Madison Park

Classics Rekindled 4

Madison Park Docile Fanny Wright is the poor relation at Madison Park. After ten years, she longs to take control of her life. She harbors feelings for Edmund Bantham, the second son, but sophisticated Harry Crawford charms and flirts with her too. She fantasizes about them both in her lonely attic room. One afternoon Harry samples Fanny’s commanding passion. He knows she loves Edmund and suggests they share her. Edmund cares for Fanny and wants her too. He agrees if she consents. Fanny knows Edmund won’t marry the poor relation. Harry will marry a wealthy woman. But in passion she can have control. When suspicions arise, Harry and Edmund court other women to distract from their liaison. They explain, but she can’t ignore the truth. She has no future with either of them. Is she destined to remain powerless? Or can they convince her they will happily follow her lead forever? Genre: Historical, Ménage a Trois/Quatre Length: 24,670 words

MADISON PARK Classics Rekindled 4

Josie Dennis

MENAGE AMOUR

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Ménage Amour

MADISON PARK Copyright © 2011 by Josie Dennis E-book ISBN: 1-61034-973-3 First E-book Publication: November 2011 Cover design by Jinger Heaston All cover art and logo copyright © 2011 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

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MADISON PARK Classics Rekindled 4 JOSIE DENNIS Copyright © 2011

Chapter 1 Northampton, England, 1814 “Fanny Wright!” a shrill voice called. Fanny flinched then took in a calming breath and came to her feet. “Coming, Lady Bantham.” She set aside her book of sonnets and smoothed her plain gown. Entering the parlor, she found Lady Bantham reclined on a silkcovered settee, her hand on her brow. “There you are,” she breathed. Fanny dropped a curtsy. “What can I do for you?” “My tea, Fanny.” Lady Bantham waved her hand toward the tray set on a table but a few feet from the settee. “I find I grow thirsty.” Fanny hurried over to the table and filled the woman’s cup. “Would you like some biscuits?” “Oh, I don’t know.” The lady sighed. “Is there honey?” Fanny nodded. “As you requested.” “I suppose that will suit.” Fanny set three biscuits on a plate and drizzled them with honey. “There you go.” “Thank you, Fanny,” Lady Bantham said. She let out another sigh as she leaned toward the table to begin her repast. “Join me. I find I

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need your company.” At the common request, Fanny settled on a small chair not far from the settee. It was a chair she’d occupied often over the last ten years. She took one biscuit and nibbled on it, savoring the sweet, crunchy treat. She didn’t dare take another, so she made this one last. She had been eleven years old when she was brought from her poor family’s home in Portsmouth to live with her rich distant relations, and in the decade since, she had grown to fill nothing more than her allotted space and position. Serve Lady Bantham. Cater to Sir Thomas. Be polite to the two sons and never engage the two daughters in conversation or play unless asked to do so. Such was the fate of the poor relation treated to her wealthy relatives’ largesse. She had mastered the art of keeping quiet and circumspect, and this particular summer evening she listened to the soothing sounds of the fine clock ticking on the wide marble mantle. In between Lady Bantham’s discourse of the weather being too hot or too wet for this time in July, that was. Fanny said nothing in answer to the lady’s complaints, nor was she expected to. Yes, Fanny knew her place and was grateful for it. Besides, she was certain that chafing at this late date would serve nothing. Were the Banthams to suddenly decide that she served no true purpose, they might just put her out, and then where would she be? “I want to wear that bonnet!” a female voice screeched. “No, I am to wear it!” answered another. Fanny closed her eyes and braced herself for the onslaught. As if on cue, Maria and Julia Bantham barreled into the room, tugging and pulling at the peach bonnet between them. Fanny eyed them. Their pretty faces were red from exertion, and their artfully styled hair was mussed. This disagreement undoubtedly had been of some duration, then. In their present state the two looked more like girls ten years their junior rather than the young women of nineteen and twenty-three they were respectively. “Tell her, Mother,” Maria whined. “If I am to curry Mr. Rushton’s

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favor, I demand that I shall wear this bonnet!” “No, no, no!” Julia argued with another tug on the woefully misshaped bonnet. “Maria has already secured his engagement, Mother. There will be eligible men at the picnic three days hence. Mr. Harry Crawford will be there!” Fanny straightened in her chair at Julia’s mention of the name then quickly schooled her expression. Her body tingled deliciously. Ooh, Harry Crawford. He was new to Northampton and quite a remarkable specimen of male beauty. He had glossy blond curls and sparkling blue eyes, although she hadn’t failed to notice his fit figure shown to advantage in tight breeches. He was here to look over his recently deceased uncle’s property, he and his sister both. Over the past month since making his acquaintance, Fanny had indulged her fantasies in her small attic bedroom, feverishly pleasuring herself as Harry’s lovely visage floated before her. His flirting comments and teasing looks caused her body to flush and her drawers to grow decidedly damp. She took in a slow breath to cool her blood. Such was her secret and her shame, this runaway passion. She could never let any of the Banthams know she was anything more than a placid figure in their home. She’d grown quite adept at such sensual matters over the past few months, though. Vexingly, it had grown far from satisfying of late. Even Edmund’s image served to frustrate more than soothe as she lay in her narrow bed. Ah, Edmund. Sir Thomas’s second son and the kindest, gentlest man she knew. Edmund was quietly handsome. He possessed dark hair, soulful brown eyes, and quite a lovely mouth. And his taste! Why, that one time he’d kissed her— “Girls, please.” Lady Bantham sighed. “Do not raise your voices so. Can you not see how demurely Fanny sits there? Can you not comport yourselves with the smallest bit of that decorum?” Julia and Maria both stopped to gape at Fanny. Their eyes flicked dismissively over her before they both turned back to their mother.

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“What does it matter what Fanny does?” Maria asked. “She has no beau to consider,” Julia put in. Fanny bit the inside of her cheek to restrain herself from responding. No beau, indeed, though if she were to have her heart’s secret desire, she would have two. She hid her smile now. Naughty girl. “Look at that poor beleaguered bonnet,” Lady Bantham said. “I daresay it will flatter neither of you now. Wouldn’t you agree, Fanny?” Fanny opened her mouth to offer some sort of answer when Maria threw the bonnet to the floor. “Oh, pooh!” she cried. “Julia ruins everything. Isn’t that so, Fanny?” This question, Fanny knew, she should not answer. She had learned quickly to never let one girl pit her against the other. The only one who lost in that battle was Fanny. “Never mind, then,” Maria sniffed. “I shall ask to be driven into the village and buy something new.” She sneered at Julia. “Something to suit my fair coloring that would look quite ill on your dark hair.” “What is wrong with my hair?” Julia asked. “It is glossy and black, not the ordinary brown of Fanny’s.” The insult elicited no reaction in Fanny. Her hair, when she had it loose from her demure style and down around her shoulders, was soft and lustrous and not at all ordinary. Why, Harry had said something about her hair just the other afternoon, fingering a tendril which had escaped its confinement. The memory of his breath so close to the nape of her neck raised goose pimples now. And Edmund? He had always loved to stroke her hair when they were children. Soft like a kitten, he would say. Mmm, Edmund had such lovely hands. Such graceful fingers. How she longed for him to stroke a different part of her anatomy. She stilled. How could she desire two men? And two decidedly different men at that. Edmund, whom she had loved forever. Kind,

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caring Edmund, whose gentle affection was the sole light in her long dark years at Madison Park. Fun-loving, sophisticated Harry, whose warmth and attention was like the sunrise after the coldest night. “What do you say, Fanny?” Lady Bantham’s question effectively pulled Fanny from her mind’s wanderings. “Say, Lady Bantham?” The lady smiled fondly. “Ah, dear Fanny. I can always count on you to keep your opinions to yourself.” As if I had leave to give voice to them. “Yes, Lady Bantham.” “I spoke of the picnic at Mr. Rushton’s, dear. You will go, of course.” She hadn’t thought to ask, but now that the prospect was before her? Oh, yes. She could look her fill at Harry Crawford and indulge in conversation with Edmund without censure or any true notice. Young people were expected to converse freely at such events. “If you wish me to,” she said to Lady Bantham. The lady granted Fanny another indulgent smile. “Capital. Do take every opportunity to enjoy your outing, Fanny.” Fanny said nothing to that. She would make certain to enjoy herself without seeming to do so excessively. She had perfected the art of decorum. Little did anyone know that her stillness hid a racing heart that longed for passion. And love, if she were honest with herself. But whose love did she desire at present? Edmund, whose heart she’d craved for ages? Or Harry’s, whose body promised a passion she could only imagine? It mattered little, really. She would have neither Harry nor Edmund and would soon grow dusty on the shelf. She glanced at the clock. It would soon be time to dine, after which she would pass an hour or so enduring more of Lady Bantham’s vague condescension before finally being free to climb up to her lonely bedchamber. There, beneath the slanting eaves, she would indulge her passions and her heart’s desire until her throat grew

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hoarse from holding in her cries of delight. Then she would sleep. Pity she would wake to another lonely day precisely like this one. **** “You are such a dull stick, Bantham.” Harry Crawford bent over the billiard table and cued up his ball. He struck, hitting Edmund’s ball with a resounding crack. “Your reticence never ceases to amaze me.” Edmund Bantham bristled at the comments as he watched both balls slip into pockets hanging from the table. “Three points for you. And you care nothing of decorum, Mr. Crawford.” Harry winked, demonstrating a particularly exasperating habit of his. He withdrew the balls and took another shot, missing this time to Edmund’s satisfaction. He waved a hand. “What good is decorum when there is fun to be had?” “What you suggest…I assure you I have never thought of such a thing.” “Then you haven’t lived,” Harry said. “You’ve truly never shared a woman? Not even with your brother?” “Hardly!” “Well, there are several comely wenches at the Sheep’s Teat, Bantham. Just think, you plowing her cunt as she sucks my cock down to the root.” Edmund felt his cheeks redden. “Really, Crawford!” “Or we can take her at the same time.” His suggestion struck Edmund dumb. Harry gazed expectantly at him, but Edmund could not find an argument against the provocative image he evoked. “Do go easy, brother.” Mary Crawford breezed into the room. “Are you badgering Mr. Bantham again?” Edmund pulled his gaze from Harry to look at the pretty girl so recently come into the county. She didn’t appear to have heard her

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brother’s outrageous suggestion, thank God. He studied her for a moment. She was a vivacious and lively young woman, quite sophisticated and nothing at all what he wanted. No. He sucked in a breath. He wanted Fanny. He had begun to suspect that Mr. Harry Crawford wanted her as well, and he was just the sort of libertine to snatch her right from under Edmund’s nose. “You do not have to take up my case, Miss Crawford,” Edmund told her, taking his own shot. Harry’s cue ball sank into its intended pocket. “Two points for me. I daresay I am immune to your brother’s vexations at this point.” “Ho, my vexations?” Harry laughed. “Urging you to join me in the village for…a drink hardly seems vexing.” Edmund felt his lips twitch and suppressed an answering smile. “I have duties, Mr. Crawford. My family quite depends on me, with my father and brother gone to Antigua.” “Ah, your brother.” Miss Crawford sighed. “I had so hoped to make his acquaintance on this visit, Edmund.” Edmund arched a brow at her overly familiar address then bent to make his next shot. “I am sorry to see you disappointed, Miss Crawford. Tom and my father both are not expected back for several weeks.” Mary Crawford trailed her fingers over the billiard table as she sidled closer to him. “Perhaps we shall have some entertainment then?” Edmund looked into her sparkling eyes, clear blue like her brother’s. They were quite fetching, set beneath graceful golden eyebrows, though they were nothing compared to Fanny’s deep brown ones. When Fanny gazed up at him he felt it to his soul. He grimaced to himself. He was in a bad way. “Entertainment, Miss Crawford? Why, Rushton’s picnic is but three days hence.” “Oh, pooh. A picnic is so very sedate. I know!” she declared,

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clasping her hands. “What of a party? Your sisters would no doubt wish to attend.” She flicked a glance at Harry. “What say you to a party, brother? Both of the lovely Bantham girls to tease and flirt with?” Harry ran a hand through his blond curls, tousled in what Edmund guessed was a deliberate fashion. “You forget, sister, that Miss Maria Bantham is betrothed to Rushton.” “Yes, yes,” Mary said. “Dull fellow, that Rushton,” Edmund silently agreed. “I am certain Julia would not be averse to a party, Crawford. She seems quite interested in you.” “Ah, but am I interested in her?” Harry asked. “I daresay not at present.” Damn. Edmund missed his next shot and stepped back from the table. “Oh?” Harry’s eyes twinkled. “Should I have you guess who draws my interest, Bantham?” “Oh, do!” Mary said. “Whom do you think my brother favors, Edmund?” She came and stood quite close to Edmund now. Her perfume, some sort of expensive scent he’d caught on his sisters before, was not unpleasant. It was nothing to the fresh scent of his Fanny, however. Warm and sweet, like roses after a summer rain. His cock twitched to awakening life in his breeches. Harry laughed low in his throat. “Ah, I would wager he knows precisely whom I favor.” Edmund’s fingers tightened around the billiard cue. Yes, he’d seen Harry flirting with Fanny. Sitting close to her, drawing her into conversation as the others in the room paid her little attention as was their custom. Damn it, that was Edmund’s place! “I will not play your games this day, Crawford,” Edmund declared. He placed his cue deliberately on the table and bowed sharply. “I concede the billiards as well. I am no doubt needed at home.”

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Harry didn’t seem the least bit put off by Edmund’s mood or demeanor, blast him. No, the man grinned. The smile wreathed his pretty face. Was he thinking of indulging himself with a serving wench? Or was he thinking of Fanny? “Do go then, Bantham. Go and see to the welfare of your family. To your sisters, your mother.” He winked again. “And to another ensconced within Madison Park’s thick stone walls.” Edmund narrowed his eyes then bowed in Mary Crawford’s direction. “Good day, Miss Crawford.” “Good day.” She dimpled. “Do not fret over Harry’s antics. I daresay I can get the truth out of him. I shall make it my mission.” Edmund doubted Harry would disclose his suggestion to her. Surely her ears would scorch should she get today’s particular story out of her brother. Without another word to either sibling, Edmund took his leave. “Damn Crawford, anyway,” he grumbled as he mounted his horse. Harry was smitten with Fanny. That was clear. Edmund’s sisters didn’t see it, however. They flirted with Harry, curried Mary’s favor, and acted like they had never seen Londoners before. Maria and Julia were too involved with their own concerns to ever give any to Fanny. That was how it had always been and that was how it would undoubtedly continue. As for Edmund? He couldn’t be more aware of the girl’s every move. From the very first he’d been drawn to Fanny. As a child she’d captivated him with her serenity and sweetness. As a woman? He drew in a deep breath and shifted to ease his aching cock. As a woman she drove him mad. That one brazen kiss he’d stolen still lingered in his mind if not on his lips. There wasn’t a day in which he didn’t long to taste her again. She appeared unaffected, for the most part. She was a contradiction to be sure. So still always, her lush figure clad in somber garments, her remarkable hair twisted in some kind of confining style. He’d caught that dark gaze of hers, however. Trailing over him when she thought

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him unaware. What was she thinking? Feeling? He’d pay a king’s ransom to know. Did she return Crawford’s attentions? Or did she still consider Edmund her champion? He rode the short distance home from the Crawford’s temporary residence and dismounted in the courtyard. After handing a groom his reins, he turned toward the covered walkway. There was a shift in the shadows in that deserted passage, and he glimpsed a slight figure hidden within. As he stepped closer a scent struck him. Roses. Warm and sweet. His body flushed hot as his cock grew harder. “Fanny,” he breathed.

