Wicked Temptation

Eliza Lloyd

Randall VanLandingham married the first time for duty. This time he wants much more. Everyone knows his new wife has a past, but hes the one man powerful enough to stay the gossip while enjoying the fruits of her scandalous reputation. Anne is everything he wants in a womaninsatiable and interestingbut hes growing damn tired of fending off every man who lusts after his duchess. How does one protect the honor of a woman who has none? How does one win the love of a woman who has shared her love with many? Pragmatic Anne Porter, a Welsh coal miners daughter, learned how to use her beauty and sexuality to lift herself from poverty, and her plan was working perfectly. Until she married the handsome and much younger Duke of Pelham Until she fell in love

Elloras Cave Publishing

www.ellorascave.com

Wicked Temptation ISBN 9781419931925 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Wicked Temptation Copyright 2011 Eliza Lloyd Edited by Jillian Bell Cover art by Dar Albert Electronic book publication February 2011 The terms Romantica and Quickies are registered trademarks of Elloras Cave Publishing. With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Elloras Cave Publishing, Inc. 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be scanned, uploaded or distributed via the Internet or any other means, electronic or print, without the publishers permission. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/). Please purchase only authorized electronic or print editions and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted material. Your support of the authors rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the authors imagination and used fictitiously.

WICKED TEMPTATION
Eliza Lloyd

Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Westminster Abbey: The Dean and Chapter of the Collegiate College Church of St. Peter Westminster

Eliza Lloyd

Chapter One
Anne VanLandingham had committed the most unfashionable offense. She had fallen in love. The difficulty, of course, was whether her husband would mind. The poet Byron might have had something to say about foolish women, for surely the youthful affliction causing her distress could only be called imprudent. It had come upon her suddenly and painfully. And in the middle of the Fords ball. Not to say that one couldnt fall in love dancing underneath the three-tiered crystal chandelier, but did it have to happen to her? Anne, the Duchess of Pelham, flirted with her usual sangfroid. Her partner, the fashionable Earl of something, kept her securely encompassed in his arms as he guided her around the ballroom. However, the enjoyment of the dance was eclipsed by Annes dilemma and the irritating sight of the flirty, youthful miss dancing entirely too close to her husband. To Anne, he was the most handsome man in the room, probably in London. It wasnt unreasonable to think the silly young thing in his arms thought so too. The superficial excitement of the Season wore thin for heralways rubbing shoulders with the same people, hearing the same dull statements, watching the same blank look if she said anything remotely intelligent. She knew the source of her angst, had come to terms with it only recently, and it was no wonder she didnt recognize it at first, it happened so rarely in London. Your husband is a lucky man. How so, Lord she blanked for a minute, Lord Teesdale? A woman with your reputation? His mouth lifted in a familiar smirk. The price for her ridiculously legendary reputation tended to be the belief that she was available to anyone. She had a moment of regret for all shed done to win a place at her husbands side, but she guessed the loss of her reputation was a small price to pay in order to capture the attention of the duke and ultimately become his duchess. From the coal mines of Wales to Mayfair in London. She would do it all again. Across the room, her husband swept the Seasons newest and brightest London debutante through a tight group of dancers, pulling her closer. If the girl was a day past seventeen, Anne would eat her diamond bracelet. The young deb was dressed in white with delicate little bows and lacy edgings, while Anne looked every inch the woman in golden tulle that shimmered with her every move and exposed a sufficient amount of

Wicked Temptation

flesh to make men wonder what else they would see if her bodice dropped an inch lower. Lord Teesdales hand slid lower on Annes hip, a familiarity shed grown accustomed to and one she was quite willing to deter with a condescending look or a sharp word. And your wife, Lord Teesdale, does she enjoy the waltz as much as you seem to? Anne glared at him until his hand slid back to her waist. Well, yes. She does, he sputtered. He cleared his throat and looked away as he led her through another turn. The waltz came to a beautiful end as the violin piece softly crescendoed with a final long draw of bow over string and a round of polite clapping. Lord Teesdale bowed and held out an arm, which she accepted. He led her to a small alcove where Clarissa Dunnaway, the countess, held court with Lord Ederline, the stodgy but rich curmudgeon whod recently married Lady Sarah Danvers. An inappropriate match if you asked Anne, but she knew many families who would have sold their daughters for a lesser catch than Ederline. Your Grace. Teesdale bowed and disappeared into the crowd. Ederline clasped her hands and pressed sloppy kisses to the back of her gloves. Lady Pelham, you look marvelous as always. Lady Sarah, is she not the most beautiful woman in the room? Anne clucked reprovingly. Louis, it is true then, your eyesight is failing, especially as your bride is the picture of London perfection. She feigned a sympathetic gaze. Lady Sarah, I fear you will be leading him about the house in short order and spooning him his porridge each morning. His loud bark of laughter had everyone smiling except Lady Sarah. She grimaced, her effort at a smile, with the hesitancy of a woman who did not know her husband very well. Anne was not so bashful. Clarissa, one of Annes closest acquaintances, covered her mouth to stifle the urge to giggle. Anne wanted to trust Clarissa, but Anne had never found a true friend in town, and preferred to keep her insecurities to herself. What few things she had said were enough to paint a clear picture for the countess. But better to remain aloof and uncaring then to be subject to gossip after inadvertently revealing her feelings to the wrong person. Anne was much more willing to give advice than to take it. She faced the charmingly innocent Lady Ederline. Lady Sarah, how was the tour of Italy? Oh it was ever so beautiful. I think I loved Venice most of all. Her childlike voice attested to her youth. Anne knew how rich Ederline was. Even she would have considered sleeping with the perverted old devil had he been a duke, but alas, Ederline was only a marquess. I hardly know how she noticed Venice, what with all the shopping, her husband groused.
7

Eliza Lloyd

You said you didnt mind, Lady Sarah said, peeping up at him with a winsome look so characteristic of the young and untried. I didnt, pet. Whatever makes you happy. He patted her hand. She clung to him like a morning glory on an old weathered house. Anne let the conversation proceed without her, providing the appropriate responses to the unimaginable delights of a honeymoon tour with a man forty years Lady Sarahs senior. That singular thought had her blinking away the cobwebs of imagination. Her gaze flitted around the room, looking for Randall or the young lady with whom he had danced, but she could find neither. Rand was noticeable in his absence. Anne had vowed she would never allow jealousy to color her world, but she could feel the evil tentacles of worry and doubt creep into her soul. She pushed her hand against her corseted waist, trying to assuage the rumble of anxiety deep in her being. Finally, she peeled herself away from the group, but only after listening to a horrid little on dit about a Shropshire baron with whom she had had an acquaintance, whod been caught with his pants down. Lady Sarah had gasped in shock while Clarissa had pinkened with embarrassment. Anne? Well, she wasnt surprised to hear the horny bastard had finally buggered one of his stableboys. A certain gleam in Ederlines eye suggested Louis dear little wife was going to be the surprise recipient of a clumsy poke at her back door sometime soon. Anne glided through the crowd, surreptitiously glancing through the mass of rainbow-bedecked peers for a sight of her husband. She held her head high. She was a duchess now and the fawning she thought shed enjoy had grown old quickly. The grass was as green as she had hoped, and the beds sumptuously more comfortable. The jewels adorning her neck would have satisfied most women. And the large, nearly vacant mansion in Grosvenor Square was a magnificent prize. The old duke had preferred the lesser Pelham House on Barkley Square, where she and Rand resided now. Anne was content in the townhome but she knew the day would come when Randall would have to take up all of his dutiesin Parliament, at his estates, along with a move to the more fashionable ducal home at Grosvenor Square. She didnt blame Randall for resisting the duties attendant to the Pelham duchy. Once in the harness, he would never be free. Yes, she lived in a dream world with a dashing young prince, but on this side of the fence, shed felt the depth of her deception. She wasnt really meant to be a duchess, but her desire to be more than shed been in Wales had driven her relentlessly along this path. She had told Rand of her desire to succeed. He hadnt laughed at her. She hadnt told him of her doubts about being worthy of such an exalted position. Your Grace, the handsome Earl of Redding said as he bowed perfunctorily, and Anne, keeping to her script, stopped and bestowed a lavish smile.

Wicked Temptation

Lord Redding, she crooned. Is it not the loveliest party? Edward, as Ive so oft reminded you. And it is lovely, only because you are here. She tipped her fan across the sleeve of his perfectly tailored jacket. I would wager you say that to all the ladies. Anne had a gift, one shed recognized early in her life. As a child, she could easily charm her fathera smile and a please, Papa could win her the simplest gifts. When she was of an age, shed used that allure for her benefit from the moment shed calculated what it could mean for her future. Youd be wrong. Will you be free for a dance later this evening? Edward had openly suggested an affair last month at a garden party in Hampstead. Forty-year-old women like her took those little compliments and tucked them away to bolster their confidence as they watched the younger, firmer girls sail into the limelight each Season. It was a little troubling that Redding so openly pursued her. She had been engaged to his father before he died, and knew quite well that the current Lord Redding, who was single, unattached and nearly perfect, was loaded and much more dashing then his paterfamilias. Even his dissolute reputation wasnt so off-putting that Anne was afraid of him. He might have been a challenge were she not already hopelessly entangled. Still, he wasnt a duke, nor was he likely to be. At the time, the elder Redding had been the most available peer and the one most likely to provide a lavish existence for a woman who could never have enough. Or had thought she would never have enough. For now, it was just a flirtation with Redding. Sensuality and sexuality were her burden and her salvation. With them, shed captured the most eligible bachelor, albeit widower, in London. With the elder Redding, it had been about marriage and the accompanying accoutrements. She had thought the same about her husband, until recently. With Randall, it had become about him. I would, except for the supper dance, which Ive promised to Randall. You know how possessive husbands can be. Have you seen the dear man? He seems to have disappeared right when I need him to stake me for Lord Talbots impromptu gambling in the card room. I do so hate to be unprepared. I could stake you, Im sure. Edward reached into his jacket, but his gaze did not leave Annes for a moment, waiting for her acknowledgement. The earls comment was nothing more than lewd, but she had grown accustomed to innuendo, in the way of London rakes and reprobates. He pulled out several bills and shoved them into her hand. She had done many things in her life, but so far, she had not cheated while married. She planned to keep it that way, even though her husband had given explicit approval for her to do so provided she was discreet. Hed also promised, with a vague sentiment that Anne hadnt understood, that he would not sleep with her again, once she took a lover. Anne would not give up her husband willingly, certainly not by pursuing the foolish course of infidelity.
9

Eliza Lloyd

You naughty, naughty man, Anne said, using the fan to tap his chest in rebuke. She shoved the money into his waistcoat pocket. She smiled nonetheless. Do excuse me. I believe I see him across the room. Where was Randall? She turned away from Redding and promptly forgot him. Already his eye wandered. Not that she blamed him. No one in London respected the marriage vow. Why should her husband be any different? Hadnt her vows skipped over the parts about for worse? But all ton marriages had that added caveat, Til an affair us do part. Prevention was the best medicine. She had to keep Randall interested. Simple Anne Porter of Wales had gone and done what she had promised never to doshed fallen in love with her husband. Randall had retreated to the balcony of Lady Fords ballroom, leaning against the thick marble balustrade while sipping at a warm brandy. The glass doors were open to the night breeze and he could see into the chaos of the lighted, crowded interior while he was invisible to anyone glancing in his direction. Soft, wispy breezes of air brushed against his collar, ruffling his air and soothing his temper. Only one woman held his attention. She had rich auburn hair, a vibrant fiery color that enflamed him to the point of madness. Hed been caught by the proverbial black widow. An experienced temptress who made him feel every inch the young, besotted fool, though side by side their age difference was appallingly unapparent. Anne looked like an eternally young goddess. A laughing couple blocked his view as they stepped onto the balcony. At the sight of him, they both smiled and muttered, Your Grace, before slipping down the steps into the lighted garden. He knew the chits father and doubted the couple would be a long time alone. Before he turned his head, a bustling matron swooped out the door and tracked them down the path, barely glancing in his direction. But in those few seconds of distraction, hed lost sight of the woman who had captured his undivided interest. Randall stepped into the ballroom and caught sight of her across the cavernous room, flirting with yet another man not her husbandno, it was only Lord Redding, the son of her former betrothed. He clenched his teeth. Warned by his friends, hed laughed at their concerns, only it wasnt so amusing now. She slipped into one of the hallways leading toward the Fords private roomsthe library, the family sitting room and the billiards room, where hed roundly beaten Ferdinand Ford earlier in the evening. Ferdie was a great competition and a gracious loser.

10

Wicked Temptation

Were she less obvious, he might be more forgiving. He should have known her natural attraction to men and mens intense reaction to her would only lead to trouble. Sooner than he had expected, but had he ever truly understood the woman? Hed asked only one thing when they marriedthat if she couldnt be faithful, shed at least be discreet. Well, hed asked hundreds of things of her, but that was the only request regarding her past and her reputation. Hed been under the illusion she was starting fresh with him. Hed also been under the illusion that he was enough man for her. Was she meeting one of the men shed been flirting with? What could she hope to gain? Shed already climbed over all the other women who had vied for the duchy. There was no place to go. She was at the top, unless she angled for the Prince of Wales. Shed attained all that shed set out to accomplish when shed gotten the maggoty idea upon her departure from Wales. I was born to be a duchess, shed said cheekily the first night hed bedded her. He shook his head in disgust, nearly muttering to himself as he reached the hallway. The library. Whoever she was meeting waited for her in the library. She slipped into the room without a glance for privacy. They were probably meeting in the private alcove where the windows overlooked the garden. There were cozy chairs for readingor anything else that came to mind. At the door, he glanced in both directions before turning the knob slowly. He followed her inside the room, locking the door quietly behind him. A single candle lighted the room, revealing that Anne had indeed disappeared into the alcove with her lover. He licked his fingers and snuffed the flame. Anne gasped over there in her hiding place. He heard the swish of her ruffled gown and then silence. Plush carpet silenced his tread as he strolled toward her hiding place. A pale light from the gardens shone into the library and gilded her yellow dress, revealing her in the corner of the room. What are you doing in here, Anne? Rand? She pressed her hand to her chest and released an audible sigh. You frightened me. Who were you expecting? No-no one. I was looking for you. Her fingers played at the diamond necklace about her neck. He clasped her slender, delicate hand, holding her a prisoner of his grasp. Were you? Ive never lied to you. Yet, he thought. Shed been open in every way until today, and now she acted skittish and suspicious. Anne was stunningly beautiful, so much so that, at times, he
11

Eliza Lloyd

could barely take his eyes from her. However, it was her reputation rather than her beauty that caused him worry now. He had not realized when he married her that the combination was openly inviting to unscrupulous men. Or that he would be near-puerile in his determination to ensure that no one ever touched his wife. Annes heart slowed from its frantic beating once she realized she was alone in the room with her husband. Shed worried that hed taken the girl to a private corner for who knows what kind of mischief, and her relief at seeing him nowalonewas like a weight lifted. She had accepted the eventual outcome of their relationship, that of embittered older wife and cheating younger husband. That possible future caused a sharp ache in her chest. Whatever it took, she must be the woman of his fantasies. Randall eyed her with his usual unreadable expression, except that his nostrils flared slightly and his eyelids lowered as he glanced at her daring dcolletage. Soit was unreasonably revealing. Shed always dressed with impropriety, or as much of it as she could get away with. The new title of duchess had made her a woman to emulate, as much as the ladies of the ton could get away with. Italian and French fashions were her forte. And since the moment of her betrothal, shed had two of the best designers in London. Her husbands leering gaze was worth every pound sterling. It was much the same as that of other men, only they hadnt paid the price for free access. Rand had given her everything she wanted and she was not one to stint when it came time for compensation. That she wanted him more than title or wealth was a secret shed never share. His glare turned into something she could understand. Her body flared with unnatural heat and her womb ached in readiness. Her skin tingled at his nearness. With one manly step, he hovered over her, dominant and strong. She reached for the lapels of his jacket and gripped the material between her fists. And now that Ive found you, she whispered. Randall had never turned her down. His mouth swooped down upon hers at the same time as one hand clutched at her neck, forcing her head to tilt back as he ravaged her lips. She opened her mouth, breathed in his scent and tasted the strong flavor of Scottish whiskey. No telltale sign of another amour. She smiled under the onslaught of his mouth. One hand drifted lower until she encountered the tight band of his trousers. She slipped her fingers inside. Hot, hard maleness met her hand. Randall groaned and sighed as she wrapped her fingers around the glorious length of his erection. Anne was, as always, pleased to take the sounds of his pleasure into her own body. Some of her former lovers could not or

12

Wicked Temptation

would not express themselves during the act. Her young husband confirmed and returned every physical sensation in sound and word. A sudden rattle at the door caused Anne to withdraw her hand. Randalls firm grip met hers, preventing any disruption in the play. Its locked. Dont stop, he whispered against her mouth. This wont take long. The hell it wont. Your cock gets nothing until Im pleasured. It had taken her years to understand the benefits of sex for a woman. It wasnt just a furtive coupling in the dark. It wasnt a poke to relieve an itch. Once she understood, she knew she wouldnt casually give up the pleasure, and she demanded lovers with control and imagination. Not that she always got that. Randall groaned and his hips bucked against her body. She loosened her grip and slid her hands to his ass, pulling him and his lengthy erection against her silk-covered stomach. Not tonight, Anne. Tonight, youre going to do what I want for a change. And in case youre wondering, no one else will be fucking you anytime soon. He gripped her arms and turned her toward the wall, lifting her hands over her head, pinning her with his body, shackling her wrists with one hand. Her body buzzed from the abrupt change and the contact with the cool hardness of the wood. His free hand worked at the yards of material encompassing her limbs. Cool, welcome air blew under her skirt and around her bare thighs, brushing against the moisture between her legs. She relaxed against the onslaught of touch and sensation and the anticipation of what was coming. She longed for him. Night or day, she yearned for his touch. His grasp loosened and he fumbled at his trousers, pulling away the placket and revealing bare skin, coarse hair and the heat of his cockall touching her bare bottom. As long as Anne had known him, hed refused wearing unmentionables. Shed never asked why, but it saved time now. Do you have any idea how much I want this? she asked. I have a good idea, but Im not ready to share you, Anne. Youre not going to waste this on anyone else until Ive had my fill, he said. His words expressed her sentimentsno one else should have him either. Even though theyd had the conversation about the inevitable decline of their sexual interest in each other, that didnt stop him from taking what he wanted now. The same thing she was perfectly willing to give. For now, it was glorious, all-consuming heat. Her body burned everywhere he touched. And where he hadnt touched, she lusted. She nearly choked as emotion welled in her throat. In the past, shed never had trouble identifying the next manthe one whod lift her further from poverty and want. The title really wasnt what mattered, only the means.
13

Eliza Lloyd

Now she could not imagine another man in her life. But only too easily could she see someone like hersomeone like she had been grasping and clawing her way into Randalls bed. Had she been so obvious, so willing? Had she really been so eager to leave her former life and family behind? Yes. And everything she had done that had led her to Randall had been worth it. Her emotions flared with a bit of jealous pique while her breasts ached with raw pleasure as they flattened and pressed against the hard wood. She rubbed against the wall, looking for some relief, and Randall laughed in her ear, refusing to provide the release she sought. No wonder you have every man in the room tight in his breeches. Youre in perpetual heat and they can all smell it on you. Tell me, what do you want, Anne? Are you wanting cock tonight? Yes. Dont make me wait, she panted. She nearly hated how much she wanted Rand. Nearly. If only she didnt get so much pleasure from the act. If only she werent so desperate for him. She shoved into his groin and moved provocatively, rubbing her bottom across the hard length of him. Do it, she whispered. Anne was usually the one in control, shed have Randall wound tight before she gave him relief. Vulnerable and needy, shed allowed herself to be backed into a corner while he took her at his leisure. If he would just damned well do it. Youre mine, Anne. Dont forget it. His words and breath tickled at her ear. She didnt care. She just wanted to feel the firm, hot slide of his thick erection between her legs. Deep inside her. Feel it touch the top of her sheath along with the brief moment of tenderness that spoke of invasion and taking. One strong hand slid across her upper thigh and searched between her legs. His fingers circled the small nub and Anne moaned. Spread your legs, he whispered in her ear. At the command, wet heat slid down her thigh, but she moved her legs. He pushed his knee in between, spreading her wider. The fingers between her legs tugged and rolled the nub in almost painful perfection. Randalls body slid close and lower. She felt his knees bend behind her. Suddenly, her arms were free and she braced them against the wall, intending to push away, but Randalls hands gripped her thighs, nearly lifting her as he shoved inside with one long, hard thrust upward. Anne bit her lips but moaned deep. She gripped at a wall sconce, trying to keep her balance. An unlit candle tumbled to the floor, landing with a dull thud. Harsh breathing at her ear caused a brief smile on her lips. He wanted her and he tried to control himself. Deep inside, she felt the thick intrusion and her body tested him with a long, slow squeeze.
14

Wicked Temptation

Not yet, he urged, but she did it again to remind him why he enjoyed her experienced body. Oh you heartless bitch, he ground out between clenched teeth. She smiled again, feeling as though she was back in control until he withdrew and slammed into her again. She loved the dominating play with him. He was strong and had expert control of his body. He pumped into her several times and she gave herself over to the rising pleasure that radiated from the nerves he rubbed with such skillful efficiency. Anne was lost to all but the feel of him inside and the guttural sounds radiating from his mouth and throat as he surged. Suddenly, his hand clamped over her mouth and he drove deep. Shh, he whispered. From the hallway Lady Ford ordered a footman to open the door. A key turned in the lock and Lady Ford swept in. Make sure this room stays open for the guests. And why arent the candles lit? Ill see to it, maam. Anne held her breath. Randall was very still behind her, but he did the most despicable thing when he realized they werent threatened. He started the slow, gentle rocking inside her that pushed her toward another pleasure peak. Anne wanted to squirm but didnt want to bring attention to their secret assignation. Even if it was just her husband. She bit at his hand but he kept his palm firmly over her mouth. The gentle thrusts made her crazy with longing. The two people in the room, so near, so close to discovering them, made her feel a particular vulnerability that excited her. A dim glow started in the room once the first candle was lit. Anne could see the light as it glistened against the back of Randalls hand. His breath was hot against her neck. And light the candelabra over the fireplace mantel as well. Impaled on his length and on her tiptoes, Anne felt the stirrings of orgasm. She could not come. Not now. Randall pushed deep and held. His free hand slowly moved from her thigh and reached under her arm, cupping her silk- and lace-covered breast. She shook her head, fearful any rustling of her dress would expose them. In response, he licked and nipped at her ear. He inched his hand inside her dcolletage and freed one of her breasts. It wasnt difficult. The swath of material covering her bosom barely covered her nipples. As his hand kneaded and caressed her flesh, she leaned her head back on his shoulder. His lips kissed at her temple. She only had to relax a little. Just give in to him and the pleasure would be hers. The muted sound of the footman was only an afterthought to her pleasure. Randall still kept his head. Anne nearly giggled at her own thought. At last, the steps retreated

15

Eliza Lloyd

and the door shut. The room was well lit and they were probably visible to anyone walking in the garden. We have to stop, she whispered. Her body was wound tight, but she could stop knowing that Randall was in the same precarious needful position. Youve got to be joking. I couldnt stop if Lady Ford and the entire crowd in the ballroom were standing beside me watching, he panted. Even his words sounded strained. She was almost glad he would continue, relieved that he had made the decision she couldnt quite bring her body to obey. He turned her slightly. His lovely cock slid from her body. Disappointment washed over her. She wanted to stamp her foot and protest the interruption. The heavy weight of his hand pushed her downward, to her knees. A footstool scraped across the floor, stopping in front of her. Randall knelt behind her and gently pushed her forward. Get that damned skirt out of my way. Anne hurriedly lifted the expanse of material over her bum. She lay over the stool, her ass open to the air and Randalls gaze on one side, her breasts plump and exposed over the other, but at least she couldnt be seen from the garden as she was positioned so near the floor. For a moment, his hands were braced against the footstool on either side of her shoulders. His cock brushed against her ass and then, with renewed determination, he pushed into her again, causing her quim to jump with sensation at the complete filling. He felt wider and longer. She felt dominated as he started the hard thrusts and perfect rhythm that was more difficult and awkward while standing. The stool scratched against the floor with each thrust. He groaned aloud. Her body clenched as he pushed deep. One of his hands grabbed a handful of her breast and kneaded while his thrusts grew wilder and his breathing ratcheted to an alarming rhythm. Rand. Oh Rand. The extremely pleasant and much-anticipated release started low in her body, pushing and pulsing upward in a sharp ascent before the first contraction gripped her and anchored his cock deep inside, clasping her husbands beautiful, satisfying erection. He hadnt come. Still stiff and unmoving behind her, he whispered in her ear, Remember, you are mine. He removed his cock, swept her skirts away, and then with a few strokes of his hand against the length of his erection, spilled all over her bum. With one final groan, he leaned back on his haunches. Anne looked over her shoulder. What a mess. Youre my mess. I wont have you flirting and tempting anyone else. He brushed his hand over her bottom, spreading the cum over her ass and thighs until it coated nearly every square inch of her exposed skin.

16

Wicked Temptation

She glanced over her shoulder to see his confused expression, followed by a determined look directly into her gaze. Anne, you are my wife and a duchess. Its time you start acting like it. I wont have you flirting with every man who wants you.

17

Eliza Lloyd

Chapter Two
Randall stared at his duchess, bent over the footstool. A finer ass he had never seen. She braced her hands against the stool and pushed upward. He reached for her waist and pulled her back toward him. Her skirts billowed lower. She struggled with her bodice and, being the gentleman he was, he offered assistance. He slid both hands around her breastsone free and barethe other, still trapped by her layers of garments, he plucked free with a deft move. He propped his chin on the top of her head, further damaging her coiffure, but the position gave him a lovely view of the spherical globes and lush valley between as he held her in his hands. Gad, if only I had time. I think I would lie down beside you and suckle these all night. We are going to be missed. And its going to take me forever to set myself to rights. Do you know what I wish, right now? You just told me. No. Id like for these breasts to be full of milk. Id like to see you naked, hear a babys cry and see them let that stream of milk flow. Just for me. Rand supposed it was a mean thing to say. She had never said why she didnt have children. Shed been married to the Baron Alsept for seven years with no offspring. Im no fertile virgin fresh from the farm, Rand. Therell be no milking. She lightly slapped at his hands and, with regret, he let loose of her breasts. He reached for the placket of his trousers and fastened the buttons before pushing himself up from the floor. Once Anne had covered herself, he reached for her hand and lifted her to her feet. Her cheeks were stained pink with heat and lust. Her lush, pouty mouth even more swollen and red than usual. Her hair was a little loose and her skirts wrinkled. All in all, she looked thoroughly fucked. He held back a smile, which Anne would not appreciate given the circumstances, but everyone in the ballroom would know who had fucked her. He wouldnt tolerate any other speculation, not after their short marriage, and if it meant she was a little less put together than she liked, so be it. She brushed at her skirts and turned to face him. Her fingers flitted through her hair, trying to ascertain the extent of her disarray. Annes smile was genuine in almost every circumstance, even now when she had every right to be miffed at his manhandling. Yet she was radiant. He hoped it was from happiness.

18

Wicked Temptation

Part of her appeal was her sexualityany male breathing would recognize itbut she had some deeper vitality that hinted of determination, ingenuity and the will to succeed. And she had it in spades. She had become the duchess shed always dreamed. He held out an arm. Shall we? She slipped her hand into the crook of his arm and they headed toward the door. I really ought to go home. I must look a fright. You look fine. He leaned close and sniffed at her. And you smell like every mans dream. Says the man with the perfectly starched cravat. They stepped into the hallway, arm in arm. Everyone is going to know what weve been doing. The brightly lit, noisy ballroom was a few steps away. That is my fondest hope. Lud, Rand. Why dont I just wear a sign? Yes, my husband just swived me in the library. Then no one would have to speculate. As they stepped into the crowded room, he leaned toward her, once again distracted by the display of her breasts. You cant tell me you didnt enjoy it. Your Graces, a footman murmured as he bowed. Anne tilted her head in acknowledgement. I need a bath, as much from that, she whispered, as from the leers of yon gaggling geese. She tilted her head toward a group of young bucks all smiling appreciatively as the duke and his vixen duchess passed. Really, I think you ought to allow my swift departure before I am made a laughingstock. All leers are well earned, Your Grace, Rand said. You might try an English dressmaker from Northants for next years wardrobe. I suspect shed know how to cover you for substantially less money. And if you want my opinion, there is nothing you can do to harm your reputation at this point. Black widow. Cunning. Ambitious. Without morals or scruples. Those were some of the kinder epithets hed heard. Prior to their marriage, hed had only one dominant emotionhed lusted after her. Like hed lusted for no other woman. Now? Well now it was hard to think of her as anything but his wife, with all the privileges that went with that exalted title. Anne stopped in her tracks. The look of utter horror on her face stabbed through Rands heart, even though hed meant it partly in jest. Do they laugh at me? This isnt the place for such a discussion. He placed his free hand over the top of hers to prevent a sudden departure. Anne, you and I both know the truth. But everyone in this room is going to think I tamed you. That I am man enough to satisfy you, is that clear? No one will have an excuse or a reason to doubt your reputation now that youre my duchess, and I will do my damndest to prove it.

19

Eliza Lloyd

The truth was, Anne VanLandingham was an unknown quantity. At the last minute, hed snatched her from an aged earl whod promised her the moon. Rand had lusted after her for six months, but at the time, he was still in mourning from the loss of his first wife and would do nothing overt out of respect for his childrens mother. Her betrothal to the earl had surprised no one. What surprised them was when three weeks later, she broke that engagement. The ton was aghast when she announced her engagement to the Duke of Pelham instead, only a day after his mourning had ended. Hed been fucking her for the two weeks prior, but only after hed asked her to marry him. And shed had the written contracts in hand. Needless to say, the earls family was in rapture over the stunning development only the earl shed tears. Since then, shocking news like that seemed to follow him, or Anne to be more precise, and a known tryst with his wife at the Fords ball seemed to pale in comparison to her other reported exploits. Do you regret marrying me? He glanced down at her, giving her and the crowd his best impression of marital bliss. He kissed her forehead. A duke could do that. Weve had this discussion before. I knew what I was getting, and so far, I havent regretted a moment. His regret would come at some point in the future, when her very nature would overcome her survivalist instincts. Insatiable Anne Porter would, at some point, take another lover. And he was not sure he was mature enough to accept the obvious truth. His wife was a temptation few men could resist.

*****
Anne had promised her husband further delights upon his return, if only hed call the carriage and allow her graceful departure. Rand had kept her at his side, his hand secure at her waist, a full thirty minutes before finally agreeing. Shed pretended that nothing was amiss, but she saw the secretive glances at her hair and the raised brows at who-knew-what other dreadful exposure. Was there a stain on her dress? A torn seam? And male that he was, Rand had stopped at every gathering that included more than one man, regardless of age, to discuss the weather. He had looked utterly composed and perfectly content that the entire gathering knew. Flush and replete, she felt, and no doubt looked, every inch the harlot. She had the temporary assurance that she still held his interest, as he occasionally whispered in her ear that he was going to fuck her properly when he returned home, and further, he would not care if she was sleeping. Anne made it clear, with a welltimed glance, that she would be awakeand waiting. Rand had escorted her to the carriage but had stayed behind, presumably to boast of his prowess, or play cardswhile boasting of his prowess.

