The Duke's Blind Temptation

The Duke’s Blind Temptation Raeford Kenton, Earl of Leyland and heir to his father's title of Duke, has nightmares about when he became blind. Baron Upton's daughter, Eleanor, has secretly loved Rafe for several years. Believing he needs help, she rides to his retreat, his hunting lodge. Despite Rafe's determination to send her away, she returns to show him how to live blind. Heated desire swirls around them. When Rafe warns her he will not marry, she asks him to be her lover. Rafe says no and sends her home, but persistence and temptation wears away his resolve. His father's unexpected death brings new responsibilities and the return of a previous fiancée, Lavinia. Will Rafe chose Lavinia, the proper bride, or Ellie, his love, to be Duchess? Genre: Historical Length: 29,880 words

THE DUKE’S BLIND TEMPTATION

Paige Cameron

EVERLASTING CLASSIC

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Everlasting Classic

THE DUKE’S BLIND TEMPTATION Copyright © 2011 by Paige Cameron E-book ISBN: 1-61034-353-0 First E-book Publication: March 2011 Cover design by Les Byerley 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.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of The Duke’s Blind Temptation by Paige Cameron from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or group has resale rights, auction rights, membership rights, sharing rights, or any kind of rights to sell or to give away a copy of this book. The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying readers high-quality reading entertainment. This is Paige Cameron’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. Cameron’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

DEDICATION This book is dedicated to Lara. Thank you for your help, your encouragement, and most of all for your friendship.

THE DUKE’S BLIND TEMPTATION PAIGE CAMERON Copyright © 2011

Chapter One Night after night, Raeford Anthony Kenton, Earl of Leyland, awoke, drenched in sweat, to find the nightmare continued. He was blind. Rafe sat up. His feet touched the satin-like finish of his Wilton carpet. Cool air filled his lungs when he breathed deep. He rolled his shoulders back and moved his head from side to side. Through the dark mist clouding his vision, he saw vague shadows, unrecognizable shapes, and a slight lightening of the darkness. Early morning silence closed around him. He reached for the cup on his bedside table. Stale-tasting water slid down his parched throat. Hands outstretched, Rafe walked around the room, feeling along the cool, damp wall. His hand touched the side of his large, mahogany armoire, and he let his fingers trail around the smooth sides of the wardrobe. A short distance farther, he felt the edge of the crisp linen drapes. Pushing them further apart, he opened the window. His mind screamed in anger. See, damn you. But nothing changed. Leaning out, he took deep breaths of fresh morning air. The musty smell of the earth, after another recent rain, filled his nostrils. They’d

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had very little summer this year, only rain and cold. His mood mirrored the chilly weather. Rafe raked his fingers through his hair and swore under his breath. He’d exhausted any hope of recovering his sight with the recent visit from a recommended physician. His last doctor had scurried away two weeks ago when Rafe lashed out at him with his ever-ready temper. The esteemed doctor had finally admitted he had no explanation for Rafe’s continued blindness. Rafe’s injury to his temple had healed months ago. Against his father’s wishes, Rafe had moved into his hunting lodge. Here he could be alone, except for one trusted servant. With Rafe’s ill humor, he was poor company for anyone. He rang the bell for Booth, his butler, cook, and man-of-all-trades. After Booth helped him dress, Rafe would prowl the house, waiting for what? Nightfall and more sleep filled with darkness and nightmares? Always, the nightmare was the same one. He saw a figure point a rifle at him, but in his dream, he never saw the person clearly. Someone wanted him dead. But who and why? Restlessness clawed at his insides. He needed to regain his sight before they finished the job. Rafe heard Booth’s steps as he came into the room. “You called for me, my lord.” “I’m ready to put on my clothes, but I’ll skip breakfast.” “You have to eat.” “Don’t be my nursemaid, Booth, or I’ll send you away, too.” Booth made a harsh sound and strode across the room. “Your good nature might make a body decide to seek other employment.” “I doubt I could beat you away with a stick.” Rafe failed to stop a smile from curling his lip. He prowled around the room while Booth laid out his attire. He seldom ran into the furniture. His hunting lodge was familiar territory. Life had been nearly perfect, until the war. He hadn’t been required or expected to go. Still, he hadn’t been able to watch others

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risk their lives for England while he stayed behind in comfort. He went against his father’s wishes, and joined his fellow Englishmen in the fight to beat Napoleon. So many bullets flew around that last day, but the battle had already ended when the fateful shot hit his head. “My lord.” Booth’s words brought him back to the present. He walked toward the sound of Booth’s voice. Time to dress and get through another day. **** Eleanor, better known as Ellie, the youngest daughter of Baron Upton, had ridden her horse through the woods to see Rafe. Going alone to a bachelor’s residence was not acceptable behavior for a refined young lady, but Rafe needed her. She wasn’t sure how she knew. The strong feeling burning inside kept pushing her along. When she was younger, she’d often seen Rafe riding around the area with his father. But on one occasion he’d been alone and she’d slipped away by herself. They accidentally met at the stream that crossed both properties. She was wading in the cool water. Her hair had been wrapped in a bandana, and she’d pulled sections of her skirt up, tucking it into her waistband to keep it dry. He’d chuckled and called her a little gypsy. She’d been embarrassed to be seen in such disarray, but his warm smile and the endearing nickname had stayed with her. In her mind, he’d become special. Their last encounter occurred when he came to say good-bye to her family before going off to Napoleon’s war. She’d waited until he left her house, and then had met him on the path to the stables. Memories of that day were seared into her brain.

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“What are you doing out here, Ellie?” His roguish smile had captivated her. Her heart had beaten double-time. She didn’t have a coherent thought. Only that he was leaving and might die. “Don’t go, please.” Tears filled her eyes and trickled down her cheeks. “Don’t worry.” He handed her his handkerchief. “I fully intend to return home. This war will be over soon.” “Do you promise?” He gently cupped her chin and leaned down. “I promise.” He had smelled of sunshine and spicy cologne. His warm lips lightly touched hers. He pulled her close. For a brief moment she was enveloped in his embrace, held against his strong, hard body, listening to his heartbeat. All too soon, he’d stepped away, kissed her forehead, and waved as he continued toward the stables. Ellie touched her bodice where she still carried his linen handkerchief. The memory of his kiss and touch remained as clear as though it occurred yesterday. She’d dreamed he’d come for her when he returned. Unfortunately, when he did come home, he preferred to live as a recluse. This was her chance to help him, the man she had grown to love and wanted to marry. In fact, she was determined not to marry anyone else. So, taking the risk to see him was worth any peril to her reputation. She rode into the yard surrounding the elegant, beautiful lodge. The windowpanes glistened in the sunlight, and yet a sense of disregard and isolation hung in the air. She dismounted, tied her horse to a nearby tree, and, with a trembling hand, knocked on his door. “Miss Upton.” Booth’s voice conveyed his shock. With his graying hair slicked down and perfect suit of clothes, he was the epitome of a gentleman’s butler. “I want to see Rafe,” Ellie said with determination.

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“It’s best you go home, Miss Upton. It’s not proper for you to be here, and he is in a mood not likely to welcome anyone.” “I won’t leave without seeing him.” She reached her hand out in a pleading motion. “Please, Booth. I can help him.” The old man shook his head and mumbled as he turned to the left corridor, took several quick steps, and went inside the second doorway on the right. Ellie had slipped inside the small, circular foyer just in time to see him enter. She heard a raised voice, and Booth hurried out and back to her. “He refuses any company.” “Well, he won’t refuse me.” Ellie brushed past the butler and quickly strode to the room Booth had just exited. Rafe sat on a straight chair facing the windows. When he turned, she’d have sworn he saw her. Her breath caught in her throat. Three years had passed since their good-bye kiss. He was no longer the charming young man she remembered. While his shoulders were broader, his face was thin and drawn. Worse, the spark had gone from his eyes. “Ellie, don’t stand there gawking. I told Booth I didn’t want company.” He rose from his seat and started hesitantly toward her. “How did you know who came to call? Did Booth tell you it was me?” His laugh was not pleasant. “I’m blind, not deaf. I heard your voice. You should have heeded Booth’s advice.” His harsh tone and movement toward her made her want to step back. She didn’t move. He faced her, almost toe-to-toe. Without thought, she raised her hands and touched the sides of his face. He flinched. “Are you in pain?” she whispered. For a second his hands covered hers, and then he pushed her back from him and against the wall. He leaned in, bringing their bodies into contact.

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“Are you here to give the blind man sympathy?” He snarled. “Why do you all insist on invading my privacy?” His hands curved around her face. Ellie felt his hard muscles against her body, his heat, toughness, and his arousal. Her heartbeat quickened. She’d dreamed of being this close to him, but not this way with anger heating the air between them. She stared into those midnight-blue eyes, still so beautiful. His hands moved into her hair and pulled the pins out, letting the long tresses fall loose. He breathed deep. “You smell of fresh air and lemons. I always equated that particular lemony fragrance with you.” His lips came close to hers. She started to lean forward to kiss him. Suddenly, he lurched away. “Damn. See. I’m not fit for respectable company. Forgive me for frightening you.” “I wasn’t frightened.” “Then you should have been.” He turned and yelled, “Booth.” “Yes, my lord.” Booth hurried into the room. He gave a quick glance at Ellie and raised his eyebrows. My hair! She’d forgotten how she must look. She knelt and gathered her hairpins from the wool carpet. Pulling her hair up, she twisted the strands into a bun and tried to restore order to her appearance. “See her out, and don’t let her in again, or you’ll no longer work for me. Is that understood?” Rafe snapped. “Yes, my lord. Come, Miss Upton, you’d best follow me.” Ellie stepped around him and went to Rafe’s side. “I won’t let you hide yourself away. You need company. We can ride and fish.” “Are you a fool? Yes, you must be to have come here in the first place. I can’t see. So I don’t ride or fish or anything!” Her head snapped back as if he’d physically slapped her. But she was determined not to give up on him. She hadn’t expected it to be easy. “You’re the fool and a coward.”

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His breath hissed through clenched teeth, and Booth stepped away from them. Ignoring the rising color in Rafe’s face, Ellie continued. “People have let you get away with being disagreeable. They’ve probably catered to your every whim. Of course, you can ride with someone. Later, when you feel comfortable, you can ride by yourself. You know this area exceptionally well. There are many things you can do, if you try. You still have the ability to smell, taste, touch, and hear. Use them. Being angry and bitter never helps.” “How did you get so smart at the young age of twenty? Close your eyes and try to move around, to feed yourself, to feel caged inside a small area. Please go.” Ellie decided now might be the best time to retreat. Tears blinded her as she ran out of the house. She managed to remount and gallop off. Not home, not yet. Her family mustn’t see her like this. There’d be too many questions. She rode to her favorite spot on her father’s estate—a small, secluded area surrounded by trees where birds fluttered merrily in the branches, and the clearing was covered in wildflowers. She wiped her tears with his handkerchief and lay amongst the sweet-smelling flowers. Peace and quiet surrounded her. Above, a few wisps of clouds sailed along on a light breeze. She closed her eyes and saw Rafe. She’d never give up on him. If she did, he’d remain locked in his dark prison. She’d help free him from his self-imposed confinement. He’d been so bitter. Had the happy, carefree man gone forever to be replaced by this angry one? She refused to believe the real Rafe wasn’t still inside waiting for someone to reach out and help him find his way back. She’d overheard her brothers-in-law talk. They had said war damaged men in many ways, not just the outward physical damage, but in how they reacted to what they saw and did. Rafe wasn’t coping

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well with his blindness, but could something else also be upsetting him? Ellie stood and stretched. In the distance, she saw workers heading out of the fields toward home. Her mother had expected her to return before now. She untied her horse, mounted, and let her mare pick her way back to the stables. Ellie’s mind was still filled with Rafe. His eyes had darkened to almost black when he started to kiss her. Did he remember their previous kiss? Did he care about her? If there was even a remote possibility, then she’d make him love her. She’d thought of a plan. A dangerous one. If it didn’t work, she’d lose both her love and her reputation. Ellie considered the risks again. Life had become complicated. If she didn’t take this chance, her dreams were definitely gone. Instead, she hoped to win everything. **** Rafe heard the door shut. Hell, he hadn’t needed to be quite so harsh. He remembered her as the younger sister of three girls. She was the only one with wild, curly brown hair and large green eyes. Always laughing and getting into trouble for climbing trees or fishing dressed in her good gowns. While she had run barefoot through the meadows, her very ladylike sisters dressed impeccably and behaved very properly. Her sister, Claudia, was the one he had almost made an offer of marriage to before he met Lavinia Templeton. Very shortly before he went to war, he became betrothed to Lavinia. Few people had known of the agreement between the two. Thank goodness Lavinia had not wanted to continue their betrothal once she heard he had lost his sight. He had no desire to burden a wife with his disability.

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Ellie surprised him. He never expected the rush of desire that shot through him when they embraced. His body still ached for her. He’d almost kissed her. They’d kissed once, a light good-bye kiss. She’d been so young— seventeen? He’d had no business touching her, but she had smelled so sweet and fresh that morning, and her skin had been like satin to the touch. Another lifetime ago. His bitter laugh echoed around the quiet room. Nothing was sweet and fresh in his life anymore. He needed a woman, at least she’d shown him that, but ravishing Ellie was not the answer. As a proper young lady, she did not deserve the behavior he’d displayed today. He had to stay away from her. She was too tempting, and he was too hungry. Not to worry. After his boorishness she wouldn’t return.

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Chapter Two Ellie waited several days before she built up enough courage for another visit. On the way to the barn, she slipped into her father’s study and found one of his newspapers, The Times. Then she hurried out to the stables before anyone could ask where she was headed. She’d never been good at telling lies. Consequently, she often got into trouble when she was younger. Raindrops fell off wet leaves. Thankfully the rain had stopped. Cool, wet air chilled her in spite of her wool gown and cape. Her heart beat fast, and a shiver ran down her back. Rafe might refuse her entrance again, especially after what she said to him the other day. She stopped across from the front of his hunting lodge and dismounted. She tied the mare to a nearby tree and then hurried to the door. She hesitated, straightened her shoulders, took a deep breath, and knocked. “Good morning, Booth.” Ellie smiled when Rafe’s butler answered the door. “I’m here to see Rafe.” “He won’t see you, Miss Upton.” “Yes, he will. Where is he?” Ellie glanced around Booth. Booth shook his head, but pointed to the study door. “Thank you.” Ellie strode toward the study and knocked briefly before entering. “Booth? What is it?” “It’s me, Ellie.” Rafe sat by the window staring toward the outside again. Most of the room was shrouded in shadows. A fire crackled in the fireplace

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but had not yet taken the chill away. She shivered both from the cold and the air of despondency. “What are you doing here? I told you I don’t want or need anyone to visit.” His sharp tone sliced through her. She stiffened her spine. He wouldn’t get rid of her this easily. “You need company whether you admit it or not. I’ve brought one of my father’s more recent newspapers with me.” She forced herself to move away from the door and closer to him. “I’ll join you by the window, where I can see to read.” “You will not read to me like some child that needs soothing. I’m a grown man.” “Well, you’re acting like a disgruntled child. We often have evenings when one of us reads to the rest of the family. Besides, I won’t take no for an answer.” **** Rafe sat back in astonishment. What could he do with her, short of picking her up and carting her outside? He’d never known such a forward female. Yet, there was something about her earnest determination that almost brought a smile to his face. He took a deep breath and caught her lemony scent. Ellie’s voice trembled slightly as she started to read but quickly gained confidence. As she continued, she interjected expressions, bringing the articles to life. He listened to her words, enjoying the sound of her soft, melodious tone. In his mind’s eye, he pictured her as she was that long ago day. Her golden-brown hair blowing in the breeze around a heart-shaped face with eyes the color of emeralds. Even though their kiss had been brief, he remembered a sweet mouth, tender lips, and when he held her close, soft curves in all the right places.