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Chapter 2 Fanny stilled, a gasp escaping her lips. Oh, here was Edmund at last! Her heart began to race. “Fanny,” he said again. She hid her trembling hands behind her skirts. “Here, Edmund,” she returned softly. Stepping closer, he framed her with his hands against the cool stones at her back. She could smell his scent, clean and sharp like the soap he used. “Were you waiting for me, dear girl?” She blinked rapidly in the dimness, longing to see his face yet grateful the poor light hid her blushes. “Yes,” she whispered. “For so long.” To her astonishment he brought his face to hers, brushing his lovely mouth against her lips. She opened brazenly beneath his lips, sucking his tongue deep into her mouth. He froze, then tangled his tongue wildly with hers. He tasted like brandy and Edmund. She craved more of him. She grabbed on to his shoulders, arching wantonly against him, and he lifted his head with a jerk. His brow was pressed to hers, his breathing harsh. “Forgive me,” he rasped. She wouldn’t let go, not this time. Instead she twined her arms around his neck. “It was wonderful.” He took a deep breath. “Fanny, this…” “What?” she asked, hearing the husky note in her voice. “What is this, Edmund?” He pressed her tight to the wall and she felt his shaft hard against

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her belly. She’d read of such things, of men’s cocks and women’s pussies, and wanted to know the particulars. Her pussy she knew well enough, in the dark with Harry and Edmund’s phantom presence moving her fingers. A man’s cock, however? That she longed to explore. Harry’s mysterious member had pressed against her one afternoon in the garden, hot and thick through his fine trousers. His blue eyes had sparkled, his well-formed mouth smiled, and he’d all but challenged her to touch him. He’d seemed keen on the act. Would Edmund welcome her touch this day? She cast a quick glance about, which assured her no one was in the courtyard to see them. Reaching between them, she grasped Edmund through his tight breeches. He hissed out a breath as his cock grew in her grasp. “Christ, Fanny,” he growled. “Kiss me again, Edmund,” she demanded. His mouth gaped open in shock, then his eyes closed in obvious pain-pleasure as she began to stroke him from base to tip. Groaning softly, he crushed his mouth to hers and pumped against her palm. His hands began to lift her skirt, sneaking above her stockings to touch her drawers. She knew she was soaking wet. Boiling hot. She would not be embarrassed. No, she had longed for the touch of a hand other than her own for too long. Edmund’s fingers were tentative, trembling, as they neared her pussy. Arching toward him once more, she parted her thighs to his touch. “You are so,” he whispered against her neck. “Ah, there are no words.” With his other hand he pulled the fichu from her bodice and stroked his tongue over her flesh. He licked her collarbone, delved the tip of his tongue between her breasts, as he continued to stroke her pussy. Her nipples hardened painfully against her stays. Oh, how she longed for him to put that beguiling tongue to work on the aching tips.

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Sparks flickered over her body as he began to pinch her tiny nub of delight. “Yes, Edmund,” she purred. “Oh, yes…” He increased his movements and she did likewise, rubbing her hand against his cock until he shook in his boots. He inserted a finger between her pussy’s lips, and in the next moment she came around his fingertip. She stifled a cry as she pulsed deliciously, shuddering in his arms. Edmund held her close as she regained her senses. Their breaths mingled in the dark, harsh and gasping. “Ah, hell,” he muttered as he adjusted her skirts. “I went too far.” She could still feel his rock-hard shaft against her hip. “Not far enough,” she countered softly. He lowered his gaze and pulled at the front of his breeches. “You nearly unmanned me, dear Fanny.” There was something to that, having power over a man of such discipline. She smiled up at him. “And you made me lose myself, Edmund.” She relished the feel of his arms around her, his heart beating so close to hers. There was lingering heat between them, a seductive closeness that made her long to drag him up to her attic room and ride him like she had in her dreams. To take his fascinating cock deep into her pussy, to feel his delicious kisses all over her body, would be bliss indeed. But even as she contemplated that occurrence, he collected himself and became the man of rigid self-control she knew so well. “This cannot…” He dropped a sweet kiss on her lips then stepped back as if she burned him. “Ah, love, this cannot happen again.” She wouldn’t argue with him, not at the moment. She turned away from him, her legs still a bit shaky. What had happened was as close to heaven as he would allow them to fly. Yes, he’d stolen a kiss before. A brief, teasing caress that nevertheless fueled her nocturnal fantasies. But now that she’d touched him through his breeches? Now that he’d touched her pussy with nothing between her flesh and his fingers as he brought her to ecstasy? Her body craved more of Edmund’s touch. And more of the

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passion Mr. Harry Crawford promised with every glance, if she were she honest with herself. What would that gentleman do if he had her at his mercy as Edmund had? Would he stop himself? Or would he let her pleasure him? Permit her to take him deep into her body? Perhaps Edmund could learn a thing or two from Harry. She smiled to herself as Edmund urged her into the house. This would indeed happen again. And more. He just did not realize it yet. **** Edmund watched Fanny go into the house, her hips swaying gently as she climbed the steps. Her climax had been amazing to see, to feel. Her pussy was soft and hot, slippery and wet. Teasing her to release had exceeded his heated imaginings. He clutched at the stone wall, still smelling her scent around him, within him. He glimpsed a scrap of white lace at his feet, her fichu he’d discarded as he’d tasted her smooth skin. Grabbing it up off the ground, he buried his face in it. His balls still ached, his cock on fire, as he closed his eyes and swore softly. Unfastening the flap of his breeches, he freed his throbbing cock. One, two, three strokes of his hand and he came with a moan into the lace. His breath was harsh in his ears as his heart slowed its pounding. He tucked the ruined cloth into his pocket and refastened his breeches. It was cold comfort, coming into his hand instead of deep inside Fanny’s sweet body. Harry Crawford’s teasing words came back to him. Sharing a woman, each having the same serving wench until all three of them found release, was something Edmund had never before considered. A shocking thought struck him. What of sharing Fanny? Harry’s earlier suggestion turned into a compelling image in Edmund’s mind. He considered the prospect of Harry touching and licking Fanny’s delicious skin then pounding into her pussy as she sucked Edmund’s

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cock. And what of the possibility of Edmund tasting her release himself as Harry stroked her full breasts? To his utter surprise he began to harden again. “Never,” he muttered, stalking into the house. Yet he admitted to himself that the idea promised more pleasure than he would have supposed before. **** Harry shifted on the blanket, bored beyond sanity at the inane conversation going on around him. Rushton’s picnic was proving to be as dull as the man himself. The Bantham girls were doing their utmost to reign over all and sundry, not that Harry paid them more than cursory attention. They, like his own sister, were dressed in the height of fashion, as bright and sunny as the day itself. In stark contrast was Miss Fanny Wright. She was clad in a pale gray that made her dark eyes sparkle. The humidity curled her hair about her lovely face, her smooth skin tinged pink from the heat of the day. Kneeling on the blanket off to one side from her relatives, her legs tucked demurely beneath her, she made a fetching picture. His blood heated as he studied the thin V of skin showing between the folds of her fichu. A hint of cleavage winked at him, and he shifted again as his cock filled. “Wouldn’t you say so, Mr. Crawford?” a feminine voice said to his right. He dragged his gaze from the lovely Fanny to find Julia Bantham staring up at him. “Forgive me, Miss Julia. Of what are you speaking?” “I was merely remarking on the lovely day.” She arched toward him, lifting one shoulder. “Do you find it to your liking?” If her posture was any indication, she had little interest in his opinion of the weather. She was well put together, but she couldn’t

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hold his attention for long. He found his gaze once more settling on Fanny’s luscious curves. “Quite to my liking, Miss Julia.” “I find it too hot,” grumbled Maria Bantham. He gave little notice to that girl’s complaints. Rushton was welcome to her. Yes, she had ten thousand pounds, if Harry’s sister was to be believed. In his opinion that was not nearly enough to stomach her company for the rest of his life. Now, Fanny…There was a girl Harry could spend a lifetime with and never grow tired. From the first he’d sensed a spirit within her, something beyond the shy, young woman sitting apart from company when he and his sister visited Madison Park. In the precious few times he’d talked with her since, he’d learned her mind was as sharp as her gaze when she thought no one was paying her attention. Harry was, however. He saw the heat simmering beneath her rigid exterior and longed to bring it forth. She was like no other woman he’d ever met. He’d never pursued one like her, either. No. Opera dancers and light-o’-loves had been his bedmates since reaching manhood. Amazingly, none of them had ever made him as hard as this untried maiden did. Fanny watched something in the distance, tenderness and yearning clear on her face. He followed the direction of her gaze, not surprised to see what captivated her. Edmund Bantham strolled about near the lakeshore alone, with that usual resolute expression stamped on his face. Perhaps Harry shouldn’t have teased him the other day, but it had been far too tempting. If Fanny’s expression was to be believed, and nothing in her demeanor caused him to think otherwise, she wanted Edmund. The heat in her eyes burned as bright as when she glanced in his direction. Could she want both of them? Well, he meant to put Edmund on his guard. He wanted Fanny, and her cousin needed to realize that nothing would stop him from taking her. After making some excuse to Julia Bantham, who apparently was easily satisfied with his half-hearted attempt at charm, Harry rose and

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strode toward Edmund. He seemed to be staring at nothing in particular, or perhaps the ripples on the lake. His posture was stiff, however. His hands were fisted at his sides. “What troubles you, Bantham?” he asked. Edmund started, then shook his head at Harry. “Nothing to concern you, Crawford.” In a telling motion, Edmund’s gaze flicked toward the blanket Harry had just vacated. “Hmm, what draws your eye?” Harry asked. “Surely not your sisters.” “No.” “Mine, then?” Edmund cursed softly and Harry arched a brow. “Do tell me what has you in such a state.” Edmund let out a harsh laugh. “I daresay I’ve been in this particular state forever.” Harry knew in a flash what pricked Edmund today. “Hard for the fair Fanny, I take it?” Edmund’s eyes rounded. “Really, Crawford!” “Deny it if you must, but I know the condition well.” Edmund’s cheeks reddened and something cold settled in Harry’s belly. “My God, you’ve had her,” he said. “No!” Edmund looked around and drew closer. “I…touched her.” “You touched her?” Realization struck Harry and, with it, envy. “Her pussy?” “Yes.” Edmund closed his eyes. “I should never have done so.” No, he shouldn’t have. Harry had wanted to be the first to uncover that particular treasure. After that, the two of them could touch the girl anywhere and everywhere they liked. “What did she feel like?” Harry had to know. “I wager she was as soft as that silken hair of hers. As scorching hot as her gaze and as glistening wet as her lips.”

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The truth showed in Edmund’s brown eyes. “Yes, damn you.” “And you didn’t take her?” Harry scoffed. “I find that difficult to believe.” Edmund gave a jerky shake of his head. “It was a very close thing.” Harry knew the man never dissembled. He hadn’t taken Fanny’s maidenhead. Relief flooded him, washing away every bit of his jealousy. “Came into your hand, I take it?” he asked. “How did you—” Edmund cursed again. “Yes.” “Meager comfort, I imagine.” Harry pictured Fanny finding her release in Edmund’s arms. What should have angered him caused a flair of interest instead. “You made her come?” Obvious pride squared Edmund’s shoulders. “Yes.” Harry grinned. “That is something. It wouldn’t do to leave our girl wanting.” “Our girl?” Edmund growled. “You presume too much.” “Do I?” He narrowed his eyes on Edmund. “Are you going to take her for your own then?” “It is more complicated than that. My family…” “Hang your family,” Harry said. “I simply…I simply don’t know what to do about this attraction. It is like a fever in my blood.” His words struck Harry like a confession. The fool was denying himself the ultimate pleasure because of his family obligations. Harry was happier than ever that Maryanne was his only living close relation. “You want Fanny,” Harry said. “She allowed you the liberty of touching her. Yet you don’t know what to do?” He gave a nod. “Well, I do.” “Now see here!” Harry sketched a bow. “Enjoy the rest of your day, Edmund.” “Crawford!” “For I shall enjoy mine.”

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Chapter 3 Leaving Edmund to stew in his piety, Harry went in search of the girl driving them both to distraction. He approached her where she sat on her lonely corner of the big blanket. “Fanny,” he said softly. She turned, tilting her head up toward him. A smile curved her lips, bright and unpracticed. “Hello, Mr. Crawford.” Her voice inflamed him as well, well modulated like all the ladies at Madison Park yet holding a hint of huskiness. He swallowed. “Are you enjoying the picnic?” he asked. She gave a vigorous nod, causing more of those loose tendrils to bounce. She was such a sensual creature, though she didn’t seem to realize it. Christ, he had to get her alone. If Edmund had already made her come, it fell to Harry to show her how pleasure could be shared. He’d just opened his mouth to suggest a private walk, the woods around Rushton’s estate were quite thick and secluded, when a fat drop of rain fell on his cheek. He glanced up in surprise. With her sunny expression before him, he hadn’t even noticed the sky had grown dark. “Oh, pooh!” Julia Bantham exclaimed. “Rain!” Her sister joined the lament and servants began scurrying about. “We shall adjourn to the parlor,” Rushton declared. “Come, Maria. Let us see our guests settled.” Maria Bantham puffed up nearly as full as her betrothed. “We can play indoor games, Rushton. Charades and the like.” “Capital!” he said in return. Fanny stood and began to gather their things.

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“Fanny Wright!” Lady Bantham screeched from where she now stood beside the blanket. Fanny straightened. “Yes, Lady Bantham?” “I have no desire for parlor games, Fanny. Let us return to Madison Park.” Fanny glanced over at the young people hurrying toward the house, and her shoulders drooped. “I shall accompany you home.” Harry saw the opportunity and jumped on it. “Please permit me to see you both home, Lady Bantham. Miss Wright would no doubt welcome my assistance.” Fanny glanced at him in surprise, but her eyes sparkled. “Thank you, Mr. Crawford,” Lady Bantham said. All and sundry, Edmund included, went into the house. This left Harry more than happy to escort the two women back to Madison Park. Yes, he’d seen gratitude on Fanny’s lovely visage. But she appeared intrigued as well. What was the little minx thinking now? Harry couldn’t wait to find out. **** Fanny studied Harry as they rode in his fine carriage. He was so beautiful, his golden curls wet and falling rakishly across his fine brow. His generous mouth was curved slightly at one corner, his blue eyes intent on her face. The confines grew stifling as she flushed hot from head to toe. Lady Bantham let out a sigh. “Oh, I daresay today’s festivities taxed me greatly. I find I need to rest.” Rest! Fanny’s heart began to pound. That circumstance would leave her free of the obligatory vigil in the parlor with the woman! “Then you should take your ease, Lady Bantham,” Harry said. “You must stay for refreshments, Mr. Crawford,” Lady Bantham insisted. “I am certain Fanny will see to your needs adequately.”

