The Duke's Temptation (14 page)

Chapter 19

It seemed an eternity had slipped by before the coach finally rolled into the courtyard of Frenton Hall. Instead of finding the drive a nuisance, Elizabeth had welcomed the extra time as a way to get her emotions well in hand.
Or as much as possible after complete devastation
.

In truth, between Phoebe’s mounting excitement, and keeping Aunt Millie from discovering what had happened, Elizabeth had had little time to think of Gabe—not that she’d managed to completely push him from her thoughts.

Fortunately, with him riding outside the coach, she hadn’t been forced to endure his company, except for the few times they’d stopped for necessities and for Phoebe to release some pent up energy. All in all, the full day of travel had been endurable.

With Phoebe content looking out the opposite window at the passing line of trees, and Aunt Millie encouraging her excitement, Elizabeth took the moment to peer from her own window. She stifled a gasp at the sight before her. Through an opening of the tress, she caught a view of the most remarkable structure.

The expansive mansion, sitting in the midst of sculptured lawns, consisted of two wings extending perpendicular from the main section, and based on the number of windows, it could house a small village.

The carriage rolled to a stop. Bubbling with excitement, Aunt Millie barely restrained Phoebe long enough for the footman to open the door and offer a hand. After she stepped free of the coach, Elizabeth noticed Gabe standing off to the side. She silently seethed that he’d allowed the footman to assist them, never stepping forth to help.

Determined to ignore his impolite behavior, she tilted her head and scanned the house. Seeing the detailed architecture up close made the place even more striking.

She would never claim to know anything regarding building design, but even her novice eye appreciated the beauty of the red brick, multi-storied building sitting at the head of the forecourt. Each window set off by white framing matched perfectly with the white trimmed gables. The only thing that would have made it more impressive would be if it were an actual castle.

Engrossed, Elizabeth failed to brace herself against the warm caress of Gabe’s deep voice across her traitorous body, bringing forth her earlier pain. “Ladies, welcome to Frenton Hall.” He gestured to the front door. “I know there is much to see but after the long journey, I’m sure you’d like to freshen up. Possibly rest. Your rooms should be ready. If you’ll follow me, I’ll have you directed there.”

After they’d left the inn, Gabe had been distant, never engaging Elizabeth—or even Aunt Millie—in conversation unless it had been unavoidable. Even then, his comments had been succinct. Much to her dismay and then fury, it appeared upon reaching his estate, his manner remained the same. The new restraint between the two of them caused Elizabeth to mourn, not only for what she realized she would never have with him, but for the loss of the friendship and ease they’d once shared.

Distracted by stealing glances at Gabe from beneath her lowered lids, she’d missed the exchange between him and her aunt, and only partially registered the others had started forward. As they climbed the stone steps and entered the house, she’d been left standing in the drive.

“Child, don’t dally.”

Still rooted in her spot at the bottom of the stairs, Elizabeth snapped to at Aunt Millie’s quick command. Even as she followed in their wake, her body rebelled at having to comply with Gabe’s subtle demand to retire to her chamber. Including Aunt Millie in his dictate alleviated some of her annoyance at his highhandedness, albeit only a little. Most of it remained, simmering.

She stepped inside, and when she noticed Phoebe huddled at Aunt Millie’s side, Elizabeth chided herself for being so selfish. The child’s earlier wonderment appeared to have been erased by apprehension. Her wide blue eyes glanced around, never staying in one place too long, Jacqueline and Victoria hugged tightly to her chest.

Elizabeth remembered her reason for being there and marched to the child. Not caring what the servants would think, or even Gabe for that matter, she scooped the little girl into her arms and said softly, “Don’t worry, sweet, we can explore everything together.”

She turned and addressed Gabe. “Please ensure my chamber is beside Phoebe’s. A connecting door would be ideal.”

Gabe brought his full attention to her and the penetration of his deep brown eyes pierced her heart. She hadn’t been prepared for the effect of meeting his gaze—not after how he had avoided her all day. Her heart melted before she could remind her body of his rejection.

His eyes darted between her and his child. A spark of something flared in the brown depths but it was masked before she could identify it. “I had the nursery prepared for Phoebe. Your rooms are on the floor below.”

She raised her chin. “That won’t do. Until suitable care for Phoebe is established, I want her close to me, so I can ensure she is being properly attended.”

He took a step nearer, almost causing her to step back, and narrowed his eyes. “I assure you, my staff is more than capable of seeing to
my
daughter.”

Elizabeth swallowed the gasp at his choice of words, every one as sharp as a knife. Bluntly asserting his right over Phoebe only reminded her of the fragile bond she had with the child. Now that a future with Gabe seemed nonexistent, her separation from the sweet poppet was imminent.

Fear of losing Phoebe rang through her, igniting her anger.

Her displeasure propelled her forward, until she stood before Gabe. Phoebe, settled in her arms as she was, created a slight distance between them. The hot retort on her tongue was halted by Aunt Millie placing a gentle hand on Elizabeth’s shoulder.

“Why don’t I take Phoebe for a walk while the two of you sort this out.” Aunt Millie extracted the child from Elizabeth’s embrace. Hand in hand, the two turned to exit the house when the older woman added under her breath, “Preferably out of earshot of the servants.”

At the mention of the servants, Elizabeth became aware of the collection of eyes on her and Gabe. They must have gathered in preparation of their arrival. Before embarrassment from her outburst settled over her, Gabe grabbed her arm and ushered her into a room off the hall.

More angered with his handling of her than relieved by his rescue, she confronted him the moment they stepped into the room, pulling her arm free. “What do you think you are doing?”

The door clicked shut behind him. Her eyes flew to the wooden barrier, then back at Gabe.