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He ached with the desire to wrap her in his arms and capture those lips again. Heat rushed through his veins. He no longer heard the words. Her enticing voice curled around his body, a seductive cloak wrapping him in its warmth. Unable to restrain himself, he leaned forward to touch her face. She stopped reading. He imagined her expression. Those green eyes wide and questioning, her lips parted slightly. His finger slid across her mouth. He heard her gasp. His hand moved down to her jawline and along the tender skin of her neck. He touched briefly over her fluttering pulse point. His cock went hard with need. He groaned and reluctantly pulled back. “Go.” The word came out soft. He struggled to bring more harshness into his tone. “Go now. Don’t come back. You’re playing with fire.” “But—” “Booth!” His butler instantly opened the door. “Yes, my lord?” “See her out, and don’t let her in again.” He held up his hand when he heard her start to say something. “Go with him or I’ll carry you out and dump you at my door.” “You wouldn’t.” “Don’t test me.” He listened to her movements, waited, expecting another protest, but she left without another word. Good. She finally got the message. The front door shut with a slam. He smiled. Feisty and sweet, what a rare combination. Some lucky man was going to have her for his bride. But not him, a blind man who needed help to do the most menial task. He’d never be a burden on anyone, especially a wife. Still, she’d aroused his need for a woman. If Ellie kept coming around he feared his desire for her might override his good sense. ****

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Ellie rode home. The heated flush brought on by his touch still warmed her body. She’d wanted to reciprocate and run her fingers through his long, shiny hair where it brushed over his collar. His sharp cheekbones and strong chin gave him a stern look. However, his eyes showed brief instances of gentleness. Not all of the young man she’d known was gone. She believed she’d find the real Rafe inside this angry, lost man. She intended to free that part of him. Still, for now, he’d thrown her out or threatened to. She’d wait a few days and try again. Next time she’d get him outside the house. Happy with her idea, she urged her mare to move faster. Mama mustn’t get suspicious of her outings. She left her horse at the stable then slipped into the house by the back door. She waved to cook as she went through the kitchen. Hopefully, she’d avoid her mother’s attention coming this way and any servants milling around. “Where have you been?” Lady Upton asked, just as Ellie put one foot on the stairs. “I went for a ride.” “You left early. Did you visit one of our neighbors?” “No, Mama. I took a long ride which gave me time to think. Why don’t we have a party? With all the rainy, cloudy days, our neighbors must be feeling restless. Please. I think everyone must be bored with this dismal weather. We’ll brighten their spirits.” Her mother eyed her speculatively. “I suppose you’re right, and it’d be a good excuse to have your sisters and their husbands come for a visit. Come into the drawing room and sit with me.” She smiled at Ellie. “I’m glad you thought of this idea. I’ll talk with cook and the housekeeper today.” “Wonderful.” Ellie sat back with a sense of satisfaction. “Your cheeks are quite rosy, Eleanor. Your ride must have done you good. These past few days you’ve been drooping around the house.”

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Ellie’s heart skipped a beat. Her mother was much too observant. “I love to ride. I’m going to try and get out more often, weather permitting.” No one needed to know where she went. **** Two days later, the atrocious weather continued to keep Ellie inside. She prowled the house as rain cascaded down the windowpanes. Would it never stop? No amount of heat seemed to dissipate the dampness or the hollow place inside her. What was Rafe doing? She worried about him alone in that cold house with only his butler for company. “Really, Eleanor, your pacing is beginning to make me restless. Sit,” her mother said. “Here.” She pointed to the chair across from her by the fire. “Pick some yarn and start knitting. You’ll find it very calming.” “I hate knitting, Mama.” “All the more reason for you to do it. Soon, you’ll have a husband, and he’ll expect you to be talented in all the homey arts. Certainly you’ll want to knit your own babies’ clothes.” Babies? She’d never thought of having Rafe’s children. “I believe you are right, Mama. I’ll start on a sweater.” She walked across the room to her mother’s collection of yarn and chose a light blue skein, just the right choice for making a sweater for Rafe. Finally, after the third long day of rain and hours spent struggling to knit, Ellie woke to clearing skies. The sun peeked out from behind a cloud. Her maid, Trudy, helped her dress. She hurried to the dining room for a quick meal and left a message for her mother that she’d gone riding. One of the stable boys saddled her horse. Ellie urged the mare into a gallop and headed for Rafe’s hunting lodge. Now, she’d be able to continue with her plan.

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“No, Miss Upton, you cannot come in or Lord Leyland will turn me out.” “Then, I will just stand here until Rafe comes to the door.” “What is going on?” Rafe strode out of his study, his face drawn. “Is it you again, Ellie? Did I not make myself clear the other day?” “You need help. I’m here to see you get it.” “What help? I’m comfortably sitting in my own house enjoying the peace and quiet, yet you insist on continually disrupting my days.” “We’re going for a walk,” Ellie said. “We, as in you and Booth?” Ellie chuckled. “Silly man. I mean you, of course.” She couldn’t help but admire his masculine appearance. Today, he’d dressed in doeskin pants, and his white shirt was open at the neck, showing black hairs and emphasizing his broad shoulders. His mouth held taut, still tempted her to go up on her tiptoes and kiss him. The only reason she didn’t was that Booth would never recover his sensibilities. Both men stood and eyed her with confusion and annoyance on their faces. She smiled at their expressions. “The sooner you walk with me, the shorter time I’ll be here,” Ellie said. “Is that a promise?” Rafe frowned. “Yes. Just a short walk around the grounds, and I’ll be satisfied. After all, I can’t have anyone notice I’m visiting without a chaperon.” “Humph, I doubt I can trust you, but all right. I’ll get my jacket.” Ellie stood in the doorway and waited as Booth showed no tendency to let her inside. “It’s a lovely day, Booth. He will feel better after getting some fresh air.” Booth studied her. “You’re right. You know he’s refused all suggestions that he get on with his life.” “I’ll be good for him.” “Perhaps, Miss Upton, but is he good for you?” Puzzled, Ellie started to respond. Before she had a chance, Rafe came striding down the corridor.

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“Let’s go. If I’m lucky it will start raining again as soon as we get outside.” His scowl had returned. Ellie wrapped her arm around his, and they stepped out into the windy, watery sunshine. “Now isn’t this better than sitting inside all day moping?” “Moping?” “What else would you call it? Really, Rafe, I expected better of you. You’ve had plenty of time to feel angry and bad about what happened. You can’t continue to let it color your life with gray.” “My life is gray.” “Then change it. Picture this scene. The sky is celestial blue and a few wisps of white clouds are flying by on a steady breeze.” Well, maybe she stretched the truth a bit. “Several birds are flying around each other above our heads. Smell the musty ground mixed with the sweet fragrance of wildflowers in your overrun garden. Breathe it all in.” She let go of his arm and did a whirl around in front of him. Ellie stopped. She kept forgetting he couldn’t see her. Yet his clear eyes stared at her with such intensity that she thought surely he saw something. As she watched, he turned in a slow circle. His chest rose as he breathed in, and he lifted his face toward the sky. A combination of pain and pleasure hit her in the center of her chest. She knew without a doubt her love for this man would last the rest of her life. No matter what happened. **** Ellie’s hand had rested on his arm, and her skirts had brushed against his legs. His body came fully awake and aware of all her movements. Her sweet voice caught his attention. He had focused as she suggested, noticing small things he’d always taken for granted. She talked briefly about the weather and then some silly party. She’d

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asked him to attend. He ignored the question. His senses were too full of her, the fresh air, and his surroundings. Even though the sunlight was not that warm, Ellie and all the rest helped push away the cold emptiness inside of him that he’d embraced since he’d awoken blind. She grabbed his hands and pulled him into a twirl with her. Startled, he stumbled, then caught himself and impulsively whirled her. She laughed and threw her arms around him in a sudden hug. Rafe stiffened. His heart raced at the touch of her soft body against his, and his cock hardened. Her lemony fragrance filled his head. Her soft breath blew across his jaw. In his imagination, he tasted her tender skin. The temptation to lower his head and ravage her mouth almost overwhelmed him. All he had to do was bend his head down. What was he thinking? He grasped her upper arms and moved her back. “We’re in clear view of anyone coming by, Ellie.” He heard the harshness in his voice. He had to discourage her. His desire for her increased every time she came to see him, and his control lessened. “Must I remind you I have no intention to marry? If this is your way of trying to compromise me, forget it. I won’t marry you.” “You are the most conceited man. Did I say I wanted to marry you? Here.” She grasped his arm and walked him back to the front door. “I’d thought we might visit the stable. However, I realize I need to go. Good day, Lord Leyland.” He stood at the door and listened to her step into the stirrup and ride off. A mixture of relief and sadness swept over him. She’d never return. He should be glad. But I’m not.

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Chapter Three Ellie had cried herself to sleep. Still, her first thought this morning was of Rafe. She’d failed. There was no way to break that hard shell he’d forged around his heart. She had to let go of her dream. How could she do that? Whenever they were close, her heart beat doubletime. She yearned for his touch. She’d never responded to any other man in any way close to the way Rafe made her feel. Mama and Papa had both let her know they expected her to accept an offer this year. Rafe had told her very clearly he had no intention of marrying, at least not her. If she had to give him up, then she wanted him to make love to her once. To be her first. Then she’d be the dutiful daughter and wife for the rest of her life. At least she’d have one wonderful memory. Wiping tears from her eyes, she decided to visit Rafe one more time. She’d wait a week. Maybe he’d find he missed her. The party was a few weeks away. Two of her most determined suitors planned to attend. Time was running out for her to make a decision. Ellie filled her days with visiting the neighbors with her mother. Several times Rafe had been mentioned. He was well liked, and the people from the village worried about him being alone. Several of the men had attempted a visit and had been turned away. This particular morning, they visited Mrs. Brown. She leaned forward in an apparent desire to disclose some interesting tidbit. “My dear husband rode over to visit Lord Leyland last week.” She lowered her voice. “As he rode up, he thought he saw a woman ride away. He wasn’t able to get a close enough look to recognize her.”

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“Perhaps one of the village ladies took him some baked items to welcome him back to this area,” Lady Upton said. “No,”—Mrs. Brown shook her head—“I’ve discreetly checked. No one has mentioned going there. Certainly a lady would not go alone.” She leaned back and raised her chin in finality. Mrs. Brown wouldn’t have the first idea on how to be discreet. Ellie studied her mother’s expression. Mama had never cared for gossip. Thankfully, Mama diverted the topic of conversation onto another neighbor’s new grandchild. Ellie sipped her tea and tried to not bring any attention to herself. Shortly, her mother tactfully ended the visit, and they were on their way home. “Mrs. Brown is such a gossip, but otherwise she is a sweet lady.” Mama turned in the carriage to face Ellie. “Do you have any idea who might have visited the earl? If you know of a friend being so careless, you might warn her of the danger to her reputation.” “I will visit my friend, Violet, tomorrow. Perhaps she knows who the woman is that was seen near the Earl’s home.” “The weather is better. I suppose you are anxious to be out riding. Just be careful.” Ellie stared at her mother. She hated being less than truthful with her. Did she suspect something? One more time to see Rafe. If nothing changed, she must stop. People were curious. The risk to her reputation had just increased. **** Booth didn’t say anything when she arrived. He opened the door and nodded toward Rafe’s study. Ellie walked the short distance, knocked, and entered when she heard Rafe’s deep voice. “I don’t suppose I need to ask who has come to visit. Only one person continues to ignore my orders.”

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“That’s your problem. You are used to your family, and Booth, jumping to do what you say in that harsh, demanding tone. I’m not afraid of you.” Her heart beat double-time. Liar, liar. Rafe stood and moved carefully toward her. His prowling steps reminded her of how a tiger might stalk his prey. Part fear and part fascination held her in place. “Maybe you should be.” “Don’t be ridiculous.” Her nerves made her snap. “I’ll have to show you, in some way, the repercussions that might occur when a proper young lady doesn’t behave as expected by society. There is one thing I’m sure I can still do.” He moved quicker than she expected and picked her up in his arms. He backed up until his legs hit a chair, and then he sat with her on his lap. “You’ve been asking for this. I can’t stop myself any longer.” He tipped her face up. She saw the struggle in his expression. He held himself rigid. She knew she’d never get this close to him again. Heart beating rapidly in her chest, she made the final move. Ellie leaned forward and brushed her lips across his hard jaw. The air in the room sizzled around them. Ignoring the deadly quiet and encouraged that he hadn’t pushed her off his lap, she kissed his cheek and along his temple, and when his eyes closed, she lightly kissed each eyelid. His masculine scent filled her nostrils, and his slight stubble rasped her skin. A shiver swept down her body. A deep yearning for this man increased her determination. She refused to give up. His body went as rigid as a statue when her tongue traced the outline of his lips, then she felt his slight shudder. His hand tightened in her hair, and his lips covered hers. She gasped. Holding her tight in his arms, Rafe swept his tongue into her mouth, insatiably tasting every spot. Heat sparkled along her nerves. Tentatively, her tongue wrapped around his. He tasted of spice and the woodsy scent of his wine. His mouth softened as one hand slid down to settle over her breast.

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She jerked against him, her heart in her throat. “You like that? Good.” His lips followed his hand, nibbling at her ear, her throat, and kissing the curve between shoulder and neck where her pulse pounded. In her lower abdomen, a deep craving swept through her. At first, she didn’t realize he’d opened the top of her gown until his warm hand cupped her breast and his finger circled her peak. Feverish desire seared into her. She moaned and held tightly to him. Slowly, he lowered his head. His mouth suckled on one taut nipple. Hot desire swept through her. An ache and dampness in her lower region increased her longing for him. She hungered for something to quench the inflamed torment. She slipped her fingers through his thick, shiny, black hair and pulled him closer. He chuckled. “No,” she whispered when he raised his mouth. Then she realized he only moved across to her other side. One hand cuddled her right breast while his mouth suckled the left. She was going to explode, and yet she wanted more. She moved restlessly on his lap. Her back arched to give him better access. He placed one hand under her skirt to caress her leg. His fingers trailed upward to the juncture of her thighs. He slid one finger across the soft hair and barely into her opening. The intrusion caused an unpleasant fullness. Briefly, she moved away. He paused. Then his thumb began to rub the nub at the top of her lower lips in slow, circular movements. Fire raced through her. She moaned and wriggled against his hand. “Don’t stop,” she begged. He raised his head and found her mouth as he continued to touch her below. His finger again slipped into her opening, farther inside her tight sheath. The pressure startled her, but then unbelievable pleasure raced through her as he moved his finger in and out. Each time he went in a little deeper, and then he added a second finger.

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A ripple began to form inside her. The sensation swelled like a wave beginning to crest. A lightning bolt of pleasure sparked up her spine. He swallowed her scream with his hard kiss. Heart tripping, she held on to him as heat and pleasure flooded her body, making her legs weak. She fell limply against him. “What just happened?” she asked breathlessly. He leaned back and brushed damp hair off her forehead. His fingers traced the curve of her eyebrows, over the softness of her cheek, and around the edge of her lips. “I’m an ass,” he said softly. “Nothing should have happened between us.” Ellie’s face heated at his words. He straightened her skirt, buttoned her blouse, and stood her up. “There is a chair around here. Sit in it,” he said. “I’m sorry I am unable to pull one up for you.” She moved the chair close to him and sat. “I’m right in front of you.” He leaned back and appeared to study her. “Can you see at all?” she asked. “Shadows, a small amount of light, no color, no detail. Not enough to count.” He shrugged. “Pour me a drink, would you, please?” Ellie saw the decanter and glass on a mahogany table by the wall. She walked across the room and with trembling hands poured the wine into a crystal glass. A drop of the red wine spilled on the white doily. Taking a deep breath, she tried to calm herself before rejoining him across the room. “Here.” Her voice cut through the silence. She handed him the drink. “Is this how you handle problems?” “You’re a brave little thing. You throw yourself right in where others fear to go. But I have a few questions for you. You must be around twenty?”

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She nodded her head before realizing her mistake. “Yes, I’m twenty exactly.” “And you’ve had how many seasons in town?” She laughed halfheartedly. “I suppose you think I’m throwing myself at you because I’m an old maid. This next season will be my third.” “And you’ve had no offers of marriage?” She heard surprise in his voice. How would he react if he knew she’d waited for his return? That he was the only man she desired for a husband? “Three,” she said. “Three offers?” He raised his brow. In spite of everything, a giggle escaped her. “You don’t have to sound surprised. I may not be a beauty like my two older sisters, but I’m not ugly.” “How is your sister, Claudia?” Mentioning Claudia after what had just happened made her chest ache and her throat tighten. But then this hadn’t meant anything to him. He’d experienced much more with many beautiful women. She was sure. She’d seen how they threw themselves in his path. “Claudia is fine. She married Viscount Clark. I believe he’s a friend of yours.” “Old Andy married? I hadn’t heard. But back to you, none of the three offers were agreeable?” “They were all most agreeable gentlemen and, as my parents said, very eligible and appropriate for my consideration.” “You did not agree, apparently.” “I did not love them.” As soon as the word slipped out, she knew she’d said too much. He laughed harshly. “Love is an overrated emotion. Most women realize that. You didn’t stop me today. In fact, you incited the incident.” He cocked his head. “I hope there are no expectations that what we just did has anything to do with love.” He frowned.

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“Of course not. I just want to join in the conversation. My married sisters and friends giggle and whisper and I am left out.” “You still can’t say anything without ruining your reputation,” he snapped. Enough was enough. But unfortunately he was right. The folly of her actions hit square in her chest. She shouldn’t be here falling for him more and more each and every minute. “Fine then, good-bye.” She pushed her chair back, and holding her posture stiffly, she walked to the door. Tears pooled in her eyes as she snapped the door shut behind her. What had she expected? That after one touch of her lips he’d fall into her arms? She’d been a fool. Booth was not in sight, thank goodness. She hurried to her horse then galloped away confused, hurt, and angry. **** Rafe held his head in his hands. Damn him. His cock still pulsed with need, wanting only her. He’d missed her all week. Hope that she’d come had warred with relief that he’d gotten his message across. The days had passed as before she’d begun to visit, only now they were worse—darker and lonelier. How had she exhausted his defenses and become important to him? He didn’t want to want her. But he did. Oh, yes, very much, and not just her body. While his desire for her still hummed through him, he also wanted the sunshine that came with her and the fragile optimism she’d stirred. He’d sworn never to believe in hopeful expectations, not ever again. Her sweet lemony fragrance still lingered in the room. She’d tasted of strawberries and cream. The memory of her luscious curves and downy skin would haunt his dreams. Thank goodness he couldn’t carry her down the corridor, up the stairs, and lay her across his bed. Pain and despair ripped across his chest.