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His eyes roamed freely over Fanny’s body. “I quite agree.” Oh, if he were to put his hands where his gaze touched her she would surely combust. Already she could imagine steam coming from her wet clothes. When they arrived at the park Lady Bantham took herself up to her room. Harry stood very close to Fanny in the entry. He smelled like rain and spice. She shivered. “You should get out of those wet clothes, love,” he said. Feeling brazen, she looked him up and down. His cock was full and thick within his trousers. Her pussy grew tingly and wet. “You look uncomfortable yourself, Mr. Crawford. Surely there is something I can do to ease you.” He let out a laugh, low and sensual. “I believe I can think of something.” Taking his hand, she led him through the kitchens and up the back stairs to her attic room. No sooner had she shut the door than he began to undress her, kissing her as deeply as Edmund had that afternoon in the courtyard. His hands were not tentative, however. No, they roamed over her flesh as if meant to be there. She soon wore nothing. Even her damp chemise was crumpled on the floor. Harry loosened her hair, spreading it over her shoulders. He stared at her, his eyes dark. “You are more beautiful than I imagined.” His words struck her. “You imagined me? My body?” “God, yes.” He stroked his palm over that intriguing bulge in his breeches. “Often.” Her breasts suddenly felt heavy, her nipples pinched and aching. He licked his lips and she was seized by the delicious notion that had come to her as Edmund had nuzzled her flesh. “Kiss my breasts, Harry,” she said. He appeared startled for a moment, and then he grinned that sexy smile of his. “Is my Fanny instructing me?” Sexual heat and power both suffused her. “Yes. Take my nipple in

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your mouth.” “Gladly,” he murmured, leaning down to close his hot mouth around one bud. She arched, clutching at his head as his tongue stroked her flesh. It was like heaven! His tongue was rough, his lips soft, and his mouth so hot and wet. “Harder,” she gasped. He teethed her, wringing a cry of delight from her. He pulled hard at her breast, his other hand tweaking and teasing her other nipple. Her knees felt like water, and she began to sink to the floor. He lifted his head and she cried out at the cessation of his lovely kisses. “Harry!” “There now,” he said, sweeping her into his arms. He set her on her narrow bed set in the corner. “I cannot bear to fuck you on that hard floor.” “F–Fuck?” she said. “Oh, you mean…” He meant to put his cock in her pussy. The notion made her insides clench with hunger. She smiled as she reclined on the mattress. “Fuck me, Harry.” Surprise rounded his eyes, and then he began to strip. He shed his jacket, then his waistcoat. His shirt outlined his broad shoulders, but when he removed it she saw how finely built he truly was. Sculpted chest, flat ridged belly, narrow waist. He was beautiful. That bulge in the front of his trousers drew her attention again. “Take off your trousers,” she instructed. He kicked off his shoes and fumbled with his buttons. “As my lady wishes.” He stripped off his pants and smalls and she saw his manhood. It was long and thick and straining toward her. “Do you like my cock, Fanny?” She studied the broad head, intrigued when she spied a drop of creamy moisture on it. “It is like nothing I’ve ever seen.” “Edmund’s doesn’t compare, I take it?” She flicked her gaze to his face. “I have never seen Edmund’s cock.”

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Harry shook his head. “That man is indeed a fool.” He knelt at her feet on the bed. “Open for me.” She felt a flush of heat and spread her thighs. “My God, your pussy is so pretty.” Her secret flesh swelled and began to throb. “Oh, Harry. Touch me.” He stroked his fingers through the damp curls, teasing and circling that little bit of flesh that gave such pleasure. “Do you touch yourself, Fanny?” “Yes,” she sighed, closing her eyes. “Do you ever think of me?” She nodded and was rewarded with one long finger delving between her outer petals. Two fingers stretched her now as his thumb flicked over her nub. “And of Edmund?” “Yes,” she admitted on a breath. His beguiling fingers stilled for a moment then resumed their intoxicating motion. “Edmund touched you, didn’t he?” “He did.” “He made you come?” Licks of heat spread over her body, part embarrassment, part arousal. “Yes.” Her pussy seemed to pull on his fingers. “Oh! Touch me deeper, Harry. Please.” He brought his mouth to her breast once more, drawing on one nipple as he began to thrust his fingers in and out of her. She clenched around him, but it wasn’t enough. “Your mouth. Put your mouth on my pussy!” He chuckled against her breast. “Naughty Fanny. What do you know of that?” “I know not!” Her head thrashed back and forth on her pillow. “But your mouth is wondrous, Harry. I want it on my pussy.” He let out a compelling moan as he straightened away from her. Bracing his hands on her bent knees, he spread her wider. “I’ve

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longed to taste you.” Before she could wonder at that statement he was there, his lovely mouth sealed to her pussy. His tongue stroked her then began to stab at her as she bucked on the bed. Sparks lit behind her eyes and she arched closer to his magical tongue. “Oh, Harry!” He circled that little nub then lifted his head. “Do you want me to suck your clit?” “M–My what?” she managed to ask. He flicked his thumb over that precious nub, and she bit back a scream. “Your clit, Fanny.” “Yes, yes,” she nodded. “Suck my clit!” Chuckling once more, he bent to the task. Three fingers stretched her now, his mouth relentless on her clit. She shoved a fist into her mouth to smother her screams of pleasure as those sparks grew to a roaring fire within her body. “That’s it,” Harry rasped. “Come, Fanny.” The room seemed to spin as she felt herself fly up to the rafters. “Oh, Harry!” Sometime later, a few seconds, a few minutes, she regained herself. Harry’s beautiful cock was thick and hard against her belly as he covered her. “I’m going to fuck you now.” She slanted a look at him. “Have you asked my permission?” He smiled. “I daresay I like this side of you, love. You are quite commanding. May I fuck you, then?” “Oh, yes please.” As he pressed the head of his cock against her wet and swollen pussy, it brought a new delight. She wriggled toward him. “Do hurry.” “Easy, love.” His voice was rough. “You are a virgin, aren’t you?” “I am,” she rushed out. He clicked his tongue. “Edmund is a colossal fool.” With that, Harry drove through her maidenhead to seat his cock fully within her. The pain was a surprise, and she couldn’t help but flinch. “Oh!”

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“I am sorry, Fanny.” He panted as he held his big body still. “I will go easy now.” “The pain is a memory, Harry.” As she said it, she realized it was true. Her body seemed to stretch to fit his cock, convulsing around the shaft as she longed for completion. “Fuck me.” He moved at last, long, deep thrusts that caused her bed to creak. Clutching at his arms, she met his every thrust as she squeezed her eyes shut. “Yes…” Harry pounded within her, their bodies sliding together as she crested on another orgasm. She came in the next moment, grateful for Harry’s mouth on hers to stifle her screams as he found his release. He held her close then, cradling her as he continued to pulse within her. “Fanny,” he breathed. “Fanny.” She could only nod, amazed at all the feelings he aroused. This was what she’d craved, from him and from Edmund. Her eyes snapped open. How could she think of one man when another was still deep within her? “Harry, this was…” She found she had no words. “Fanny, love.” He kissed her cheek, her neck. “This was only the beginning.” “The beginning?” Pushing at his shoulders, she struggled to a sitting position as he withdrew from her. “I don’t know what you mean.” He brought his face her hers. “Did you not enjoy this?” She nodded. “But you and I…” He shook his head. “I promise we will sort out matters, love.” “How can I believe your promises?” she murmured. He splayed a hand over his chest. “You’ve yet to learn about me, Fanny. I can be quite steadfast.” “I scarcely know you and yet I let you…” She swallowed. “No, I begged you to…” Worry creased his brow. “Say you do not regret this.” She sucked in a breath. “I do not.”

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“It’s Edmund, isn’t it?” He knew. He knew her feelings and he knew her shame. “Yes. I love him.” His lips thinned. “Yet you desire me.” She closed her eyes. “I desire both of you.” His soft laughter was completely unexpected. She opened her eyes and blinked at him. “What, pray, is funny about my fall?” “Ah, Fanny, love.” He stroked her cheek. “You did not fall. Besides, if you ever do, I am here to catch you.” His words confused her. He seemed so sincere, yet from all she had overheard he was a rake of the first order. “I don’t understand.” He smiled. “We will talk no more of this at present. I know what you need.” That was certainly true, at least where her body was concerned. There seemed to be more to what he was saying, however. How could he possibly know her heart? She wanted him and she wanted Edmund. It was beyond the pale. “I shall go,” he said, coming to his feet. “We will be together again. Depend upon it.” As she watched, he donned his clothes. The act was nearly as provocative as when he’d stripped for her. He bent to kiss her and left without another word. She fell back on the bed, clutching the linens to her bosom. Oh, it had been glorious! She had told him she had no regrets. That was true, to her eternal damnation. Every kiss, every caress, was intoxicating. Harry’s kisses were different from Edmund’s but just as delicious. What would Edmund’s lovemaking be like? Rough and hard like Harry’s or tender and gentle like his manner? “Oh, Edmund,” she breathed. How could she face him after what she had done with Harry? Curse her for being a wanton, she wanted to do it again.

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Chapter 4 “I suspected I’d find you here.” Edmund looked up from his tankard to stare hard at Harry Crawford in the dim light of the pub. The Sheep’s Teat had beckoned to Edmund after the party at Rushton’s dispersed. Harry and Fanny had been notably absent from the indoor festivities, though no one seemed to remark on any other than Harry’s defection. He’d known that Harry had taken his mother and Fanny home, but in his heart he’d suspected that Harry had taken more than that. “How?” Edmund asked. “After the picnic I had no notion I would end up here.” Harry motioned to the serving girl and settled across from him. “How was the rest of your afternoon, Bantham?” Smugness was in all his looks. “Forget my afternoon.” Edmund leaned toward him. “You took her.” Harry grinned. “I did. And it was incredible.” Edmund surged to his feet, toppling his chair. “You bastard! How dare you ruin that dear girl.” Harry looked around before grabbing Edmund’s arm. “Sit, you dolt. You’re drawing attention.” “I’ll not have you tell me what to do,” Edmund bit out. “Do you wish to see Fanny’s name sullied?” Harry asked in a low voice. That dashed cold water on his burning rage. He slumped back in his seat. “No, never.” Harry nodded. “There is more, Bantham.” Edmund closed his eyes. All afternoon he’d pictured the two of

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them together, Harry touching her and kissing her until she surrendered. “Spare me, please.” Harry snorted. “You are perhaps the biggest fool I have ever encountered.” Edmund looked at him again. Contentment was clear in his posture and on his face. “What does that make you?” Harry grinned again. “Satisfied.” Though it pained him to admit it, there was but one recourse left to her now. “You must marry her.” “That seems hasty,” Harry said. “I might have given her passion today, twice, if I may boast, but there is something more our girl needs.” Edmund shook his head, the two tankards of ale and two hours of melancholy taking its toll. “What?” “She loves you, Edmund.” Hope bloomed in Edmund’s chest. “She loves me?” “However, do not think you shall keep her. Not on your own, in any event.” “Crawford, your words make no sense.” “I want her. I’ve had her and I want her still.” He leaned back in his chair. “Believe me, that has never happened to me before.” “I am not surprised.” “Scoff if you must, but know this. I mean to have her again.” “You…you admitted she loves me.” “Yes, but that doesn’t mean she feels only lust for me, does it? The girl is sweetness personified. Can you truly imagine her giving something so valuable away without feeling some affection for the lucky bastard to whom she gifted it?” Edmund let out a breath. “I cannot. But what are we to do about it?” Harry shook his head. “It boggles my mind that you still cannot see what’s before your own eyes. We both shall have her.” “She is innocent,” Edmund said. “Or at least she was until you

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came along.” “Oh? Then perhaps you can tell me whose fingers were in her pussy just the other afternoon?” Edmund’s face flushed hot. “I never should have touched her.” Harry snorted again. “Yes, well. Be that as it may, you did.” He grinned again. “And I did. And she did, by all that is holy. Therefore I put to you this question. How, precisely, do we go forward?” “What are you asking, Crawford?” “I propose we approach our girl. To find out if she is receptive.” “Receptive? To such an outrageous proposition?” Harry shook his head. “You should have seen her. She was delightfully different from the circumspect relation keeping quiet in a corner.” “She is more than that,” Edmund said. “Oh? At least you have taken note of it. She was forceful, Bantham. Demanding. My God, what she begged me to do…” He closed his eyes and let out a soft moan. “And her taste. I’ve never tasted anything so sweet.” “You…” Edmund leaned closer. “You put your mouth on her?” Harry’s eyes snapped open. “She instructed me to do so. I daresay I had no problem following her commands. Her pussy was the prettiest, most delectable I’ve ever encountered.” Edmund’s mouth nearly watered at his words. He thought for a moment. What if Fanny did want them both? “She must truly feel something for you if she gave herself to you today,” he said. “And yet she loves me.” “Yes,” Harry said in a clipped tone. “What is your answer?” Edmund couldn’t ignore the compelling image of bowing to every single one of Fanny’s demands, not if it meant taking her. Kissing her. Licking her. Fucking her. Harry had much more experience than Edmund, that was certain. Perhaps this interlude would satisfy Fanny while teaching Edmund what he would need to know, should he make a permanent offer for her. He couldn’t speak for Fanny, but Harry

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would certainly tire of the arrangement after a few trysts. “I want her forever, Crawford,” he told Harry. Harry shrugged. “As do I.” “Truly?” It was Edmund’s turn to scoff. “You?” “Do not presume to know about my heart, Bantham. Fanny touches me in a way no other woman ever has. Is it love? Who the devil knows? All I know is that I want her enough to be willing to share her with you.” Edmund hadn’t considered that. He nodded. “We shall go to her then.” Harry beamed. “Capital!” **** Fanny relished the precious hour or two to herself, secreted away in her attic room with her books. Lady Bantham had retired to her chambers for her afternoon nap after declaring that the strain of needlework had worried her nerves. If only Fanny’s problems were so inconsequential. Three days had passed since Harry had loved her so thoroughly here. Her gaze fell on the narrow bed. It had been glorious, and well worth the loss of her virginity. Any lingering soreness had since passed, any trace of blood washed clean from her underclothes, so there remained no evidence of what she had so eagerly relinquished. It wasn’t as if that particular sliver of flesh was worth anything to her future. Not any future her heart would consider, in any event. Edmund needed to marry for money. As the second son, he would get next to nothing when Sir Thomas passed. As for Harry? That gentleman would never settle down with one woman. She should count herself most fortunate that she sampled his passion, even if she should never have his devotion. No, neither of them would make her their wife. That realization didn’t stop her body from tingling as she thought

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of all she’d done with Harry, though. And of all she wished to do. There was the question of Edmund, however. She’d loved him for so long now, and if Harry Crawford could see that, how long was it before all at Madison Park knew it? They had but to look past their noses to see that she didn’t only attend Lady Bantham’s actions. She couldn’t look away from Edmund when he was about. A soft scratch came at the door. Perhaps Lady Bantham’s nap would not be of its usual duration today. Pity, that. No doubt it was the maid come to fetch her. She went to the door and opened it, her breath seizing. Edmund stood there, his body rigid and his expression stoic. “Edmund!” she gasped. “Fanny, I must speak to you.” She blinked then stepped back to allow him into the little room. “What is it?” He looked down at the floor, apparently steeling himself for something or other, then faced her. “I know.” Her mouth fell open. He knew about her and Harry? “Edmund, I…” She let out a breath at last. “I cannot deny it.” He smiled, a small expression but heartening, nonetheless. “You never could lie.” “No.” He glanced over at her bed, heat flickering in his gaze. “There. Harry Crawford had you there.” “Do you wish to shame me, Edmund?” She bristled at his demeanor. “That may be the permanent condition belowstairs but not here. Not in my room.” His eyes rounded. “I have no desire to shame you!” “Then what, pray, do you desire?” His eyes ran over her now, blatant interest in their velvet-brown depths. “You.” She forced herself to ignore the thrill his admission gave her. “You believe that since I have given myself to Mr. Crawford, I am

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now free for you to take at your leisure?” He laughed softly. “Hardly. I know that you…you care for me.” There was no use denying it, half-truth though it was. She loved him, after all. “Yes.” He stepped close to her and she smelled his refreshing, soapy scent. He nuzzled her cheek, her neck. His open mouth was hot and moist against her skin. “You must know I care for you, Fanny.” She closed her eyes as he began to nibble on her earlobe. His words, his actions, set her pulse racing. “You do?” He nodded, pulling her against him. Proof of his arousal pressed against her belly. He stared into her eyes. “I want you, Fanny. You. Not just some girl Harry Crawford had before me.” “Edmund.” He began to unlace the back of her dress and she let her head fall forward. “I want you.” He struggled with the laces, pulling them free at last. “And Harry as well?” She froze then lifted her head to meet Edmund’s gaze. “Yes.” Resignation flitted across his face and he gave a nod. “I cannot deny you anything, love. Not when we were children and I’d sneak you an extra treat. Or when we’d sneak up here to read or act out scenes when my mother believed me to be riding with Tom.” “That was years ago.” She stepped out of his arms and held her gaping bodice to her bosom. “What do you mean to say, Edmund?” “I mean to say that I want you. Harry Crawford wants you. You want us both.” She searched his face for any sign of derision or disgust but saw only desire. “And?” “And you shall have us both,” another voice said from the doorway. She whirled, stunned to find Harry framed there. “Harry!” He closed the door, locked it with a soft click, and stepped forward. “Edmund and I have discussed it, Fanny. We aim to give you what you want.” His eyes twinkled. “For as long as you want it.”

