Читать книгу The Earl's Stowaway - Krystina Daryl - Страница 6

Nancy had watched Melanie's and Christopher's interaction intently. She noted how closely their bodies seemed to draw to each other. Yes, the girl wasn't his mistress, but she had never seen her grandson lean so closely to a woman before. Melanie might not understand it, but she instantly recognized that Christopher had taken a protective position beside her.

It was adorable, and encouraging.

The only problem was that the child wasn't a lady. But, that could be taught and a story to hide her true background and give her a prestigious one could always be spun. Nancy knew all the right people to get it done.

A few days later, Nancy looked at Melanie, who sat with poise and posture next to her on the chapel pew. Her hands were crossed on her lap, and she had finally learnt to stop tapping her fingers impatiently when she grew bored. It took a few days and a few bruises on her knuckles, but the lesson stuck.

Nancy looked her over again. There was no sign of slavery or hardship on her. She looked like a born and bred Lady. She was dressed in expensive fabric designed in the latest fashion. The jewelry she wore was also expensive in taste and the pieces complimented Melanie better than they complimented Nancy. Granted, Melanie still had a long way to go, but she played the part well enough to earn an outing.

Nancy swallowed hard. This was her first venture out of her home in three years. The last time she was in the public chapel, she was with Thomas, her husband. She was so happy then, until the fever took him away.

She felt Melanie's hand on hers as she gave it a squeeze and her a smile, and then drew her hand back to her lap.

Nancy smiled, filled with new hope. The rest of her life was now dedicated to Christopher and Melanie, making sure they were both happy. She had come to love Melanie as the daughter-in-law she was denied. Her son Reese, had brought her a gold digger, who only cared about how much of the family fortune she could spend. She felt even more secure in her spending once she'd borne Christopher.

But apart from the money Thomas was kind enough to give them as an allowance, Nancy made sure the chit did not touch a coin more after she took custody of Christopher. Thomas began rearing him as his heir, with a sterner hand than he had used on Reese. And she reared him to be a true Wimberley gentleman, with a stern but loving care. They were determined not to make the same mistake twice, and it seemed to have worked.

They met no resistance from Christopher because he too was determined to restore their family name. He understood why they were so strict and why they pushed him so hard. After his parents' passing, Christopher began his upward rise in society, doubling their fortune and restoring their name. It took years to accomplish, but she was happy Thomas was there to see the fruits of their combined labor.

She had never seen a man so proud of his prodigy, and sometimes he would just sit in the office watching Christopher work all night. At first, Christopher thought he did so to make sure he made no mistake with the businesses, but after he figured out the reason, it drove him to better his success. Thomas was saddened when he moved out to the hall, but the boy was determined to prove he didn't need his hand held through life anymore.

The day after he left, Thomas began looking for a reputable bride, one who wouldn't be like their despised daughter-in-law. There were a few candidates, but Christopher couldn't stand them. Either they were too weak in character, too greedy for a title, not pretty enough, or sought to dominate him.

The search was making both Thomas and Christopher miserable until Nancy put a stop to it. She was sure Christopher could find a wife on his own, one who had everything he wanted, and most importantly, one he loved.

She smiled, turning forward to look at the priest; he already has found the next Countess, worthy to carry our name and the next heir. It would only take her grandson coming to the same conclusion to have her totally satisfied with his future. She spent the rest of the priest's sermon dreaming about great-grandchildren, and finally donning Melanie with the family heirlooms once she birthed a son.

*****

Melanie paced the drawing room like a caged cat. She was beginning to annoy Nancy. "Dove, sit down! Your pacing is making me dizzy!"

Melanie sat down next to her on the piano. "Forgive me, but it has already been a month since Chris... I mean Lord Ashworth left."

Nancy patted her cheek. "When Christopher is determined to do something, he will not stop until he accomplishes it. He is much like his grandfather that way." Melanie nodded, but Nancy could still see the worry in her eyes, and she loved it! "Turn around and play for me what you have learned so far."

Melanie pulled her lips in half a smile and played a soft melody for Nancy.

She smiled, impressed by how quickly she had learnt it. Melanie's fingers appeared to float majestically over the keys like one who had spent her entire life learning the instrument and not a month.

Now all she needed was a dance lesson, and she couldn't do that without Christopher. Where was her grandson? It worried her he had been away for so long without a word to Melanie. Nancy clenched her jaw. If he has found himself another woman, I will run her out of England!