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She’d made him feel again, taken him out of his protective cover, and he didn’t know what to do now. Damn her. **** Ellie couldn’t forget the wonderful feelings Rafe had aroused in her. She wasn’t able to blank him out of her mind and go on as if nothing had happened. As though mocking her, the last few days had been sunny. She wanted to go riding, but she knew her weakness would take her back to him. He didn’t want her and, as he said, didn’t need her. She mustn’t keep throwing herself at him. Plus, there was the ever-present danger of getting caught. Yet the temptation weighed on her every day. “Eleanor,”—her mother walked into the library where Ellie tried, in vain, to read—”the weather is beautiful. I’m surprised you’re not outside.” “I’ve been thinking about going for a ride.” “You should. With so much rain lately, you don’t want to waste the few good days.” Ellie glanced out the window. She feared the joy beginning to bubble inside her. A picnic lunch, a sunny day, and Rafe not that far away. Her worn-down resistance melted. “You’re right. It’s a perfect day, and I’m wasting it.” Ellie raced up the stairs, calling to Trudy as she went. She changed into her green riding habit then rushed to the kitchen and asked cook to help her pack a picnic lunch. After cook finished, she thanked her, took the package, grabbed a bottle of wine at the last minute, and sped to the stable. Her mare was frisky and as ready for an outing as she was. In a short time she’d arrived at Rafe’s lodge. When Booth opened the door, he frowned. “Miss Upton, he will be very angry. Please go home.”

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“No, Booth. He needs to get outside in the fresh air. Go have his horse saddled. I’ll convince him to join me for a ride.” “You are stubborn, Miss Upton.” He looked askance. Then added, “I’m afraid he’ll hurt you.” “Don’t worry about me, Booth. I know what I’m doing.” I hope. Booth shook his head but started out the door. “He’s in the dining room,” he added before he left. “The last room on the right.” “Thanks.” Ellie marched down the passageway ready to do battle, if necessary. The aroma of coffee, ham, and sweet rolls filled the air when Ellie stepped inside the room. Rafe, coffee cup in hand, turned toward the door. “Booth?” “It’s Ellie.” He slammed his cup on the table, sloshing coffee on the white tablecloth. “Didn’t you have enough of my foul humor last week?” “Apparently not.” She didn’t wait to be invited to join him. “The ham and sweet rolls smell divine.” “Help yourself. And when you finish, go home.” Ellie, ignoring his comment, walked to the sideboard and placed two sweet rolls on a plate. She’d eaten little the last few days and needed fortification to enact her plan. She sat across from him and poured a cup of coffee. “Comfortable?” “How did you know I’d sat down?” He ignored her question and asked, “Why are you here?” “Today, we’re going to start on a program to get you outside and more independent. I think it might improve your mood.” “I don’t recall agreeing to any of your plans.” “Just believe I know best.” “A baby is going to teach me. I think not.”

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“I’m not a baby. But you’re acting like one. Let me help you, please. Wouldn’t you like to go for a ride rather than sit in this house and frown all day?” **** With all his strength, Rafe pushed away the hopeful feeling her arrival brought. All week, he’d paced during the days and tossed and turned at night, recalling their last meeting. He’d both wanted her to return and dreaded the possibility. He’d thought this morning he might be over the worst of his longing, and here she was again, disrupting his life. Deliberately, he took his time answering her. After a swallow of coffee and the last bite of his roll, he wiped his mouth with his handkerchief. “I’ll walk outside with you. I’m not promising anything else.” A yearning went through him. Months had passed since he’d returned from the war. And except for their brief walk and when he’d moved here, he had stayed inside. He had nothing to lose. Otherwise, his days would continue as a repeat of yesterday and all the other days since his war injury. Rafe wished he could see her. The sound of her melodious voice echoed in his memory. His cock twitched at the thought of her warm, receptive body. His control was gone. He wanted her, badly. He was hungry, but not for food. “Are you finished?” he asked her. “Yes. I’ll take your arm, and we’ll walk out the front way.” He stood. He heard her steps as she crossed to his side. As she slid her arm around his, her fresh fragrance surrounded him. “What are you wearing today?” “I’m wearing my forest-green riding habit.” He heard the door open just as they got to it. “Booth, where have you been?” “Eh, Miss Upton requested I saddle Star, my lord.”

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“Ellie, you said a walk outside. I’m not dressed for—nor interested in—riding.” “You love to ride. I’ll go with you.” “Well, if I did try, a man, not a woman, would be my companion in case Star decided to take me for a gallop.” She pulled her arm away. He pictured her standing defiantly in front of him with her hands on her hips. “If you remember I outrode most of the boys in the area.” Her cool voice made his lips curve into a faint smile. “We were much younger.” “Are you frightened?” she taunted. “Not of anything.” He meant it. Hell, he hadn’t even cared if he died. Not until this past week when a ridiculous flicker of hope kept trying to take hold in his soul. “Then let Booth help you change into your riding clothes. Join me, please.” The challenge hung in the air. He was torn between wanting to shake her hard and the desire to kiss her breathless. Instead, he motioned to Booth and turned in the direction of his room.

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Chapter Four Star’s muscles rippled under Rafe’s thighs, and sunlight warmed his face. The sense of freedom tasted sweet. “A smile. I thought you’d forgotten how.” Her soft voice reminded him he wasn’t alone. For a second, he’d forgotten. “Where shall we ride?” she asked. “There’s a waterfall by the side of a small pond toward the southeast corner of my land. We’ll ride there. Watch for a crossroads in the path and turn left.” Ellie told him what she saw as they rode along. Her keen descriptions assured him they were headed in the right direction. How had he forgotten the simple wonder of riding? Even without his eyesight, he still easily pictured how everything looked. They took their time. He savored the smells of fresh-cut hay floating along on the breeze. Birds chirped in the nearby trees, and the creak of the saddle was like music to his ears. Ellie’s voice broke into his reverie. “I see it ahead,” she said and directed him where to turn. As they got close, he heard the fall of water splashing into the pond. His favorite place. Mist caressed his face. He pulled on the reins, and Star stopped. “Let’s dismount and stay here for a time,” Ellie said. He heard her get off her horse. If he could see, he would have helped her down. He was lucky to get himself off without looking too awkward. But he was surprised at the ease of his movements as he swung his leg over. His eyes may not work, but his body remembered what to do.

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**** The ground was marshy near the pond, and Ellie glanced around to find a dry spot for her blanket. After spreading the cover out, she removed meat, bread, and fruit from one knapsack and then a bottle of wine and two glasses from the other. Rafe stood at the edge of the water, his face tilted toward the falls. She wished she knew his thoughts. Sunlight danced over his black hair, and she admired his long, lean body. She so wanted him to love her. If sheer desire and determination were all that were needed, then he would. The first time he’d come to call on her sister, envy had lodged in her heart. She’d flushed as her heart beat fast and hard whenever he looked her way and smiled. She’d realized even then he had only seen her as the little tomboy beside her two willowy, blonde, never-a-hairout-of-place sisters. She sighed. He’d never want to marry her. He’d eventually be a duke. He needed a wife who knew how to be a proper hostess. One who understood politics. Nevertheless, she wanted him. “Why the deep sigh?” he asked. “Nothing, really,” she lied. His eyebrows rose, but he didn’t challenge her. “Come, join me.” She went to him and led him to the blanket. “Sit. I have a picnic lunch for us.” She directed his hand to the meat, bread, and fruit. “And I have an opened bottle of wine and two glasses.” She poured the white wine into the crystal stemware and put it in his hand. She toasted him. “I hope this is the first of many outings for you.” He smiled, and her heart swelled with joy. His lips touched the rim of the glass, and he took a sip. “Very good. How did you get the wine bottle open?”

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She laughed. “I talked one of the kitchen staff into helping me and made him promise not to say a word.” His laughter joined hers. She loved the sound. He seemed more open, more like the man she remembered. They nibbled on the food, drank their wine, and enjoyed the solace of the area. Only the sound of the water rushing over the cliff and spilling into the crystal clear pond below interrupted the silence. Ellie walked to the water. She bent and touched the coolness with her fingers. Giving into impulse, she began to shed her clothes. “What are you doing?” Rafe asked. “I’m going to swim. Want to join me?” Standing in her chemise, she faced him. His eyes gazed directly at her, and she felt naked until she remembered he couldn’t see. Today, it was easy to forget. His eyes were so clear, and his face relaxed. She shivered as she glided into the cold water. With strong strokes, she swam out to the center of the pond. When she was younger, she had often ridden to a hidden lake at home and swam. Her father had taught her initially, almost before she walked, but her sisters said the water was too cold and stayed at home. Over the last few years there’d been few chances to sneak away. Her mother had never approved. She’d have a case of the vapors if she saw Ellie now. Ellie glanced toward Rafe, surprised to see him removing his boots, socks, coat, and shirt. He left on his buckskins, apparently for modesty. He plunged into the water and in three smooth strokes, he came up beside her. His hands reached out to find her. **** She has soft skin like cool velvet. Rafe slid his hands from her shoulders to her breasts. His cock hardened when he heard her quick intake of breath. His fingers brushed across her nipples as he moved his body against hers.

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“You shouldn’t tempt a man with such a vision. Even a blind man has an active imagination.” Ellie put her lips almost against his. Her breath whispered across his face. “Then let’s play pretend, and I’m whatever beautiful, tantalizing woman you’ve wanted and didn’t have.” She rubbed her upper body against his and wrapped her legs around his middle. Ellie’s soft hands held his face as her light kisses sprinkled over his forehead, his cheeks, and across his lips. She licked along his jaw and nibbled his neck as his cock hardened even more. “You’re playing with fire.” He growled a warning. “I’m not playing. Show me what lovemaking entails.” “You need a husband first,” he said. “My parents have picked out suitors for me that are tiresome and stodgy. I want you to be my first lover.” Her words kicked into his gut. A pain slashed across his chest picturing her with another man. He swallowed and forced his words out. “I cannot. It just isn’t done,” he whispered. Her lips opened over his, and she slipped her tongue inside to caress his mouth. Her breasts rubbed against his bare chest. Her wet chemise was no barrier at all between them. “Damn you,” he growled. Using his memory and the sound of the falls, he took careful steps out of the water and onto the soft sand. He .carried her through the waterfall into the cave behind. Her body slid along his as her feet touched the ground. “Wait here,” he commanded. He turned and started around the edge of the falls. He moved along, feeling his way with his feet and hands. **** “Wait. I’ll go with you,” Ellie called out. “Stay there.”

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Ellie watched him for a minute before turning from the entrance and observing the space behind her. The cave was beautiful. Sunlight made a silver curtain of the water. The rock walls shone with colors of silver and shiny black. Soft sand formed the floor, and the sun coming through the falls, glanced off the silver and black and filled the area with sparkly light. Checking on Rafe again, she saw he had made his way around the pond. He bent, moved everything off the blanket, grasped the edge of the covering, and shook it out. Then, he began to cautiously return. Obviously, he knew this area well and had only needed a little encouragement to use the skills he still had. Ducking back inside, she walked to the end of the cave so he wouldn’t suspect she’d been watching him. He came around the edge of the falls and flipped the blanket in the air. It settled on the sand. “Sit.” Ellie stepped lightly to him and leaned into his body. “First, kiss me.” “Imp.” He bent his head, and his lips covered hers. His hands caressed the sides of her head while he ravished her mouth. He trembled, and power flooded through her veins. She’d dreamed of having him ache for her. Well, I am the only woman around. She blocked her cynical thoughts. This was her time, maybe the only real time. She wasn’t going to spoil it with doubts. He nibbled at the edge of her jaw and her neck before kissing the spot where her pulse hammered. She giggled at the tickly feeling and scrunched her neck. “Ah, a sensitive point,” he whispered and proceeded to tickle her with more quick kisses. Then the atmosphere changed as he swept her chemise from her body. Hot, wet kisses went over her chest until his mouth captured her breast. Her knees went weak, and he laid her on the blanket.

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Now he gave all his attention to both breasts, suckling, licking, and nibbling. Fire raced over her. She pressed him closer and moaned. His head rose, and those searing blue eyes seemed to see right into her mind. Reaching out, he found her face and softly touched her forehead with the tips of his fingers. Slowly, he explored the shape of her nose, her cheeks, along the line of her lips. Each movement made her heart quiver. She started to rise up to kiss him. “No. Let me explore with my hands since I can’t with my eyes. I want to see you with my mind’s eye, not as I remember you so long ago but as the woman you’ve become.” She caught her breath at his words and nodded. Lying still, she waited as he started again to explore her body. Brushing her hair aside, Rafe’s hands slid over her ears. His mouth tasted her and his breath caressed each lobe, sending ripples of heat along her body. Lower, she began to ache, for what she wasn’t sure. Now, his mouth tasted the side of her neck, his tongue swirling against the place where her neck met her shoulder. His hands cupped her shoulders, massaging them while he stretched his body out along her length. His lips moved across her chest. At her breasts, he stopped. His look so intent, she flushed. Again, his hands slowly cupped their fullness. He brought his head close and nuzzled each peak. He licked them and blew soft breaths across the damp, tight nipples. Ellie ached for him. Her hunger increased to a ravenous lust, and she felt wet below. A smile crossed his face as though he knew exactly what she was experiencing and he enjoyed tormenting her. He nibbled at each breast, taking his time tasting and touching each one. Almost angry now with her lustful hunger, Ellie daringly reached down inside his waistband and wrapped her hand around him. She was surprised at his silky hardness. Heat poured off of him. He jerked when she gripped him snugly, and then he calmly removed her hand as he continued his journey.

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He bent and kissed her stomach, his tongue circling her navel, before he moved on to her legs. By now every nerve in her body quivered and ached with a voracious desire. His warm, firm masculine hands skimmed magically across her skin. He massaged each curve of her feet, ankles, legs, and thighs. His lips followed his hands, tasting and nipping his way to the top. She jerked at the sudden breath on her lower lips as his hands touched her most private parts. She stiffened. “Don’t be afraid. Relax.” His voice was deep and slumberous. Then his tongue brushed across her briefly, and her body arched. His finger touched her swollen, wet lips and slowly moved to her opening as his thumb caressed her most sensitive spot, sending rippling waves of pleasure up her body. Her fingers raked through his hair. “Let me touch you,” she whispered. “Not yet. I’m not quite finished.” His mouth licked across the wetness, tasting her. Her breath wheezed out. She tried to pull away, embarrassed at his actions, but he held firm to her hips and took his time exploring all the area with his tongue and teeth. She gasped as the waves of hunger poured over her. Twisting and turning, she moved her legs further apart to give him greater access. When she thought she’d die of the overwhelming desire coursing through every pore of her body, she suddenly was swept up and found herself moaning his name. When she became aware again, she realized he’d moved to lie beside her. “You wish to do your own exploring now?” he asked, a smile on his face. Although still weak, she turned to him and tasted his salt-flavored skin. Her teeth brushed across his chest and over his nipples. He took a sharp breath. She glanced at him and smiled. She nuzzled his hairy chest as her fingers rubbed his tight nipples.

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Sliding further down, she scattered kisses over his hard, lean stomach and then helped him remove his last piece of clothing. She almost gasped when she saw the swollen evidence of his desire. Tentatively, she circled his shaft with her hand. He was hot, hard, and smooth. A tiny drop of moisture seeped from the top of his cock. On instinct, she leaned down and licked the salty drop away. She glanced at his tightly drawn face. “Does that feel good?” “Very, but we can stop now,” he ground out between clenched teeth. “Nothing irrevocable has happened.” Her throat tightened. Did he not want her? She studied the tenseness in his muscles. No. He was giving her a chance to change her mind. “I want you,” she whispered. He reached for her and pulled her alongside his hot body. Spreading her legs, he settled between them, his cock touching her most intimate area. His sightless gaze captured her attention. “You are sure? Once I start, I doubt I can stop.” “Please don’t change your mind now.” He ran his fingers over one breast while his other hand rubbed her clitoris. She moved her body against him. His tongue licked and tasted her as he slowly put one finger into her tight opening. She gasped, and he went still. “Don’t stop,” she begged and sighed when his finger began to move gently along the walls of her vagina. After a few moments, he put another finger in and stretched her opening. She moved restlessly as the pressure built. There was an uncomfortable tightness at first, but as his fingers began to go in farther, the discomfort lessened. He moved up beside her and suckled on her breast as he continued the motions below. A shocking and yet delicious pleasure began to overwhelm her. She threw back her head and moaned. “I want you inside me,” she pleaded.

