed a hand across her face trying to calm herself. Finally, she faced him. Alexander stood exactly the way he had moments before, but Angelica now remembered all she had gone through in the last ten years. She was prepared. “How dare you come here and pretend as if ten years have not passed?” she asked in a low voice, tainted with rage. “Angelica,” Alexander reacted. “I know ten years have thrown us apart, but—“ “Don’t, don’t you dare say my name again. I do not know you. I knew you once as Alexander Deveyois. I do not know you now. You are some Alexander Huntington, a mere associate of my husband. Yes, do not grimace, Lord Huntington, for I am married. I’ve been married for the last ten years and you can do nothing about it. You could have done something ten years ago, but not now.” “Angelica, please.” “I am Mrs. Burgens, and unless you are a friend of mine, which you are not, you shall refer to me as such. “ Alexander approached her once more. Angelica took a step back, shaking her head. She would not take him. She would not have him, not after ten years. She did not know him. He was not the man she loved. Silently, she repeated those words to herself in a futile attempt to make it true. Alexander grabbed her wrists and pulled her close, hugging her. She tried to push him away, but he would not release her. Finally, she succumbed, and rested her head on his chest, tears coming to her eyes. “Why are you doing this to me?” she whispered.

“Because I love you.” “You lie.” “No, my angel. I have not stopped loving you for the past ten years,” Alexander whispered into her hair, letting a kiss fall upon the top of her head. Angelica shook her head. “No?” She pushed herself away from him. “No. You might have loved me once, or pretended to that night you took my virginity, but you know as well as I do, that that love is gone.” “No.” “Yes,” she insisted. “You know you are lying.” “Perhaps,” she acknowledged, “but perhaps not.” She shrugged and began to pace the room. “It has been ten years, Alexander. Ten years, in which you have no idea what I have been through; in which I have no idea what you have been through. It has been ten years in which we have passed from children to adults. You might have loved me then, but you do not know if you love me now.” “Yes, I do know.” “No, you do not. You do not know me. You do not know what I do in my free time, what I think, or how I feel. You might have known once, but not anymore.” “You have not changed as much as you claim, Angelica. And even if I no longer know what you think, or what you do with your time, I know what you feel. I know you love me. I can see it openly in your eyes every time I look at you. I can feel it every time I touch you. Damn it, Angelica! You tremble under my hand, and it is not from fear. I know what you feel for me, and I am certain of what I feel for you. You are the only one stopping yourself from realizing those feelings.” Angelica laughed bitterly. She stopped walking and stared at him. “Does it matter? No, Alex, don’t say anything, I’ll tell you. It does not matter. Even if I were lying to myself, even if I did love you with every fiber of my being, there is nothing––absolutely nothing–– you can do; we can do. In case you have forgotten,” she said languidly, as a sad smile spread and she raised her hand, stretching her fingers so he could see the golden ring, “I am a married woman.”

Alexander burst forth; he towered above her, anger in his features. “If I have to, I will kill your husband. He deserves it for laying a single finger upon your delicate face.” His hand cupped her cheek with tenderness. Angelica closed her eyes, relishing his warmth and gentleness. “You’re insane,” she finally said, opening her eyes and stepping away. “You cannot kill my husband. Would it be better that you spend the rest of your life in prison? Or that you get sent to the gallows for murder?” Alexander paced around the room and slammed the wall in frustration. “I will not lose you again,” he said through clenched teeth. Angelica laughed. It was a hollow sound. “It is a trifle too late for that.” “Angelica, perhaps we can––” Alexander began. “No, Alexander. It is over. Forever. If you truly are going to stay in this town, and you truly wish to engage yourself in the activities of my charity, I beg you to call me by my married name.” “Angelica, please. You are being stubborn.” Angelica shook her head and turned away from him. She headed towards the door. In two strides, Alexander was after her. He gripped her by the waist and lifted her into his arms. He pushed her against the wall roughly. His mouth found hers, while his hands lifted her skirts. Angelica gasped. He pushed her roughly, and yet she felt no fear; not like with her husband. She knew Alexander would not hurt her, even if he had done so ten years ago. She entwined her legs around his waist, feeling the hardness of his shaft rub against her. She was wet and her core throbbed. She inhaled sharply at the newfound feelings. Only once she had felt such a thing. Only once, ten years ago, with the same man that held her in his grip now. That had been her perdition. Angelica kissed Alexander back with frenzy. At some point her brain had stopped fighting. She needed him. She wanted him. Her whole body was practically screaming for him. Yet, this same ecstatic madness had been what had obliged her to be married to Ferdinand. What terrible woe could come from the passionate throes if she allowed it now? Still, she seemed unable to release Alexander’s

mouth. He tasted so good: like strawberries and mint, like chocolate and milk. He was heaven to her senses. Angelica could not breathe. Somehow, Alex had made his way inside her drawers and his fingers had found their way into her soaked crotch. She had felt a moment of embarrassment that soon vanished when she heard him groan. Elated, she began to move her hips to his fingers, tiny cries escaping her. Her body reveled in his touch; her mind, though distant, suddenly reeled as he fingered her clit, and a moan became trapped in her throat. She tensed. The first night she had spent in Ferdinand’s arms assaulted her memory. It was her wedding night, and he had not been kind. Angelica had cried through it all, both in pain and fear of the man twenty years older than she, trying to push into her. All the kindness, the sweetness, Alexander had shown her, was not there. Angelica was so frightened that her body was incredibly tight. Ferdinand kept repeating that for not being a virgin, that for being a whore, she was tight as a newlywed. He seemed pleased, yet she could not stop crying. He had ordered her to take off her clothes and she had lain on the bed, expectant and afraid. Ferdinand had lain over her and kissed her. His foul breath tasted too much like wine. His fingers and those large, rough hands of his had pinched her delicate nipples, causing a cry of surprise and pain to rush forth from her lips. Ferdinand said nothing as he tried to push into her. He couldn’t. Roughly he pushed a finger inside of her and began to move it, in and out, in and out. Angelica would not grow wetter. Pain exploded inside her as he entered another finger, and then another. Angelica cried out, and Ferdinand slapped her for the first time. ‘Women are always silent’, he told her. She was nowhere nearly wet enough to receive him and yet, Ferdinand pushed inside her until she thought that she would rip apart. She began to cry harder. He slapped her again, saying, ‘Quiet, bitch.’ Angelica tried to be quiet; she really did. But it hurt so bad, so bad. Several groans escaped her and Ferdinand slapped her through every single one of them. Finally, she lost consciousness. That night, while Ferdinand slept, Angelica crawled out of bed and went to the bathroom. She cried soundlessly when she saw the dried blood on her legs. “Get off me.” Alexander stopped his ministrations and took a step back. He stared at her, worry etched onto his features.

“Angelica,” he began, “did I hurt you?” Angelica said nothing. Her legs dropped to the floor. She adjusted her skirts and went back to her desk. She sat down calmly and served herself a glass of water from the pitcher on the desk. “Angelica?” Angelica looked up at Alexander. Besides adjusting his breeches, he had not moved from the spot. “Do you know how much I suffered on my wedding night?” she asked. Alexander shook his head. “The pain was unbearable…so much pain,” she whispered. Alexander took a step towards her. “It was so painful and I couldn’t scream, I couldn’t cry; I could not, it was not proper, you see?” Alexander nodded. He sat heavily on the chair in front of the desk. Tired, he passed a hand through his hair. “I tried to commit suicide two weeks after my wedding.” She paused. “I thought you’d come for me. You never did. So, I decided to end all the pain. It was foolish.” “Angelica, I––” “There is no need for apologies, Alexander. It was a long time ago. Many things have passed. But now, do you understand why you must go away?” Angelica felt like she was in a trance. The memory of her wedding night had caused, like it had ten years ago, a great impact in her. She felt detached from her body. Oh, how she had cried for Alexander, how she had dreamt that he came for her. That he appeared and took her away. Now, he was here, but it was too late. Alexander shook his head. Angelica stood up. She went to him and kissed his cheek, barely a feather touch. “It’s too late, my love. It is too late. I suffered much, but all that is forgotten and even forgiven.” “Shush…It is all right, it was a long time ago.” Alexander embraced her, hugging her tightly. “I’m so sorry, so sorry,” he kept repeating. A knock at the door broke their embrace. Angelica turned to the door while Alexander sat back down and pretended to be looking at some papers on the desk.

“Mrs., your one o’clock appointment has arrived.” “Ah, yes, tell her to wait but a moment. Thank you, Jonathan.” “It was nice talking to you, Lord Huntington. Goodbye.” Alexander stood up behind her. Unexpectedly, he twirled her around, and looked into her eyes. Then, he lowered his face and met her lips. Angelica refused to yield, but as his tongue swept over her lips she opened up for him. Their tongues dueled and Angelica forgot to fight him, to battle against her feelings. Just as he had grabbed her, he released her. Angelica took a step back. Her eyes unconsciously went to Alexander’s face. She saw his eyes light up and she knew she had let her guard down. Setting her face in a determined mask, she scowled. “Get out before I call Jonathan to throw you out,” she hissed. Alexander laughed. “And ruin your husband’s business, my lady?” Her eyes flared. Alexander pulled her to him again even as she struggled. He lowered his head and whispered into her ear, “I know you’ve suffered, and I will never forgive myself for it. But I will not let you suffer the rest of your life needlessly. I love you, Angelica. That has not changed for the past ten years, nor will it change now.” Angelica took a step back and tried to slap him. Alexander stayed her hand. Gripping it firmly, he kissed it. “I will call on you again, love.” With that he was out the door. Angelica stared after him. She felt like shouting, cursing and kicking something, yet she remained immobile. At the same time, she longed to go after him and surrender to his kiss, to his love. Yes, he was right. She loved him. That had not changed, and she doubted it would ever change. Yet, she was a married woman, and there was nothing he could do about it. Nor was there anything he could do about the last ten years. Angelica had suffered immensely, but now her life had acquired a relative calmness. She was ready to live like this until her death.

Chapter Four Alexander called on her five days later. While he waited in the foyer he reflected on their last meetings. He knew that somehow by letting their inhibitions loose he had unlocked painful memories in her. What had made his heart go cold was her attempt at suicide. His hands unconsciously fisted and his eyes watered. Suicide. His Angelica. He never would have thought her capable of taking her own life, and yet, she had tried. What horrors had she gone through? How could he ever forgive himself? How could he ever forgive himself for hurting her like that? Alexander had wanted to go back, but he could not. He had sworn. He was still bound to that promise. No, Alexander Deveyois held that oath. He was now Alexander Huntington, and he would do whatever it took to redeem himself in her eyes. He had to redeem himself; he had to free her, even now, ten years later. Even if she did not want to be with him, he had to free her. Alexander was brought out of his reverie when the butler, Jonathan, motioned that he could now go in to see Angelica. He entered the room behind Jonathan, his countenance serious. With a nod, Angelica dismissed the valet. As soon as the door closed, Alexander looked at Angelica and couldn’t suppress a grin. “Hello, love.” Alexander’s grin grew as he noticed her agitation. Clearly flustered, she pretended to read the papers stacked on her desk. “Have a seat, Lord Huntington. I’ll be but a moment,” she said. “Of course, love.” Alexander said nothing at her formal address. He crossed his legs and waited for her to be ready. Seeing right through her tactic, he hid a smile. She wanted him to see her life as peaceful and their relationship as nothing more than that of business acquaintances. Well, if she wanted to play this game, he was in. He had spent the last days reviewing his plan and trying to find a way to break into the brick wall Angelica had constructed around herself. He knew that she would not escape her husband willingly. It would be much easier if it were so, because he would

simply take his savings and they could perhaps start anew in Paris, America or anywhere else in the world, for that matter. If the need arose, he could even construct new identities for them. He also thought about kidnapping her, but it was risky and he knew that she would never forgive him for something like that. The thought of her husband dying was a constant in his dreams, but he had seen Ferdinand two days ago and the bastard was in fine health. No, Angelica had always been stubborn as a mule, and that did not seem to have changed. Alexander would have to win her over again. He would have to reacquaint himself with her and allow her to do the same with him. Once she accepted that she was still in love with him, then she would willingly accept leaving with him and they at last could live in peace. Finally, Angelica sighed and lifted her eyes from the papers. “Lord Huntington, what can I do for you today?” “Mrs. Burgens, I believe the other day we were unable to speak much, so I have come here to offer some help to your charity.” Alexander saw her surprise, quickly hidden by a polite smile. He could not help the grin that spread across his face. “Any of your donations to Children of Today will be well received, my Lord.” “Ah, I did not mean to make any donations.” “You did not?” Alexander laughed. “Well, of course, something, but what I really meant is that I wish to participate hand in hand with you and the rest of the crew involved in Children of Today.” “That is not possible.” “Why not?” “It simply is not possible.” “Why not?” “We are all women in the Charity.” “So? Is there a policy that states that men aren’t allowed?” “No, but––” “Then what is the problem, Mrs. Burgens? I do believe your husband said during dinner the other night that it would be no problem whatsoever that I lend a hand with the charity.” “Very well, my Lord. What do you propose?”

Alexander nodded. He regretted that he had been obliged to bring up her husband’s words at dinner. He had seen the flicker of pain in her face. Had the bastard beaten her badly? For a moment, the thought of picking her up and dragging her away seemed more than agreeable. Angelica regarded him with veiled interest. No, she would have a fit if he tried something like that. “I propose we hold a raffle ball.” “A raffle ball?” “Yes, everyone must donate something, and we will raffle it. The money earned will go to the charity.” “I’m sorry, my Lord, but that requires funds that we do not have.” “I am willing to pay the expenses needed and to offer my house as the location, for everyone to assist in setting up the ball,” Alexander said sincerely. “Well,” Angelica was quiet for a few minutes. “It is a really good idea, but it is a bit grand for us. I don’t think––” Alexander interrupted her. “In London, they do it all the time.” “You have lived in London?” “Yes, for the past eight years,” Alexander replied. “Oh.” Alexander watched her keenly. She shuffled some papers and bit her lower lip, clearly weighing her options. “This is not London, my Lord,” she stated, setting the papers back down and leaning back on her chair. “We are but a small town, and I doubt there could be many people that would actually be interested in such an enterprise.” “I believe the last ball I assisted at your home was packed with people, Mrs. Burgens.” “Yes, but those were my husband’s acquaintances and many lived out of the city. Like I said, people here––” Alexander cut her off again. He saw her frown. Yes, she still disliked being interrupted. Except that now, she stayed quiet about it. “I’m sure they would agree to come,” he said. “You’d have to ask my husband.” “I will do so tonight. We’re having dinner together, at your home.” She nodded.

“Very well, my lady. I believe then it is settled.” “I beg your pardon?” Angelica stood up. She began to pace behind her desk. “I said that I believe it is settled. I will ask your husband to invite his foreign guests, I will invite some of mine, and we will hold a grand ball in honor of the Children of Today.” “My Lord,” Angelica said, stopping her pacing to look at him. Something pleasant must have come to her mind, for she suddenly smiled in earnest. Alexander smiled back and a distant memory invaded his thoughts: the first time he had kissed her. Nothing more than an innocent peck on the lips, it had made her nervous and she had run off. When she’d returned, she’d paced in front of him. He had sat back and watched her, just as he was doing now. Finally, she had turned to him. Bending over, she had kissed him, to his surprise and delight. “My Lord,” Angelica recomposed herself, “matters are not as simple as asking my husband to invite his guests. There are things to prepare, supplies, donations, tickets, and so on. It is not something one can do fast, nor without much thought.” “Like I said, my lady, I am willing to help.” He was about to add another thought to his plan; one that had just occurred to him. He instantly knew she would refuse. No, he had to do it tonight, in front of her husband, who owed the fact that his company had not gone to ruin to Alex. He would accept anything Alexander proposed, even taking his beautiful wife away for a few nights. “I appreciate it, Lord Huntington, but really, there is no need…” Alexander cut her off again, and he grinned, noticing how she bit her lip in annoyance. She had not lost that quirk. “Nonsense. Of course there is need. The children of the orphanage need our help, whatever it takes. I must flee,” he said, pointedly staring at the grandfather clock in the room. “I will see you tonight, my lady.” He bowed to her and left before Angelica could say another word. **** That night, at the dinner table, Alexander engaged Ferdinand in conversation. “Ferdinand, I was wondering if I could borrow your wife for a few days?”

Ferdinand eyed him suspiciously; his thick eyebrows rose in question, and his mouth became a thin line. “You see, we have been speaking of hosting a charity ball for the Children of Today charity.” Now he had Angelica’s attention and Ferdinand seemed to relax. “I was wondering if you cold invite some of the guests from the previous ball you so graciously hosted at your home.” “Why, Alexander, of course,” Ferdinand replied with a barking laugh. “But what does that have to do with my wife?” “Ah, you see, I believe Mrs. Burgens has never been to a charity ball before and she needs some pointers regarding its undertaking. I have been to several, but never from the organization side. I was wondering, thus, if I could take Mrs. Burgens with me to London for a few days. Two good friends of mine, Lady Smith and Lady Harkins are hosting a charity ball, and I think that with them she could learn the fundamentals of the business.” Ferdinand said nothing. His eyebrows knotted together in concentration, and he thrummed his fingers on the table. Alexander noticed Ferdinand’s indecision. It was now or never. “Of course, Ferdinand, if you don’t trust me with the care of your wife, you could come along too, but I know how much work you have.” Yes, he did really know how much work Ferdinand had. He had been the cause of all that work. Not only had he injected money in the real estate business of the man he despised, becoming, thus, the largest associate next to Ferdinand, he had also brought several clients with him. Not all of his clients, of course. He still reserved some of those in London. However, that was all secondary compared to the thought of having Angelica all to himself for a full week. After what seemed an eternity, Ferdinand nodded. Alexander smiled. Mentioning the trust part along with the clients had done the trick. Ferdinand had to trust him, because just as he had placed money on his business he could easily take it all away and leave him homeless. After having a model wife, money was Ferdinand’s weakness. “Very well, you may take Angelica to London with you. How long will you be?”

“Barely a week; we’ll depart this Saturday, and be back by next Monday.” Ferdinand nodded. “You heard Lord Huntington, Angelica.” “Yes, sir,” she whispered. Alexander glanced at Angelica nervously. Knowing her, she probably hated him at that moment for playing such a vile trick on her. “We’ll depart early Saturday morning, my lady.” Angelica nodded.

Chapter Five Angelica spent the rest of the week in a daze. She tried not to think of the upcoming trip with Alexander, but inevitably her thoughts strayed to him. She had thought that her husband would refuse and could barely hide her shock when he accepted. At times she was furious and at times she was happy beyond tears. She was afraid what going to London alone with Alexander could mean. It would mean her demise, her surrender to him. Being alone with him … she could not even imagine. Alexander had been waiting with her husband when she finally found the inner strength to go downstairs. Maintaining a straight face, she waited quietly, dressed in her most simple travelling gown. Angelica did not move, and did not dare to raise her head. She knew Alexander stood before her. She could only imagine how handsome he looked. She felt her heart thrumming through her chest, capturing her throat. Afraid that Ferdinand could hear her frantic heart or that if she spoke she would throw up her breakfast, she barely moved when he snaked a hand around her, pecked her cheek and whispered in her ear to take care and watch her steps and behavior. He would know if she was naughty. “Very well,” Ferdinand finally announced. “Have a nice trip. Send me a wire when you make it to London to know that you have arrived well.” “Of course, Ferdinand,” he replied shaking the older man’s hand. “I’ll send you a note as soon as we arrive, and fear not, I’ll take care of Angie. You take care of the McWorthis and the rest of the lot,” he added as an afterthought. “Mrs. Burgens?” Alexander offered her his arm. His heart leapt when she tucked her arm into his. Together, they walked out the door. Angelica could not breathe. Her breath hitched in her throat the moment she obediently tucked her arm into Alexander’s. She was beginning to feel lightheaded. Was she really walking out the door with Alexander? Was it a dream? She barely recalled getting into the carriage and rolling away. Only when they were leaving behind the city gates did she finally dare lift her eyes from her lap.