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She looked from him to Edmund, seeing matching expressions of carnal intent on their handsome faces. They’d discussed having her? The both of them? Her heart raced as heat flooded her every limb. Her pussy began to pulse in anticipation. Harry’s spicy scent mingled with Edmund’s fresh one. It was torture standing so close to the two men she desired. “Both of you?” They exchanged a short nod then turned back to her. “If you will have us,” Harry said. “For as long as I desire,” she murmured. “And you want this as well?” she asked Edmund. “Yes,” he said on a breath. He seemed to be fighting the compulsion, but that was not her concern. No. He and Harry both wanted her. She had the two of them at her command! “A woman doesn’t find herself in this situation every day. Not a woman of my station, in any event.” She tilted her head to one side. “Well, I do not know.” “What, love?” Harry asked, his voice low. “What don’t you know?” “If you two can satisfy me,” she finished. Again they exchanged a look then each ran their gaze over her. “We can,” Edmund said, his voice rough. “God, yes,” Harry put in. It was clear they were aching to try. Their cocks bulged in their trousers. Her mouth went dry. Could she do this? Take both of them without losing herself? Why the devil not? “Hmm.” She stepped back, leaning against the nearest wall as feminine power coursed through her. “Remove your clothes and we shall see, won’t we?” Harry chuckled and Edmund gaped as they both hurried to do her bidding.

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Chapter 5 Harry could scarcely believe what was about to transpire in Fanny’s little chamber. Her eyes were hot on them both, her breath coming fast and her face flushed. She wasn’t the only one affected. He could hardly think with his blood pounding low and thick. As for Edmund? He was fairly trembling with anticipation, the dolt. Didn’t he realize he could have been indulging in the girl’s amazing favors for years? Ah, but then he himself wouldn’t have had the opportunity to explore every delicious curve of her body. No, by now she’d either be abandoned by Edmund due to his blasted familial obligations or ensconced in a snug vicarage as his wife, bored out of her clever mind. He made quick work of disrobing, liking the way Fanny’s gaze ran over him with obvious hunger. Edmund was slower, but that suited Harry. He wanted Fanny in his arms directly. Leaving his clothes in a pile on the floor, he approached her. His cock was throbbing, his balls tight and heavy, as he neared her. “I cannot wait to be inside your cunt again, Fanny.” He heard Edmund gasp. “Really, Crawford!” Harry laughed softly. “I believe that is the man’s favorite epithet.” Fanny stroked her hand down his chest, coming so close to his shaft. Her fingernails raked lightly over his cock and he bit back a moan. “Edmund will take me this afternoon, Harry,” she said. “You have already indulged in that manner.” Harry could make no argument as she wrapped her hand around him and began to stroke slowly up and down. “As you wish, dear

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girl.” Edmund stepped beside him, his own cock at full attention. He had two spots of color high on his cheeks, but apparently no discomfort or embarrassment would keep him from taking their girl. “You do want me, don’t you?” she asked Edmund. He muttered something in reply but Harry wasn’t listening. Fanny reached up to free that magnificent hair of hers. Holding up the mass, she let her loosened dress pool to the floor. Grabbing her to him, he tore at her stays. She laughed now, a throaty sound that nearly made him spill his seed on the plank floor. “I have to see you again, love,” he said, baring her rosy nipples. “So beautiful.” He fell before her, sucking one nipple deep into his mouth. “Oh, Harry.” She grasped his head, arching toward him. “Suck me. Oh, harder.” Edmund reached out a hand to cup her other breast. “My God, you are so soft.” “Tease me, Edmund,” she said, her eyes closed tight. “Squeeze my breast. Pinch my nipple.” “Here is the girl I told you about, Edmund,” Harry said, dragging his tongue over her nipple. “Demanding, isn’t she?” Edmund gave a shiver. “Delightfully so.” He brought his mouth to her breast as Harry stripped the rest of her underclothes from her body. Leaving her breasts to Edmund’s attentions, he parted her thighs and buried his face in her pussy. “Ah, your scent.” “Roses,” Edmund murmured, his voice thick. “She smells like roses.” “Lick me, Harry,” she commanded softly. “I need your tongue inside me.” The three of them made their way to her bed. Harry turned her to prop one leg up on the mattress as he stabbed his tongue into her cunt. It was hot, sweet, and wet. He absently registered Edmund’s moans of

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delight as he feasted on her lovely breasts. “Oh, Edmund, that feels wonderful.” She sighed. “Harry, make me come!” Harry sucked on her clit, drawing hard on the nub as he stroked his fingers inside of her. She was soaking wet now, mewling in pleasure as she neared her release. In the next instant she climaxed, bucking beneath them as she trembled in ecstasy. Harry sat back on his heels, his cock throbbing in near pain now. “I’m in a bad way, Fanny.” She recovered slowly, coming up on her elbows to eye him. She made an amazing picture, her body languid and her pussy glistening. The rosy tint of orgasm colored the smooth skin of her breasts and belly. “Edmund takes me this day, Harry,” she said with a sigh. He wanted to say no. He wanted to plunge into her but knew they must follow her edict. Truth be told, he’d never let a woman take the lead in the bedchamber. It was surprisingly titillating. Edmund came over her but she stilled him with one hand on his chest. “I want to taste Harry’s cock first.” “My God, love,” Harry groaned. “You’re killing me.” She sat up, tucking her feet beneath her. “Come here, Harry.” He did so, holding his shaft to keep from exploding. She bent toward him, parting her full lips as she came closer. Her tongue flicked over the head of his cock, tentative yet wonderful. When she began to suck him he let out a moan. “Fanny…” Her tongue, her teeth, all worked to drive him to madness. He began to come, sharp, hot spurts deep into her sweet mouth. He nearly fell to his knees with the power of his release. “Your taste, Harry.” She smiled up at him. “I like it.” He shivered as she gave his beleaguered cock one last lick. “Th– thank you.” “I want you now, Fanny,” Edmund said. She rolled onto her back, her lovely legs spread. “Then take me, Edmund.”

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Harry felt a flicker of anticipation as Edmund moved to cover her. **** Edmund ran his gaze over Fanny. She was remarkable, so sensual. When he’d tasted those breasts at long last, when he’d watched Harry lick her beautiful pussy, he’d suddenly known this was right. There was something about watching her lose herself with the other man. Something he hadn’t expected. Harry was infatuated with her. That was certain. He’d looked nearly drunk as he’d eaten her. Then when she’d pleasured Harry? Her lovely mouth fastened on his cock? Edmund had nearly come from the sight. “Now, Edmund,” she urged, spreading her slender thighs wider. “Fuck me.” The words were harsh, yet coming from Fanny’s lips, they were like a prayer. Covering her with his aching body, he slowly penetrated her pussy. It was pure bliss, like nothing he’d ever encountered. “She’s tight, isn’t she?” Harry asked him, excitement in his voice. He nodded, closing his eyes. “So tight.” He began to thrust, slowly moving in and out of her tight cunt. He’d felt them on his fingers that afternoon, those tiny muscles within her, but around his cock? He wouldn’t last long at this rate. “Harder, Edmund,” she panted. “Please! There is no barrier now!” “No, there wouldn’t be,” he said. “Harry had been there first.” She opened her eyes and stared up at him, her eyes moist and dark, and he couldn’t fault her for taking her pleasure with Harry. Not if it brought him to this place. He began to move faster, harder, until he was grunting in tune with Fanny’s moans of delight. She arched toward him, taking all of him as she sobbed her release. His orgasm built, his body tense, before he exploded. He collapsed on top of her, his breath fast and his heart pounding. “Fanny, love.”

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“Edmund,” she sighed. He held her in his arms as Harry brushed damp tendrils of hair out of her face. “Did we satisfy you, then?” Harry asked her. She sighed and nodded. “Oh, yes.” She stroked her hands over Edmund’s back. “Next time Harry will take me and I’ll suck Edmund’s cock.” Edmund squeezed his eyes shut at the thought. “Saints help me.” After a while they donned their clothes then helped Fanny dress until she was once more the sedate young woman she presented to the world. Edmund had always known there was more to her, and it was somehow gratifying that Harry had seen it as well. “How will I sit in the parlor with you and the family tonight, Fanny?” he asked, fastening the back of her dress. “Just knowing I was deep inside of you this afternoon?” She shrugged as Harry helped her on with her stockings. “I know not. How will I sit there, knowing what your cock felt like deep in my pussy?” Harry laughed. “I am almost glad I won’t be in attendance. My cock would be full to bursting from merely looking at you.” She waved away his words. “It is really of no consequence,” Harry went on. “I suppose they will see what they wish to.” “What they always have,” she added softly. Edmund searched her face. He never realized she disliked her place at Madison Park. Fear slid its cold fingers around his heart, sending any traces of afterglow from his being. What if she left? What if taking both him and Harry was her way of severing ties here in Northampton? “Come, Harry.” He stepped back from her. “Let us leave Fanny to her toilette.” Harry buried his head in her hair and breathed in. “Yes. Bind this glorious hair lest I take you right now.”

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She smiled now. “Not until our next time, Harry. I will not yield.” He and Harry exchanged a look. The next time. Then Fanny did not mean to end this liaison before it truly started. Harry kissed her tenderly before strolling toward the door. “Until next time,” he said with a wink. Edmund watched him go, then faced Fanny once more. “You are truly all right? I didn’t hurt you?” “Not at all.” “Until this evening, then,” he said with a bow. **** Fanny’s body protested its protracted inactivity, yet her mind knew she had no other recourse. Last evening had been torture, watching Edmund reading quietly as she thought of what he and Harry had done to her. It was all she could do to keep from laughing aloud at the remembered pleasure. He’d kept his countenance, however. Not one person present would have guessed the wild beast he’d become when he’d at last unleashed his passion. The evening had been interminable. Lady Bantham had dozed in her favorite chair, but not so heavily that Fanny would have dared defection. Julia and Maria had both been home, more’s the pity. They’d played cards over near the back windows as they argued over some slight or other. At least this afternoon they were on their best behavior. Maryanne Crawford was paying a call. Harry’s sister was so beautiful, much alike in looks to her brother. When she laughed, which was often, Fanny heard Harry. When she tilted her golden head to one side she saw Harry. Funny, but she never saw Edmund in either of his sisters. Perhaps because Maryanne was so vivacious and open, another trait she shared with her brother, and Julia and Maria were so self-involved. That was surely not a trait Edmund laid claim to. “Fanny Wright, what keeps you so quiet this evening?” Harry’s

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sister asked. Fanny looked up to find Maryanne before her, a pointed expression on her face. “Nothing.” She laughed and settled on the chair beside her. “Every time I have been at the park we’ve never exchanged more than a few words.” Fanny looked over at her cousins. Julia and Maria seemed engaged in the fashion sheets Maryanne had brought from London and weren’t paying any attention to their corner of the room. She smiled at Maryanne. “What do you wish to discuss?” she asked. Maryanne gave her a sly smile. “Oh, just a gentleman of our mutual acquaintance.” Unease flickered over her. “A gentleman?” “Your cousin Edmund, of course!” Maryanne said. “He is absent this afternoon.” “Yes. I suppose he went into the village. Or is out riding.” “Not at all.” Maryanne leaned back, placing her hands gracefully in her lap. “He is with my brother.” The image of the two men together naturally brought to mind the pleasures they’d showered on her thirsting body yesterday. “O–Oh?” “Yes. It seems they have become thick as thieves of late.” Her eyes sparkled so like Harry’s. “It is diverting, as they are of two such different temperaments.” Fanny nodded before she could stop herself. “Then you have given notice to it as well!” Maryanne said. “They do both seem to pay you attention, even if those girls do not.” Julia raised her head. “What do you discuss there with Fanny?” She shared a smile with her sister. “Surely not fashion. Fanny Wright gives no care to that!” Maria tittered and they returned to their perusal of the sheets. Maryanne waved a hand. “There isn’t much I miss, Fanny. I am quite like my brother in that respect.”

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“I don’t know what you are asking me, Miss Crawford.” “Come. Call me Maryanne. I feel we can be almost like sisters.” Fanny schooled her expression. Sisters? Surely not because of her involvement with Harry? “Sisters?” she said, keeping her voice even. “Whyever so?” Maryanne just looked at her, her head tilted. Well, Fanny would not fill the silence. Surely the sharp young woman would hear what she fought so hard to conceal the whole of her life. Her heart’s yearnings. “I daresay I cannot catch your character this day.” Maryanne sighed. “You are quite a puzzle.” “I am nothing, Miss Crawford.” Maryanne smiled, a bright, genuine expression that once more brought her brother to Fanny’s mind. “Never that, Fanny Wright. Depend upon it.” With that the girl stood and rejoined Julia and Maria. Fanny kept her eyes downcast, watching her fingers’ telltale trembling. It was too much this afternoon, keeping still while her body was a mass of emotions and sensations. Harry and Edmund were together today? Were they talking about her? About what she’d done with them? Oh, it was too much. “I must go see to Lady Bantham,” she rushed out. None but Maryanne Crawford paid her any attention. Keeping her spine straight and her steps even, Fanny left the parlor ostensibly to look for Lady Bantham. She knew the woman was out on the terrace taking the air, snoozing, no doubt. Going out in that direction, Fanny then turned and hurried up the back stairs to her room. Only when she was safely secreted there did she let herself relax. Maryanne Crawford’s words stabbed into her brain. Like a sister, she’d said. Why? Because of Harry’s attention to Fanny or Maryanne’s interest in Edmund? Either supposition was reason enough to keep herself from the young lady’s company. Surely she would prove as shrewd as her brother and equally as tenacious. Fanny

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could not bear for her secret to get out, not when she had only just begun to embark on this course with her two men. Yes, it had an inevitable date of conclusion, as sure as the leaves turned in the fall. “But until then, they are mine,” she vowed to herself.