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He placed his pulsing cock at her opening and surged forward. Hot, searing pain brought her out of her desire-filled haze. Tears seeped from her eyes. He’d filled her. He didn’t move. “I’m sorry.” He kissed the tears away. “It won’t hurt after the first time.” Slowly he began to move inside her. At first her body resisted, but then tingles replaced the pain, and heat and pleasure built to an increasing intensity until she couldn’t breathe. Time stood still. She gasped for air and found his rhythm, moving with him toward something she needed, wanted. Her body tightened around him. “My love, you’re so sweet.” His lips covered hers, and he plunged harder. She wrapped her legs around his middle and raised her hips even higher to meet him. Everything exploded for them both. She heard his shout as she spiraled out of control. They lay entwined, breathing hard. Finally, he moved first. “I’m too heavy for you.” “No,” she protested and put her hand on his chest. He chuckled. “Come on.” Pulling her up, he ran his hand over her mussed hair. “What time is it?” Glancing out the opening of the cave she saw the sun had lowered. “It’s probably midafternoon.” Rafe picked her up in his arms. He carried her through the falls and jumped into the cold water. She threw her arm out and hit his shoulder. “That was mean.” “You need to get cleaned up and dressed. Your family will wonder where you are. We have to go back.” Rafe’s sensible words hurt her feelings. How could he switch so fast from the ecstasy of moments ago to going home? She swam toward the opposite shore, with him following in her wake. Their coupling certainly hadn’t been his first time, and for someone with more experience, this was probably not a particularly momentous event. But to me, it meant everything.

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**** Her silence worried him more than he wanted to admit. He wished he were able to see her expressions. Damn this blindness. He swam in the direction of her strokes and followed her out of the water then realized they’d left the blanket and some of their clothes. He dove back in and swam to the falls, went into the cave to get their belongings, and carried them back, walking along the edge of the pond. He knew this area better than the inside of his home. When he was young, he had spent hours swimming and enjoying the beauty of the falls. Here he escaped the constant teaching and preparation necessary to have him ready to assume the dukedom at anytime. He’d never brought anyone with him until now. “I dried off with your shirt.” She handed him the damp garment. “This is almost dry,” he said holding her shift out. His hand brushed hers as she retrieved it. In the quiet, heat shimmered between them. It took all his determination not to take her again. His cock pulsed with desire. Forcing himself, he turned away. Dressed, they rode back to his lodge. “You’d better go home.” He raised his head toward the sun. “It’s getting late.” “I’ll come back tomorrow. We’ll go for another walk.” “Don’t. We can’t keep this up. You don’t belong to me, and with my disability I’d be a burden to a wife.” He raised his hand as though anticipating her response. “Don’t say you wouldn’t care. After a time you’d find you hated being tied to me.” “No. I love you.” The words hung in the thick air between them. “You think you do because I’m the first man you’ve been with. There is no future here.” He dismounted and turned toward the barn, letting his horse lead the way. He didn’t look back as she rode off. “Bastard,” he snarled to himself. What the hell had I been thinking?

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Chapter Five “Eleanor.” Her mother’s voice stopped Ellie as she headed out the door to the barn. “Where are you going? The seamstress will be here shortly to do the final measurements for your new gown” For a moment, Ellie couldn’t think of a response. “I, ah, was going to see Mrs. Brown. I heard she’d been sick.” Her mother narrowed her eyes suspiciously. Ellie felt the warm flush on her cheeks. “Well, I’m glad I caught you. Cook has some soup and fresh fruit that you can take to her. Tell her I’ll be over tomorrow. But first you’ll do your final fitting.” Ellie wanted to groan out loud. Now she’d be even later going to see Rafe. But Ellie could hardly tell her mother she had been on her way to see the man she loved to try to convince him that he loved her, too. “Come with me.” Her mother led Ellie to the back of the house where the seamstress waited for her. “Good morning, Lady Upton and Miss Upton.” The older woman smiled and motioned Ellie to her side. A gown of white silk with wide green strips hung over her arm. “I hope you like the material I used for your dress.” She held the fabric against Ellie. “Excellent, Mrs. Davis,” Her mother congratulated the seamstress. “This material will be most complimentary for Eleanor’s coloring. Ellie studied her appearance in the mirror. Mama and her sisters had golden hair and pale, porcelain skin. Ellie favored her maternal grandmother in both looks and temperament. Grandmamma had been

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outspoken and independent until the day she died three years ago, much to Ellie’s mother’s chagrin. The green in the material brought out the red highlights in Ellie’s brown hair and contrasted well with the creamy color of her skin. If only Rafe could see her in this gown and lose the picture of the tomboy he must carry in his head. He had treated her like a desirable woman yesterday. Sure, after you practically threw yourself into his arms. “Ellie, pay attention.” Her mother took the dress and helped her daughter put it on. Mrs. Davis bustled around her, sticking pins in various places to get the right fit. It seemed hours before Ellie was free and on her way to see Mrs. Brown. Hopefully, she’d not be in one of her talkative moods or Ellie might have to postpone her visit to see Rafe until tomorrow. **** Rafe paced across his study. At this rate, he’d wear out the carpet in a few weeks. He hated to admit he missed Ellie. It was a relief to hear Booth’s footsteps outside his door. “My lord, your brother, Ralph, has arrived.” He shielded his disappointment, cleared his throat. “Send him in, Booth.” Rafe heard long, clipped steps moving along the corridor and then into the room. “Rafe, you look uncommonly well.” He sensed Ralph moving closer and heard the click of the door as Booth left. “What brings you my way?” “Father and Mother have been concerned about you. I’m on my way home from London. I thought I’d stop for a visit. When I get home I can report your condition to them.”

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“Pour us a drink and sit.” Rafe waved his hand in the direction of the whiskey. He sat in his chair and waited until Ralph handed him a glass. “As you can see, I’m fine. What were you doing in London?” Rafe listened to the sounds of his brother leaning back in his chair and straightening his legs. Ellie was right. His hearing had become much more acute. “There were still a few balls being given. I have had my eye on one particular lady. She and her family are headed back to the country now.” “You are thinking of marriage?” “Possibly. What about you, Rafe? After all, you’re the heir.” There was a particular off tone in Ralph’s voice. Rafe didn’t respond, but tried to remember when he’d heard something similar said before. Ralph was his half brother, both having the same father. Rafe’s mother had died shortly after his birth. He’d been close to his stepmother, but he and Ralph had such different taste. “Well?” Ralph asked. “Sorry, I was thinking. No. I don’t plan on marrying. You will be my heir or your children.” A log on the fire crackled in the silence, and Rafe felt the increased heat as it flared up. “Let’s hope nothing happens to you, brother. By the way, Booth said you went riding yesterday. Isn’t that rather dangerous?” “I stayed close. This area is very familiar to me. My horse trainer, Ned, went with me.” The lie came easily. He didn’t want even Ralph to know that Ellie had been here. Ralph had a sharp tongue and liked to repeat gossip. Ellie’s reputation and Rafe’s freedom might very well be in danger if his brother found out. “I have a new foal. Ned has done his best to describe her to me. Let’s walk to the barn and I’ll show her to you. You can add your description.” Rafe took the last swallow from his glass and stood. “You may as well stay the night and leave for home in the morning.”

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“Sounds good to me.” Ralph reached out and took Rafe’s arm. “Let me help you.” Rafe yanked his arm back. “If I need help, I’ll ask.” He didn’t like being treated like an invalid. Ellie never made him feel this way. **** Ellie hid her horse behind several trees at the edge of Rafe’s property. She’d just come into sight of Rafe’s house when he and his brother came out the door and headed for the barn. Everything had conspired to go wrong today to keep her from a much needed visit with Rafe. First, Mrs. Brown talked a good hour about the local gossip, her daughter, and her new grandson. To add to her frustration, Rafe had company. The sun hung low in the sky. She’d better ride home. Tomorrow, she’d sneak out early and hope to be able to talk with Rafe. When she arrived home, both sisters and their husbands had stopped for a visit and planned to stay the night. Ellie had one cup of tea and excused herself to dress for dinner. The setting sun cast a pink glow across the sky. Ellie stood at her window and imagined she saw the roof top of Rafe’s home in the distance. “Miss Ellie, this water is getting cold. You’d better hurry and change or you’ll be late downstairs,” Trudy warned her. She’d started to turn when she caught a glimpse of something. She looked back. Was that smoke? Without a word, she ran downstairs and out the back door. She threw herself onto the bare back of her mare and left the stable boy staring after her. She yelled back, “Tell my father there might be a fire at the Earl of Leyland’s hunting lodge. Don’t say I told you.” Wind whistled in the air. It had to be her imagination, but she couldn’t rest tonight without checking. She smelled the smoke before she got to Rafe’s.

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Jumping off her horse, she flew to the stables and unfastened the door, letting out the horses. Rafe’s horse trainer had gone home for the night and no one was about. “Booth,” Ellie shouted and ran down the long path to the front door. “What is it?” Booth asked before he saw the smoke. “Tell Rafe there’s a fire in the barn.” Booth stepped outside. “He’s in the barn. He and his brother.” “What?” Ellie whirled around. “Come help me.” Flames were licking their way up the sides of the building. “You can’t go in there,” Booth yelled. Ellie ignored him and bent low as she entered the smoke-filled area. She couldn’t see. Feeling with her hands, she stumbled over a body. Rafe. Wood crackled around her, and several beams fell not two feet away. She tried to pull him, and then Booth was there, and with an immense effort, they dragged him to the doorway. The roof collapsed right after they crawled outside. Several pieces of wood flew through the air. One hit Ellie in the shoulder, and another smacked Rafe across the head. “Did it kill him, Booth?” “I don’t know, but you have to get away from here, Miss Upton. I hear horses. Whoever it is must not see you.” She nodded and hurried to her horse, then headed in the opposite direction away from the riders. Glancing back, she saw men rushing across the yard to pull Rafe farther from the fire. Others began to make a line with buckets to try and save what was left of the building. Seeing help had arrived, she turned her horse homeward. Wearily, Ellie slipped inside the house and ran up to her room. She’d ridden as fast as she could, but still her mother might have discovered her missing. Trudy didn’t ask any questions. She helped Ellie undress and spoke in low tones.

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“The men heard the alarm and went to the Earl’s home. Your mother and sisters have been so upset they didn’t ask where you were. They were concerned about the fire spreading, but they thought since it has been such a wet summer it was unlikely. I assured your mother that you were fine, and that I’d just washed your hair and you were drying it. We’d better hurry, though, or she might come to check on you.” Ellie nodded. “Help me get this smoky smell off my skin and hair. I’ll use my new scented red rose soap that I received for my birthday and put a drop of rose oil on my hair.” Ellie sank into the tub and began to scrub her skin as Trudy helped clean her hair. “I appreciate your covering for me, Trudy.” Her shoulder began to ache, and she tried to see if there was any damage. “You are going to have a bruise,” Trudy warned her. “Then get out one of my gowns with long sleeves.” “That might work for tonight, but I doubt that swelling and bruise will go away any time soon,” Trudy said. Weariness swamped her. “I’ll have to think of an excuse about how I hurt myself. At least hiding it tonight will give me some time.” **** They waited for the men and ate late. In their concern over the fire neither her mother nor sisters questioned her late appearance. When her father and brothers-in-law returned they talked of the fire and of how brave Booth had been to save Rafe. “The barn is completely gone, but the horses all got out. I guess Booth released them when he went inside for the earl,” her father said. “I don’t understand how Billy became aware of the fire while he worked in the barn. Nevertheless, I’m glad he did.” “Maybe he stepped outside and saw the smoke,” Ellie said. She regretted her statement when her father gave her a studied glance. She

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swallowed. “I mean the sunset was so red that I thought for a moment I saw smoke from my bedroom.” Her two brothers-in-law snorted at that idea, and the conversation continued between the men. Ellie wished she’d kept quiet. Her mother glanced at her several times during the meal. “Booth said the earl’s brother had been visiting. Guess he left before the fire,” Andy, Claudia’s husband, remarked. “Strange. Booth said he’d planned to stay the night. Booth didn’t realize Rafe was in the barn by himself,” her father added. “Is Lord Leyland all right?” Ellie couldn’t stop from asking. Now both her parents looked her way. “The doctor was with him when we left. He got hit in the head by some flying wood, but he was coming around when the men carried him inside.” The ache in Ellie’s chest eased at her father’s words. “A messenger rode to the duke’s estate to tell him what happened to his son. He’ll probably be there by tomorrow.” Her father looked at Ellie again. “You look pale. Are you all right?” he asked. “It’s just the worry. Fire is frightening and it could happen anywhere.” Ellie forced a smile and turned her attention to her uneaten food. Where was Ralph? She’d seen him enter the barn with Rafe. Something wasn’t right. But if she asked anymore questions, she’d be in trouble. She had get to Rafe and see for herself that he was not seriously hurt. Something didn’t feel right. How did the fire start, as an accident or started by someone on purpose? The only person in the barn besides Rafe was his brother, and he magically disappeared. Ellie was relieved when her parents and the rest of the family retired shortly after the meal. Her body ached, and her mind raced with questions that had no answers. She’d just climbed into bed when her mother came into her room. She sat beside Ellie and brushed her hand over her hair. “You do so remind me of my mother. Those intelligent green eyes and

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inquisitive nature.” Her fingers brushed underneath Ellie’s eyes. “You have dark circles. We’ll need to use cucumber slices tomorrow.” Ellie lay quietly and watched as her mother walked to the window facing Rafe’s home. “I can see how you might see smoke from your window. I doubt Billy had that ability from our barn.” She turned and faced her daughter. “I hope you haven’t done anything to bring disgrace on our name, daughter. There were times the ton regarded my mother as not quite proper. I lived in fear she would stop me from making a good marriage. Perhaps if she’d been different, I’d have married an earl or marquis.” Lady Upton came back to Ellie’s bedside. “Your father is a good man, but I always wanted my daughters to do better. Claudia married a viscount and Sophia a marquis. You have turned down several fine prospects. You need to make a decision about your future. Lord Marshall and Turner will be at the party we’re planning. Your father and I hope you will find one of them a favorable choice.” She bent down and brushed her cool lips over Ellie’s cheek and then gracefully walked out of the room. Tears flowed down Ellie’s face. Her dream gone, she had to face reality. She had no more time to convince Rafe to marry her. She must choose one of these men to marry. Yet, her heart had belonged to someone else since she was sixteen. Ellie had made her choice a long time ago. She just didn’t expect to be able to keep it.

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Chapter Six Cannons boomed in the distance, and the smell of firepower filled his nostrils. Rafe tried to step carefully around the bodies of comrades and enemies strewn throughout the battlefield. This had to be hell on earth. The smell of death seeped up from the ground. His eyes stung from the thick, acrid clouds of smoke as the boom of the distant cannon vibrated through his body. The battle was over except for a few men fighting on that distant hill. Had they won? With all the dead, how could anyone claim a victory? Through the smoke, he saw the outline of a man, vaguely familiar, moving toward him. A sharp blast flashed before his eyes. He felt the white-hot pain of the bullet as it creased his scalp, and he fell among the other bodies in the muddy field. Rafe’s head pounded. The nightmare had returned, only this time he had seen his attacker’s face. Rafe heard voices in the distance. His father must be here. Crooking one eye open, he saw the figures of two men whispering in the doorway to his bedroom. How did he get to bed? He vaguely remembered Ralph visiting. Wait. He opened his eyes again. The darkness had lightened. He saw the outline of objects and watched as the two men stepped into his room. He sat up abruptly and grabbed his head when the pain jabbed between his eyes. The doctor rushed to his side. “Your head hurts?” “Like demons beating the inside of it with sticks.” “Lay back and let me examine you,” the doctor ordered.

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“What happened? Why are you here?” “Son.” Rafe heard his father’s voice. “There was a fire in your barn last night.” “The horses?” “All safe, but you inhaled smoke and got hit in the head with a piece of flying wood.” The doctor’s hands probed gently along the side and back of Rafe’s head. When he opened his eyes, the doctor’s face suddenly came into view. Rafe jerked. “What is it? “I can see you. You’re fuzzy, but I see your face.” “It’s possible the recent blow helped you regain your sight. Possible, but not likely,” the doctor concluded. “I don’t care how it happened,” his father said. “I’m just glad it did. This is wonderful.” “Temper your excitement,” the physician warned. “This might only be transitory.” Rafe ignored the doctor’s remarks. “Father, I must talk with you privately.” “Of course. Please excuse us.” Rafe heard the haughtiness in his father’s voice and smiled. The doctor nodded and scurried out of the room. His father pulled up a chair by the bedside. How did Rafe tell him what he suspected? Ralph was his father’s son, too. **** The days went by slowly after the excitement of the fire. Ellie helped her mother prepare for the few overnight guests and the neighbors who planned to attend the dinner and country ball.