Her eyes immediately fell on him, like the opposing poles of a magnet. She could have looked out the window, or at the ceiling, but her eyes went directly to the man in front of her. Her eyes bore into his. She bit her lip. What was she to do? What was she to say? Her hands began to tremble and she entwined them tightly. His green eyes looked back at her with curiosity and veiled glee, waiting to see what she would do. Her husband’s words came back to her as clear as if he had been sitting with them on the carriage. It was the night Alexander proposed his crazy plan: “I’m only letting you go on this trip because Alexander is an important associate. He is the most important man in the business, right now. But listen carefully, bitch, you are to learn whatever it is he wants you to learn, and that is all. You will be polite, you will obey, but if I see as much as a sign that he has touched you I will kill him and then I will kill you.” He had pulled her hair sharply, forcing her to look at him. A single finger, Angelica. You are mine. You are my wife, my prize. I paid for you. Even if you enjoy London, there will be no way you’ll ever escape me.” “Why have you done this?” she asked in a calm, steady voice. Alexander’s eyes widened for a moment. “Because I love you.” “He will kill you if you touch me, and then he’ll kill me,” she stated flatly. “He does not need to know, and I don’t intend to leave you in his arms much longer.” Angelica laughed hysterically. “We return to the conversation we had a few days ago, Alexander. What are you going to do, kill him?” “If it comes to that.” Angelica became serious. She searched his face for a moment and smiled sadly. “No matter how much you love me, I know you are not a killer. You know as well as I do that I would never permit you to murder someone.” “It’s not someone, it’s a misogynist bastard that beats you and that has made you suffer…” Alexander trailed off. Angelica sensed that he was blaming himself for her pain. She placed her hand over his.

“There is nothing you can do about it, so don’t torture yourself. You will show me all about that London ball and we will remain as friends.” Alexander nodded. Reluctantly he released her hand. Angelica sat back on the carriage’s couch. She looked out the window, trying to hide the tears that threatened to spill. Her chest ached. What was wrong with her? One instant she was ecstatic about leaving with Alexander, the next, she dashed his dreams, and her own. The trip was uneventful and eerily quiet as they made their way to Yorkleister. They would spend the night there at the Cities Inn and then take the train the following morning into London. They arrived in time for dinner and shared it in silence in the common room. A mumbled ‘good night’ was all they said to each other before entering their respective rooms. As soon as she closed the door behind her, Angelica flung herself on the bed and let free the tears that she had been holding back all day. She curled up on the bed, trembling. She had suffered immensely during the past ten years. There had been horrible moments like her wedding night, or the beatings she received, or not being able to be herself, to be tied down to a man that did not love her and who really did not care for her except as a mere prize to show off. Yes, it had been horrible, but it after a while, it had become bearable. She knew women that were much worse off than she was. Their beatings were daily, they had had to have children with men they hated and they did not even have a piece of freedom like the one she did with the charity. Nonetheless, nothing had been as horrible as that carriage ride with Alexander. Having him so near, after so many years, had brought back so many memories. Having him so near and being unable to touch him, to feel his warmth and his love was torture. Finally, weary and overburdened, she dozed off into uneasy sleep. “Good morning, Lord Huntington,” Angelica whispered in a hoarse voice. “Angie,” Alexander began, but she opened her eyes in warning and he lapsed into silence. “Good morning, Mrs. Burges,” he finally said. Angelica nodded and served herself some breakfast, which she barely touched. She kept stealing glances at Alexander. He looked

tired: shadows danced underneath his eyes, and his mouth was set into a grim line. When they finished with their breakfast, they took the coach to the station and boarded the train, all in absolute silence. The ride was unremarkable. They barely exchanged a few words about the weather and the food served on the train. Tension hung between them like a thick velvet curtain. Finally, they entered the recently built Victoria Station. As they stepped out of the train, Angelica took Alexander’s hand. The railroad station was teeming with people. “There are so many people,” she whispered. Never in her life had she seen such a mass of humanity. Everywhere Angelica looked, she saw people hurrying around; some downloading goods, others uploading them. People greeted each other in recognition as they got off the train, while others wept as they said their last farewells. Lackeys carried suitcases; hand boys offered their services to everyone and anyone. Newspaper boys shouted the day’s headlines as they tried to sell the press. Children scurried about, their mothers and nannies running after them. Men hurried by, concentrated on their own business. “Welcome to London, Angelica.” Angelica nodded, barely aware of Alexander’s presence next to her as he tucked her arm into his and guided her out of the railway station. “Would you like to walk to the hotel? It is not far away.” Angelica nodded. She was lost in the sway of the people around her, moving like small ants, busy with their own work. “Wait a moment.” Alexander disengaged himself from her for a second and spoke with his driver and workers. Before she knew it, he was back at her side, taking her arm into his and setting off in the direction of the hotel. Out of reflex, Angelica grabbed Alexander’s hand when they arrived in London. Enraptured by her surroundings, she had kept it there until they left the station. The throng of people died away, along with the buildings, the signs, and all the elements that congested London. The only thing that ruled her thoughts as they entered a quieter part of the city was the man that held her arm and what that simple touch was creating in her. “You know, I worked in the station for a while,” Alexander said.

“You did?” she asked, earnestly curious. Her interest was piqued. They had spoken much about their feelings, or lack thereof. They had blamed, or rather, she had accused and blamed, but they had not talked about what their lives for the past ten years had been like. “Yes,” Alexander answered. “After” ––he paused––“I left, I did not know what to do with myself. My education was basic, not highborn like yours. My parents had a small carpentry, if you recall, but I could not stay in Stepwell.” He shrugged and Angelica nodded in understanding. “I moved away and engaged in several odd jobs in nearby towns. Finally, I made my way to London, and noticing what other youths did, I imitated them and began to help voyagers with their luggage. Unfortunately, my mind was never at rest, so I soon found the job boring and moved on to something else.” “What did you do?” Alexander shrugged. “Would you like some roasted chestnuts?” he asked, noticing a stall. Angelica shook her head. She felt no hunger; instead, a dreary mood was creeping up on her. “Alexander, what did you do?” They kept walking in silence for a few more minutes. Finally, Alexander glanced at her. Quickly, he looked away. “I became a thief.” Angelica gasped. “Did you … your fortune, now?” she stumbled upon every word. “No,” Alexander assured her. “No. I was fortunate, during an incursion in a house, the owner, Lord Victor Huntington, an elderly man, woke up while I was, well, you can imagine.” Angelica nodded. “The proper thing for me to do was to have run off, but I couldn’t and neither could the old man throw a bullet through my gut, though I begged him to do it.” “Why?” Angelica began, though she regretted having even mouthed the word. “I could not stand my life. Unlike you though, I did not have the courage to take my own life. I think that deep inside myself, I still had some hope that someday the situation could be amended.” He shook his head, and Angelica bit her lip nervously.

“Neither of us got any sleep that night. The old man asked me so many questions I thought my mind would burst.” Alexander chuckled. “Victor didn’t have any living relatives, so one could almost say he adopted me, if not for the fact I already had parents. He showed me the land-owning business and when he died, a year ago, he left everything to me.” Angelica said nothing. She became lost in thought, imagining how the young Alexander had lived out on the streets, without a roof, without a home, without hope, until that elderly man had rescued him. “Ah, here we are.” Angelica swallowed her gasp as they entered the hotel’s circular vestibule and passed into the reception hall to check in. Several plush-looking couches strategically placed took advantage of the light shining through the enormous windows and glass-domed ceiling. The reception hall was just as spectacular, with a large staff counter to one side, a beautiful marble staircase with a red carpet on the other and three passenger lifts next to it, a butler standing to attention in each one. Angelica stared around her while Alexander checked them in. Together they took the lift to their respective rooms. Alexander stopped at her door. He cleared his voice. Angelica looked at him expectantly. “Perhaps you’d like to accompany me to dinner, as friends, nothing more,” he quickly added, noticing her stricken face. Angelica knew she should say no, that she should try to stay away from Alexander, but it was impossible. She had enjoyed their walk so much. It had been so long since she had conversed with a friend. Besides, she loved knowing what Alexander had been up to during all this time. It eased away the worries she had felt for him during the past ten years. “All right.” “I’ll come for you at eight,” he said with a lopsided smile. Angelica nodded and entered her bedroom. She gaped in open admiration at the large suite. The room was composed of three parts. The first one was a small chamber with a wooden coffee table, large rose-colored couches and settees, placed about the room so that the guest could sit and enjoy the vista of the busy city of London showing through the large balcony windows. A four-poster bed with thin white curtains, a soft feather mattress and matching pink pillows crowned

the next room. A large closet already held Angelica’s gowns neatly organized. Finally, connecting with the bedroom, near the marble fireplace, was a bathing room. To one side, it had a gleaming white tub that could easily accommodate two persons. The toilet, a cabinet that held fluffy white towels and robes with the hotel’s initials, a dresser and a full-length body mirror, composed the rest of the bathroom. Hanging on the wall over the bathtub, a rack full of scented soaps and samples caught her attention. It was clearly an invitation. She gave into the impulse. As the water warmed and filled the tub, Angelica quickly discarded her clothes. She threw into the water a rosemary sample and waited for it to sink in. With a satisfied sigh, she eased herself into the water. Before long, she dozed off.

Chapter Six Alexander went into his room and plunged into the cold shower. He needed to calm down and stay confident. It was only dinner with a friend, he repeated to himself, as he got dressed. They weren’t even going out; he was going to take her downstairs, to the hotel’s dining room. Perhaps Victor had been right. Perhaps, even if he could not love her as a woman, he could at least keep her near as a friend. He served himself a glass of whiskey and smiled fondly remembering the night he met the old man. “Put that down, young boy.” Alexander obeyed immediately. He had heard the trigger being pulled back. Any moment he would be shot and the endless agony he had lived with since abandoning Stepwell would end. The shot did not come forthwith. “Turn around.” It was a simple order. He obeyed. Perhaps the owner of the mansion he was stealing from would want to see his face before killing him. “Why were you stealing from me?” It was a simple question. Alexander gaped. He had been caught several times while stealing; most of the time, he had been able to flee the gunshots that ensued. Once, someone had shot him in the leg, and the wound had festered so badly he thought he would die. Odie, his mate, with whom he shared a broken-down basement in the poor district of town, had gone beyond his measure to get him some help. Alexander had insisted that he let him die, that he had nothing to live for anymore, but Odie thought otherwise. Unfortunately, Odie died a few months later of tuberculosis. “Why are you stealing from me, boy?” Alexander froze. Why was he stealing? He did not need the money, not really. He could always go back home and take over his father’s business. 6o, he had left that path the night he left Stepwell. Why was he stealing? He could find a job, as he had done on his way to London or in the station. He was quite capable. Why was he stealing? “If you don’t answer me I will shoot you,” the man threatened.

Alexander opened his arms in reply. That was why he was stealing. It had been why he had taken to this absurd way of life. He was too cowardly to take what was left of his life, so he chose to risk it every day, stealing from others, and doing reckless things. The man lowered his gun. “You steal because you wish to die.” Alexander nodded. The old man put his gun down. His watery blue eyes flickered sadly under the fireplace light. “I will not be the one to put an end to your life.” “Why?” The old man laughed. “And carry to my death bed the guilt of killing a young man because he was as foolish as wanting to die? 6o, thank you.” “Foolish…foolish?” Alexander felt rage building in him. “You have no idea what I have been through,” he began. The old man laughed again. “You are right, no I don’t, but you don’t know what awaits you tomorrow, or the day after, or from here to ten years.” “It’s not worth it.” “It’s because of a woman, right?” “It’s because of an angel,” Alexander corrected. The old man nodded. “She is dead?” “6o.” “Then, you still have hopes.” “Her father--” “Will die, eventually.” “She is most likely married.” “She could become a widow.” “But what if––?” “That’s a risk you must take.” Startled, Alexander stared after the old man. He had moved to an ornate wooden cabinet and pulled out two glasses and a bottle. “Here,” he said, offering one to Alex. Alexander swallowed it whole. The old man chuckled as he began to cough. “Best whiskey in the whole of England,” he said while he sipped at his drink.

“Are you going to call the police?” Alexander finally managed to ask. The old man laughed again. “6o, sonny. You haven’t stolen anything, but simply broken into my house. Besides,” he took another sip, “for some strange reason, I’ve taken a liking to you.” “Liking?” “Yes, absurd isn’t it? Taking a fancy to your burglar. Perhaps in my old age I have become irrational. It does not really matter. I wish to help you.” “Help me? How?” “All in due time,” the old man chuckled. “First, let me finish my drink, and then I’ll explain.” Hearing the grandfather clock in the corner of the room chime eight, he raised his glass and downed it in silent honor to his friend. Hurriedly, he went to Angelica’s suite and knocked. He danced on the balls of his feet as he waited for her to come to the door. Finally, she emerged from her room and his breath hitched in his throat. She had pulled her hair up and ornamented it with several silver pins. Her gown, the color of peaches, highlighted her pale skin and contrasted her deep dark eyes. The bodice of her silken chiffon dress was low, barely suggesting the beginning of her cream-colored breasts. In her gloved hands, she held a closed fan. She had applied little makeup, barely enough to enhance her natural beauty. Her lips were pink and lush. Alexander took a step forward. “Good evening.” Angelica’s voice stopped him just in time from kissing her and breaking their vow of friendship. “Good evening, Mrs. Burges,” Alexander said respectfully, trying to be firm about the pact they had made. Angelica smiled with relief. “Good evening, my Lord.” Alexander took her hand and tucked it into the crook of his arm, and the pair took the elevator to the dining room. They stepped into the reception hall and took a left into a long hallway adorned with several large Venetian-styled mirrors in ornate frames. Alexander said nothing, but he could not help thinking every time he saw their reflection that they looked good together. They reached the restaurant’s waiting room. It was decorated with more mirrors, love seats and armchairs upholstered in crimson morocco. In the center of the room, over the tessellated pavement, lay

a splendid Persian carpet. To a side, an alabaster bar offered drinks to those waiting to enter the dining room. Alexander was a well-known guest, so they were quickly ushered into the great dining room and led by a waiter to a discreet table framed by a large stained-glass window. White marble pillars with gold capitals, held a coved ceiling carved and artistically embellished with arabesques. In its center a colossal chandelier of Venetian glass hung. The crimson damask walls exhibited a series of florid wood panels. In the center of the room on top of an Indian Axminster carpet, a pianist played soft ambient music. All around, tables were set with fine napery and silverware. “It’s amazing,” Angelica whispered. “It is,” Alexander agreed, enjoying her open admiration of the opulence around them. Angelica glowed. She belonged here like a finger to a glove. Alexander was the one out of place. He was the one that had had a modest upbringing; she was the one that was bourgeois. Yet, when they had been children making plans for their future they had never spoken about riches. Instead, they fantasized about taking walks down the beach, or reading together under the shade of a large oak tree during a warm summer evening. “How did you ever come to afford all this, Alexi?” Angelica asked. Alexander laughed happily. He realized that by making that question Angelica had felt so at ease with him that she had unconsciously lapsed back into how she treated him ten years ago. He felt giddy. She had called him Alexi, and that was something that even back then, she only did on the rarest occasions. However, he was well aware that if he treated her with the same intimacy, she would once more grow cold to him. “Like I said before, Victor left me everything in heritage–– although, I admit that I also made some of my own money.” “Yes. Forgive me for asking, my Lord,” she punctuated the last bit on purpose. Alexander smiled. He noticed her reddened cheeks, but said nothing. “My lady, please, no need to apologize. Would you like for me to tell you some more about my business?”

Angelica nodded. The waiter returned and they ordered their five-course dinner. “Well, my lady,” Alexander began. “After Victor took me in, he showed me his business. It was, as you know, the same as your husband’s: real estate, land selling and buying. Victor was a true expert at this. He would buy cheap estates or run down houses, rebuild them or fix them and then sell them for triple the initial worth. Little by little, he showed me all the complicated schemes of the business, as well as introducing me to his friends, and people from, well, highly allotted places.” He took a sip of his wine, and tried hard not to smile. Angelica rested her head on her hand and stared at him with what he could only classify as admiration. “Please, my lord, go on.” “Victor also took the opportunity to give me the upbringing my parents had not been able to. He made me read books like Plato or Sophocles. He forced me to write every day so as to better my handwriting, but through it all he would not let me forget my origins as the son of a carpenter. For him, I’d build tiny models of all the houses we bought and sold. Sometimes, he would tell me how he wanted a house to look and I’d build a model of it; other times, I’d only do replicas of the result. My father was quite impressed when I showed him what I’d done.” Alexander knew she wanted to ask him something. He could tell by the way she nervously bit her lower lip. Ten years ago, when she wanted to say something and did not dare, for fear that it was not ladylike (never because she was shy) she would bite her lip. More than once, Alexander had edged her on to open up to him and let out whatever she was holding back. He couldn’t do it tonight. It would denote a confidence that was not yet re-established between them, and he did not want to break what little they had achieved. “But, enough of me, Mrs. Burgens, perhaps you can tell me a bit about yourself and how you’ve been faring.” Angelica visibly tensed her posture and frowned. “There is no need to, if you don’t want to, Angelica.” They stared into each other’s eyes. Finally, Angelica took in a deep breath. “I have been well, Sir. As you know, I got married soon after your departure. Afterwards, I moved to Hackseville and I have been living there since. Unable to conceive any children, I care for the

charity and the rest of the time I spend at home, taking care of the household, as any proper woman.” Alexander nodded. He knew she was not telling him anything. As a matter of fact, she was just stating the basics, but at least she had acknowledged to do that much. “Would you like to dance, Mrs. Burges?” Angelica jumped in her seat. Noticing her bewildered look, Alexander plunged on. “Adjoining this room is one of the finest dancing rooms in all of London. You were once an adept dancer, and I thought that perhaps you would like to try dancing here, if only this once, Mrs. Burges.” He respectfully addressed her again, wishing to make clear that her boundaries would be respected. Alexander watched her closely. She bit her lower lip, and looked unseeing at her half-empty glass of wine. Finally, she nodded. “I would be honored to dance with your lordship.” Alexander smiled. Ah, her manners were never forgotten. They moved to another apartment with inviting wide open doors of ebony and gold. The music of a band of expert musicians filled the room. People stood around either talking or dancing on the floor, which was laid out in a tasteful pattern of tessellated stone. Alexander bowed to Angelica. She smiled warmly at him and took his hand as he led her to an open space in the ballroom. They followed the pattern of the music, lost in the elated feeling of freedom that dancing brought. Even as the tune ended and another began, they did not stop. When the clock struck midnight the musicians announced that they would be playing one last piece before closing for the day. Quiet and solemn, the piece brought them together. Alexander held onto her waist, enjoying the texture of the silk, and the flutter of her warm breath on his neck. Angelica relaxed in his arms. Finally, the song ended and with it, the magic of their evening. Alexander guided Angelica back to her room, and they said an awkward goodnight. Alexander paced. He wanted to knock down Angelica’s door and tell her to stop behaving like a fool. She loved him nearly as much as he loved her. Tonight demonstrated it. They acted with naturalness around each other. It didn’t matter if they were simply

speaking, having dinner or dancing; they were so at ease with each other that it seemed as if time had never passed. For all that was worth, she had even used his pet name! He didn’t care if she was married, he’d make her come to her senses. And if not, he’d kidnap her and flee to America.