20

Wicked Temptation

When she finally reached home, Anne called for a bath and two footmen jumped to do her bidding. Her room, which was next door to the dukes, was being refurbished, so she and her armoires and hat boxes and shoes and gewgaws had all been stored in Randalls room, it being the closest, largest and least inconvenient. Anne glanced about the room, knowing she would hate to be back in her own bed, sleeping alone again, after this past month. At some point in the future, when they moved to the Grosvenor Square mansion, it would feel utterly desolate after the coziness of Pelham House. Her ladys maid, Carrie Black, started with the confining buttons and ribbons and had her free of the tight clothing by the time the footman knocked at the door and carried in the hot water. Carrie had been with her since the year after the baron had died. She always would be, as far as Anne was concerned, for she valued the constancy Carrie provided. It would have suited Annes status as duchess to find a respectable young girl to replace the plain-spoken and aging Carrie, but they had been together for a very long time and it would be difficult to trust anyone else. Yer hairs a fright, Your Grace. Has the wind picked up? Elmer said thered be rain tonight, for sure. A little, not much, she said. Anne closed her eyes as her hair came down, tumbling silkily over her shoulders and back. Gooseflesh popped along her skin. Carrie held the bristle brush and combed it out, starting at the ends. When she got to the top of her head, Anne felt drowsy and ready to climb into bed, only she must have a bath. She despised going to bed unclean. She despised anything unclean, from her husband to her home, a needful and beneficial habit learned while growing up in the home of a coal miner. Would you like it braided, mum? No, just tie it with a ribbon. That complete, Anne stood and removed her robe as she strolled toward the steaming copper tub. The children were fussy all evening, Carrie said. Anne stepped into the water and lowered her body, covered to her chin in clean, sudsy warmth. She glanced over her shoulder where Carrie stacked towels and straightened her soaps and bottles. Daniels teeth? she asked. The youngest had recently turned two and had trouble with every tooth, had since he was six months oldso the governess had said. Yes, poor wee thing, droolin and slobberin and not sleepin at all well. But it was all the children tonight, mum. Sarah was cryin for her mam. Joseph was cryin because the others were cryinit was a little chorus of misery. But theyre sleeping now? She would check on them before bed. Their mother had died giving birth to Daniel. Rand never talked about her. He had a hard time knowing what to do with the children and expected the governess to have the answers.

21

Eliza Lloyd

Ella was still up with them an hour ago. I had better go up then. Anne scrubbed the round sponge over her arms and shoulders. She resoaped and then worked down her body to her toes. Normally, she enjoyed a leisurely bath, but she didnt like for the children to be distressed. True, they werent hers, but they were Randalls and that was all that mattered. Motherly instincts came naturally to many women. In Anne, they had run rampant since her marriage, but she thought it best for all if she maintained a distant yet polite interest in the childrens well-being. She thought she could smother them with love, but love wasnt able to feed a person or put shoes on their feet. It would be best if she taught them independence and determination, especially Sarah. Of all the children, she would have the most difficult road, if such a thing existed for the child of a duke. But Anne would see that Randalls daughter had the best education and world travel before she was bound in matrimony. And as for that, Sarah would not be tied just for blood or title. She wanted Sarah to have options. Within a few minutes, she had stepped from the bath and Carrie had dried her with a lush, warm towel and assisted her into a lacy night rail and a soft robe. Anne tied the robe and tucked her feet into a pair of slippers near the tub. Ill turn down the bed, mum. Thank you, Carrie. Dont wait up. I want to make sure the children are sleeping soundly. The children were beautiful. She could see Rand in each of them, especially the vivid greenness of their eyes and the dark, slashing eyebrows they used like weapons to obtain their way in every little thing, from bedtime stories to avoiding food they did not like. She didnt care that they hadnt taken to her. She was, after all, only their stepmother, and one who had entered their lives at a most difficult time. Joseph and Sarah knew she wasnt their mother and treated her with polite indifference, even though she tried to spend some part of every day with them. Daniel accepted her loving gestures because he was an affectionate child, not because he thought she was his mother. Anne entered the hallway and took the stairs to the third-floor nursery. Mid-stairs, she turned and hurried back to her room looking for a box. The private box of things shed brought from Wales. It had a lock of her mothers hair, a pressed flower from the boy whod first kissed her, some notes from childhood friends, her wedding announcement to the baron. And a cloth doll shed had as a child. A gift from her grandmother, now long gone. Carrie had left the room, so Anne started moving boxes and opening trunks, trying to remember where her few private things were. At last, in the bottom of a travel trunk, under a homemade quilt, she found the treasure. The doll was limp, with black button

22

Wicked Temptation

eyes and skin made of a dimity bed covercrude and bumpy but loveable. She held it to her nose and sniffed delicatelyand a little musty smelling. Anne made her way to the nursery. She could hear the fussy whimpers before she opened the door, but she slipped in quietly in order to keep what peace Ella had achieved. Ella smiled at her as she rocked in the chair with Sarah, who seemed intent on getting out of her governesss arms. The sagginess around Ellas eyes spoke of weariness and age. Anne walked to the crib where Daniel lay, his bottom in the air and his thumb in his mouth, asleep but restless. A wet patch on the cloth sheet collected the drool. She reached out, gripped the edge of blanket and dabbed at the corners of his mouth and chin. He slept on, ignoring her efforts to comfort him. Joseph was asleep on his back, sweat on his brow and his covers kicked away. Only Sarah remained awake. Ella had fought a battle tonight. Let me take her, Anne whispered. Mama. Want Mama, Sarah said. Her small voice held no demand or tantrum. She didnt know for whom she askedher need was for comfort and a mothers love. Come to Mama, she said as she lifted the dead weight of the child from Ellas lap. They traded places. Ella quietly moved away to straighten the room and check on the sleeping children again. Mama. Look what Mama brought you. As she waved the doll in front of Sarahs face, the childs eyes sagged and then popped open. She grabbed the doll and held it with one arm about its fragile neck, still squirming until she found a comfortable position, with her head on Annes breast. Sarahs thumb went to her mouth and she started to suckle. Anne started a gentle rocking. She remembered a Welsh song shed heard as a child and sang quietly, humming in places where she forgot the words. Anne felt along Sarahs neck. She was hot too, the air in the room stifling from the heat of the day. Ella, can you open a window for a bit? Anne asked in a singsongy voice that didnt disturb Sarah. The eyes sagged and blinked open again, the little one fighting to stay awake. Mama, she said, the words indistinct against her wet thumb. The sucking slowed and then her eyes drifted shut again, this time staying closed as Anne resumed the childrens ditty. She brushed the damp tendrils back from Sarahs face and blew lightly over her skin to keep her cool. For a moment, an infinitesimal moment, Anne regretted the children shed gone without in order to facilitate her climb from the bottom. Shed calculated her ability to achieve her aims with the burden of children and without. True, nature had played a cruel hand in her decision, but it had been up to her not to lament her loss. It wasnt difficult to imagine the barons home in Wales filled to the brim with noisy and sickly children. The oldest son would have fared well. The younger sons and the

23

Eliza Lloyd

daughters? Well, shed lived through that, and knew her children would not suffer for a poorly made choice. She knew she could not have had both anyway. And privately, it was what she told herself rather than dwell on the pain of her miscarriages. Anne often wondered if her path would have been different with children of her own. Would she have been satisfied living a singularly unimportant life but knowing the joy of motherhood? She closed her eyes to the sudden pain at her heart. Sarah felt so right in her arms. How did one know if they were making the right decisions after all?

*****
If confusion and doubt had a name, it would be Anne VanLandingham ne Porter. Randall glanced at his bed. His wife wasnt in it. He didnt like feelingor thinking. And that was all hed done since Anne had entered his life. In the past, his feelings had been limited to feeling good after several drinks, feeling successful after a win at Newmarket, feeling satiated after a good fuck. She had him spinning. She had him on the defensive. She had him by the balls. Victoria, his first wife, was a cloying mix of deference and spinelessness, not that he meant it in a bad wayshe was a good person. The perfect spouse for a ton marriage and the birthing of his heirs. Her blood was as blue, her lineage as pure as his. But then she had to go and die, leaving him open to all sorts of bad decisions and indirection. For better or worse, Anne was his wife now. Someone should have talked him out of marrying her. She would have been a great mistress. But even then she had held all the cards, dangling her sexuality and the implied promise of infinite pleasure if only he would marry her. And she had told him she was not interested in him. She didnt say those things exactly, but he saw it in her direct look and manner. She had scrutinized him from head to boot and then smiled as if she had some sensual womanly knowledge she would never share. It only fed his insane need to have her. His cock had won out. And he had not gone a day since without a thorough fuck, unless she had her courses, when she would provide the most incredible alternatives to traditional intercourse. A cunt was all right for the basics, but Anne could use more body parts in more enticing ways then hed known was possible. Morning, noon or night, if he had an erection, she was accommodating. Who could ask for more? Well, hell, the one thing he would ask for, if he could, is that the entire ton did not know she had serviced several lords leading up to him. He wondered how many as he jerked at his cravat. Not that he hadnt heard men bragging prior to his betrothalhis

24

Wicked Temptation

club was rife with gossip and boastingbut shed never confirmed or denied. Perhaps that was part of the mystery surrounding her. Winslow had standing orders not to wait up past two. Rand much preferred his valet in top form in the morning, when Rand was not. And Winslow always knew when he had woman trouble. Rand wasnt up for his advice tonight. Annes clothes were tossed over the back of his chair. Feminine undergarments and used bathwater and assorted other trappings were strewn about his room. Damn, he hoped the renovations took until Christmas. He liked having her underfoot. If only he knew where she was at the moment. He stripped, walked to the washbasin and poured water from the pitcher. He sloshed it over his face, through his hair and over his upper body and then swiped away the moisture with a clean towel. He dropped the towel to the floor and used the pitcher to wash his privatesone of Annes damned rules, which, to tell the truth, made their extracurricular activities much more palpable. Where was she? His mind had already trailed along the path of foreplay and fucking. He wanted her now. And like the evil sorceress she was, she slipped into his bedroom, easing the door shut behind her. Rand, I didnt know you were home. Where have you been? In the nursery. The children were still fussing when I arrived. Ella needed a break. He nodded. You dont need to bother yourself. Let the governess handle them. Rand, they You are not their mother. Anne smiled, one of those mysterious offerings that he had trouble deciphering. Now come here. We have some unfinished business. Im tired. Weve had a long day. Rand reacted rather primitively, not used to being denied and so suddenly. He did not like to think of his well running dry, and in light of his worries tonight, he thought it was rather suspicious. Anne, you know what I want. The smile again. And I dont. Youre upset. What have I done? She sighed but turned away and strolled toward the bed, dropping her robe. She removed her rail and climbed into the prepared beddingnaked and enticing, even though shed just said no. Come to bed. Rand hesitated, sensing a trap or a trick or womanly wiles at work, but his feet moved without a command from him. His cock strained upward, as if he hadnt had

25

Eliza Lloyd

her not five hours ago. Even if he wanted to say no, his body refused any sensible direction from his brain. She sprawled on her back, one leg dangling over the edge of the bed, the other drawn up. But her thighs were spread in welcome. He approached the bed, stepping between her legs. His gaze flitted over her bare, perfect body. A flat stomach, rounded hips and shapely thighs, along with firm, round breasts and the most exquisite dusky nipples. Lifting her leg, she pressed her foot against his stomach. He clutched the bony appendage and leaned to kiss the arch. You are so beautiful, Anne, he said. She raised her other foot and caressed the length of his cock. It jumped in response. Breathing became a little more difficult when he was near her and nothing could stop the blood pounding in his temple and groin when she was set upon enticing him. He shifted her legs up and over his shoulder as he knelt on the bed with just enough room to brace himself. He supported himself with one arm near her shoulderthe other, he slid under her bottom, lifting her for penetration. He looked his fill as the pearly pink valley between her legs opened and beckoned. Canting his hips, he slid deep, lifting her again and lodging fully inside of her. The soft moan from Anne matched the overwhelming sensual satisfaction building in his chest and heating his body. Her lovely brown eyes, somnolent and sensual, gazed at his arms. Her fingers followed, tracing a warm, tingling path to his shoulder. He used his shoulders and settled more firmly. He licked a path down the inside of her leg, stopping at the back of her knee. With a gentle thrust, he pulsed in and out with slow deliberation, watching the expression on Annes face change from patient expectation to determined longing. What do you want, Anne? I want cool in the summer and heat in the winter, she murmured, her neck arched along with her spine as she met him on his downstroke. Her breasts heaved and jiggled. With the palm of his hand, he covered the perfect flesh and then squeezed. Always what you cant have. Not always. She reached between her legs to stroke her swollen clitoris but he stopped her, holding her wrist and pinning her arm to the bed. Not yet, he said, not feeling any need to rush now that he was fully embedded in her body, while she was pinned beneath him and at his mercy. Soon, she crooned while she ground against his groin. Never had he seen a woman so thoroughly enraptured with the idea of intercourse. She gave herself over wholly, was never afraid of his most base requests, even smiling indulgently at his request for another woman. Shed thrown him a surprise when shed come back with the need to have a fourthmale of courseas three was entirely unfair. Hed tested her, shed pushed back and the subject never came up again, primarily

26

Wicked Temptation

because he was fearful of whom she might choose and how much she might enjoy the male banquet. Dangling such a temptation in front of Anne would have been a mistake. She would have taken him up on the offer and who knows where that would have led. He would still happily entertain the idea of a threesome, but hypocritical as he was, watching another man fuck his wife chafed his ego and mocked his ability to protect and satisfy. Now the idea of her with another man seemed as foreign as Napoleon on the throne of England. Anne was his to enjoy. Im feeling very horny tonight, he said. He surged into her, his hips slamming between her legs. Thats good, because Im feeling very needy. I will be vastly disappointed with only one orgasm. Then wed better get started. He set his palm against the plumpness of her mons and ground against the hidden nub, exerting just the right pressure to ensure her complete attention. She bit at her lower lip but watched and waited in earnest need. When he turned his hand, he slid two fingers along the folds of her labia and stroked in time with the very pleasant, very pleasurable thrusting. She eased her eyes shut. Rand could see the pleasure written in her slight smile and the rapid breathing in her chest. She squirmed against the pervasive buildup, wanting it but wanting to wait. I want to be naked in Hyde Park, she said. You do? During the fashionable hour? I think I might have an objection. No. Some night in early summer. When the moon is full. And I think Ill be the one lying in the grass, will I not? She giggled. Of course. Yes, I can see that. The moon will be shining and your breasts will be aglow, like golden sorcerers stones. I think I will insist that you scream when you peak. I would hate to go all that way and find I was lacking. I would never let that happen. Rand bent over her, kissing her for the first time since entering her. Open-mouthed, his tongue deep in her mouth, he tasted the sweetness that was her. His fingers continued the provocative rhythm between her legs while his thrusts increased in depth and speed. Had he not had other plans, he might have allowed his control to slip enough to release at the same time. With her, he never had to wonder if she had an orgasm. Delightfully responsive, the muscles of her sheath started the rhythmic contractions that reminded him to concentrate on something other than immediate release or hed lose his erection along with her devoted attention.

27

Eliza Lloyd

He slid his fingers through her hair to the back of her neck and grasped firmly, making her look up at him. He thrust deep. Her open mouth and her half-masted lids expressed every pleasure she was feeling. Her body tightened beneath him. Arching off the bed, she bucked her hips against him. Her legsstill draped over his shoulder tensed, clamping against his upper body. Sharp nails bit into the flesh at his shoulder. He held deep until she moaned, throaty and sensual, and then relaxed in one great heave. Oh Rand. That was so good. He withdrew. His cock ached for fulfillment. He reached toward the nightstand and fumbled with the drawer, pulling out a bottle of rose-scented oil they kept for sexual play. He slathered the oil over his cock, enjoying the slippery feel of his fingers touching everything that he liked to have touched. He placed his hands at the back of her thighs and rocked her flexible body slightly forward, lifting her and opening her for further penetration. Rand. I cant. Hush. He searched until his palms were full of her ass cheeks. Spreading the rounded flesh, he speared forward until the tip of his cock met the tight sphincter of her ass. His cock swelled and hardened as his anticipation built. Beneath him, she squirmed, but her position was tight and compressed, his weight holding her firmly to the mattress. Pushing against the tight muscles, his already slickened cock felt the pinch of contraction at the first push inward. He gritted his teeth and clenched his eyes at the incredible rush of pleasure. Annes hands fell to her sides, sliding into the coverlet and fisting bunches of silken sheets between her fingers. She gulped air as if shed been running through the rustic wilds. Her petite bottom rested against his thighs. Anne moaned as, with one slow assault, he entered fully. Her ass contracted. Stay with me. Not yet. He rubbed his hands over her skin, down her legs, up her stomach, resting on her breasts. I cant, she whispered. Im coming again. Soon. He bent forward, cradling her lithe body in the hollow of his own. Slowly, he lowered one of her legs until it draped over his thigh and then the other. She planted her feet against the bed and proceeded to rock gently against the hard intrusion. Below him, her body spasmed. Anne wasnt like other women, she knew how to find her own pleasure. Rand stared at her as she gave herself over to the ultimate pleasure, no longer caring he was buried in her ass, only that she orgasm. Her fingers slid across her stomach and between her legs. He used his hand to guide hers through the swollen folds until she circled the round, sensitive nub, his thumb stroking
28

Wicked Temptation

alongside hers. With his middle finger, he slid into her body, filling and stimulating every pleasure point between her legs. She sucked in air and arched her back. He pushed deep. Contractions hit him hard and he felt cum gathering inside his hard balls. Just as Anne whimpered, he tensed and came, spilling deep inside her ass. For several moments, he hung his head, waiting for the dizzying pleasure to subside and his bones to re-form. His cock, already shrinking, slid from the tight confines of her ass with one last push. Anne lay sprawled on the bed, replete and quiet. Anne? She tapped the side of his thigh. Give me a minute, he said. He planted his shaking legs on the ground and returned to the basin, thoroughly washing his well-used manhood. Anne curled onto her side. He slipped in beside her, one arm secure under her pillow, the other around her waist and filled once again with one of those luscious breasts. It was a great way to greet Morpheus. Rand? she whispered. You need to spend more time with the children. They miss you. He stiffened at the scold, but now understood her earlier rebuff. I did not marry you to be my mother or the childrens mother. Go to sleep, Anne. He rolled away from her, truly angry for the first time in his marriage. The duke and his wife were not domestic. They had servants for such things. Anne was his. He did not intend to share her with the children. Hed enough of his first wifes abandonment because of her constant obsessing about motherhood. I understand why Im not good enough to be their mother. Im not going to take them from you. They need to know you. Thats all. Theres nothing I can do for them. The governess knows well how to tend to their needs. He glanced over his shoulder at Anne. Damned if he hadnt hurt her again. And this has nothing to do with you or your past. You dont seem the kind of woman who takes notice of babes. She smiled and cuddled in behind him, her chin on his shoulder. Her breasts were a scorching reminder why he had a hard time sharing her attention with anyone. I was a babe once. And I remember a father who loved me. And took time with me, she said. And I didnt. I turned out just fine. You werent given a choice and you adapted. And you did turn out fine. Very fine. One of her hands, still under the covers, squeezed his ass. But if there is an opportunity for something better for Josephand Sarah and Daniel when it is their timeI think your children will love you the more for it.

29

Eliza Lloyd

Her hands traveled over his body, stoking and fondling, soothing some of his agitation away. It surprised him that Anne was their advocate. As a child, he remembered excruciatingly long days of loneliness until he went off to boarding school. I dont think my grandfather spoke to me once until I was eighteen, he said. Dont do that to your children. He did not know what Anne wanted him to do with them. He also knew he did not want to be his grandfather.

30

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Three
Well, young man, are you ready? Yes, Papa. Joseph stood in the hallway emulating his fathers rigid stance. He wore a small tailored suit and a perfect little cravat. Anne wanted to weep at Jojos incandescent happiness to be with his father. Rand hadnt said a word to her this morning when he woke, and at breakfast, he acted as if nothing were amiss. He must have come to some terms with what she had said, though, since hed planned the outing without input from her. And where are you handsome gentlemen off to? She addressed Joseph, bending in front of him and brushing a few specks of nothing from his jacket. She knew they were going to Hyde Park. Carrie had mentioned it in passing as she braided Annes hair into a simple coronet. Papa is taking me riding in the park. Oh I wish I could go with you, Jojo. You cant. Papa said so. He did, did he? Well then, we mustnt disobey. She brushed his hair back. Jojo didnt flinch at her small gesture of affection. She cared for the children a great deal more than anyone could guess. Mr. Barry, see that the horses are brought around, Rand ordered. Annes gaze shot to Rand, who stood smiling. Horses? she asked, with emphasis on the plural nature of the beasts in question. Yes, my dear. Ive been remiss. It is time the boy learns to ride. Ride? Hes only four. I didnt mean for him to do anything dangerous. Leave it to Rand to take her request to the limit of reckless manhood, as if the only form of bonding with a persons child involved derring-do rather than personal attention. Hes too young. One is never too young to learn. He smiled, bowed crisply and then took his hat from the remaining footman. Good day, Lady Pelham. Say goodbye to your stepmother, Joseph. He, too, bowed in the most polite way, wrenching Annes heart again, though it did not come close to making her feel good about their riding. Good morning to you, Lady Pelham. She bit back her remonstration but looked pleadingly at her husband. Please be careful, she said as they departed.

31

Eliza Lloyd

Rand looked back and winked, all confidence and devilment without a hint of reproach. It is what you wanted. He stepped toward the door. Joseph shot around him and bounded down the stairs. Rand gripped her elbow and kissed her temple. She peered up at him and he gave her a more thorough kiss on the lips. He opened his mouth to say something but shut it again and then gave her the barest of smiles before departing. From the open door at the top of the steps, she watched them ready the horses, Rand telling Joseph this and that about cinches and stirrups and reins and saddles. Rand then lifted Joseph onto a mount nearly as large as his own. The little boy looked like a toy doll in the large saddle. Perhaps Rand could have one made that fit his son better. One of the footmen rode opposite, alleviating some of her worry, as he held a lead rope while Joseph was given the leather reins. She waved them off, praying Rand knew what he was doing. He did. He was rightshe was being too mother-hennish. To both of them.

*****
Anne gathered the mornings cards and notes, intending to reply to her correspondence while they were out. She planned to call on Clarissa Dunnaway later in the morning and then shop on Bond Street with Maureen Elgin, also a countess but widowed, and one who had nearly as humble of a beginning as she had. Her sitting room renovations were complete, but the racket from her bedroom was most distracting. Instead, she chose Rands library, near at hand and with everything she needed, including his very large leather chair that smelled deliciously of him. She squirmed in the seat, getting comfortable, and then breathed in the perfect scent of him. Foolish, young girl sentiments like love had never beat in her breast as strongly as they did with Randall. Was it a sign of her age that she had fallen so hopelessly for such a charming, beautiful man? Rand had his rough edges and she didnt care. He spoke directly sometimes, but the fact that he was riding with his son today proved that he did listen to her counsel, even when the topic was not really one on which she should advise or had any real experience. There, she thought, putting a flourish to the end of a note to Lady Ford. So I love him. It need not make their lives any different. And she neednt dwell on how to tell him such a mawkish thing. It just wasnt done. And she absolutely would not worry about Joseph. If his father did not know how to care for him, then certainly she did not. Still, thoughts of untold disasters flitted through her mind as she wrote effusive acceptances and apologetic declines to the invitations for upcoming entertainments.

32

Wicked Temptation

Near the bottom, the Earl of Reddings letter was easy to spot, with its red horsehead seal. She peeled back the molded emblem and unfolded a missive, wondering, with some humor, what risqu suggestion the man had this time. She thought their thrust and parry had a sense of bawdy flirtation and she had never minded such manly attention as long as it didnt cross the imaginary, and dangerously flexible, line of propriety she and Rand had set for each other. And Edward Chase was just the man to keep Rand slightly off balance. The neatly penned words were in the middle of the page. She glanced toward the bottom, but there was no signature. The lack of air felt crushing against her chest and she took in a deep breath. Her gaze crept back to the sinister wording. Meet me at Westminster. Today at four. I know you killed the Duke of Pelham. Anne laughed, one of those nervous reactions to unexpected news. Or positively ridiculous news. She placed her fingers against her lips, but they were shaking so badly she shoved her hand under her thigh. The hand holding the letter trembled and the words blurred. The Duke of Pelham. Rands grandfather? He had died two months after their marriage. Rands father, the previous heir, had died when Rand was only seven years old. Alford VanLandingham had died right here in this house. In this very room. She glanced toward the fireplace mantle. Anne could hear the sound of her labored breathing. She clenched her eyes shut. Her stomach lurched as the reminder of his death cracked open the memories of her carefully guarded secret. The sound of his skull cracking against the hearth brought a welling of dread to her stomach. She crumpled the letter in one hand and held the threatening words firmly, afraid to loosen her grip for a moment. The Earl of Redding? Why? He had everything a man could want. What did he know? Or what did he think he knew? If it was about justice, she would be visiting with Bow Street not receiving threatening missives or scheduling clandestine meetings. Redding was much too direct, as she had come to know him. It had to be some cruel joke. Anne refolded the letter into a perfect square and then stuffed the paper into the pocket of her day dress.
33

Eliza Lloyd

She had been with the duke when he had died, but no one knew that. No one. Not even Rand. What had happened was not her fault.

*****
A commotion in the hall shook her from her quiet and dread musing. Rand was home. She hurried to the foyer where, it seemed, she had just seen them off, though it had been two hours ago. Rand was carrying Joseph but lowered him to the floor where he stood, leaning against his fathers leg. Josephs trousers were torn and there was a wicked red gash along his forehead. My God, what happened? Anne hurtled toward Joseph, trying to control a sudden hysteria. She hated seeing her children hurt. Some damned fool let their dog loose, which then proceeded to attack every duck within barking distance. There were enough flying feathers to stuff every pillow at Carlton House. We happened along at precisely the wrong moment, and Jojos horse spooked. But he took it like a little man, didnt you? Jojo nodded. His face was pasty white. He bit at his lip and refused to look up. Rand smiled as if all was right with the world. He had no clue that four-year-old boys and four-year-old girls were much the same. They cried when they were hurt and they wanted to be petted and coddled until they didnt hurt anymore. Shed been the oldest of five children. Shed seen how her parents had soothed the hurts of her siblings and later, after her mother had died, she had often been the one who had to provide tender comfort. Jojo was doing his best to be the perfect little man in front of his father. Well, then, we best get you upstairs and into some proper clothing, and then you can tell me all about it. Rand, dear, luncheon will be in an hour. Rand tousled his sons hair before launching into a brisk walk toward the room she had just vacated. Anne took Josephs hand and he turned his face toward her, partially hidden amongst her skirts. When the library door had closed, she reached for Jojo and picked him up. Anne started up the stairs toward the nursery, but changed her mind and carried him to their room. His little body started to shudder and, as she stepped through the door, she could hear soft crying. With one hand, she dipped a cloth towel in the basin pitcher and wrung the excess water free. She didnt say a word as she found a comfortable chair. Joseph squirmed and buried his head in her chest and wailed. The wet of his tears had already soaked through her gown.
34

Wicked Temptation

She brushed the cloth over his temple and then compressed it firmly against the wound. The bleeding wasnt bad, but the wound was viciously red and angry-looking. There now. You were such a brave boy to ride that big old horse. I am sure you made your papa proud. She reached for the cuff of his trousers and turned the material upward, revealing a similar abrasion on his knee that still bled. Cleaning the wound took no time, and when she was done, Jojo had settled into sniffles that shook his body as he tried to control the tears once again. Ill bet your papa didnt tell you about the time he rode his first horse. She didnt think a small lie would hurt, especially if it would heal his spirit. He was six years old and the horse he rode, well, one could hardly call it a horse, more like a ponynot nearly as big as the horse you rode. What was the ponys name? he asked, brushing his sleeve against his runny nose. He heaved a deep breath again, growing steadier. His name? Well, her name was Dolly. An ugly old brown Shetland pony and as tame as a baby kitten. Your papa didnt even get to hold the reins. His papa wouldnt let him ride by himself. And then just when your papa thought he knew what he was doing, the horse, I mean pony, stopped, and off your papa went. Right on his bottom. Did he cry? Did he cry! I dont think a boy in all of Hertfordshire has ever cried so much. I think his papa might have even sent him to his room without supper. Anne applied additional tender ministrations, but didnt offer salve or bandages. He was still a boy, and in an hour would be as proud of his wounds as if hed fought Napoleon himself. When Jojo turned six or seven or eight, there would be time enough to tell him to buck up, to be a man, but not now. Not when he was so young and tender and in need of a parents love. Overwhelming emotion washed over her again, as it had last night when shed held Sarah. She kissed the top of his head. Are you all better now? He didnt move. Are you going to be my mama now? Tears filled Annes eyes. Her throat ached. Oh Joseph, that would make me very happy, if I were. Suddenly, he was off her lap and heading toward the door, his trousers leg still rolled up to his knee. As he struggled with the knob, he looked back at her. I have to tell Papa that I can ride tomorrow. Alone in the room, Anne was thankful for the reprieve of Josephs calamity, but now the sudden emptiness only added intense emotion to her already-frayed nerves. She would have to confront the earl in his home or she would have to go to Westminster and meet him. But she couldnt go to the home of a single man, not without a very good reason and an escort. That would only conjure other wildly
35

Eliza Lloyd

ridiculous stories about her. Maybe that is what he wanted. It seemed so sordid and dishonest. Why couldnt he have questioned her outright? She could have explained. She pushed out of the chair and strode to the window. Damn, why did she have to explain at all? Everyone believed it was an accident.