"Milady, Mr. Meed is here to see you," Lawrence announced. His lips parted in an amused smile when she hissed.

"Show him in." She then turned to Melanie. "Put the rest of your hair up."

Melanie frowned then huffed, pulling the long braid up and twisting it around the bun at the nape of her neck.

Nancy smiled. The argument over how she was to wear her hair was long, proving to Nancy that the girl had some fire in her. But in the end she won, at least when it came to it being put up in public.

Melanie rose and stood a step behind Nancy, her hands crossed in front of her, her face pulled into a gentle smile. She had learned to hide her emotions well. Nancy couldn't even see the worry in Melanie's eyes anymore.

Mr. Meed bowed at the threshold then moved towards them. "Milady," he said, taking her bare hand and bowing over it. He then stood straight and turned to Melanie, "Miss... Monroe..." The hesitation and surprise in his voice was evident.

Nancy turned to look at Melanie, and for a moment, she saw fear in her eyes. She also noted that the girl didn't offer her hand to Mr. Meed, opting for a slight curtsy.

"Excuse me," Melanie announced, walking gracefully out of the parlor. But Nancy was sure that immediately after turning the corner, the girl had broken into a run.

Mr. Meed stared after her, a twinkle of lust having replaced the barely concealed shock in his eyes. That angered her. "Carl!" she yelled, making him jump, "what is it you want in my home?"

Startled, he turned to her. "Milady, you didn't inform me that you have a beautiful flower in your home."

"Keep away from her, Carl. I will not allow your advances towards her," she threatened. "You so much as touch her without my consent, I'll send Christopher after you!" She smiled, noting the flicker of fear in his eyes.

She never understood why, but so many people seemed to fear her grandson. She had heard rumors of his violent nature, but she had yet to see it for herself.

"I came to inquire where your grandson is at present," Carl started with a stammer before he found his voice. "It has been a month since his absence."

"What my grandson does is his business. I do not see how it is any of yours."

Carl stood straighter. "I fear he might have become his father. If so, I am ready and willing to take over the running of your businesses."

"Do you also plan to take over the role of the Earl of Ashworth?" Christopher bellowed from the door, making both Nancy and Carl jump. "Would you like to also run my county, Mr. Meed? See to my tenants, my lands and manage both households, mayhap take residence in Ashworth Hall?"

Nancy placed a hand over her racing heart. For the first time, she was starting to understand how people could fear her grandson. A man needn't be physically violent to frighten those around him. Christopher's tone of voice, his biting words and the way he held himself was enough to cause others to quake in his presence.

He sauntered to Carl, his face rigid in anger, a dangerous glimmer in his eyes. "I do not know how you tricked my grandmother into allowing you to run her share of the family fortune, but I will not let you put your greedy hands on mine!"

Carl stepped back until his knees hit the piano bench. He sunk down, pressing the keys with his elbows and they screeched loudly. "I was just concern..."

"Save your concern!" Christopher said in a voice that brooked no nonsense. "Now leave before I forget my grandmother is in the same room!"

Christopher stepped away, and Carl rushed to the door, almost bumping into Melanie. She moved aside, allowing him to pass, fear written on her face. Carl's eyes narrowed as he stared at her once more before he disappeared around the corner. Her skin crawled and her feet wanted to run as far away as possible. However, what she truly needed was to see Christopher. Taking a deep breath, Melanie stepped into the room, controlling herself not to break into a run and not exposing her true emotions at the sight of Christopher. She was so happy to see him. Though his expression showed he was happy to see her, it also showed confusion.

Nancy smiled, a devilish idea popping in her mind.

Melanie curtsied. "Welcome home, my lord." she spoke softly, her face turned to the ground.

Christopher gave her a slight bow. "I'm glad to be back, Miss Monroe." Then he stared at her, taking her in from the pearl pins in her hair to the bottom hem of her silk skirt, a smile on his face. He turned to Nancy. "She's different, Gran."

Nancy smiled proudly. "Do not forget your manners when I leave, Melanie."

Melanie curtsied again. "Yes, milady."

Nancy exited to leave the two love birds alone.

*****

Christopher patiently waited for the sound of his grandmother's sandals clacking on the marble floor to disappear before he grabbed Melanie's joined hands and pulled her to him. She flew to him with a squeal. He raised her up off her feet, and crushed her to him as he kissed her desperately. He'd dreamt of holding her and kissing her for many nights.