Chapter Seven Angelica had slept awfully. She had gone to bed angry, aching for Alexander’s touch like never before. Her bed seemed empty, and every time she hugged the pillow to herself, she recalled Alexander’s firm body, the smell of his cologne and the way he whispered her name. She wanted to go to him, but she did not dare. When in the morning he offered her to accompany him on some business errands, she readily accepted. She did not want to be alone. She wanted to be with him––no matter the pain it caused her. Together, they took the carriage to a large grey building in the business district of London. They stopped in front of a large brick building. Alexander guided her towards the left and to the last floor. Everyone inside knew Alexander. All she could hear as he walked her towards his office was a stream of Good morning, Lord Huntington or Good morning, Alexander. “Welcome to Huntington and Associates,” Alexander said as they entered his office. She stood in the center of the room over a richly designed carpet. Wide windows, framed in velvet curtains, let the sunrays shine in and reach the oak escritoire that presided the room. Neatly arranged, two chairs padded in the same velvet hues of the curtains were in front of it. Books, portraits and house-shaped figurines filled the bookshelves lining the walls. “You own all this?” Angelica asked. “Yes. Well, most of it at least. I also have a few associates.” He grinned at her like a child that had just discovered something new and exciting and was sharing it with the whole world. His enthusiasm was contagious and she found herself smiling back. “So, Ferdinand is an associate of yours?” “That is a different matter.” “I would like to know,” she said in a quiet whisper. “Sit.” Angelica obeyed. She folded her hands neatly into her lap and looked up at Alexander. She knew she should not have asked, but now it was too late. She wanted to know why Alexander had associated himself with Ferdinand, a small land broker of the outskirts of London.

Alexander leaned back on his desk and stared at her. Doubt clouded his features. “Tell me all of it, Alexander.” “I traced you down,” he stated flatly. “I asked my mother about you, and she told me that they had married you off to some rich broker in another town. There aren’t many brokers in that part of England. I searched one after another, looking for the one that had married in the past few years to a young beautiful woman and I stumbled upon Ferdinand.” He took a deep breath. “You’re not going to like this.” “Tell me, Alexi. I need to know.” She scooted over on the edge of her chair. Worry gripped her and she entwined her hands and pressed them together until her knuckles hurt. “I investigated your husband’s business, and I began to steal contracts from him.” “You tried to ruin him?” “Yes.” He shrugged. “My plan was simple. I’d ruin him, I’d buy his business, and then I would come for you and take you away.” He laughed harshly. “It didn’t turn out to be that simple. I almost ruined your husband, but he was not as foolish as I thought he would be. He did not let me buy the business. He had some money stashed, so he asked me if I was interested in becoming an associate. He begged me not to take it all away from him. I was desperate for an excuse to get near you, so I accepted.” Angelica covered her mouth with her hand. Alexander shrugged again. “So, answering your question, yes, Ferdinand is an associate of mine. I promised him I would let him keep the name of the firm, but I invested more than either he or Reginald had been able to. So Burgens and Regi’s belongs 51% to me. The day your husband dies it will all fall in my hands.” “He never told me we were going to ruin,” Angelica mumbled. “Would he really have told you?” Alexander enquired. Angelica shook her head. “No, you’re right; he would not have told me. And, you did all that to find me?” “No.” Angelica looked at him bewildered. Kneeling before her, Alex took her small hands into his larger ones.

“I did all that to take you back with me and keep you forever. They were selfish motives and I ask your forgiveness, Angelica.” Angelica opened her mouth to speak, but at that moment, the door burst open, and a tall man with gelled blond hair and bright blue eyes walked in. “Alexander!” he boomed in a thick German accent. “Dreiderich,” Alexander replied. He stood up to greet the man. The blond looked between Alexander and Angelica. He cursed in German. “I have interrupted. I am so sorry. I ask your forgiveness, my lady.” He bowed to Angelica. “It’s just that I was not expecting this young man to come to London just yet and then I heard he was here and I thought he was alone, but I see your plan worked, because I take it this beautiful lady is Lady Angelica, ai?” Dreiderich nudged Alexander in the ribs, and walked past him, ignoring his open mouth. “Lord Dreiderich Vachner at your service, madam.” He took Angie’s hand and inclined himself before it. She smiled. “Dreiderich, this is Mrs. Angelica Burgens.” “Mrs? Burgens?” Dreiderich repeated dumbly. His eyes widened as realization dawned on him. “Then she is…? I beg your forgiveness, my lady,” he bowed again. “Alexander, I,” he began. “Wait for me outside. I’ll be but a moment, Dreiderich.” He nodded and inclined his head to Angelica. Crisply he walked out of the office, closing the door behind him. Angelica stood up. “I believe you have business matters to tend to, and explanations to make.” “No, Angie, please, this will take but a moment. Just let me–– ” Angelica shook her head. “It’s all right, Alexander, I understand. I’ll take the coach back to the hotel; there was no need for me to come this morning.” “Angie,” Alexander pleaded. She shook her head again. Alexander sighed. “Very well, I’ll pick you up after lunch.” She nodded and opened the office door. Dreiderich jumped up from the chair he had taken outside the office. With a nod and a smile, Angelica was past him. Angelica left the office and took the coach back to the hotel. She did not bother to look out during the ride. The throng of people,

the architectural novelties that surrounded her; nothing enthralled her anymore. Only one thing occupied her mind: Alexander Deveyois, or Alexander Huntington, as he was now known. If the blond man, Dreiderich, had not interrupted them, she knew that she would have fallen prey to Alexander’s charm. Now, she had time to think and ponder what she was going to do. She loved Alex, her Alexi. She was as certain of that as she was sure that her eyes were brown. However, she was married, and indulging herself in Alexander’s love would be a problem for both of them. For her, discovery of an infidelity could mean two things: on the one hand, she would be accused of adultery and shunned from high society. On the other hand, Ferdinand had sworn to kill them if he found out. For Alexander, it would mean losing prestige. They would accuse him of seducing a married woman and his business empire, all that he had achieved in the past ten years, would be lost. Angelica sighed. She entered her room and lay down on the bed without bothering to undress. She pressed her knuckles to her eyes, trying to shut out the world. Every moment she passed with Alexander, she was more and more inclined to simply let herself go and enjoy what little happiness life had denied her for the past ten years. She felt cruel and horrible when she thought about releasing her desires. However, whenever Alexander said her name, his tone of voice was like a plea to her. Surrender to me, it whispered. Every single time she looked into his eyes she felt her will dissolve a little. What if she became an adulterer? What if Alexander lost all his empire? They had not needed that ten years ago, why would they need it now? But, what would they do penniless and dejected by society? What would become of them? Would Alex have to resort once more to thieving? Would she have to resort to mending other people’s clothes, or perhaps even whoring? She turned in bed and hugged her pillow to her chest. She closed her eyes and imagined, as she had the last two nights, that it was not a pillow she was resting her head on, but Alexander’s firm chest. In her mind he caressed her hair and whispered soothing words. Angelica woke up with a start. She climbed out of bed and opened the door. She became wide-awake when she saw Alexander standing in the doorway. He looked at her for a moment, and then very gently pushed her back into the room. He locked the door behind

him as Angelica stared wide-eyed at every single one of his moves. He turned to look at her, and approached without speaking. Angelica took a step back, then another and another. Finally, she collapsed on the bed behind her. Alexander towered above her. Bending over, he kissed her. Angelica closed her eyes. His kiss was soft, yet demanding; sweet, yet intense. Her breath began to feel labored as his caress went from her face to her chest. He began to undo the lace of her nightgown, while his other hand traced her cheekbone. Not for one moment did he separate his lips from hers. To the contrary, with every passing second his kiss grew deeper, hungrier. His tongue plunged into her mouth, demanding that she fight back. She did not. Angelica succumbed. She lashed her tongue into his mouth. With relish she licked, bit and tugged at his lips. Her hands went around his neck, pulling him closer. The lace of her nightgown fell away and her breasts became exposed. His hands traced the curve of her neck and then softly, like the touch of a feather, he brushed them against her breasts. That tiny tap caused her nipples to harden, almost painfully. Alexander pinched them and Angelica heard herself moan into his mouth. He released her and slowly laid a trail of kisses from her face to her breasts. Her hips bucked of their own volition against him as she waited impatiently to feel his warm breath and his wet mouth on her cold breast. A hiss rushed forth from her pursed lips when the moment finally arrived. As he suckled on one, his other hand pinched and rolled the nipple between his thumb and forefinger. Angelica moaned again. She wanted him so badly. She needed him so badly. She thrust out her hands and searched his body, looking for skin. She trembled as she found the smooth skin of his chest, scattered with sparse hair. Alexander released her breast and threw off his shirt. He went back to his feast, while she lovingly caressed his arms, his chest and his back. She raked her nails against his back, and heard his sharp intake of breath. She heard it again as she pushed her hand inside the waistband of his pants and found his hard cock, already dripping with precome. “Take me Alexi, please,” she cried. He helped her remove her gown, and then he removed his own clothes. He pushed her back down on the bed and splayed open her legs. He stared down at her for a moment. Alexander opened his mouth to speak, but Angelica could no longer take it.

“Alexi, now,” she whispered urgently. She raised her hips. Alexander positioned himself over her. She felt the tip of his sweltering cock, ready to enter her, as he bent lower and whispered into her ear, “I love you, my angel.” Knock, Knock, Knock. Angelica almost jerked out of bed. She looked around her in a daze. She swallowed hard, trying to steady her heart. The curtains hadn’t been drawn and sunlight filtered through the room. She wasn’t even wearing her nightgown. It had all been a dream. A dream–– Knock. Knock. For a moment, she was afraid to open the door. She feared that if it were Alexi she would throw herself at him and beg him to take her right then and there. Knock. Knock. “Coming,” she finally managed to say. She swung the door open, awaiting whatever was on the other side with both dread and hope. A young butler smiled at her. “Sorry to disturb you, my lady, but Lord Huntington awaits in the lobby.” Angelica nodded. “Tell him I’ll be down shortly.” **** Angelica saw him from afar. He was sitting on one of the settees reading a newspaper. As if he had sensed her presence, he looked up. His face lit up when he saw her, and Angelica felt her heart climb to her throat. She suddenly realized that her own features probably lit up like that every time she poised her eyes on him. “I ask your forgiveness that I did not go upstairs to fetch you, my lady, but I thought that if you had perhaps put on your sleeping gown and I came to fetch you it would be uncomely.” “Not to worry, my Lord.” “Come, Mrs. Burges, we’ve a meeting with Lady Antoinette and her sister, Annette. They are the ones organizing the charity ball that will take place Saturday evening and I’m sure you will find their views quite enlightening.” They left the hotel and took the coach to a large house in another part of the city. A butler dressed in impeccable black and white invited them to wait in a drawing room. While they waited, Alexander talked to her in confident tones.

“These two women, widows, both of them, take care of one of the largest orphanages in London. They are really very kind souls, although a bit ostentatious and gossipy.” Angelica laughed. “How did you meet them?” “It was one of the acquaintances I made with Victor. He never admitted it, but I truly think he had some sort of affair with Annette.” The butler interrupted their conversation with a slight cough and two elderly women, dressed in flamboyant matching blue gowns, bustled into the room. Alexander stood up and Angelica followed. He bowed respectfully but the eldest lady interrupted him. “Alexander.” The larger woman of the two approached Alex and kissed his cheek with familiarity. “Welcome back home. We’ve missed you.” “Indeed, we have, young man. You must tell us all about your trip, but first introduce us to this beautiful young lady,” the other woman said, eyeing Angelica with a smile. “Lady Antoinette Smith and her sister Lady Annette Harkins, this is Mrs. Angelica Burgens.” Angelica curtsied. “Thank you for inviting us to your home, my ladies.” “Burgens? Married are we?” Annette turned to her sister and a knowing glance seemed to pass between them. “Yes, madam,” Angelica replied respectfully, unsure of where the commentary was headed. “Well, don’t you worry, dears. Your secret is safe with us,” Antoinette said with a little laugh. “Come now, into the dining room for tea, where we can talk more in peace.” “Secret?” “Why, dearies! You aren’t going to deny that you share a special relationship, are you?” “Antoinette, you are wrong. There is nothing going on between us,” Alexander intercepted. “Sure,” Annette replied, the irony so thick in that single word it could probably be sliced with a knife. “We are here, like I told you in my wire, because Mrs. Burges wants to host a ball for the Children of Today charity. And you, my ladies, are total experts on that matter.” “Oh, we can certainly help you, dear,” Annette said, taking Angelica by the arm and leading her towards the dining room. “But

first tell me about your home and what you have in mind for that ball?”

Chapter Eight It was past ten when they finally left the household of the two sisters. They had spoken long and almost nonstop about charity and ways to achieve money to help. Annette and Antoinette had been graceful hosts, insisting that they stay for dinner and facilitating pleasant conversation. The only setback was that they tried with every sentence to discover if there was really something going on between Alexander and Angelica. Both of them had acted with absolute correctness, addressing each other by their titles and sitting as far apart as possible. “That was hard work,” Alexander exclaimed once they were safely back on the coach and heading back towards the hotel for the night. “I don’t think I have ever met two women so interested in other people’s affairs.” Alexander laughed. “Yes, they look innocent enough, but they are wry. You only have to see how Annette began to converse with you.” He paused for dramatic effect and tried to imitate Annette’s voice. “ ‘Tell me about your home.’ ” Angelica laughed good-heartedly. “I don’t think she really expected me to be married. She kept asking all sorts of questions: ‘How old is your husband? How long have you been married? Do you have any children?’ ” Alexander nodded. “While she interrogated you, Antoinette was asking me questions, too. ‘Where did you meet her? Is her husband here? He allowed you to take her to London alone?’ I think I was able to convince her that your husband truly loves you and that he trusts you so much and believes so much in the goodness of charity work, that he thought sacrificing you for a few days was a small price to pay for the Children of Today.” Angelica nodded. “I hope so; I don’t wish to see your name fouled because of my presence.” “She will think twice before putting at risk your place in society.” The conversation he had had with Dreiderich after Angelica had left his office came rushing back to him now. “What in God’s name happened?”

Alexander turned to look at his friend. With a sad smile he invited Dreiderich to sit down. Driederich shut the office door and sat across from Alex. Dreiderich had been one of the first persons he had met after starting his business training with Victor. He was the son of a rich German merchant that had come to England to extend his business. Unlike his father, he did not wish to be a merchant, but had taken to studying law. The two men had taken an immediate liking to each other, and Alexander found in the two-year-older man, a brotherly figure. While Dreiderich preferred the wild parties and lifestyle, Alexander kept to himself. Dreiderich pestered him until Alexander told him his motives for locking himself at home. Immediately, he had offered to help devise a plan so that Alexander could regain Angelica. Alexander quickly explained what had occurred. Dreiderich swore in German. “So the bastard will not give her up, hein?” he said humorlessly. “6o, and she––well, she says she does not love me anymore, Dreider.” “She loves you,” Dreiderich replied. “But––” “If it wasn’t so obvious, why do you think I thought I had interrupted something? I thought you two had been kissing.” “I don’t know, she keeps saying––” Alexander began. “What is she going to say, Alex? She is a married woman. She can’t confess her feelings and let herself fall into your open arms without another care in the world. You know that if discovered as an adulterer, she will be one for the rest of her days. Society will shun her, forever. You have told me yourself that she is high bred. They have ingrained these things in her mind since she was a child, and no matter how liberal her spirit is, no matter her stubbornness, no matter the love she feels for you, she will think twice before putting at risk your place in society.” “My place?” “Yes, my friend, your place. She will worry about her place, but she will also worry about yours, even more now that she has seen all you have achieved.” “I will not allow her to put me before her feelings, and all I want, damn it.” Alexander punched his wooden desk. He slumped into his chair and closed his eyes.

“I missed her before, Dreiderich, but now, having her so near every day and not being able to touch her… to be unable to kiss her whenever I please or to simply hold her hand… it is torture.” “I can imagine. But, don’t give up hope, Alex. Remember what Victor always said, life is full of if’s but--” “If you don’t take the risk then it’s not worth it.” “You’ve taken the risk, and now it’s her turn. Give her time to breathe, and you’ll see how sooner or later she comes around.” Alexander shook his head. “You have no idea how stubborn she can be.” “6o, I don’t. But, can either of us know how much she loves you? From what you have told me, I think she loves you a lot more than you give her credit for.” Alexander now observed Angelica. She sat with a straight back, her head slightly tilted to one side, hiding her features from him and her hands poised over her lap. She was a picture of ladylike perfection just like she had been all her life, but he was beyond that. “Angelica, I don’t care what people think of me. You should know that.” Angelica lowered her head and remained silent. “It would destroy you.” “So? It is only a position in society; only money, Angelica. I almost was destroyed once and it was because I was not with you.” Alexander bit his tongue. He regretted saying that. They had been getting along so well, and now, he had once again made clear his feelings, probably scaring her off once more. Angelica looked out the window. “We both know why our love could not be,” she stated flatly. “Because I did not have a position,” Alexander sighed. “My father would not allow it.” “You are a grown woman. Your father arranged your marriage––your life, almost. I think it is time you decide for yourself.” Angelica grew silent again. “Alexander--” “Yes, Angelica?” Alexander edged her on. He knew, by the way she was biting her lip and wrenching her hands: whatever she was trying to say was important. Alexander feared the worst.

“Alexander,” Angelica began again. She took a deep breath. “In your plan to take me away from my husband, where did we go? What exactly…” she trailed off. Alexander felt like his chest had constricted. He did not know why, but he realized that what he answered would determine the way their relationship advanced or ended. He took a deep sigh. The truth was always the best solution. “I had planned that we could flee to Paris, or maybe even America.” “America?” Angelica asked, her eyes widening. Unthinking, Alexander took her hands into his. “Angie, I would travel all the oceans in the world, climb the highest mountains, dig the biggest tunnel, just to take you away with me.” “But--” “I had, have, some money saved in a bank outside of London, under my old name. It’s all legal,” he quickly added, noticing her stricken face. “Dreiderich helped me do it.” Angelica nodded but said nothing more. She removed her hands from his grasp and stared out the window. Alexander feared he had failed. Her silence scared him. The coach came to a stop in front of the hotel. Alexander helped Angelica step out, but her silence was beginning to unnerve him. Nonetheless, he waited for her to say something, afraid that if he said anything else he would increase the abysm that had once again sprouted between them. When they reached their respective bedrooms, Alexander stopped at her door. He shuffled his feet, unsure whether to add anything else. “Good night,” Angelica whispered. Alexander sighed sadly. “Good night.” Alexander felt numb. He followed through with his usual nightly routine: taking off his clothes, putting on his blue striped pajamas, brushing his teeth and finally getting into bed. He closed his eyes, but sleep would not come to him. Instead his eyes filled with tears. He placed his fists over them, trying to hold back the tears. He knew this possibility existed from the start. He had taken the risk and lost. It happened, sometimes. It had happened to him several times when he began working with Victor, but it had never ever been so painful.

A knock at the door, barely audible if the room had not been in silence, made him jump out of bed. He lit a candle on the bedside table and rushed to the door, throwing it open in haste. His vision became blurred, and he felt his cheeks become wet. He heard the click of the door closing, and the next thing he knew, small hands were wiping away his tears, and warm lips met his. Alexander fell to his knees. He took Angelica’s hands and kissed them repeatedly; finally, he rested his head on her belly and wept. The pain of the past ten years, the dreams, the fear, and the relief, it all swept over him now like a torrent. She had come to him. She loved him, after all. He hugged Angelica tighter, afraid that if he released her, he would wake up to discover it had all been a dream. Alexander looked up at his angel. She was beautiful even if her face was blotched by tears that still fell. He stood up and gazed at her for a moment before bending over and claiming her lips. With ease, he lifted her into his arms, and took her to the edge of the bed. Sitting down, he accommodated her on his lap, and cradled her, like a mother would a child. Angelica buried her head into his chest and sobbed. “Hush, my love.” Alexander caressed her head and her back, trying to soothe both their nerves. Angelica began to quiet down. As she lifted her head, their eyes met. Alexander knew that he would never be able to put into words what he felt at that moment when Angelica looked into his eyes. Her face was pale and her eyes red, but they were filled with such love, that the only thing he could think of to demonstrate an ounce of the love he felt for the woman in his arms was to kiss her. Alexander kissed her lips, and was pleasantly surprised when her arms immediately went around his neck, pulling him closer. He nibbled at her lower lip, and thrust his tongue forward. Her mouth gave him free access, and their tongues tangled with gusto. His body began to respond to his own accord, and his hands strayed from her back to the front of her gown. He began to undo the cord of her lace, which easily gave way. She hissed into his mouth, when she felt his fingers stroke her chest. Alexander broke their kiss. Angelica’s face was flushed, her breathing heavy. Gently, he pushed her back against the feather pillows. He threw off his pajama shirt and leaned in to kiss her once more.