*****
Anne had waited over an hour at the Westminster Abbey, partially hidden in the Poets Corner in the south transept. Had anyone wanted to find her, they would have, but Redding didnt show up. She could pretend interest in only so many inscriptions. Redding was easy to seetall and conspicuous. He was noticeable. She hadnt missed him. Even though she held the note with Reddings seal, she still could not imagine why he would do such a thing. If he had What was his game? Anne rubbed at her temple, which throbbed from the emotional upheaval of the day and now, the tedious, jolting return ride home in the carriage, swaying enough to make her feel ill from the rocking motion. Shed sent apologies around earlier to Clarissa Dunnaway and to the Countess of Elgin. She did not want to face them tonight uttering half lies. Clarissa especially would be curious. Nor did she want to face Redding in a crowed ballroom. For her, polite indifference only worked when she felt polite indifference. She hadnt perfected the art of contained emotion so common to other duchesses. She could not hide her disdain, not after today. Nor did she want to air the episode in front of Randall or a ballroom full of scandalloving gossips. Would he understand her deception? He might have, had she wished to tell him of her own accord, but to confess to Reddings attempt toattempt to coerce, to blackmail She didnt know. The carriage came to a sudden halt. Air rushed in as the door opened and the footman assisted her, holding her hand as she descended. She would tell Rand she was ill, that she could not attend tonights gathering at the Langtons. Just when shed reached all of her goalsshed become a duchess with access to enough money to float an armadashe was faced with the worst dilemma of her life. But it was the surprising rewards she could not give upa husband she desperately loved, the children. Her life was perfect and now she was going to lose it all. The trappings would remain. The outer importance of being a duchess would never go away. In her room, she tugged at her gloves, dropping them to the floor. She didnt bother

36

Wicked Temptation

ringing for her maidservant. At the end of the bed, she sat and then fell backward, her body feeling boneless and weak. The large wooden posts at the end of the bed were barren of lace or curtain. She stared at the poles until they became blurry, vague shapes as tears streamed from her eyes and down the sides of her face. Shed gone to Westminster with the hope of setting the matter to rest, not to find herself in a more emotional, unsettled state. How was she going to tell Rand? Carrie shook her awake sometime later. Do you want to dress for the Langtons? No, Carrie. Just unfasten me and leave me alone. Anne struggled to sit up and finally got to her feet, turning her back to Carrie so she could unfasten the multiple bindings that kept her firmly supported in her clothing. Would you like a bath? No, please. Just go. Carries fingers touched her forehead. Anne turned away. Are you ill? Do you want me to fetch a doctor? Or the duke? No. Carrie grasped the dress, holding it over one arm. Her brow furrowed in worry. Ill have some tea sent up. That should help set you to rights. Still in her chemise, Anne stretched out on the bed again and toed off her shoes. They landed with a dull thump. Carrie must have gone. She didnt hear anything except time as it was measured in the steady tick tock from the clock on the mantel. Shed thought she had all the time in the world with Randall. The rest of her life. Had she continued with the polite business arrangement that her marriage should have been, she would have no qualms about telling Rand the details. Heres what happened, Rand, now be a good boy and fuck me senseless. There was no denying shed married him with a sense of purpose. Since the baron had died, even as a child, shed known how to get what she wanted. Rand had been clear that he was marrying her for pleasurehis immediate pleasurefor as long as he wanted her. Shed wholeheartedly agreed. Neither of them was unhappy with the arrangement. Only now she loved him. Now she would lose something. Everything. The familiar rattle of the tea tray did nothing to disturb her. Anne? Her husbands voice sounded from the door. Carrie says you are not well. Faint footsteps withdrew as the servant accompanying him left the room and closed the door behind him. He sat on the bed beside her and brushed his fingers tips over her temple. What is it?
37

Eliza Lloyd

Is anyone ever truly happy? I thought I was happy. Those finite moments of joy arent meant to last, are they? Theyre meant to tease us into lassitude, so that when life punches us, we really feel the blow. You have all that you have ever wanted. How can you not be happy? Its an illusion. I am still that girl from Wales. Its like I never left. Did something happen while you were out? Did someone say something to you? Anne stared at his handsome face, so full of concern. He was still caressing her skin and she placed her hand over the back of his. She turned and kissed the inside of his palm, pressing her lips long and hard against the solidity of his hand. What if Ive done something? Something of which Im ashamed? Anne, dont do this. You were very clear with me when we married. I know about those other men. Its not that I dont care, but I promised you it wouldnt come between us. And it hasnt. Truly, I dont think about it, so any guilt you feel now is very misplaced. Come now. Stop this maudlin behavior. It isnt like you. The words stuck in her throat. Her character and reputation would belie sentimental words like I love you. They werent in her vocabulary and Rand would never expect them, maybe he would never accept them. Maybe he was happy with their purely libidinous, bodily relationship with no emotional attachment other than the continual thrill of seeking mutual orgasm. Maybe that was all she needed now. Rolling to her back, she reached for him. His gaze flitted down and then met her pointed and suggestive stare. Anne, we must ready ourselves for the Langtons ball. Im not going. The white chemise already lay suggestively high across her thighs. Rand placed his hand underneath and slid it upward before reaching around and cupping her ass. She responded with a similar gesture, starting at his knee, feeling the smooth texture of doeskin and working her way toward the currently flaccid cock hidden behind the fall of his trousers. After a few strokes of her hand, Anne felt the familiar hard rise of his erection. With a sleepy look, Rand closed his eyes and then moaned at the sensual delight. When he opened his eyes, he swept her hand away and turned toward his boots, pulling them off quickly. His shirt followed and then he stood for a moment before he pushed his trousers down his muscled thighs and legs. Anne smelled the scent of his horse, but more, she smelled her man. Rands buttocks were hard rocks that flexed as he bent. When he turned back toward the bed, his prominent erection jutted out so beautifully. He braced his hands against the wooden top rail of the normally canopied bed. Every muscle bulged and flowed from his broad shoulders past his kneecaps.

38

Wicked Temptation

A light smattering of hair started at his chest, tapering into a fine line and then blossoming into a thatch of black curls around his cock. Anne licked at her lips as his erection held her complete attention. Dont make me wait, Rand said. She sat up, pulling her chemise to her waist and pulling him between her legs. Cupping his ass, she lowered her head and kissed the tip of his erection before tonguing him from tip to root and back again. He filled her mouth and then some. She suckled while using her tongue to tease the underside of his sensitive skin. She dug her fingernails into his ass. She needed him. Every inch. There was no reason to deny her physical lust, her craving, her obsession for him and his perfect form. She slid her hands over the hard planes of his stomach, settling on his rounded pectorals. Her newfound emotional enslavement made their play seem more important to her than it probably was. Sex was just sex, until the act came with the deep, heartwrenching doubts associated with one-sided love. As for Rand, each breath inward was followed by the harsh expulsion of rasping air and gritty-sounding lust. When he was in her arms, he wasnt thinking of anyone else. Experience had taught her how to prolong a mans complete attention while in coitus. If a mans home was his castle, then Annes fortress was within the walls of the bedroom. Here she was ruler. His arms came down from their grip on the bedframe. Cupping her face, he held her still for a moment while he thrust slowly into her mouthdelicately, deeplyso he didnt miss any of the soft, warm pleasure. Oh fuck. Oh fuck, Im going to come. He arched. Quick arousal was, at times, a precious gift. Lack of control with her confirmed his need to have her. She cupped his testes, tightening under the strain of his imminent ejaculation. One hand slipped between his legs. Slipping her middle finger upward, between his cheeks, she pushed into his tight, puckered anus. He clenched at her intrusion. She didnt have to go far to press forward along the sensitive perineum. She took his cock deep in her throat. With a final loud groan, he shoved farther, his hips bucking while cum coated the back of her throat. She took him allswallowing, licking at her lipsas he jerked with each of his ejaculations. The storm passed quickly. Rand sucked in a deep breath before opening his eyes. He knelt between her legs, sliding his arms about her waist. His head lay at her breast. Resting her cheek against the top of his head, she soothed her hands along his bare back. You are by far the best lover Ive ever had, Anne. You cant have known many then, she said, knowing it was a falsehood. The young VanLandingham, as a marquess and before his marriage, had sown a wide swath. At the time, only those women with a hymen were safe from him, as he had no
39

Eliza Lloyd

respect for age, marital status or class. As hed said, if they were willing, who was he to say no? If you knew the half of it, youd know what a compliment it was. Rand leaned back on his haunches, his stiff erection in momentary repose. Anne stared, tilting her head as she watched the magical retreat. Hell be back, Rand promised. In the meantime, spread your legs, madam. I have something for you that I think you will enjoy. Anne flushed with want and a new wash of dampness seeped between her legs. She fell back against the soft bedding, melting at the implication of his words. His strong hands gripped her knees and spread her. Her clitoris already throbbed, anxiously waiting and finely tuned to his obvious intent. Up her legs, his hands searched, pushing the chemise farther up. Take that off, he ordered. She was near boneless. Somehow she clutched the edges and wiggled enough to remove the garment completely. She met his searing gaze. How many orgasms would you like? His devilish smile promised untold delights, if she could remain conscious. He would have no mercy once he started his assaultthat she knew from experience. She was ready to sacrifice herself to la petite mort, especially since she was in the capable hands, and mouth, of her husband. Ill tell you when to stop. With supreme skill, acquired in all of those boudoirs and beds of his presumably less-enchanting lovers, Rand stroked along the flushed and sensitive skin with his fingers, working ever closer to the pulsing nub of her pleasure. Nothing mattered as he circled and teased. Her world focused on the wicked fingers stroking, deliberately arousing, but entirely too slow to suit her. She lifted one leg to the bed, opening for him, giving him whatever he wanted to take. Her back arched in spasms as she came ever closer to her release. And his tongue. Doing delicious, teasing things in secret places. Do hurry, she panted. I think I deserve something for my patience. He chuckled, lowered his mouth to the soft, sensitive folds of her labia, suckled her clitoris and brought her to a richly and well-deserved orgasm. She might have screamedshe could barely catch her breath as her body pulsed with the aftereffects. More? he asked, as if he were serving afternoon tea. Oh yes. She relaxed in blissful surrenderreplete, rosy, but always, always ready for more. Anne peered at Rand, now standing near the tea tray. He carried a pewter bowl back to the bed and propped it next to her head before he lifted and then turned her so she reclined fully on the bed, her back now propped against the numerous lush pillows stacked at the head.

40

Wicked Temptation

Her thighs were still spread. She knew from Rands look and semirigid cock that the sight of her had the desired effect on him. More, more, more, he said. You greedy little puss. He plucked a berry from the bowl and positioned it in her bellybutton before leaning over and nibbling at the fruit and the ticklish skin along her hipbone. She giggled. He held up a second fruit, a strawberry, and glanced at her cunt. Wider, he commanded. Anne wanted whatever it was he was going to do. Her breath felt heavy as her chest heaved. The achy muscles between her legs twitched. She spread her legs, lifting her knees, opening her pink sheath for his inspection. He slid his free hand down her leg, his finger stroked playfully as if he were just looking around. My, what a beautiful cunt you have. Said the big bad wolf. Fox. He bit the leafy top from the strawberry and threw it toward the tea tray. The berries are fresh. He took the largish berry and stuffed it, with an exaggerated flourish, in her sheath. He stared at the novelty, a smile playing about his lips. Annes eyes blurred for a moment. The intrusion wasnt enough to provide another release, but she was very aware of the possibilities. The light in his eye warned, and promised, that she would enjoy the fresh berries as much as he would. He brought her knees together slightly, satisfied as to her position. Then, grabbing a pillow, he tucked it under her ass, displaying her like the centerpiece of a grand feast for the gods. Anne watched in fascination. Rand seemed completely absorbed in his task. One ought to have fresh fruits whenever possible, dont you think? He tucked blueberries and then blackberries along the seams of her flesh, topping it all off with another strawberry. He slid his fingers through the dark curls covering her mons. With a slight frown, he leaned forward and ate the first berry. Did you know, in Arabia, the women shave? Shave? Well, they remove all of the excess hair on their bodies. Ive never seen it done. Only heard about it. Oh. He positioned himself between her legs, kissing the inside of her thighs and working downward again. Rand nibbled at the berries and at her flesh. Oh, she said again when he suckled on her clit. Such an unusual berry, that. He did it again. Anne was feeling languorous and loved. The smell of berries was thick in the air as

41

Eliza Lloyd

Rand used tongue and teeth to retrieve them from the nooks of her body. Only one left, he said. His tongue searched along the lubricated and sensitive opening to her body. With his hands, he pushed her thighs wider, set his open mouth over her and sucked the berry from her body. I will never be able to look at cooks glazed berry dish again without thinking of you. Havent you forgotten something? she asked. She didnt come all this way to be left out in the cold. I want my orgasm. So you do. Rand smiled before his face disappeared between her legs and lavished her with his tongue and mouth until her body tightened, soared and then hung in that immeasurably euphoric place of time and space, before crashing spasms consumed her body again.

*****
When we return home this summer, I think we need to build that dam in the lower valley. It would certainly reduce the flooding during the spring, and if we have another drought, we could irrigate the fields below the dam. Should you not be preparing for the Langtons ball? Anne ran her fingers through Randalls dark hair. His head lay on her stomach. He had two speeds after sexsleepy, or alert and solving the worlds problems. In this case, he plotted to increase farm production for his tenants at Bridgeton, his primary estate. You sure you want to miss it? he asked. Quite. If the Earl of Redding were in attendance, she did not want to face him. Then there is no reason for me attend either, he said. The Langtons have a very fine orchestra. And doesnt Lady Langton have one of the most extravagant buffets? Ive heard you rave about the delicacies. Anne had been to a garden party a month ago with all the trappings of the aristocracy, ostensibly for the marquess to show off the newest addition to his stable with stallions from Ireland. Rand, provoked, had had to make an appearance. Fortunately, this was only one of four balls the Langtons sponsored each Season. There would be another opportunity for Anne to experience the celebrated cuisine of three continents. The berries will tide me over. Anne laughed. Rand, with his hair mussed and his chest bare, appeared boyishly charming. Not at all like the aristocratic Duke of Pelham. It is much too early to sleep. Are you sure you wouldnt rather be gambling? What have you planned for the evening? Such a pleasant interlude had temporarily erased the niggling worry that beat in her chest. The sex was a temporary distraction. Without a doubt, she would be contacted again. Only this time, she needed to be prepared with a response.

42

Wicked Temptation

Rand placed a finger against her jaw and turned her head. Anne? Have I lost you? Yes. Oh no. No, Im sorry. I was woolgathering. But as for what I will do, I intend to pen a few letters. Ive been remiss in writing my father. Are you sure you dont want to go to Wales this summer? Yes, Im sure, she said determinedly. You are kind to ask though. You will need to return at some point. You cant hide forever. Duchesses dont hide. Are you really unhappy with your life, Anne? He glanced up at her and gripped her fingers, holding them over his heart. Is being a duchess not all that you expected? A bit of melancholy. That is all. Who would not be happy married to one of the richest peers in the kingdom? You forgot handsome. So I did, but I wouldnt want you to become too vain. Besides, all those silly girls at Lady Fords last night provided ample opportunity for my handsome peacock to show off his feathers. Peacock, is it? I thought you reserved that designation for dandies like Redding, what with his reds and pinks and yellows. He nearly blinds the unsuspecting. Redding is nothing compared to you. Nothing. Annes heart started a rapid tattoo. She pulled in a lungful of air, determined to slow the anxious beating. By the way, I did not have a pony named Polly. I said Dolly. It took me several questions to ascertain that Josephs stepmotherthat would be youhad blatantly lied to the lad. He glanced at her again, only this time there was a teasing sparkle in his eye. Anne hesitated, while using her finger to curve over the shape of his ear. He was distraught. He kissed her palm and went back to stroking the length of her fingers. Thank you. I know the riding jaunt was a failure. I would not have known what to do had he cried in front of me and the world. He did cry, didnt he? Yes, but not much. Once I told him how brave he was compared to his father, he was right as rain. Im sorry I painted you as such a sniveling little boy. I probably was. Never. He sighed, rolling to his back. Anne knew that the state of his childrens needs rarely crossed his mind, not when there were hired servants to provide for their education, feeding and care. I dont know what to do with the children. Maybe its cowardly, but I had hoped the governess would tend them until they were old enough

43

Eliza Lloyd

to tell me what they needed. I thought Victoria would take care of these things. After she died, well I understand. Last night, when I was upsetwhat I meant was that I dont require you to spend your time with the children. I know they can be a burden. And had I wanted a mother for them, I wouldnt have married She put a finger to his lips. Stop while you are ahead. Rand, they are part of you. And for that reason alone, I would care for them. She laughed lightly, thinking of their hesitancy and their oblique glances, trying to ascertain if she was friend or foe. However, Im proud to say that after several months, I am now occasionally commanded to hode dis and play now. Without a thought that they are ordering a duchess around on her knees, Ill have you know. Such unruly children you have. Hmm, youve never minded when I order you to hold this. He reached toward his cock. She laughed. Its all in the way you ask. And you might want to review your holdings. I can see that Sarah is going to be a very expensive daughter to launch. She has a diabolical sense about the value of jewelry, refusing to play with anything but diamonds and rubies. Then Ill marry her off early, and shell be someone elses financial worry. Well see. Maybe shed rather travel the world than be treated as someone elses burden. Ill break the neck of any man who dares to think so. She lowered her head and pressed a kiss to his lips, loving him just a bit more than she had a moment ago. Jojo called you his mama, he said, saving the best of the conversation for last. Her eyes filled with tears and two dollops streamed down her cheeks before she had a chance to control her reaction. I think youve won him over, madam.

44

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Four
Nothing had happened since day of the Langtons ball. What did Redding want? And if it was about blackmail, why had he used his own seal? Why? Blackmailers wouldnt want the world to know they were so duplicitous, but what else could it be? As the dawn of a second day since Reddings note arrived, a brilliant painting of reds, oranges and yellows flared across the skyline and poured into the bedroom. Anne was reminded of the sailors adage, and a biblical verse, if she remembered Papas teachings correctly, red sky in the morning, sailors take warning. She had silently fumed and worried since shed received the missive. She had heard nothing, only stewed in her own juices, marinating with anger, anxiety and murderous intent. When she saw Redding next, she was going to hurt him somehow. With words, certainly. Perhaps she would take one of Randalls pistols and shoot the black-hearted villain between the eyes, thus confirming for the earl, at the very last moment, that he was right. She was a murderess. Her ocean had gotten noticeably choppy, even to the point of green gills and rail clutching. Exhausted to the point of delirium, she finally trod the stairs to the top floor, peeked in on the children and then made her way back to her husbands bed, finding a warm and cozy spot curled up next to his back. Rand moaned in his sleep and turned toward her warmth, his hand sliding along her back and finding a hold on her buttock before pulling her firmly against his hard morning erection. Anne wiggled away and scooted downward, her lips finding the hot heat of his chest and kissing downward until she found the even hotter skin of his manhood. Was she completely at his mercy, that she could find such simple satisfaction and peace in making him happy? Or was that what became of women who allowed their feelings to overcome their logic? She opened her lips and sucked in the sensitive cap of his erection. His body stiffened underneath her assault. He arched into her mouth, moaning again as she took his length to the back of her throat. With the fullness of her lips, she caressed upward, suctioning against his skin, knowing where to stop and slide down again. She slipped her hand between his legs and cradled his testes, waiting for an indication that he would ejaculate. Rand was humming in his sleep. He probably dreamt of naked opera singers. Again Anne toyed with the tip of his cock, circling the ridged cap in long, slow
45

Eliza Lloyd

swipes of her tongue. His hips bucked again, searching. When he slid his hand into her hair and cupped the back of her head, guiding her over his fullness, Anne knew he was awake and alert. She swallowed him again. Rand groaned in conscious appreciation, mumbling a quiet yes as he urged her on. His only contribution to the act was the gentle pressure at the back of her head that kept her rhythm slow and steady. Beneath her hand, his balls tightened. He snagged her hair with his fingers and tried to pull her away but she resisted, feeling the strain against her skin. She closed her mouth over him and took him deep. He groaned loud and surged into her, each time the spurt of semen coating her mouth. She swallowed, keeping him deep in her throat. Finally, he relaxed beneath her and she allowed his waning erection to slip free. Anne, he whispered as his hand fell away from her hair. She licked a final time over the tip of his cock and then kissed his stomach, right below the perfect indention on his belly. She rested her check on his stomach and caressed lovingly over the prickly patch of hair and skin around the base of his manhood. Could she clutch him to her breast and never let go? Could she make him love her? No. He wasnt a man to be bound by a womans emotions. His duty, yes. His name, certainly. What was that thing that made a man commit body and soul to one woman? Would she ever find it? No. He was just a man. Either he would feel the same about her or he wouldnt. She would live with it either way, but in her heart, she would keep alive that precious fire of passion and love. Rand returned to his restful slumber while Anne stirred for the day, giving up on sleep. Many a night, she had survived on only a few hours rest. She had a standing request for a bath at nine, and Carrie busied herself in the next room while the water ran. The Countess of Dunnaway is waiting, she said as Anne walked into the alcove. Clarissa? Anne asked as she swiped at her eyes and then reached to loosen her hair. At this hour? She said shed wait, Your Grace. Did you offer her tea? Anne asked. She tested the soothing, warm water and then slipped the robe from her body before stepping into the tub. Again, she said shed wait for you. Anne refused to rush through her bath, however, once thoroughly satisfied with her ritual, she did allow her maid to dress her in a simple morning dress of green muslin with embroidered roses along the hem and bodice. The complementary green satin bow tied in the back and a pearl drop necklace was fastened around her throat to complete the ensemble. Her hair was swept upward in a simple style that was both elegant and cool.
46

Wicked Temptation

She hurried to meet her friend, whom she had kept waiting long enough. Anne? Where have you been? Clarissa uttered as the door opened. Anne entered the sitting room followed by two footmen carrying round, silver trays that included the tea set and more cakes, fruit, cheeses, breads and custards than a person needed prior to luncheon. Clarissa embraced her. Anne accepted the affection, confident of Clarissas sincerity but still a very, very long way from being entirely honest with her friend. Where have I been? Why, everywhere you are not, it seems. Anne waved her hand, indicating a comfortable chair reserved for special guests. You have not been out of this house for two days. I have it on the most trusted authority. At the Langtons, no one and I mean no one, but the Duke and Duchess of Pelham were in absentia. Are you ill? You must be ill. Nothing else accounts for such a shocking decision as to miss the Langtons ball. Clarissa sat on the edge of her chair, clearly expecting some outrageous revelation to explain this breach of decorum. Anne leaned forward conspiratorially and whispered, Well, that night, Rand and I were in a particularly rigorous session of lovemaking, and neither of us had the energy to move afterward. Barely able to move, in fact. Anne smiled in fond remembrance. They were, that much was true, but the motivations before and after had nothing to do with the bedding. Oh tosh. Even I know you cannot spend every waking moment having intercourse with the man. We do but try, Anne said, lifting the tea tray and starting to pour. Now tell me the truth. Why havent you been out? Is it not enough to say I wished to stay home and then do so? Dear Anne, it is your friend to whom you speak. You plan everything. Where to be, what to wear, what to saydays before any event takes place. You probably knew what you were going to say to me before you descended the staircase. You expect me to believe that, at the last moment, you failed to attend because you were occupied with your husband? Fucking can be such a tedious business, but I do take that business seriously. Anne held out the cup of tea, which Clarissa accepted and then she, quite out of character and with a shocking lack of aristocratic graces, leaned back in her chair to study Anne. Very disconcerting. Such language, she said, nibbling at a lemon biscuit. Instead of saying more, Anne sipped at her tea. Clarissa stared for a moment. Youre pregnant. Anne choked and then coughed indelicately as the tea spewed from her open mouth. She reached for a linen napkin, now speckled with dark splotches of said tea, and wiped at her lips.

47

Eliza Lloyd

You are gravely mistaken. And were I in better humor, I might even laugh. Really, you ought not say such ridiculous things to a woman my age. Clarissas brows shot up. Your age? Hundreds of women have children at your age. Thousands. If they live in the country, their candles go out at six and they dont know what sex is about, then yes they probably do. Darling, sex for a woman of my status is for pleasure not for procreation and early death. Anne sipped at her tea, unwilling to travel the road of regrets that had plagued her of late. She had promised never to live her life looking back or tormented by misgivings. Why those niggling thoughts should sneak up on her now, when she was already dodging impossible emotional setbacks, she couldnt say. I could name ten women within walking distance of this house whove birthed a child after the age of forty. They all live in Seven Dials, Im sure. You do say the most shocking things, Your Grace. Clarissa picked over the tray and found a biscuit, which she proceeded to dunk in her hot tea. Your cook makes the most mouthwatering shortbread. She dunked the rest of the cookie and opened her mouth. Dont think Ive forgotten for a minute what my question was. The cookie disappeared. How is the earl? Still impossible after all these years? Clarissa leaned forward again to impart her own emotional news. Truly, it has been the most wonderful few months. And I have you to thank. Me? What did I do? Oh I dont know. I think it is your casual assumption that you are due something more than a short We are all due something more than a short cock, Anne said. I was trying to say that we deserve something more than a furtive grope in the dark. Anne lifted her cup to toast her friend. Well said, Countess. And I shant ask for details, but I assumed by the ridiculous smile on your face since you returned from York that Michaels cock has been doing more than relaxing in his trousers. Much more, Clarissa said with the siren smile that spoke of a well-pleasured woman. Whatever the trouble, her friend had not allowed her relationship to dissolve into one of those tedious marriages that had as little care as an overgrown garden. Anne asked for all the details of the Langtons ball. Clarissa painted a dreamy picture, which Anne attributed to her romantic and imaginative nature. Her friend personified goodness and purity to the outside world. Clarissa poured herself a second cup of tea, rather a clear testament to their friendship, Anne thought. Now, I am done talking, she declared.
48

Wicked Temptation

I can have a footman show you to the door. Do you realize that you are sometimes very nearly, but not quite, a rude woman? A lovely compliment to be sure, since I practice every day to be very nearly rude. How do you do that? Always attempting to deflect the issue at hand? Someday the overconfident, haughty duchess you attempt to portray will not be enough to solve your problems. I know better. Anne rubbed a hand over her temple and forehead. She wouldnt need to tell Clarissa everything, just enough to get an opinion. They were womenvery different womenbut maybe she would understand. Whom could she tell, if not Clarissa? Youve heard the expression they use in the country, the one about chickens coming home to roost? Clarissa nodded her head, neither looking hopeful for some dreaded admission nor scornful that whatever she might learn would make Anne look worse than she already was. Well, all of my chickens arrived on the same day. Im sorry. Is there anything I can do? Have you ever done a selfish thing in your life, Clarissa? Of course. Anne smiled. It isnt selfish to demand an orgasm a few times a week, she said, once again veering away from the topic. Why dont you tell me about one chicken? I dont have to know the name of each of the hens. Well, this particular chicken requires that I confront my past, and by doing so, may cause another chicken to die. Oh not in the literal sense, Anne assured. But a chicken I value. In fact, the most important chicken, she finished. Its a rooster really, she added, laughing, though not feeling an ounce of humor inside. In fact, she felt no joy whatsoever, only dread for what must be done. Anne, you already know what to do. Be a chicken myself? Anne felt that her friend did love her, however, Anne didnt know how to reciprocate. She had never been able to wield the same influence on women as she had with men. Take the bull by the horns? Enough with the farm analogies. Clarissa touched Annes arm. Randall cares for you. Whatever it is, there are two of you to carry the burden. Anne sighed, wishing it were as simple as that. Tell me about the boys. Will you be going back to York at Seasons end? Oh you and Randall must come for a few weeks in the fall. Michael swears the
49

Eliza Lloyd

clean air puts new vigor in a man. Vigor Randall has, but the clean air does sound wonderful.

*****
All day, Randall puzzled over Anne and their relationshipnot something he was given to do on a regular basis. His wife was the epitome of dependability and determination and had not given him a single reason to worry that she was nearing the end of their accord. Their mutual agreement was clear. She had said, and he had agreedthey had agreedthat their parting would be rational and logical when the time came. Severing the one flesh aspect of their marriage would come when they had grown tired with each other. Bored. They had agreed to go their ways with dignity and discretion. They had agreed to an unemotional discourse. So why the hell was he furious over the possibility? Anne enjoyed, nay, demanded sex, without fail. He was happy to oblige. Anne was singularly lacking in the silly animation, emotional tears and nagging wifeliness that he had seen in other mens wives and had experienced with Victoria. Yet within the space of a week, maybe less, he had heard her gently nag about the children and tear up over the most innocent of remarks. Imagine crying over the fact Joseph had called her mother. Anne! His reliable Anne. The coup de grace had come last night when she had declined his offer of sex. Really declined. Not one of those denials that only required passionate persuasion. He didnt feel any better that she had sucked on his cock this morning. A death knell sounded somewhere, he just hadnt heard it in the state of shock hed experienced. Whatever the wind of change had wrought, he wanted no part of it. As his duchess, she was firmly entrenched. He was well aware that improving her station had been her primary aspiration in life. There would be no divorce, only a polite relationship that he knew in the end he could tolerate. For years, that was all he had expected. Damn, the change in her could mean only one thingshe was going to take a lover. Hadnt he nearly threatened her when they had discussed this inevitable awkwardness prior to the marriage? The transition from monogamous marriage to serial lovers. Hed wanted it to be quick and without emotion. He had mistakenly believed that this day would still be several years away. In the short term, it was intolerable. The idea of giving up Anne sent boiling blood to every vein of his body. Even now, his cock throbbed. He had half a mind to go home and do something about it. The other half of his mind was doing him no good as an

50

Wicked Temptation

erection usually made thinking a tad difficult. Once she took a lover, he would be free to do the same. After Victorias death, the idea of a fresh young mistress had held substantial appeal. He had also imagined a seasoned widow eager to share the warmth and affection he could offer. He had not actually imagined marriage so soon after Victorias death, nor had he imagined he would tie himself for the rest of his life to a woman like Anne. He didnt even think about her age, though he knew she did. It was her background. Her reputation. Her aggressiveness in her desire for sex, her pragmatism, her calculating shrewdness, her bawdy humor, her intelligence. And yet she personified womanliness. This day may have been coming since the moment of their marriage vows, but she was not going to take a lover until she told him to his face. Theyd agreed. Only one thing had mattered to him prior to their marriage and that was having no one but her. And he damned well wasnt ready to give her up.

*****
Anne penned the note, ending with a definitive flourish. Your presence is requested at once. A footman took her prepared note and delivered the message a few minutes after Clarissa left. Anne would confront Redding. Another week or day or minute of anxiety would not do. Knowing Redding, he would be over posthaste. In fact, he had scrawled a response and had it back in her hands within fifteen minutes. Hed arrived within the half hourto the nines. Anne reached into her pocket and felt the crumpled paper of the threatening note. The feel of the paper and the rough bump of Reddings seal made it all frighteningly real. She couldnt throw the note away, just as she couldnt make the threat disappear. Your Grace, the Earl of Redding to see you. Do show him in. Anne stood, smoothing her hands over her bodice and down her dress, refreshed after a much-needed change of attire and a revitalizing toilette. The flattering crimson gown and a large ruby cabochon necklace dangling from a gold chain would remind him who she wasthe Duchess of Pelham. Not some commoner with whom he might trifle and intimidate. Redding entered the room. Dashing, handsome, a man any woman would want were she not already married to the man she loved. His dark orange waistcoat was embroidered in a dazzling array of flowers. A topaz stickpin winked in his cravat. He bowed, hat in hand. Your Grace. Redding, she said. Do be seated.

51

Eliza Lloyd

Redding made no moved to do so, only stood staring at her, obviously gazing at her assets. To what do I owe this great pleasure? You know why you are here. I do, but I thought I would much prefer to hear it from your lips rather than presume. I see. The duke isnt home I take it? No, he had business. Just as well. I would have preferred this assignation to occur someplace more private, but as the exalted duchess wishes otherwise, I am yours to command. What is it you want from me? Am I to be granted all of my wishes then? Or just those that can be accomplished within the hour? Anne glared. I think we can resolve our differences in less than an hour. Redding threw his hat on a nearby settee, then stepped close to Anne, all the while smilingthe Redding jaw prominent, the mouth wide with a dazzling row of white teeth. I had hoped your missive meant that our differences were behind us? For all of his charm, Anne was confused by his glib manner. Hed all but accused her of murder just a few days ago. Redding, what is it you want from me? Firstly, I want you. I thought I had made that abundantly clear last month in Hampstead. I knew a woman like you would never be satisfied for long in one mans bed. You want me? she asked, stunned. Anne, I have no hard feelings about what happened between you and my father. Frankly, I was happy you broke it off, or I would have had to leave the country for fear of the scandal Id cause, lusting after my fathers wife. I wasnt sure you felt the same way until I got your note today. Anne knew her mouth hung open in shocked confusion. What the hell was he talking about? What about the note you sent me? Redding gripped her shoulders. Anne stared at him as if shed just seen him for the first time. Im here, arent I? Anne watched in muted fascination as he tilted his head and inched ever closer to her. His lips touched hers yet she did nothing. Why couldnt she push him away? Her arms felt leaden, her feet like blocks of stone. He slid one arm around her waist and pulled her closer. His mouth opened over hers in the softest possession and his tongue slid warmly into her mouth. Not once had
52

Wicked Temptation

she imagined how Edwards kisses would feel. Funny, she had never realized it until now. She had never kissed a man while married to another. She turned her face away. Edward. Dont. His erection bulged hard against her stomach. He gripped her wrist and moved her hand to his groin. This is what you do to me, Anne. I must have you. And I must insist that you take your hands from my wife. They both turned at the sound of Randalls voice. He stood at the door, his hand on the knob, an expression so blank and yet so chillingly lethal, Anne thought he might be prepared to kill one of them. Or both. Edward had more presence of mind. He loosed her hand and stepped back very slowly. He also had the presence of mind to say nothing. Rand, its not what you think. I would have guessed youd think of something more clever, Anne. Did you have something in your eye perhaps? Or was he smelling your new perfume? He laughed harshly. Or maybe he was just in the neighborhood and thought he would stop by for the privilege of a morning fuck with the duchess? Stop, please. Edward, you should leave. Lord, what had happened? She had been prepared for a multitude of possibilities with Reddings visit. Not one of the scenes shed played out involved seduction. Yet shed stood as docile as a lamb led to the slaughter while shed allowed another man to kiss her. She ran her fingers across her forehead and closed her eyes until Edward spoke. Will you be all right? Edward asked, directing his inquiry to her, ignoring Randall at his own peril. He obviously didnt see the bloodlust churning in Rands gaze nor the fists that were clenched into iron-hard weapons at his side. Would she be all right? Why would Edward ask such a ridiculous question? What did he care? He was prepared to make her life a living hell with his inquiry. Then. Then he had the gall to face Randall, only a step away now. You have no right to harm her. Randall leaned toward Redding threateningly. No right? I could bloody well beat her within an inch of her life and youd bloody well have nothing to say about it. I am not the one trying to seduce another mans wife, you bloody prick. Now get the hell out of my house before I have you carried out. Redding squared off, braced for a fight. I was invited, by your wife, who obviously is unsatisfied in your bed or she wouldnt be seeking entertainment with me. I will leave at her behest, not yours. Anne flinched as she saw Rand erupt in raw fury. Her hands covered her mouth, preventing a scream, as his arm swung in deadly aim, his fist connecting with the earls jaw with a resounding thunk and an alarming crack. The earl kept his feet, dazed for a
53

Eliza Lloyd

moment, but Randall was low on patience and absolutely devoid of mercy. A second time and then a third solid connection before the earl went down, landing in a sprawl on her Turkish carpet. Redding, nearly the same build as Randall, wasnt out cold, but turned to his side and attempted to push to his feet. If you get to your feet again, I swear I will kill you where you stand. Redding stayed reclined on the floor, snatched a white handkerchief from inside his jacket and dabbed at the bleeding cuts on his cheek and at his lip. Anne, coming out of her daze, rushed to Randall. Please dont, she urged, looking into his face, her hands gripping his arms, as if she could prevent his forward movement, or anything else for that matter. He still stared at Redding. Anne felt the palpable tension in him as if he hoped Redding would further provoke him to violence. Leave, Edward. Now, she said. Anne cupped the side of Rands face, forcing his gaze to hers. When she saw the fury, and something else, she regretted the decision to stand so close to him while he exuded barely controlled rage. She had to make it right. When the door shut behind Edward, Rand finally spoke. You invited him here? His voice, normally deep and sure, cracked with emotion. Yes.