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Chapter 6 “You surprised me, Edmund.” Edmund looked over at Harry’s smug expression. “I could take offense, but I daresay I surprised myself.” Harry took a shot at Edmund’s billiard balls, missing wide. “I cannot seem to concentrate.” He grinned. Edmund knew the feeling well. Last night had been torture, looking at Fanny and recalling every naughty thing he and Harry had done to her. Just the mere recollection of being inside of her caused his face to heat along with everything else. “You were right on more than one count.” “Ho! Edmund Bantham concedes a point?” Edmund’s cue ball struck Harry’s billiard balls, sinking them both. “Not in billiards, apparently. Two points for me.” Harry shrugged and leaned against the table. “Tell me, then. On what matter do you now agree with me, amazing as that is to comprehend?” “Fanny is remarkable in every respect. I have always known that. But to see her take charge in something so…” “Erotic?” Edmund flushed. “So elemental, Harry. It was amazing to see at last the woman I’ve sensed within her.” “Surely you never thought she could be so uninhibited. Not sexually.” “Not that, no. She was decisive and commanding, however. Just like you said. I admit it pleased me.” “And what of watching us together? Do you concede on that point

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as well?” Edmund fell quiet for a moment as he considered Harry’s question. “I admit I do. Watching you with her, knowing that she would find her release and then soon see to my own…It was quite…pleasurable.” “Pleasurable?” Harry snorted. “She nearly sucked my cock off, Edmund. And then after, when she took you hard and deep? That was a damn sight more than pleasurable.” Edmund nodded, his cock hardening at Harry’s description. “It was astounding. What did it feel like, Harry? Her mouth on you?” Harry’s eyes glazed at what must have been an amazing recollection. “Like nothing I’ve ever felt. And more than one wench has sucked my cock before.” “No doubt.” Harry laughed. “She is more than even I had imagined. I can scarcely wait for our next time.” “When will that be, do you think?” Harry shrugged. “I say we have her over here. My sister is always gallivanting about the countryside, visiting one new acquaintance or another. Goodness knows our late uncle’s staff is circumspect to the point of being invisible.” “Here?” Edmund looked about before settling his gaze on the billiard table. He stroked his hand over the soft yet firm surface. “What of here, Harry? On the table.” “You surprise me again, Edmund. I do believe that would be quite suitable.” “Suitable?” It was Edmund’s turn to scoff. “Who is the one making light now?” “All right.” Harry chuckled. “Thrilling, then?” Edmund closed his eyes, picturing the three of them in the cozy room. Fanny displayed like a feast on the billiard table while Edmund ate his fill. He couldn’t wait to taste her, to let her ride his eager tongue to climax. Then to have her take his throbbing cock in her

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mouth as Harry fucked her from behind. “Beyond thrilling.” He opened his eyes and looked at his new friend. “You know, it is diverting, Harry.” “What is?” “How can it be that I now crave what would have astonished me to consider just last week?” “That’s not so mysterious, Edmund. In a word, Fanny.” Edmund nodded. “It is this girl and only this girl who brings this fantasy to life.” “For all of us.” “But for how long?” Edmund had to ask. “That I do not know,” Harry said. “I meant it when I told her it shall be up to her. I know that I’ll never tire of the girl.” Edmund once more saw that infatuation in Harry. “After yesterday, I can believe that.” “Surely you won’t either.” “Never,” he admitted. “What if she regrets what we did?” he asked. “I don’t know if I could bear seeing her without touching her ever again. It’s enough to make me take that blasted living, if only to move out of Madison Park.” “Don’t pack your satchel yet, friend. She said herself that we will be together again. After her conviction yesterday, can you doubt her?” “I pray not.” “Prayers have nothing to do with it,” Harry quipped. Edmund laughed out loud at that. It felt good, talking without censure with another man. God knew he had no such ease with his father or brother. “I’m fucking her the next time, Edmund,” Harry said. “You heard the girl.” Edmund nodded as they resumed their game. Talk of Fanny peppered their conversation, however. Her name was not mentioned again, should one of the discreet staff prove less so. It truly seemed as though Harry’s infatuation was swiftly turning to devotion. Yes, he

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spoke of her wet, hot pussy and her magical mouth. But he also waxed almost poetic about her spirit and her character. Edmund wouldn’t ponder how that made him feel at present, however. No. Harry’s feelings for Fanny, whatever they ultimately turned out to be, had brought this about. This madness in him, this sexual awakening. God only knew what the future would bring for the three of them. As for himself? For once he was going to indulge and take enjoyment in something far removed from his familial obligations. **** After Edmund left, Harry set the billiard room to rights. They’d discussed how to get the lovely Fanny here, deciding that it would certainly not be out of the realm of possibilities that she would go riding with Edmund. They had only to ascertain when Maryanne would be gone for a considerable time to embark on this next encounter. As if summoning her, Maryanne breezed into the room. “Has Edmund Bantham left already, brother?” Harry smiled at their unwitting instrument of concealment. “Yes. Beat me at billiards this day. How was your visit at the park?” She waved a hand. “I daresay the Bantham girls were exceedingly dull this afternoon. I did, however, have an interesting conversation with Fanny Wright.” Harry kept his countenance even. “Oh?” Maryanne’s eyes twinkled, putting him immediately on his guard. “You take a particular interest in that young lady, do you not?” “No more than any other pretty girl.” “Then you admit she’s pretty!” Harry clicked his tongue. “You have eyes, sister. She is quite pretty, if unadorned.” “And don’t I just know that is purely to her cousins’ preference.”

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“You give them too much credit where the girl is concerned.” Harry leaned against the table. “Those two pay her no attention, not to her dress or to her beauty.” “Her beauty?” Maryanne’s face lit with interest. “So you believe her beautiful?” Harry mentally smacked himself. Damn. Maryanne was too sharp by half. “Look, take my words as you wish to. You always do.” She narrowed her eyes on him. “You seem prickly today, brother. Did you and Edmund have another argument?” “No,” he bit out. “Then you and he are growing closer?” Growing closer? Hell, he’d seen the man’s cock pound in and out of Fanny’s delectable pussy just yesterday. “One might say that.” “Then perhaps you can ascertain precisely where he stands in his family.” “With his family? What are you asking, Maryanne?” “His older brother Tom will no doubt inherit. What future awaits Edmund, though?” Staying with him and Fanny forever, should Harry manage to keep the girl to him. He recalled something Edmund had said earlier. “I believe there is talk of a living.” “Oh, pooh,” Maryanne sighed. “He’ll spend his life making tired sermons here in the wilds of Northampton, then.” “I suppose.” “I had hoped that his father would give him a share of the business in Antigua.” Harry hid his smile. “I daresay Edmund will not leave England. He has ties here.” “Yes, his family.” “Among others.” “The man seems to take the responsibility of his father and elder brother combined,” she said. “And where, pray, will that leave him in the future? Why, he even pays marked attention to Fanny Wright,

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poor relation though she is. Such behavior will see him a pauper.” She noticed Edmund’s attentions as well? He had to divert her from this topic and quickly. “I know not the particulars of the Banthams, Maryanne. Here I stand, our uncle’s property awaiting my clumsy handling. Who am I to speak to another man’s obligations when I refuse to meet my own?” She shook her head. “You refuse now, Harry. There will be a time when the right woman will show you the way.” Harry simply shrugged. If he had his way, he would stay in Northampton forever, but he couldn’t let Maryanne know of his plans beyond this estate. As sophisticated as she was, she was still an untried girl with conventional notions. “Perhaps you have already found that woman?” Maryanne went on. Harry started. “Who, pray? I suppose you once more speak of Fanny Wright?” She laughed. “Oh, I know you find her compelling at present. Speaking of her beauty and mysterious air like some lovesick swain. But that will not sustain you long.” Just see if it won’t. “Then who do you see beside me as I build this lauded future?” He flashed her his winning grin. “Julia Bantham, perhaps?” “Whyever not? She is biddable, when not in her sister’s company.” “Ah. So I take one of the fair sisters to wife, and you can have a go at one of the Bantham men, is that it?” He only hoped his teasing tone would divert her attention. “Ho, you are transparent!” She studied him for a long moment and he held his breath. She was shrewd, his sister. Better to throw her off the scent then to admit there was only one woman he wanted. She threw up her hands. “Oh, you are incorrigible today! I was merely speaking in general terms, not specific. Who knows if you will even rise to the challenge of running this moldering old place?”

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“Too true.” Harry straightened his clothes and waved her ahead of him. “Let us take refreshment, sister. Tell me all about your plans for amusements in the coming days.” “My amusements? You usually listen to such plans with illconcealed boredom, brother.” “Things are different here in Northampton,” he rushed to point out. “I must know where my sister takes herself off to when she is left to her own devices.” “All right.” She sighed, preceding him through the doorway. “I shall bore you with the details, then.” “Good.” And then I will know precisely when to have the fair Fanny here to tease and take.

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Chapter 7 “For a ride, Edmund?” his mother asked. “Yes, mother,” he answered. “I thought Fanny could use the diversion. Surely Maria and Julia will be more than happy to entertain Miss Crawford this afternoon. Didn’t you tell Fanny that you wished to take your ease abovestairs?” His mother’s face puckered for a moment, and then she sighed. “Yes, yes. Fanny shouldn’t have to worry over making sophisticated conversation with those three girls. I daresay she will feel out of place.” Edmund bit back his retort. He hoped blindness wasn’t inherited, for it seemed like half of his family was afflicted! “I shall go up and fetch her then,” he said instead. His mother nodded, yawning delicately behind her hand. “I believe I’ll just take that nap now.” He held out his arm. “May I accompany you?” She tittered. “Oh, Edmund. You have quite the charm of your father and brother when you expend yourself.” Edmund smiled to himself. “Thank you.” He bore her upstairs and saw her settled with her maid. Taking a breath, he forced himself to take measured steps toward the back of the house. He all but ran up the stairs and rapped sharply on Fanny’s door, shifting on his feet as he waited for her to answer. When last he had stood there, three days past, he’d been ready to embark on their liaison. Today he was eager to indulge even further. She pulled open the door, surprise rounding her eyes. “Edmund!” Leaning to one side she peered over his shoulder. “Are you alone?”

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“Do you look for Harry, love?” She reddened then searched his face. “Are you angry about that?” “Not in the least,” he said honestly. “In fact, I come to fetch you. We are to spend the afternoon at his uncle’s house.” “But Lady Bantham!” she gasped. “What will she think we are about?” “She is taking a nap as we speak, Fanny. As to us?” He couldn’t help but grin. “We are going riding.” “Oh!” She bustled about the cramped little chamber. “Julia gave me an old riding habit of hers just the other day. It seemed that it was nothing compared to Maryanne Crawford’s, so she and Maria had new ones made in the village.” She began to change, stilling as she fixed a look on him. “I have to dress, Edmund.” “Fanny, I have seen you quite naked. Hell, I half undressed you myself.” “Nevertheless,” she said, her shoulders square. “Leave me to dress and I shall meet you in the courtyard.” He held up his hands. “Fine. Never let it be said that I do not bend to my lady’s wishes.” She gave a sharp nod. “That is good to know, for I believe there are several I have in mind this afternoon.” His cock twitched to attention. “I do so love when you order me about.” “Then go,” she said as she turned. He studied her backside for a moment then bowed. “I shall see you in the courtyard.” He found himself whistling as he made his way outside. He had the grooms saddle and ready their mounts by the time she appeared. She looked as pretty as could be. She settled in the saddle, twitching the skirt of her riding habit over her lovely legs. He mounted his own horse and waved her ahead of him. Her movements brought to mind a very different manner of

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riding, and he wondered how he would ride with his shaft so hard against the saddle. **** Fanny didn’t see any of Harry’s staff as they strode through the house. She’d been here but once, when Julia had needed accompaniment to pay a call on Maryanne Crawford in Maria’s absence. She suspected she would do more than sit quietly in the corner this day, however. “Where is Harry?” she asked Edmund. “In the billiard room,” he answered. She studied him, seeing a teasing light in his eyes. “What are you two about, Edmund?” “I suppose I shall let Harry tell you.” She arched a brow as she preceded him into the room. “Tell me?” “Ask you,” Harry corrected. He leaned against the billiard table, his hands braced behind him. He wore his usual impeccable clothes, tricked out and devastatingly handsome. His long legs were crossed at the ankles. “Do close the door, Edmund.” Edmund did so, urging her toward Harry. “Can you guess our intentions, love?” She did in the next moment as she spied the lush green coverlet spread atop the table. “On the billiard table?” she asked. Harry and Edmund exchanged a grin. “Does our lady protest?” Harry asked. Fanny felt a tingle of anticipation straight to her belly as she pictured both of her men naked on the smooth top. Harry free of his polished attire and Edmund shed of his more sedate clothing. The lighting was quite good here in Harry’s billiard room. There would be no shadows to hide any tasty bit of them from her hungry eyes. “I do not.” Harry took her hand, pulling her closer to the table. “I asked

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Edmund to keep this particular detail a surprise.” She eyed Edmund, seeing once more the carnal glint that had met hers repeatedly over the past three days. She’d known his intentions when he’d invited her to ride here, but now that the prospect was before her? Outside of the comfort of her dim cozy room, she felt less than certain. Harry tugged off her cunning little jacket that Julia had deemed out of style. The backs of his hands brushed across the peaks of her breasts as he did so, urging the tingles of want to turn to throbs of need. Edmund worked at the frogs on the front of her riding skirt, his hands far steadier than the last time he’d undressed her. Now it seemed that neither man was bothered by what the three of them shared. So what if she wasn’t in her safe little chamber? She was with Harry and Edmund, and she was going to have what she wanted! “Stop,” she said firmly. She stood in only her chemise now, her stays and most of her clothes draped over the nearest chair. “I wish the two of you to be naked as well. Directly.” “Then you shall watch us disrobe.” Harry lifted her by her waist and set her on the edge of the table. “I daresay that is a fair prospect.” She wobbled on her bottom and gripped the bumper to steady herself, laughing. “Indeed!” Edmund and Harry smiled then stripped down to their smalls in record time. Before she could guess his intentions, Edmund sat beside her on the table. He spread his arms wide. “Command me, Fanny.” She eyed the both of them, delectable in their revealing underclothes. Edmund was so close to her while Harry stood poised just a few more steps away. They were built so differently, each of them attractive in their own way. Harry was beyond beautiful, all smooth muscles and toned limbs. Edmund was equally compelling, however. His shoulders might not be as broad as Harry’s, but he was still well built, if a bit leaner. “Take off your smalls,” she instructed. “Both of you.” They complied in an instant, revealing their cocks. Their shafts

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were full and thick and amazing. She noted that in this area there was little difference. They were both so large she could hardly imagine them fitting in her pussy. But fit they did, and quite well. She began to feel her juices start just from looking at their cocks. They were fully aroused. For her. “Do tell us what you want, love,” Harry said on a breath. “Before we lose all semblance of control.” She brought her gaze from his lovely cock to his handsome face and arched a brow. “Perhaps control is what I desire.” “Oh, undoubtedly,” Edmund said. “And you shall have it.” She nibbled her bottom lip as she entertained the possibilities before her. She was woefully inexperienced with lovemaking despite her books and her two encounters. She knew what she wanted, however. She wanted to taste Edmund’s cock as she had Harry’s. “On your back, Edmund.” His eyes rounded but his cheeks flushed in obvious anticipation. He hurried to comply, stretching out on the table. “What next, love?” he asked, panting. His cock twitched as it stood at attention. She made no verbal answer but simply buried her face in his groin. She drank in his fresh, soapy scent. “Mmm.” She grasped his cock in her hand, stroking him slowly. The flesh was smooth and hot, the shaft beneath hard as steel. “Did you like when I did this in the courtyard, Edmund?” A bead of cream appeared on the head. She brushed a finger over it, recalling the amazing liquid Harry had shot into her mouth. “When I stroked you through your breeches?” He nodded, his breath coming fast. “Y–Yes.” “He came into your fichu,” Harry said. “Fisted his hand around his cock as he stroked himself to release.” “Only relief,” Edmund corrected. “I wanted to be inside you even then.” She felt a surge of confidence at his admission. To think that he was as wild for her that afternoon as she had been for months now! As wild as Harry apparently was for her as well. It was utterly

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astounding. “Harry’s cock tastes like his scent,” she told him. “A hint of spice.” She flicked her tongue over the head of Edmund’s cock as she heard Harry groan along with him. “You taste…fresh, like your scent.” “Fanny, you’re killing him.” Harry laughed. Edmund held himself stock-still, his arms stiff at his sides. “Fanny, please.” “Hmm.” She sat back on her heels, regarding the man spread before her. “Yes, I believe I’ll suck you now.” Edmund nearly sobbed with relief as she engulfed his cock in her mouth. It was smooth and slippery, hot and hard, and she moved up and down over him. Her breasts tingled and her pussy clenched as she felt herself swell and dampen. “Harry,” she said between licks. “Touch me. I need you.” Harry came close to the table and reached around to her breasts. Oh, his fingers were tight and teasing on her nipples through the thin lawn of her chemise. He pinched the aching tips and she gasped. “Remove my chemise!” she urged. Harry deftly did so, stroking his hands tantalizingly over her bottom. “What of your pussy, Fanny? Does that need my attention too?” She came up on her knees as she continued to nibble on Edmund’s cock. “Yes, yes.” She spread her thighs a bit wider. “Touch my pussy.” Harry stroked her fleetingly, wringing a low moan of frustration from her. “Like that?” She sucked harder still as Edmund bucked beneath her. “God, Fanny!” he groaned. Harry’s fingers kept up their torture, touching her with featherlight strokes. She lifted her head with a growl. “Inside my pussy, Harry. Touch my clit.” She spread her knees further on the table top. “I am on fire!”