Never had he been so obsessed with wanting a woman than he did with Melanie. The sounds of her giggles and laughs, even her sniffles when she cried haunted him. He'd wanted to laugh with her, hold her again in his arms in comfort when she cried. But what he dreamed of most was being on top of her and feeling every curve of her body against his as they took pleasure from each other.

Christopher was addicted to a girl he barely knew. That should bother him. But having her in his arms at that moment, with the feel of her lips against his, her body pressed flush against his, he couldn't care less.

Melanie circled her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss. The urge to place her on the bench and put his weight on her filled him, but he moved behind the door instead, and pressed her against the wall.

She moaned, gripping his calves with her feet. He held her to the wall with his body, freeing his hands to reacquaint them with her body. She gasped loudly when he cupped her breast and he felt his loins burn. He hurriedly pulled her skirt up with his free hand, seeking her bare thigh.

"Christopher, stop!" she said breathlessly, breaking the kiss.

"Why?" he asked, recapturing her lips.

She pulled away and his lips moved to abuse her neck. She leaned back, exposing more of it to him. "Your grandmother will be coming back..." she gasped, "and it takes you a while to decrease."

"What?" He moved lower and began kissing the soft skin on her collar. He pulled down the fringed neck line of her dress to expose the top part of her breast. He wanted to take her nipple into his mouth, but settled for the warm swelling instead.

She pushed her chest out and he used the heel of his palm to push her breast out more. He dipped his tongue in and groaned as he was now able to flick his tongue across her nipple. She shuddered, tightening her fist in his hair. "Your erection... and I am not willing to service your hunger in your grandmother's studio."

He pulled away and stared at her stunned. "What?"

She turned to him, her face flushed and her breathing labored. "The Countess says it is not right for a lady to let a man compromise her before marriage."

Christopher shook his head, placing her down and stepping away, "I should have known. My grandmother taught you all about love making, didn't she?"

Christopher saw her face redden as she nodded. He let out an annoyed breath. "What else has she taught you?"

Melanie bounced on her heels with a childlike cheer. "Everything about being a Lady and the piano. Except dancing, we were waiting for you to do that."

"Why?"

"She didn't think you would like another man's hands on my waist."

He caught his breath when her grin deepened. He'd never seen anything so beautiful. Oh how he wanted her!

He took a step closer. "She's right."

Melanie's smile dropped as she moved back until her back pressed against the wall. "Christopher, please stop. I can't allow you to do as you wish anymore. Your grandmother is teaching me how to be a lady and you just ruined most of what I've learnt with one kiss."

She looked appetizing pressed against the wall. His body cried to have her, to taste her as he marked her as his with his kisses. Her eyes darted below his waist and he saw her eyes flash as she licked her lips. He felt himself tighten even worse.

He groaned, moving to sit on the chair. Damn his good sense! Leaving her with his grandmother had become a nightmare! His hands craved touching her, his lips craved kissing every inch of her skin and he wanted to be buried so deep inside he wouldn't know where he began and she ended. But Melanie was not going to go against his grandmother. It was a good thing he had ambushed her a few minutes ago, otherwise, he would still be filled with want.

He groaned. Who was he kidding? The only thing his kissing her had accomplished was to make his want increase!

She took the seat next to him. Her back was straight and her hands were crossed on her lap. She seemed nothing like the Melanie he had left a month previous.

"Did you find my siblings?" she asked anxiously.

Christopher sat upright, a lump of guilt stuck in his throat. "They don't live on your father's land anymore. The home and the little land he had left were seized by creditors."

Melanie's expression showed her fear and her erect posture dropped. She slumped in the seat, her trembling hand over her face. "They are gone?" she whispered.

Christopher rushed to her. He knelt beside her and took her hand in his. "I searched everywhere. No one knows where they are. It is assumed they went to Geraldine's mother."

Melanie's hand dropped, exposing her wet tears. "Is that true?"

Christopher heard the hope in her voice, and presumed the information was a good thing. "Yes."

She pressed a hand over her chest. "Then they are safe! Lyly will take care of them."

"Who is Lyly?"

"My step-sister. She was raised by her grandmother when Geraldine abandoned her to marry my father. There was no one for me to be taken to, so she tolerated my presence. Lyly and her grandmother will take good care of them, I'm sure of it."

Christopher smiled. "I'm glad you've stopped calling her mother."