Alexander cupped her breasts and weighed them in his hands. He heard her moan and he could not help emitting a low growl. He wanted his angel so badly. He released her mouth and looked down at her. “Angie,” he whispered hoarsely. He picked the hem of her gown and began to pull it up. Angelica trembled from head to toe. “I will not hurt you.” Angelica nodded. “I know.” She propped herself up and helped him remove the rest of her gown. Alexander’s breath hitched as she accommodated herself against the pillows. Alexander gazed at her through eyes lidded with desire. “You are so beautiful,” he murmured. His fingers gently traced her cheekbone, falling down to her neck and climbing over her breasts. The nipple, already hard, crinkled into a tough peak. Silently, as his finger continued to trail down her body, making small circles on her stomach, he lowered his hand to the tendril of brown pubic hair. He did not stop there, but traced a path from her right leg to her toes. He then switched legs, and began the climb up her thighs. This time, when he reached her furry mound, he stopped. His finger slipped between her legs. Without thinking, Angelica opened her legs wider, and Alexander’s finger slipped into her moist folds. He did not stray long, but continued his now wet trail back to her face. Laying over her, he once more pressed his lips against hers. He dropped kiss after kiss on her face, on her neck, until he finally reached her breasts. His wet mouth gently tasted her nipple. Softly at first, as if he were afraid he would hurt her, he suckled on it. Alexander felt her move below him and suckled harder. He did not ignore her other nipple, but pinched and rolled it between thumb and forefinger. Angelica’s hips bucked, urging Alexander to fill her. Angelica shook her head from side to side; a tiny sound escaped her pursed lips. Alexander groaned as her searching hands found his waistband and made contact with his pulsating cock. “Alexi.” Alexander lifted his head and in the blink of an eye he had thrown of his pants. Angelica covered her mouth with her hand. “Don’t be afraid, Angel.” Angelica nodded. “Can I?” she began to ask. Alexander smiled and helped her to her knees. Angelica placed her small hand on Alexander’s shaft. It bucked and she let out a nervous laugh. She

caressed it, spreading the precome to the base, enjoying its silky feeling. Alexander held still. He knew that he had developed during their years of separation, but he had not known how much until he saw her eyes widen. He moaned when he felt something warm, soft and yielding engulf the tip of his member. He blanched when he looked down and saw the top of Angelica’s head, her mouth taking more and more of it. “Angie, Angelica.” Angelica released him with a loud smack of her lips. Her bewildered look only made desire stir even more inside of Alexander. He pushed her back against the bed and kissed her hungrily. “I can’t take that right now, not after so much time,” he whispered hoarsely into her ears. Angelica smiled and raked her nails across his back, as he pushed a finger insider her core. His thumb reached for her hard little nub of pleasure, stroking it. Angelica shook her head. Her whole body trembled. Alexander looked up at her. She was biting her lips, her eyes closed. “Let me hear you, love.” “I can’t, Alexi,” she cried. Alexander slid another finger inside and pressed harder against her clitoris. “No, I…” tears came to her eyes. “You’re not with him, love. I want to hear you moan, Angel, I want to hear you express your pleasure.” He pulled out his fingers and positioned himself over her gaping hole. Gently he pushed the top of his swollen cock inside her. Angelica lifted her hips and entwined her legs around Alexander. He shoved into her, and easily slipped inside. “Angie.” It was a rough, breathless whisper. Alexander hugged her to him, and slowly began to thrust into her. “My angel, let me hear you,” he pleaded in her ear. He kissed her hard, and pinched her nipples. He heard her gasp. Encouraged, he lowered his hand almost to the point where they were united. Angelica gasped again as she felt Alexander’s hand reach between them and nudge her clit. A tiny moan escaped her, as he pressed harder and took her breast into his mouth.

A louder one ensued, when he switched breasts and he thrust with more force as she raked her nails down his back. “Angelica, Angie, moan for me, let me feel your pleasure.” Angelica opened her eyes. Alexander groaned. Angelica looked at him with wide-open chocolate brown eyes. Her eyes were glazed and yet extremely alert. Her body was smooth and yielding beneath him. With every thrust she pushed back enthusiastically. At every kiss he gave her, she kissed back, her nails raked his back repeatedly, her legs entwined around him and splayed wider, inviting him to dig into her with abandon. “Alexi.” It was a tiny whisper, but it threw him off the edge. With savage abandon he grabbed her hips and thrust hard. Her moans began as stifled sounds, hidden behind pursed lips. “Angie, please,” he begged. As Alexander repeated her name over and over again, pushing with abandon, Angelica’s moans grew louder. “I love you, my angel.” “Alexi, Alexi,” she shouted. With a grunt Alexander reached his climax. “I love you, Alexi,” she whispered as the shudders began to die down, and Alexander collapsed over her, soaked in sweat. Alexander lifted his gaze and kissed her. He made to move, but she stopped him. “Just a little longer,” she asked him. He nodded, and accommodated himself over her body, listening to the steady thrumming of her heart.

Chapter )ine They woke up a few hours later, still embracing. Alexander rolled over to one side and covered them with the sheets, then curled up against Angelica. She accommodated herself into him, like a spoon. “Alexi,” she whispered after a moment. “Mmmm?” “What are we going to do?” Alexander opened his eyes. He had been enjoying the simple pleasure of holding Angelica in his arms and had not given a thought to what they would do. “We’ll find a way,” he said firmly. “But--” “Shush, we’ll speak of it in the morning, all right? You worry too much,” he scolded kindly. Angelica smiled. She took his hand, which surrounded her waist, and kissed it. “It’s hard not to worry.” “I know what you mean.” “Alexi.” “Yes, love?” “You’re going to hate me for what I’m going to ask.” “I could never hate you and you know it.” “Tell me what you have really been doing these past ten years.” Alexander stiffened. Angelica turned in his arms and looked up at him. Gently she caressed his face, and kissed his lips. Alexander smiled. “You always knew how to convince me, even when we were children.” Angelica laughed. It was a clear sound, one that warmed Alexander’s heart. “I’ll do it on one condition.” Angelica snuggled against Alexander’s bare chest. “I have a right to know what you have been through.” “It’s not like I have a choice,” she mumbled. “No, you don’t.” Alexander smiled and kissed her.

“Where to begin?” he mused. “From that night.” Alexander sighed. “I still remember that night as if it had been yesterday…” Alexander and Angelica hurried away from the throng of people at the dance. Angelica had already danced with all the suitors her father had proposed and as soon as she had had the chance, she had run off to find Alexander. He had patiently waited for her near the door, painfully conscious that although he had been invited to the dance because it was a town event, Angelica’s father did not favor him enough to allow him to dance with his daughter. His mood lightened as soon as he saw Angelica approach. She was wearing a simple sky blue gown, and her hair was up in a low bun. Matching pearl earrings and necklace adorned her ears and pale neck. White gloves up to her mid-arm covered the creamy skin of her hands. He felt his heart in his throat and a stirring in his groin as he glanced at the woman he loved. “You looked pretty handsome yourself,” Angelica interrupted with a giggle. Alexander mock glared at her. “I felt pretty awkward,” he admitted. Angelica smiled. Angelica had danced with every single suitor her father had proposed though her mind had been all through the night on only one man: Alexander. She had promised him that as soon as she could, she would go with him, and they could sit in one of the darkened drawing rooms to talk or play cards. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw him. He was quietly standing near the large oak doors, inconspicuously staring across the dance floor, looking for her. He was dressed in a dark long coat, with a simple white chemise. 6othing as fancy as many of the other men she had danced with, and yet, he carried it with such elegance that he surpassed any man in her house that night. “Elegance?” “I’ve always thought you had natural charm. I still do, Alexi.” Alexander kissed her temple. “Shush, now, when it’s your turn to tell your part you may speak.”

Angelica giggled and waited. Together the pair walked away from the dancing floor and headed for one of the off-limit drawing rooms in the left wing of the house. Angelica lit several candles while Alexander shuffled the pack of cards he had hidden in one of his pockets. They sat next to each other and began to play. More than once, their hands brushed against each other and lingered in that touch. Alexander and Angelica had been childhood playmates. Angelica’s nanny had been friendly with Alexander’s mother and more than once they brought the playful children together. When Angelica turned eight, they had switched her nanny for a governess, and she spent most of her time indoors. 6onetheless, she always seemed to find a moment to run out and play with Alexander. Alexander himself became engaged in school and learning the trade of a carpenter. But he too, also found ways to go and see Angelica. Although, Angelica’s father was the richest man in town, he always celebrated Angelica’s birthday and Christmas with large parties to which the whole town was invited. When Angelica turned twelve, he began to invite foreign men and their sons. 6onetheless, he still invited the town out of politeness. During those parties, Angelica, her manners always impeccable, would dance at least once with the other men, but the rest of the night, she would spend with Alexander. It was not until the summer in which they were fourteen years old that they realized that their feelings ran deeper than mere friendship. Angelica was the first to notice. It took a long afternoon of insisting, prodding and tickling for her to confess what bothered her. When she finally told him that she thought she liked him as a little more than a friend, Alexander thought she meant that she liked him like a brother. It was not until two days later, when they had been playing hide and seek that he realized what she meant. Alexander was ‘it’. He still recalled the moment he realized that his feelings were more than those of a best friend. He saw Angelica from behind, hidden in between two large trees that had grown too close together. The sun fell through the green leaves in tiny patterns, highlighting her hair. Angelica turned in his direction, and

his breath had hitched in his throat. A single ray lighted her face, and her beautiful features became illuminated in such a way, that Alexander felt his chest constrict. He ran towards her, and without warning grabbed her by the waist and planted a sloppy kiss on her lips. Angelica gasped and before he could stop her, she ran off. Cursing himself for being so impetuous, he sat down and leaned against a tree. 6ot long after, a shadow covered his sunlight. Alexander opened his eyes and found Angelica staring down at him. She opened her mouth to speak, but shook her head and began to pace back and forth in front of him. Enthralled and unsure of what to say, Alexander watched her move. Finally, to his surprise, she stopped short in front of him, bent over and kissed him on the lips. After that day, and without ever saying anything, they became a couple. Every chance they could they would escape to do things together. Many times, Alexander called on her just to sit and watch her do homework. Other times, she’d come to his house and watch him work with the wood. Summer was the time they could spend more time together, neither of them having school or any important chores to do. They would run into the nearby forest and spend the day together, making plans about their future. That night, ten years ago, Alexander felt his concentration breaking. Angelica accused him of not paying attention to the game; his response, as simple and as complicated as bending over and kissing her. His eyes had stayed open for a single moment, and he saw as Angelica’s eyes opened wide and then closed. He closed his own eyes and threw the cards aside. With trembling hands, he pulled Angelica to him. He felt Angelica shiver, and thinking she was cold, pulled her even closer. Her breasts bumped against his chest and he felt a stirring in his loins. He deepened their kiss, tasting the sweetness of her mouth. His fingers nudged against her bare shoulder and his heart seemed to stop beating. With trembling hands, he began to caress her chest. 6ever in his life would he figure out how it ended as it did. 6ow, he knew control. Then, he was unable to control himself as his hands found her breasts and squeezed them, his mouth becoming dry. Angelica did not stop him. To the contrary, her own tiny hands found their way beneath his vest and shirt, and she too prodded and explored. With shaking fingers and an unsteady heartbeat, he undid the lace of her dress. He vividly remembered how

after helping him, her hands began to undo the laces of his breeches. He recalled her gasp when his hard cock sprung free and the feeling of heavenly delight when she stroked him, frightened at first, then, with strength and security. 6ow, he knew that she had barely fondled him, but then it had felt like an eternity, and he had begged her to stop. He knew the basics of lovemaking, but he had never imagined it was like that. He had gently pushed Angelica back on the floor and given her a clumsy kiss. He felt Angelica’s shaking breath on his ear, and eagerly positioned himself above her. Her hands guided him. He pushed and saw her grimace of pain, but she insisted that he continue. I want you, she had told him. Alexander pushed hard, and broke her maidenhead. He stayed still, kissing away her tears. When she nodded that he could proceed, he pushed again. Their rhythm was slow but steady. Angelica’s grimace of pain turned to one of elation. He pumped harder as every little moan of hers encouraged him to move on. He felt her walls contract around him, and unable to take it anymore, he whispered into her ear, I love you, my angel. They made love two more times that night, all other thoughts forgotten until they heard Angelica’s father calling out her name. Angelica grew pale in his arms, suddenly conscious of what they had done. They began to dress hurriedly, but did not make it in time, as Angelica’s father burst open the door and found them, still partly naked on the floor. The old man threw himself at Alexander and punched him, knocking him off his feet. Angelica screamed, and her father grabbed her roughly by the arm, screaming at her. He stopped at the door, turned to Alexander, and told him to get out of his house if he wanted to live. Angelica cried desolately next to her father. Her father pulled her away and the last thing Alexander heard was Angelica screaming his name and her father telling her that he was going to throw her into a nunnery. Every day, Alexander went to her house. Every day they denied him the entrance. One day, one week after the incident, while he waited outside, hoping to catch a glimpse of Angelica, he saw her. She was being dragged away by her governess, and pulled into a carriage. Alexander screamed after her. Angelica turned and, kicking her nanny in the shin, she ran off. They embraced. The coach driver tore Angelica from his arms. They took her away screaming and crying. Alexander tried to run after her, but the coach’s assistant had pinned him to the ground. “Angelica, I will come back, I promise,” he

swore, unsure if she had heard him. Once the coach had driven away, the assistant let him stand up. A man coughed behind him. Alexander turned and found Angelica’s father. “He told me to go with him, so I obeyed.” “You met my father after they drove me away.” Alexander nodded. “You might not like what I’m going to tell you now.” Angelica stood up in bed. Sitting cross-legged across from Alexander, she stared at him, before nodding that he should go on. “Sir, please, where are you taking her?” “Somewhere far away from you and your vile hands.” “Sire, I love her. I will have her hand in marriage.” Edward Thomson laughed in his face. “Look at yourself, boy. You are a mere carpenter, dressed in dirty rags. You were lucky enough that you even got to talk to my daughter. That you got to touch her…well, let’s pretend that never happened.” “But, sir, I love her,” Alexander insisted. “Listen to me, you idiot boy, Angelica is the only daughter I have, I will not have her waste her life away with someone who is not up to her status and who cannot provide for her and for myself. You are nothing to me and you are nothing to her. What you two shared was a mistake, and it will always be so. Be glad that I have not denounced you for seducing my daughter. 6ow, get out of my house and don’t ever come back, or I swear to God I’ll find a way to get you out of the way.” Alexander stood stock-still. “6o.” Edward turned around. He lifted his arm and slapped him hard. Alexander stumbled. “I’ll explain again so that your dimwitted mind can understand. You are poor as a rat. Angelica has had the upbringing of a queen. She will marry a man of wealth and escalate positions in English society. 6o matter what you do, you will always be inferior to her. Yes, my boy, do not deny it to yourself.” Alexander took a step forward and out of nowhere, a gun appeared. Edward cocked the gun and pointed straight at Alexander. “6ow, I’ll tell you again, if you come back I will kill you. If you get near Angelica, I will kill you. You don’t care for your life, do you? I’ll put it this way: don’t ever come back, because if you do, I

will beat Angelica with my own hands, in front of you. Yes, I would be quite capable. I will beat her senseless, I will beat her until she hates you for doing this to her.” “Sire,” Alexander tried to take a step forward, but Edward was quicker. He tripped him and placed his boot over his chest. He pointed the gun at his head. “I’ll tell her you tried to kill me and I had to shoot you, or I’ll tell her you killed yourself. Maybe even, I’ll tell her the truth, that you never really loved her and that all you ever felt for her was lust for her body and her money.” Alexander felt a tear fall down his face. Edward laughed. “Crying, are we? Are you afraid she’ll believe me over the sweet words you whispered in her ear? Yes, I would not be surprised, because after all, I am her father, and I control her life. What story shall we tell?” “Sir, please,” Alexander croaked. Edward pulled back his hand and struck Alexander. His nose began to bleed and it mingled with the tears that ran down his face. “If you want to live… if you want me to tell her simply to forget you… then swear it, Alexander Deveyois . Swear to me that you will never come back for her.” Alexander trembled in both rage and fear. He was trapped. He needed to get out and be able to think of a way to rescue his angel. “I swear it.” Edward removed the gun, laughing. “Good choice. 6OW, GET OUT.” “My father, he threatened to beat me? He hit you? ” Angelica interrupted. Alexander nodded. “I’m sorry, love.” “But, he has never laid a single finger on me…he never…he was not a very loving father, but… he denied you, because… you had less than us? He knew I loved you, he knew, I told him over and over again.” “Hush now,” Alexander said, cradling her in his arms. “What is done is done. He separated us for a while, but now we are together again.” Angelica nodded. “What did you do afterwards?” “I ran away. I returned home. My parents were nowhere to be seen, so I took their secret stash of money, a horse, some clothes and I

ran off. I did not want to be anywhere near our town. I needed…I needed to get out, because if I thought for more than an instant that I would never see you again, I would go insane.” Angelica squeezed his hand in comfort. “Like I told you before, I kept myself busy with odd jobs in the towns around, until I finally made it to London. Here, I began to carry and load people’s luggage. It was a respectful job, but after a while, it became a trap. Angelica, everywhere I looked I would see you. All the young girls became you, in one way or another. I worked myself so hard that I would fall into dreamless sleep. If I dreamt, I would always dream of you, and that, I could not bear.” Alexander buried his face in his hands. Angelica took them away and kissed them. “In the train station I met a young man, named Odie. He was a good-hearted man. He saved me that one time I got shot. I wished to die, but he insisted that I shouldn’t…He died of tuberculosis. I was reckless, Angelica. I did not have the courage to kill myself, so instead I got into silly fights. I would purposely make noise when I was thieving so that they would try to shoot me… I never did it for the money. I did it because I wanted to end my life, because I wanted to erase you from my memory. It didn’t work.” He smiled. “Fortunately, Victor found me, and took me in. He gave me the hope I had lost. He taught me things like if you do not take the risk, you never will know if you can win or lose. He did not take you out of my head, that was impossible, but he helped me turn my love for you into something positive. I became acute as a businessman. I learned patience, I learned steadiness, and I learned planning. I took risks and many times, I lost, but many other times I won. And through it all, I felt that I was doing this for you, and that if I had been able to rise, then I could get you back. I dreamt that if I became someone important, your father would accept if I asked for your hand, and he would forget the oath. I had so many dreams, and you were in all of them, because none of my life had any sense if I could not have you back.” “Almost two years after I began to work with Victor, I got in touch with my parents. I did not return to town because I was afraid of meeting your father. Now, I can admit that I was also afraid that I would encounter you. I was not yet ready for that to happen. When we met again I wanted it to be perfect. My mother told me what had

happened to you and where you had been taken. I could not believe my luck when I discovered who your husband was and the sort of business he had. Deviously, with Dreiderich’s help, I began to ruin your husband’s firm. When I decided that he was desperate for any sort of aid, I presented myself to him. Like I explained before, he was reluctant at first, but finally took me in with open arms, the bastard. A few months later, I moved to Hackseville. I was finally ready to face you.” Angelica rested her head on Alexander’s shoulder. “You could have come back earlier,” she whispered. “I will regret every day of my life not coming back earlier. I spent almost four years in the street, ruining my life. I thought many times of going back and simply stealing you away…but the oath I had made to your father kept me at bay. I did not want him to harm you and I did not want him to tell you that I had used you, because it was not true. And then again, it was all because I was fearful that you had forgotten about me, and you were my only link to life. Then Victor took me in, and he kept me so busy, learning and advancing. I wanted to go back to you a different man, Angie, one that you could look at and be proud of. One that your father would not reject.” “I have always been proud of you.” “I know. I was a fool. But there was also the matter of the oath. However, that was fortunately resolved, thanks to Victor.” “What do you mean?” “I had already decided to do everything in my power to gain you back, but Victor gave me one last gift on his deathbed. He left me everything, including his title. I could legally use the name Huntington. I became Alexander Huntington, and that broke the oath with your father, because Alexander Deveyois had sworn, not Huntington. I will always be grateful to Victor.” Alexander closed his eyes and brought Angelica closer. That elderly man had saved his life out of the goodness of his heart, and because of that he had been able to recover Angelica. “I never gave the fact that you were married a thought. I planned that I would destroy the bastard that had married a young innocent girl for money. I would destroy him and take his wife, you, away from under his nose. However, when I saw you at that ball, I realized that things were not as easy as simply whisking you away. I was so nervous that night. All the thoughts about your marriage,

which I had tried to avoid, hurried back to me: Were you happy? Had you fallen in love with your husband? Did you have any children? Had you forgotten me? Did you no longer love me? I was tempted to leave, but I had made it so far, I had to see you again, if only for a moment. Then, when I stepped out from behind the column and you turned around…I felt that you were almost looking for me.” “I was.” Alexander cupped her chin and looked into her eyes. “You were?” “Every day for the past ten years.” “Tell me all about it, Angelica. Do not leave anything out, I beg you.”