54

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Five
Suppressed emotion shook every fiber of his being. The very hair on his skin vibrated. Rand thought he might be only a step from murderous insanity. If Anne removed her hand from his face, he would lose the single anchor he had at the moment. Sexual passion had never caused such deep pain before. But then, hed never had such a passionate, sexual being for a wife before either. If this was jealousy, and other men felt it, how did they let their wives parade about town without a care to their marriage, to their children and their own self-respect? Or was he the only fool that cared whether another man touched his wife? Aside from beating Redding to a bloody pulp, Rand knew only one outlet that would take the biting edge off his current frustration and fury. Annes breasts heaved from her own reactions. At some point since entering the room, an aching erection had sprouted between his legs. His thoughts churned rapidly, moving from the immediate wish to kill Redding to the abrupt, burning desire to fuck his wife. Everyone knew Annes reputation with men, but now it was his reputation on the linehe would not be known as a cuckold. And he wanted to remind her vividly what she had in his bed. His hand went to the side of her neck, his thumb under her chin, forcing her gaze to his. You are not satisfied with me? Dont, Rand. Now is not the time to discuss this. Once youve calmed down His mouth descended upon hers, biting at her lips, forcing his tongue into the hot, inviting terrain of her mouth. He trailed his lips over her cheek and whispered in her ear, He will not have you, Anne. No man will. He swept her into his arms and carried her to a spot between the two settees. Kneeling, he lowered her to the floor on her back. She twisted, attempting to free herself. He braced one hand on her leg and used the other to ruck up the flounces of her skirt. She tried to push her skirts down and her knee came up hard, hitting him in the side. He straddled her thighs and effectively stopped her squirming. His hands searched at his trousers, loosening the buttons, freeing his rigid cock, letting her know what she did to him. Youre not thinking clearly, she said. Neither were you if you thought inviting the earl into my home was a good idea.

55

Eliza Lloyd

Her hands were still busy, attempting modesty. He laughed, plucked one then the other of her dainty hands and secured them into one of his larger ones. He slipped a finger between her legs. Abundant, damp moisture slicked his finger. Whos this for? Me or him? Annes nostrils flared. Her eyelids lowered, but still she watched him. He lifted her hands over her head. The bodice of her dress gaped and her breasts were visible, round and firm. Using his knees, Rand spread her legs and lay over her, his cock slipping naturally into the apex of her thighs, brushing along the velvety seam. His hips settled, spreading her wide. Still she said nothing. Canting slightly, he nudged into her. Knowing her with the intimacy of a treasured possession, he thrust, sliding in long and deep. Air rushed from her lungs in a sweeping moan and the familiar sound of desire. He freed her hands, but she didnt move to embrace or caress him. He slipped his hand inside her bodice and forced her breasts free of the restraint. Kneading, he lowered his head and suckled, settling into the timeless rhythm of sexual succor. Need overcame his senses. His thrusting turned into a forceful, pounding beat that drove him to the point of madness. He trailed his lips up her neck to her ear. God, Anne. Do you know how much I need you? He possessed her with long, deep kisses, sweeping his tongue into her mouth, then nibbling at her lips. He had everything he wantedhis cock buried inside the sweetest cunt in Christendom, his hands full of firm, lush breasts and his mouth and tongue sipping from a well of passion. Only he didnt have her heart. The roiling release came in a hard rush, his cock buried deep, his body rigid and his mind blissfully empty of anything but the rightful feeling of fulfillment and possession. When he came to himself, he examined her, staring into the luminous unknown of her gaze. You do not have to take what I have always been willing to give. The pompous, demanding dukes sense of betrayal reared its ugly head again, after being momentarily tamed. That is the problem, madam. You are too willing to give for the asking. Annes hand shot out at a blistering speed and connected with the side of his face, the echo sounding in the room like a gunshot at dawn. Get off me, she ordered. Rand pushed to his knees but kept Anne firmly in place with her legs spread. She again batted at her skirts, attempting some modesty, but not before he caught sight of the delectable valley between her legs and the drizzle of cum leaking onto the carpet. Finally, he stood. Rand held out his hand, palm up, and she reached for him. He grasped her hand and with a smooth even pull, hoisted her to her feet and then up and
56

Wicked Temptation

over his shoulder, bending at the knees, capturing her completely. Anne woofed when her diaphragm connected with his shoulder at the sudden stop. He brushed at her skirts to cover her legs, then turned and strolled from the room. Put me down, she ground out as he walked into the foyer. He ignored the two footmen stationed near the doors and started up the stairs. She pushed at his back. His hand connected to her bottom with a quick thwack that stopped the squirming. All he heard was, Oh. Ohhhhh. Put. Me. Down. Once inside their bedroom, he carried Anne to the bed and threw her in the middle. She landed on her back and bottom, bouncing in a flounce of skirt, bedcovers and fluffy mattress that held her pinned for a moment, struggling, while he untied his cravat. If you touch me again, it will not be with my consent. Her hair had come loose and spread in disarray around her face and over her shoulders. I assure you, Your Grace, the laws of England do not care if I have your consent. But in order to ease your mind, I want you to know that not only will I have your consent He grabbed one of her wrists, looping the cravat around the delicate joint and fastening her securely to the bedpost. What are you doing? She clawed at the knot. He wasnt worried she would break free. She stopped her struggle and said sweetly, Rand, please untie me. As I was saying, he left her on the bed and strolled toward his armoire, where he proceeded to rifle through Winslows masterfully ironed selection of cravats and found three suitably long specimens, Yes, these should do the trick. As I was saying, I will not only have your consent, I will have your blessing to fuck you any which way I please, Your Grace. Rand reached for her ankle. Anne backed away, trying to wriggle from his grasp. He tightened his grip. She bucked and kicked, trying to get loose, but with a few quick turns and knots, he had a second binding in place. Let me go! she screamed. He worked quickly, and in no time the final knot was secured. Anne was furious, her gaze nearly shooting fire across the room. She jerked at the bindings on her ankles and wrists. Let. Me. Go. He stood, arms folded across his chest, looking down at the bane of his existence. The joy of his life. Rand didnt care that he was in a dark humor. As a man, his reputation had been impugned. As a husband, his trust betrayed. Anne gritted her teeth, determined not to speak or respond to anything the barbaric man said or did. She vowed to wilt away into nothing, she would refuse food or drink or conversation or warmth. And if she could refuse all that, the need to have sex with a maniac wouldnt be

57

Eliza Lloyd

hard to resist either. She hated being tied, had had very bad experiences with another lover, but she would not give Rand the satisfaction of hearing her say so. She was determined not to cry out. Rand was with her, she wasnt alone. She tugged at the bonds. Her wrists chafed. Her crimson dress, so beautiful earlier, was now wrinkled and uncomfortable. The stays were tight and there was no one to release them. For the moment, he ignored her. He walked to the other side of the room and poured a large dose of whiskey into a crystal glass designed for brandy. Well, he must be out of his mind if he could make such a glaring faux pas. He ambled toward an overstuffed chair near the windows. He lowered his drink, repositioned the chair to face her and removed his jacket, throwing it over a sculpted statue of a naked woman, all before he sank into the comfort of the leather. He stared at her while slowly nursing the drink. You cant keep me here forever, she said, trying to be logical. No, but I can keep you there until I kill Redding. Then I might let you go. Rand! He did nothing wrong. Forgive me. I seem to recall a passionate kiss followed by fondling another mans cock. My definition of wrong must differ substantially from yours. But maybe it was all a hallucination because my wife, who has such a pristine reputation, would never fuck a man not her husband. I should have stopped him. It was a misunderstanding. No, my dear wife. You should not have invited him to my home in the first place. I had business to discuss with Redding. Business? When we entered this marriage, you promised, as did I, to disclose the nature of our sexual interests. I have been laboring away under the presumption that you were entirely satisfiedentirely exhaustedand in no need of extracurricular attentions. He shoved up out of the chair and paced in the confines of the crowded room. He glared at her from the end of the bed. Are you dissatisfied? No! A hundred times no, but you need to let me explain. Rand turned away. His steps led to a wooden chest where he kept dueling pistols, rapiers, knives and assorted manly whatnots. Anne gasped as he clutched and then examined a gleaming knife from amongst the weapons. Randall. Darling. She gave him her best smile. Whatever you are thinking, it cant be a good idea. He laughed, touching his finger to the edge. Oh it is a wonderful idea, considering the alternatives. Again, Rand paced to the bed and stopped near her foot. He dropped the knife

58

Wicked Temptation

between her legs and reached for her shoe, slipping it from her foot. The second shoe followed, landing on the floor with a light thud. Better? he asked. She wiggled her toes but refused to concur. Gripping the knife again, he reached for the full skirts and with a quick slash, ripped a long tear from waist to hem. Anne stared, aghast at his behavior. Please do not say something tedious about how much this dress cost. He slashed again and again, until the formerly beautiful skirt was now a pile of rags between her legs. I would suggest you remain very still, he added. Anne held her breath as the knife came perilously close to her chin. Cool metal touched her skin and slid between her breasts. A quick upturn of the sharp blade ensued and Rand had the bodice of her dress, chemise and stays ripped and split in two. With one finger, he separated the material, exposing her breasts. He smiled, circling his finger over the tight nipple. Do I have your consent to touch this? Go to hell. Madam, I am already there. Rand used the blade swiftly after that, removing both sleeves and slashing through the thicker material encompassing her waist. He dropped the knife to the bedstand and proceeded to remove the remnants of cloth, going so far as to slide his hand under her ass to lift her. She was bare except for the black stockings tied above her knees. Go ahead. Look your fill. Youre never going to see me naked again. Rand laughed, his good humor seemingly restored. Then Id better make the most of it. A knock had Rand turning to address the interruption. He flipped the coverlet over her most private parts first, before strolling toward the door. What is it? he asked, opening the door but a crack. She noticed he also had his booted foot wedged at the lower edge to prevent a sudden intrusion. Your Grace, I thought perhaps Her Grace needed me, Carrie said. Anne would be rescued. Whatever nefarious plan Rand had with her would be thwarted, and once he regained control of his senses, they could talk about this like rational beings. Carrie, please come in. I need you immediately, Anne said loud enough to be heard in the kitchen. Rands hand stayed her entrance. Mrs. Black, Her Grace is indisposed and I am tending to her. But
59

Eliza Lloyd

Who pays your wages, Mrs. Black? You do, Your Grace. You despicable cad! Anne yelled. And the wages for Mr. Black? You. Anne could hear the fight leave Carries voice. You ungrateful bastard, Anne screamed. When was the last time you and Mr. BlackElmer, isnt it?had a few days alone? Or a seaside holiday? Carrie didnt answer, sufficiently cowed by the dukes deceitful machinations. Dont leave me, Carrie. Anne heard the sound of the continued negotiation. Three or four days perhaps? I hear Brighton is lovely this time of year. The click, click of coins was the only sound she could hear. Thank you, Your Grace. Oh Mrs. Black. Would you also inform the other servants they can have the next three days off, with pay of course. Except Cook, and tell him Ill be down shortly to discuss todays meals. Oh, and the governess. And her helper. Oh, and tell Mr. Barry hell be needed as well. That should be all. Oh, and most specifically tell Winslow he is to visit his mother for the next three days I hate you! Anne butted in again, to no avail. And if I catch a glimpse of him, I will dismiss him without reference. Are you sure, Your Grace? I mean Is a wife not the single most important possession that a man has? Anne rolled her eyes. The duchess will be well cared for, I assure you. Thank you, Your Grace. The cowardly woman! Abandoning her for the merest hint of coin. Carrie disappeared behind the closed door without another word. Rand latched and locked the door before turning back to her. The lazy smiled on his face infuriated her. Dont look so smug. This isnt over, Anne said. Im so glad. Surely, the return of his good nature boded well for her? Rand, please, untie me. Let me dress, we can sit together like adults and discuss the situation. Sounds tedious. Im having much more fun viewing your nakedness and trying to imagine some seduction that will have you begging for intercourse in the next hour. Fine, she huffed. Have me. Fuck me senseless. You have my blessing.
60

Wicked Temptation

Do I? My goodness, that was easy. Oh, and I have a little confession to make. When you talk like that, it does excite me, so much so that I could fuck us both senseless. He sat on the bed beside her, lifted back the covering and trailed a finger along her thigh, caressing teasingly upward. Get it over with. Ive changed my mind. Anne clenched her teeth and turned her face away. I think now I will have you begging. Yes, thats it. His finger circled her bellybutton, then he lowered his mouth to the little indention and ran his tongue around the rim. Anne had to hold back a giggle, but her body tightened nonetheless. Am I to starve, waiting your pleasure? Surely Cook has our luncheon ready. Perhaps you should check? Oh I dont think youll starve for a few days. He patted her thigh. You think Im fat? Ho! I have enough issues with you. Dont think you are going to get me to say something so reckless as you are fat. You would remind me of it until the day I die. He leaned toward her, one hand slid to her breast, his mouth so near she could feel the heat of his breath. He kissed her. You are beauty beyond compare. For the first time in many months, Rand actually felt as if he had some control in their relationship. A shame his wife had to be tied to the bed to achieve that peaceful novelty. Then again, maybe not. Everything about their companionship, courtship and marriage had involved headlong and heedless indiscretions, starting with the broken engagement to the nowdead Earl of Redding. Ultimately, nothing that he had regretted, but the months could be summed up easilytheyd been like drunken sailors enjoying each other and life, allowing the wind and tide to blow them where it would. Now, with Anne staked out on the shore of his bed, maybe his seasickness would abate. Maybe he would find his equilibrium. He glanced at his wife, spread-eagled on the bed, and had to squash his ageless, reckless and endless desire for her. For once, he would think with his head, not his heart or body. He rolled away from her, getting to his feet and working at the buttons of his sleeves. He yanked the shirt over his head. What are you doing? Undressing. I can see that. Why are you undressing? Because Im a mite overdressed for the occasion. He slipped the breeches over his
61

Eliza Lloyd

buttocks and then sat on the bed. He lifted one leg and removed first one black boot and then the other before he kicked off the tight leggings. He positioned himself beside her on his side, his arm bent, her outstretched arm fitting perfectly in the nook underneath while he cupped his head in his palm and examined every perfect inch of her ivory skin. Not a blemish. The tiniest two lines near her eyes. A gently sloping nose, which he had to touch. And those bow-shaped lips, darker than pink, but not quite red. Plump. Soft. Womanly. He bent to kiss her. She must have forgotten that she was angry because her lips softened under his and she kissed him back. He pulled a few inches away and they stared into each others eyes. How many lovers have you had? Her eyes widened. You said it didnt matter. You said youd never ask. And as I recall, you said wed discuss it before you decided to take a lover that would end our sexual relationship. I havent taken a lover. Why should I believe you? With his finger, he circled her breast. If you cant tell when a womans body responds to a man, then you arent the lover I thought. Believe it if you want, but know this, I will take great pleasure in informing you when I do bed another man, she said with defiance. Randall stared at her, trying to determine the truth. All right. I believe you. But I do want to know, Anne. I find it decidedly irritating to see a man ogle you, and Im left to wonder if he has, in fact, tasted the goods, rather than just wishing to do so. Dont make me say. Would it be easier if I went first? Lud! No! I dont want to know, Rand. It would kill me. Was Baron Alsept your first? I have had myriad lovers. Twenty, at least! she proclaimed. Not quite twenty, Id wager. But certainly more than just the Duke of Pelham and the Baron Alsept. Was he your first? Randall was surprised, and pleased, at her false bravado and underlying embarrassment regarding the topic. He wanted the truth, but he wanted to understand her motivations and her feelings more. Plus, it distracted him from the large burr named Redding irritating him. Yes, she whispered. And you were faithful to him during your marriage? Of course! Id made my vow willingly. Rand was pleased again, thinking the truthful declaration was also an indication as to how she would treat him, unless he released her from her vow at some point in the far, far distant future. It was what they had agreed. However, the statement didnt explain the activities in his downstairs sitting room.

62

Wicked Temptation

Who was next? Rand entered dangerous territory. Whoever said knowledge was power had a screw loose. With knowledge came guilt, anger, indecision and a bushel of other immeasurable consequences. Anne sighed, her body relaxing. After Hugh died, while I was in mourning, I took a loverViscount Clifton. I knew right away it was a mistake. He was abusive, easily angered, jealous and voracious in his sexual needs. I stayed with him. For a time. Why? A widow of independent means need not succumb to such a man. Because She turned her head away again. No one would believe Anne VanLandingham was afraid of anything, least of all, speaking her mind. Tell me, please. His fingers continued caressing along the soft skin of her breasts, not sexually, but in a smooth, soft stroke intended to comfort. Because for the first time, he made me feel what it was to be a woman. You had an orgasm, he stated, understanding better. The first time, I thought I was dying and then it was so wonderful. Clifton was always kind afterward. I thought that made it acceptable. When I realized I should have that feeling anyway and not just because of him, I broke it off. I came to London then. Does that make sense? she asked. Sadly, yes. You didnt want to associate that feeling with one of abuse. I think so. Still, I wanted that feeling. So you arrived in London, fresh from the countryside, took the ton by storm, then what? No, not immediately. I thought to remarry. There were respectable gentlemen interested in me. I did all that was necessary to find my place in society, though not as elevated as one might imagine. Certainly, the highborn at Almacks didnt invite me into their exalted circle. And look at you now. Youve overtrumped them all. Rand had learned more about his wife tonight than in perhaps the entire history of his marriage with her. However, the talk of other lovers had cast a decided net over Rand. She was nowhere near the begging and he was very near the wanting and having. He slid his hand back down her body and over her thigh until he came to his thickening cock. He slyly wrapped his fingers around his erection and started a slow, tantalizing rhythm. Nothing too crazed, just enough to heighten the building need. Still positioned beside her, he lowered his head and kissed the side of her breast. She didnt notice, wrapped up in some troubling detail of her past. He opened his mouth and suckled on her abundant breast and the tantalizing nipple that formed a hard little point against his tongue. When she noticed, she twisted away from him, her nipple popping from his mouth. No. Not until you untie me.

63

Eliza Lloyd

Im sorry. Thats not going to happen, not until Im sufficiently convinced your begging is heartfelt. You fiend. He was making progress. Her insult didnt have near the stinging emotion. He continued to rub his cock, only he started rubbing his lengthy erection against her leg, the sensitive tip brushing against the softness of her thigh. Cease youryour touching. You wont convince me you arent thinking lewd thoughts. I wont bother trying, since you are obviously deranged. She attempted to roll away, only exposing her very shapely ass, intensifying his rapidly advancing cause. He stroked his cock with his fingers, just the way he liked it, only now he had the added benefit of sliding the tip along the sweet little valley of her ass. He brushed the hair away from her neck and set his lips to her skin. Musky sweetness, all Anne, filled his nostrils. The first time I had an orgasm I was twelve. Rand could remember it as though it were yesterday and his balls set to aching as he imparted his story to Anne. I had been fishing by myself. I lay down in the grass and the sun beat down on me. I felt a bit drowsy. Id taken off almost all of my clothes. Sometimes I liked to swim if the fishing wasnt good. I must have fallen asleep because when I woke, I had the most incredible erection lying there against my belly. You remember how amazed you were the first time you saw my erection? he teased, well, thats how I felt. Amazed. I picked it up, wrapped my hand around and squeezed. I could barely catch my breath so I let go, but the erection didnt go away, it just lay there and ached and throbbed, demanding that I do something. Then I thought about Becky Sadler. She was one of the milkmaids at Bridgeton. I touched myself again. I thought about Beckys long-fingered hands as she worked at a cows udder. I started stroking like Id seen her do. He sucked air between his teeth as his orgasm rose sharply against Annes backside. He snuggled in behind her, with just enough room to stroke. I thought heaven had come down on me. My little penis let loose a torrent of cum. It seemed endless, he whispered. Kind of like how I feel with you. He stroked long and hard, pressing against her ass cheek at the end, as semen gushed, paused and gushed again, spilling all over Annes beautiful curves. He wouldnt even mind that hed have to clean up the mess. A year later, she met me down at the fishing hole. Her hands werent as good as I had imagined but her mouth. What a mouth. Is this Miss Sadler still at Bridgeton? Oh yes. Then I shall have to dismiss her.

64

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Six
Rand whistled on his way out the door, leaving Anne free except for the original knotted rope around her wrist. When she realized he was giving her partial freedom, she hadnt been so breathless with the thought of being alone and strapped down. Hed set the washbasin and the chamber pot within reach, but she went to work on the knot, determined to be free, and clothed, before he returned. She was a duchess. A duchess tied to her husbands bed. A hysterical giggle welled up in herpart nerves, part relief that he hadnt actually hurt her or that he hadnt used cruelty while she was tied up. She would never have believed it of him, but angry men were an unknown quantity. In truth, she had never seen him so furious as when he beat Redding about the face. Her left hand wasnt as useful as her right. Her fingers wrested with the knot, seemingly making progress only to find it bound even tighter. Finally, she gave up. Damned man. Had her in knots in more ways than one. She flopped on the bed, not caring that she was naked. One stocking had come loose and puddled around her ankle. She must look like one of Madame Dupuis whores. She slipped it off. The tie on her other stocking came free with a single tug and she removed it too. Yanking her hand against the linen cravat, she resigned herself to completing her toilette and waiting. She glanced at the knife on the far bedstand, knowing it was just out of reach. If she could just Anne rolled and twisted, aligning her body crossways on the bed. She threw the pillows to the floor. Turning on her stomach, she inched toward her goal, her feet and toes nearly touching the blade. Just a little more. She wiggled her bum again. Her big toe brushed the handle. She bit at her lips, trying to get her toes to work together to secure the blade. For a woman your age, you are very limber. Rand stood in the doorway, clad in his silky green robe, his bare chest visible. He carried a tray of food, which might have interested her under different circumstances. Ugh! Go away. What, and return to find a knife in my wifes back? I wasnt going to hurt myself. He walked into the room and set the tray at the end of the bed, then returned to the

65

Eliza Lloyd

door, closed and locked it. Go on, I want to see if you can do it. No, I have a cramp in my foot. She curled inward, unwilling to give him a glimpse of anything he might want to see. Do you? Would you like me to rub it? The tray rattled a bit as he found a place on the bed, sitting and pulling one leg up while his other foot was braced firmly against the floor. His robe parted, revealing strong, bare legs with his cock and testicles nestled obediently between. Dont you think this has gone on long enough? she asked. I recall something about begging, and you still seem rather defiant. I will not beg. Mores the pity. I suspect it is your duchess-like nature. Too toplofty to do anything but command. Come. Set your pretty little ass next to me, and I might let you feed me. Anne was hungry. She sat up, accommodating the singular snare, crossing her ankles as she scooted closer to Randall. She pulled a sheet across her lap, not that he wouldnt be thinking about what was hidden beneath. He cut a slice of bread, not fresh, probably from yesterdays batch, but he slathered it with churned butter and a bit of jam before offering it to her. He held it to her mouth, but she used her hand and took it from him. So who else? he asked. She choked on her jam and bread. Who else what? Tell me about your other lovers. When she didnt answer, he hazarded a guess. Lord Carew? Carew is a pervert. How would you know that? He turned a suspicious glance in her direction, one brow raised. I have ears. Oh, he has a sexual perversion for ears? Anne laughed before she controlled herself. Im not saying another word. The talk at Whites Im talked about at your club? You were. Not now. Not since we married. You mean not within your hearing. How embarrassing. Anne reached for a strawberry, hovering for a moment before she changed her mind and took an apricot instead. Anne, you cannot imagine that a woman with your reputation is not discussed with some fervor amongst the more adventurous men in town. Especially since you had no one to protect you before.

66

Wicked Temptation

So what did they say? Well, what I heard was that you had a stable of lovers, from every walk of life. And that you were exquisite in bed. Unparalleled, I believe was the term they used. Really? They said that about me? She smiled, not necessarily because she was being talked about, but that a woman her age would be talked about in the context of sexual pleasure. I wouldnt be too proud, if I were you. He tweaked one of her nipples and she squirmed away. I cant help but find it interesting how such ridiculous rumors get started, considering I know the truth, and applying stable of lovers to describe my past experience is a bit exaggerated. He chewed on that before reaching for the teapot. Lord Dunbar? Charles or Thomas? Either? Both? Too cheap. Did you know that Thomas allows his wife only two new dresses per season? I hope his wife knows a fine lawyer to keep her dowry intact. Is that the best you can come up with? I think Im insulted. I could guess the rest of the evening. Why dont you just put me out of my misery and recite the list for me. Alexander Preston, she said. And Daniel Ettiger. Preston? Hes a nobody. An estate in Kent. Hes a baron. Hes very kind. He would have married me, except he wanted children. Ettiger. The Frenchman? I wouldnt have guessed him. Hes dead now, isnt he? He wasnt even titled. I thought he was pretty high in the instep. Who else? Thats it. Anne had carefully guarded her secret. She supposed most puritans thought three lovers in ten years to be scandalous. Thats it? Rands eyebrows winged in suspicion. Besides your two husbands, youve had exactly three lovers? She nodded, eager for him to believe and glad it had been said after all. I was with Alexander for a number of years. Discreetly, of course. No. You are not telling me the whole truth. I wouldnt lie. No, she wouldnt tell him about Ettigers interesting views on intercourse. Initially, he had been amorous and adventurous but oddly perverted. Anne refused to blush over the things he had done to her. Her ribald reputation had blossomed when Ettiger and Baron Clifton encountered one another at a ton function. Anne was surprised that Rand didnt know of it. If he had, surely he would ask more questions. Her two former lovers had tried to best each other with their peccadilloes and sexual adventures starring the Widow Alsept. Drunk

67

Eliza Lloyd

they may have been, but Annes reputation had been in tatters afterward. Shed managed to make the best of their lies, refusing to be anyones mistress for a time, and slowly the insistent chatter turned into speculation only. No one knew for sure. Ettiger had since died. Clifton was back in Wales and dear Alexander was too kind to add tinder to the fire. Alexander, who had been her last lover before Rand, had been the one to teach her the value of self. Without him, she would not have grown to appreciate Randall VanLandingham for what he wasaside from the obvious benefits of being his duchess. That doesnt explain Reddingeither the current Redding or your former betrothed. I will not discuss the current Lord Redding until you untie me. And no, I did not have intercourse with my betrothed. After all, we were only engaged a few weeks. Edwards father, James, had openly suggested a sexual relationship. Anne was nearing forty and had decided to marry and reach for the stars in doing sothe richest and highest-ranking eligible noble she could landRedding at the time. Truthfully, she had not been that sexually attracted to him. Meeting and marrying Rand had marked an epoch in her life. Fair enough. Rand caressed the skin of her inner thigh with his palm, stroking along the rounded hips and the curve of her waist until he reached her breasts. Well, arent you going to untie me? Im in no hurry. Redding can wait. You are maddening. Finish up, Your Grace. Ive a mind to see you begging. I need to see the children. You saw them this morning. I asked Ella. Anne nibbled on a few more morsels before she reclined, pulling the sheet completely over her body. Rand finished several dishes on the platter, licked his fingers when he was done and then removed the tray from the bed. He stopped at the washstand and cleaned up, splashing water over his face and hands. Anne had never quite been able to believe her good fortune in landing him. When he had approached her at Hyde Park, it had been with a hesitancy that belied his station in life. She had sensed his innate goodness, and since their marriage, he had proved her correct. He was adventurous and humorous, bringing a joy to her life she had never experienced.

68

Wicked Temptation

And he was stable. He had secrets, she was sure, but he wasnt secretive. If she asked a question, he answered. While he lacked skill as a husband and father, having neither example growing up, he tried to please. Even when he missed the mark, Anne could not help but love him anyway. If she were to catalog all of his many qualities, Anne knew she was the one who lacked in comparison. There was no one better for her. And for the first time, he was someone who entertained her both in and out of bed. Rand? He turned and smiled. Annes heart nearly melted and she forgot what she was going to ask. What is it, my plump little partridge? Ohhhh! With her left hand, Anne reached for the candle votive on the bedstand and threw it at him. He was laughing before the thick crystal crashed against the wall. She missed by several feet.