She nodded. "I realized I was disrespecting my true mother, by allowing her that title." She slid off the seat and joined him on the floor. "Your grandmother told me about your parents. I'm glad she took you from them."

Christopher felt his chest tighten. He wasn't sure how he felt about Melanie knowing about his parents. He would have felt shame if they didn't share the same fate. "Not as glad as I." He kissed her hand and quickly changed the subject. "Do you know where Lyly lives?"

A cloud came over her face and she shook her head. "Geraldine said they kept moving around. She is the only one who knows."

Christopher drew her in his arms and hugged her to his chest. "Then, until we find out more, we will have to be content with the knowledge that they are safe."

She nodded, holding tight to his jacket. "Thank you, Christopher. I can sleep peacefully now."

He pulled away and arched a brow at her. "And what is my reward?"

"A smile.... and a kiss." Her hands slid up to his neck as she reached up to kiss him. "Just one," she warned.

"Just one," he repeated, lowering his head, shortening the trip and capturing her lips. He sighed at the contact, wrapping his arms around her frame and holding her tightly against him.

She tasted so good. Like honey full of hope and love. He could only imagine what the rest of her tasted like. At that thought, he pushed his tongue into her mouth deepening the kiss. She moaned, pulling him closer to her.

Just one... just one long one... He thought.

Christopher's hand sank to her ass and pushed her up his knee to his thick thigh. He rolled her hips against his thigh releasing a shivered gasp that quickly turned into a heated moan. She lifted her thigh to press against his arousal. Christopher's member jumped at the contact, sending a fierce heat rushing through him. He lifted his thigh a little higher and pushed her parted thighs to his hip to increase the contact.

She whimpered, rolling her hips again and pressing her thigh harder against him. Christopher felt his control leave him. He wanted her, then and there, damn the consequences!

As if to counter his resolve, he felt a chill rush down his head and down his back. Melanie screamed, pulling away.

Christopher stood to face the heavy familiar chuckle. "Nicholas!" he hissed, pushing his wet hair back.

"Chris, five more seconds and you would have taken her in your grandmother's studio," Nicolas announced in a whispered laugh.

Nicholas then turned to Melanie and took her hand; kissing the back of it. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Miss Monroe."

She pushed her wet hair off her face and curtsied. "It's a pleasure to meet you too, Lord Townson. I've heard so much about you, and I am relieved it was you and not the Countess who found us."

Christopher turned to her with a betrayed look. "You are glad?"

She glanced at him with a familiar look. He'd seen it on many well-bred ladies and it annoyed him. "I know what taken means Lord Ashworth." She pulled her hand out of Nicholas's. "Please pardon me, but the water has added weight to my hair which is painful."

She stepped away and tilted her head. She pulled out several pins and her hair cascaded to the side. Christopher felt his groin tighten at the sight of her combing her fingers through her hair.

That dark mane was one of the reasons he loved her. He staggered, Love?

"Yes, brother, love," Nicholas whispered with a chuckle.

Christopher turned to him alarmed. "Did I...?"

"Say that out loud?" Nicholas finished. "Yes, you did, but she didn't hear you."

Feeling a little safer, he let out a breath and turned back to Melanie. She was standing up straight, combing her long wet hair to the side and twisting it in a rope.

"Melanie Monroe!" His grandmother's voice filled the room, making them all jump. She moved towards Melanie. "Why is your hair down? And why is it wet?"

She turned to Christopher with an alarmed look, which he returned. There was no way he was going to give an explanation, not on his life!

Nancy turned her attention on him. "Your hair is wet as well? What were you two doing?" The suspicion in her voice was loud and clear.

Christopher swallowed hard, begging his mind to work quickly.

Nicholas stepped forward, taking her hand and kissing her knuckles. "Countess, you look lovelier than the last time I saw you."

She smiled. "Your flattery is not going to dissuade my curiosity as to why my grandson and my lady in waiting are soaked."

Nicholas stepped back. "I aim for no such thing, but to explain it myself."

Please don't let it be something foolish! Christopher thought.

His grandmother gave Nicholas an impatient glare, prompting him to speak. "I wished to play a prank on Chris and he shielded himself with Miss Monroe." He turned to Christopher with an amused smile. "His drenching was intentional," and then he turned to Melanie with an apologetic smile, "hers was accidental."

Christopher watched to see if his grandmother bought the falsehood. She was quiet for a moment before she nodded. "Have you apologized to Miss Monroe?"