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“Ellie, go outside for awhile,” her mother said. “The first of our guests won’t begin arriving until afternoon. You look peaked and all this help without complaining is getting on my nerves.” Ellie glanced across at her smiling mother and then at the open window. Outside the sun shined. Restlessness filled her, but the only place she wanted to go, she had to avoid. Her father had said Rafe’s parents had arrived and planned to stay with him until he fully recovered. She put down her feather mop and walked toward the door. The fresh air beckoned her outside. She’d visit her mare. Nothing else, she promised herself. Father and several other men arrived home as she entered the shadowed barn. They didn’t see her. “The barn is well on its way to being finished. Having extra workers hired from the village has helped get the job done in record time,” her father said. “The duke is certainly happy about his son’s recovery. Can’t blame him. No one wants their heir to be blind,” Mr. Brown, the short, stout husband of Mrs. Brown, remarked. “It is nothing short of a miracle,” Ellie’s father agreed. “Strange, though, that the half brother hasn’t been seen, and now the news is he’s headed for the continent.” The tall man standing by her father shook his head. “I asked the duke about it, but he raised his eyebrows in that way he has when you know you’ve stepped over the line. He obviously doesn’t want to discuss anything regarding his second son. Seems suspicious, but I’m not going to start any rumors. Don’t want to make the duke angry. Rather not have him as an enemy.” “Some matters are best left between families,” Ellie’s father stated bluntly. Ellie tiptoed back out of the barn. Rafe had regained his sight! Her heart trembled with despair. Every mother with a beautiful daughter

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would be after him for a son-in-law. Her chances just went from a little hopeful to no hope at all. She didn’t want to witness the disappointment in his eyes when he saw she was not beautiful. Maybe she wouldn’t have to see him. Interesting was how she’d heard one of her suitors describe her appearance. Only in Rafe’s imagination could she be more. Even then, he’d probably remembered her as the rather plump, plain, darkhaired sister. Thank goodness he’d not be able to come to the ball. If they did meet again, she’d be engaged to a proper gentleman, putting all her childhood dreams out of reach. **** The weather was perfect for the Saturday gathering. A cool breeze came through the open french windows as the small country quartet tuned their instruments. Ellie hurried upstairs after dinner to check her appearance and collect herself. She stood at the window imagining what might be happening at Rafe’s hunting lodge. As far as she knew, his parents were still in residence. She hadn’t overheard any further conversations regarding Rafe and had decided she’d best not ask questions. Her mother stepped into Ellie’s room. “Ellie, what are you doing upstairs? The musicians are ready to start playing. Lord Marshall asked me about you. I assured him you would be right down.” “I will be, Mama.” “Whatever is the matter? You haven’t been yourself these past few weeks.” “Deciding on the man I’m to spend the rest of my life with is a very serious matter, Mama. I have been pondering my future.” “Good. It’s time you married. Although, you’ve shown no particular preference for any of the young men that have been interested in you in the past. Both your sisters have made

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advantageous marriages. As I told you the other day, I expect no less from you.” Ellie gathered her silk shawl tight around her shoulders. “I’m ready. Let’s go find me a proper husband.” If her mother noticed the cynical tone in her daughter’s voice, she ignored it. Feet dragging, Ellie followed her mother downstairs. Lord Harvey Marshall stood at the bottom, a smile on his round face. He was a cheerful sort, liked by his male friends and viewed as a nice man by the ladies. His brown hair had begun to thin on top, and Ellie noted the beginning of a paunch. He’d make her a dependable husband. “May I have this dance, Miss Upton?” Lord Marshall bowed. She curtsied, took his arm, and they entered the crowded ballroom that had been decorated with fragrant flowers and numerous candles. Couples had begun to arrange themselves in sets around the dance floor. Ellie smiled at familiar faces and took her place across from Lord Marshall. Lord Turner nodded to her from farther down the row. This promised to be a trying night. Pasting a smile on her face, she stepped forward to the music. **** “Son, I really do not believe you are recovered enough to go to a country ball,” the duke reiterated for the fourth or fifth time. “Your neighbors will certainly understand your not attending.” “I’m fine, father. I hope you and Mother will come with me. I overheard Baron Upton inviting you the other day.” “Why is this so important?” “This is my first outing after regaining my sight. I can face all the curious at one time and get it over with.” And see Ellie. She hadn’t been able to visit, not with his parents in residence. He thought about her every day. The feel and taste of her haunted him.

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Were there any consequences to their actions? He needed—no, he wanted—to know. His eyesight continued to improve and was now as good as ever. He’d hoped she would send him a message, but knew that wasn’t possible, either. Tonight, he intended to see her and talk with her. “Booth, you make a fine valet,” Rafe said as he studied himself in the mirror. The last week he’d spent much time outdoors, and his paleness had been replaced by tanned skin which the whiteness of his cravat intensified. His coat and trousers were a hunter’s green and his vest white with gold thread. Tonight, he appeared every inch the duke’s heir. “If you insist on going, then your mother and I will accompany you. She thought I’d not be able to dissuade you. I’m sure she’s almost ready. Let’s go downstairs and have a glass of brandy while we wait.” “We’ve missed dinner,” Rafe said as they stood in his study. “If we don’t hurry we’ll miss a good part of the dance also.” “I shan’t keep you waiting.” His stepmother smiled from the doorway. “I’m ready.” **** Ellie hid behind a large fern and fanned herself. Lord Marshall and Turner had kept her dancing every set. Lord Turner had gone to get her some lemonade, and she took the opportunity to run away. Both men had suggested a walk outside, but she’d delayed the outing since she hadn’t decided which man’s offer to accept. Lord Turner, a marquis, had been married once for a short time and lost his wife during childbirth. He was a quiet, plain, unassuming man, but noted as being intelligent and quite involved in political affairs.

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Lord Marshall had never been married. He was much more social and an avid hunter. To Ellie there was not much to differentiate between the two men. Lord Marshall’s estate was closer to her parents’, and he and her father had many common interests. She shrank further into the corner as she spotted Lord Turner looking for her. This was silly. Ellie started to move out from behind the fern when the crowd went quiet and everyone’s gaze went toward the entrance. Ellie’s heart skipped a beat at the sight of the tall, raven-haired man standing beside her parents and his. Rafe. His eyes roamed around the crowd, and Ellie hid again. Her hands went clammy and her stomach queasy at the thought of Rafe seeing her. Her new gown and hairdo had her looking her best, but she did not compare to the golden-haired, rosy-cheeked beauties gathered in this room. Sliding quietly toward the french windows, she slipped out into the cool air and hurried into the darkness. The damp ground wet her slippers. She pulled her shawl close against the chilly night. All of her was cold, except her face where she was sure her cheeks glowed red with embarrassment. How could she face him after what they’d experienced together? “Ellie.” She heard his voice, and her heart sank. Spinning around she confronted him. “How did you find me?” “Why were you running away?” “I asked first,” she said and tilted her chin. His laughter sounded loud in the quiet. “Always ready to defend. Your lovely gown caught my eye just as you flew out the door.” “I did not fly. I walked calmly outside. It is much cooler out here. The ballroom had become quite stuffy.” “At just the moment I arrived?” “You are late.” “Fashionably,” he quipped and started to advance toward her.

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Stepping backward, her foot sank into a small hole, and she lost her balance. His quick hands caught her and pulled her body against his. Placing her hands on his chest, she pushed. “Let me go.” “You were pleading the opposite only a week or so ago.” “I did not plead, and it’s very ungentlemanly of you to say such a thing.” “I warned you when you came to my residence that there might be consequences. I’m not a gentleman all the time.” She stared into his dark eyes. They seemed to capture the light from the stars. “It’s true you got back your sight?” “As good as new. Come inside where I can see you better.” “You’ve seen me many times before.” “When you were a young girl, but not as the woman who came to me and pushed herself into my life.” Heat flushed Ellie’s cheeks. “You’re embarrassing me. Go away. No one knows about us and there are no consequences. You are free to take up your life as if I’d never visited you.” “But I am responsible for what happened between us. It is up to me to rectify my mistakes.” Her heart sank at his words. She was a mistake? Well, she refused to have a man marry her because he felt he had a responsibility to her. She swallowed around the tightness in her throat. “You do not have to worry. Lord Marshall has asked to court me and my father has agreed. He will make me a very proper husband. You can forget all about the silly girl who invaded your life. Pretend it never occurred.” “You are going to marry me,” Rafe said. “Why? Guilt is not a good enough reason to wed.” Ellie walked around him to go back inside. “Wait.” He reached out and grabbed hold of her shoulder. She flinched. Her bruise hadn’t gone away. She’d covered it with her shawl, but the soreness and discoloration still remained.

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Rafe glanced at her, puzzled, then stepped up and pulled her shawl from her shoulders. “Booth told me you helped get me out of the fire. He did not mention your injury.” “It is nothing.” Ellie pulled her wrap back around her. “Saving my life is nothing? My parents would not agree.” “No one knows or needs to. As I said you are free to pick up your life just as it was before you were injured.” “Come with me.” He held out his arm. “No. You go inside first. I don’t want anyone to see us returning together.” Rafe clasped his hands around her cheeks and tilted her face toward his. “You will marry me,” he repeated then bent to scatter light kisses across her forehead, cheeks, chin, and mouth. Ellie couldn’t stop the sigh from escaping between her lips. Rafe pulled her body tight against his. She felt the evidence of his desire against her stomach. Sadness overwhelmed her. That didn’t mean he loved her. He’d marry her out of obligation, and then she’d have to watch as he admired the beauties of the ton and began to regret his impulsive decision. “You are not obligated to marry me.” She said the words to relieve him of any lingering guilt, but her heart ached. “And how will you explain to your future husband that you are not a virgin.” “He will never know.” Rafe’s harsh laugh echoed in the still night air. Ellie glanced nervously at the french windows, certain people would look out and find them together. “Be quiet,” she whispered. “Come inside. I need to talk with your father.” “No.” “Shall I tell him of your visits to see me or just ask for your hand?”

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“Neither.” Ellie stomped away and went through the windows into the candlelit room. She swung around to face him when he followed behind her. “Look at me. I am not what you want for your wife. I hate social obligations and I’m always getting into some faux pas. Think about what you are doing.” **** Rafe studied her from her shiny, brown hair to her emerald eyes, sparking now with anger and a hint of hurt seen when he looked deeply into them. His gaze moved down to admire her soft, wellrounded figure. Her green and white gown emphasized her golden skin and lush curves. The young girl had grown into a beauty and didn’t know it. Some might say she didn’t have the polished beauty of the golden ideal. But she was his gypsy, and he’d not let anyone else have her, whatever it took. He clasped her hand to lead her across the room to where her parents stood. “Lord Upton, I’d like to talk with you regarding Miss Upton.” Her parents glanced from him to their daughter. He swallowed the smile when he saw Ellie’s expression. “Father, I’d prefer you speak with Lord Marshall first. I’ve tried to explain to Lord Leyland that I am all but engaged to Harvey, but he insists on meeting with you anyway.” “And Lord Marshall is your choice for a husband, daughter?” Her father eyed her speculatively. **** Ellie swallowed around the lump in her throat. Rafe did not love her. His upbringing made him feel obligated to her. She could not bear being his wife without his love.

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“Yes, Father. Harvey is my choice.” Her mother glanced from Ellie to Rafe before turning to her husband. “I have a suggestion. Since Lord Leyland has not had a chance to court our daughter, give both men the next few weeks to convince Eleanor of their sincerity.” “An excellent suggestion, wife. I invite you, Lord Leyland, and Lord Marshall to meet with me in a fortnight and present your case. Eleanor will receive you both until that time.” Ellie’s heart missed a beat when she looked into Rafe’s deep, blue eyes that shone with laughter and mischief. “I will come tomorrow morning and take you for a ride and picnic.” He looked at the Baron. “With your permission, Lord Upton.” “Fine.” “This does not make a difference. I shall still choose Harvey,” Ellie whispered at Rafe. “May the best man win.” Rafe swept her a deep bow and left the room.

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Chapter Seven “Eleanor,” her mother called to Ellie as she started up the stairs to her room. “Join me for tea.” It was not an invitation but a command. Her mother appeared worried. Ellie followed her into the small sitting room. Outside the light had dimmed and cast shadows across the room. She shivered. “Sit,” her mother said. She handed her a cup of tea. “Your father just came back from the village. He heard sad news.” “What?” Ellie leaned forward in her seat. Please don’t let it be anything about Rafe. He had insisted on visiting the next day after the dance, but she’d not heard from him then or since. Lord Marshall had been here every day. “Lord Leyland’s father died early yesterday morning.” “But, he was at the dance just the night before and seemed fine,” Ellie protested. “Apparently he fell ill that night. The doctor saw him. He seemed better then suddenly died a few hours later. The man who talked with your father said they suspect it was his heart.” Ellie put down her cup and rose. “Where are you going?” “I have to see Rafe.” “They’ve gone. Shortly after the duke’s death they took his body and went to the ducal estate. Your father will go to the services. We will visit later at a more appropriate time.” Her mother reached out and took Ellie’s hand. “I know you lied the other night. You care for him, but things may change. He is a duke now and must think about making a more advantageous match than to a mere baron’s daughter.”

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“You are probably right, Mama. It was a foolish dream anyway. Lord Marshall will be an honorable and pleasant husband.” Her mother chuckled softly. “What a damning statement. There is no need to make any quick decisions. We will wait until after we make a condolence call. If the new duke has decided to look at others for a prospective wife and you don’t prefer Lord Marshall, we will wait through another season for your decision. Your father and I do want you to be as happy as your sisters.” Ellie excused herself and went upstairs. She stood at her window and stared in the direction of Rafe’s hunting lodge. He’d gone without even a note. Of course he must be very upset about his father. She was being selfish to expect him to write. The duchess must be distraught. Mama was right. Rafe had different expectations put on him now. He’d merge his title and estate with a family that had comparable money and prestige. Everyone would expect him to do so. Just when she’d hoped he did care and they might be happy together, fate stepped in and changed it all. Overwhelming sadness swept over her. She paced across her room. She had to get out of here. On impulse, she decided to go riding. After Trudy helped her change into her old riding habit, she hurried to the stables. Fresh air blew across her face as she raced her horse over the fields. She didn’t think about where she was headed until she saw Rafe’s home come into view. She slowed. Already the place had that empty look. No smoke curled out of the chimney, and all the window drapes were closed. A hawk flew across the clear blue sky and dove suddenly to attack its prey. She turned away and directed her horse toward the spot where they had picnicked. Nothing had changed. The falls splashed into the small pond, and squirrels ran up the trees at her approach. She stopped, swung off her horse, and tied the reins to a bush. She pulled off her boots and walked around the marshy edge and under the falls. This was her magical place. Closing her eyes, she breathed in. She’d

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swear she smelled Rafe’s cologne, felt his warm touch. Tears seeped around her closed eyelids. Anguish tightened her throat. Enough. She opened her eyes and straightened her spine. Mama might be wrong. She had no intention of giving up, not yet. As her mother had said, she’d know more after their visit. Determined to push away her melancholy mood, she went back around the pond, put on her boots, and swung up onto her mare. Spurring the horse forward, she rode as fast as possible across the open areas between Rafe’s and her home. The wind dried her tears, and her spirits and determination rose. She’d do whatever it took to win Rafe’s love. She laughed at herself. Short of kidnapping him. She chuckled. And that might not be a bad idea. **** A month went by before Mama finally decided they might visit the duchess and Rafe. Ellie had been instructed to wear dark colors as appropriate to the solemn occasion. Ellie glared at her reflection in the mirror. She’d dressed in her long-sleeved blue gown. Her hair and skin looked dull. “Are you ready?” Her mother stood in the doorway. “We’ll leave early. It is a good three hours’ drive and we want time to visit before we turn around and head back home.” “I hate this dress.” “You look lovely. Come along.” Ellie followed her mother to the carriage and settled in for the long ride. How would Rafe receive her? The same question had gone round and round in her head last night, keeping her awake. She’d tried very hard to keep her spirits up these past weeks, but now all her fears swamped her. Her whole life depended on one man’s reaction when he saw her. She’d tried to convince herself that it didn’t matter. If he chose another, she’d go to London for the season

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and find a husband. All the talking to herself had not seemed to help when faced with her imminent arrival at Rafe’s home. They both sighted the manor house at the same time. “His home is beautiful,” Ellie said. “Large and imposing as expected of a duke.” Her mother studied Ellie. “You must not let your feelings show. If he has changed his mind and is not interested, keep your chin up and smile. There’ll be time to cry afterwards, but you’ll still have your pride.” Just her words made Ellie tear up. She blinked her eyes quickly. “I understand, Mama. You’re right.” “I’m not worried for myself,” her mother said. She patted Ellie’s hand. “I’m concerned for you.” Ellie nodded. She couldn’t speak through the tightness in her throat. The carriage moved along the curved drive and stopped in front of the large manor house. Lady Upton had sent a letter. They were expected. The front door opened, and a footman came down the steps. He opened the carriage door. “Welcome to Leyland Hall,” he said as he assisted them out and down the steps to the ground. Her mother took Ellie’s arm as they ascended the five steps to the front door. A tall, thin butler motioned for them to enter the foyer. “I will let the duchess know of your arrival.” He turned on his heel and strode down a long passageway to the right. Ellie studied the magnificent pictures hanging on the walls and the soaring ceiling above them. At the top, windows let in the sunshine. By a far wall, an armor suit stood as though ready to be donned. The light reflected off the silver plates. “Follow me.” The butler directed Ellie and her mother down the corridor. At the end, he opened a door and announced them. They entered a large drawing room. French windows covered the wall facing them and dark red drapes hung at either side. The light

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blinded Ellie temporarily. For a moment, she didn’t see the people sitting to the left of them. The duchess came across the room. “Welcome, please join us. Our friends, the Templetons, surprised us with a visit.” She took Mama’s arm. “May I introduce my dear friend, Lady Templeton, and her daughter, Lady Lavinia? This is Lady Upton and her daughter, Miss Upton.” The duchess motioned them to sit. “The duke went out with his steward early this morning. He’ll be back at anytime.” Ellie listened as her mother expressed their sympathy at the loss of the duchess’s husband. The duchess’s eyes darkened. Her hands clenched briefly, but otherwise, she maintained her proper decorum. Lady Lavinia stared across at Ellie with curiosity in her expression. Ellie smiled pleasantly, all the while noting the woman’s golden hair and expensive, ornate, dark-blue gown. On her the color brought out her sky-blue eyes and smooth, white skin. When the duchess spoke to Lady Lavinia her smile warmed. Her reception to Ellie appeared cool. But perhaps that was Ellie’s own imagination. “Mother, I’m sorry I wasn’t here to greet our guests.” Rafe strode into the room. The air sizzled with expectancy as all the women looked around to greet him. Ellie almost sighed out loud. He had a darker tan, and the breeze had ruffled his black hair. Those startling blue eyes shone with energy and light. She waited as he greeted her mother and Lady Templeton, then smiled and greeted Lavinia. Finally, he turned and came across to her. “How lovely you look. I’m so glad you and your mother had an opportunity to visit our home.” “It’s beautiful, Your Grace,” Ellie said. Rafe’s eyebrow raised on her greeting. “Sit here by me,” the duchess directed Rafe. He nodded at Ellie before sitting between his mother and Lady Lavinia. “Is everything as you remembered it?” his stepmother asked. She handed him a cup of tea.