Chapter Ten Angelica nodded. “After they discovered us, my father threw me into my room and locked the door. I heard him shout for my nanny, but it was a while before anyone came into my room.” Angelica wept. It seemed like the torrent of tears she held inside had no end. Why had she succumbed to that sexual feeling? She did not know, and she really did not care. For her it had been more than sexual pleasure, it was the first time Alexi said he loved her. For her, that night was simply a confirmation of what her heart and soul had been telling her for the past two years: she loved Alexander Deveyois and she’d go to the end of the earth with him if need be. She feared, though, what her father would do. She had never in her sixteen years seen him so angry. Would he hurt Alexander? 6o, she was sure her father was incapable of anything so evil; after all, he had brought her up with great care. Perhaps, he did not pay as much attention to her as she sometimes wished, but he had been loving and caring when she was a small child, and he had always given her the best of everything. What more could a young girl ask for? Finally, in between musings and tears she had awoken to someone shaking hear. Her nanny slapped her hard on the cheek and Angelica began to weep once more. What was happening? “You little whore. Did I bring you up to go frolicking with men? I knew you were friends with that poor carpenter, but to lose your virginity to him?” The maid angrily slapped her again. “You have reduced your price in the market in such a drastic way that I would not be surprised if your father sent you to a nunnery, for that is what you deserve for being a whore and engaging in carnal activity before holy matrimony. 6ow, get dressed, bitch. Your father will want to see you sooner or later.” Angelica stared after Mathilde. The French woman had never been unkind, even if a little harsh at times with her lessons and extremely devoted to the word of God. Angelica obeyed her without question. She got dressed and waited, but no one appeared. Breakfast time came and went, lunch followed and before she knew it, dinnertime was upon her. She was desperate. 6ot only had she not had anything to eat, but also she had not heard a word from either Alexander or her father. What if

something had happened to them? She frantically paced around the room until the door slammed open and her father strode in. “Drink.” He gave her a glass with water the color of mud. Angelica swallowed it, though she almost vomited from the disgusting flavor of the pungent liquid. Without another word, Edward left her alone. The next day they brought her meals, though they would not let her out of her room. Angelica spent the day reading and looking out the window, in hopes that she would see Alexander. She thought he had seen him twice, but she could not be sure, and she did not dare ask Mathilde if there was a man outside, for fear of the repercussions. Hopes that she would marry Alexander began to fade away by the sunset of the third day. Something was clearly wrong. Exactly a week after the loss of her virginity, when Angelica thought she would go crazy without any news of either Alexander or her father, the door opened and Mathilde began to prepare a suitcase. “Where are we going?” Mathilde smiled, rather unpleasantly, but did not reply. Angelica sat in an easy chair, feeling sick. Once she finished, she ordered Angelica to follow her. Outside, the older lady grabbed Angelica’s arm and marched her to the carriage. Angelica looked around in hopes that she would see Alexander. Her hopes lifted as she spotted him running towards her. Mathilde also noticed. She began to push her fiercely, in an attempt to get her into the carriage. Angelica pushed, shoved and kicked; finally, making contact with her nanny’s knee, she ran off into Alexander’s arms. What happened next was a blur to Angelica. Arms, legs, she was grabbed by the chauffeur and was obliged to release Alexi’s hand. She screamed, shouted and cried but they would not put her down. As she was being led away, she saw the driver’s helper run towards Alexander. She saw him fall, and stay down, but through all the mess, she somehow was able to hear his promise to her: “I will come back.” Desolate, they dragged her away. “They took me to a convent. The nuns were not unkind, but they were intolerant. Every day, they would tell me how I had misbehaved, how I had sold my soul to the devil. Every day I was obliged to pray repeatedly, and to ask forgiveness for my carnal sin.

By the time my father came to fetch me, I felt dead inside. I had wronged God, I had wronged my parents, I had even wronged you by seducing you.” “You did not,” Alexander began to protest. “I know, but that is how I felt.” Angelica hesitated before continuing. As she stepped out into the sunlight, her arm firmly grasped by her father, she looked around. The world around her seemed brighter and more beautiful than she remembered. The sky was blue, dusted with white clouds, the trees sprouted flowers and the grass was a vivid green, almost as vivid as Alexander’s eyes. A pang of guilt, pain and, she realized with a start, anger, ran through her. He had promised he would return. He had promised and yet it had been two months, two long months in which they had told her repeatedly that what she had done had been a mistake. He had promised. He had not returned and yet, through her anger Angelica knew that she still loved him. As the carriage rode away, Edward began to speak. Angelica sat up straight. Marriage? “Alexander,” she muttered. “Is gone,” her father told her. “He ran off. His parents do not know where he is, no one does.” He patted her hand, and she looked away trying to hide the tears. Gone? Her Alexi––gone? She wiped away the tears. Two months listening to how perverse she was, and yet, she still felt that what she had done that night with Alexander had nothing evil in it. To the contrary, it had been something so magical, that she still shuddered from the memory. Her father interpreted her shudder for a chill and covered her with a soft blanket. Angelica snuggled into it. She leaned against the window and closed her eyes. It would be all right, Alexi had promised and he was a man of his word. Angelica opened her eyes. Darkness surrounded her. She heard raised voices. She turned the handle to the carriage and stumbled out. “Father?” “Here, poppet.” She went to her father. “Where are we?” “On our way to Hackseville.” “Hackseville?”

“To get you married.” “Alexander,” she asked with what little hope she could muster. She saw her father arch his eyebrows, his eyes reflecting his anger. “Forget him, Angelica. I told you, he has run off like the coward he truly is. 6ow, get back into the coach before you get a cold.” “But, Father, who am I to marry?” Her father smiled. “Do not worry, dear. I have picked out a good husband for you.” On their way to Hackseville they picked out clothes for Angelica’s wedding. She wanted nothing. Her father would tell her naught about her marriage, and the woman he had hired to be her maiden knew nothing. Finally, they made it to Hackseville early in the morning. That same evening, in the small chapel, Angelica’s father introduced her to the man that would be her husband: Ferdinand Burges. Alexander hugged her tightly, as her eyes glazed with tears. “Father?” “Meet the man that will provide for you from now on, Angelica. Ferdinand is a good man, and a wealthy man, He will treat you fairly. You are to obey him as you obey me, be loyal to him like you are to me. You are his now, my daughter. Be happy.” Angelica began to cry silently. The maid wiped the tears away, her face a reflection of her own sadness. “Do not cry. This is the happiest day of your life, my daughter. After your accident you should be glad that Ferdinand has taken you in; any other man would have let you rot in the nunnery.” As the wedding began, Angelica resigned herself. Alexander would not come, her father had sold her like a pig in the market, and now, she was doomed forever to be with a man twenty years her elder, whom she did not know. There were no festivities for her wedding. 6o laughter, no wedding cake, no music, there were only tears and sorrow. Ferdinand took her home and made her his that night. “Women are always silent.” Alexander trembled. “I will kill him. I’ll kill the bastard.”

“No you will not, “she stated flatly. “After some time, I became used to not making a single sound. I would just lie beneath him and wait for him to finish. I learned to obey, I learned to be silent and do whatever he pleased. If I did not, he would beat me. The matter was simple.” Alexander jumped out of bed and began to pace the room. He was livid with rage. “How dare he, how dare he?” He spoke through clenched teeth. “Alexander, come back to bed. It really makes no difference now.” “He beat you that night I had dinner at your home for the first time.” “Ah, I knew you had heard.” Angelica smiled. “You were always so impetuous when it came to matters concerning me.” “If he had been in that parlor I would have killed him,” Alexander spat. “Fortunately, he dragged me upstairs.” “Did he--” “Hurt me badly? Nothing more than usual, I have had worst beatings at his hands. Now, get back to bed, Alexi.” Alexander smiled. “I might be impetuous, but you were always bossy.” “Only with you, love.” Alexander climbed back into bed and kissed her. Their tongues mingled with passion and her hands strayed lower, brushing against his growing cock. She recalled vividly the penis that had taken her virginity at the age of sixteen, and it had nothing to do with the larger member, surrounded by curly hairs, that she was now caressing. “Stop that. I want you to finish telling me what else has happened in your life,” he scolded, holding her at arm’s length. Angelica sighed and pulled back. “Nothing much, really. Fortunately, Ferdinand is sterile so we were unable to have any children. While he worked, I dedicated myself to the household chores. One day, he came back saying Kate, Reginald’s wife, was going to start caring for the local orphanage and he wanted me to help and give a proper image of him as a lover of children and such. That orphanage was part of my salvation. I

dedicated most of my waking hours to it. The other part was your memory. Every night, after Ferdinand used me, I would lock myself in the bathroom and remember your touch, your smile––your caress. Your love. You were my link to reality, though you became nothing more than a far-away dream.” Alexander hugged her. “You told me you tried to take your life.” “Yes, two weeks after the wedding. I was desperate, Alexi. I thought I was going to die. Ferdinand beat me every other day. Lying with him at night was brutal and frightening. You did not return and not even my father cared about what happened to me. So I stole a kitchen knife, went into the bathroom, filled the tub and, you can imagine the rest.” Gently, Alexander grabbed her wrists and inspected them closely. With tenderness he kissed the scars still visible on her pale skin. “Will you ever forgive me?” he whispered. “There is nothing to forgive, love.” Alexander opened his mouth to protest, but she placed a single finger over it, silencing him. “None of our actions were done purposely. Neither of us wished to harm the other. Neither of us wished to be separated from the other. We both suffered, Alexi. We… we are together at last, that is what matters.” Alexander captured her mouth in his, and she sighed with contentment. “I love you, Angelica. I’ve loved you for so long that I’m scared that when the sun comes out I will wake up to discover that this has all been a dream.” Angelica shivered in between his arms. “I am already afraid that this is another one of my dreams, or a product of my imagination. I’m scared that when I wake, I’ll find Ferdinand lying next to me, and my life will be even more miserable. I love you, Alexander, and I do not think I would be able to continue if this was naught but a dream.” Alexander held her at arm’s length. He stared at her with fierceness, then kissed her hard. They tumbled back onto the bed and Angelica splayed her legs open. She was wanton and waiting, desire coursing through her as the man she loved whispered her name

repeatedly. She reached her peak and screamed out the name of the only man she had loved more than her life, “Alexi.”

Chapter Eleven The week in London sped by. They had taciturnly come to an agreement not to mention Ferdinand or returning to Hackseville. Aware that they couldn’t stay in bed all day, they went out every morning and abided by their duties. They visited people, places, and stores to learn about organizing a proper ball. They also went more than once to Alexander’s office. Whatever they did, they did it together. However, they were close together but unable to touch, unable to hold hands, unable to do anything except ache for the other even as they stood side by side. They yearned to be free, but every time Alexander introduced Angelica to someone, she was always Mrs. Burges. Every time Angelica spoke to Alexander, he was always Lord Huntington. They were a chasm apart. It was for this reason that they forsook many of the activities Alexander had prepared: balls, theatre, dinners in fancy restaurants… They preferred to lock themselves in one of the hotel suites and stay tangled in each other’s arms, talking and making love. Before they knew it, Saturday evening arrived. The ball was mainly uneventful, though they met several persons who seemed interested in the idea of a country charity ball. They were quietly talking in a corner when Dreiderich approached them. The large blond man hugged Alexander and bowed to Angelica. He looked from one to the other for a moment and burst out laughing. Alexander smiled. “Excuse us for a moment.” Angelica curtsied and left the men alone. “Thank you.” Dreiderich looked surprised. “What for?” “For all the years of advice and friendship.” “Awww, so love makes you sentimental?” Dreiderich replied with a slap in the back. Alexander smiled whilst Dreiderich’s laughter faded. “You respect my advice and my friendship?” “I just told you.” “Aye. Have you thought about what to do about her husband?” Alexander shook his head.

“Do not return to Hackseville You two are bent on honors and mannerism. You, my friend, spent almost ten years holding yourself true to an oath made to a maniac. Do not return. Run away now.” Alexander’s eyes widened. He had not given it much thought, but he always presumed that they would go back. Now Dreider was giving him a completely new option. “I’ll have to talk to Angelica.” Dreiderich smiled and walked off. Alexander found Angelica sipping some wine on her own. “Shall we leave? I think we need to talk.” Angelica nodded. Inconspicuously, the couple left the grand London charity ball. They made the way back to the hotel in silence. Each of them remained lost in their own thoughts, yet their hands gripped together. Finally, they made it into Alexander’s room. Alexander brought Angelica towards him and kissed her passionately. “Run away with me, Angie,” he whispered breathlessly. “You know I cannot, not yet.” “Angelica,” Alexander began to pace, trying to organize his thoughts and trying to understand. “Why?” “You know why. I can’t leave something just like that, and I do not mean Ferdinand. I mean the orphanage, the children.” “Why are you so damned proper?” Alexander hissed. Angelica smiled sadly. “Just like you are hasty for both of us. Just wait for the ball, Alexi. Let me try to get a divorce from Ferdinand. Let us do things the right way.” “Angie, we’ve had to wait ten years because we wanted to do things the right way … will you have us wait another ten years?” “Alexi,” She held out her hands, which Alexander took. “Think, my love. If we run away, Ferdinand will chase after us.” “I have much more money than he has.” “I know you do, but do you think that would stop the police from throwing either of us into prison? Or if not the police, he will have enough money to hire an assassin.” “Do you think he is capable?” “Of that and more, love. Do you think that it does not hurt me to separate myself from you once more, to go back to the hands of a

man that has beaten me and treats me like a trophy? I do not want that, but I must.” “We will be separated forever if we go back.” “No,” Angelica replied, “you did not lose faith in these ten years, do not lose it now, love.” Alexander sighed. He pulled Angelica into his embrace. “I will wait until we host the ball for the orphanage. After that, I will ask him to grant you a divorce … if he does not, we will run away, do you hear me? I will not be separated from you ever again.” “Nor I from you.” Alexander kissed her with fury and tenderness at the same time. “Make love to me, Alexander. Give me strength.” **** They took the train early the next day and stopped at the same inn where they had rested on their way to London. “Angie, are you sure? We can still turn back, you know.” “I am certain. Do not think about it anymore, Alexi. Enjoy these last peaceful moments. For another two months we will not be able to openly show our love.” Alexander hugged her. His chest constricted from the thought that tomorrow morning he would be dropping her off at Ferdinand’s house. He closed his eyes, trying to dissipate the image of the old man bedding his angel. That was the last time they touched. Afraid that the driver knew Ferdinand or anyone in his surroundings, Angelica and Alexander refrained from touching during the carriage ride. Alexander glanced at Angelica as they arrived at her house. She had a calm demeanor, but her hands were gripped together tightly. He got off the carriage and helped her out. An electric shock seemed to run down his arm, and he felt the impulse to pick her up and run away with her. Angelica glanced at him and smiled. He knew she was trying to look confident, but he could see her lower lip trembling. Tucking her arm into his, he sighed and walked her to the doorstep. “Welcome, Mrs. Burges, Lord Huntington,” the butler said, opening the door and ushering them inside.

He took them to one of the fine drawing rooms, were they waited for Ferdinand to come and greet them. They did not have to wait long. Ferdinand came bounding down the stairs. “Welcome to both of you. I surmise you had a nice trip?” “Yes, excellent,” Alexander replied, feigning good humor. “The weather was splendid, considering this time of year, and we both learned quite a lot about charity balls.” “Is that right, Angelica?” “Yes, sir, it was quite insightful,” Angelica replied, her voice barely a thin line. “Good, good, I’m glad. Alex, why don’t you come next door and we will share a glass of brandy. Worry not, I will not pester you with business matters until tomorrow,” Ferdinand said, noticing his grimace. They left Angelica without another word. Alexander had barely been with Ferdinand ten minutes when he excused himself and left the old man’s company as fast as he could. If he stayed another minute, he would punch him. As he got on the carriage he looked up to the room where he presumed Angelica would be. Sadness overtook his heart. Only two months, he thought. He tried to think positively. It wasn’t like he was not going to see her in those two months. They would be organizing the ball together. That was his only consolation. **** Two days later, Alexander felt strong enough to go visit Ferdinand in his office and talk business with him. He greeted some other employees and opened the door to the office without knocking. Rage clouded his vision. Ferdinand sat on his chair, his eyes glazed, his shirt unbuttoned and his hands upon the breasts of a plump blonde who jumped enthusiastically on his cock. Alexander slammed the door shut. The plump blond squealed and Ferdinand turned to look at him with a grin. “I’ll see you later, Cynthia.” The girl hurried to redress, put on her bonnet and ran out of the office. “What do you think you’re doing?” Alexander asked through clenched teeth.

“Enjoying myself. You should try it sometime too; you’re pretty young to be so worked up.” “Worked up? You are cheating on Angelica!” he accused. Ferdinand laughed. “Goodness gracious, Alexander! What husband in his right mind does not cheat on his wife, even more so if she is like a corpse when you are fucking her?” Alexander raised his fist. He slammed it down on the table. “That woman is your wife.” “A convenient little one she is too,” Ferdinand agreed. “She cares for the house, gives me a good image, but she’s a fucking load. I only married her because she came with quite a lot of money behind her.” Alexander took a step back as if he’d been slapped. He began to pace the room in large strides. He bit his lips so hard he drew blood. He would kill the man. He would kill him. “You bought her?” he finally asked. “Yeah, seems the poor bitch got herself into a mess and some lucky lad took her virginity. Shame he killed her spirit with it,” Ferdinand said noncommittally. He stood up and finished making himself presentable. He went to the cupboard that stored his spirits and poured some liquor. “Here,” he offered Alexander a glass, “you look like you need it.” Alexander took the yellow liquid and downed it. It did nothing to calm his anger. “How can you?” “Listen to me, Huntington, I know you have a thing for my wife. I’m not stupid. That’s fine with me. You can fuck her all you want if you enjoy fucking lifeless bitches, but don’t you dare question me. You might have saved my business, you might have control over it, but you have no control over my personal life. Now, let me remind you this, Angelica is mine. She is my wife. If I want to cheat on her, I do, if I want to beat her I do, if I want her to kneel down and suck my cock, I make her do it.” Alexander lifted his fist but Ferdinand blocked him. “Now, get out of my office. Go home and fuck my pretty wife if you want, but let me tell you this, just to get it into your dim mind, she is mine, and she will stay like that until death do us part. I will never give her a divorce; I would rather kill her, than have the shame of divorcing that woman.”