"Yes I have. And have also offered my services to teach her how to dance."

Christopher cut his eyes at him and Nicholas laughed in response.

"If it is fine with you, milady, I accepted his offer," Melanie added.

Christopher shifted his gaze to her, what the hell!

Nancy nodded with a smile. "They will both teach you." She looked at Nicholas, "You are welcome to stay in my home. I have arranged a Christmas ball and I'd like her prepared for it."

"Gran, what will be the story?" Christopher asked. She spared a glance to Nicholas before she settled her eyes back to him. "Nick already knows."

"There are no secrets between me and Christopher, milady," Nicholas added.

Nancy nodded with relief. "Very well. I will present her as the daughter of Thomas's distant American cousin. Since his grandmother was American, no one will doubt it. She already knows everything there is to know about his family, in case someone asks."

"Nicholas doesn't need to stay, Gran. I am perfectly capable of teaching Melanie..." her arched brow made him pause. He sighed and corrected himself. "Miss Monroe, how to dance."

"He is staying, as your chaperone, Christopher, just in case you give Annie the slip."

Christopher bit down on the oath on his tongue. "Annie is her chaperone?"

"In the house, yes, but in public, I am." She turned and walked to Melanie. "Get ready for dinner." Melanie nodded and she pulled away. "Try not to get drenched again."

Melanie cursed, surprising both Christopher and Nicholas. Christopher expected his grandmother to chastise her for her lack of manners but she just sighed.

"Not in front of company, Melanie," Nancy casually said before walking out.

Christopher was stunned, not only by the oath, but by the fact his grandmother did not reprimand her.

Nicholas laughed. "You curse like a sailor."

Melanie stalked to Christopher. "She knows what we were doing in here!"

Christopher chuckled at her crinkled nose. She was livid, and he liked it! "I know."

"You cannot keep kissing me, Christopher!"

He stayed quiet.

"Promise me—"

Christopher held her lips together with his fingers to quieten her. He heard the threat in her voice. If she only knew it was doing the exact opposite of what she intended. All it did was arouse him more. He released her lips, grabbed her waist and pulled her to him. He planted a quick kiss on her lips. "I do not make promises I cannot keep."

She pulled away, her hands fisted at her sides, as she stared daggers into him. That fire could be put to good use in private, nude and him on top of her.

"Christopher..." she hissed angrily.

"Tell me, do I need to turn you across my knees?" he asked, and then added, "I promised to spank you if you misbehave and, young lady, that is a promise I will keep."

He held his fingers threateningly over her lips and she sucked them into her mouth, giving them a nip. The slap of his hand against her backside had her yipping and carefully allowing him to pull his fingers free. At his chuckle and shake of his head, she settled a livid glare on him and stomped out of the room, her long hair swinging behind her.

Nicholas whistled. "If you didn't already have your eye on her, I would be chasing her skirt! She's endowed in all the right places."

"Careful, brother!" Christopher hissed out the warning.

Unfazed, Nicholas shrugged. "That depends, on what you plan on doing with the love you feel for her."

Christopher stared at him, completely at a loss for words. He'd only just realized that he loved her, one month after meeting her. Hell, they've only been around each other for two days! And yet he thought of her every morning when he woke up and every night before he went to sleep, realizing how empty his bed was without her in it. If it wasn't for all his work taken by the time in between, her face would be all he thought about.

Nicholas patted his shoulder. "You have a lot to think about, brother."

******

It was torture sitting across from Christopher, feeling his eyes on her as she ate silently. His gaze made her entire body tingle, especially the juncture of her hips. How Christopher held so much power over her body and heart amazed her. If she didn't know better...

Shit! Damnation! She loved him!

"How?" she whispered raising her head and meeting his eyes. She saw the desire in them and it stirred a fire in the pit of her stomach. She knew it wouldn't take much on his part to make her give in. She chuckled, what was she thinking? She was a complete wanton around him!

"Melanie, are you all right?" Christopher asked, his voice husky.

She knew what that meant. He was struggling with his urge as much as she was. "I'm fine." The response felt dry and cracked. Without breaking the hold of their eyes, she picked up her glass and sipped at the water. Then she held the cool crystal against her hot cheek and watched as the flames danced in Christopher's eyes.

Christopher hissed, turning his head to Nicholas and breaking the hold. She let out the breath she hadn't realized she was holding and pressed the cold glass to her neck.