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“Yes. Only now the colors and textures are so much more vivid. I suppose the positive side of being blind and regaining your sight is the ability to appreciate all the things you took for granted before. But, please don’t let me interrupt your conversation. I’m going to take my tea to my office.” As quickly as he’d entered, Rafe had gone. Ellie stared at his back until he disappeared out the door. The duchess smiled at Lady Lavinia. “I’m sure you two young ladies are bored conversing with us. My dear, please take Miss Upton and show her the grounds. So many of our prettiest flowers are in bloom.” Lavinia motioned for Ellie to join her. “We’ll go out the french windows,” she said. They stepped out onto a stone veranda. Winding walkways meandered through lush gardens of roses, shrubs, and ground-cover plants. At one turn in the walk, the mixture of colors reminded Ellie of a painting she’d seen on a very old tapestry. Lavinia walked in silence beside her until they were quite a distance from the house. “I noted the looks you gave the duke,” she said in a cold tone. “The duchess said you and your family were kind to Rafe when he was at his hunting lodge. I do hope you didn’t build up any expectations.” She stopped and eyed Ellie from her head to her feet then turned back to stroll along the path. “As a duke, Rafe will require a sophisticated wife. One that will bring both additional power and prestige to him and his title. A baron’s daughter would never be acceptable.” Ellie seldom held back what she wanted to say. This time was no different. “I find you the epitome of rudeness. Surely, a duke does not need that quality in a wife. But do not worry, I have no expectations about the duke or any other man. Now if you will excuse me, I prefer to walk alone.” Taking long strides, Ellie quickly distanced herself from Lavinia. Her heart hurt. To be replaced was bad enough but by such a

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snobbish, spoiled woman made it worse. Tears filled her eyes. She blinked furiously, refusing to let them fall. She’d known this might happen. In her anger, she wasn’t aware of the time or distance she’d covered. The shadows cast across the garden brought her back to the present. She turned and started back toward the house which she saw far in the distance. “Ellie.” A man’s voice came from her left. Rafe moved hurriedly to her side. “We were worried when you didn’t return with Lady Lavinia. She said you just walked off on your own.” “That’s correct. She was not pleasant company.” “I’m sorry. I’d hoped you’d enjoy the gardens.” “They are very pretty, Your Grace. Excuse me, my mother will be waiting.” She tried to hurry past him, but he caught her arm. “Ellie, I know much has changed since the last time we saw each other. Let me explain, and please call me Rafe.” “Your Grace is your proper title. You don’t need to give me any explanations. I understand a duke requires a completely different bride than an earl. I did refuse your offer. As I said before, you have no obligation to me.” This time he let her walk away. Come after me, her heart called to him. Please, don’t forget me. However, when she finally glanced back, he had walked in the opposite direction almost out of sight. Her mother frowned on her return. “We must leave. It is very late and will be dark before we arrive home.” “Stay the night with us, Lady Upton,” the duchess said. “I’ve already had a room prepared, one for you and one for your daughter.” “It is too much of an imposition.” “Not at all. You can leave early tomorrow, well rested, and the trip home will be much less stressful. I’ll send one of our grooms with a note to your husband.” “Then thank you. How can I refuse such a lovely invitation.”

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“Mary,”—the duchess motioned to one of the maids—”show the ladies to their rooms. Dinner is at eight.” Her mother took Ellie’s arm, and they followed the maid up the sweeping staircase. Ellie vacillated between pleasure and discomfort. She’d see Rafe one last time. Still, he’d probably ignore her and lavish attention on the lovely Lavinia. “Ellie, we will speak later,” Mama said as the maid went to show Ellie her room farther down the hall. “Come to my room at half past seven. We will talk.” “Yes, Mama.” The maid went down the passageway and around a corner before stopping. When she opened the door, Ellie gasped at the furnishings. A bright red and gold carpet spread across the large area. On one side stood a bed with a canopy. The bedspread and canopy top were white with red and gold threads running through the material. The window curtains matched. A slight breeze blew the drapes inward. Ellie walked to the window and looked out. Her room faced the back of the house. In the distance, she saw a large lake with white swans gliding across the water. Beyond that, a thick coppice of trees edged the meadow. “’Tis one of the most lovely rooms,” the maid said. “It is, indeed, beautiful. Thank you.” “Do you need anything right now, my lady?” “If you’d undo my gown, that’s all I’ll need until time for supper.” The maid came behind her and loosened the gown. Ellie heard the soft click of the lock as she left. A wave of tiredness swept over her. All the emotions of the day and no sleep last night had left her exhausted. She slipped out of her gown and lay across the turneddown bed. In seconds, she slept. A faint noise roused her. Shadows hid the corners of her room. The smell of cut hay blew in the open window. She caught a movement out of the corner of her eye and heard the lock click on her

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door. Sitting up, she brushed her long hair out of her face and watched as the figure walked to the nearest candle and lit it. Rafe turned and smiled. “Now you can’t run away from me before we talk.” With determination, he strode to the bed. His gorgeous blue eyes swept over her, leaving a trail of fire. Ellie glanced down. Her chemise barely covered her breasts and left her long legs bare. She started to pull the covers up. “Don’t. After all it’s not the first time I’ve seen you undressed.” His sensuous mouth curved upward. He lifted her foot, and his finger slid over her instep. He leaned down, and his breath whispered across her toes, and then he placed his mouth on the curve of her calf. “Lay back and close your eyes.” Ellie did as he said. Without sight, all her concentration went to what he was doing to her body. His hands massaged her leg, and his mouth followed with light, butterfly kisses. Her breathing quickened as his hands came closer to her most vulnerable and sensitive spot. His fingers gently moved between her lower lips, and his breath blew across the tender skin. His tongue circled her clit. Ellie bowed her body and opened her legs further to give him better access. His fingers caressed her soft skin and sent an ache deep inside her. She tossed her head back and forth on the bed. “Rafe,” she moaned his name. He moved down, and his tongue tenderly licked her opening. Embarrassed, she tried to pull away. “Stop, let me love you.” He raised his head, and his eyes blazed with desire. Slowly he moved one finger inside her while he watched her expression. She moved restlessly under his caress. “Do you want more?” “I want you inside me.” Her words came out in short breaths. “Not yet. We have plenty of time before dinner.” He gave her a wicked grin. “And I have you at my mercy. If you yell out, someone will come and discover us together.”

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“You’d have to marry me,” she warned him. “You’ve already refused my offer, as you so graciously reminded me earlier.” As he spoke, he placed another finger inside her and moved them in and out, creating a sensation of fullness and need. He bent his head and caught the tip of her breast between his teeth. Gently, he teased her tight bud and then covered her breast and suckled hard. Heart pounding, out of her mind with sensations of heat, hunger, and a deep ache inside her abdomen, she raised her body closer to him. “Damn you, take me,” she cried out. But he moved to the other breast and continued his tender assault. By now, she couldn’t stay still. In the distance, she heard his deep chuckle. Moving quickly, he slid back down her body and sucked on her clit. His other hand caressed her breast. He was all over her, his musky, male scent, the softness of his hair brushing her lower abdomen, all male taking, ravishing. Suddenly, his cock was at her opening. Without hesitation, he pushed in and pulled her legs up and over his shoulders, sending him even deeper. Furiously, he moved in and out as his mouth covered hers. A swell of sensations rose from her center and up over her chest, sending her into a timeless void. He swallowed her scream as his hot seed burst into her. Minutes later, she still trembled in his arms. He held her close as his breathing slowed. He moved to take some of his weight off her. His lips brushed across her closed eyelids, along her cheek, and whispered over her mouth. With an effort, she opened her eyes. “That was more astounding than the first time,” she said and smiled at him. “I wanted you to know what you’d miss by not marrying me.” “Your mother plans for you to marry Lavinia, and you hardly noticed me today.”

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“I know.” He rolled to her side and reached out to touch her hair. “So soft,” he said, rubbing the golden-brown strands between his fingers. “Everything about you is soft.” “Why?” she persisted. She knew from his expression he understood her question. “It is so soon after my father’s death that I preferred not to upset my stepmother. I’ve gone along with her attempts to bring Lavinia and me back together hoping she’d see it wouldn’t work, but she’s a determined woman.” “What do you mean, back together?” “I offered for Lavinia just before I went to war.” He put his finger across her lips as she started to speak. “Let me finish. When I returned, Lavinia was horrified at my blindness. I overheard her tell her mother that she would not marry a crippled man. I released her from our engagement. I have no further obligation to her.” “Except her family and your stepmother must believe you do.” He took a deep breath. “Yes, apparently they feel I should overlook her behavior. She did not mean what she said.” In his words, Ellie heard the duchess voice. “Then what was this about? A good-bye?” “No. But, I will need time to convince both families that there will be no marriage, at least not to Lavinia.” Did he play a game between them? The thought popped into Ellie’s head, shaking her confidence. No, he’d never have come to her room if he didn’t care for her, would he? You have given into him quite easily. For the first time, shame rose inside her. He turned her face toward him. “What are you thinking? Talk to me.” “Please go.” He started to protest, but she added, “Please.” “I’ll go for now, but this isn’t the end of us. I promise you.” Ellie turned to her side, away from him, desperately trying to control the hurt that swelled inside her. She heard his movements, his

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dressing, and then the squeak as a hidden panel opened and closed behind him. He’d seen she was given this room because of the hidden passageway. She’d heard older homes often had several. She’d been stupid. She’d fallen right into his arms. A sob rose up through her chest and out her mouth as tears poured over her cheeks. “Fool, fool, fool,” she mumbled and stuck her head in the pillow to drown out her despair. **** Rafe slipped back into his room without being missed. His valet would be along shortly to help him dress. A tub of hot water stood ready for his enjoyment. He threw off his clothes and sank into the steaming heat. Lying back, he let his head rest against the edge of the tub and closed his eyes. Ellie looked magnificent in the afterglow of lovemaking. His cock twitched just thinking about her. He wanted her again already. Lavinia had never aroused him the way Ellie did. His stepmother expected him to make another offer for Lavinia. It was a smart move. She’d bring even more money and prestige to the family. She’d been well groomed on being a duke’s wife, on being involved in her husband’s home and entertaining important guests. Her sophistication far exceeded Ellie’s. Inside he knew he’d never forgive Lavinia for turning her back on him when he was blind. Perhaps his stepmother might, but it was burned into his consciousness. He’d been planning to go to his hunting lodge and see Ellie when the Templetons arrived. He didn’t doubt his stepmother arranged their visit and concealed the fact from him. What a coil. How to manage to get what he wanted without offending everyone else around him? That was the question. Rafe heard the door and opened his eyes. His valet entered and went to the wardrobe to get out his evening attire.

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This promised to be an interesting evening. **** Ellie and her mother were the last to arrive downstairs. Ellie’s mother had given her a brief lecture on controlling her expressions and emotions. She’d not been pleased to have to spend the night. Lavinia, her mother, and the duchess were dressed in appropriate mourning clothes and still looked as though they wore the height of fashion. Ellie glanced down at her blue gown, and when she raised her eyes, Lavinia smiled. “I should have offered you one of my dresses. How difficult to spend the night without a change of clothes. But then my gowns would be too large at the top and too small at the waist,” Lavinia said in honeyed tones. “I’m fine thank you.” Ellie forced herself to be pleasant when she really wanted to slap her. Rafe stepped forward and handed her mother and her glasses of red wine. “You look lovely,” he said. His eyes smiled into hers, and his hand brushed across her fingers as she took the glass from him. “Rafe,” his stepmother spoke up. “Lavinia needs her glass refilled.” “I believe Booth is here to announce supper.” He motioned to the doorway. “Yes, Your Grace. Please follow me.” Booth led the group into the formal dining room. “Lavinia, sit here on Rafe’s right side. I will sit on the left with Lady Upton by me and your mother by you. Miss Upton may sit by her mother,” the duchess said before anyone had a chance to choose a place at the table. Ellie was not surprised she’d been placed as far as possible from Rafe. His stepmother made her feelings about whom she wanted him to marry very clear. Rafe frowned but didn’t speak. All his fine words

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earlier meant nothing. He’d soon find himself engaged to the very proper and eligible Lady Lavinia. Ellie forced the tasteless food down. She smiled at all the appropriate times. Her smile froze on her face. Finally, the lengthy meal ended. Rafe chose to join the ladies back in the drawing room. “Lavinia, please play for us.” The duchess turned to Ellie. “Do you play my dear?” “Simple pieces. I’m not very good. Mama had difficulty convincing me to practice. I much preferred being outside riding my horse.” She glanced at Rafe and caught the twinkle in his eye. The duchess frowned. She’d apparently noticed the interchange. “Being skilled in piano is an important ability to have. Lavinia, my dear, please entertain us.” His stepmother’s frosty tone sent a chill through Ellie. With her words, she was warning Ellie how lacking she was in the skills to be a duke’s wife. Soft music filled the room. Ellie hated to admit it, but Lavinia did play well. After listening to two songs, Ellie’s mother rose. “Thank you, Your Grace, for a most pleasant evening. We will retire. We plan to leave very early tomorrow. Good night.” She nodded to each person in the room then took Ellie’s arm. “Nod politely,” her mother whispered. When they reached Mama’s room, she directed Ellie inside. “You did very well this evening, although that smile did appear forced. I’m sure you won’t mind leaving at dawn.” “No, I’ll be ready.” Her maid waited for Ellie in her room. As soon as Ellie was dressed for bed, she left. Ellie went to the panel opening that Rafe had used earlier. She ran her fingers along the edge, searching for a way to lock the panel on this side. She’d almost given up the search when she discovered a piece of the edging moved. She twisted it to the side, effectively blocking entry.

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Rafe had his chance tonight to speak up. He’d not find her waiting hopefully for his attention. When she returned home, she’d concentrate on finding a suitor she could accept as her husband. Ignoring the wrenching pain in her chest, she climbed into bed. Not long afterwards, she heard a knock on the panel and Rafe’s voice insisting she remove the lock. Putting her hands over her ears, she ignored him. Long hours later, she still lay awake staring into the darkness.

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Chapter Eight Rafe stared out his window and watched the Upton’s carriage disappear around the curve in the drive. They’d left very early. He’d decided not to go downstairs. Until he handled the situation with the Templetons, he had nothing new to say to Ellie. He planned to talk with his stepmother this morning. He’d told her maid to ask her to meet with his as soon as possible. He was going for a short ride, and hopefully on his return, everyone would be up. He was determined to talk with all of them today. Mist still clung in the air as Rafe rode around the fields. Workers were just beginning their day. Rafe waved at several as he galloped by. His stepmother would be disappointed. She’d set her heart on seeing him wed Lavinia. In a way, she was right. Lavinia had all the criteria to be a duchess. She’d been well trained. When they’d first met, her striking beauty had aroused his interest. Before he’d joined the troops, he’d asked her to marry him. He told her that they’d marry when he returned. But her shocking reaction to his injury had destroyed any feelings he had for her. Now, having known her longer, he saw her selfish behaviors and realized what a mistake he’d have made if they had wed. He was thankful she’d ended their betrothal. Ellie glowed with goodness while Lavinia tried to hide her darker side but didn’t succeed. Rafe pulled his horse around. He wanted to get back and take care of this business so he could claim the woman he loved. “Your Grace, the duchess will see you now,” the maid said as he entered the house.