*****
After an afternoon nap entwined in each others arms, Rand lay awake and watched his wife. Her mouth twitched, turning into brief little smiles followed by sternlooking frowns that creased her brow. He had never known such a beautiful woman. Hair like simmering coals, vibrant dark red. Thick, coming to below her shoulders. He slipped his fingers through the silky mass and brought it to his nose. He pressed his nose closer and then kissed the top of her head. He inched her free arm toward the bindings and secured her again while she slept on. With a quick turn, he was on his knees and binding her ankles as well, wondering why he had never tried this before. She was most delectable bound and displayed for his pleasure. Hed been wrong about wanting to know details of her past. Still, he was happy to know it wasnt as sordid as hed been led to believe. Shamefully, it was the gossip and innuendo that had caused him to seek her out. Needy and lonely after a year of mourning, hed wanted to lose himself in the lush body of a woman who would both appreciate him yet have no expectations. There was only one woman that came to mind. Not of his class certainly, but wellenough known to cause curiosity and lust. When hed seen her at Hyde Park, she hadnt been surprised that he had, with illmannered graces, introduced himself. I know who you are, she had said in response. Hed explained exactly what he wanted. Dukes did that. She had seemed neither

69

Eliza Lloyd

repulsed nor shocked, but listened intently. Her sparkling eyes were the biggest challenge. Those eyes hadnt said no. Theyd said maybe. Perhaps. Would you be worth the time and energy? Would you pleasure me? Youre two weeks too late, dear boy, she had said. Im to be married, and as I dont believe you are prepared to offer the same, Im going to have to decline, she eyed him on that last statement, as regretful as that makes me. But since you have been so complimentary, perhaps you would join my husband and me for tea some afternoon. After we return from our honeymoon. Im to marry James Chase, the Earl of Redding. Perhaps you know him? And what had he said in response, ignoring the imminent betrothal? I would make you very happy. Shed tilted her head and gazed at his features. Indeed, I think you might. Hed felt her to his bones. His very being. Hed proposed a few days later, his mind and body having been in a constant state of agony since their meeting. Once hed delivered the marriage contract, theyd fucked like fiends for the next weekin her carriage a few minutes after the proposal, in her room on the floor before theyd even made it to the bed, and during the night, bodynumbing exertion that lasted into the morning, leaving them exhausted, sticky and entirely without bodily secrets. Theyd slept until dark that day. And then started all over again. The last week of his mourning had been the most incredible week of his life. Somewhere in there, she had sent a note to Redding to end the engagement. Rand peeled back the sheet that covered her breasts but not much else. Before his lips touched her, his mind and body had progressed by leaps and bounds, randy and ready for a night of exquisite fucking. Yes, shed be begging, because he was going to make her wait until her body wept. Wept for him. Or not. Whatever happened, theyd both be satisfied. Licking over the relaxed, flattened nipple, he stared in wonder as the tip beaded up hard. Her body and its responses excited him, even the small things. He lay beside her, laving and sucking the single nipple, interested in this one point on her body. His hand caressed over her stomach. Her skin was tight and smooth. After a few light caresses and much sucking, Anne started the soft hum of response, still in the peaceful repose of sleep. Perhaps she was in some erotic dreamland laden with oversized cocks and naked men who waited on her hand and foot. Or maybe she was in Hyde Park naked, with the grass tickling her skin. If he timed his seduction right, she would be deep in the throes of need before she realized she was tied again, subject to his pleasure and pace. He thought the resulting anger would work to his benefit. Oh she would be saying no, and damning him to hell in the process, but her body would be crying for release.
70

Wicked Temptation

She had described, as well as a person can describe, her sleep orgasms. She thought she had wounded his feelings when shed said they were as good without him as they were with. This surprised him, but it had also become a small mission to tip the scales in his favor. She said she could only ever have one sleep orgasm, but with him, as many as he could give her, as long as he lasted. Rand loved challenges. And he had become adept at providing ample orgasms, for comparative analysis. Regretfully, he left the lush breast and kissed his way down her skin to the sensitive area below her bellybutton. Anne squirmed as his tongue and lips and mouth did enticing little things to every inch of her skin. Her legs were relaxed and spread. The scent of arousal, of her bodys lubrication collecting and preparing for penetration, had Rand spellbound for a moment. He could slip inside her so easily, pump a few times and let his body fill hers. He could, but not tonight. The only fly in his ointment was the current Earl of Redding. What business could Anne possibly have with the man? And why was he the only one she wouldnt discuss? Rand went to his knees, positioning himself between her legs, where she was most vulnerable to hurtand to pleasure. Anne had been hesitant the first time he had hinted of his desire to kiss between her legs, shying like a new filly. Which seemed at odds with her reputation and what she had earlier admitted to him. Perhaps knowing what he did now, her hesitancy had more to do with unskilled techniques or the abuses shed endured with her first two lovers. He pressed his lips to her thigh, demanding that his mind give up the path his thoughts were traveling. Redding could wait. Braced on his elbows, he used his fingers with deft skill to part the soft folds and admire the inner workings that brought him such pleasure. She twitched. At his shoulders, he felt the clutch of her legs as he troubled her dreams. Rand leaned forward slowly, pressed the softest kiss against her clitoris and ran his tongue in slow circles around the swelling bud. With infinite patience, he slid his long finger into her pearly little cunt, stretching and caressing. The little member started a slow thrusting that she should be able to feel, but wouldnt cause a meteoric release. Or wake her abruptly. She drew a deep breath and let loose a sleepy, yearning sigh. Her hips started a rhythmic undulation. His mouth settled on the throbbing nub and suckled until he felt the first hint of contraction against his finger. He pushed deeper, pressing against the soft wall, just where shed tell him to touch, were she awake. The humming noise coming from deep in her throat sounded more anxious. Her neck arched and then her back. Rand recognized the perfect pitch of her coming orgasm. Like a finely tuned piano. And the masters fingers caressing the keys with just the right touch and rhythm.
71

Eliza Lloyd

She tensed and then relaxed into the bedding, emitting a final sigh of feminine satisfaction. Patiently, Rand waited, knowing that she was nearly awake. He saw the evidence of it as she raised her hand, only to be hampered by the bindings. She glanced around, confused for a moment, then tested the bindings at her other arm. Ra-annd? Her voice pitched higher. Rand! Her voice was more urgent. Yes, Im here. He gazed up at her from between her legs. She lifted her head from the soft pillow and stared down the terrain of her body, meeting his gaze. That was you? You were expecting pixies? When she said nothing else, even frowned a bit, Rand wasnt sure if she was fuming or contemplating further enchantments. He was an optimist. He kissed her inner thigh. You are irresistible, you know? Randall, I need you to untie me. Oh I dont know. Im finding the prospect of you at my complete and utter control much to my liking. She caught his glance again. Her eyes were shimmery. Rand, I am begging you to untie me. Something about the way she said begging and something about her posture caused him to reconsider his fun and games. What is it? He lifted to his hands and knees and crawled over her before lying beside her again. He rested his hand between her breasts, feeling the pleasant tension pulling between them. Under his fingers, her heart raced wildly, the beats strong against his palm. Tell me, Anne. I dont like being tied. I thought, since I was with you, I could make myself like it. But I dont. Please untie me. He didnt have to be asked again. He turned, reached for the knife on the bedstand, and with four quick swipes had cut through the bindings at her ankles and feet, lastly, removing each of the impediments that remained wrapped around her joints. Returning the knife to its place, he faced Anne again. Rand cupped the side of her face, gently forcing her to look at him. His thumb caressed her lips. You should have told me, Anne. Im sorry. I thought with you, I would be all right. Someone hurt you. God, Im so sorry. He kissed her lips, her eyelids, her nose. Her sweet, sweet mouth. Im sorry I ruined your evening. I know you had some wicked plans. Had? Madam, you are still naked in my bed and the sun has set. I think it wont take much preparation at all to devise a new set of wicked plans.
72

Wicked Temptation

*****
Monsieur LeBlanc is swearing over our breakfast, but he assures me that in spite of my dcision sotte, the inconvenience will not hinder the masterpiece he has planned. It is your own fault. I am sure he did not appreciate that you allowed his assistants three days off. What were you thinking? Rand laced her up, his fingers deft and strong, making short work of the tedious business of her morning dress. She held her hair up with one hand. As he breathed, she felt the warm air touch the back of her neck. What was I thinking? I was thinking that I would be in bed with you for three days and we were to live on love and nothing else. Anne laughed. Rand finished, then caressed her bottom as he stepped away. Too bad you dont do hair, she said. I must draw the line there. You would end up with a mess of hopeless tangles and I would not appreciate the resulting bald wife if you had to shear it all off. You dont mind going to the park with us? Here, let me. She beckoned as he started to knot his cravat. He approached and Anne caught a whiff of the cologne hed used after shaving. The temptation to slide her arms about his neck and enjoy the comfort of his embrace was tempting. As you pointed out, I have no servants. No one to make my life comfortable were I to stay at home. I may have to abandon the household for my club. The children would enjoy your presence. Please. As long as I am not required to ogle and fawn over other peoples children, I will make do. Of course, they can ogle and fawn over my children all they want. Anne finished the knot and returned to the dressing table, at an awkward angle and in bad light since the move, suddenly feeling claustrophobic at the inconvenience they had gone to in order to reconstruct her room. Again, why is it we havent moved to Grosvenor Square? Because once we movemy life, your lifewill no longer be our own. I fool myself into thinking I am still the young, irrepressible marquess with no responsibility except for the pleasurable duty of fucking my wife twice a day. And escorting said wife to the park and entertaining your children. She caught a glimpse of his frown as he turned away. Rand, they dont bite. He hmpfed in disagreement. I will never be the ideal father. I learned all I know from my grandfather, and a less caring man has never existed. This is not about what you need. It is what they need. Wouldnt you have preferred to have your father around? Rand turned away, reaching for his jacket. Anne finished brushing out her hair and then twisted it in a thick knot at the nape of her neck. She missed Carrie. She hadnt always had a ladys maid and could certainly do for herself, if she had to, but the

73

Eliza Lloyd

privilege was one she had come to enjoy. With a final hairpin, she went to assist Rand. Winslow is going to scold you if you go out wrinkled. She brushed her hands over his shoulders. Hell never know, since I dont plan to tell him. She kissed Rands cheek. Im going to see that Ella has things in hand with the children, but Ill be down shortly. Anne hummed as she strolled along the hallway to the staircase. She could almost forget about Redding and his threats. Her happiness seemed such a living thing when she was with Rand. And he seemed content with her. For such a small gift, she was very thankful. When she entered the nursery, the happy cacophony of childrens voices greeted her, but it was Josephs proper, Good morning, Mama, that made her heart ache with love. Good morning, Master Joseph. Are you ready for our stroll in the park? He marched up to Anne. She bent from the waist to meet him face-to-face. Mrs. Wallsy says Papa is coming with us. Indeed he is. Mrs. Wallsy said we were to behave and not mess our clothes. Why? Were you planning to misbehave? He giggled. No, but if Papa goes, we wont have fun. He is rather stiff, isnt he? I tell you what, if you promise me youll do what Mrs. Wallsy says, Ill make sure you and your papa have fun. Satisfied, Jojo returned to playing with the blocks on the floor with Sarah, who seemed to enjoy throwing them rather than building anything, while Ella changed another of Daniels soiled undergarments. Anne made her way to the main floor and was greeted by Mr. Barry. Good morning, Your Grace, he said. You are rather cheery this morning, Mr. Barry, considering His Grace has added to your duties for the next few days. He smiled. He promised coin, Your Grace. I dont think it will be a hardship. Oh, a letter was delivered for you this morning. He picked up a folded note and handed it to her. Anne noticed the red horse-head seal affixed to the missive before it touched her fingers. She smiled and nodded before turning away from Mr. Barry. She slipped into the drawing room, slightly dark on this side of the house. Once the door was closed, she tore at the seal and spread the note open. I know what you did. She crumpled the note into a tiny ball and walked directly to the fireplace. She
74

Wicked Temptation

searched for the flint along the mantel. Her fingers knocked it to the floor and it bounced underneath the settee. Asking Mr. Barry for assistance was out of the question. Cooks kitchen fire would be burning strong. Dazed, Anne left the room, walked by the open door to the dining room where she saw Rand reading the morning paper, and marched into the kitchen. Cook stopped and glanced at her. Your Grace? Anne ignored him and went to the fire. She threw the wadded note onto the hot coals and it burst into flames, disintegrating in a matter of seconds. She took a deep breath and pressed her hand to her stomach. What was his game? She now wished Randall had beat him to a bloody pulp when he was here the other day. Your Grace, may I get you something? Monsieur LeBlanc asked, his French accent pronounced. No. Thank you. Very well, he said, returning to the bread kneading that a helper would normally do. Anne stopped outside the kitchen door. She had hoped it was a cruel jokethat nothing further would come of the implied threat. Outwardly calm, her insides were quivering. Nausea burned in her stomach, only made more disturbing by the alarming beat of her heart. She breathed deep and closed her eyes, leaning her head against the wood-grained wall. She heard Rands chair scrape against the floor so she hurried to the dining room. Her smile was perfectly in place when she stepped though the doorway. Shed find a way to deal with this without disappointing her husband. And hopefully, without him ever finding out. Oh there you are, he said before sitting back down, flipping the back of his jacket away as he did so. And the children are ready for this painful excursion? he asked. Are you worried you wont have any fun? Rest assured that Joseph has the same concern. She kept her gaze firmly fixed on his face. Hes a child. They always have fun. Rand picked up the paper again and returned to his meal. Anne rubbed at her temples a moment before Cook entered carrying a tray for her. He placed three plates in front of hermore food than she needed certainlybut her stomach didnt seem interested in any of the deliciouslooking fare. She hadnt told anyone what had happened to the Duke of Pelham, Randalls grandfather. His aged body had given out, collapsed in a heap, his head bashed against the fireplace as he crumpled after an explosive display of his temper. Touching him afterward had been the hardest thing. Hatred for her had radiated from every pore of his body, but she had to touch him to see if he was truly dead or if she must call for help.
75

Eliza Lloyd

When she confirmed he was dead, she had, in a panic, realized that her presence in the room would cast suspicion on his death. The former duke had made no secret of his open disdain for Anne. She had slipped out and cowered in her room, imagining all of the possible ways her life would be ruined over this. Namely, that Rand would set her aside, have their marriage annulled or worse. Newgate wasnt a particularly cozy place for convicted murderesses. In the interminable few weeks after his death, she had acquired a new appreciation for what she had. Since then, she had not taken anything for granted. The new emotional attachment to her husband was what made her past decision so diabolically unfair now. She had so much more to lose. Rand had been right. He hadnt just made her happier, hed made her life whole. Not that she wasnt a happy person to begin with, but she had found her own ways to be content. He had brought her joy, even then, before she recognized she was in love with him. She laughed at his witticisms and felt peace just being in the same room with him. She was under no delusions about why hed wanted her. She entertained him in ways that men liked to be entertained. When hed proposed, he had already told her why he wanted her. She appreciated that kind of forthrightness, and once shed secured his word as a gentleman, and a written contract for her peace of mind, shed given him what he had wanted and had made sure hed wanted her more after the first week together. Anne had never had that kind of forthrightnessnot when her security was at stake. She wasnt going to lose him. By eleven, they were all at the park, Mr. Barry somehow having managed to prepare the open carriage. Rand insisted she sit beside him, though Jojo was cuddled in between them, leaning toward his papa. Ella held Daniel while Sarah sat on the edge of her seat sucking her thumb, until the carriage shot forward and she cracked her head on the backseat. Anne lifted the crying child to her lap and Sarah settled at once. Determined pain stabbed at Annes heart. She would do whatever it took to keep them together. This was her family now.

*****
Rand attempted to be more than the stiff-upper-lipped English aristocrat. Watching the children play did bring a certain pride knowing that his lineage would continue. Joseph was remarkably likeable, imitating Rand at times in the way he stood or the way he gave an order to his little sister. After much searching for just the right stone, Rand showed him the proper way to throwskipping it over the water. Sarah, to whom he

76

Wicked Temptation

could not relate, tended to look up at him, blinking her large eyes, holding fast to a tattered blanket and sucking on her thumb. Grass also seemed of particular interest to her. At some point, Daniel was thrust into his embrace. Rand held the child at arms length. The youngest also seemed enamored of his thumb. The stench was particularly eye watering. Surely, no seed of mine could be so grossly offensive. And this attire, he glanced at the sagging, wet undergarments, is unbecoming of a gentleman. Anne giggled, made her way across the grass and relieved him of the burden. She turned away and allowed Mrs. Wallsy to proceed with the changing. Ella scurried off toward the carriage to affect a cleansing remedy. Rand had a mind to dip him in the Serpentine. Three men on horseback descended upon his domestic tranquility. Rand was only familiar with the lead rider, who dismounted and strode toward him. Redding. Might I have a word, Your Grace? Rand noticed with considerable satisfaction the cut lip and the blue-green mottling of the mending bruise. We have nothing to say. Your Grace, would you excuse us? Redding said directly to Anne. She opened her mouth to speak, then pressed her lips together and turned away. Privately, Redding said. Rand noticed the other two men dismount. Both removed their hats, making their bows to the duchess. He took a few steps away. Redding followed. What is it, Redding? Unless you wish to apologize for your behavior, we really have nothing to discuss. One word against my wife and I will see you at dawn. Redding clasped his hands behind his back. That is exactly what I wish to do. Pistols at dawn? Lud, you are a trigger-happy arse. I came to offer my apologies. Not that youll accept them. I was obviously in the wrong and wanted to apologize to you and Lady Pelham. The fault was mine. The misunderstanding was mine. Rand puzzled over Reddings words. Surprised, firstly. Secondly, wondering what the hell Anne had said to encourage his visit to the house, and in such a way that Redding thought it was an invitation to a cuckolding. Over the earls shoulder, Rand glanced at Anne as she spoke with one of the gentlemen, whom she touched on the sleeve of his arm. A bee distracted her and she fanned it away with a flick of her hand. He should be used to her affectionate, flirtatious nature. He wasnt. The other man

77

Eliza Lloyd

seemed interested in encouraging Jojo to throw a stick at the ducks. What exactly did my wife say? Only that she wished to see me. I am confounded, Lord Redding. That doesnt seem to be an indictment against my wife. As I said, I misunderstood. Redding was being polite, contrite even, still it gnawed at Rand that he was missing an integral piece of the puzzle. Redding had known Anne for many years, perhaps had known her well leading up to and during the betrothal to the earls father. There would have been many opportunities to approach Anne before now. Rand laughed. You poor bastard. Redding clamped his jaw together. You wanted her. Your father had her. Quite a dilemma. So shes married to another man and now you can pursue her. It was all so clear now. Redding, at least, had not dishonored his father, not that Rand had any respect for James Chase. I thought she was finally agreeing to my proposal, Redding said with a curt admission. Well, now that that is cleared up, perhaps you would do us all a great courtesy and leave her alone? I dont think I will be as forbearing, if there is a next time. Your Grace. Redding bowed and returned to his companions. Rand followed. He had always liked Redding, who was eager for cards, horse racing and myriad other manly pursuits Rand enjoyed. Perhaps it should come as no surprise that they would both be so foolish over the same woman, only Rand had won her. And he would not give her up willingly. However, it was hellish nuisance to beat back the would-be contenders who thought marriage vows were to be trampled on whenever the mood struck. Was she the bee sipping from every flower? Or was she the flower, attracting every bee to the scent of her blossom? She was all animation as she talked to the three gentlemen, but stood a respectable distance from Redding. The queen bee, wary but still preening for the drones. At least he knew where the honey was. His mind flitted back to his near-empty house, his very delectable honeybee of a wife and embedding his swollen stinger in her flesh. He hadnt grown tired of asserting his husbandly rights just yet.

78

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Seven
They had returned to their townhouse in the early afternoon. The knees of Josephs trousers were muddied. Sarahs nose was a bit pink. Daniel had only fussed when he was hungry or dirty, otherwise crawling or running and falling in the grass, amused by anything he could put in his mouth. The house seemed tomblike without all the bustle of maids and footmen. Rand had worked on accounts while Anne sat in the library with him and embroidered a pillowcase before picking up a novel. Whatever Redding had said seemed to have smoothed over the fragile situation. Rand hadnt said a word about it, while Redding had kept his distance with his gaze shuttered. The contents of the note were surely an attempt at blackmail. It had to be. Money she had, and if the person threatening her would make his demands, this splinter in her hide could be removed. At the last minute, they had decided to attend the Foresters ball, since they had been otherwise occupied for several nights. They were late in arriving as the carriage once again required Mr. Barrys full attention. Once on their way, Anne remembered her conversation at the park. Rand, surely you can do something. You are a duke. The poor man has lost his living at a small parish in Somerset. While Redding had talked to Randall, Anne had been stirred by the plight of the vicar without a parish, as a man with a more important patron had usurped his place. Let Redding do something. The vicar is Reddings cousin, after all. You are right. It was just such a tale of woe, I couldnt help but be moved. I noticed there were no other dukes, or peers of any rank, at the park playing with their children. Thats because other dukes are too old and fat to get out of their carriages. As for the other peers, they are depriving themselves of joy. You did enjoy the outing? I know you did. She pressed her hand to his sleeve, but also pressed her bosom to his arm, displaying a wealth of her fleshy breasts. Rand didnt seem to notice. Well, at least I have discovered why we ignore our children and then send them off to boarding school. Why is that? Its not good for a dukes ego to watch his progeny eating grass, knowing they are defenders of the dukedom. I dont think the children even noticed I was there. The way Joseph kept asking me did you see, did you see? Id think he thought I was blind as
79

Eliza Lloyd

well as invisible. Hes only four. And a half. The world still fascinates him. But the important thing was that you were there and he will remember that you were there. I think I shall take Jojo riding again tomorrow. I promised him, and I suppose I ought to deliver, or thirty years from now he will accuse me of neglect. Thirty years from now, Jojo is going to be saying do you remember the day at the park? not did you see, did you see? Rand hmpfed, but leaned back in the carriage, a satisfied smile on his face. Lord and Lady Forester were lavish hosts. A red flowing rug led from the walkway to the front door of their home. Several liveried footmen stood at the front of the home assisting guests from the carriages and attempting to keep the clutch of vehicles from jamming up the roadway. The grand chandelier in the front foyer sparkled overhead with the lights of hundreds of candles. After the Duke and Duchess of Pelham were announced, the Foresters and two of their married daughters warmly greeted their arriving guests. Your Grace. Your Grace. The Forester entourage all bowed and curtsied. Anne nodded her head as Randall led her down the sweeping staircase into the crowded ballroom. She hadnt been a duchess that long. It was still hard to believe that peers all over London were bowing and scraping to her. No one turned with accusatory glares at their prolonged absence from ton events, nor did anyone shout murderess as she passed by. The Earl and Countess of Dunnaway were the first to engage them. Your Graces, the earl said, while Clarissa grasped Annes hand and then kissed both of her cheeks. Her friend swept her away, leaving their husbands to themselves. Over her shoulder, Anne caught sight of Randall, his gaze hooded yet undeniably staring at her bare back. Has your henhouse problem been resolved? Clarissa whispered. Not yet, Anne said. But soon. Oh good. We will gossip first and later you will tell me all about it. You must, you absolutely must see Lady Addingtons new gown. A new French designer. You will be green with envy, I promise. Should I steal her away? A him. A Monsieur Planchette, and as Lady Addington says, he and his hands are divine. Im shocked, Lady Dunnaway. What would the earl say? Look, but dont touch. Clarissa smiled broadly. Anne thought her friend hadnt ever looked so happy. I fully intend to see his wares this coming week. Will you be

80

Wicked Temptation

joining me? Oh if I must, arbiter of fashion that I am. I suspect that if you order one of his gowns, the poor man will be in raptures. And my own dear Madame Dumas will have palpitations if she hears of my defection. Anne wore one of her French dressmakers designs tonight. Anne had never worn such a sumptuous dress that was both beautiful and arousingto her. A low-cut bodice with ribbing built into the style for support. The back of the dress was scandalously low, yet easy to put on without the usual accoutrements of stays and chemise. The red douppioni silk of her skirt swished against her thighs in an undulating rhythm that had her anxious for their home and bed. They circled half the ballroom, visiting with everyone, pointed questions asked of Anne why they hadnt been seen about town before she and Clarissa split upClarissa called away by her husband to dance, Anne visiting with Maureen Elgin. Amazingly, even after not attending one event for three days, the conversations hadnt changed. Louis Ederline skillfully found his way to her side and convinced her to dance. His hand settled suspiciously low on her bare back as a waltz started. Ederline was an unrepentant old lecher but basically harmless, and one could almost admire the man as a patron of the arts. On one of the circuits about the room, she caught a glimpse of the Earl of Redding, holding court with a bevy of single women. Hovering in the background were the mothers and chaperones of said eligible ladies, unwilling to let their daughters fall victim to the earls charms. Or deceptions. He glanced up at her, catching her gaze, before Ederline waltzed her away. Shed have to speak to Redding, but didnt think tonight would be appropriate. Randall would not necessarily be watching her, but he would be watching for Redding to make the smallest error in judgment. Once the dance was complete, Ederline escorted her to the refreshment room where Anne selected a sweet punch that tasted suspiciously of warm rum. Ederline forced a second glass on her, insisting the heat would cause her to faint if she didnt drink up. Anne looked for a polite escape and turned toward the arched doorway, looking for a familiar face to whisk her to freedom. The face she saw was maybe the last person on earth she expected. Her heart leapt in happiness and tears came to her eyes. Louis, darling. You must excuse me. I see someone with whom I must speak. Anne pushed through the crowd, one hand on the silk of her skirt lifting it away so she could maneuver. The lean, muscular baron looked much the same as she had seen him last. Simple elegance, understated tastes and she hoped, oh how she hoped, he was still the man she had known. She placed her hand on his sleeve. Alexander? Baron Preston? Alex turned toward the sound of his name. He clearly hadnt been expecting her either. His face registered a moment of shock and then a deep smile broke out of his

81

Eliza Lloyd

face. Anne, he said softly, nearly choking her with the sound of his affection. My God, Anne. Excuse meYour Graceyou lookastounding. He clutched her hands and kissed the back of each in turn. Then he did something nearly unheard ofhe kissed her cheek. Anne inhaled the familiar scent and was suddenly whisked to a time and place where she had meant something to someone. Not just for her body. For herself. They stared at each other for a moment and then laughed. Anne had had great affection for the baron. Aside from Rand, he had been the kindest man she had ever known. An earnest and devoted lover. A faithful friend. In the end, they had known they could not marry. How Anne knew that she couldnt say. Aside from his necessity for children, she had known that they werent meant to be together. No more than she could say why, after a week, she knew she had to be with Randall VanLandingham. Is there a place we can talk? Privately? he asked. Of course. It has been too long. I hadnt heard you were in town. Just this past month. For business. And pleasure, he said as Anne led him toward an adjacent hallway. The library is just through here, she said, pointing ahead. Have you been introduced to my husband? she asked. The duke? Yes, that is the man to whom I am married. I wasnt sure what you had told him. Sometimes those things are best kept in the past. Oh he knows. Seeing Alexander now gave Anne a sense of peace, having revealed the truth of her past liaisons to Rand. Their chance meeting now seemed less sordid than it might have if Rand were still in the dark, merely conjuring up dreaded possibilities, as opposed to the actual truth. The library was vacant but well lit, with single candle stems and three large candelabra around the room. The shelves were loaded with leather-bound tomes from floor to ceiling, and the two wooden desks were polished to a shine. A hint of beeswax and cigar smoke lingered in the air. There were three groupings of chairs and couches. Anne went to one of the plush couches in the middle of the room while Baron Preston settled in the chair nearest to her. Anne touched his arm again. Alex, it is so good to see you. And you. You are radiant. I think that, at last, you have found some well-deserved happiness. Her eyes brimmed with tears. I love him so. I would never have imagined feeling

82

Wicked Temptation

thisthis deep emotional attachment to anyone. How does one describe this feeling of both infantile helplessness and great power? Anne didnt know. She had never felt love to this aching depth before. I have always thought that man, whoever he would be, would be most fortunate to have you. And does he feel the same way? You should not ask such questions. You arent one of my gossipy friends to poke and prod until I confess all. This is a ton marriage, Alex. One takes what one can get. He clutched her fingers. I have missed you terribly. Last winter seemed particularly lonely. Im so sorry. Youve not found someone else? No, Anne. You were the sin of indulgence that infected my very blood. It was for the best. It was, but being a mortal man, it is sometimes hard to come to terms with what the body wants and what the mind knows. And I shouldnt say that I am without prospects. That is why I am here in London. A particular young lady is considering my suit. I think she and her family are agreeable. He smiled shyly at the end. Anne thought he was pleased at the prospect. Oh Alex, I am so happy for you. She was, but there was that little ping of jealousy stinging her heart, reminding her that Alexander Preston was a very, very good man and deserving of an even better woman for a wife. Someone much more pure of heart and innocent in the ways of men. Do tell me about her. I want to know every detail. If I find the slightest lack of character in the woman, I will move heaven and earth to stop this marriage. She is lovely, Anne. Helene Cosgrove, Viscount Cosgroves second daughter. Pure as the driven snow. Presumably. Hopefully, he said. Anne sat back on the couch upon hearing the name. Perhaps it was the two glasses of alcoholic punch, but Anne felt wistful. Alex was a country baron, happy laboring away with his tenants to build a life for them all. His children would sprout like weeds from their loins. They would be loved. His wife cherished. I know her. She will be perfect for you. Youve smote me to the quick choosing such a woman. In her brightness, I am a mere shadow. Never that, Anne. You and the duke will come to the wedding? I would be honored. Anne felt a choking sensation in her chest. It was happiness for a friend. No, I am honored. When will this grand event take place? In the fall. That is, if she says yes. She will. She will. Anne stood. Baron Preston stood quickly out of courtesy. Come, I must introduce you to Pelham.

83

Eliza Lloyd

*****
Randall downed another glass of brandy before nodding at something Lord Forester was saying about a recent race at Newmarket. He tried to tell himself it wasnt jealousy, only anger, that gnawed at him as Anne led a stranger down the hallway. He wasnt going after her. He wasnt. If she was interested in fucking every man walking, how would he stop her? He had answered the bee and the flower question though. She was the flower. The perfect bloom that everyone had to pluck, or fuck. The trophy for ones mantel. The mountain that had to be climbed. The lover one had to experience or die trying. Damn, he couldnt kill every man in town. Nor could he chain himself to her side to prevent the inevitable. Or keep his cock permanently embedded in her cunt, much as that prospect nearly had him smiling. Nor could he keep her tied to his bedtrying had only led to his feeling like a brute. Anne may have had only five lovers, if she was telling the truth. But she had led dozens upon dozens of men down the path of ruin. Of wanting. Of misery. Hell, look at Redding. Lusting after his fathers betrothed. Rand should have apologized to him. Im sorry, chap, but my wife has the sexual appetites of a man and you were caught in her well-laid trap. He waved at a passing footman and plucked a drink from the silver tray. Anne chose that inopportune time to sweep through the hallway door, a gentleman in tow. Her radiant smile tore at his heart. He gulped down the drink and set the glass aside before he broke the fragile stem with his bare hand. When he recognized the man, Rands vision went red. He didnt move. All blushing radiance, Anne smiled with artful deceit as she approached him. Your Grace, she said. Id like to introduce Baron Preston. Alex, this is Randall VanLandingham, Pelham, my husband. She smiled at Alex, barely even glancing in Rands direction. Both of her hands were securely wrapped around Prestons arm. I wanted you to meet him. Rand glared at Anne. What made you think I was interested in meeting one of your former lovers? Annes smile disappeared and her cheeks turned red. She pressed her lips together, preparing to give him a scold. One he was ready for her to deliver. He felt like a brawl. With Preston, sure. With his wife, definitely. Perhaps this isnt a good time, the baron said. A good time? Rand asked. Yes, she is that. Would you excuse us, she said to Preston, forcing an apologetic smile, which fueled Rands temper further. There was nothing to apologize for. Preston nodded and murmured something about the late hour, slipping unobtrusively into the crowd.