She was damned!

"Annie will be sleeping in your room from tonight onwards, Melanie," Nancy commented casually.

Melanie turned to her shocked. Hell! Did nothing escape her notice? "Yes, milady," she whispered.

"Is that truly necessary?" Christopher asked, his voice still husky.

"Oh yes, I believe it is." Nancy raised her gaze to him. "As long as there are gentlemen in my home, one in particular, it is very necessary."

Melanie wanted to weep from the embarrassment. "May I be excused?" she whispered.

"Yes you may. Meet us in the lounge," Nancy instructed, taking a sip of her wine.

Melanie stood up, and Nicholas and Christopher stood with her. She dared a glance below Christopher's waist and saw he was holding a napkin there. She sighed, almost running out.

She got to the long hallway and hid behind the pillar. "How can this be happening?" she asked herself, pressing her heated body against the cool stone wall. Mayhap the emotion will pass, she thought to herself. But not the love... or maybe it's just infatuation?

She held onto the latter for but a moment before the fuss ended. She knew what love felt like, and this, what she felt for Christopher, was definitely love. But did he love her back, or is it just lust he feels? That thought pained her heart.

She went into the parlor and quietly sat next to Nancy keeping her eyes low and away from Christopher's. It was difficult ignoring him, especially since she could feel the heat of his gaze on her, but it was necessary. She wanted love before she gave in, and until then, she was going to keep her distance.

That proved difficult two weeks later. Nicholas had kept to his word and taught her how to dance and to Nancy's shock, Christopher kept turning down her invitation. Melanie knew he was opting to work and stay clear of her.

This was what she wanted, wasn't it? Well not anymore.

"He just needs some time to think, Melanie, do not fret," Nicholas whispered, when they turned away from Nancy.

She smiled weakly. "Do you read minds?"

He chuckled. "Just faces, and I know my friend better than I know myself."

Melanie stared at him, a question itching at the tip of her tongue. But she wasn't sure she wanted to know the answer if it wasn't what she expected.

"Are you going to ask what you wish, or chew your lip until it bleeds?" he offered, his grin deepening.

She let two beats of uncertainty pass before she spoke. "What does he feel for me?" she whispered.

Nicholas twirled them twice to increase the distance between them and Nancy. "You must understand that he fears his relationship may become as disastrous as that of his parents. It haunts him, but I'm sure he will be able to make a decision soon."

She smiled. "You didn't answer my question."

He feigned confusion. "Didn't I?"

She chuckled. "You are a good friend, Lord Townson."

"Just Nicholas or Nick, I do not like being referred to by my title. Lord Townson makes me feel beyond my years." He turned his lips down into a fake pout.

Melanie giggled. "In private, yes, but in public and around Gran, no."

He raised his eyebrow. "You refer to her as Gran as well?"

Melanie nodded. "She asked me to after dinner last week. I'm not sure why."

Nicholas chuckled and shook his head. "That calculating old dowager! She is always up to mischief. You can consider that as her approval."

Melanie stared at him puzzled. "Approval for what?"

"To be Christopher's wife." She gasped making him laugh. "I know you've thought about it."

"Well, not that exactly..." she blushed.

"Miss Monroe, a lady doesn't think of such things!" He faked a scorn.

"Don't act so shocked. Compared to you, my thoughts are equal to a saint's!"

He laughed, throwing his head back and attracting Nancy's attention. He apologized to her then moved a few feet away before he whispered, "Christopher did tell me you were perceptive but such a comment does suggest your skill has had some influence. Tell me how much gossip, have you heard concerning this brute you think me to be?"

"Well, Theresa and Annie, the maids, told me to be careful around you or find myself ruined. But I'm not one to listen to another's opinion on a person's character. I prefer to find out for myself, with caution of course."

"So you do not believe them?"

"Not until I witnessed Christopher's reaction to your offer to teach me how to dance." She shook her head. "That man can be damn possessive!"

He chuckled. "And what of the dowager, what warning did she issue?"

Melanie smiled. "Gran did tell me you are one to watch, but not to worry too much about gaining unwanted attention from you. Shouldn't I be worried, my lord?"

Nicholas laughed. "Oh no! I rather prefer having my neck whole."

Melanie laughed, spinning out of his hold and coming to a stop in someone else's arms.

"Hallo again," Carl whispered, pressing her tight against him.