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“Thank you.” Rafe strode across the foyer and up the stairs. He hadn’t formed a speech, yet he was determined to leave no doubt in anyone’s mind that he was marrying Ellie. “Please come in, Rafe.” His stepmother waved him inside her sitting room. Dressed in somber black with her hair drawn tight into a bun, she looked old and sad. “It is rather early for you to request a visit. This must be something important you wish to discuss.” She beamed at him. “Take a seat here, right across from me. I must confess I’m sure I know the good news you bring, and I’ll be very happy to welcome Lady Lavinia into our home as your wife. She has such elegance and proper breeding, totally unlike the unsophisticated Miss Upton.” Rafe leaned forward. “I must interrupt you before more is said. I am not going to wed Lavinia.” His stepmother waved her hands. “Surely, you do not still hold her foolish words against her. She’d never dealt with illness or injury. Being young, she did not express herself in the best possible way.” The duchess took his hand and stared into his eyes. “You must forgive her.” “No, I must not. Her words are indelibly traced across my mind. I have asked Miss Eleanor Upton to marry me.” “Humph.” His stepmother let go of his hand and sat back in her chair. “I do not approve of your choice.” She gave him a stern look. “You are a duke and must think of other things besides your lust for a common woman.” Her harsh words stunned Rafe. “A common woman? Her father is a baron. She is a member of the ton.” “Still, she is not accomplished in any of the proper arts. You heard her say she’d rather go riding. Being a duchess would overwhelm her.” “Not with support and encouragement.” “I will not help her. You will have to find someone else to take on that task.” She raised her chin and stared at him defiantly.

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“In that case, I’m glad we’ve had this conversation. I’m sure my father’s sister, Aunt Martha, will agree to help Miss Upton. I’ll give orders to have the dowager house cleaned and made comfortable for you. You will move before our wedding. I’ll not have my bride made uncomfortable in her own home.” “What, you would throw me out of my home right after your father’s death? Has this woman cast a spell on you? Never did I dream you’d be capable of such unkindness.” Rafe took a deep breath. Anger and guilt warred inside of him. His stepmother’s strong floral cologne began to give him a headache. He was tired of dealing with stubborn women. “I’m sorry if I’ve hurt you.” He stood and walked toward the door. “It was not my plan, but you’ve had enough time to accept that I’d not ask Lavinia again to be my wife. You ignored me whenever I reminded you it wasn’t going to happen, thus giving me no choice but to be more direct. “I had no wish for you to move. Nevertheless, your words have convinced me that you’d make my new wife uncomfortable and unhappy, and that is not acceptable.” The duchess patted her eyes with her handkerchief. “I never believed you thought so little of me.” He opened the door and stood in the entrance. “There is no need for an immediate change of residence. You may wait until the wedding. I will have the staff move your things the week before. I’m sorry it has come to this.” “What will the Templetons think? You will have to explain to Lady Lavinia.” “I will talk with her. Good day.” Rafe nodded his head and snapped the door shut behind him. That had not gone well. He’d always cared for his stepmother and thought she cared for him as well. For a second, he had caught a look of almost dislike flash across her face, not for Ellie but for him. Father, I miss you so much.

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Rafe took the stairs two at time and headed for his office, or what used to be his father’s. He walked inside and drew in a deep breath. The smell of old books and a faint hint of his father’s musky cologne still lingered. Memories of evenings spent here reading, talking, or enjoying a smoke before dinner made his loss slam into his gut. He sank into his father’s leather chair and heard the old familiar creak. For the moment, he allowed himself to grieve for the man who’d been the most stable and dominant person in his life. His father had approved of Lavinia, but he’d understood when the betrothal ended. He’d not completely understand Rafe’s present choice. Still, he would have accepted Ellie, especially considering her courage and determination to save Rafe’s life. Taking a deep breath, Rafe decided this was the time to talk with Lavinia. Once the situation was clear to all, he’d go to Ellie. Rafe found Lavinia in the library. She sat by the window, a lovely picture of a beautiful, refined, young lady staring out the window into the rose garden. He stopped at the entrance and searched inside himself for any latent feelings. None. While just the thought of Ellie heated his body. He must have made a noise because Lavinia turned and smiled. “Rafe, I’ve been sitting here wishing you’d join me. Now I know that wishes do come true.” She stood and slowly walked toward him, never breaking contact with her eyes. When she stopped, her hand touched his vest. Rafe moved it away. Her rosy mouth pouted. “We must announce a date for our wedding soon, my love. I can’t wait to be your bride.” Again, she reached toward him. Rafe grabbed her hand and stepped back. “Wishing doesn’t make it so, my lady. We are not betrothed, nor shall we be. Your insistence in pretending to forget what happened between us will not change my mind. You may have forgotten your callous words. I, however, will never forget what you said to me.” Lavinia swirled around and walked to the sofa. “Please sit, Your Grace. Perhaps you don’t understand.”

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“I prefer to stand. Enlighten me.” “After we talked, I realized I’d made a grave mistake. My mother does not consider our betrothal broken. If you do not marry me, my father will sue you for breach of promise.” “Neither your father nor mother desire that type of publicity. Perhaps if I did not hold the title of duke, they’d consider taking such action. Common sense will prevail.” She stamped her foot. “I suppose you believe yourself in love with that common Miss Upton. I didn’t miss the glances you sent her at every opportunity.” She tramped across the room and stood right in front of him again. “You will marry me or regret it.” “Threats.” He laughed. “Explain everything to your mother. I’m leaving to visit my future wife.” With that he turned and left the room. He heard a very unladylike scream as a book bounced off the doorframe just as he went through. “Booth,” he called out. Booth poked his head around the door from the dining room. “Yes, Your Grace?” “Pack our clothes. We’re traveling to my hunting lodge.” “When will we leave, Your Grace?” “Immediately.” **** Ellie sulked around the house until the second day when her mother insisted she go out riding. “All this pacing and your sad expression have begun to make me nervous.” “Let me help you, Mama. There must be something I can do.” “Well, I’d suggest you finish your knitting, but the last time you did any work on it you ended up with more tangles than progress.” “Madam,”—the butler came to the door of the drawing room— ”Lord Turner has come to visit.”

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“Please show him in.” Her mother glanced at Ellie. “Smooth down your skirts, there is no time to make ourselves more presentable.” She’d barely finished speaking when Lord Turner came to the door. “Lady Upton and Miss Upton.” He bowed. “I do hope you’ll forgive my spur-of-the-moment visit. I was in the area to see about buying a particular horse and hoped that an unexpected visit would not be seen as too presumptive.” “Not at all, Lord Turner. Please join us. We were just going to enjoy a cup of tea.” “Thank you.” He walked across and sat on the chair closest to Ellie. “You are looking lovely, Miss Upton,” he said. “You are most gracious, my lord.” The maid rolled in the tea trolley, and Ellie rose to serve the tea. Her hands trembled slightly when she poured the tea into the dainty cups decorated with an ivy trim. She handed the first to her mother and then one to Lord Turner. Fear gripped her. She expected he’d come to propose. He’d make her a good husband, pleasant and probably undemanding, except for wanting an heir. Her mother and Lord Turner carried on a polite conversation, but Ellie didn’t listen. Her mind raced with the decision looming so close. Two reasons stood in the way of her accepting Lord Turner’s proposal—she wasn’t a virgin and she loved someone else. There was no way she could justify marrying another man with that standing between them. “Eleanor, Lord Turner asked you a question.” Ellie looked from her mother to him. “I’m sorry. Forgive me for letting my thoughts wander.” “You must understand, Lord Turner, Eleanor has been helping me in the house and hasn’t been out in days. Why don’t you two go for a ride?” She asked. “That is, my lord, if you have the time.” “I’d be honored, and certainly there is always time to escort such a lovely lady.” A pleased expression lightened his rather plain face.

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“I’m not dressed...” “Lord Turner will not mind keeping me company while you get ready. I’m sure.” “Not all, Miss Upton. Take your time.” Ellie flashed her mother a quick frown, but she smiled back and waved her on her way. Her mother instructed the downstairs maid to have Trudy attend to Ellie. No escape. She had to decide quickly how to handle this difficult situation. Trudy met her at the bedroom door and helped her change into a new golden-brown riding habit. She’d loved the outfit and saucy matching hat with two feathers that curled around her face. “If you don’t mind me saying so, my lady. You look like you’re going to be sick,” Trudy said. “Sick of my choices and what awaits me downstairs.” “Shall I tell your mother you are ill and not able to go on the ride?” “No. She’d never believe that, and sooner or later I’d still have to deal with Lord Turner. Best to do it now.” When she arrived back downstairs, she discovered Mama had already had Ellie’s mare brought around from the stable. “Take your time. I had just finished telling Eleanor she needed to go for a ride. This is so much better that she’ll have you for company, Lord Turner.” Her mother beamed at them and waved them on their way. Lord Turner put his hands together and gave Ellie a boost into the saddle. “Which way shall we ride?” he asked. Without thinking or perhaps from too much thinking, Ellie pointed toward the direction of Rafe’s hunting lodge. “We can ride around the lake and across several open areas before coming to our property line,” she said. “Good.” Lord Turner rode alongside her, studying the countryside. Neither spoke. Endless blue skies, without even a cloud in sight, and a slight breeze made the day pleasantly warm.

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Lord Turner finally broke the silence. “You are very quiet, my lady.” “Forgive me. We have few lovely clear days like this. I am enjoying being outside.” “As long as you are not regretting your mother pushing you to ride with me.” Ellie jerked her head around and stared at him. He smiled. “I am not unaware of mothers and their pressure on daughters to marry. My deceased wife and I often talked on all subjects including mothers and daughters.” Ellie slowed her horse. “I’m so sorry for your loss.” “Thank you. I’ve missed her very much these past three years, but she’d be the first to tell me to continue to live my life.” He stared off toward a hammock of trees growing beside a small creek. “Shall we ride in that direction and walk alongside the stream?” He was going to ask her. He’d surprised her when he talked about his wife and revealed the close relationship they’d had. He had depth of character and caring. She’d totally misjudged him and found she had begun to like him. Like, not love. A world of difference and yet she thought they’d be pleasantly happy if not for those two obstacles. She directed her mare toward the river, and he followed. Under a shady tree, he dismounted, tied their horses, and helped her down. “Shall we walk?” he asked. He didn’t wait for her answer but took her arm, and they strolled along the grassy edge. “You must know I’m attracted to you and have been wanting to ask you a question for some time.” “Yes, my lord, I have sensed your interest but,—” He stopped her. “Let me speak first, and then you can answer me knowing my expectations and hopes for us.” She raised her head and looked into his warm, brown eyes. “Fair enough.” “I suspect I’m not the dashing young man of your dreams. My mirror does not lie.” He smiled and patted her hand. “There is no need

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to deny my statement. I am neither sad, nor have illusions. But I do know I was a good husband and love grew between my wife and me. I liked being married and longed for children, not just an heir. So, what I have to offer is a—I hope—a pleasant life filled with good times and support for the times that are not so good. I’d be honored if you’d consider marrying me.” He stopped their progress along the creek’s edge. In the silence, the rush of water over several large rocks sounded uncommonly loud. “I don’t expect an answer today. Take your time to consider my offer.” “You are too kind, my lord.” Ellie glanced down at the ground. Now was the time to tell him. She started to open her mouth when she heard a rider. Both she and Lord Turner looked around and saw a man riding toward them. Ellie’s heart sped up. Rafe pulled up his stallion and swung down. “Miss Upton and Lord Turner,” he said and bowed. “I do hope I’m not interrupting, but I was on my way to the Upton’s when I happened to see horses and decided to check. There have been rumors of mischief in the area of late.” “How nice to see you, Your Grace. I had thought you were at your estate,” Lord Turner said. “I have been, but I enjoy spending time at my hunting lodge and needed the quiet and privacy.” “That’s understandable.” Lord Turner turned back to Ellie. “I must be on my way. Perhaps, we might ride back and I will take my leave.” “Please don’t let me rush you off, Turner. I can visit another day.” “Not at all, Your Grace. I have a good distance to make to reach home tonight.” The ride home seemed to take less time. Lord Turner told her mother good-bye. “If you and the duke will excuse me, I’d like to speak privately with Miss Upton before I leave.” Ellie took his arm. “I’ll walk you outside, my lord.”

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“Thank you.” He patted her hand as they walked through the foyer. They started down the steps to where his horse waited. “It was pleasant to see the duke, but I am sorry we were interrupted.” Lord Turner squeezed her hand then stepped away and swung up into his saddle. “You will think about my offer?” “Yes, my lord.” “Then with your permission, I will visit again in a fortnight. If you do not wish me to visit, please send me word.” “Whatever my decision, my lord, you have honored me with your proposal. You are a good man.” “A good man.” He shook his head. “I fear you have dashed my hopes,” he said, but there was a twinkle in his eye as he rode away. Ellie found her mother and Rafe talking quietly. The conversation abruptly stopped when she entered. Rafe stood. “I must return home. I’ve asked your mother’s permission to take you on a picnic tomorrow. May I come for you around one?” “I have work to do here, Your Grace. Perhaps another day.” He smiled that devilish smile that said he knew she had nothing to do, but he bowed and walked to the door. “I enjoyed our visit, Lady Upton. Miss Upton, another day will be fine.” They listened to his brisk steps across the foyer and heard him speak to the butler then the front door opened and shut. “Don’t be too foolish, my dear,” her mother said. “He is not a man to play games with, and if I’m right in my suppositions, you love him.” She rose and started out of the room. At the door, she turned. “I also fear you have gone beyond the bounds of propriety with him.” She raised her hand. “I don’t want to know. Think seriously about both these gentlemen.” Lady Upton left the room. Ellie’s surprise must have shown on her face. What had made her mother suspect? She walked out the french windows and stood watching bees buzzing around the honeysuckle vine curled around a nearby trellis. Her father’s voice carried on the breeze as he neared the house. She heard his caretaker talking to him. This had been her

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comfortable safe place, her home. Changes were coming, and she had a very important decision to make. Why had Rafe come? Did he love her, or had he come to tell her of his betrothal to the lovely Lavinia? Lord Turner had surprised her, and if not for Rafe, she’d have accepted his offer. She needed to see Rafe alone one more time. He’d angered her expecting she’d jump to go with him tomorrow. He’d hurt her when she visited him. She had felt unsupported at his home. They had many obstacles to confront before they considered marriage. Hah, he’ll never marry me, a mere baron’s daughter. He’d be a fool not to align his title with another powerful family. She’d not be the social sophisticate he needed. For his own good, even if he asked her, she had to refuse.

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Chapter Nine Rafe paced his bedroom. He’d understood Ellie’s reaction. She wasn’t certain if he’d come to court her or disappoint her, like he did at his home. He’d tried too hard to please everyone else and had hurt the one who meant the most to him. Thank goodness he’d arrived in time. He had no doubt that Turner had asked her to marry him. He’d interrupted them before she gave him an answer. Unless, she said yes when she went outside with him. Nevertheless, he intended to marry Ellie, no one else. She was his. Now all he had to do was convince her. He waited for dark and then rode back to her home. A sliver of moon lit his way to the side of the manor house. Rafe had left his horse far enough away that the stallion’s snorting wouldn’t attract any attention. He had one very big problem—he had no idea which room was Ellie’s. Hiding behind a bush, he stared into the well-lit drawing room where Lord and Lady Upton sat. He didn’t see Ellie. He moved cautiously farther along and stared up at the second floor. He’d already checked the other side, and all the upstairs rooms were dark. Faint light shone through the curtains of one room toward the back. There were no nearby trees or any way to get to the upstairs, except going inside. He tried a side door, but it was locked. He walked back to the french windows he’d passed. The handle turned. Carefully, he opened the window and stepped inside against the curtains. The smell of tobacco and old books identified the room as her father’s study. He tiptoed across the room and peeked out into a

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corridor. If he was caught, there’d be no good explanation. Ellie was worth the risk. Staying close to the wall, he walked down the corridor toward the back of the house. If he was lucky, he’d find the back stairs. Yes, there they were. Soft carpet muffled his steps. At the top, he hesitated when he heard a noise. “Good night, my lady.” A maid opened a door at the farther end of the corridor and stepped out, closing the door behind her. She turned to go to the back stairs and saw him. Rafe put his finger to his lip. Intrigued, the woman came close. “What are you doing here, Your Grace?” “I need to speak with Miss Upton.” “I’m her maid, Trudy. She has retired for the night.” “I don’t suppose you could do the same and pretend you never saw me?” “Why should I do that?” she asked him. “I’ll do nothing to hurt her. I promise.” Trudy bit her lip. “You’d better not.” Then, apparently coming to a decision, she went around him and disappeared down the steps. Rafe slipped inside Ellie’s room. She sat at her dressing table, her hands holding on to her bent head. Candlelight shone across her long, golden-brown hair where the waves flowed over her shoulders to her waist. She wore a white night rail that caressed her soft curves. “Ellie,” he whispered her name. She jerked her head up and looked at his image in her mirror. “What are you doing in my room?” She spoke to his reflection. He strode across and came up behind her. His hands reached out and touched her soft, silky hair. “I need to talk with you.” “You had time to talk with me at your home. This is highly improper. You must leave.” He closed his eyes and rubbed the strands of her hair through his fingers. Leaning down, he breathed in her familiar lemony scent. Her

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warmth radiated around him. He raised his eyes to hers. “I want you. Only you.” She hadn’t moved except to raise her head since he’d said her name. His hands slid down the inside of her gown and covered her breasts. Her heart pounded against his hands. His thumb and finger tightened around each nipple. His cock went rock hard. Lowering his head, he kissed the side of her neck. “Let me make love to you.” “No. There is no hope for us. You must marry into a more powerful family than mine. I intend to marry Lord Turner.” “I have no intention of marrying anyone but you.” “Have you told your stepmother and Lavinia of your choice?” Her eyes taunted him. “I have.” Before she had time for more questions, he moved one hand across her flat stomach to the wet curls covering her sex. “Spread your legs for me,” he demanded. He held her attention as she moved, and he rubbed his finger over her clit. Shivers rippled over her smooth skin. “Lean back against me.” All resistance gone, she did as he asked. Gently, he slid one finger into her tight sheath. His hot cock pulsed against her back as he rolled her nipple between his fingers of one hand while the other stroked the inside of her hot passage. “Bend your head back.” His lips ravished her sweet mouth, her tongue tangling in the dance of desire while her body surged up to meet his touch. Her wetness increased, and she moaned in his mouth. He stopped abruptly. “Don’t,” she protested. “I’m only going to move us to a more comfortable position.” He blew out the one candle and picked her up. He’d seen the placement of her bed and headed in that direction. He sat her on the edge. “Lay back and open your legs for me. I want to sip your sweet honey.” As though in a dream, she did as he said. He brushed her filmy skirt aside and knelt before her. His fingers opened her to him. He

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separated her pink, swollen lips and drank in the sight of her. His mouth covered her clit, and his tongue darted back and forth across the sensitive area. Her body moved against his lips. Two of his fingers slipped inside her opening and caressed the satin skin. He moved his fingers in and out of her vagina. His tongue licked along the sides of her lower lips and replaced his fingers at her sensitive opening. She whimpered. He lifted his head. “Am I hurting you?” She shook her head no. He grinned and bent back to his sweet task. His hands covered her breast again, and his fingers danced over her nipples. **** Rafe’s hands, lips, and tongue bombarded her body with heat along every nerve ending. She raised her body in a bow. The pleasure almost agony. “I need you, please.” He stood and uncovered his cock. Placing himself at her entrance he leaned over and covered her mouth with his. He entered in one swift plunge sending waves of desire coursing through her body. He surged in and out, hard and fast, his own wave catching him quickly, and he emptied his seed inside her. His hands framed her face as he looked deeply into her eyes. “I have to go.” He pulled back and covered her with her gown. “I hate to, but your parents might hear us or come to check on you. Meet me at the cave tomorrow. It’s obvious I need to spend more time convincing you that you’ll always be mine.” Before she protested, he’d slipped out of the room. When she hurried to the door, he was out of sight. She leaned her head against the hard wood of the closed door. Damn him. Her body still pulsed with desire. He’d made sure she wouldn’t ignore his invitation.