“I will––” Alexander began. “Kill me?” Ferdinand laughed. “Why don’t you try?” Alexander turned on his heels and left the office, slamming the door so hard behind him that the structure shook. People turned to look at him, but he stormed past them without a second glance. He would kill him. Kill him. Not only did he hurt Angelica––abuse her–– but now this, now this. “Take me to the Burges’,” he ordered his driver. He stumbled out of the coach and knocked hard on the door. Jonathan opened. “Angelica,” he spat out. Jonathan indicated that he should follow him. Alexander followed the butler, a fleeting thought that he would tell Ferdinand that he was on first name terms with Angelica passed through his mind, but quickly evaporated. Ferdinand already knew that there was something between them. So why had he not tried to harm them? He had sworn that he would hurt either of them if anything happened. Had he perhaps been mocking them? Alexander entered the room where Angelica was. When she saw him she became pale and dropped her sewing. “Thank you, Jonathan, you may leave us.” Jonathan nodded and left, closing the door behind him. “Alexander, what’s wrong?” “He knows, Angelica, he knows.” Angelica paled even more. “I know,” she finally said in a small voice. Alexander growled, walked up to her and grabbed her arms roughly. She flinched and he released her. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” he bowed his head. “Did I hurt you?” “No, it’s all right.” “Then why did you flinch?” “I--” “Let me see your arms, Angelica.” “No.” “Angie.” “No.” “Angelica, do not be stubborn on this, let me see your arms, now.”

Angelica quivered. Slowly she pulled up her sleeves as far as she could. Large purplish bruises covered her arms. Alexander’s face contorted in pain. He turned his back on Angelica and began to pace the room. “I’ll kill him, by God, I swear I will kill him,” he claimed. “Alexander, please, you are angry right now. Please, calm down.” “How can you ask me to calm down? He has hurt you for ten years, and he still does, and you want me to calm down? Did you know he has a mistress? That he refers to you as a whore, as the corpse of a bitch?” Angelica lowered her head. “I know he has a mistress, Alex. What could one expect of a man like him? Why would he not have one? He does not love me; it was a marriage of convenience.” “I know, but--” “Shush, come.” Angelica offered her hand, which Alexander took. Reluctantly, he let her lead him to the nearest settee. They sat down, and Angelica caressed his face, smoothing out the wrinkles of worry and despair. She softly, like the touch of a feather, kissed his lips. “Better?” Alexander nodded. “A little. When did you find out that he knew?” “That same day we returned. After you left, he fetched me upstairs. Before I could react he slapped me.” Alexander flinched.

Chapter Twelve “I told you not to let yourself be touched by him, I warned you, bitch. 6ow, you’re going to die.” Angelica cried. It was the first time in years that she had reacted to any of Ferdinand’s threats, but the thought of taking her life, of never again seeing Alexander touched her nerve. Ferdinand smiled with malice. “I see you do not deny it.” He laughed suddenly. “What hold does he have on you? Do you love him?” Angelica refused to answer him, so he began to shake her. “Tell me, or I will kill him instead of you. Do you love him?” Angelica barely nodded. Ferdinand began to laugh. “Good, good.” He sat down, while Angelica remained standing and unmoving. She did not know what that meant. She realized her error in crying, but tears had come to her eyes unbidden and now he knew. He knew and he was going to kill them both. “Take off your clothes.” Angelica obeyed. She stood naked before the eyes of her husband. “Tell me, Angelica, did you like the way he touched you? Did you scream and writhe beneath him? Or were you a dead corpse like you are with me?” Angelica said nothing. Ferdinand laughed again. “6o need to answer. Honestly, I do not care.” He undid his belt and beckoned that she should go to him. Angelica kneeled before him and began to suck on his cock. “You know,” Ferdinand mused as he petted her head, “it was actually fortunate that idiot suggested you go to London with him. It was obvious he took a liking to you from the start. Jonathan told me he had seen you speaking at the ball. Suck harder, whore.” He pressed down on her head, almost choking her. He swatted his belt at her, and Angelica licked and sucked. She tried to imagine it was Alexander in her mouth and quickened her pace. Ferdinand unloaded his come into her mouth, and watched as she swallowed it all. “Stand up.” Angelica obeyed. “Open your arms.” She did so. Before she realized what was coming he swatted his belt hard on her arm.

Angelica bit back a cry. Repeatedly, he hit her arms in the same fashion. “Let’s see what your lover thinks of that.” Alexander gripped her hands roughly. “Let us flee now, Angelica.” “He will truly kill us if we do, Alexander. You heard what I just told you, Jonathan spies for him and who knows how many more people he has that he can trust and that can easily reveal our hiding place. No, we must not flee, that is precisely what he wants.” “I do not understand.” Angelica stood up. Suddenly everything had become clear in her mind as she recalled Ferdinand’s words the night before when he had once more been fucking her harshly. “You are mine. I might have lost my business to that ass, but I still hold you over him.” She had not understood what he meant, but now she did. “For Ferdinand I have always been a prize. He got me free, without having to pay any dowry or anything because I was tainted. A pretty little girl, twenty years younger than him to do with whatever he wanted. His other prize was his business. He had been an only child and the only heir of the family business. Seeing what this town is, you can imagine that it was not much, yet he had cultivated it and made it grow to such proportions that he was beginning to attract attention in London. He had turned Burges and son into Burges & Reginald. He had created a small little empire with his business. He was king of the southern part of the country of London. Lands here were his. Therefore, when things started to go bad he must have panicked. People in London, like yourself, were taking over his terrain, so he was losing his business, his money, everything. Then you came along, and well, you and I know that you destroyed his business on purpose, but he does not, and you came along and saved his business. You saved it, but at the same time, you became ‘king’ of his business and he became a simple associate… he simply became one more. So now, he only had one prize: me.” “Are you saying that he holds you against me?” Alexander asked. “Precisely, it was so perfect that you happened to fall in love with me. Now, Ferdinand Burges, always the powerful man, the king

of the hill, could hold something above the man that had stolen his business: his wife. “ “God,” Alexander muttered. “We both underestimated him, Alexi.” Alexander stood and picked Angelica up. “What are you doing?” “What he expects me to do: fuck his wife.” Alexander lay her down on the settee, and helped her strip. He quickly took off his own clothes. There were no preliminaries as he prepared himself to enter her. “No, wait!” Bewildered, Alexander sat back. Angelica stood up and to his surprise, she climbed over him, pushing his cock deep inside her womb. He heard her suppressed moan in his ear. “Do not hide it, let Jonathan hear it so he can go and tell the bastard, his master.” Angelica nodded and began to roll her hips back and forth. Alexander took her breasts into his mouth and suckled hungrily, like a newborn babe that had not eaten for days. Angelica arched her back and mewled in pleasure. Alexander grabbed her hips and pulled her down hard. Angelica shuddered and cried out her ecstasy. Alexander followed with a breathless sigh. “I hate him,” he whispered. “Shush.” “He’ll hurt you again?” he asked. “Yes.” “Then we will not touch again.” “He will hurt me merely because he will suspect we have touched.” “He could kill you.” “He will not as long as you are in love with me.” Alexander said nothing. “Why don’t we…” he began. “No, not until after the charity ball.” He took her chin into his hand and looked into her eyes. “You are one hard-headed woman, Angelica, but God knows I love you more than my own life.”

Angelica smiled. She opened her mouth to speak, but Alexander placed a finger over her lips. “There is no need. Your eyes tell me everything I need to know.” He kissed her sweetly. After a while, they broke their embrace. “I will come back tomorrow to start organizing that damned ball.” ***•

Time fled by. Angelica and Alexander would spend the greater part of the day together with the excuse of having to organize the ball for the orphanage. It would take place three days before Christmas, in Alexander’s home. Angelica’s moments alone with Alexander were not enough. She longed to run away with him but her sense of duty to the children of the orphanage compelled her to stay a little longer. Ferdinand’s beatings became almost daily. He had taken to doing it with his belt. Sometimes he would hit her arms, other times, her back, and lately her thighs. Angelica endured the beatings as she had throughout the last ten years: in stony silence. Her suffering increased when two weeks before the ball her menses did not arrive. Panicked, she took the coach to Alexander’s home. Martin, Alexander’s servant, received her with a smile. It was no secret to him and Alexander’s only other servant, Virginia, that there was something going on between them. She rushed into Alexander’s office and flew into his arms. “Sweet love, what’s wrong?” he asked her, noticing how distressed she was. Tears came to her eyes. “I’m expecting a child.” Alexander let out a surprised shout; he picked her up and twirled her. “But that is fantastic,” he began to say. “No, it is not! Alexander, Ferdinand is sterile and that is a rumor well known in the town. He will not accept this, he will kill us!” “He does not know, angel. Two more weeks will not make a difference.” “But, I cannot flee with a child,” she whimpered.

“Of course you can. I will care for you, Angie. I will not let anything bad happen to you or our child. Do you hear me?” Angelica nodded and rested her head against Alexander’s chest. The sound of his steady heartbeat helped calm her nerves. **** They had been the first to arrive. Alexander had entertained Ferdinand with some drinks, and business talk, while Angelica prepared the last details for the dance. Guests came and went about. People laughed, danced, drank, and ate. They made small auctions and collected money and goods from many of the assistants. In general, everyone seemed to be having a good time. Among the guests, Angelica was happily surprised to see Antoinette and Annette arrive. The women approached her and she introduced her husband. Ferdinand pretended to show interest in their matters for a few minutes before bowing and excusing himself. As soon as he was gone, the women flocked around her. “He is not good fish… no wonder you fell for dear Alex,” Annette whispered. “He does not treat you well, does he, dear?” Antoinette asked confidentially. Angelica shook her head. “He is my husband.” Both women nodded sadly. Their faces brightened when Alexander approached. “My favorite women,” he said, though he did not specify what he meant by that. He gave each of the elderly women a friendly peck on the cheek. Annette took the opportunity to whisper loudly in his ear, “Take good care of her, she needs it, the poor child.” Alexander nodded solemnly. The old women wandered off and he was left alone with Angelica. “Come with me?” Angelica smiled and nodded. They went into one of the drawing rooms of the house. As soon as the door closed behind them, Alexander bent over and kissed her passionately.

“I have been dying to do that all night,” he whispered. “How are you faring? Both of you?” he asked, placing his hand over her belly. Angelica smiled. Standing on tiptoes, she kissed him back. “We are well.” “Your legs--” “All right.” Alexander sighed in relief. He grasped Angie’s hands and kissed them. He stared at her with admiration in his eyes. “We leave tonight,” he finally stated. “What?” Angelica was startled. She knew he had been planning their escape, but to leave that same night… “Tonight. I will not have you another night in the hands of that bastard.” Angelica opened her mouth to speak and Alexander covered it with his own. She pressed herself against him, drowning in the sweet flavor of his mouth. “No excuses,” he finally said, releasing her. Angelica felt lightheaded. “Where will we go?” “Do not worry about that. I have it all planned out.” Angelica shrugged. “I guess we should go back, people will start wondering where we have gone.” Alexander smiled. “Always the perfect hostess.” Angelica stepped out, but rough hands pushed her back inside. She stumbled and fell against Alexander, who quickly placed her behind him. “I told you not to come back, boy.” “What are you doing here?” Alexander asked. “I got an invitation, besides, I always come to see my dear daughter for Christmas, do I not, Angelica?” “Yes, father,” Angelica whispered. “Ferdinand kindly sent me a letter explaining about the ball, your arrival, and all that nonsense you two have been playing at.” Gripping their hands firmly, neither of them said anything. “What did you think, Alexander Deveyois, that I would not recognize you? I would never forget the pitiful spectacle you made before my feet.” “I am not Alexander Deveyois, I am--”

“Yes, yes, Alexander Huntington, you’re called now. Ferdinand told me what was going on. Of course, the fool does not know that you are the same man that tainted my daughter, but as soon as I read his description, I knew it was you. It does not make a difference you broke your oath and there are consequences for that.” “Father,” Angelica whimpered. “Shut up, bitch. I still cannot believe you opened your legs for him once, but twice?” “Alexander Deveyois broke that oath. I am a man of wealth and position now, Mr. Thomson.” Edward laughed. “So?” “I thought--” “You thought because you are now rich I would bless your union with my daughter? You’re more the fool than I thought, Alexander. You might be rich now, but for me you’ll always be the pitiful boy that cried over a girl that was not to his status.” “You are right,” Alexander acquitted. Edward raised a questioning eyebrow. “Angelica is above both of us.” Edward laughed. “She is above you, son. She is definitely not above me, because she is my daughter and just like I married her off I can do anything with her. I avoided that you ruin her life once, I will not have you ruin her life now.” “Father.” Angelica felt faint. She had never seen her father act in such a way. “Shut up, Angelica, and get out of here, before I fulfill my promise and beat you to death.” “You will not lay a single finger upon her,” Alexander growled. Edward took a menacing step forward. Fed up, Angelica ran from Alexander’s back and stood between both men. “Alexander did not ruin my life. You ruined it,” she hissed angrily, “You married me off to a man that beat me, that hurt me physically and mentally. You stole my happiness away once, and you will not do it again. I will not let you hurt him, I will not let you hurt us, not again.” Edward opened his eyes wide. “You dare defy me?”

“You might be my father, but the day you married me off you told me that I was now Ferdinand’s responsibility. You no longer hold any claim over me.” Angelica knew she was being farfetched. It was true that Ferdinand held more claim over her than her own father, but he still had power over her. However, at that moment, she did not care; all she wanted was to leave with Alexander as soon as possible. She couldn’t take it anymore. “Very well.” Without another word, Edward walked out of the room. Alexander turned her around and hugged her. She trembled violently against his chest. “Alexi, we have to get out of here, I never thought, I never knew, I do not know what he is capable of.” “Quiet now, angel. I’ll fetch Martin and tell him to prepare the coach. It shan’t take him long.” Angelica nodded. Alexander kissed her and held her for a few more minutes. “Go outside. We must pretend that nothing is going to happen.” Straightening her hair and dress, Angelica left the room. “Stop denying it, Angie, I saw you leave that room and now, there goes Lord Huntington?” Angelica jumped at Kate’s voice. “Kate, you’re seeing things,” Angelica joked, turning around to meet her nosy friend. “Angelica please, you’ve barely been around lately. You’ve spent the last two months organizing the ball with him. It is impossible not to notice, besides, the way you two look at each other. Such romance!” “Kate, lower your voice.” “Aha! So you do not deny it,” she whispered with a knowing smile. “Stop babbling nonsense and let’s go pass the bowl to try and collect more funds for the children.” Angelica was in the ballroom, talking with Annette, when she heard a commotion. The music stopped all of a sudden and people began to file out of the room. She followed them. Where was Alexander? Her legs began to feel leaden as fear assaulted her. She heard screams and people shouting, and she turned to Annette. The

old woman shrugged her shoulders, clearly as confused as Angelica. As she reached the place where there were more people, somebody turned to her, and gripped her arm tightly. “I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry.” Angelica stared at her neighbor, uncomprehending. “What?” she began to ask. The throng of people pushed her forward and suddenly she lay on the doorway to the drawing room. The firelight and the candlelight gave the room an eerie glow. It flickered over a shadow on the floor. A scream stuck in Angelica’s throat as she realized what it was she was seeing. Her husband was sprawled on the floor, his body at a strange angle. Darkness overcame her. She woke up on a settee, her head cradled on Antoinette’s lap. “Easy now, dear.” “Alexander.” Her voice was a dry whisper. The old lady frowned. “Talking with the police.” Angelica stood up hastily, but her head swam and she had to sit back down. “I must go to him.” “You cannot,” the old woman said, not without kindness. “He is being accused of murder. If you go to him, you will be his accomplice. Remember that the deceased was your husband, even if you had no love for him.” “No.” Angelica stood up, and ignored Antoinette’s restraining hand. She ran to the front of the house where she heard some voices. Most of the guests seemed to have left, though the police were still interrogating some of them. Angelica spotted Alexander and quickened her pace. Her heart was in her throat as she saw the police begin to handcuff him. She was about to shout out Alexander’s name, when heavy hands grabbed her waist and drew her back. “If you do, you’ll get him into more trouble.” Angelica turned around and faced Dreiderich’s troubled blue eyes. “Dreiderich, you must do something.” “We will, but now is not the moment.” Tears came to her eyes as Alexander turned back for a moment and their eyes met. Not again, not again. If only she had accepted to leave earlier. She turned around as Alexander left and buried her head in Dreiderich’s chest, sobs tearing her apart.

Chapter Thirteen Dreiderich sat in front of Alexander in the cell they had appointed him. It was past midnight, the night of the ball. “How is she?” Dreiderich shook his head and motioned with his hand so that he would lower his voice, for the guards were still outside. “She is resting. After they took you away, she fainted again. Annette called the doctor and he gave her something to sleep.” “Dreiderich, watch over her. If something happened to her, I…” Alexander’s voice shook with emotion. He buried his head in his hands in despair. The blond German patted him roughly on the back. “You know I’ll care for her, and so will Anne and Anti. But it is you we have to worry about.” Alexander nodded. “They are accusing you of murdering Burges. However, they don’t have any real charges, unless you consider the fact that it happened in your house and you were the first at the crime scene.” “But I was not the first,” Alexander intercepted. “No? Tell me what happened again.” “I had gone to find Martin. We had barely finished preparing the coach for travel when I heard a scream, and thinking it was Angelica, I ran upstairs to see what had happened. A blond chubby girl, Cynthia, she was Burges’s lover, almost knocked me down in her haste to get away. I guessed she had come from one of the rooms and I went inside to see what had happened.” “Was she invited to the party?” “No, neither I nor Angelica knew her personally… she was, like I said, Ferdinand’s lover.” “So why was she there?” “Burges?” Alexander shrugged, though he pressed his nails into his palm. The bastard had had the face to bring his lover into his house. Drederich noticed and raised his eyebrows at him. “Cool down or you will be in much more trouble than you already are.” “Did anybody else see the blond?”

“I do not know, I don’t think so.” “So, that’s discarded.” Drederich leaned back on his chair. “The fact that you were preparing the coach to run away does not help your case.” Alexander jumped up, upsetting the chair, and swore loudly. The guard peeked in. “Everything all right?” he drawled. “Yes, officer, thank you,” Dreiderich replied and with a motion of his hand indicated that Alexander should sit back down. The officer nodded and went away. “Things are not looking good, my friend, but they will need more proof than that to keep you here. I will see if I can bail you out, though I do not think that will be possible until at least tomorrow or the day after, whenever the judge comes to this forsaken town.” Alexander sighed. “That might take at least a week. Christmas is three days away.” Dreiderich clasped his hands together. “I’ll try to get you out before then, but…” he left the sentence hanging. “It is not the first Christmas I spend alone, though I was wishing it was somehow different this year.” “I am sorry.” “Not your fault,” Alexander promptly replied. “I have to go now. I’ll be back as soon as possible.” “Take care of--” Dreiderich nodded and knocked on the door so the guard would let him out. Alexander lay down on the cot and closed his eyes. “Why?” he said aloud to no one in particular. Two days later Dreiderich returned. Alexander had been lying down counting the cracks in the ceiling when the door swung open. He jumped to his feet and hugged his friend. “I do not bring good news.” “What has happened?” Alexander scratched the beard he was beginning to sport. In two days, they had not let him change clothes or wash himself. He felt dirty and tired, though at least they had fed him well. “Angelica,” Dreiderich whispered.