Melanie felt her body go cold at his touch. Quickly she placed her hands on his chest and pushed him away. Nicholas grabbed her hand and pulled her behind him. "What have you done to the Lady, Mr. Meed?" he asked harshly.

Carl gave a slight bow. "Nothing, Lord Townson."

"It didn't look like nothing," Nancy pushed, standing up and moving to Melanie. "Dove, you look pale. What's the matter?"

Melanie pulled a tight smile over her lips and shook her head. "Forgive me. He took me by surprise and I reacted."

"See, it was all a misunderstanding," Carl spoke with a casual laugh.

Nancy nodded, moving back to her seat.

Carl moved towards them and Melanie fought the urge to hide further behind Nicholas. He held out his hand, eyeing her. "May I have this dance?"

She wanted to yell 'go to hell' and run out, but, she wasn't that uneducated girl anymore. She was supposed to either politely decline and make up an excuse or accept.

"You can have the next one, Carl," Nicholas spoke firmly, taking Melanie's hand and starting the dance. "What did he really do to you, Melanie?"

God, what can I say? What will happen if I scream that this was the man who bought me to be his whore! Though Gran had taken her into her home and her heart, would her feelings change knowing that the man she trusted to attend to her business thought of her ward as nothing more than an escaped whore? Shaking her head, she gave Nicholas an answer. "The way he looks at me... it makes me feel very uncomfortable... I'd prefer not to have him touch me..."

He lowered his voice, "Do you feel safe with me, or would you prefer I go get Christopher?"

She nodded, swallowing hard. The thought of having Christopher near her made her feel safer. "Please do. Just don't... don't tell him what I told you. He-he already has to control his temper around Mr. Meed."

"Say no more. I understand." He stopped the dance and led her to a seat. "Miss Melanie is having a headache. I'm off to ask Lawrence for a reliever."

"Why not use the bell pull?" Nancy asked.

"It is no problem, milady," he answered with a smile, then quickly left.

Carl stood up and approached her and the urge to weep filled her. "Mayhap, a slower dance might help?" he asked holding out his hand.

"I do not know a dance slower than the waltz but I see no reason why you shouldn't dance," Nancy answered. "Unless you have one, Melanie?"

Melanie knew the weak excuse of a headache would not hold. She shook her head, and hesitantly placed her hand in Carl's. She stood up and walked to the middle of the room with him. She hissed when his hand settled on her waist.

"Imagine my shock to find my slave in my employer's house, acting like a Lady," he whispered in her ear. Melanie turned her head away from him and kept silent, praying Nicholas would move quicker.

"I could expose you, but that can be avoided." He nuzzled his nose against her cheek making her jerk her head further away in disgust. "One night, Melanie, and I'll keep your secret."

She turned to him and glared straight into his eyes. "There is no secret to keep. The only secret is the identity of the man who sought to steal my innocence."

Carl's eyes widened and she smiled at the shocked response. "I wonder what Christopher would do if he found out it was you I was running from?" His face flushed red as he looked away. "Yes, Mr. Meed. Christopher is keeping me under his protection. Threaten me again, make advances on me again, and I'll reveal your true character to him."

Carl stared back at her, the anger blazing in his eyes. "Are you his mistress? Is that why you first name him?" he hissed angrily.

Melanie had a string of curses reserved for him, ready to be unleashed but she pulled away from his sickening hold instead. "Thank you for the dance, Mr. Meed."

He pulled her back. "But we've only just begun."

"She said thank you. I won't be as kind if you do not release her, this instant." Christopher said, closing the few feet to them with three powerful long strides.

Carl quickly released her, moving away from her. Christopher stalked after him, "What are you doing here, Carl?" he snarled.

"Your grandmother invited me," he stammered, fearfully looking up at Christopher.

Melanie looked at Christopher in shock. She has never seen him in such a state before. Every muscle in his body was tensed with the strain of maintaining control. She turned to Nicholas. What had Nicholas said to him?

Nicholas moved closer to her and whispered, "Chris despises the man. All I had to do was tell him Carl was insisting on a dance with you."

She nodded, looking back at the imposing man standing a foot over the cowering one. There was no way she was going to tell Christopher that Carl was the man who purchased her. He looked ready to kill Carl, all because of a dance!

She moved to the duo and placed her hand on Christopher's arm. "Christopher, dance with me." He didn't move, his hands tightly clenched in fists. She moved between them and held his fists in her hands. "Please, Christopher. Dance with me."