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**** Rafe had not told her what time to meet him, but Ellie dressed in her old riding habit and tiptoed downstairs. She’d hoped to get past her parents on her way to the stables. No luck. Her father came out of the dining room a harsh frown on his face. “Please join your mother and me.” He motioned her into the room. Her mother sat staring at the newspaper. She raised her head and handed the paper to Ellie. “Perhaps you can explain this to your father and me?” Almost afraid to touch the newspaper, Ellie took it gingerly out of her mother’s hands. “Read the first column under the town news.” Black print seemed to jump out at her. What country lady, the daughter of a baron, has used all her womanly charm to compromise a new duke. The country lady seems to be following in the improper footsteps of her grandmamma. Will the duke meet her demands or marry his long-suffering fiancée? Ellie tried to pretend she didn’t understand the article. “What has this to do with us, Mama?” “Do not lie to me, Eleanor,” her mother demanded. “You know I’ve feared you’d stepped beyond the bounds of propriety. I warned you not to become like my mother. Now you’ve brought disgrace to our family.” “The duke will make this right.” Her father stomped across the room and stood by Ellie’s chair. “You have disappointed us, daughter. The gossips will have a wonderful time ripping you and our family apart. All the old stories about your grandmother will surface and embarrass your mother again. Still, once you are married, the ton’s fickle attention will seek fresher news. “I am going to confront the duke this morning.” “Please wait, Papa.”

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“No. We must address this immediately.” He strode out of the room. They heard his boots as he took quick, determined steps down the corridor. Ellie jumped up to follow him. “Stop, Eleanor,” her mother commanded. Ellie turned. “I have to find Rafe first. I’ll not have Papa insisting Rafe marry me. If he wants me for his wife and asks without encouragement from anyone else, then I’ll say yes. Never will I accept a forced proposal.” Ellie hurried along the passageway looking for her father. He was out of sight. She called for Trudy. Hopefully, Rafe had already left his house for the day and he’d miss seeing Papa. Trudy came almost immediately. “Tell the footman to see my horse is saddled and at the front door right away.” Trudy nodded and walked away to pass on the message. Ellie watched out the window. The minutes moved slowly before she saw the groom leading her horse down the drive. He stopped and waited to help her mount. Ellie swung herself onto her horse and settled her skirts. She waved to Trudy and took off, riding fast across the wide expanse of fields in the direction of Rafe’s hunting lodge. When she arrived, she saw her father’s stallion tied to a tree in front. He came out the door, slamming it behind him, anger and frustration evident on his face. “What are you doing here?” he asked and frowned up at Ellie. “Go home. I intend to wait for the duke to return.” “Please, Papa, this is not the way to handle the situation.” “And what would you suggest, daughter?” “To ignore the whole episode. I’m sure that Lady Lavinia is behind the rumors. With time the gossip will fade away.” “Your reputation will still be tarnished. No, the duke must marry you to make everything right.”

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“I don’t want a man to ask me to marry him because my father insists.” “You might have considered that before your behavior caused this trouble. I’ve suspected things were not as they appeared. It is my fault that I didn’t question you.” Realizing she’d not be able to change his mind, Ellie turned her horse, waved at Papa, and rode toward home. As soon as she was out of sight, she changed directions toward the one place she hoped to find Rafe. She didn’t see his horse at first. The sound of the waterfall and light mist from the water greeted her as she rode up. Ellie slid off her horse and tied the reins to a nearby tree. She stared across the pond, and saw a dark head moving in the direction of the waterfall. A tall, lean, naked figure stepped out of the water. She had a glimpse of tanned skin glistening with silver drops of water, and firm muscles rippled as he moved quickly and disappeared into the cave. Without hesitation, Ellie shed her clothes and slipped into the cool water. Using firm strokes, she quickly crossed the small waterhole. **** At first, Rafe thought he was seeing a vision. A water nymph with long, shiny, golden-brown hair hanging across her shoulders and down her back to her waist. Full breasts tipped in a rose color stood out firmly, and her slim midriff flowed into curves and valleys, held up by long, shapely legs. When his eyes came back to her face, her sweet lips had curved into an inviting smile. He moved from where he’d just begun to start a fire to stand in front of her. “I’d come here to prepare for an intimate picnic. The guest of honor is early, but I’m not complaining.” His hand reached out and caressed the side of her face. “You have the loveliest skin,” he whispered to her.

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Now his other hand touched the other side of her head. His fingers slid through the wet, slick strands of hair while he bent and covered her face with quick, light kisses. Her faint sigh brushed across his face as though a butterfly barely touched him. Otherwise, she didn’t move. She stood as a statue of loveliness offering herself to him. His groin tightened with desire. His lips teased the side of her neck, moving along until he felt the beat of her heart pounding through the translucent skin. Her pulse beat more rapidly as he gave his dedicated attention to the area. But those gorgeous breasts tempted him to move on. His mouth closed over one breast as his tongue moved over and around the tight nipple. Her body trembled under his caresses. His cock hardened and rubbed against her abdomen. She started to move. “Stand still. You have presented yourself to me as the most beautiful present. I intend to enjoy every inch of my gift.” Leaving his fingers to rub her nipples, he moved the rest of his body down in front of her. He kissed her rib cage, her abdomen, and teased her belly button with his tongue. Her body swayed slightly. “Open your legs.” She did and the sweet smell of her arousal led him to her clit. His tongue licked the sensitive area. Her hands moved into his hair, holding on. Reaching down, he slid his fingers across her swollen, wet lower lips and moved one finger into her tight passage. She moaned, making his cock go even harder. **** Ellie’s body was on fire. Everywhere he touched or kissed burned with desire, the desire to have him in her, around her, taking her hard and fast. She wanted to move, but was torn between the almost painful arousal and the urge to respond, to cover his body with kisses and stroke his hard cock. Her thoughts flitted in and out as he licked

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and tasted her. At times, she was sure she’d fall. Her body swayed, ached, hungered for more. Ah, his teeth rasped across her most sensitive area, and his fingers moved quicker in and out. She had to move her body more firmly against his mouth. The ripples started as his mouth suckled her clit. “Can’t wait, can’t hold back.” His hands gripped her hips. “Let go, love. Let go.” Fire consumed her body. Her back taut, all she felt was his mouth, his hands grasping her tighter as she swayed then fell into his arms. He slid her down to the ground, raised her hips, and went in her to the hilt. She screamed with the ecstasy. His mouth covered hers as he pounded into her. The feelings built again like a roaring fire taking over. At the last moment, he raised his head and stared into her eyes. “You are mine, and you will marry me. No one else will ever have you but me.” He pulled almost all the way out. She raised her head to plead. “Do you agree,” his words sounded harsh. “Yes, yes, I will marry you.” “I love you,” he whispered into her ear, as he slid deeply inside of her, flinging her into space. Vaguely, she heard his cry of release as the spill of hot sperm flooded her womb. He held her tightly as her tremors gradually subsided. “I didn’t hurt you?” he asked, a concerned expression on his face. She shook her head no. Her breathing, still hard, made it difficult to speak. “Seeing you with someone else yesterday made me realize I’d never allow anyone else to have you.” He brushed the hair off her forehead. “I’d already told my stepmother and Lavinia that I planned to marry you. The shock of thinking I might be too late caused a sleepless night.” Ellie curled into him. She brushed her hand across the soft hair on his chest. Her tongue licked at his nipples. She raised her head to look at him.

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“Lord Turner is a good man and if I didn’t love you, I’d accept his offer. But no one can replace you in my heart. I’ve loved you for years. Before you went to war.” He smiled. “That is why you didn’t accept those other proposals.” She took in a deep breath, enjoying the smell of him. Her hand moved lower and cupped his sac. She watched as his cock began to arouse from the nest of black curls. Raising her head, she studied him. His blue eyes had darkened to almost black. “So soon, my lord?” He chuckled. “Only with you, my love. I don’t think we need to worry about my having an heir. We’ll marry soon as he may be already on the way.” “And if we have a girl?” “We’ll love her and watch her closely just in case she favors her mama.” “Did you see the paper?” Ellie asked. He nodded. “I’ve already sent a message to Lavinia’s parents describing the difficulty their daughter will have with the ton if any further articles appear. I’m sure her parents will understand my message and will see there are no more problems from their daughter.” “The one was enough. Father is very upset and demanding you marry me.” “Good. He’ll be pleased to see I’ve already taken care of his request.” “We’d better dress and ride to your lodge. He said he intended to stay there until you returned.” Rafe stood and held out his hand. “Race you across the pond.” Laughing, he ran through the waterfall and into the lake. Ellie tried to catch up, but he held out a hand to help her onto the shore on the other side.

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They quickly dressed and rode toward Rafe’s place. As she’d stated, her papa sat on the step by the front door. Rafe swung down and took brisk steps across the dirt path to greet him. “I’m glad to see you, my lord. I intended to ride to your house to ask you an important question, but I ran into Ellie and she told me where to find you.” Her father looked behind the duke to see Ellie on her horse. “I told you to go home.” “Rafe waylaid me, and I couldn’t resist listening to his suggestion that we wed and forget all about that mean article.” “I was going to ask you first, my lord, but I didn’t want to wait any longer.” Papa stood. He studied both of them. “I’ve been sitting here a good while. I’m sure the wedding will take place with the upmost expediency, Your Grace.” “Absolutely, I agree, and please call me Rafe.” He put out his hand. Finally, her father smiled and took the offered hand. “Welcome to the family, son.”

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Epilogue Ellie took a deep breath of early morning air as she rode behind Rafe. He’d arrived promptly after breakfast. He’d ridden his stallion and brought a lovely brown mare, named Apricot, to her as a gift. Her parents had greeted him warmly. Her mother expressed her pleasure at their betrothal and assured him she’d see the wedding was set for four weeks from now, after the banns had been posted. They galloped across meadows and then slowed for the sloping hills. Rafe led the way to the highest spot and then dismounted to help her. Ellie walked to the edge while Rafe tethered the horses. Heat from Rafe’s body warmed her skin as he came and stood behind her. His hands threaded through her dark hair, scattering hair pins to the ground. She whirled around. “What do you think you’re doing?” His lips curved. “You didn’t think I’d bring you all this way and not have my way with you?” “Again?” she teased. “You have been raised to be a gentleman.” “And you a lady, but that didn’t stop you from throwing yourself into my life. Now you must deal with the consequences.” “I like the consequences.” He smiled and lightly kissed her mouth. “I hunger for the taste of you,” he whispered against her cheek as his lips began to caress her face. “And I long for your sweet, lemony fragrance,” he held up a long swath of her hair and breathed deeply. “My hands ache to touch your velvety skin.” His fingers moved from her cheek, down her neck, and between her breasts.

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Her breath quickened and a shiver went through her body. Heat and pleasure rose, stopping all her thoughts. His arms came around her, and he carried her toward a clump of trees. In the shade, he laid her on tender grass. His body followed and covered hers. He slid down to her feet and removed her slippers. His large hands massaged her instep and calf muscles. Ellie tried to pull back. “This is my turn. Yesterday, you had it all your way.” “Didn’t you enjoy my attentions?” “Yes, but I want to give back to you.” “Oh you do. Now lie back and enjoy.” He kept a hold on her with gentle strength. His lips followed the progression of his hands, and her head fell back in surrender. The warm path of his mouth brought an ache to the lower part of her body, and when his lips brushed across her most private part, she raised herself to meet his demands and welcomed him into her arms. He slid into her and filled her with his warmth, strength, and love. **** Later, he cupped her face and sipped the sweetness from her mouth. “I love you, my sassy, beautiful gypsy. Your determination to save me from myself, your sweet courage to actually risk your life for me, and your inner beauty won’t go away with age, but will grow more with each passing year.” “I thought you might only offer for me because you took my virginity. Never did I truly believe you’d choose me if you got your sight back. I wanted you to be happy. When I came to you, I lived my dream. I’d accepted it would have to end some day.” “You gave me hope.” “Did hitting your head cause your sight to return?”

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“Possibly it contributed to it, but mostly I think it was because I remembered who shot me. Always in my nightmares it had been unclear. Something Ralph said, as he went to leave the barn made me realize it was him. He must have known from my expression that I had regained my memory. Since his first attempt had failed, he tried again in the barn. He hit me and lit the fire. When I came around, I smelled the smoke and couldn’t get my bearings. I was overcome before I could escape. Without you and Booth, I’d have died. Shortly after I awoke, my vision began to clear.” Ellie threw her arms around him. “What will stop him from trying again?” “Father and I talked. Father had arranged for Ralph to travel to the continent. If he returns, he’ll be tried for attempted murder. He has enough money to live very well. Father made the arrangements before his death. Sometimes I wish I’d handled the problem myself. Maybe my father would not have died. The news about Ralph hurt him terribly. “But I’m sure if I had tried to send Ralph away, everything would have come out anyway. Father would have insisted on knowing what was going on. “Don’t worry. I don’t expect to hear from Ralph again.” He brushed his hand over her hair. “My stepmother was also devastated when father told her about their son. That is why I tried to handle the problem with Lavinia without confronting her. In the end, we still had a difficult confrontation.” Rafe rolled over and stared up at the tree. “But if we give her grandchildren to fill her heart with love, then I believe she’ll recover. Her other choice is to visit Ralph and perhaps stay with him. Whichever she wants is all right with me.” “Grandchildren, as in plural?” Rafe looked across at her and grinned. “I thought you wanted children.”

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Ellie laughed and leaned over him, covering his face with kisses. “We’d better get married soon. As you said yesterday, we may have already started on our family.” “I definitely like your being agreeable, my love.” “Don’t expect it all the time. I can be a very stubborn woman.” “I wouldn’t want you any other way.” Her green eyes sparkled with mischief. He turned on his side and pulled her tighter against him. His cock rose and thumped against her abdomen. Desire swept over him. “Ah, love, I seem to never get enough of your sweetness. We might be a bit late for the luncheon your mother suggested.” His mouth covered hers and sipped her sweetness. Her hand covered his rigid shaft, sending heat flooding through his veins. “You saved my life and may be the death of me yet.” He held her gaze as he swept her skirts aside, opened her legs, and slid his cock into her tight, hot, responsive body. Ellie arched up to greet him. “My love, my only love.”

THE END WWW.PAIGECAMERON.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Born in Florida, Paige Cameron’s early dreams included being a movie star. Of course, it didn’t happen. Later, she escaped into daydreams full of fascinating stories. Her friends had to endure her reading these tales to them when she began to put them to paper. There were detours in her life for marriage, children, traveling to foreign countries where her husband’s job took her. She continued to be an avid reader and dream of the day she’d have a book published. She finally got started writing and divorce side tracked her. Now, happily married to her hero, with older children, she decided to pursue her dream career, writing.

Also by Paige Cameron Siren Classic: The Earl’s Intriguing Imposter Siren Classic: Scandalous Seduction

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Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com