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“Then this should soothe it.” He grasped her hips and lifted her, settling her pussy directly over Edmund’s mouth. “Ease her ache, Edmund.” Fanny bit back a scream as Edmund grasped her thighs with each hand and drove his tongue deep inside her pussy. She felt her juices flow as he closed his lips over her clit. “That’s it.” She wriggled over his beguiling mouth as he ate her. “Oh, Edmund!” She rewarded his efforts with renewed attention to his pulsing shaft. Taking him toward the back of her throat, she mimicked what her pussy would soon do to Harry’s cock. Edmund moaned against her swollen flesh, his lips moving fast now as she felt her climax approaching. Harry continued to stroke and tease her, his hands on her breasts and her buttocks. His lips and tongue flicked over her back, and she braced herself on shaking arms. She wanted Edmund to come as she would any moment, and brought her mouth back to the head of his cock. She suckled as she sobbed her release, her pussy tight against his mouth, and he spurted hot cream against the back of her throat. Edmund shifted, and she nearly collapsed onto the table. Her climax was sharp and strong, but somehow she wanted more. “Take me, Harry.” He grabbed her once more and eased her off Edmund’s body. She found herself standing on shaking legs beside the table, her legs spread wide to Harry’s touch. “Hold on, love,” he ground out, placing her hands on the table’s edge as he leaned her over. “Ah, I knew this would work perfectly.” To her surprise he sank into her pussy from behind. He was rock hard, thick, and ridged. Her inner muscles clenched down hard as he began to move. It felt so good, his cock touching every nerve within her. Edmund shifted on the table and fastened his mouth to one of her nipples, biting just hard enough to cause her passion to spiral ever higher. “Oh, yes…” She moaned.

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Harry’s hands were rough on her hips, pulling her back toward him with every forward thrust he made. Edmund did not relent either, and the two of them wreaked havoc on her every sense. “You are so tight,” Harry bit out, thrusting deeper. “So wet.” She dug her nails into the table’s bumper as she felt her climax approaching. “Faster, Harry,” she whispered. “Make me come.” Edmund snaked one hand over her belly and she guessed his goal. Oh, would he reach her clit before she burst into flames? “My clit, Edmund.” Her request ended on a moan she could not seem to restrain. His fingers touched her, swirling around that sensitive bud as Harry kept up his thrusts. She came with a cry, her bottom pressed tight to Harry’s flat stomach. He held her close, his cock throbbing deep and low within her as he found release as well. Edmund kissed her lips, and she tasted herself on his tongue. She’d writhed on his face, for goodness’ sake! Oh, but it had been incredible. And Harry taking her from behind? She never would have imagined such a thing. Harry withdrew from her with a grunt and wrapped her in his arms. Her body was limp as she fell against him. Edmund climbed off the table and cupped her cheek with his hand. “Fanny, I have never tasted anything like you,” he said softly. She had no answer for that, and to her surprise she flushed hot. “I believe I have abused Harry’s table,” she murmured. Harry chuckled. “That is a small price to pay for today’s passion, love.” Today’s passion. She had no notion how long this would continue, that was true. Harry showed no signs of staying in Northampton despite his inheritance, and Edmund had a living awaiting him when he chose to accept it. But today? Harry sat her up on the table once more, lustful intent on his face. “And tomorrow’s passion as well.” As he buried his face between her spread thighs, she quieted the

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doubts in her mind. Tomorrow? She had no notion of what tomorrow would bring. Her thoughts began to scatter as she rose toward climax. But today? Today she would just take what was before her and keep it close to her heart when it had all gone by.

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Chapter 8 “What, precisely, are her suspicions?” Edmund asked Harry. Harry shrugged and poured him a glass of sherry. “Among other things, she suspects I have developed a romantic interest in Fanny.” Edmund shook his head. “She is too close to the truth there, I wager.” Harry blinked as the other man’s words penetrated, seeing his own truth in them. “You know, I do feel something for that girl I’ve never encountered.” He walked to where Edmund sat beside the hearth and handed him his glass. “I’ve said it before, but with each time we have her, it seems to…grow.” “You’re half in love with her already,” Edmund stated, taking a sip of sherry. He studied Edmund’s visage, reading little of the animosity this particular subject caused before. “I am,” he admitted. Edmund nodded, setting his glass on the side table. “Then we both have decisions to make.” “No.” Harry settled on the chair opposite. He twirled his glass in his hand. “Fanny will balk at any discussion of a future with both of us.” Edmund appeared thoughtful. “You are right. At present we are nothing but a diversion for her. But soon she has to realize that we won’t let her go.” “What are you saying?” “I want this to go on, Harry.” Edmund drew in a breath and slowly let it out. “That felt damn good to admit aloud. To see her with you…I cannot put it into words, but that desire I see in her eyes when

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she looks at me? It pales compared to the hunger she has for you.” Harry marveled at that for a moment, then laughed softly. “And here I was thinking she wants you more than she wants me.” “She is a remarkable girl, to be sure. But the woman she has become, so strong and confident, is something I want to see last beyond this interlude.” “This is no interlude, and you know it.” Edmund just gave a slow nod. They both fell silent for a beat, and then Harry forged ahead with the reason he’d invited Edmund this evening. “Maryanne has other ideas, Edmund.” “What of them?” “They concern you. She is most interested in your future plans once your brother and father return.” “Why?” The truth dawned on his face. “Ah, do not say she has designs on me! I hope you put her off.” “I mentioned your prospect of a living.” Edmund nodded. “Good. That ought to douse any smoldering embers she has of a future with me.” “Perhaps, but she is dogged. She sees a future at Madison Park.” “She is welcome to it,” Edmund snapped. “I shall not keep myself there. If only I had the means to make Fanny an offer now.” “Would you?” Harry had to know. “In a heartbeat, if it meant getting her out of that house.” Harry contemplated his own future plans, cloudy though they were. “You know, this house is mine now. If I had someone sharp to go over the books, help me with the tenants and such, perhaps I could make my future here.” Edmund straightened in his chair. “What are you saying? You think to offer for Fanny?” “I doubt she would accept it. Her heart is of two minds, so to speak. If we can ultimately convince her that we both want her, then perhaps we can all stay together. I suppose you would make an

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excellent steward.” Edmund waved away his suggestion. “You would settle down with one woman? And share that one woman as well?” As Edmund said the words, Harry realized it was what he sorely wanted. “Yes, I would.” Edmund’s eyes boggled. “Truly?” At Harry’s nod he laughed. “Really, Crawford!” Harry couldn’t keep the smile from his face. He sobered quickly, however. “But there is the matter of timing.” He cursed softly. “And my sister’s suspicions.” “Can they be diverted, do you think?” “I can pay court to Julia, I suppose.” He thought for a moment. “Do you think you can do so with Maryanne?” Edmund’s brows raised an inch. “You want me to court your sister?” “Not in earnest, no. Flirt with her. Act the part of the swain.” “That’s your role, I daresay.” Harry acknowledged the backhanded compliment with an incline of his head. “Well, at least talk to the girl. We mustn’t show our partiality for Fanny in front of the others.” “No one in my family would notice any such partiality where Fanny is concerned.” Harry nodded. “Nevertheless, we have to do this. Just consider if anyone were to learn of what we’ve been about? Fanny’s reputation would be ruined and your family would turn her out.” “In the space of a heartbeat,” Edmund said. Harry refilled his glass, then his own. “It is settled, then. On the morrow we will be more circumspect around our Fanny and more attentive to our respective targets.” He held his glass aloft. “Agreed?” Edmund raised his own glass in salute. “Agreed.” ****

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“Oh, a play!” Julia cried. “Miss Crawford, what a delightful idea!” Fanny sought to ignore the three women this afternoon. Lady Bantham had left her in relative peace, but she insisted Fanny remain with the young people. “There are a few parts, Julia,” Maryanne said. “We shall have Maria’s participation. Yes, Maria?” “Indeed!” Maria said. “And Rushton can be persuaded, I daresay.” “Harry and Edmund will round out the male roles,” Maryanne said. “What of you, Fanny?” Fanny looked up from her needlework to find Maryanne eyeing her expectantly. She’d been seeing to a piece of Lady Bantham’s needlework, praying no one would pay her any attention. The lady had dropped quite a few stitches and Fanny was pulling them out and setting them correctly. She cursed inwardly. There went her hope of remaining unnoticed. Maryanne Crawford was as sharp as her brother. “What are you asking me, Miss Crawford?” “Will you take part in our performance?” she asked. Fear fluttered within her chest and she vigorously shook her head. “Oh, no.” “Fanny never participates,” Julia said, fluffing her skirt about her. “Isn’t that right, Maria?” “Too true,” Maria concurred. “Let us discuss the particulars, Miss Crawford!” And just like that, Fanny was summarily dismissed from notice. She wished to show the two of them just once, to stand up and demand to take a role in their silly performance. She shook her head. It seemed that only where Harry and Edmund were concerned could she assert herself. They were more than happy to bow to her edicts. She shifted on her little chair as she recalled every delicious thing she’d asked them to do to her at Harry’s house. And the acts they took upon themselves. Surely those performances were far more intriguing to her than whatever they would play. Sitting here, ignored as the other women chatted and laughed

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among themselves, she told herself that it was as it should be. “Here are our heroes now!” Maryanne said. Fanny kept her eyes downcast as Edmund and Harry entered the parlor. She caught their individual scents as they strolled over to where they others sat. The air hummed with their very presence. It seemed that she was so attuned to them now, her body craving any attention from them, that she leaned forward. Neither man approached her, however. Aside from fleeting glances and nods of greeting, they kept their conversation for the three ladies holding court. She refused to be hurt by this. Surely what the others discussed was so captivating that they saw no need to engage her in conversation. Unless? A cold fist closed around her heart. Unless they tired of her already! Swallowing past the sudden lump in her throat, she struggled to keep her expression even. She could not, however, keep from catching their every movement, their every utterance, from her position. Harry grabbed up the book his sister held and thumbed through it. “What ho! I shall be a pirate king!” Edmund laughed, bowing low. “My liege.” Harry brandished an invisible sword. “No. You are my rival for a fair lady’s affection.” “What fair lady is that?” his sister asked. Fanny’s ears strained for his answer. “Hmm, I am not quite sure.” He strode about the room with big movements and grandiose posturing. “Perhaps…” His eyes caught Fanny’s and her heart tripped. There was no mistaking the interest there, his back facing the others in the room. He dropped a wink and turned back to them. “Perhaps Miss Julia shall be my lady,” he finished. Fanny jerked her head up with a barely contained gasp. Julia tittered, her hands fluttering. “Oh, Mr. Crawford!” Maryanne narrowed her gaze, settling on Fanny once again. Fanny looked down at her lap once more, watching the group out of the

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corner of her eye. “And whom shall you romance, Mr. Bantham?” Maryanne asked. There was a thick pause as Edmund apparently contemplated the choices before him. There was really only one, Fanny knew. The sophisticated and beautiful Miss Maryanne Crawford would be his partner. “Why, you shall be my damsel,” Edmund answered. His voice held its usual even tone, but there was a hint of a playfulness she’d only heard when he was with her! “Rushton will no doubt claim my sister Maria,” he added. “No doubt,” Maria sniffed. She surged to her feet. “I shall send a note round directly, urging him to come this very evening!” “This evening?” Edmund asked. “Whyever not?” Maryanne countered. She slid close to him, twining her arm through his. “We shall settle on an act to perform tonight.” Fanny could only watch as Harry sat beside Julia on the settee, the fit body she knew so well placed achingly close to the girl. Her eyes stinging, she once more studied the stitches until they blurred before her gaze. **** When evening came Edmund found it was precisely as Maryanne and his sisters decreed. Mr. Rushton dined at Madison Park, as did Maryanne and Harry. Fanny joined them as usual, of course. And as usual she separated from the young people after the meal to accompany Lady Bantham to the front sitting room. It seemed that they and their guests would have full use of the larger parlor for their amusements this evening. Matters were proceeding as he and Harry had planned, with one possibility they hadn’t considered. Fanny had witnessed their idiotic display this afternoon. He’d seen the hurt on her face in those few

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unguarded moments. Harry told him earlier that he’d seen it as well. There was nothing else for it, however. If they were to keep Fanny safe, they had to affect the air of fawning beaux with the other two women. As he’d expected, Maryanne had chosen some drivel about love lost and spirits found. It was sickeningly sweet and not to his taste whatsoever. In addition, it was bloody awful and far too long. “Aren’t you going to kiss me, dear knight?” Maryanne asked him during what felt like the fortieth act of the thing. “In exchange for my favor?” She held out a lace handkerchief and he immediately thought of Fanny’s fichu. This slip of fabric however, infused with heavy perfume, did nothing for him. Neither did this pretty girl, wearing more of the same. “I thank you, my lady,” he said, bowing gallantly over her hand. Maryanne’s eyes grew dark now, an intent she surely must not be aware of. The predatory gleam caused his balls to freeze in his trousers. Harry had been correct. The girl had ideas. He glanced over to see his new friend bending Julia over the card table. He played at trying to kiss her, earning giggles and teasing slaps to his arms. On the surface he seemed to relish his role as rake in the piece, but Edmund knew him so much better now. The charming, carefree countenance was a bigger act than the one Harry was putting forward now. No, his heart was not in this play. If Edmund guessed correctly, his heart was precisely where his own was. With Fanny. At long last Rushton of all people called an end to the exercise, claiming an early day awaiting him on the morrow. Maria saw him out, leaving Julia and Maryanne alone with Harry and Edmund. It was a tenuous situation at best, given Maryanne’s brazen attentions as the night wore on. Edmund feigned fatigue to escape Harry’s sister. “Do forgive me, Miss Crawford,” he said with another bow. She smiled up at him. “Oh, I shall allow your defection this evening, Edmund. But depend upon it, we shall have another evening

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soon. One that shall not be so brief in duration.” “Come, Maryanne,” Harry said stiffly. He bowed over Julia’s hand. “Miss Julia, I thank you for an enjoyable evening.” Edmund’s youngest sister giggled once more, leaning closer to Harry than was proper. “Here’s to hoping there are many more to come!” Harry smiled wanly and escorted Maryanne from the room. Edmund sat heavily on the settee, his mind working. He’d hoped to speak to Fanny at some point, to tell her what they were about. He couldn’t risk going to her room when the family would soon be abed. It seemed it would have to wait until the morrow. He could only pray that she saw through their actions and knew she was the only woman in their minds. He blew out a breath. And in their hearts.