84

Wicked Temptation

Anne stood, proud and defiant. Good night, Your Grace. She whipped her skirts away and turned her back on him. Where are you going? He grabbed her arm. She leaned close to him, enticing him with the low-cut bodice and the plentiful breasts she had displayed for every man in the room. She whispered through clenched teeth, In case you havent noticed, we are in the middle of a ballroom and every person in the room is listening to your remarkably impolite manners. Baron Preston did not deserve to be cut, but you, sir, deserve to be flogged. She turned abruptly and headed toward the double doors. Oh, she was not walking away from him. He followed, doggedly attempting to catch up with her, though his feet seemed unwilling to move faster than a snails pace. The crowd did part to allow the passage of the duke and his duchess. Finally, he grabbed her arm, forcing her to stop. She said nothing, only glared at him. If you are still interested in fucking your baron, I wont stop you. Its obvious you are still in love with the man. Just because you could fuck any woman in London and have no feelings afterward doesnt mean I can do the same to every man. You, sir, are a cad. She turned away from him. Again. She marched up the ballroom stairs, nodding at Lady Forester, who wore a look of concern that the duke and duchess were leaving under a cloud of displeasure. Lady Forester, would you be so good as to have my carriage called? The lady moved away quickly, not wanting to be part of the ensuing imbroglio with a peer such as Pelham, he was sure. Where are you going? Home. Youre not leaving without me, he ordered, not that the wench would obey him. I will be sure to send the carriage back, tempted as I am to make you walk home. Clarissa Dunnaway, the outwardly demure and ridiculously happy countess, approached Anne, lending her reinforcement just at a time when he felt woefully inadequate to handle his wayward wife. Youre leaving? she asked, peering at Randall with undeserved suspicion. Why was he the villain in this melodrama? Yes, Anne said. Its been a long day. Ill call in the morning. Please do. Anne kissed the side of Clarissas cheek but didnt bother with a byyour-leave for him. A footman handed her a shawl of red and gold that she swept over her shoulders, covering the enticing area of her bare back that he had wanted to touch each time she

85

Eliza Lloyd

turned away from him. Lud, he was a fool. How long would he go on lusting after his wife? John Garnette watched as the duke and duchess exited the ballroom. It was about time someone other than himself recognized the duchess for the Babylonian whore that she was. Hed overheard her conversation with Prestonone more man lured to destruction by the strange woman. How many men would be poisoned by her influence? How many men had died because of their association with her? Tonight, she even wore the attire of a harlot, subtle of heart, deceiving everyone but him. Rand followed her out the door, latching on to her elbow as they descended the exterior marble staircase. Their carriage was waiting with the door held open by one of the Foresters footmen. Anne hoisted her skirts while the footman held her hand as she ascended. Rand put his hands at her waist and lifted her, following on her heels, slamming the door shut behind them. Before she positioned her skirts, he put an arm around her waist and pulled her into his lap. She was stiff as a board. Unhand me. No. He slid his hand under her shawl, feeling the warmth of her skin causing tingles to run up his arm and spread over his chest. Go ahead. You want to scold. I would not dignify your behavior with a scold. So youll do something more vindictive like withhold sex until Im sufficiently chastened. What is wrong with you? Is the Duke of Pelham mad at the world? The man who has everything I dont have everything. Oh? Name one thing. Randall clamped his mouth shut, unwilling to say the damning words. I have never been more embarrassed. Ah, here is the scold. Go ahead. Lay me low. No one knew about me and Baron Preston. Only you. Now you will have started up a whole new round of gossip just as people were starting to forget, starting to think I might not be so wicked as Clifton and Ettiger claimed. Her bottom was pressed into his groin and shed yet to notice his growing erection or she would have scrambled from his lap. Damn her. She was not going to shift the blame to him. She, who pranced about ballrooms practically naked, enticing men of all stripes to pant after her. She was Salom, Bathsheba, Cleopatraall rolled into one
86

Wicked Temptation

wicked temptation. He shifted his knee and Anne tipped backward with a gasp, grabbing at his arm for support. He turned as well, sliding to his knees between her legs. He ruched up the skirts. Anne didnt fight him, but he could hear the difference in her breathing. Fumbling at his trousers, he slipped the buttons and proceeded to free his cock, which had grown hard wanting to tame his duchess. He was happiest in this place, between her legs, where he understood her, where he wasnt troubled by the conflicting thoughts and emotions that seemed to confuse him at all other times. He gripped the root, canted his hips and brushed the tip of his cock through the velvety, soft wetness of her cunt. At the contact, his cock swelled with wanting. Your body wont say no, will it? Nor would his. Breathless need pulsed inside him. He had to have her now. The bulbous tip of his cock slipped into her. Her sweet cunt contracted, pulling him forcefully inward. He plunged hard and deep, gasping at the nearly intoxicating rush of pleasure that swept him, from his cock into every nerve and pore of his body. Anne moaned underneath him. His hands reached for the material of her gown that barely covered her shoulders, sliding the silken mass downward. Her lush round breasts came into view, glistening in the dim light streaming into the carriage. He pushed in and out of her again before bending and covering her breast with his mouth. He slid one of his hands down her leg and lifted it, bracing her foot against the carriage seat. The familiar rush of his orgasm built, too soon. He pulled away from her breast, trying to control his reaction. Shit. He yanked his cock out, hoping the cool night air would douse some of his hot-blooded need. His chest heaved as he tried to catch some air. Bracing his hands against the soft squabs of the carriage seat, he hung his head and closed his eyes. Anne slid her fingers around his wet cock, starting a thorough stroke up and down the length of his erection. Dont. Not yet. Youre going too fast. So? Isnt that what you want? A quick, satisfying fuck? Dont worry, Ive already had Baron Preston tonight, and he gave me several orgasms while we were in Lady Foresters library. Did you know she has a mural of Botticellis angels painted on the ceiling? He shoved back into her and enjoyed the intensity of her reaction. When his cock rammed into the top of her sheath, she gasped and then had the gall to laugh at him. He jerked his hips, slamming into her again. Hes not as big as you are though, she gasped. Thats why I always have to come back to you. Rands vision blurred as his balls lifted and tightened.

87

Eliza Lloyd

Redding is though, and he can go all night. She slipped her fingers between their bodies and gripped the root of his cock, sending blinding shock through his system, stopping his ejaculation cold. You tempting bitch. Who gets to have her orgasm first? Rand groaned, jerking his hips away and using his hands to spread her thighs. His mouth descended on her cunt, the sharp scent of arousal driving him toward madness. She wanted an orgasm and Rand knew her body well enough to know howquickly and thoroughly. He drew the swollen clit into his mouth and lavished it with attention, both sucking and swirling his tongue around the sensitive flesh. He clasped her hips and pulled her ass farther off the seat. His mouth kept a firm suction in place. His free hand slipped between her legs, his long fingers sliding into the crevice of her ass. His cock ached, standing hard and ready, for the moment her orgasm took hold. His finger circled the tight puckered sphincter. Anne tensed under him, gasping for breath. Oh yes. Do it. Dont stop. If he had any sort of willpower, he would have stopped in a heartbeat. Just to keep her on the edge. Just to keep her wanting. But there was a point when he could not turn back and he had passed it. Nothing short of force would stop him now. Pushing his finger into her ass, Rand heard Annes gasping excitement. Her hips undulated underneath him. He braced one hand against her stomach. She surged upward, a low scream building in her. Rand shoved his cock into her again and felt the white-hot sensation of her contractions caressing the length of his cock, drawing him deep and milking the rush of semen from his body. He jerked, his body under the complete spell of his temptress wife. The moment his cock shriveled and slipped from her body, the plaguing thoughts returned. What was he going to do with his wife?

88

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Eight
Anne lay unsleeping on a cot in the childrens room. Rand was foxed and needed sleep. Shed sent for Winslow, knowing the house needed to return to order. Again her presence and Rands reaction to herdisrupting what should have been an orderly transition to his ducal duties. They had had months of reckless abandon, culminating in last nights juvenile display. How must Alexander be feeling tonight? If it got back to the Cosgroves that Alexander had been cut by the Duke of Pelham, perhaps they would think something amiss with the barons character. And the notes. Nothing untoward had happened this evening, but she couldnt help but feel her time was slipping away. In the morning, Anne dressed quietly and ate breakfast with the children. Near nine, they all walked to the park. Ella carried a bag of toys that included a sailboat, some balls, a blanket and sundry other towels and clothes for accidents. Her helper, Tina, came along since there were three children to keep an eye on. Tina pushed the three-wheeled baby carriage that held Daniel, while Jojo marched at his own pace, running ahead and falling behind with equal irritation. Sarah was between Tina and Anne, her hands secure as she was lifted over puddles or dog messes. It was the second day in a row without rain, and the sky was as blue as any day in recent memory, the usual city smells of London seemingly diminished by the beauty of the day. Joseph came to a running stop in front of her and pointed back toward the park. Mama, why dont I have a kite? I dont know. Are you old enough to take care of one? Of course. Look. I wish I could fly that high. They all stopped to stare in the direction Joseph pointed. A colorful kite tail whipped around above the tree line. You will have to ask your father when you return home. I will, he said, then took off running again, his arms spread wide as if he were the one flying. Several families, mostly governesses and children, already occupied the park, and they stopped to visit with those families with which Anne was familiar. The little ones were fascinated by other little ones, especially the babies. Dont poke, Sarah. Sarah grinned around her thumb but kept on sucking. She still wasnt a big talker. They found a warm spot near the water and spread their blankets. Daniel was lifted

89

Eliza Lloyd

from the carriage and proceeded directly to the water, tottering along the rough patch of grass with each step. Tina was put in charge of scampering after him in an attempt to keep him from drowning. Anne reclined on the blanket with an open parasol, protecting her skin from the already overly warm rays. She opened the novel she had been reading. Her mind wasnt completely occupied by the written word. She found her thoughts drifting toward last nights debacle with Rand. Maybe her reputation was too much to overcome. She hadnt set out to make Rand jealous. In fact, he had nothing to be jealous of. No man compared to him. Not Reddings sensual nature or Baron Prestons goodness. Or any of the dozen other titled gentlemen who might have been suitable for a proper business marriage. She hoped when Rand woke that he would regret his treatment of Baron Preston. She hoped he had a headache worthy of repentance. Anne turned the page, not sure she had even absorbed the last paragraph. She glanced around to see that everyone was close and that Joseph was pushing the sailboat along the waters edge with a long, thin stick. Sarah watched, holding one of her shoes in her hand. With a determined toss, the leather shoe went flying into the water. Sarah! Anne yelled. She scrambled up and hurried to the edge of the water where the shoe still floated. She squatted and leaned forward, attempting to fish if from the bracken depths. Joseph came rushing up. I shall get it, Mama. He used his stick and gently pushed the floating shoe toward the shore. Anne clapped. Oh bravo, Joseph. Jojo leaned over and snatched it from the water. Papa will be very angry with you. He wagged his finger at Sarah, who reached for her shoe and laughed when water sprayed over her pinafore. Its cold, she said. And dirty, Anne said in agreement. Run along, Joseph. You need to watch your boat. His eyes got round, realizing hed forgotten his toy, and he ran to retrieve it. Papa wont be mad, Sarah said, in the longest conversation Anne had had with her daughter. No, he wont. Papas in England did not notice when their children were dirty, especially not when the papa was a duke. Ella Wallsy, however, came along and scolded Sarah good as she directed the child back to the blanket and proceeded to clean up the mess. Anne sat on the bank wondering how her troubled existence seemed to hinge on the whim of others. Had she reached too high? Had she dared to trespass upon the hallowed grounds of the nobility, marrying into the wrong family, offending some blue-blooded puritan? Had she made enemies? She was not so sure of Rands devotion to her or to the marriage should she reveal
90

Wicked Temptation

the truth about his grandfathers death. Would it make her seem grasping? Deceitful? Untrustworthy? Unlovable? The urgency of their sexual relationship would fade with time. He had said her age didnt matter. Of course it didnt. Not while he was unlacing her corset. She hadnt loved Rand when the old duke had died. Then it had only been about protecting what was hers. And now she was even more desperate to protect her unexpected treasures. Anne reached for the original note, ever present, a reminder of why she had to move forward with caution. She glanced over her shoulder and then opened the tattered letter, spreading it over her knee. The perfect handwriting, graceful and flowing, bore no hint of maliceonly the words threatened her. Why hadnt Redding met her? Why had he acted so unknowing? Your Grace. Anne glanced up at Ella, who had just freed Sarah to create more chaos. I thought youd be wanting your book. You dropped it running after Sarah. Anne accepted it with one hand while sliding the note into the folds of her skirt with the other. Oh yes. Thank you very much. Ella went to her knees beside her. Its good youre wanting to mother them. Anne opened the book, pretending interest, and slid the note inside. They are lovely children. They seem to miss their mother. Oh I dont know about that. Joseph might remember her vaguely. There isnt anyone around to remind him of his loss. Children never forget their mother. What they will never forget is love, Your Grace. Ella pushed up, her knees cracking with the effort. Anne sat there, missing Rand, sorry that she hadnt told the truth on the day it happened, sorry she hadnt said I love you the very moment the thought entered her mind. Loving him should not cause such fear. Loving him should make her want to set things right. She had not been prepared for the confusion that came with one-sided love. The morning sun turned warmer. Sarah and Daniel were both on the blanket fighting off sleep. Wheres Joseph? Anne asked, glancing toward the lake where he had been playing. He was just there, by those trees, not a minute ago, Ella answered, pointing toward the grove. Tina jumped up from her spot in the grass. Ill fetch him, Your Grace. No. Let me. I need to stretch my legs anyhow. Perhaps we should be making our way home shortly?

91

Eliza Lloyd

Yes, Your Grace, Tina said, bobbing a quick curtsey as Anne turned toward the bend in the Serpentine and the copse of trees beyond. Anne saw the flash of color overhead as a kite dipped and soared higher. Joseph had probably followed the mesmerizing tail, hoping for his own kite someday. Joseph, Anne called. The kite was farther away than she thought. Boys. Always curious and adventurous. She remembered her brothers love for the outdoors, especially anything with a dangerously sharp incline. She needed to write home soon. Or maybe do as Rand suggested and actually visit. Anne stopped in her tracks and took a step back from where shed come. Shed left her note inside her book. How could she be so careless? She patted her hand over her chest. It would be okay. At the very worst, they would pack the book into Daniels carriage with everything else. She felt a renewed sense of urgency in finding Jojo and walked faster. If she hurried, she could get back and hide the note away once again. Or better yet, destroy it, as she had destroyed the other one. Joseph! she called again. A man stepped from the trees carrying her son. There you are, she cried. Oh thank you, sir, for finding my son. She glanced at Josephs pale face and then at the man holding him. She smiled, but the movement felt as stiff as death. Mr. Garnette, what are you doing here?

*****
Winslow? Is that you? Rand buried his face in the fluffy pillow, trying to block out the unidentifiable and extremely irritating noise. A hive of bees had been let loose in his head. Indeed. Rand rolled over, squeezing his eyes shut and tossing back the covers. He was on fire. What are you doing here? Your wife sent for me. She said she would not be the one cleaning up your slop in the morning. I think those were her exact words, Your Grace. A bit of a headache, have we? Rand kept his eyes closed, fearful of any sudden movement, though his hearing seemed particularly sensitive and his stomach lurched as if he stood braced on the deck of a schooner in thirty-foot swells. Winslow, I can hear your schoolmarmish scolding from here. Thats just your guilty conscience. And the laborers in the next room. Get me something to drink. And make them go away. How did your wife put up with you for two days? She loves me and youre just on my payroll. Fetch the drink now. Anne. Lud, what had he said to Anne last night? The expression on her face when
92

Wicked Temptation

hed cut Preston in front of a room full of gossipy old biddieswell, he did not want to see that look again and his apology would involve that ruby and diamond bracelet hed intended to buy for her at Christmas. Shit. Winslow! Coming. Where is my wife? She, the governess and that silly helper of hers all went to the park this morning, Your Grace. Rand half turned and accepted the brandy with barely a splash at the bottom of the glass. He swallowed the contents and waggled the glass at Winslow, instructing him with the pretentious movement to get him more. What time are they expected? Not until lunch. A few more hours, sir. Good. He wasnt ready to face Anne with his apology until he was better prepared, not thoroughly foxed and groveling at her feet. The bracelet would be conveniently wrapped and ready to present once the words of apology were spoken. He ran a hand through his hair and rolled to a sitting position, his hands cradling his head while his world steadied. Your bath is drawn, Your Grace. Rand nodded and tried to stand. Winslow checked him, bracing a hand against his shoulder. Perhaps you would like me to remove your boots and clothing before the bath, sir. Glancing at his feet and legs, he saw that he was still fully dressed, except that his jacket had been removed and lay tossed over the back of a chair. No wonder he felt as though hed been run over. After the bath, Winslow had him turned out to perfection, though there was nothing Winslow could do for the red-rimmed eyes and dull throbbing at the back of Rands head. She would still be fuming when she returned from the park. He would still be bad-tempered from his drunken binge. They would not be at their best, so he would not be here when they returned for lunch. Tonight would be soon enough to apologize, using all of his considerable skills against all of hers. He actually smiled at the entertaining prospect. Hed better get a matching set of earrings too.

*****
Trouble had a way of nipping at ones heels. Baron Alexander Preston stood in the Bond Street jewelers shop, examining a case of gold rings.
93

Eliza Lloyd

Randall did all of his business with Arvin Shales. His eye for fine jewelry was masterful. Rand got quality merchandise, good terms, and though the prices were high, they could usually be negotiated. Rand was greeted with a loud, Your Grace, how may I be of service? along with toady deference, Shales totally ignoring his current customer. I am in no hurry. Please continue. Baron Preston glanced at him and nodded but did not attempt conversation. The jeweler continued his business with half the enthusiasm, already imagining the purchase Rand would make. Preston pushed the case away. I believe there is nothing here that suits my tastes. Rand stepped in front of him. Might I have a word? If you intend to cut me in front of the jeweler, I believe your audience is singularly uninterested in anything but coin. I wished to apologize for my rude behavior last night. You owe the apology to your wife, sir, not me. Good day. The duchess thinks highly of you. I should not have embarrassed a friend of hers. Again, if you think I have suffered because of last nights imbroglio, think again. Indeed, if all the backslapping at the club is an indication, I am something of a hero to the wagering fools who are delighted at the prospect of knowing who Lady Annes lovers might be. I understand it was a matter of much speculation until you had to confirm it for everyone. It would be one thing if she were your paramour, but she is your wife, sir. As I said, apologies are due. I am to be married in the fall. I will do Anne the courtesy of sending an invitation. Please feel free to decline on her behalf. Preston left the shop, proving again that words can wound as well as any twoedged sword. The ruby and diamond bracelet winked and sparkled on the tray, but suddenly seemed insignificant in relation to his responsibility to her and his depth of remorseful feeling. He bought the bracelet, the necklace and the earrings, knowing it was only a small token of what he really felt, not even bothering to negotiate on the price. Whites club was as welcoming as it had always been. Rand normally played cards at the club a couple of times a week. Today instead, he picked up the daily paper, ordered a tray with tea and biscuits and put his mind to business pursuits, since that seemed to be safe territory. Sometime later, a ruckus at the front door caused Rand to look up. Your Grace, there is a Mr. Barry to see you. Rather urgently, I gather. Rand shoved out of the chair and hurried to the door. Mr. Barry paced, working his hat in a circle. Your Grace.

94

Wicked Temptation

What is it, Barry? You are needed at home, sir. Her Grace and your son have gone missing. Rand gripped Mr. Barrys arm and led him from the club. They loped down the steps and stopped in front of the carriage. What do you mean, gone missing? Ella, Mrs. Wallsy, said your wife followed your son someplace in the park and neither of them came back. Tina and Mrs. Wallsy searched, but they had the other children, so they finally gave up and came home. Well, they cant have gone far. Im sure there was a miscommunication about when or where they were to meet. They are probably home by now. Rand jumped in the carriage while Mr. Barry tied Rands horse to the coach and leapt into the coach after him, all the while reasoning out the possible scenarios for why Anne and Joseph hadnt returned home. How long have they been missing? Three hours, Your Grace. Three hours? We couldnt find you. Rand sat back in the carriage seat. She would be home. Joseph would be home. It was all a misunderstanding. Surely. He tugged at the tightness of his cravat and suffered in the sudden heat of the carriage. With inexplicable certainty, Rand knew he was wrong. We will find them, he said aloud. We will find them. They reached Pelham House fifteen minutes later.

*****
Mr. Garnette, Ill take my son now. She held out her arms. Joseph struggled to reach for her, but Garnette held both of Jojos wrists inside one of his larger, stronger hands. Come with me and I wont hurt him, he said. Let him go, she said, using the haughty duchess voice shed been perfecting. Would you like to see another innocent hurt because of your actions? Anne hesitated, trying to think of a way to free Joseph and get them both to safety. She could not tell if she was even breathing. Everything around her seemed weighted and slow, as if she moved in a dense fog. Joseph, did he hurt you? He shook his head. She watched his mouth and throat as he worked to say some words to her, but fear had gripped him and nothing came out. Im here now. Your mama is here. His round-eyed gaze didnt leave hers. She smiledit was all the assurance she could give him.

95

Eliza Lloyd

Garnette turned away. She had no choice but to follow or risk the possibility of losing Joseph. She glanced around, but there was no one to alert. They were heading west into the forested area of the park along a rough path. She swept her skirts high, trying to keep up. He had known she would follow to protect Joseph. It was you! Of course, he was Reddings cousin, the light of understanding so obvious when one knew the truth. What do you want from me? Be still. I do not want to hear your fair speech and flattering lips. Where are we going? Do you want money? I have money. And jewels. Whatever you want. Just tell me. Im sure the duke would give you any amount of money, if you let the boy go, and Ill go with you. Money? One does not take money when one has a calling. Please let me carry him. Hes afraid. The trees, shrubs and underbrush werent enough for her to hide, if she could get away. But maybe for Joseph, if she could create a suitable diversion. Please. I cant run if I carry him. He stopped, so she took a few quick steps and lifted Joseph from Garnettes arms. Jojo clung to her, his legs about her waist and his arms tight about her neck. He was hot and sweaty, a near dead weight. She didnt know how long she could carry him. Surely she would have enough time to plan something. Go ahead of me. Follow this path and dont say a word. The noise of broken twigs and snagging material. The sound of their harsh breathing. It seemed enough to conceal whispered words to Joseph. Jojo, listen to me. When I set you to the ground, I want you to run. Run as far as you can and then hide. After a few more steps, she caught her breath and whispered additional instructions. Do you understand me? You hide until Ella or your papa comes to find you. No one else. You have to be brave. Very brave, just like when you rode that horse. You run, no matter what Mr. Garnette says. Even if he says hes going to hurt me. She couldnt even give him a reassuring pat. Both of her arms were wrapped under his bottom, trying to keep him in place. Already her arms burned from carrying the weight. I need to know you understand, she whispered. She felt and heard the single word whispered against her neck. Yes. She wanted to think of Rand coming to rescue them, but he wouldnt even know they were gone until it was too late. It was up to her. Up ahead, she saw a waiting carriage and the forest appeared to thin out, opening onto a carriage path. Anne stopped. Hes too heavy. I cant carry him anymore. She let Jojo slide down her body. Garnette stepped around her and she blocked his reach, throwing her body against his. Run, Jojo. Run!
96

Wicked Temptation

Garnette grabbed her by the shoulders and tried to throw her aside. She clung to him as he tried to grab for Joseph. She pushed her leg between his and tripped him. They fell in a tangled heap. He shoved her away, but she clawed at him until her arms were wrapped around his legs, her skirts tearing under the onslaught of broken tree branches and sharp brambles. It was enough to slow Garnette. She caught sight of Joseph running as fast as a four-and-a-half-year-old boy could. He stayed on the path and then disappeared around a turn. Still she held, until Garnette had one leg free, dragging her along. He stopped and swung a booted foot, catching her in the side. Pain such as she had never felt shot through her belly and back. She could only think to hold on tighter, giving Jojo a few more precious seconds to run and to find a safe hiding place. Finally Garnette gave up the struggle and halted in the path. He reached for her, one hand grabbing a handful of her hair, the other wrapping around her upper arm. He forcefully lifted her to her feet. Anne was determined not to cry out. Joseph would be fearful enough without hearing her terror. And as long as Garnette was occupied with her, Joseph would be safe just a little longer. Maybe long enough for help to arrive. Garnette shifted his hands, using one to twist one of her arms behind her back, placing the other around her throat. Do as I say. He marched her forward. She knew a moment of peace that Jojo would be that much farther away if Garnette went to look for him. Had he gotten safely away? Was he hidden or had he found help? Or would Garnette find him if she screamed and Joseph faltered? A scream built inside her. She whimpered, strangling back the urge to plead for mercy, to scream for help. The hand at her throat tightened. Now that Jojo was free, she had to worry about herself. It wouldnt take much to hurt you. Now be silent. What do you want? she dared ask. Her throat burned. The carriage was directly ahead. The red horse head stood in relief on the side of the door, marking it as the Earl of Reddings. She glanced about for a footman or driver, but there was no one. She was utterly alone. Garnette stopped at the forest edge. She felt the tilt of his movement as he glanced each direction before stepping onto the narrow driving path. He snatched at the carriage door, flinging it open. He shoved and lifted, pushing her inside. She landed on her knees, the air knocked from her lungs. The carriage swayed as Garnette stepped inside and then slammed the door shut. Anne glanced up at him. His eyes were open wide, he breathed fast and sweat dappled his brow. He grabbed a cloth rag in one hand and the back of her head with his other. He shoved the linen into her mouth. She shook her head, attempted to turn and fight, but he yanked her head back, knocking her against the seat. Her world spun. Another binding was wrapped around her, tightening against her mouth and forcing the cloth deeper. Panic welled up, and then she felt the first of the tears streaming down her face.
97

Eliza Lloyd

With a quick movement, he entwined a rope around her wrists, knocking her to her side on the carriage floor. Her small, ineffectual resistance did no goodhe only hurt her worse. She tugged at the bindings behind her back. When he grabbed her leg, she kicked. The blow landed right at his knee and he stumbled, nearly crushing her as he went down. His hand landed on her breast and he sucked in a breath of air as if hed been burned. Shameless harlot, he muttered before righting himself, gripping her legs firmly and binding them too. Anne was too scared to struggle now. The bindings tore into her skin. She couldnt get enough air in her lungs. He flipped open the boot under the carriage seat and lifted out a blanket. He draped it over her, the musty smell adding to her fear, and then everything went dark. She felt the blanket being wrapped around her body. Disorientation and dizziness filled her mind. Hed lifted her and then dropped her unceremoniously into the boot of the carriage. The lid closed with a loud bang. Anne couldnt catch her breath. There was no sound. No life. Only the burning of ropes. The stale, heavy air. And the oppressive weight of fear.

98

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Nine
Anne and Joseph werent at Pelham House when Rand returned from Whites. Ella was prostrate in the nursery, sobbing uncontrollably. Tina minded the children, who were fussy, as if they sensed everyone elses dismal mood and deep fear. Most of the servants had already returned to Pelham House. Each of them wore an expression of shock and worry. Finch, his man of affairs, had arrived earlier and had rallied the staff. We must search the park, Rand said. Your Grace, I believe they were kidnapped for ransom. Searching the park would only waste our time and cause undue gossip. Do you think I give a damn about gossip? My wife and son are missing. The servants need something to occupy their hands. Well leave in thirty minutes. Rand needed something to occupy his hands. He could not sit in the library and wait for bad news. Better to face the truth now, no matter what that truth was. His mind raced between thoughts of Joseph to that of Anne. Anne. Were they scared and hurting? Alone? Or worse? He stopped his thoughts cold. Anne was coming home to him. So was Joseph. No other option could be borne. How much cash do we have in the safe? Two thousand, give or take, Your Grace. Thats not enough. Make arrangements with Ezra Silverstein. Interrupt his supper if you must. Ten thousand pounds, at least. But hell charge I dont care. We are talking about my wife and son. Take care of it. What about Bow Street? Involving Bow Street meant it was serious. But it was serious. He rubbed his fingers over his forehead. Yes. Right after you talk with Silverstein. As Finch left, Mr. Barry came in. Ive sent a note to Grosvenor Square, Your Grace. Ive asked them to send anyone they can spare. Theyll meet us at the park. Good man. Talk to Ella. Find out exactly where they last saw the duchess. Ive already talked to Tina and Mrs. Wallsy. I know where it is. Rand nodded his head. Foreign emotions filled his chest. Hed been too young to know the grief of losing his mother, his father had been around him very little, but this. Hed felt affection for Victoria, but he did not know her. Losing Anne and Joseph would kill him.
99

Eliza Lloyd

At the park, everyone looked to him for instruction. Rand wasnt sure what he said to anyone, only that they had fanned out from the spot where Anne had last been seen, searching for Joseph. His throat was hoarse from calling out for them. One of Cooks helpers walked next to him on the right. A stable hand from Grosvenor Square was on his left. He didnt know their names, only that their faces bore the same expression of worry. Anne! The brambles reached to his thighs in places, piercing through the cloth of his trousers and pricking his skin. The voices echoed around him. He could see Mr. Barry poking at something with a long stick. Had he found something? Rand stopped, but Barry moved on. He returned his gaze to the ground in front of him. One step. Another step. The crushing weight on his chest made breathing hard. Sweat trickled down his back. Your Grace! Rand glanced in the direction of the frantic voice. His heart pounded, each beat an unfamiliar and painful ache. He pushed through the thick underbrush. Have you found something? Mr. Barry pointed to the ground. Rand glanced at the trampled shrubs and sharp indentations in the peat-like ground cover. The two grooved channels were about six feet long, as if someone had been dragged. He squatted, and as he did, noticed a piece of material caught against a sharp bramble thorn. The fabric was silk with green and yellow embroidered flowers. Where is Carrie Black? Shes here. Find her. One of the servants took off running. Rand stood again, glancing around the area. His fingers caressed the material in his hand. He could see the markings of a path going back into the forest from the direction theyd come. Farther north, he could see the thin trail as it wound through the forest until there was a break in the trees. He glanced at those who had gathered in the small clearing. One of you stay here. Please. You two, follow this trail back toward the Serpentine. Look for any clue. Mr. Barry, come with me. They walked along the path. Rand imagined Anne struggling against her captor. But where was Joseph? And why struggle at this point? So near the clearing, where she could have run along the narrow carriage path. They walked on to the path, which was covered in leaves, loose gravel, dead peat from last fall and the evident marks of passing carriage wheels. Whoever it was must have had a carriage waiting, Mr. Barry said.

100

Wicked Temptation

Someone must have seen it. Rand hoped someone had seen it. Barry touched his arm. Rand turned to see Mrs. Black hurrying toward them with one hand holding a bunch of her skirts. Your Grace? He opened his hand, displaying the swatch of material in his palm. Mrs. Black gasped and covered her mouth with her hands. Oh sweet saints above. Does it belong to the duchess? he asked. Rand braced himself for her answer. Insidein his heart or in his mind, he knew not whichhe was painfully aware that it belonged to his Anne. Yes, oh yes. She has a dress made from that material. Mrs. Wallsy would know for sure. What does it mean? Has something happened to her? He touched her shoulder, as much to comfort her as to feel the steadying presence of someone else who loved Anne. It was a mistake. Mrs. Black wept at his touch. The sound of her grief stirred his own tears. No, it cant be, she wailed. Mr. Barry did what Rand could nothe embraced her. What will we do without her? And Joseph? She wailed all the louder at that thought. Rand listened, hearing the very words that echoed in his own heart. What would he do without them? If Anne had been taken, so had Joseph. She would not allow him to be harmed. Not while she breathed. Anne may have fooled the ton, but Rand had seen how much shed loved his children. She had been flip and indifferent about many things in life, but even he had seen the subtle changes in the way she spoke and acted toward him. Even he had seen how much shed loved him. Hed kept those emotions in a safe placehidden, unspoken, unacknowledgedhe was more comfortable categorizing their relationship as one of lust, not love. He glanced toward the west. The sun was beginning its precarious slide into dusk. Since hed married Anne, he had not spent one night out of her bed. Nor had his children ever been separated by anything other than birth order. We must keeping looking, he said, as much to himself as to Mr. Barry. All night if we have to. Barry nodded. Rand could see the doubt and worry in his servants expression. Undoubtedly, it was much the same as his. What could he do? He couldnt give up. He couldnt sleep until they were located. Those that are still searching need to know what weve found, Mr. Barry. Rand turned down the path once again, returning to the place where Anne had struggled for freedom. Where could they have been taken? One of the servants jogged up the trail. Your Grace, we found footprints. Rand would have expected as much. Just as he knew it was Anne who had struggled, he had known this was the path they had taken toward captivity. If only
101

Eliza Lloyd

there were other clues to identify the abductor. Show me. From where he stood, the path disappeared around a slight turn and into the thick forest, but as they walked, the outline of the trail remained obvious. They met up with the other house servant and the three of them stood shoulder-to-shoulder examining the spot. Here, Your Grace. In the middle of the path, a puddle had evaporated leaving a moist patch of mud. Aside from a large booted print there were three small footprints. Those could be the prints of a small boy, aye? Upon closer examination, Rand noticed something else. Yes, they are. But they are also going in the wrong direction. He set his large boot between the prints. Jojos stride was not so long. But a boy running, afraid, trying to get away? Maybe. How far could he have run? Would he hide or run for help? See if you can find more, Rand ordered. Weve been up and down the trail. Nothing so far. Keep looking. Faint hope sprang to life in his chest. What if Joseph had gotten away? Joseph! he hollered. Two more servants came down the trail and, sensing their urgency, joined in the frantic calls. Joseph! Jojo! Where are you? He pushed through the thicket again, weaving back and forth across the trail, calling Josephs name and watching the ground for other hopeful signs of his escape. He stepped over a rotted log, yelling again. Jojo! Papa? Rand stopped in his tracks, the faint sound of his sons voice sending shivers across his skin. He hadnt imagined it. Rand raised his hand. Halt! he said and every pair of legs within the sound of his voice froze in their tracks. Jojo, he said again, trying not to sound so threatening and fearful. Papa. Im here. The soft sound came from behind him. He turned and glanced along the ground, looking for his sons sweet face. There were no hidey-holes, no large bushes, only the shrubbery and the rotted, blackened length of a fallen tree. A hot coal burned in the middle of Rands chest. He walked the length of the log. At the large end, he saw the tiny, mud-encrusted leather boots of his son, and farther inside, his legs curled up toward his chest. Rand couldnt see his face. Rand stood frozen for a moment, unable to control the emotion that shook him.
102

Wicked Temptation

Joseph, Im going to pull you out now. He wiped at his eyes with the back of his hand. Rand knelt, and then slowly touched his sons leg, trying not to frighten him further. Jojo grabbed two of his fingers and held tight. Rand slid one hand under his bottom and lifted and pulled. Let me help, Mr. Barry said, having arrived at some point. Ive got him. Rand could see Jojos face now. Pale. Dirty. Wide-eyed. Dirt and twigs covered his coat and bugs crawled in his hair. His gaze found Rands. He took Mama.