Alexander grasped the German’s hands. “What is wrong? Is she all right?” “She lost the babe,” Dreiderich whispered in a sad tone. Alexander released his friend’s hand as if burnt. He stumbled backwards and fell against the bed. He buried his head in his face. Two tears rolled down his cheeks. First, life separated them again and now she lost their child. His family was falling apart. “Is she all right?” he finally asked. “She will recover. It was a natural abortion. Do not stress yourself over it, you will have more children,” Dreiderich said with confidence. Alexander shook his head. “As for your condition, things are looking gloomy. I have been unable to get a hold of the judge of this district. He is on holiday with his family in London and he will not come down here until after Christmas day.” Alexander cracked a smile. “How ironic, I’m the richest man in this damn town and I’m treated worse than a rat. I can’t even get a petty judge to send in a release notice.” “Relax, Alex. I spoke with the guards about the way they’ve been treating you. I’ve brought you some clean clothes and they said they’d let you bathe. I’ve also got some books and pens, so you can occupy your mind.” Alexander nodded thankfully, though he knew that no matter how clean he was, his thoughts would be straying to Angelica. “I’ve spoken to the judge and he has allowed me to bail you out, but you are under domiciliary arrest, which means that you cannot leave your house except under guard supervision.” Alexander nodded in understanding, though he bit his lip in frustration. Being guarded during the whole day meant that Angelica would not be able to visit him without the police knowing it and if they found out, they could think that she was involved in the murder. “I’ll be paying the bail now, so that by this afternoon you should be released.” While he spoke, Dreiderich drew out of his pocket a tiny slip of paper. He handed it to Alexander, indicating with a nod of his head that he should read it. All the while, he kept talking. I am well. Do as D tells you. Love you. Alexander felt tears accumulate at the back of his eyes. He hastily wiped them away and continued reading the note with the tiny

handwriting. When he finished he handed it back to Dreiderich. The German proceeded to light himself a cigarette and burn the slip of paper with his lighter. “I hope to see you this afternoon then, Lord Huntington,” Dreiderich replied, rising and grasping Alexander’s hand in a firm handshake. That same afternoon, the cell door opened. “Out you go, Huntington,” the guard yelled. Alexander abandoned his dirty cell, and greeted Dreiderich, who was waiting for him. The men shook hands and Dreiderich led Alexander to a coach. Alexander kept silent, though adrenaline coursed like wildfire through his veins. Finally, followed by a police escort, they reached Alexander’s home. Martin and Virginia greeted him effusively. “Sir, I told them about the blond I saw, but they would not believe me. They thought I was saying it merely to protect you.” Deeply moved, Alexander embraced Martin. “Thank you, Martin.” “Sire, I’ve made ready a warm bath for you,” Virginia spoke up. Alexander looked around dazed. The last time he had been at his home a ball had taken place. Now, there was no trace that such an event had ever happened. The last time he had been here, a murder had also taken place. Absently, he looked towards the hallway that led to the room where Burges had been killed. “We do not go into that room, sir, “Virginia said quietly. Alexander turned to her. “Thank you.” He then left to find the tub of warm water. Quickly he stripped and soaked in the warm bath. He washed his hair and body consciously, wishing to rid himself of the bad smell of humidity and filth that lingered in the cells and had stuck in his nose. As he hung back in the tub, he recalled the last time he had filled it to the brim. It had been a few weeks ago. Angelica had come over for some preparations and Alexander decided that she was too tense. He had asked Virginia to set up a rose scented bath. Together, they had relaxed in the warm water, speaking of the future that awaited them. Pain gripped his heart at the thought of his angel. How was she? Where was she? When would he be able to see her again?

A week passed. Alexander was beginning to grow restless. What bothered him was not the fact that he had a hard time controlling his business enterprise from there, or that he could not go out into the street, but that he had not heard anything from Angelica, although he knew that the plan was still running. Dreiderich, who had installed himself in a nearby inn so he could take care of Alexander’s case, called on him, as he did every two days. “Any news?” “Detective Langdon is working on it.” The day after the murder, Dreiderich had gotten in touch with David Langdon, one of the best private investigators of London. The man had come into Hackseville and was doing his job inconspicuously and very professionally. He had gone and found Cynthia, and interrogated her. At first, the blonde had denied everything, but Langdon had persuaded her to speak. Finally, she had even offered Langdon to go into the police and turn herself in for hiding information that could be of interest for the case. However, Langdon had told her to wait, because if it was the only other evidence his client had, then it was his mission to look for some more. Dreiderich handed him a package without saying anything. Alexander put it aside. Inside, hidden between a basket full of delicious Belgian chocolates and an assortment of fruit, lay the clothes that a peasant would wear: simple dark trousers, a matching vest and a knee-length brown frock coat. “Tomorrow,” Dreiderich said, raising eight fingers. Alexander nodded. “Till later, my friend and thank you.” “Until tomorrow,” Dreiderich said, firmly gripping Alexander’s hand. At six the next day, Alexander woke up. He took a quick bath and stared for a moment at his visage in the mirror. He had shaved off the beard as soon as he had come back from prison, but Dreiderich suggested he grow another one for their plan. He did not have much of a beard, but it would help disguise his features. He quickly dressed in the peasant clothes that Dreiderich had brought him. Although Martin and Virginia had an idea that something was going on, Alexander had asked that they not be involved. At eight o’clock, Alex heard the doorbell ring.

He heard, from the kitchen pantry where he was waiting, Martin’s greeting and Anne’s clear loud voice. “We have come to see Lord Huntington.” “I am sorry, ma’am, but he is currently asleep.” “Asleep? At this hour? No one in London is asleep at this hour,” Antoinette put in. “Perhaps you could come back later?” Martin tried to interject politely. Both women began to cry in dismay and indignation. “How dare you! We have come all the way from London.” “What is going on here?” The police officer that had the early morning watch came to their meeting. Both Anne and Anti tried to explain at the same time. At those early hours, only two guards were posted around the house: one on the front door and the other at the back. Now, they were both at the front door trying to calm down the two elderly ladies. Certain that no one was at the back, Alexander ran outside. He skidded to a stop nearby a gross of trees. Introducing himself through them, he found what he was seeking: a tawny mare greeted him with a snicker. Alexander made sure the seat was well adjusted; he then climbed on her back and left. As he galloped away, he could still hear screams and shouts coming from the house. He prayed that Martin and the girls entertained the police for a long time. He hurried through the forest, afraid that at any moment he would hear the sound of persecution. For three days, Alexander travelled without stopping. He hardly believed the plan had worked. They had been lucky when the judge thought he wasn’t dangerous enough to spare more than two guards for the house watch. Portrayed as a peasant he had tried to keep to the roads less travelled. Fear and desire spurred him on, and he covered the distance that by carriage would have taken a week to travel in much less time. Finally, at dusk on the fourth day, he made it to a solitary house on the edge of a large lake in the woods. As he reigned in, the door to the house burst open and Angelica came running out. Alexander jumped off his horse and swept her into his arms.

Chapter Fourteen Angelica reveled in Alexander’s warmth. She caressed his hair and kissed his lips with passion. Their tongues mingled and played, sucking on each other. Their embrace grew stronger, as if they were afraid that what they were touching was a mirage. “I’m never letting you go again, Angelica,” Alexander whispered into her ear. “Don’t ever let me go, because I am not releasing you again, either, Alexander,” she whispered as she let her head fall onto his chest. They stayed like that for a few minutes, simply enjoying the quiet of the woods and the presence of each other. “Come on, let’s get you inside. I’ll put the horse to rest,” Alexander said. “I’ll go with you.” Alexander smiled and taking Angelica’s hand they headed for the small stable at the back of the house. There another horse already ate hay clumsily. Together, they cared for the horses, not bothering to talk. Finally, they went inside the house. “I,” Alexander began to say as Angelica lighted some candles. “There is no need, Alexi. We will have more children,” she stated firmly. Alexander said nothing, but gazed at her as she went about the small cabin lighting candles and preparing things for a meal. “What is this place?” “It belonged to Ferdinand,” Angelica replied as she brought out some casseroles, “He bought it for our first year wedding anniversary. It was supposed to be for us, for when we tired of the life in town, but we only used it that once. I knew his true purpose was to bring his lover here.” Alexander approached her and hugged her from behind. “Ironic that we are the ones using it now.” Angelica turned in the circle of his arms. “Yes, I guess so.” Alexander bent down and kissed her. Immediately she responded to him. Desire rushed to meet her as he pressed against her and she felt his stiffening cock. Kisses rained on her face and then onto her neck.

“I hate this black,” he murmured noticing for the first time the black crimp dress she was wearing. “That makes two of us,” she muttered, reaching behind to try and undo the lace of her dress. Angelica could not believe Alexander was finally with her again. She yearned for his touch, to feel him inside her and all around her as she had had before this terrible mess. She had missed him so much her heart ached just to think about it. She was not fond of staying in the old house where her husband brought his lover, but it was the best place Dreiderich and she could think of. Barely anyone knew about the house and it was far away and cozy enough for her to stay alone. Her excuse to leave town was that she needed to be alone for some time, to think and remember her loving husband. People had actually believed that. Now that Ferdinand was dead she also took the chance to fire the valet turned spy, Jonathan. She and Dreiderich had prepared the house for at least one month. After a month, she did not think that they would be living there anymore, or at least that is what she hoped. Alexander pushed down her dress and kissed her again hungrily. He picked her up and took her to the adjoining room where the fireplace crackled warmly. Laying her down on the soft rug, he started to undo his clothes. “No, please let me.” Angelica kneeled before him, her mouth dry. Alexander nodded at her request and she stood up. Slowly, she began to undo the buttons of his shirt. As she popped the last button she slid her hand across his chest. Gently, she caressed and explored his firm planes. She touched, plucked and pinched his nipples. Helping him remove the rest of his shirt, she lowered her head and dropped kisses on his neck. She heard his labored breathing and deliberately, slowly trailed a path of kisses and licks down his pectorals and onto the curve of his stomach. When she reached his waistband she unceremoniously tugged down his trousers. Licking her lips at the sight of Alexander’s stiff cock, she wasted no time in brushing her fingers along its silky ridge. She yearned for him, for his taste, for his scent, for his touch. Her whole body hungered for him. Looking up at Alexander she saw his glazed eyes, his lips slightly parted, the heaving of his chest. Their eyes met and she took advantage of the moment to take his prick into

her mouth. She heard his growl and with gusto began to suck, lick and nip, taking little by little more of him. She moaned, aroused as Alexander began to buck his hips against her mouth. “If you keep that up I will not be able to control myself,” he said hoarsely, placing a hand on her shoulder. Angelica stopped her ministrations. She was dazed. She wanted more, so much more of Alexander. He had stopped her meal and yet she wanted him again. “Alexi.” It came out as a whimper, a plea full of desire. Alexander pushed her back down against the rug. He lay over her, covering her small body with his large one. His cock rested between them, a wet and hard reminder of their lust unconsumed. Angelica moved under him, trying to make him slide inside. Alexander chuckled. “Not yet, love.” Angelica pouted but she waited. Alexander kissed her. He began a leisurely decent of kisses down her body. Angelica moaned. Her body felt on fire as Alexander reached her swollen breasts. She gasped when he brushed his lips against her nipples, which made them so tight it almost pained her. Her breath hitched when he took one of them into his mouth, sucking hard. He did not let her other nipple grow cold, but instead thumbed, tweaked and pinched her sensitive nipple. Holding on to his hair, she writhed under him. With a grin he released them and continued his trail of kisses. Finally he reached her soaked pussy. Gently forcing her legs open, he lowered his head and brought out his tongue. Angelica moaned loudly as he nibbled, licked and sucked. He thumbed her clit while alternating pressing his tongue into her moist hole. Her cries of ecstasy augmented as a small orgasm shook her body. Angelica was in heaven, or so she thought until Alexander introduced his stiff rod into her sopping mound. Then she was truly in heaven. She felt so filled and complete that a loud moan of pleasure burst from her lips. Alexander kissed her, and began to move in her, at first a gentle see saw movement, which he increased in tempo as her cries of ecstasy also became louder. “More, Alexi,” she cried. Alexander complied and he fucked her harder, his muscles straining, rippling at the animal-like movement. Angelica gasped and shrieked as another orgasm assaulted her. She smiled as Alexander groaned and released himself inside her womb. Finally, he collapsed

over her, extenuated by their lovemaking. Angelica caressed his sweaty locks and dropped a kiss on the top of his head. “I love you, Alexi.” “And I you.” They woke up hours later, when the fire was burning low. After preparing a simple meal, they made love again, but neither of them took the first step to speak about their future. It was not until the next morning while they were having breakfast that Angelica decided to bring up the subject. “We cannot stay here indefinitely,” she said in a quiet voice. “I am aware,” Alexander replied, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “How well are we provisioned?” “For a month.” “We must flee,” he began to say. “I think we must watch our steps.” They laughed nervously. Angelica served herself some tea and stared out the window. Outside the world was a picture of calmness. The trees swayed with a gentle wind and the sun gleamed over the rippling water of the lake. “The police in all the surrounding area are probably aware of your escaping, Alexi…if they catch you now they will hang you.” Alexander kissed her hand and squeezed it reassuringly. “I will not let that happen,” he said. “So what can we do? They will eventually come searching for you here.” “We flee, but we must plan it carefully.” Angelica nodded and closed her eyes. “If only I had accepted to flee with you before.” “We do not know what could have happened. If they caught us then we would both be worse off.” “Yes, but--” “No buts, my angel. What is done is done. We cannot change it. We must only worry about the future.” As the days sped by they carefully planned their escape route. Two weeks after their reunion, Dreiderich appeared early one morning on their step. “You both look healthy,” he said with a smile as he stepped inside.

Alexander hugged his friend. “It is good to see you. What news?” “Langdon thinks he knows who the murderer is, but he will not tell me, not until he can confirm. He has asked for a few more days, so I’m hoping that in a few days we will be able to clear everything up.” “If we clear everything up, can we go back?” Angelica asked with hope. “I don’t see why not,” Dreiderich replied. “Although,” he frowned, “I suggest you refrain in mentioning your romance, at least until a few months have passed. People will always think badly first, and it could still cause both of you some problems.” Angelica nodded and looked down at the needlework she was doing. She felt her eyes sting. Alexander kneeled before her and hugged her as tears fell in earnest. “Why can’t we be free to love each other?” she cried onto his shoulder. “I wish I knew, love, I wish I knew.” When she had finally calmed down, Angelica kissed Alexander with tenderness. Placing a hand on his face, she whispered in his ear. “You know me so well.” Alexander smiled at the compliment. “That is because I love you.” Angelica smiled and turned to Dreiderich. “Please forgive me,” she began to say. Dreiderich smiled. “Please, Angelica, there is nothing to forgive. I can only imagine how both of you must feel.” “Nonetheless, “Angelica said, “I think maybe we should delay our escape another week, Alexander––after all, if your name is cleared it will be much easier for us to move around.” “What about what people will say when they see you with me?” Angelica smiled. “You once told me that you never cared about that; neither do I.” Alexander laughed and Dreiderich smiled. “Very well, we will wait another week. Will you bring us news in a week, Dreiderich?” “Of course my friends, I will keep you updated.”

However, one week later, Dreiderich did not come. Worried, Alexander and Angelica decided to wait a few more days, in case something had delayed their friend. Their peaceful retirement was interrupted one midmorning, when several riders dressed in police garb approached her house. She turned to Alexander, who had also heard the noises. “I will hide; act as if nothing had happened,” Alexander stated. Angelica nodded and continued to cook, though inside she was trembling like a leaf. When the door knocked she bit her lip to avoid yelping and dropped her kitchen utensils with a clatter. Taking a deep breath she braced herself for the worst and went to the door. “Yes?” “Police, madam, open up.” “Of course.” Angelica opened the door to find a redheaded officer with cap in hand staring at her with a grim expression. “Sorry to bother you ma’am, but we have news that a fugitive might be staying here.” The man seemed truly apologetic as he noticed her black dress. “A fugitive?” Angelica questioned in surprise. “Sire, I am alone in this cabin, which as you can see is quite small. If there were anybody here beside myself I would have noticed.” “Can we look inside?” another agent asked. “I do not think so, agents.” “Ma’am, a man has been murdered not very far from here.” “Who?” she asked, fear gripping her heart. “That is none of your business,” the red head replied, while the third agent said at the same time, “a detective of sorts.” “Sire, as you can see I am dressed in mourning. My husband has recently perished and I have come here seeking some solace in the summerhouse we used to share. If there is anyone here with me it is but his spirit in my heart.” Real tears blinked in her eyes as she thought not of her husband but of the man she loved and the grave danger he was in. The agents seemed appalled by her speech. “Sorry to have disturbed you, madam,” the redhead said, “and condolences on your husband’s death.”

“Thank you,” Angelica managed to blurt, as two fat tears rolled down her cheeks. Angelica closed the door firmly behind her as the agents rode away. Trembling, she slid to the floor unable to sustain herself on her own feet anymore. Alexander came to her and sat beside her. “I am glad you ignored my pleas to go around naked and you still wear those awful black dresses.” Angelica laughed between tears. “Tell me where you were hiding. If they come back they will not take no for an answer and will want to look around.” Alexander nodded and took her to the bedroom. He climbed atop a stool and into a large cupboard used to keep sheets and bedding. Behind the sheets he was not visible. Angelica breathed a sigh of relief. “Where is Dreiderich?” she asked aloud, voicing both their thoughts. “We will wait another two days, and if he does not come, we will flee.”

Chapter Fifteen The sun was rising, as they made ready to leave. Angelica locked the house as Alexander finished saddling the horses. Two more days had gone by and they had heard nothing from Driederich. They feared the worst. However, they decided not to alter their original plan of escape. If Dreiderich was dead, there was nothing they could do. If alive, he would find them. Their plan was simple. They would head south, then swerve east and finally north to London. They hoped that if the police were pursuing Alexander they would not suspect him to be as foolish as to go into the largest city of the whole of England. Finally, if all went well they would take a boat into Paris. They rode in silence most of the time, keeping to secondary roads. They slept in the open more than one night before they reached their first main stop: Halloway. There they stayed at an inn, where they were treated fairly and slept quite well. The next town they reached, Angelica noticed that some men looked suspiciously at Alexander. As they aimed for the inn she discovered why. Large posters illustrated with his face hung all over town, offering a succulent prize to whoever turned him in. They didn’t bother to reach the inn. “Maybe we can cut your hair?” Angelica suggested as they made camp in the outskirts of the town, near the forest. Alexander laughed. “That would kill you. I know how much you have always liked my hair.” “It would kill me to know that something has happened to you because of it.” “Love, with short hair I will still be recognizable. I’ll tuck it into my hat and that way it will not be visible, all right?” Angelica nodded and they snuggled together trying to ward of the chill and hoping that no mishaps happened during the night. Due to the unexpected bounty hunting for Alexander, they altered their plans and didn’t bother to stop at any more towns except swiftly once to buy some provisions. They decided not to take the train in Worsehapton, but made for the smaller village of Fork. The train bound for London did not leave until the following morning, and

fortunately, the posters had not reached the location, so they were able to rest in an inn during the night. Alexander opened his eyes. The hairs on the back of his neck stood on end. Something was wrong. He sat up and looked down at Angelica, who stirred next to him, feeling his unease. “Alexi, what is it?” Alexander put a finger to her lips and slowly got out of bed. He reached under the cot and took hold of the pistol that Dreiderich had left him on their last visit. He tiptoed to the bedroom door and placed his ear next to the door. He heard a commotion and then the door handle shook. He glanced at Angelica and saw her eyes wide, her expression scared. Alexander cocked the gun and pointed to the door. The door rattled open and in came a young man with a prostitute hanging by his arm and giggling madly. “What the fuck!” the youth screamed. “Get out,” Alexander howled grabbing him by the neck and throwing him out. “Sorry, wrong room.” “Sorry,” the young girl giggled. Clearly, she was drunk. The pair drifted off the darkened hallway and Alexander took the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the hallway. Seeing nothing, he closed the door and locked it. Leaving the pistol next to him, he went back into bed and snuggled Angelica against his chest. “It was not that, what scared you,” she stated after a few moments of silence. “No.” Alexander sighed. He knew Angelica was waiting an explanation; there was nothing he could hide from her. “I have had an uneasy feeling for days. Ever since we heard the news of the murder of Detective Langdon I have been worried. My fears increased with Dreiderich’s disappearance. But, it is more than that… something feels wrong.” “I know what you mean. I feel that they are stalking us at every corner.” “Exactly,” Alexander exclaimed, relieved that Angelica understood. “I hope that the feeling will go away as soon as we are on that boat to Paris.”