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Chapter 9 As she walked about the grounds, Fanny wiped at her eyes. They still stung from last night’s tears. She’d remained belowstairs with Lady Bantham for no more than an hour after dinner, acutely relieved when the woman declared she was ready for bed. As if drawn by an invisible cord, two cords that was, Fanny had gone to the parlor doors. When she’d peeked in she’d seen her two men romancing Julia and Maryanne. Her heart a heavy weight in her chest, she’d escaped to her room. She changed direction and made for the copse of trees marking the start of the estate’s wooded hunting grounds. How she longed to run from Madison Park and never return! She would miss no one in the great house, save for Edmund. And it now seemed that man had no further use for her. A bitter fact remained unchanged, though. She had nowhere else to go. Her dreams had been filled with Harry and Edmund. Heated images of them performing delicious acts upon her body had danced through her sleeping mind. Chilling ones where they plied their sensual skills on Julia and Maryanne had woken her drenched in cold sweat. They both hurt her equally, though she refused to believe that was their intention. How could they do that after loving her so completely just the other day? “Fanny,” she heard a masculine voice call. She froze as recognition slammed through her. Harry. Keeping her expression even, she took a deep breath and turned. “Hello, Harry.” He hurried to her, taking her hands in his. “I have been searching everywhere for you.”

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“Yet here I am.” He caught something in her tone and his fine brow furrowed. “Didn’t Edmund speak with you last night?” She blinked. “No.” Harry cursed softly. “Please let me explain, love. Last evening was an act.” “I know. A horrid play about pirate kings and knights.” He laughed without humor. “Not that, though I’ll allow it was quite dreadful. I meant our act with Julia and my sister.” The cold weight in her belly shifted, floating cautiously upward toward her heart. “What do you mean?” “We were only playing at courtship, Fanny.” “It appeared quite genuine to my eyes.” He struck a pose. “I am a great actor.” She pulled out of his grasp. Here was the London rake personified. “Apparently.” Turning once more, she continued into the woods. Harry hurried to catch up with her. “Maryanne has suspicions,” he rushed out. She stopped. “Of what, pray?” “She believes me to be enamored of you.” Her heart stilled. Curse her for a fool, she had believed that too. “Oh?” He flashed that bright smile and grabbed her to him. “She is one hundred percent correct on that count.” Her heart tripped now, wild in her chest. “H–Harry.” He caught her mouth in a deep kiss, his tongue stroking hers until she clung to him. Her body was a mass of need with his nearness. “Say you care for me, Fanny.” He rained kisses on her cheek, her throat. “For me as well as Edmund.” “Edmund?” she gasped. The mention of her other love caused her body to heat. Her skin seemed to itch for both their touches, her breasts heavy and her pussy throbbing.

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He pulled back to look gravely down at her. “Edmund cares for you, Fanny. I believe you told me you love him.” “I…” She pressed a hand to her belly in a poor attempt to quell her growing arousal. “I do.” “What of me?” He grabbed her hands again, pressing moist, openmouthed kisses to her palms. “Say you at least care for me, love?” Seeing him like this, stripped bare of his rakish air and polished London sophistication, made her heart ache as her body did. “I do,” she admitted again. He beamed a smile and hugged her close. “Edmund is waiting for us at the hunting lodge, Fanny. He looked for you in your room earlier but finally gave up.” “I’ve been walking for a while now.” “I see a bit of the sun on your face.” He dropped a kiss on her nose. “Come.” He directed her toward the lodge she knew was all but abandoned now that Sir Thomas and Edmund’s brother were away. “Edmund awaits.” **** Harry nearly ran toward the lodge, the hand of their fair Fanny clutched tight in his hand. From the moment he’d glimpsed her in the woods, looking so sad he nearly cried himself, he’d ached to touch her. He longed to have her again, truth be told. Once she said she cared for him, his heart and cock had started a throbbing rhythm only she could assuage. “Edmund said no one would think to look for us here,” he told her. “A private den of iniquity, no?” She smiled, though the expression wasn’t the bright one he’d hoped for. “Quite.” He fell silent as they reached the lodge, and he scratched lightly on the door to announce their arrival. Edmund pulled it open, the expectation and worry on his face mirroring Harry’s own feelings.

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“Fanny!” Edmund grabbed her and pulled her into the lodge. “Close the door, Harry. Oh, Fanny.” “Harry told me all of it,” Fanny said. Edmund gripped her arms and paused to look over at Harry, who gave him a nod. “Good.” He smiled, beckoning Harry to join them. “I was worried about your feelings, love.” Fanny looked from one to the other. “They are quite in a muddle, honestly.” She looked a pretty picture there between them, flushed from the exertion of their flight here and from sexual arousal. For she was aroused, there was no mistaking it. Harry had smelled it on her, beneath the scent of roses. “Let us try to untangle them,” Harry said. “I’ll start with your laces.” They tickled her as they rid her of her clothing, and her laughter soon filled the dark little lodge. Edmund had apparently straightened the place while he’d waited. Pillows adorned the sturdy sofa, any dust cloths tucked away somewhere. There was an ottoman set to one side, thick and stout and covered in worn velvet. It put Harry in mind of a delicious notion. “I wish we could have made love to you in that blasted play,” Edmund said. “Would you have been my swains then?” she asked. Harry cupped Fanny’s ass in his hands, bared now, save for her whisper-thin chemise. “Without question.” Her bottom was firm and supple, just right for his hands. Perhaps today he would breach that secret path to passion hidden between those cheeks. He’d brought a jar of thick, scented balm to ease his way, just in case the need arose. That ottoman would serve as a proper brace for her soft belly, hiking her ass high in the air for him. He hardened painfully. Just the thought of fucking her in her round little ass caused his balls to ache. She stepped out of his arms, placing her hands on her hips. “Will

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you follow my edicts, Pirate King?” He froze then laughed in his turn. “Aye, aye,” he said with a salute. “I believe my sword is at the ready,” he quipped. “And I shall be your knight errant?” Edmund asked eagerly. She gazed imperiously at him and gave a nod. “And I shall grant you my favor.” Harry and Edmund began to shed their clothes. Edmund’s cock was thick in his smalls, assuring Harry that he was still as affected by their girl as he. Rightness settled within him. He might not know what love was, but this all-encompassing need for only one woman? That had to be damn close to it. She walked over to the sofa and settled herself, leaning back like the titled lady she should have been. “I want your mouth on me again, Harry.” She hiked up the hem of her chemise and spread her legs. “Plunder my swollen pussy until I scream.” “God, love,” Harry groaned as he stared at her glistening flesh. “I shall search for the treasure within.” He began to strip then halted. “I best keep my breeches on, lest I spill on the carpet.” She pulled at her bodice, the ribbons slack now as she bared her remarkable breasts. “Suck my breasts, Edmund.” Pinching her nipples in her small hands, she gave a shiver of obvious delight. “Now.” Edmund sat beside her on the sofa, touching her breasts with reverence. Harry knelt before her, taking a long breath of her scent. “Hot and sweet, Fanny.” He gave her flesh a long, slow lick. “Delicious.” He began to eat her, catching her juices on his tongue as she moaned in delight. Edmund suckled her rosy nipples, causing her to tremble. Harry grasped her slender thighs and held her still, stabbing his tongue into her pussy as his thumbs worked on her clit. He spread her cream over one finger and slipped it into her ass. “Harry!” she cried as her climax took her. Edmund gave her nipple another lick, then stood. Ripping off his smalls, he faced her. “Fanny.”

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“Knight, I need your lance!” She opened her eyes drowsily, fastening her gaze on Edmund’s cock. “Fuck me, Edmund.” Harry relinquished his claim on her pussy, if reluctantly, and slipped his finger out of her backside. Cupping a hand over his straining cock, he edged away from the sofa as Edmund moved to drive his cock inside her. Fanny cried out again, her legs wrapping tight around Edmund’s waist as he thrust deep. Every motion caused her to slip until she clutched on to his shoulders. She crested on pleasure again, her beautiful face flush as she squeezed her eyes shut. Harry reached down between their bodies and flicked a finger over her swollen clit. She arched wildly in the next moment, taking in all of Edmund as she writhed on the sofa. Edmund came with a shout, holding tight to her as he shuddered with his own release. It appeared he was having trouble remaining conscious. Harry smiled at his friend. “Pleased, I take it?” “She nearly killed me,” he groaned. Fanny opened her eyes to gaze at both of them. “You have pleased your lady,” she declared in a sleepy voice. “And we are not finished,” Harry said. Edmund withdrew, his eyes on Harry. “What are you about, Harry?” “Draw your sword.” Fanny sat up. “I will suck you now.” “Not today,” Harry said. She raised an eyebrow. “Issuing orders, Pirate King?” He shrugged. “It is my ship.” Laughing, she waved a hand. “I’ll allow it. You have far more experience than I in these seas.” Thrumming with anticipation, Harry took her hand and tugged her off of the sofa. “On the ottoman, Lady Fanny.” Setting her gently on her knees, he bent her over the ottoman. He’d guessed correctly. The piece of furniture held her precisely

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where he needed her to be. Edmund brows drew together. “Harry, what are you—” Harry stilled him with a shake of his head. “I shall plunder a different treasure this afternoon.” “Harry, you do not mean my bottom?” Fanny trembled before him, watching over her shoulder with obvious excitement. “I felt your finger there. Before.” “And you liked it?” he asked. Her cheeks flushed pink and she nodded. “I did.” He grinned at her. “Then you shall love my sword sheathed in that tight little hole.” He stripped off his breeches, holding them as he searched in one of the pockets for the balm. Dipping two fingers within the jar, he took a generous amount and probed her ass. Edmund watched from his position on the sofa, his gaze hot. They hadn’t discussed this precisely, but if they were going to fuck her at the same time, soon she would need to accustom herself to a cock in her ass. His cock, specifically. “Fanny, you are still in control here.” He eased one finger within her hole. It pulled delightfully against his touch. “Tell me if anything is uncomfortable.” She nodded, biting her lip. “I shall.” Two fingers stretched her now, moving in and out of her as the balm did its work. “Are you all right?” “Yes.” She wriggled her bottom. “Ooh, Harry…” She whimpered as he withdrew his fingers, then stilled in anticipation as the head of his cock began to enter her. He held on to her hips and sank into her tight hole. “Fanny,” he gasped. “Ah, love.” He moved, slowly at first, and soon slid in and out of her as she moaned. “Harry, please.” “Still all right?” he bit out. “Yes… I need Edmund,” she whispered. “Edmund, touch me!” Edmund came close to them and slipped a finger into her pussy. It

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was enough to send her over the edge and she cried out in bliss. Harry’s climax was coming on a tidal wave of sensation, her smooth buttocks in his hands, her hole gripping him tight as Edmund continued to finger her pussy. He came with a shout as he poured himself inside her. He dropped a kiss on her supple back, easing out of her as he stroked her bottom. “You are remarkable, love.” Edmund kissed her as well. “I say, this performance played to rousing applause.” Fanny rolled onto her back and sat up, wincing a bit. “My bottom,” she mused. A smile curved her luscious lips. “Well done, Pirate King.” Edmund nodded and Harry grinned.

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Chapter 10 “Oh, Fanny!” Julia cried. “You are precisely the person I need to speak to!” Fanny regarded Edmund’s sister closely. Her color was high, her body trembling. “What is it?” She perched on the chair beside her, a place she’d rarely taken before. They sat in the parlor as usual, the afternoon waning as they awaited the dinner hour. Maria’s wedding was fast approaching, autumn coming up fast as well, and she was dining at Mr. Rushton’s. It seemed the Crawfords were keeping to their home this evening, leaving Julia with no one but Fanny to speak to. “Oh, I just have to tell someone,” Julia said. “I am fairly bursting with the news and I know you will tell no one.” She giggled. “Who would you tell, pray?” Unease niggled at the back of Fanny’s mind. Something was edging Julia toward madness, and she suspected it was one Harry Crawford. Yes, last week Harry and Edmund had assured her they were interested in only her. Yes, they’d loved her until she had melted on the floor of the hunting lodge. But she hadn’t been alone with them since that afternoon. She had no notion of what they did outside of her company. Even Edmund hadn’t been at the park often this past week. “What news?” she asked Julia. Julia leaned closer. “Harry Crawford plans to offer for me.” “Truly?” Fanny’s stomach clenched. “He’s asked you to marry him?” Julia’s bravado visibly slipped, and she shrugged. “Not in so many words, no. But he will. Why, when he teased and flirted with

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me during the play just last week he very nearly kissed me!” He fucked me, Fanny wanted to say. He ate my pussy and fucked me and even shoved his marvelous cock into my bottom! “You are that certain of his intentions?” Fanny asked. “I am. It is in all his looks.” She preened. “He wants me! His sister said he may settle here in Northampton, Fanny. What other girl here would suit him as a wife?” She took herself from Fanny’s side, and with her she took any confidence Fanny had fleetingly possessed. She watched the girl settle herself at the card table and play a solitary game of patience. Fanny stared absently for a moment, her mind swirling with Julia’s revelations. Was Harry staying here? Her stomach churned now, in turmoil as well. Oh, she had no notion of his future plans. Indeed he had never discussed them with her. If he were to take on his late uncle’s estate, he surely wouldn’t take her to wife. Not a soiled dove of questionable birth and lack of fortune. “Not Julia,” she prayed softly. “Please, not Julia.” She couldn’t bear to see Harry with another woman, but to have it be one of the Bantham girls? That would be torture indeed. What of Edmund? She’d long known he wouldn’t marry her. She was merely a poor relation. His family would never permit it were he to even think to do so. With her surrender of any semblance of restraint she had earned his passion. She would never earn his devotion. She quietly sniffed, loath for Julia to notice and bring her silly self over again to join her. Both men cared for her. She believed them sincere in that. They desired her and pleased her, but did they love her? Gone was the assertive young woman who directed the two men in pleasure. In her place was the docile, pitiful creature she’d been the whole of her life. “It was wonderful while it lasted,” she whispered. “What is that, Fanny?” Julia asked from across the room. “Nothing of import, Julia,” she said.