*****
Anne had gotten his son to safety. Rand held his son and let him cry. Then Rand held him because Jojo was scared. Hed soiled himself while hiding. Embarrassed, he cried again and said, Mama told me to hide. I know she did. And it doesnt matter. Youre home and youre safe. He carried his son to the ducal rooms, where Winslow had prepared a bath. Ella had heard they were home and she followed with clothes and toys. Oh let me take care of him, Your Grace. No. Ill do it. Leave us alone, Mrs. Wallsy, he said politely. Rand didnt want anyone touching his child. Fleeting images of his own empty childhood crept up on him. Joseph had a father and he needed his father. Rand didnt know much about being a parent, other than how to sire the offspring, but for now, it was obvious that this was his responsibility. And whatever Rand did or said in the next few days would shape Josephs little, impressionable existence. You were very brave, you know. Joseph sat in his lap with his head leaning against Rands chest. He peeled off his sons dirty jacket and dropped it to the floor. He brushed away the smudges on Jojos cheek before working at the small buttons of his shirt. Once it was discarded, the shoes and stockings followed. Rand stood him to his feet, ready to peel off the boys trousers. He brushed his fingers through Jojos hair. Im very proud of you. You were a brave little man and you have nothing to be ashamed of. The trousers went around his ankles, followed by the dirty smallclothes. Rand used a towel to clean him before lifting him into the warm, sudsy water. Jojo sat still, with the water up to his neck. A few tears leaked from his eyes, but Rand chose to ignore them. Soaping a cloth, he washed Jojos face and shoulders. As he worked on his arms and legs, Rand casually started asking questions. Had you ever seen the man before? No. He was mean. His little body shook. Did he say what he wanted?

103

Eliza Lloyd

No. What did he look like? Mean. Mad. He had a gold watch. Jojo glanced up at him, his eyes still big with fright. Rand could see his arms clamped around his knees as he shivered under the water. Did he? Did he have a mustache or a beard? I dont remember. But Mama knew him. She did? How do you know? She called him She called him Mr. He rolled his eyes upward, searching for a name. I dont remember. A knock sounded at his door, and then Monsieur LeBlanc stepped in, carrying the tray of food Rand had requested. Only ze very best food for Master Joseph. Set it on the bed, please, Rand directed. Cook would spare no extravagance for the return of Pelhams heir. Are you hungry, Master Joseph? I made some fresh shortbread cookies and I warmed ze milk, just as you prefer. Jojo glanced from the cook to the tray on the bed. You can eat, if youre hungry, Rand said. Joseph nodded. Rand waved a hand at the cook and he left the room quietly. Stand up then. I think you are turning into a prune anyway. Rand grabbed a towel and wrapped it around his son, lifting him from the tub and setting him in his lap. He took a second towel and roughed it through his hair. Rand tried to imagine what he would have wanted if he had been in his sons place. All he could think of was that he would want his parents. Either one of them. Someone he could trust to keep him safe and to love him and not be angry with him. His biggest worry was that this little boy would try to blame himself for what had happened. Or worse, feel responsible if something happened to the woman he now called Mama. Mrs. Wallsy had brought in a set of nightclothes that Rand had seen Jojo wear on many occasions. Familiarity would be good. He lowered the towel. Jojo raised his hands and the soft, heavy cotton draped him to his knees. Rand thought hed made progress, but when he looked at Joseph again, the boy had started crying. He brought his son to his lap and kissed the top of his head. What is it? You can tell me. Mama said I was to run. As fast as I could. And I was supposed to hide. And she said that no matter what he said or did, I was supposed to hide and not come out until you found me. And you did just what you were supposed to do.
104

Wicked Temptation

Jojo hiccupped and tried to catch his breath. But he kicked her. I saw him kick her. Rand held his son closer. Since theyd located Joseph, hed tried to imagine that Anne, too, was safe. Somewhere. That if she was being held for ransom, they would not hurt her before they got the money. He knew it was more important to take away Jojos pain then to wallow in his own. Your mama is very, very smart. If she was kicked, he felt near breathless just saying it, if she was kicked, then she allowed it to protect you. But Im sure she wasnt really hurt. She probably did it to trick the bad man into letting you escape. He did not want to think about her being hurt. But what if shes still there, by herself? Shes not. We looked. She went someplace else in a carriage. With horses? Yes. Somehow that explanation made sense to Joseph, as both the tears and the questions stopped. May I have a biscuit? Of course. They sat on the bed. Joseph finished two cookies and his milk before he leaned back on the sumptuous pillows adorning the bed. Can I sleep here, Papa? He yawned. Already his eyes drifted shut. One of his small hands searched for his. Rand squeezed one final assurance before his son found peaceful oblivion. Rand breathed a prayer of thanksgiving. The Bow Street Runner had been waiting since theyd arrived home, and now it was time to talk to him. Rand did not want to hear all the innuendo the runner would inevitably bring up during the questioning, but he had no choice and no one else to turn to. He pulled the satin cord and Ella stepped in the room a moment later. Still red-eyed and emotional, she approached her charge. Stay with him while Im gone, he said. I am so sorry. I brought a few of her thingsfrom the park. She lowered a parasol and a book to the nightstand before turning her attention to Joseph. She caressed her aged hand through his hair. This wasnt your fault. Be at ease. The duchess will be found. Saying it with ducal authority seemed to calm everyone. Rand didnt feel such assurance. The naked truth was he didnt know, and no matter how many times he repeated the reassuring mantra, he had plenty of doubts.

*****

105

Eliza Lloyd

Anne woke with a dry mouth. She attempted to roll but her hands and feet were tightly bound. Her mouth was covered with a tight cloth. All night she had struggled, only to become exhausted and fall into a troubled sleep, then repeat the cycle again when she woke in a panic. The sun peeked in through slits in the curtains. Church bells tolled. Anne glanced toward the window before she examined her situation. Bindings at both wrists had chafed her skin raw. Well, she had caused the chafing, trying to escape the ties. At some point, she had kicked off her shoes. At least her toes had freedom of movement and she flexed them in defiant pleasure. The room was spacious and, other than the rays of light, the corners were darkened. The comfortable bed and rich-looking accessories belied the fact she was bound and gagged. An inn would not have such fine accommodations. Had they traveled far enough to be in a country home? She couldnt tell while she had been inside the darkened confines of the carriage boot. Where was she? Where was Garnette? And Joseph? Rand had surely found him. Or someone else had. She envisioned his rescue and reaffirmed that it had to be so with a quick prayer. When she woke again, Garnette was standing over her, loosening the ties that connected her to the bedpost. He said nothing, only jerked her to an upright position and then hoisted her to her feet. The sharp ache in her side reminded her of yesterdays struggle and his vicious attack. She didnt look at his face. When he led her around a three-panel dressing screen, she understood his purpose and didnt question him. Privacy involved him turning his back, but she didnt care. While rubbing at her stiff joints, she glanced around for a means to escape. She tugged at the rope holding the gag in her mouth. Dont do anything that will make me regret showing you kindness. Anne would have laughed had she believed she wouldnt choke on the disgusting sop of a rag in her mouth. Kindness? Refuting his word was out of the question. Nor was asking for real mercy, like setting her free. If she could speak, perhaps she could make him see reason. She had a way with men. Again, she felt hysterical laughter. If Ettiger and Clifton were an indication, she attracted crazed lunatics. The only difference being that she now recognized them. Do hurry, Lady Pelham. Anne finished up with a rustle of skirts and not a little embarrassment. From behind the silk screen, she cast another glance around the spacious room, noting two doors. One she assumed was to a hallway. The other, perhaps a connecting room or small sitting area. The room was a puzzle. It was much too nice for most people, let alone a lowly vicar without a parish. Garnette gripped the ropes and jerked her along. Sit.

106

Wicked Temptation

Anne obeyed since he seemed docile while she remained compliant. She sat perfectly still on the bed. Garnette walked to the window and stared broodingly outward. She peeked at the door to her left. You dont remember me, do you? Annes brows creased downward. She had never met the man before the chance meeting at Hyde Park the other day while he rode with Redding. She glanced at the small cherry escritoire. The rich polish and the brass knobs. The Chinese silk screen. Where could she be and how far had she traveled? A poor vicar could not afford such luxury, yet she was becoming certain they were still in London. Redding. Everything came back to Redding. The note, the carriage, his relationship with Garnette. Was she at Reddings manor in Belgravia? Where else would a poor man secret a kidnap victim? And who would look for her here? Still, it gave her hope that she could facilitate her escape. She shook her head slowly while trying to think of any situation that had involved Garnette before last week. Other than his connection to Redding, she would swear shed never met the man. Beaumaris? Baron Alsept? he asked. Wales? Garnettes connection was to Wales. It was so long ago. She shook her head, but tried to make the connection. Alsept was my uncle. Did you not know? You spoke against me for my appointment at Beaumaris. Everywhere I go, nothing but impure and strange women follow. And, I think, you are the worst. Again, Anne shook her head in denial. Baron Alsepts home was near Beaumaris, far from the South of Wales where shed grown upat least far enough for her to start a new life. She did not doubt Garnette had some grudge against her, but to kidnap her and Joseph? Assault her? He was more than a little deranged. Strange women? Some bell tolled in her mind. He lashed her hands to the bed again, growing more agitated with every twist of the rope. Your wicked hand has been the demise of many good men. Who knows how Alsept died. Then the old Earl of Redding. Pelham. Is the current duke next? Garnette started speaking to himself, quoting familiar Bible passages, calling for protection from evil spirits and cursing the strange woman in his midst. The deluded man had forgotten to take a few things into account. Namely, that men like him always seemed willing to abuse the weak. But for every Garnette, or Ettiger or Clifton, she had had good men like her father, and Alexander, and now Randall. Deceit and trickery. You tempt and tease until a man can no longer honor his vow. The baron shouldnt have listened to you. That strange girl was a temptress. I wasnt to blame.
107

Eliza Lloyd

He paced at the foot of the bed. But youll be cleansed soon enough. A young curate. An accusation of rape. The baron had talked to her about him. Had Alsept mentioned Garnettes name or implied that a nephew was involved? No. Her then-husband had only asked the question using generalities. Baron Alsepts sisters family had lived in Kent. Shed never met the Garnettes. Hed only asked her opinion from a womans perspective. She had advised her husband to having nothing to do with him. And so the baron had listened and selected another for the position near Beaumaris. Yes, Garnette had been in their home, nearly fifteen years ago. His uncle had turned him away. And when talking with Garnette at the park, what had he said about losing his current vicarage? An indiscretion. If all she now suspected was true, she was in the hands of a madman who believed right was on his side. Garnette halted, rubbing his hand at the back of his neck. He strode toward the bedstand beside her and opened the top drawer. He reached in and pulled out a knife. The sharp blade gleamed and he stared with fascination, turning it in his hand. Anne held her breath. He dropped the knife to the floor and turned on his heel, walking toward one of the doors, wiping his hands against his trousers until one hand gripped the door handle. He stepped inside. Screeching metal and running water told her the room was a private bathing area, and only the wealthiest of homes had running water on the second floor. It was confirmation she was at Reddings home. That meant the other door led to a hallway. And a hallway in Reddings home meant servants. Struggling, she turned to her side. The knife tip was just visible as she peered over the edge of the bed. Again, she fought against the bonds at her wrists. The pain was immediate and sharp, her wrists were already rubbed raw. Instead of struggling further, she closed her eyes against the burgeoning fearthat of being tied, abducted, threatened with as-yet-undescribed harm. Shed been tied before. Shed been raped by Clifton. Aside from death, she could bear whatever Garnette had planned. As long as she was breathing, she had hope. Her only goal was to remain compliant, discover an avenue of escape and live to see her next sunrise. At that precise summary, she calmed. Breathing through her nose seemed a bit easier. Her gaze stayed fixed on the opposite door. The sound of running water ceased. Garnette returned to the room and she fought against the surge of panic. Im ready. He bent to retrieve the knife. Without a word, he started hacking at the material of her dress. So it is to be rape, she thought. She gritted her teeth as cool air touched her legs. She knew it would be quick,
108

Wicked Temptation

but no less violent or intrusive for that. She turned her face away, staring at a painting on the far wallthat of several farmworkers haying in a field. Her breasts came free and he tugged and yanked at the material around her waist until she was naked except her stockings. He set the knife aside and used his hands, rolling the stockings slowly, his fingers caressing her skin. Hot excitement etched every line of his facefrom his flaring nostrils and harsh breathing to the tinge of red staining his skin from neck to ears. He worked the silk stockings past the rope at her ankles. She felt the movement on the mattress as he sat beside her. She knew that he stared. Bracing for his vile touch, she thought of Wales and the dirt of the coal mine as it covered her father after a hard days work. How hard he had worked for his family. Papa had been honorable and caring. He had loved his children. He had loved her. And she had been embarrassed to return home after her reputation had been so thoroughly tainted. She would not think of Rand. With him, the act was perfect and beautiful. She did not want to associate one with the other. She waited, but he didnt touch her. She peeked at him and met his intense gaze. After you are cleansed, I can have you, but first, I need to know that you are sorry. Debate wasnt what he wanted. She couldnt tell the odious vicar to go to hell, but if being sorry would buy her time, then she was very, very sorry indeed. She nodded in agreement. Good. He untied her again, leaving the ropes dangling from her wrists and ankles. Come with me. He gripped her upper arm and forced her from the bed, walking beside her as he led her to a small room. She tested her strength, making fists and feeling the tingling numbness spread through her fingers. A copper tub was nearly filled with water. Get in. Dont be afraid. That statement, made in his logical-sounding ministerial voice, made her very afraid. As they stepped through the door, she bolted, yanking free of Garnettes grip. The skin of her arm felt as if it had been torn to shreds. She ran straight for the other door, reached for the knob and then felt the powerful grip of Garnettes masculine arms as he reached around her and lifted her from her feet. She dangled in his arms, her upper body pinned, but she kicked both feet against his legs and knees, to no avail. He swung her around and marched toward the tub. Inside the room, he lifted her a bit higher and then dropped her in the clear depths. Cool water engulfed her. She gasped but the gag in her mouth and the bit of air she was getting combined in a drowning sensation that had her wishing she were on the
109

Eliza Lloyd

bed about to be violated. She thrashed, her arms braced against the side. Garnettes large hand clamped over the top of her head and he pushed her under the water. Annes eyes were wide, Garnette visible through the blurry water covering her. Her lungs burned. She had to breathe or swallow. Her limbs were leaden. One of her hands gripped his wrist, trying to pry him loose, but there was no strength. She was going to die. A sob filled her chest and she breathed in, water filling her mouth and nose. She was going to die. She hadnt told Rand that she loved him.

110

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Ten
Is Mama home yet? Joseph asked, still lying in bed beside Rand. After discussing Annes abduction with the runner, he had returned to his bedroom only to pace the floor until the dawn sun reminded him that he had not rested. Hed lain beside Jojo, finding peace in watching his son, his heir, sleep. No, not yet. But soon. Ella Wallsy had moved a chair close to the bed and slept in an uncomfortable position, watching over her charge until exhaustion overcame her. Mrs. Wallsy snores. I know. Rand patted his son and then bent to kiss the tangled mess of hair on his head. The runners suggestion was to wait, as if he had a choice. They could comb the park again looking for her or he could accept the truth that shed been kidnapped. Perhaps the runner was right and there would be a ransom note or some demand received today that would explain everything. But to just have her disappear. Without a word. Never knowing whether hed see her again. Without telling her the things he felt. He thought of nothing but what his life would be like without her. She had filled some void in his life. She had understood him. Everyone eventually went on after a tragedy, and so would he, but some part of him would always be missing. I love you, Joseph. I love you too, Papa. Many men would have overlooked Anne because of her past. Rand had been intrigued by her because of that past, but it didnt make her less desirable to him then or now. She was exactly what he needed. After he had dressed and breakfasted with Joseph, a footman came to the door with a note that Michael and Clarissa Dunnaway, the earl and countess, were in the Yellow Room. Rand assumed they had heard the distressing news. In fact, he guessed the entire ton was probably chewing over the on dit rather than their breakfast. Winslow assisted with quick efficiency, dressing and grooming Rand before he turned to leave the room. Papa? Jojos eyes were wide and his skin pasty. Winslow is going to take you up to the nursery. Mrs. Wallsy and Tina and Daniel and Sarah are all up there waiting for you. Ill be along in a minute. You promise? My word as a VanLandingham.

111

Eliza Lloyd

It would have been easy to coddle him just then. But Jojo had to know he was safe in his own home, if not the world at large. When he entered the Yellow Room, the earl greeted him first. We heard. Is there anything we can do? Anne would appreciate that youve come. Clarissa, an extraordinary beauty with the type of kindness Rand had rarely seen, clutched both of his hands in hers. She had been one of Annes most faithful supporters in spite of Annes past. Do not believe a word that is being said about Anne. Anne is missing. That is all. Ive no doubt the ton is slavering given the exaggerated reputation of her past. Youve heard nothing from her? Clarissa asked, squeezing with heartfelt fervor. Bow Street believes that this is a kidnapping for money. At this point, I have no reason to believe otherwise. And your son? the earl asked. Is safe. We located him hiding in the park. He waved a hand for them to be seated. The countess appeared wan. My goodness. He is unhurt? Scared mostly, but thankfully, unharmed. But who would do such a thing? Rand shrugged. Hed asked himself that a hundred times since Mr. Barry had located him at Whites. I hesitate to ask, but could it be someone from her past? Is there someone who wishes her harm? the countess asked. How much did she know about his wife? Airing his personal family issues might be distasteful on most days, but he had to take into account their friendship, and more importantly, the desperation of the situation. She hasnt mentioned anyone specifically. If Clifton werent in Wales, he would be the first person Rand would suspect. Had she or the children been threatened in any way? He stared hard at the Countess. Why? Had Anne said something to you? Only that she had been worried about something. Im sorry she gave me no details. Rand felt a moment of hope. Are you sure? Did she not give you some small clue that you might have forgotten? No, I had hoped she had told you, trusting you as she does. It troubled her greatly. And you know Anne, she is rarely bothered about anything. I cant help but think this isnt random. Someone must have planned this. Countess, you sound much like the Bow Street Runner I spoke with. Rand knew
112

Wicked Temptation

it was out of concern. Hes right, Clarissa. Our presence is more of a nuisance than a help, the earl said. The countess turned to her husband, But what if she received a note or letter or if someone saw her talking to a stranger or endangering the children. Then she would have told her husband. Rest assured, Bow Street is doing all they can. Again, that false assurance did little to appease his growing anxiety. When a man became a duke, the weight was solely on his shoulders, regardless of his personal feelings. The time was nearing noon and Anne had been missing for nearly a day. If you need anything Clarissa suggested. All will be well. She loves you. She would never leave you willingly. An arrow pierced through Rands heart at her words. There might have been a fleeting moment of doubt, but yes, she did love him. Somewhere deep inside he had known that, or sensed the truth of it. Had it happened for her the way it happened to him? Backwards? Sneaking up when his expectations had been for a physical relationship only? Burying itself deeply, growing, so that when the truth was known, it would hurt as if his very heart were being ripped from his body? After the earl and countess departed, Rand returned to his room, basking in the presence of Anne that pervaded his surroundings. Finch had sent the workmen away, unwilling to have them underfoot while they waited for news. It only added to the sense of quiet doom that hung in the air. He touched her things. A brush with thick dark strands caught in the bristle teeth. Earrings that she had worn a few days ago. A glove missing its mate. He plucked it from the wooden table and held it to his nose. What good was one glove without the other? On the nightstand, the parasol that Anne had left the house with yesterday. A book she had been reading, neatly marked with a white piece of paper. He plucked the novel from the stand and glanced at the title. What if the countess was right? What if there was some clue from her past that would tell him where she was? He could search the room. Her belongings were in this room and she didnt have so many things when they had married that he couldnt look through them all in a very short time. He stood, setting the book on the nightstand as he turned away. The book dropped to the floor and spilled open, a white note protruding between the pages. The red seal caught his attention. He bent, plucked up the missive and flipped it over, seeing the Earl of Reddings seal on the back. The note was already opened, but he wouldnt have cared if it were personally addressed to the Prince of Wales and marked confidential. His wifes
113

Eliza Lloyd

business was his business. The note had been crushed and then refolded. He peeled back the flaps and read the words scribbled across the white paper. Weak legs compelled him to sit again. Redding? The threat was obvious. Blackmail. His grandfather had died after a seizure. Anne had nothing to do with it. He stuffed the letter in his pocket. Rand jumped to his feet. His temper soared. Redding wanted Anne. Wanted a woman who was not his. Whom he had no right to. He ordered his horse brought around and just as quickly he made his way to the nursery. Joseph was at his side the moment he stepped through the nursery door. Papa! Joseph said. He smiled up at Rand, relief shining in his eyes. Sarah glanced in his direction with girlish disdain. Daniel sat on the floor and played with blocks. The picture of domestic bliss would be complete once he retrieved Anne. He squatted in front of Joseph. Im going to be gone for a bit. I need you to stay here and protect Sarah and Daniel. Can you do that for me? Joseph glanced around the room and saw the reassuring presence of Mrs. Wallsy and Tina, where they should be. He solemnly nodded. Good lad. Rand smiled and touched Jojos face. On the way out, he stopped in his bedchamber and opened the cabinet where he kept his weapons. He primed one of the pistols and tucked it in the band of his trousers, fully intending to unload the weapon if Redding so much as denied his involvement. He might have galloped headlong to Belgravia. Instead, Rand kept the horse in hand, while it seemed to sense the coming confrontation, lifting its legs in high prancing steps trying to dash toward Rands destination. There were times when being the duke opened doors. The staff at Reddings manse were very accommodating once Rand dropped his card on the silver salver. The footman dashed off toward the library. Rand had no patience. Hed come for his wife and he was not waiting another moment to find her. No one stopped him as he followed the footman to his destination. Redding stood behind the desk with Pelhams card in hand as Rand entered the spacious domain belonging to the earl. Dressed immaculately, the earl looked the epitome of a London gentleman. Redding bowed. Your Grace. We only heard an hour go. What can we do? Get out, he said to the footman and closed the door behind him. He stared at the earl. Where is she? Redding frowned. Who? Where is my wife? Redding stepped from behind the desk. I understand that you are upset. Upset? You kidnap my wife, frighten my son and you dare stand there as if you
114

Wicked Temptation

are innocent? I dont know what you are talking about. Yesterday, you forcibly removed my wife from Hyde Park. Prior to that, you were found in my house accosting her. And as if I need more evidence, you threatened her with some sort of scandalous falsehood. Rand reached into his jacket, removed the pistol and pointed it at Reddings villainous heart. Now. Where is she? Redding slowly spread his hands wide, finally aware that Randall meant business. Pelham, pull the trigger if you must, but be aware that I do not know where your wife is nor why you suspect my involvement. Randall held the gun steady, reached into his pocket again and then threw the note on Reddings desk. Do you deny that is your seal? The earl glanced at the note with disdain, not even interested in its contents. It is obviously mine. What does it have to do with me? Read it. Redding plucked up the note and opened it cautiously. His brows winged. He pursed his mouth for a second and then said, I did not write this. Rand cocked the gun, the sound deafening in the open room. Anyone in this house could have written that note. Anyone who had The earl turned away. Rand wasnt prepared to shoot the man in the back. Im not going to ask again. Redding raised his hand. I know how this looks, but there are other possibilities. Such as? Will you give me a minute? You are not leaving this room, Redding. Not until you tell me what I want to know. Redding moved with deliberate slowness around the desk and reached for a pen. He scribbled a note and then tugged at the satin pull, calling for a servant. A liveried footman came in, glanced from the earl to the pistol-carrying duke, but retained his perfect manners. My Lord? Would you deliver this note to Mr. Garnettes room? Tell him it is urgent. He faced Rand again with polite manners. Have a seat, Pelham, before you put a shot through my Gainsborough.

*****
Anne thought she would feel better once she died. Coughing made her chest hurt. Her throat burned when she swallowed, but she could breathe. And through her mouth. She sucked in the first deep lungful of air shed had in almost a day. Licking her dry lips felt near perfect bliss. However, when Anne opened her eyes, she was in the same bed. The bindings were
115

Eliza Lloyd

back in place and hurt worse. Wet, scratchy hemp tore into her already-chafed skin. Anne didnt bother jerking at the bindings or trying to free herself. Garnette had nearly drowned her. Sickly darkness threatened to engulf her again as she thought about the heavy wetness encompassing her and her final breath as fire tore at her lungs. His voice rose from somewhere in the room. To Anne, the urgent whispers sounded like angered bugs. She closed her eyes and this time tried to picture Rand as he had been. Laughing with her, loving her. How could it seem as if he were the dream and Garnette her only reality? Garnette chanted the Lords name. Peeking at him, she saw he was naked and on his knees, praying, calling out to a God who would not do such things to another human. Her father had been a praying man, as most of the miners werecrawling into the belly of the earth each day, relying on friend and divine intervention to bring them safely out each night. That she understood and believed. This was nothing more than lunacy enveloped in pretend creed. And to him, she was the harlot, the strange woman, the one in the wrong. When the utterances stopped, she watched as he stood, came to the side of the bed and glanced down at her. You are clean now. Anne said nothing, but did not take her eyes from him. At least he only tried to wash the strangeness from her, rather than beat it out. Would you like a drink? Anne nodded. She caught the leisurely gaze he swept over her body. His erection indicated his intent. She had a little life left in her. If the monster freed her again, she would try to escape again. He went to a short sideboard that contained glasses and four decanters with liquor, of which he poured a generous amount for her. At the bed again, he sat beside her. He gently put his hand to the back of her head and tilted her upward, holding the glass to her lips. His kindness now was all the more reason to assume he was insane. She drank, not knowing when she would get more. The drink was only cider, but she didnt think shed ever had better. She licked her lips. Once the glass was on the nightstand, he stared dreamily at her. May I call you Anne? She nodded, unwilling to expend an ounce of her voice telling him no when hed do what he wanted whether or not she agreed. And he was calm. The vicars expression was almost boyish in its earnestness. He was soft, unused to work, and had a receding hairline, but he was definitely younger than she was. Anne, you are so beautiful. He lifted his hand and slowly placed it on her breast. When I saw you the first time
116

Wicked Temptation

He sucked in his breath and closed his eyes in momentary ecstasy. His chest moved rapidly and he dipped his free hand between his legs to cup his erection. Its not a sin that I want you. A knock sounded at the door. Anne turned her head and started to call out, but Garnettes hand covered her mouth with hard brutality. Strong fingers bit into her skin. His other hand grabbed the knife that rested on the bedstand and he pressed it to her neck, the fine point digging into the underside of her chin. What is it? he yelled. The earl would like to see you in the library, Mr. Garnette. Now? I gathered so. It seemed urgent. There is a note, Mr. Garnette. The white missive slid under the door. Tell him Ill be down momentarily. Quick steps retreated down the hall. Garnette reached for the corner bed sheet, ripped it from its moors and tore strips that he stuffed into her mouth. Another rope appeared and went around her head again, her temporary freedom gone, but a willing payment to get him from the room. This is all your fault, he said as he yanked the rope one final time before hurrying to the door and retrieving the note, which he read with a pacing glance. He went straightaway to the armoire. The man whod kidnapped her at Hyde Park returned. His expression turned harsh. He swore under his breath. Hurriedly he dressed, slipping into trousers, shirt and jacket with the efficiency of a man who has lived without a valet. Polished boots were last. He stopped in front of a cheval mirror, adjusting the simple white cloth at his neck. He grabbed a copy of Fordyces Sermons as he left without a backward glance at her, and without bothering to cover her with even a simple sheet.

*****
Minutes ticked by on the long cased clock in the corner. Rand had no choice but to wait on Redding, who sat in his chair looking both disturbed and nervous, but completely ignoring the fact that Rands pistol was still cocked and aimed at Reddings heart. When they heard the knock at the door, Rand jumped from his chair and backed away from Redding, leveling the pistol once again at his nemesis. Redding used his hand again to indicate calm. Rand felt no such compunction. Let me do the talking, Pelham. Rand was partially hidden by a large globe and potted palm, but he could see the room clearly as a plainly dressed man entered the room. Cousin, I understand I am needed?

117

Eliza Lloyd

Yes, John. Do come in. The man sat in the brocade chair that Rand had just vacated. We are still riding later on, I presume? Rand watched the interchange. Redding went right to the issue. Do you remember Lady Pelham? With whom you met at Hyde Park a few days ago? John blinked and fidgeted in his chair. Lady Pelham? The virago who caused you and your father such misery? Who could forget? Shes gone missing. John laughed. Is it any wonder? Rands trigger finger itched. The Duke of Pelham believes there is a connection to my household, Mr. Garnette. I am not so sure he isnt right. What do you mean? Rand heard the strain in his voice. This note was sent to Lady Pelham from my home, John. My home. In which you are a guest. He threw the well-read missive toward his cousin. What are you saying? Im saying that I want you to tell me, and Pelham, again Redding waved his hand, this time to indicate Rands presence, that you had nothing to do with her abduction. John looked over his shoulder. His gaze caught sight of the gun and went wideeyed. He jumped out of the chair and ran to the door, catching both Redding and Pelham off guard. Follow him! Redding ordered. Rand needed no such instruction. This prick wasnt getting away. He sprinted toward the door, now wide open. With his hand, he caught himself on the doorjamb and swung hard into the hallway. Garnette was already headed up the stairs. Rand passed two footmen, both looking too stunned to offer assistance. Garnette went down a hallway and up another flight of stairs before doubling back through a series of doors and unoccupied rooms. Rand caught sight of Redding at the far end of the hallway coming up the servants stairs. He tried to remember the layout of the mansion, but hed been in too many homes of too many nobles to tell the difference. Garnette disappeared behind a locked door. Rand shook the knob. Garnette, where is she? he yelled. He drew back a leg and kicked hard against the door.