“I hope so too, love.” Alexander kissed Angelica’s head and closed his eyes trying to ease his nerves. He had the horrible feeling that they would not make it to the boat. Clearly, whoever was following them was quicker, if he had been able to reach Langdon and Dreiderich. The next day, they took the train without incident. It was upon arriving to London that they felt they were in most danger. The first thing they saw was a poster of Alexander and the prize for finding him. Alexander dragged his coat higher upon his neck. His hair was well hidden underneath his cap and he had not stopped dressing as a peasant since they left the cabin. Angelica walked in front of him. They pretended that she was a lonely widow and he, her faithful servant. Hoping against hope that Dreiderich had never made it to the cabin because he had suddenly become very ill, they took a cab to his house. However, when Angelica inquired, the butler told them that he had left more than two weeks ago to the countryside. They thought about going to Anne and Anti’s, but decided against it. After all, the two elderly ladies had already risked enough with Alexander’s escape. Finally, unable to think of anything else, they resorted to Alexander’s home. Perhaps Dreiderich had left him a message there. The house was cold and empty. When he moved to Hackseville, Alexander had taken his two most faithful servants with him. He left another three in London caring for the house, but they guessed that having received news that their employer was in prison they had gone off to find other jobs. “What do you say we stay here for the night? The boat does not leave until tomorrow morning.” Angelica grinned as Alexander opened the door and invited her inside. “What?” “It’s the first time I see your London home.” Alexander laughed. “I’ll show you around. Electricity has recently reached this part of the city, but its best we use candles. We do not know if the house is being watched.” Angelica nodded. Together with a candle in hand, they made their way across the house. It was not very large considering the wealth of Alexander or his house in Hackseville. The house was

composed of two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two drawing rooms, a dining room and the kitchen. When Alexander showed her one of the drawing rooms, he heard Angelica’s delighted gasp. “It’s exactly like--” “Like your house in our hometown.” Angelica turned to Alexander with tears in her eyes. “When I told you, you were always in my heart… I meant it,” he said, bending over to kiss her. “Do you want to play cards?” she asked playfully. Alexander let his jaw drop, and then he began to laugh. “Wait here.” He ran into another room and came back with some more candles and a deck of cards. He proceeded to light the candles and the fireplace, and closed the door to keep in the warmth before sitting down in front of Angelica and shuffling the cards. “Do you know how hard it is for me to concentrate?” Alexander asked her, rubbing his fingers against hers as she dropped some cards on the floor. “It was not hard for me then. But it is now,” she replied, letting the rest of the cards drop. Alexander pulled her to him and kissed her. This kiss had nothing to do with the one ten years ago. There was nothing shy or awkward about it. It was a kiss full of confidence and love. Nonetheless, his hands trembled with anticipation as he pulled Angelica closer to him and felt her shiver against him. Unlike ten years ago, he drew her onto his lap. He smiled into her mouth when he felt her gasp as she felt his hardness pressed against her bottom. He deepened their kiss, tasting the sweetness of her mouth. His fingers nudged against her bare shoulder and his heart seemed to stop beating. “How can you make me feel this way, as if my heart had stopped beating, after so much time?” he whispered as he began to undo the lace of her dress. “I should ask you much the same,” she replied breathlessly, helping him, as she had done then, undo her lace and free her body of the constraining dress. His mouth had been dry the first time he saw her pale breasts; now, he salivated as he lowered his head and pressed his lips to her

sensitive skin. A groan rose from his chest as he felt Angelica’s hand searching his body, caressing and scraping her nails against his back and his chest. “Take it off, Alexi,” she pleaded. He obeyed her command and went back to sucking, nipping and licking her breasts. Angelica moaned, but her hands did not stop moving. She lowered them until she found the waistband of his breeches. She no longer gasped when she felt his hardness swell in her hand––to the contrary, a tiny moan of desire wrung her lips. “Off, Alexi,” she ordered. Alexander obeyed without question. When he sat down, Angelica playfully pushed him. He fell back with a chuckle. She began to stroke his cock and his breath hitched in his throat. Angelica lowered her lips onto her lover’s stiff cock. She sucked on it with gusto, grasping his balls and scraping her nails across them. Alexander moaned. Encouraged, she deep throated him. Alexander bucked against her mouth. Gently he swiveled her around so that his fingers could find entrance to her body. He pushed two fingers inside her wet vagina. He emitted a growl as she pressed her body against his. Opening her legs wider he began to lick her, his tongue lapping at her juices. “Enough.” Unable to take it anymore, she moved away from him. Bending over him, Angelica pushed his fullness inside of her. Alexander groaned at the feeling of her wet tightness around him. His groan became a strangled moan as she gyrated her hips over him. Carefully, so as not to upset her balance, Alexander sat up a little. He took hold of first one and then the other breast and drew them into his mouth. It was as if he could never have enough of her. Angelica increased her rhythm over his prick. She lifted herself over him, leaving only his bulbous tip inside and then slammed back down. Her breath came out in short spurts and her nails dug into his chest. Knowing that she was close to climaxing, Alexander kissed her and whispered into her mouth, “I love you, Angelica.” Angelica threw her head back and screamed Alexander’s name as her body spasmed with pleasure around his cock. “I love you, Alexi.” Wasted, Angelica collapsed in Alexander’s arms. He kissed the top of her head and bucked his hips. Angelica opened her eyes.

“You’re insatiable.” “Of you? Always.” Alexander rolled them over so that Angelica was on her knees. Angelica arched her body and groaned as she felt Alexander enter her from behind. They moaned and grunted, pushed and shoved, uncaring of the world around them. Everything became reduced to that moment in time, to the feel of their skin rubbing against the other, to the one point were their bodies united turning them into one being. Alexander emitted a primal growl as his sperm erupted into Angelica’s womb and she shuddered from another orgasm. Extenuated, they both collapsed onto the floor, their limbs sweaty and entwined one with the other. They awoke on the drawing room floor a few hours later. Alexander held Angelica closer when she sleepily snuggled against him. “Something is not right,” he whispered. He stood up and put on his pants. Angelica followed and threw on her undergarments, but not her dress. Alexander looked around the room, dazed. “Have you seen my pistol?” he asked, urgently. “You had it with you?” “Of course. I left it with my clothes.” “Maybe it’s under my dress.” Angelica had barely turned around to lift her dress off the floor when a light flickered, accentuating the open drawing room door. “I believe you are looking for this.” Alexander instinctively took a step back, pulling Angelica behind him. The light went out, bathing the room once more in near darkness. Fortunately, Alexander knew his way around the room and he began to move, dragging Angelica behind him. Suddenly, the lights blinked on and both of them became blinded by the sudden brightness. Angelica gasped when she recognized the man that stood before them, Alexander’s gun firmly in his grasp.

Chapter Sixteen “Father!” “Bitch,” the father exclaimed in a mock affectionate tone. “Here I have always been trying to give you a good life and then you go and ruin it all by fucking this poor idiot. Then I marry you off, even though you were spoiled goods and you dare say that I sold you off?” “Father, what are you saying? What are you doing here?” “I have lived always for you, Angelica,” Edward said, his watery blue eyes sad. “You never were able to see it,” he paused. “I hope you understand that is why I killed your husband.” “Father, have you been drinking?” Alexander grasped Angelica firmly behind him as he slowly tried to move them towards the fireplace, where above the mantel a sword hung. Edward cringed. “You think little of me, daughter. I did not bring you up this way.” Edward shook his head, and passed a hand through his grey hair before continuing. “I had to, my sweet daughter. You see…you were right. Ferdinand was an ass. He had ill-treated you and the only way I could ask your forgiveness was if I killed him and got him out of the way for you.” Edward looked down at the gun and up at Angelica before cocking the weapon at Alexander, who froze to the spot. “But then, there was the problem of Alexander here. Really, Angelica, I do not know what you see in him.” He paused, waiting for Angelica to explain herself. Angelica said nothing. “Very well, I see that whatever it is, it is no business of mine. But, it is my concern if he is interfering in the love you should have for me or if he interferes in the plans I have for you.” Edward’s hands shook with anger. His voice took on a rough edge, “First he goes off and screws your silly brains and then ten years later he comes back to do the same thing.” “Father, what are you trying to say?” “It’s quite simple, you dimwitted bitch. I killed your husband so that your lover would be accused of the crime. That way you would have no option but to come running back to me. You’d beg my forgiveness for ruining my life and I’d take you once more under my wing. It was all so perfect, Angie.”

“How did you kill Ferdinand?” Angelica whispered. Edward grinned and began to pace the room as he told his tale: Edward was angry. How dare that stupid daughter of his defy him the way she did? Very well, he could not do anything about her, but he could talk with her husband. He would give her what she deserved. He saw the man entering a solitary room and followed. “Burges--” Ferdinand turned around, startled. “I did not know you were coming.” “You sent me an invitation, remember?” “Have you seen your corpse daughter yet?” he asked mockingly. “Yes, why are you not doing anything about it? She is fucking some carpenter.” “Big deal, she is still mine to do what I will.” “What do you mean big deal? If they find out she is an adulterer you will never get it off your back, Burges. You will be the consenting husband, the poor soul who was cheated on by his wife, the man that couldn’t keep his dick up to satisfy his young wife. Is that what you want? “Listen to me, Edward, I have everything in control. She is mine. If I want to fuck her I do, if I want to kill her I do. 6ow get out of here and leave me in peace.” Edward balled his hands into a fist. It was lucky that Ferdinand had paid a high price for Angelica, because the man was a real jerk. He opened his mouth to protest, but a thought suddenly occurred to him. “Fine, Burges, do what you will. After all, you are right, she is yours now,” he acquiesced. Ferdinand nodded. “Glad you see it my way. 6ow, why don’t you leave me, old man––I’m expecting company.” “All right, but let’s share a conciliatory drink. I do not wish to be in bad image with my son-in-law,” Edward lied. Ferdinand huffed but nodded his agreement. Edward smiled and went to the table with the spirits. Discreetly, he served the two drinks and slipped into one of them the contents of the vial he had been planning to feed Huntington later on during the night. He did

not place the empty bottle back inside his waistcoat, but kept it tightly in his grasp. He turned around, a sickly smile plastered on his face. “For women,” he toasted as he handed the cup to Ferdinand. “For women,” the wry man agreed as he downed the clear brown liquid. Edward swallowed his own drink and gave Ferdinand a fatherly pat on the back before leaving. He pretended to stumble on his way out, dropping the empty vial on one of the couches for the police to find and accuse Huntington. The poison would take half an hour to act. Edward stopped pacing and stared at Angelica. “You ruined my life, you know?” “I did no such thing,” Angelica said hotly. She disentangled herself from Alexander’s grasp and faced her father. “You married me off, you killed--“ Edward laughed. “I forgot, you do not know. You killed your mother.” “You are deranged.” “No, I am not, my sweet Angelica. You might not remember but when you were three you brought a poor sick squirrel into our home. Your mother told you to put it away, but you insisted. Finally, angered that you would not obey her, my dear Samantha grabbed the squirrel to put it outside. The animal bit her. Yes, he did, Angelica. He bit your mother, drawing blood on her poor hand.” Edward spoke with tears in his eyes. “We thought it was nothing, until she became sick. Rabid squirrel––that was the doctor’s diagnosis. It was too late, too late.” He brushed away the tears and sighed. Lifting his head he noticed that although Angelica had stopped moving, Alexander was about to reach the mantelpiece. Edward aimed his gun at him. “I would not do that if I were you.” In a nimble move, Alexander pretended to swerve to the left to make a grab for the sword. Instead he lunged himself at Edward. The older man lost his footing and both men fell. The gun skittered across the floor. Angelica screamed as they wrestled. Edward pushed Alexander back and the youth hit his head on the edge of a table. He slumped on the floor semi-unconscious. “Always weak and pitiful, Alexander.”

Chapter Seventeen Alexander lay on the floor, dazed. He heard Angelica scream and a scuffling of feet as she tried to run and Edward grabbed her. Edward laughed coldly. “I should kill him just like you killed Samantha.” “Why did you even bring me up if you hated me?” Angelica asked. Her voice shook with tears. “You were the vivid image of your mother as a child. Sweet, loving, always so happy. You brought me so much joy as a child,” he said with fondness. “Then,” Edward growled, “you began to grow, and with every passing day, you lost a little of her character and you became your own persona. But that was not what made me hate you, it was your looks. You looked so much like your mother.” “Should you not have been glad that I looked like her?” “Glad? No, my child, I was not glad, because every time I looked at you I felt a stirring in my loins.” Alexander opened his eyes. His vision was blurry. Edward laughed again. “Surprised, huh? Yes, if I would have known you would turn out to be the bitch you are I would have ravaged your body long ago, but my morality kept me from touching you. Even now, as I look at your scantily clad body I feel my cock harden.” Alexander had to fight the urge to jump up and kill the man right then. He felt sick at the old man’s revelation, but he tried to remain calm. If he despaired, Edward would surely kill him. Noiselessly, he turned his head and spotted the sword barely at arm’s reach. Painfully slowly, he grabbed the hilt. He looked up at where Angelica struggled against her father. Edward’s free hand roamed over her body relentlessly, a vicious grin on his face as he whispered dirty words in her ear. Then, Alexander saw his opportunity. Angelica kicked at Edward and Alexander stood up quickly. He placed the sword’s edge on Edward’s neck. “Release her.” Startled, Edward jumped back as Angelica ran away from her father’s grip. Edward laughed hysterically. “Come on now, Alexander, there is enough pussy for both of us.”

“How dare you speak of your own daughter like that?” Alexander hissed in between clenched teeth. He thrust out his hand behind his back and felt Angelica cower behind him. “How dare I?” Edward mimicked with a laugh. “You know, you should be hanged already. You were really lucky that you had that German lawyer of yours. Shame I had to do away with him, really.” “Father, what did you do with Dreiderich?” Angelica cried. “Father, what did you do with Dreiderich?” Edward mocked. “What, you fucked him too?” he asked. “Like I said, I did away with him.” Edward’s eyes swerved to the sword against his neck as he looked for a weak spot to escape. “What really annoyed me though, was that detective of yours. I must admit I was impressed. He was really good, too good.” “You killed him,” Angelica gasped. Langdon relaxed. He was not an ugly man by standards, but nor was he extremely handsome. His brown hair and deep brown eyes brought attention from the women around him, but it was mainly his profession that made women want to jump into his bed. Tonight, he was celebrating. He had just told his latest client about the findings he had discovered. Tomorrow, he would go back to Hackseville to deliver his proof and then to London to start a new case. Life was good and it was even better as the wench he had attracted sucked on his cock eagerly. He would dismiss her after she was done, but first he would enjoy her services. Gods, how well she sucked, almost like sucking a lollipop. She would pop and then lick, pop and lick. Then she would take his balls and rub them. “Put them between your breasts.” Large full breasts that rubbed his cock; could life get any better? He knew he should be bothered about the fact that he was staying in the same inn as the man he had been following, but he was not. The man he had been trailing, a certain Edward Thomson, preferred to kill by poison, and no one was poisoning him that night. The police had missed the empty vial stranded between the cushions of one of the sofas. He had sent it to London to investigate its contents. Meanwhile, he had interviewed several people, but the blond bimbo’s eyewitness and the butler’s testimony had brought together the pieces that pointed to Edward as a possible suspect.

He investigated Angelica’s father and discovered disturbing facts, like the small laboratory he had in his basement. When he received the lab results from London, he was certain that it was more than a coincidence that the laboratory and the vial held the same deadly ingredients. Certain that Edward was the killer, but in need of more proof, he followed the man around and uncovered his new plot to kill her and her lover. Of all this, Langdon had informed Dreiderich, who awaited him eagerly to put an end to this silly persecution of his client. After a thorough fucking with the wench, Langdon fell into a deep slumber, so when he heard the door open in the middle of the night, he became frightened. “Well met, detective Langdon.” “Edward.” Langdon sat up in bed. His gun was under his pillow, but he knew that any sudden move could make the murderer react harshly. “I hear you have been following me.” “So I have.” “Have you discovered then that I killed Ferdinand?” “I have.” “And that I want to commit another murder.” “Yes.” He inched his hand under the pillow, but Edward, even in his old age was quick. The man launched himself on Langdon and they both tumbled to the floor. It was over quickly as Edward hit him hard with an object he had brought into the room. Once he left Langdon semi-unconscious, he choked him to death. Edward would never forget the feeling of holding someone’s life in his own hands. It made him feel like God. “Yes, yes, he was about to go to you and tell you that I wanted to kill you all… I could not let him live, now could I? Oops, I just told you my master plan,” he chuckled. “You would not dare,” Alexander began to say, “Alexander, you are as stupid as you were years ago. In case you have not noticed, I have a gun and you have a sword. What are you going to do with that? By the way, a very faithful recreation of my old drawing room; I guess my daughter’s virgin pussy was really sweet, if you have been able to remember the way everything looked until now.” He looked at Angelica. “I can hardly wait to try it.”

Alexander took a quick step forward and lashed out with the sword. Edward grunted and dropped the gun. Alexander took the moment of distraction to launch himself at Edward. “Alexi, no!” Both men fell to the floor in a tumble, trying to reach the fallen gun. Bang! Alexander fell back, shock all over his features. Angelica stood in front of him, trembling from head to toe. She dropped the hot gun and fell to her knees. Alexander ran to her and hugged her to him, covering her face. Edward lay on the floor, a gaping wound sprouting blood. Angelica had shot him in the back, but the force of the bullet had run across and created a hole in his chest near his heart. “Angelica?” Angelica released herself from Alexander’s grip and kneeled next to her father. “I’m sorry, my daughter. He came to me the first night and I denied him. I was vain, I was selfish. I think I went crazy when your mother died, Angie. I am so sorry.” Edward’s eyes filled with tears. “I married you to the first man that accepted, even if he was not a good man and I knew it. You hated him, you despised me for marrying you off, but you never said anything. You were always such a good girl…Do not forgive me, Angelica, because I do not deserve it. Just be happy, my daughter.” Edwards’s eyes became blank and the room grew eerily quiet, the silence only broken by Angelica’s sobs. Suddenly, they heard a loud crack and the house swarmed with police officers; behind them ran a large blond, a white cloth with blood tied to his head.

Epilogue Angelica looked out the window where her 7-year-old twins played. Anne waved and Anti took the opportunity to push her. Angelica laughed, but her laughter died down when she felt Alexander hug her close, his large hands resting on her eight-month pregnant belly, his long hair brushing against her shoulders as he stooped down to kiss the corner of her mouth. “Mmmm.” “I just got a letter from Dreiderich.” “How is he doing?” Angelica asked. Dreiderich had never made it to the cabin on the appointed day because he had discovered Langdon’s premature death. When he finally made it to the house, Alexander and Angelica were already gone. Afraid that Edward would catch up with them, he too began to trail the couple. He always seemed to be a step behind them, until that night before they took the train to London. That night he had been about to enter their room and tell them what was going on when Edward had snuck up on him and smacked him on the head. Edward, thinking he was dead, had taken his body and dumped him in a forest for the scavenger animals to eat. However, Dreiderich had survived the hit. He had been found by a farmer and his son, and was taken to a doctor where he was obliged to remain in bed. No one in the town believed him when he said he was after a murderer. As soon as he could, he got up and went to London, where he informed the police of what was occurring. Together, they had intercepted Edward’s murderous plan just in time. “He is doing well; Jessica is expecting their first child.” “That’s fantastic,” Angelica acquiesced, taking her husband’s hand and tenderly kissing his fingers. “You’re not really thinking about Dreiderich, are you?” Alexander chuckled. He kissed her on the neck tenderly. “No, not right now.” She pressed her back against him and felt the swell of his cock against her bottom. Alexander laughed and turned her in the circle of his arms. He kissed her deeply and stared into her eyes. Angelica smiled. His eyes told her everything she needed to know. They were filled with love, trust, respect, caring and devotion.

“I can still read your eyes,” Alexander whispered. “I know, but I adore telling you I love you, nonetheless.” “And I love hearing it, and demonstrating it, my angel.” Alexander stooped down and easily picked her up. They looked at each other for a moment before surrendering, free at last to do so, into each other’s embrace. The End

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