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Julia shrugged and returned her attention to her card game. “Nothing at all,” Fanny murmured. **** “I cannot bear it, Harry.” Edmund paced the billiard room, their game forgotten. “We must go to her.” “We cannot, you know that.” Harry leaned over the table. “Maryanne dogs my heels, for Christ’s sake. I wish she would find herself a beau and leave me the hell alone.” “Do not volunteer me for that position,” Edmund said. “It was quite enough dodging her attention during that blasted play.” “That play,” Harry grumbled, straightening. “It very nearly cost us Fanny.” “It may yet.” “What do you mean?” “My sister is all but shopping for her wedding clothes, Harry.” Harry dropped his cue to clatter on the floor. “You can’t be serious.” “She is telling all who care to listen that you will offer for her.” “All?” Harry apparently caught Edmund’s meaning. “Not Fanny!” Edmund nodded. “I fear so, yes. She has been different, Harry.” “Different how?” Edmund had seen her withdraw in company before, but not with the haunted look in her beautiful eyes. “It is as if she is pulling away.” “From you as well?” Edmund growled in frustration. “I haven’t had a minute alone to ask her. My mother demands all of her time during the day, and with Maria spending her time at Rushton’s, Julia has been keeping Fanny nearby.” He snorted. “Like a lapdog.” “Fanny is no one’s pet.” “No. She is—” Edmund shrugged. “She is everything.” Harry looked pained for a moment then gave a sharp nod. “We

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have to go to her.” “With what? Our request that she continue this liaison?” “I love her, Edmund.” That admission stunned him. “You are certain?” “I wasn’t until the prospect of losing her arose. I will not.” He braced a hand on the billiard table. “I trust you will not either?” “Not on my mother’s life.” “Then we must take our next shot.” Edmund nodded. “I can sneak you up to her room this evening.” Harry’s eyes lit, and then he waved a hand. “She won’t like being ambushed.” “We want her. Forever, if I understand you correctly.” “You do.” “Then we go to her. Tell her where we stand and beg her to take us as we are.” Harry glanced about the room, seeming to eye each stick of furniture and length of drapery. “I suppose I shall have to come up to snuff.” Edmund’s heart thudded. “You’ll say here?” “If you will help me run this bloody estate.” Edmund stepped closer and clapped him on the shoulder. “You have my word. I won’t have to take that dusty old living after all.” “And I won’t have to wed your sister.” “Wait. You’ll wed Fanny?” “Who’s to prevent it? I have no meddling family to dictate my future happiness.” His comment struck to the truth of the matter. Edmund could not deny it. “Too true. I shall be a part of your marriage?” “You have my word on it.” Harry grinned. “My future wife loves you, after all.” Edmund felt certainty course through him. Like three balls sunk into their pockets, matters fell smoothly into place. “Three points,” he declared.

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“But will our girl concede the game?” Harry asked. “We won’t know until we ask.” Harry grabbed his jacket. “Then let’s away.” **** Fanny tossed on her narrow bed, unable to sleep. She’d been busy helping Lady Bantham with Maria’s wedding preparations, but that wasn’t the reason. No. Her own dismal future was what kept her awake this evening. She heard a soft knock on her door, and her traitorous heart began to pound. Surely Edmund would not come to see her now! “Fanny,” she heard him whisper. “It cannot be,” she murmured. She rose and hurried to the door. “Edmund, what are you—” Harry beamed a smile at her. “Hello, love.” Edmund pushed the door open and they strode inside. “We had to see you.” “See me?” She tamped down the excitement their words elicited. “Why?” “We need you,” Harry said simply. Fanny let them lead her over to the bed. She should send them away, let them find their pleasure elsewhere, but her pussy wept with need for them. She was surely a wanton but she was theirs, if only this last time. “Take me, then,” she said. Harry’s brows drew together, and then he grinned. “Giving control to us this night?” She affected a carefree air she did not feel. “Whyever not?” The two of them stripped off their clothes and tore at her nightdress. Edmund carried something in his hand that looked like a small jar. Before she could wonder at its contents, Harry drew her toward the bed.

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He sat, his cock standing magnificently before him, and pulled her into his arms. “Straddle me, love.” She did, feeling his shaft tease her aching pussy. Moving, she stroked him with her body. Every stone-hard inch brought her closer to the breaking point. She grew wet, eager for him to penetrate her. He groaned and brought his mouth to her breasts. He nuzzled and nipped until she could think of nothing but his mouth and cock. Nothing, that was, until Edmund began to run his hands over her thighs and bottom. His grasp grew a bit desperate and her legs began to tremble. “You liked what Harry did, Fanny,” Edmund rasped. He kissed her neck, her back. “You liked his cock in your ass?” She nodded, closing her eyes as Harry began to finger her pussy. She was soaking wet now, her juices easing his way. Tiny muscles inside her clenched and pulsed with every touch. “Oh, yes.” Edmund’s cock stroked over her buttocks, slipping into the crack. He felt hot and hard and she longed for him to enter that secret hole Harry had plundered. “Use the balm, Edmund,” Harry said against her throat. He kissed and licked his way back down to her nipple. “It will ease the way.” She heard the sound of a jar being opened, and soon Edmund’s fingers were in her hole. He had two fingers in her now, mating with Harry’s fingers pushed high in her pussy. She was a mass of sensations, hot and cold and trembling between them. Her pussy was drenched and aching for more of Harry. Her bottom quivered at Edmund’s touch as he stretched her. Rough words of encouragement, sweet words of passion, barely registered as Edmund finally began to penetrate her. Soon he was fully seated. “Oh, that feels…” “What?” Edmund panted. “God, you’re so tight. What do you feel, love?” “So good!” she cried. Harry’s fingers moved with a rhythm, thrusting in accord to Edmund’s cock, but it wasn’t enough. “Harry…”

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“My cock, Fanny?” he said, holding her pussy over him as Edmund moved behind her. “Take control again, love. Tell me you want my cock.” “Oh, yes!” He withdrew his fingers and impaled her pussy. She grabbed on to his shoulders as the two of them moved faster. Every nerve was stretched taut. Every sense was filled with the two of them as sure as they filled her body. Their bodies slid against her, front and back. Edmund continued to caress her buttocks as Harry kissed her nipples. Pleasure crested and broke over her as her pussy pulled hard on Harry’s cock. She screamed both their names as she came between them. They did not stop. They moved faster still, working her toward another climax that left her shaking. Harry found his release, followed closely by Edmund. She slumped onto Harry’s chest, kissing his damp skin. He stroked her back as Edmund trailed kisses over it. “I could feel you, Harry,” Edmund said on a breath. “We were both—” “Loving her,” Harry said. He kissed her forehead. “And we’re never going to stop.” Fanny could only sigh in answer until his words penetrated her hazy mind. “W–What?” “I love you, Fanny,” Harry said. She pushed off his shoulders, trying to get her passion-pleased brain to work. “You love me?” “I love you, too,” Edmund said in her ear. They were both still inside of her, twitching with the aftereffects of their release. Her body held tightly to them even as her mind rejected their words. “You love me.” Harry stroked her cheek. “Yes.” She swatted his hand away. “Let me go.” “Fanny…” he said. “Edmund, let me go!” she cried. Edmund withdrew and stepped

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away, and she scrambled off of Harry’s lap. She wrenched on her nightdress, smoothing her wild hair back from her face. “This is nonsense!” “It is not,” Harry said. He reclined on her bed, looking far too tempting there. “Marry me. Edmund will live with us, and the three of us can have this forever.” She stared at him. “What?” Edmund touched her shoulder and she yanked out of his grasp. “This can work, Fanny. We have decided—” “You’ve decided?” She shook with anger. “You’ve decided? It was decided that I move here ten years ago, Edmund. I had no say. It was decided that I serve as your mother’s companion. I had no say. And now you tell me that you have decided I shall be wanton mistress to the two of you?” “Not our mistress, love,” Edmund said. “We want you as our wife.” Oh, it was too much. “Get out.” Harry sat up, confusion stamped on his handsome face. “Fanny, you don’t understand.” “I understand quite well. You would never marry a woman like me. This isn’t you talking, Harry. This is your cock!” She whirled on Edmund. “And yours as well! Your family would never let you leave Madison Park, not unless you took that living.” Edmund reached for her but she stepped away. He fisted his hands. “Please let us explain.” “I have given you two everything,” she said. “I will not give you my future.” “Our future,” Harry said. Her heart quaked. “No. My future, Harry. My life might not be much but it is the only one I have. I will not throw it away for a few more weeks of this madness.” They both stared at her, beautifully naked and achingly desirable. She closed her eyes and sank down onto the bed. “Please go.”

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She heard their clothes rustling as they dressed. They thankfully left her alone to her thoughts without another word. Why would they? They’d come here to take her completely, and they had. They’d taken her body and her soul, truth be told. Her heart was already theirs. Curling onto her side, she let the tears come. Everything was over now. The best she could do now was go back to the being the grateful poor relation and pray that Lady Bantham wouldn’t hear of her disgrace. After what she’d willingly done with Harry and Edmund, she truly had nowhere else to go.

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Chapter 11 The wedding guests happily indulged in Mr. Rushton’s food and drink, oblivious to all but the pleasures of the day. The Banthams were beyond pleased, for Sir Thomas and Tom had returned from Antigua just three days before. Fanny had done little but stand on the fringes of the activities once the preparations were complete. She was grateful that everyone seemed so captivated by the bride and groom that no Bantham paid her any mind. That included Edmund. Over the past two weeks he’d moped about the house whenever she’d caught a glimpse of him, but she’d swiftly left any room he entered. The Crawfords paid calls but she kept out of their company as well. Maryanne still apparently entertained designs on Edmund, and, though Harry had insisted that he would never wed Julia, that possibility was never far from Fanny’s mind. While neither gentleman was dancing attendance on those ladies today, she could not shake the notion. Standing off in the shade of one of the many large trees on Mr. Rushton’s property, she watched the festivities with little enjoyment. She leaned back, the bark of the tree behind her biting into her cast-off gown. She looked passable, Lady Bantham had declared. Passable. Harry and Edmund had called her beautiful. They’d shown their attraction with their hungry eyes and their eager bodies. In their arms she’d felt like a true lady, as contradictory as that should be. It had all been an illusion. “I should really stop reading those novels,” she muttered. “Never that,” said a feminine voice.

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She raised her head to find Maryanne Crawford before her. “Miss Crawford.” “Maryanne, please.” She winked. “Aren’t we to be related soon?” Her statement scraped over Fanny’s raw heart. “When you marry Edmund, you mean?” “Edmund? No!” “Tom, then?” “Hmm, perhaps. But I meant when you marry my brother.” “Miss Crawford, I do not know what your brother told you—” “Harry told me he loves you, Fanny. Can you deny that he told you the same?” Fanny’s throat grew tight. “I cannot.” “And you love him?” Fanny nodded. She appeared triumphant. “Then there you have it!” “There is more to consider, Miss Crawford.” “Maryanne. And what more can there be? The fact that Edmund will join the two of you?” Fanny’s mouth gaped. “You know of Edmund as well?” “He will be Harry’s steward,” Maryanne finished. “Whatever else could I mean?” Fanny eyed her closely, seeing a glint of understanding she must be imagining. “Miss Crawford…” “Maryanne.” She hugged Fanny. “We shall discuss your wedding clothes later.” “I have not accepted.” “You will. What woman could resist my brother?” Maryanne left her to her confusion. What, precisely, did Harry’s sister know? She could not know about their indiscretions. It would be beyond scandalous! She would not stand back and watch her life crumble, no matter it was less than full. She must find Lady Bantham and make certain that she was a necessary fixture at Madison Park. Perhaps now that Maria

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was gone, the woman would find she needed Fanny more than ever. She walked among the guests, searching for the mother of the bride. “Fanny!” Edmund called. She froze, her lungs seizing. “Edmund.” “You are about to miss the announcement,” he said. “Come. I daresay Harry will set the tongues wagging.” “Edmund, if this is about his ridiculous proposal…” “Ridiculous? You haven’t heard his speech, as I have too many times to count over this interminable fortnight.” “His speech?” Edmund grinned, grabbing her hand. “Do hurry.” She stumbled behind him as he tugged her toward the Banthams. Lady Bantham smiled fondly up at her. Sir Thomas appeared bored and Tom appeared drunk. Maria was fairly spinning while Julia pouted. The reason for her sour expression soon presented itself. Harry joined them with Maryanne on his arm. The look he gave Fanny, in full view of the family, seemed to confirm what Maryanne had told her. Love showed in his eyes! “Edmund, is Harry about to—Oh, I cannot imagine!” Edmund brought his mouth to her ear. “Imagine, love. We shall have it all.” Her pulse tripped as she contemplated all that could mean. She would have Harry and Edmund forever? Dare she hope? “Sir Thomas,” Harry said with a gallant bow. “Lady Bantham. As I know you are Fanny Wright’s closest relations in Northampton, I wanted you to know of my intentions toward her.” “Intentions?” Julia murmured. “Intentions?” she screeched. “What is this?” Sir Thomas roused himself, his jowls jiggling. “You have intentions toward our Fanny?” Fanny blinked at the man’s affectionate tone. “Yes,” Harry said. “I have asked her to marry me.” Mouths gaped and eyes gawked in her direction and she wished to sink into the trodden grass beneath her borrowed slippers.

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“You?” Julia asked with a squeak. “Marry Fanny?” “If she’ll have me,” Harry said, turning toward Fanny. She could not find her voice. So used to holding her tongue in the presence of the family, she could not form the words to accept. And accept she would, for the love showing in both his and Edmund’s eyes was undeniable. They loved her. They wanted her. Forever. “Of course she’ll have you,” Tom snorted. “Be a fool not to grab on to any man who offered for her.” “Be that as it may,” Harry began, “Fanny will move into my home directly.” He held up a hand. “My sister shall serve as chaperone until the wedding. I’ve taken the liberty of posting the banns.” “You presume too much, Mr. Crawford,” Fanny said at last. His eyes sparkled as he looked at her. “Forgive me. Will you marry me, Fanny?” The Banthams’ expressions changed swiftly to those of anticipation, aside from Julia’s. Edmund gave her a nearly imperceptible nod. It was all the encouragement she needed. “Yes, Mr. Crawford. I will marry you.” Arms encircled her and she found herself in Maryanne Crawford’s warm embrace. “I know all of it, Fanny,” she whispered. “No one shall hear of it from me.” Fanny’s eyes pricked. It seemed she wasn’t only getting a husband, two of them actually, but a sister as well. “Thank you, Maryanne.” Harry grabbed her from Maryanne’s grasp and placed her hand firmly in the crook of his arm. Feeling like the confident woman she’d always been with them in private, Fanny straightened her spine and faced the Banthams. “I am ever so grateful to you for all you have done for me, Sir Thomas,” she said. She smiled at his wife. “And to you, Lady Bantham.” Lady Bantham nodded. “Very well, Fanny. Very well. But who shall pour my tea?”

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“Perhaps Julia,” Edmund quipped. That girl gasped then sank low in her chair. “Bother. Who knows how much time will pass before another eligible gentleman comes into the county?” Fanny gave no care to her words, for Harry and Edmund spirited her away from the wedding to Harry’s house. Once again they loved her until she was replete with satisfaction. As they held her afterward, their heartbeats slowly returning to normal beneath her touch, she felt like she was finally home. After so many years of having nothing to call her own, she would have everything she could ever want. She was the poor relation no longer.

THE END WWW.JOSIEDENNIS.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Josie Dennis writes erotic romances for the discerning reader. Her characters find love in the most amazing places and the Happily Ever After is a guarantee. Readers who like their romances hot and their heroes and heroines open to ideas they’ve only explored in their fantasies will find her erotic romances quite satisfying. Josie divides her time between Central Florida and New England.

Also by Josie Dennis Ménage Amour: Classics Rekindled 1: Wild Heights Ménage Amour: Classics Rekindled 2: Emmy’s Lesson Ménage Amour: Classics Rekindled 3: Tessa’s Redemption

Available at BOOKSTRAND.COM

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