*****
118

Wicked Temptation

Anne gasped when Garnette tore into the room and slammed the door behind him. He grabbed the knife at the nightstand and started sawing at her bonds. Rand yelled on the other side of the door and tears flooded her eyes. Garnettes fingers twisted through her hair. He jerked her up and dragged her out of the bed. She screamed Rands name but it sounded like nothing more than a garbled moan through the restraining cloth. She heard a loud crash against the door. Garnette backed toward the water closet, pressing the knife into her throat. Rand kicked at the door a second time and it flew open, crashing into the wall. Her vision blurred as tears streaked down her face. Let her go, he said, calm as death. Dont you see what she does to men? Dont you see how she affects those around her? Look what shes done to you. She is wicked. Rand took a few steps into the room. He held a gun at arms length pointed directly at Garnettes head. She is my wife. Let her go, Garnette, and you wont get hurt. No. You cant have her. He pressed the knife blade harder against her skin. He looped his hand through her hair again, dragging her backward. Rand did not even glance in her direction, keeping Garnette firmly in his sight. Where do you think youll hide, that I wont find you? Redding will protect me. Do you think hes going to stop me? Stay where you are. Or what? Ill hurt her. No, you wont. You are going to let her go. The gunshot was loud. Anne looked down expecting to see blood. Rand screamed her name as she felt the weight behind her. Garnette pulled her down as he went to the floor. Anne!

*****
Rand reached the doorway. Redding, who stood at another door, had entered behind Garnette from a connecting room. The gun he held still smoked. I thought I could help him, he said before lowering his arm. Rand knelt beside Anne and pried Garnettes dead fingers from her hair. She was a dead weight in his arms as he carried her back into the room and placed her on the bed,
119

Eliza Lloyd

covering her naked body with a sheet. He turned her over, wiping at the blood covering her back with the thick coverlet on the bed. There was no wound on her though. Vicious bindings, some hanging from the bed and others still wrapped around her wrists, hinted at her captivity. Rand knew how fearful she must have been. He worked at the rope that kept her gagged, removing the impediment so she could breathe better. Tight knots bound her wrists. Gently, he loosed each one, cursing as he saw the raw wounds on each of her delicate limbs. Is she all right? Redding asked. Yes, I think so. Can you send for her ladys maid from Pelham House? And send someone with medicinals? Redding left the room. Anne? Can you hear me? He tapped the side of her face. He prayed that Garnette had not violated her. Then he wondered if she would tell him if he had. Until recently, theirs had not been a relationship that involved intimate details of their thinking and feeling. He wanted that to change. He wanted to understand her. Feel her pains and joys. To know her love. He gritted his teeth against the emotion. Now was not the time for weakness. Two servants rushed inside carrying towels and a robe, which they set on the end of the bed. One of them handed him a tin of salve. The other went to the water closet and gasped, turning again to rush out of the room. Redding had obviously forgotten to mention the dead body. Alone again, he bent to kiss her forehead. When he pulled away, her eyes were open. Rand? Jojo? she asked in sudden panic, grabbing at him. Rand smiled while pushing the hair back from her face. Hes fine. We found him. Im sorry. This wasnt your fault. He picked up the tin of salve, dipped his finger in and rubbed it over her wrists. Did he hurt you, Anne? No. More tears spilled. Ill take you home as soon as Carrie arrives. Joseph will be relieved to see you. Rand felt tongue-tied and inadequate. He could blurt out his feelings, but she was in no condition to hear what he had to say. She needed to be in her home, in her bed. She entwined her fingers with his, closed her eyes and said nothing else. When they arrived home, she insisted on seeing Joseph. Rand listened as she told him how brave he was and how much she loved him. Then she spoke quietly to him and he bobbed his head in agreement at whatever she said. And still more tears. In the meantime, Finch had concocted an appropriate tale for the ton gossipmongers. The duchess had, in a fit of temper, gone to stay with her friend the

120

Wicked Temptation

Countess Dunnaway. The servants, those who knew the truth, were rewarded for their assistance and their confidence. Redding would have to concoct his own explanation for how hed shot his cousin in the back. Bow Street came and went while Rand was left to face the night with Anne. She probably wanted to be alone. He couldnt bear the thought of being apart from her. She probably wanted nothing to do with men. He could think of nothing but loving her, healing her body with his. He didnt have the words to tell her, but he could show her, and what better night when she must doubt all the things she believed inherself, human goodness, love. Anne was still in the bath as he walked into the room. Mrs. Black, you may go, he ordered. Carrie looked to Anne for approval and she nodded. Rand had already told Winslow to stay away. He set a stool next to the tub and worked at the cravat knotted at his throat, loosening it and discarding it on the floor. Are you well? he asked as he worked at the studs on his sleeves and shirt. He left the shirt open but pulled it from the inside of his trousers. The nap helped. Her watery gaze stared into his eyes. Rand, I He placed a finger over her lips and knelt beside the copper tub. With subtle deliberation, he stroked her bottom lip and then slid his fingers down the wet silkiness of her neck. His hand disappeared under the sudsy water and he cupped one of her breasts. The nipple was hard to the touch. He brushed his thumb over it. I need you, Anne. Like I need air and water. When I thought I might never see you again Annes hand lay over his and she gently guided his hand downward. Between her legs, he felt the smooth, warm flesh. She closed her eyes. He slipped his fingers through the silken folds, inserting two into the welcoming sheath of her body. I only want to remember your touch, she whispered. Rands erection ached against the confines of his trousers. He wanted nothing more than to slip into the hot depths of her delectable body. Instead, he leaned over her, placing his lips against hers. Warm, sweet breath met him as she sighed. He gazed at her expression. Surrender. Passion. Love. Her hands emerged from the water and she grasped the sides of the tub. Gentle undulations sent little ripples across the water as she rocked against his hand. The red marks on her wrists fueled Rands rage at what had happened to her. She had said little once they had returned home. He was torn between demanding she tell him and willing that she forget every second spent in Garnettes vile presence. She arched. Her breasts came out of the water and Rand forgot all about his anger as he lowered his mouth and suckled a pretty nipple. He slid his free arm behind her back. When he took his hand from between her legs, she squinted at him. That hand
121

Eliza Lloyd

went under her knees and he lifted her from the tub. The cascading water soaked his shirt. Anne wrapped one hand around his neck. Her tongue licked along his neck and settled at his ear, where she nibbled. As they approached the bed, she whispered, Love me. Fuck me. Do whatever you must to make me forget. Lowering her gently to the bed, Rand fought back the insane desire to fuck her raw as she pressed her heels against the mattress and spread her legs. He tore at the fall of his trousers and reached for his hard, aching cock. Need pounded at his temples and his stones. He gripped his shaft and squeezed, trying to dampen his urgent need to ejaculate in or on her. Anne rolled to her knees, her pert bottom up, offering him everything. The drawer, Rand. Fill me. Oh fuck, he said, reaching for the top drawer where she kept the hard, handcrafted shafts shed make him use when hed reached his limit. He grabbed one she was particularly fond of, with a curving shaft and a thick bulbous tip. He stroked his hand along his erection. Already, the urgent need had his eyesight dimming and his focus waning. Where, Anne? Where do you want me? he asked. He leaned over her, allowing his swollen manhood to stroke along the cleft of her buttocks. I dont care, she gasped. Tonight, he wanted the sweet, soft depths of her womanhood. He wanted to feel the hot contractions of her orgasm and watch her sweet little ass take in the large dildo. He wanted to own her. He wanted to cover her in semen, eat from her pearl-slicked pussy, lick every inch of her skin and then do it all over again. Rand slid the shapely glass through the folds between her legs. Once it was wet with her juices, he used his fingers to spread her ass. His cock strained toward her sheath. He dipped, bending his knees, and his cock slid right to the sweet spot that he would soon claim. The dildo tip met with resistance, but Rand shoved into her just as his cock moved with slow, deliberate ease into her sheath. Anne groaned. Her back arched in greedy welcome. Oh yes. All of it. She groaned again, setting Rand on fire. He eased farther into her. The slick dildo disappeared as his gaze ate up every inch of the erotic image. The only thing better than watching was doing and when he got both, Rand usually came in a hard explosive rush. Tonight would be no different. She pushed back against him, doing what he had been too slow to do. Rand felt the pressure of the curving phallus, making his passage more intense. He canted his hips and started a gentle rocking. Anne met his every stroke, her ass bumping against his groin. Harder. I only want to feel.

122

Wicked Temptation

Rand allowed only slight movement of the dildo, but he pistoned in and out of her at a faster, headlong pace. His hips thrust and withdrew. His trousers had fallen past his knees. Annes body tightened. A familiar pose as her body curled toward orgasmic release. He pushed deep as his orgasm started. He grabbed her hips and yanked her back hard. The end of the dildo pressed against his stomach, which was keeping it in place. He shoved farther, burying himself to the root of his cock. The first contraction was sharp and long, wrapping around him, squeezing as his semen fought to escape into the tight constrictor of her pussy. Anne screamed and he poured himself into herthree deep thrusts and his cock emptied. He tried to catch his breath. Small little spasms still brushed his erection, keeping him hard and entirely sated. More, she said. More. Anne. What did he want to tell her? Did he want her to stop? Did he want to tell her she would regret their heedless fucking in a time when sensitivity should have played a much larger role? He pulled from her body. She reached behind, holding the large glass cock inside her body as she flattened on the bed, remaining on her stomach. The sight of the sexual protrusion so clearly visible between her ass cheeks had Rand sweating. He ripped off his shirt, reached for his boots and kicked off his trousers. She rocked against the bed, her hips undulating, one hand underneath her body providing her own stimulation. Wait for me. Youre too slow. He watched for a self-satisfying moment. His cock swelled again. He stroked himself watching her pleasure. Anne was by far the most sensual woman he had ever been with. Nothing shocked her. Her sense of curiosity was a constant wonder to him. His suggestions met with enthusiasm. Hed figured out that as long as she had pleasure, she was willing. Hed often wondered what little tidbits she had dreamed up that he hadnt thought of yet. Instead of missing out, he walked around the bed. Anne tilted her head enough to see him, but more to the point, see the cock he was offering. Bracing his hand against her bottom, he offered her a few smooth strokes before removing the phallus. She moaned for it, but Rand had other things on his mind and slipped it from her body. She rolled, forgetting her own pleasure for a moment. Reaching over her head, she dug her fingers into the back of his thighs, urging him forward. Looking down at her, he saw that she licked her lips in anticipation. He crawled onto the bed, his knees spread around her shoulders, his cock dangling near her face. Her fingers inched up his thighs and dug into his ass as she pulled him toward her. That wicked tongue of hers lapped at the tip of his cock. Bracing himself, he used his
123

Eliza Lloyd

arm and elbow to spread one of her legs and she hooked it over his back, exposing every crevice for his pleasure. The other leg laced with the first. He lowered his mouth and sought out the fragrant valley between her legs. Anne sucked him into her mouth, sliding her hands over his ass while he opened his mouth over her, licking and sucking at the pink, soft flesh of her womanhood. She hummed as he stroked his tongue over her clitoris. The subtle vibrations of her mouth worked their way up his cock. Rand loved her with his mouth. Anne gasped and then arched under him. Her mouth clamped over him again and Rand felt the swift cresting as he came a second time. Anne drank him down before he attended to her needs, a second and third orgasm causing her to gasp and scream and finally utter, No more. Rand rolled to his back, panting. He would not give her up. Ever.

124

Wicked Temptation

Chapter Eleven
All afternoon, Anne had contemplated the events that had led to her discovery at Reddings mansion. Rand must have found the note, but his mood was oddly indecipherable. He was both solicitous and reserved. The book she had been reading was back in their room, the note gone. Could she count it as a fortunate event or was Rand, even now, considering the implications? They lay naked beside each other, her head on his chest. Gentle caresses brushed across her back where his fingertips touched her. He held a glass of brandy and slowly sipped at it while they lay in silence. Neither of them seemed willing to break the mood or discuss what had happened. She turned her face and pressed her lips against his chest. He had required her to submit to his ministrations as he put more salve on her wrists and ankles. He cursed when he examined the bruise at her side a second time. But he asked no questions. Rand, how did you find me? As tempting as it was, Anne knew she could not remain silent. Had she unburdened herself when the old duke had died, she would have had nothing to feel guilty about and could have responded with a resounding hell, no when the first note had arrived. And laughed at the second one. Then perhaps not. Garnettes kind of insanity could have been triggered by anythingor nothing. She heard Rand swallow the brandy and set the glass on the nightstand. The note. The one Garnette wrote to you. I take it you didnt meet him at the Abbey? No. I went, thinking it was Redding, but no one showed up. And had he, the jig would have been up. Are you going to make me ask why you didnt tell me? It would have been a simple matter to refute his accusation. Things like that are never simple. So you went. I guess I wanted to speak with him. Discuss the matter. He tipped her chin up with his finger and stared into her eyes. Anne, what was there to discuss? If you thought it was Redding, he was fully aware, as was the entire ton, of my grandfathers death. She jerked her gaze from his and closed her eyes. Tears started again, as if she could stop the constant dribble that had assailed her the past few hours.
125

Eliza Lloyd

Tell me, he said. Why? Because I thought he knew something. Like what? Rand, Im sorry. I didnt know you that well at the time. I was there when your grandfather died. I was in the room. His body tensed underneath her, but his voice remained calm. What do you mean? I thought with my reputation and with our relationship being one lacking any sort of affinity, you and others might think the worst. She glanced up at his face. You know how people gossip. I thought I would be accused of some dastardly crime, if not publicly, then certainly in the sitting rooms of your peers and across the card tables of your friends. Rand hmpfed in disgust, rolled away and sat up on his side of the bed. So what happened? He stood, grabbed his glass and walked across the room. Anne admired the sleek muscles of his back and the tight mounds of his ass, thankful that he was hers. And still so terribly in love with him. Her heart ached from the welling emotion. At the sideboard, he filled his glass again. He made accusations about me being a gold digger, a fraud, a whore and then then he tore into your character, which got my dander up more than anything he had said about me. Did you know I was never allowed to call him anything but Your Grace? he asked, staring into the amber liquid in his glass. Rand, please believe me. I never meant to cause harm. When he fell over, I was shocked. Afraid. All I could think of was what if someone heard him yelling at me, they would think the worst. Once I knew he was dead, I mean, I would have called for help had he livedoh I sound so pathetic. Anne was prepared to tell him more. How she had defended Rand. How she had explained to the old duke how she had grown up. He spouted some drivel about hardship building character and that she obviously hadnt any. I believe you, he said simply. You do not have to explain. But you need to know the truth. He laughed. The truth? I knew the man. He was not kindly disposed to anyone who did not have all the social graces of the aristocracy or proven lineage to the Conqueror. What he said Was nothing more than what he had said to my face a hundred times. He finished his drink and returned to the bed. He opened his hand and she slipped her small fingers into his tender grip. You see, Anne, I have my own questionable past to contend with. She patted the bed and he sat beside her. She raised her brows. He called you a bastard, and not in the literal sense.
126

Wicked Temptation

Im surprised you havent heard. He smiled and then slipped one hand behind her neck and into her hair before leaning to kiss her. I hardly know what to tell you first. There was some question as to my paternity and I love you. Or I love you and I hope you dont mind being married to a bastard. What? Im not sure Im a VanLandingham. No, she said softly. The other part. Oh, that. He stared into her eyes for a long moment. Anne bit at her lips while the tears returned. She blinked, hoping they would not spill in yet another undignified display. Sweet Anne, he said. Am I allowed to tell you once and for all time that I love you? He sighed, dragging on the weighty import of his words. Those words are simply too difficult to say when I am unsure of you. Yet I would not have said them were I not sure. I want to start over. I want my first words to you to be about what is in my heart. What I know will not disappear with time, or age, or beauty or scandal. Do you believe me, Anne? Do you believe that what I feel here, he put her hand over his heart, is real and that I have only felt it for you? She closed her eyes and the trail of tears seeped down her face. She nodded. I believe in you. She pushed to her knees, wrapped her arms around his neck and slid into his lap. So you wont mind if Im not really the duke? His arms around her, his love, their familythat was all that mattered. You are the duke, she said with absolute assurance. You look just like him. My father? Yes, I know. At least, I look like him now. I actually think it was my fathers way of getting back at him. Grandfather was a cold bastard, in the literal sense, even to his closest family. But your father had to know you would suffer. No more than he did. I have no doubt my mother was having an affair, but it seems my fathers seed was the victor. Something my grandfather never seemed to accept. I think he treated my mother very much the way he tried to treat you, only she thought to avenge herself, or so I gather from the gossip Finch and Winslow seem willing to fill my ears with. When did you realize? Again, Finch and Winslow, marching me up the stairs to the portrait hall at Bridgeton to point out the obvious when I was a difficult and troublesome lad of seventeen. At some point, everyone but my grandfather allowed the nonsense to go by the wayside. Oh how he hated my mother. I would love you no matter whose son you are. Would you now?

127

Eliza Lloyd

Yes. Even if it was the Earl of Redding? Edwards father? Anne asked, her brows shooting high. She clamped her mouth shut. Edwards father, he confirmed. Anne burst into a peal of laughter, burying her face at his neck. So you asked me to marry you to get revenge on him? The man with whom your mother cavorted? What do you take me for? he asked in mock seriousness. I asked you to marry me because I wanted to fuck myself senseless with the scandalous Widow Alsept. Well, you have succeeded admirably, Your Grace. They laughed. So you have saved the day, avenged your honor and the captive maiden has fallen madly in love with you. What more can you possibly accomplish this year? He rolled her onto her back, looking down at her. What more indeed? I think we shall have to make a list, starting with a summer trip to Wales. No, Rand. My father would be embarrassed. At your highfaluting ways? He lives very simply. He would not know what to do with a duke. Then we shall let Beaumaris Castle and hell have twenty rooms all to himself. And my sisters? Rand nodded. But not my brother. Hell insist on bringing his wife. And that brood of heathens they call children. Oh Rand. Say it. I love you. I love you. I love you. Thats all well and good, but Id rather you show me.

*****
Annes happiness knew no bounds. The summer weeks in Wales had passed with unutterable happiness for her. Rand was still concerned because she cried at every opportunity and reasoned that it was somehow related to Garnette and the kidnapping so many months ago. Such simple pleasures as Rands love, the children shed thought would never be hers and the reunion with her family made her life seem complete. Papa and her sisters had waved them on their way to Bridgeton four weeks ago, while they all traveled back to the south of Wales.

128

Wicked Temptation

She had only been to Bridgeton oncefor a month after they had been married. Renewing those acquaintances, visiting with the tenants and neighbors, making a loving home for all of them seemed like a task fit for someone more worthy than simple Anne Porter. The servants gave her subtle hints and the head housekeeper took to her like an old mother hen, clucking and pecking about this and that. Each of them had their own way of acknowledging and approving of her as the duchess. Rand said it didnt matter that she was a phony. Shed cupped his balls and squeezed until he had apologized. As for Rand, he spent his days riding and hunting and fishing. Jojo was dressed to accompany him each morning, often sitting on the bottom step of the wide marble staircase waiting for his father to appear. Jojo was horrified when Anne suggested Sarah and Daniel should accompany them on a fishing trip and was thoroughly pleased when his papa said he was right, this trip was for the men. Rand let Jojo take credit for fish that couldnt possibly have been landed by a now-five-year-old boy. Later, she was even more horrified when Rand suggested they go fishing together. I have no idea how! And I do not want to touch my food when its fresh and thrashing out of water. Trust me, I will show you all the tricks. Oh I know all about it. Spittle and worms and animal innards and who knows what else. But Im going to my favorite fishing hole, he said. Anne turned a sharp gaze, but he was busy writing on a blotter, totally ignoring her questioning stare. Fishing hole? Well, she had to erase his previous memories of that damned fishing hole. Anne had discreetly asked about Miss Becky Sadler and was pleased to learn she had married and moved to a neighboring estate. And when would this sojourn occur? Anne could be all generosity unless it involved Rand and any other woman. This afternoon. After lunch. Ill be ready. She thought she detected a smile. The snappy little gig, along with the singular gray horse pulling it, pranced on the gravel driveway as Pelham escorted her down the stairs and then lifted her into the carriage. A footman carried a large wicker basket that was stowed in the back along with Rands promised fishing gear, including a tin bucket, a net and a blanket. He whistled down the drive. Anne held her parasol at an angle but mostly watched Rand as he glanced about with boyish longing, ready to run along the stream barefoot, if only he werent the present duke. They eventually left the well-trod road and headed through a lush meadow with waving grasses that reached past the wheels. Bugs whizzed by Annes face so she

129

Eliza Lloyd

angled the parasol to ward off those little creatures. She did not want to find them in her hair tonight. They turned again, this time following a creek that meandered southward. When Rand stopped the buggy underneath a large hawthorn tree, he turned to her. Well, this is it. The famous fishing hole. Infamous, he stated. Anne looked around. The stream swept into a wide, rocky pool. Firs and spruces lined the far bank. Their side had a very nice sloping hill that gracefully arched into the water. He jumped down and turned for her. She scooted toward him and he grasped her waist and hoisted her down, bringing her flush against his body. He bent to press a light kiss against her lips. Consider this your Hyde Park fantasy. Tonight, there will be a full moon. I couldnt oblige you on the early summer request. I hope late summer will do. I imagine the water will be warmer though. Really? she asked, forgetting that she had mentioned her wish to be naked out of doors. No one will see us? I will see you. And soon. The fish dont bite in the afternoon, but I might. He pulled the blanket and the wicker basket from the carriage and sought a smooth place to spread out. He snapped the blanket wide and it floated into a near perfect square, only hung up in a few spots by particularly stubborn sprouts of grass. He braced his hands against his hips. I would have you naked now. Now? Yes, now. I didnt ignore my ducal duties to frolic in the grass with a married prude. Now undress yourself, or I will help. Anne had prepared in her own way. She was entirely bare underneath her skirts and she felt the familiar wetness of arousal, so easily stimulated by Rands merest suggestion of foreplay. He removed his jacket and dropped it to the blanket. His actions indicated that he would be participating, except that he lowered himself to the blanket and then leaned back on his hands, his legs stretched out in front of him as he watched. Annes sense of modesty overcame her and she looked around, expecting the eyes of the hills upon her. We are entirely alone, madam. She tugged at a ribbon in her hair. Breezy wisps flowed around her face and she suddenly felt like a young girl preparing for her first lover. Rands expression grew soft as his gaze swept over her body. Already, his burgeoning erection was visible beneath his doeskin breeches.

130

Wicked Temptation

The strings tying up the front of her pink muslin day dress came loose with a few pulls and tugs. She spread the bodice to reveal her naked breasts. Rand smiled. You came prepared. Carrie had fussed at her about not wearing her chemise and undergarments and Anne had put a quick stop to that hash when shed snapped, You dont think we are really going fishing, do you? Carrie had blushed and stammered and allowed the duchess her way. Im always prepared. You never know when there might be a fire to put out, she said. Well, Lady Pelham, then you might assist me. Ive a fire burning right here. He cupped his erection and left his hand in place, rubbing over his genitals. She pushed the sleeves down her arms. Her breasts had never seen the light of day, and she smiled when the warmth of the sun touched and caressed them in the afternoon heat. She arched into the sun, her breasts proud and protruding. Does it feel good? he asked. His eyelids drooped in sleepy wonder. Wonderful. Everything. All of it. Take it off. I want to see you naked in the light of day. Wiggling out of her skirts, she kicked off her shoes and stepped onto the blanket. Glorious sun coated the front of her body. Rand groaned and lay back, crossing his arms behind his head. She lifted her hands in the air and closed her eyes. A soft breeze washed across her body and her nipples hardened. Her hair brushed against her back and shoulders. Beautiful, she heard Rand say, as if his words were the very wind caressing her. She turned in slow circles. Dancing patterns flashed against the back of her eyelids. Birds tweeted and bugs buzzed in song while the creek gurgled a merry tune in perfect harmony with the beauty of the day. Anne, I need you now. She came to a stop, opened her eyes and took the few steps across the soft blanket. On his back, Rand lay waiting. He had opened his breeches and held his stiff cock in one tight fist. He held it up for her. Lifting one foot, she stepped across him. His eyes opened wide, watching as she went to one knee and then the other, straddling him, bracing her hands against his chest as she settled. She pushed away his hand and took his cock in her own, caressing with both hands in light playful strokes. How is your fantasy so far? he asked. My fantasy ended a few minutes ago. The Duke of Pelhams fantasy starts now, she said, causing him to smile. By all means.

131

Eliza Lloyd

She repositioned her body, her legs open over his cock. She leaned forward, her breasts caressed along the silk of his shirt. His hands cupped her and kneaded while she sought out his beautiful mouth. The surroundings were tailor-made for long languorous kisses and Anne lavished them on him, not only feeling the soft sighs as they breathed in each other, but the quick jerks between her legs as Rand grew progressively more aroused. Finally she opened her mouth over his, cupped his face and slipped her tongue inside. The kiss turned into something more. He turned aggressive, his hands shifted to her ass as he crushed her to him and his mouth ravished her in hard, open-mouthed kisses. His hand searched between her legs and she felt him position his cock while urging her to give him room. She tilted slightly. The tip of his cock slid along the sleek, desperate folds until the blunt end found the deep recess of her body. Taking him, she slid down hard, settling over him. He groaned into her mouth, clutched her knees and started thrusting from his hips. Anne gained control, using her legs to slide up and down the thick, satisfying length. Rands hands fell to his side. Yes, he encouraged as she slid downward, taking him all and squeezing as she lifted off, nearly losing him at the tip. He sucked in air between his teeth. Faster, Anne. She, too, experienced the need for a quick, hard orgasm. Something glorious befitting the perfectness of the day. Something shattering like a sunburst. Her thighs burned as she rode him, his thickness rubbing the sleek and sensitive skin as she swelled around him. He did strange things to her. Just being with him excited her. He had only to look at her and her body hummed an immediate response, welcoming him in a way she couldnt explain or deny. The familiar tightness started low in her back. The nub between her legs ached. Anne sank low, filled and full, when the first soaring pleasure started and swept over her. She did screamthe piercing swell echoing in the clearing around them. Rands hand grasped her hips and he surged into her as the tidal wave of spasms broke over her, grasping and pulling at the erection inside her. Underneath her, Rand moaned. The heat of his ejaculation warmed her much like the sun on her bare skin. Anne closed her eyes, her face turned upward as the heated rays bathed her body. With a quick turn, Rand rolled with her until she was on her back and he was over her, looking down. Staring and smiling. Her hands clutched his hard, muscled arms. I think I will go fishing with you every day, she said on a relaxed sigh. That can be arranged. Rand sat up and worked at his boots. Ann helped, reaching around and working at the studs of his shirt. She peeled it back and allowed her hands to roam over the

132

Wicked Temptation

beautiful masculine skin, the wide shoulders. Encircling him, she slid her hands over the solid pectorals and playfully pinched his nipple. He only laughed, plucked her hand from his chest and kissed her palm. Finally, he wiggled from his breeches and they stretched out on the blanket, both replete and happy. Rand lay on his side while Annes head rested on his outstretched arm. They talked of inconsequential things, hopeful dreams and the next time they would be in Bridgeton. His free hand stroked down her chest and over her belly. With a sudden jerk, he removed his arm from behind her head, sat up and braced it at his side as he looked down at her. Why didnt you tell me? Concern etched every line of his face. His palm still rested over her bellybutton. Why didnt I tell you what? Youre pregnant. Anne laughed and then laughed again. Im not. I would know and Im not preg She shook her head in denial. Im not pregnant. She gripped his wrist, attempting to remove his hand from her stomach. Stop imagining things. I would know. Would you? His gaze returned to her belly and he traced the slight mound. Cook has been feeding me too many apple tarts. And Ive been feeding you too much cock. Youre pregnant, Anne. Ive been married before and have three children. Do you think I dont know a pregnant woman when I see one? She sat up. Angry. Stop it. She opened her mouth to say something else but burst into tears instead. Im not. I cant be, she wailed. And the most obvious clue, he said, taking her into his arms to let her cry. He had grown adept at this particular comfort, having offered it several times in the past few weeks. She had said it was because of the joy of being with her family. I should have noticed before. He counted on his fingers from the last time he remembered her coursesafter theyd left London. He had thought it odd, but mistakenly attributed her missed courses to her age, something he would not voice to Anne, lest he put his life in peril. You must be about four and a half months, give or take a few days. Ill send for Doctor Hayes in the morning. Maybe well stay at Bridgeton until after the baby is born. That would get us to the end of January. A month or two to recuperate. Just in time for spring planting. He slowed for a minute before he said his next words, Anne, dont worry. Youll be safe. I promise. Im not going to let anything happen to you. Its just that so many things could go wrong. The other babies? You lost them early?

133

Eliza Lloyd

She nodded. You are at least four and a half months, Anne. Any doctor will tell you that most of the risk is past. Im not pregnant, she said again. You are healthy and you will have the best care. All will be well. Ive decreed it to be so. He grinned like a foollike the young, irrepressible fool she had married. Congratulations, Anne. Youre going to be a mother. She flopped back down on the blanket and covered her face with both hands. Fine, call Doctor Hayes. Hell tell you Im too old to have a child. He pried one hand away. Why are you unhappy? Dont you want my child? Do men think impregnating a woman is a sign of their virility? One of them. Seriously, do you not want to have the baby? You dont know that Im pregnant. You wont admit that youre pregnant. Why are you afraid? Rand brushed away a spider bent on marching toward Anne. What if something happens to you? Anne, listen to me. You are a duchess. Your child will be the child of a duke. None of that matters if I cant provide. I know what happens when there is no property, no proper provisions. I had nothing more than a small allowance from the barons estates when his heir marched in. He snorted. Provide? Do you think I havent taken measures to protect you? To see that you are safe? How much more would I do for you and a child? When Joseph grows up, he may feel differently about me. Hell have a wife. I may not have lived down the gossip. So many excuses. Tell me you want our child. Oh Rand. I will love any part of you including this child. I dont want to fail it. I dont want it to grow up poor or hungry. Do you trust me, Anne? Oh yes, with my life. Then trust me in this. I will see that you, and you alone, have everything you need to live safely and comfortably long after I am gone. I will buy you a house, a mansion, a castlewhatever and wherever you want to live. You are my life. Let me do this for you. Im not pregnant, she said petulantly. Lud, she was pregnant! Anne could not wrap her mind around the idea. She sniffed again. All the emotion and changes in her life were easily explained away. Shed tucked the possibilityimprobabilityinto a far recess of her mind the one time she had allowed herself to think about the scary proposition.
134

Wicked Temptation

Rand laughed, the merry sound filling the glade. Im going to be a father. Again. Anne had turned away on her side, her back to him. With a quick motion born of years of practice, he came in behind her, wrapping his arm over her hip, his finger slipping between her legs. Now we must plan. Im going to give you only one week to whelp before I come knocking at your bedchamber. You are a beast, you know that? Because you spoil me. Now the water waits, my little jaded nymph, and Im in the mood for a naked swim. Anne giggled. Oh I forgot something. What? I bought a set of Chinese jade statuettes from Louis Ederline. Youre going to love them. One hundred poses in all. Poses? As in sexual? Anne smiled, turning into his embrace. Of course sexual. A new position every one hundred days. Ederline drove a hard bargain. Youll be getting the bill in a few weeks. I love them already. Am I the luckiest man alive? Did you ever doubt it? Ill let you know in one hundred days.

135

About the Author

Eliza thinks romance writing is nearly as good as the real thing. Given her choice of professions, she would have preferred to be a 19th-century archeologist, but she is perfectly happy living in the 21st century and comfortably writing about such romantic but inconceivably inconvenient times, instead. She enjoys traveling, movies, everyone elses novels and a good meal out with friends on Saturday night. Her greatest flaw is that she believes there is such a thing as true love. Dont tell her otherwise, please. Eliza welcomes comments from readers. You can find her email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.

Tell Us What You Think We appreciate hearing reader opinions about our books. You can email us at Comments@EllorasCave.com.

Also by Eliza Lloyd

Wicked Desires

Discover for yourself why readers cant get enough of the multiple award-winning publisher Elloras Cave. Whether you prefer ebooks or paperbacks, be sure to visit EC on the web at www.ellorascave.com for an erotic reading experience that will leave you breathless.

www.ellorascave.com