Finally, he looked down and the rage in his eyes slowly sipped away. She stood there quietly, waiting for him to move first. She felt his hands relax in hers as he laced their fingers. Her polite smile spread into a genuine one, glad the storm had passed.

"Mr. Meed, come with me," Nancy announced standing up.

Melanie didn't turn to see them leave and neither did Christopher break the hold his eyes had on hers. She felt like they were conversing and the one thing they both wanted was to be alone in each other's arms.

Nicholas laughed once they were both gone. "That eliminates one suitor from the race. I'll give you two some privacy, but I'll be back when your Gran appears."

With that he bowed out, leaving them alone, quietly looking at each other. She half expected Christopher to pounce on her as usual, but he didn't. It wasn't lust she saw in his eyes, there was something else that made him look outright uncomfortable.

Christopher slipped her hand between his thumb and index finger, and slipped his other hand on her waist, as she rested her free one on his shoulder. They waltzed in silence for a few minutes before he spoke.

"Why is Carl very forward with you?"

Melanie turned the question back to him. "Why do you hate him so much?"

Christopher exhaled loudly. "Somehow, he convinced Gran to let him run her share of the Wimberley businesses. And since then, he's being trying to get his claws into my fortune as well."

"Well then, I believe you have your answer." She whispered, grateful for his response. She wasn't accustomed to lying, but she never wanted to see Christopher so livid again!

"What did he say to you?" he commanded with a gentle tone.

Melanie realized when he had that commanding tone, it was impossible to deny him anything. She wondered if it was just her or if everyone else felt compelled to confess when he used it on them. Mayhap she should try resisting now. She kept silent, her gaze fixated on her hand resting on his broad shoulder.

His hand moved from her waist to pat against the back of her skirt. "Melanie..."

Her eyes quickly rose to his. The palm against her backside might be a silent warning but the tone of his voice as he spoke her name was a definite command she answer or… or face unpleasant consequences. "He asked why I was first-naming you."

"And what did you tell him?" His tone was much more gentle, but still stern.

"That we were friends," she paused. Daring herself, she whispered, "Or are we much more?"

Christopher stopped and pulled her hands to rest on his chest. He drew her into his arms, completely enveloping her. She tipped her head further back to keep his gaze on hers. The discomfort was gone and replaced with something she was familiar with. His lips spread in a smile, and then he leaned down and took her lips in a gentle kiss.

She expected it to grow into an uncontrolled fire but it was warm and tender.

He pulled away and kissed her forehead. "I am not sure. But I would like to get to know you better."

"You know everything that there is to know about me, and I you," she whispered back, placing her head on his chest.

"Yes, but those are just details. I want to know what makes you laugh and what makes you cry. I want to know if you love taking walks and which season you prefer. I want to know the little things, not just the big things."

She nodded, pressing a kiss on his chest before she drew her hands around his waist. "I'm not sure about any of those... but I do love climbing to the roof top of high structures."

He pulled her away. "Why?" He sounded worried.

She shrugged and giggled. "The feel of the wind rushing past me, with my hair down and arms held wide like a bird's wings, makes me feel free. For that moment, I feel like am flying away from my hell."

He pulled her close and held her tight. "You never have to go back to that hell ever again. You have my word."

She tightened her hold around his waist feeling safe and protected. This was where she wanted to be for the rest of her life, in Christopher's arms. Like Nicholas said, she'd just have to wait until it was as clear to Christopher as it was to her—the fact that they belonged together.

"Christopher, let's go for a walk in the garden." She nuzzled her nose and planted two more kisses on his chest.

"It's dark," he answered.

"And quiet, and still, and windy," she countered, pulling him towards the door.

He laughed at the effort she was making to move him and took two steps forward to entertain her. "Gran will not allow it."

She pulled out of his hold and took his hand. "There are lanterns in the garden. I asked your grandmother to put them up before you arrived."

He smiled, following willingly behind her. "I saw them last night. Would you like me to send for Annie?"

Melanie shook her head. "I trust Nicholas will be enough. And besides, I want to let my hair down and Gran doesn't allow it in the presence of company."

Christopher stopped, pulling her to an abrupt halt. "You first name, Nicholas?" he accused.

Melanie laughed at his jealous tone. "He asked me to." She looked around the hallway before she tiptoed and planted a quick kiss on his lips. "Besides, he knows well not to court me."