“Don’t worry,” he growled. “Your reputation is safe. If nothing else, my staff is loyal and won’t think twice about a closed door.” He walked past her, further into the room. “Besides, I saved you from spouting more nonsense in front of my servants.”

“Saved me?
Saved
me?” she raged, swinging to face his retreating back. “How dare you! You ignore a simple, reasonable request and
I’m
the one spouting nonsense?”

He pivoted so suddenly that she took an involuntary step back. “What about your
demand
was reasonable?” Like a predatory cat, he continued to advance on her. Not about to accept defeat, she planted her feet, prepared to stand firm.

“A child’s place is in the nursery. The sooner Phoebe becomes accustomed to that, the better.”

His insensitivity to the child’s needs astounded her. “Now—after a week of ignoring your daughter—you’ve decided to try your hand at being a father.”

Anger flashed in his eyes and he roared, “Exactly! I’m her father. Me. Not you. Let us not forget why you are here.”

She matched his fury with her own and closed the remaining distance separating them, so close that her dress covered the toes of his boots. “You could have fooled me. Your cronies have seen you more than your own daughter has. When have you taken a moment to teach Phoebe anything?” She knew her words were unfair the moment they left her mouth, but she was too incensed to stop. “As you so kindly pointed out, I am here for a reason, and that is to ensure proper care for Phoebe. Something you yourself admitted you are not capable of doing.”

Elizabeth poked a single finger into his hard chest. At her touch, his eyes flew wide, before they narrowed, almost menacing. “If you want what is best for
your
daughter, you are going to listen to me—and my
silly
requests. Do you understand?”

“Oh, I understand all right. Now, let me make sure you understand.” He lunged forward, forcing her to scramble—either that or fall on her bottom. “If you continue to provoke me—” Another step, as she retreated. “Continue to push me—” One more step forward, and she backed right into the closed door.

His muscled frame leaned into hers. “Continue to dictate to me, I’ll have no choice but to demonstrate to you exactly who is in charge.”

Her body began to tremble when he lifted his hand and traced the tip of his finger along her jaw. Just when she thought she would melt at his feet, he tapped her chin as one would a child and stepped away. “Now, run along. I have much to do before dinner.”

Unable to move, she gaped at him as he dismissed her and crossed to what appeared to be a desk, making her realize they were in an office of some sort. The least of her concerns, not after his latest management of her. Would the man ever cease dismissing her?

That would have to wait until later; she had more important issues to deal with. She squared her shoulders and pushed away from the door. “About that room for Phoebe . . .” She trailed off, deliberately.

He stopped in mid-stride, fisted his hands, and gave a slight shake of his head, but he didn’t turn. A tiny flicker of amusement warmed her at his obvious displeasure.
Serves the man right for his manner toward me
. She remained quiet and almost gave up on him responding.

Then he ground out tightly, “Inform the housekeeper, Mrs. Wilkes, you should be moved to the peach suite. There is a connecting door to a smaller room that Phoebe may use.”

“Mrs. Wilkes? Do all your servants carry the name Wilkes?” she asked, not even trying to disguise her satisfaction at his surrender.

He continued to his desk. “Only Wilkes and his wife. When I’m in London, Wilkes travels along. His wife prefers the country, so she stays in Frenton.” He sat at the desk, still not looking at Elizabeth. “Now, if that will be all, I am busy.”

At the unmistakable dismissal, she opened the door to leave, but stopped when the urge to goad him became too great to ignore. “Thank you for seeing things my way . . . Your Grace.” Before he could respond, she swept through the doorway, closing the door behind her.

Chapter 20

Bloody, bloody hell!
Gabe dropped his elbows on the desk with a dull thud and lowered his head onto his palms. What the devil was he to do with the minx? One moment he wanted to strangle her. The next, hold her close and kiss her senseless. One thing was clear; until a governess for Phoebe could be hired, her presence would torture him.

Frustrated, Gabe pushed the chair back, scraping it against the floor, and stood. With one purpose in mind he crossed the room to the waiting decanter of brandy. He gave silent thanks that even though the office belonged to his land steward, it was always freshly stocked and with nothing less than the best.

Glass and decanter in hand, he took up residence in one of the chairs arranged across from the desk, stretched out his legs, and proceeded to indulge in the fine liquor. Maybe the chaos of his life would appear less dire after a few glasses. Or bottles. And if the brandy didn’t help, there was always his stash of whiskey. Either way, he would rid himself of the fierce desire Elizabeth provoked, even when she was being demanding.

He smiled as he recalled their latest skirmish. If he hadn’t reined in the longing to pull her into his arms and show her how dominating he could be, the confrontation would’ve had an entirely different outcome. It had taken more willpower than he’d expected to step away from her. If only their tangles could end in more pleasurable ways. Preferably in a bed, not that he was particular about where the distinct pleasure of claiming her occurred.

After his behavior at the inn, he’d been surprised she hadn’t slapped him the moment he’d gotten close. Visions of her face as he’d spurned her
still
haunted him. He lifted the glass, hoping a mouthful of the potent liquid would burn away the discomfort, but all he found was the bottom of the tumbler.

Gabe lifted the decanter and quickly rectified the situation. This would be easier if he dispensed with the glass altogether. He took a healthy swallow and savored the heat that started in his gut and spread wide. At least he was still capable of feeling something.

Anything besides the dread that had run rampant since Elizabeth had whispered she loved him.

If he’d been anywhere besides a posting inn with women to escort the next morning, he would’ve found the closest bottle of spirits and numbed his body, perhaps for days. The night had been hellish enough, sitting in the uncomfortable chair—one not meant for someone of his size—before the downstairs fire, slowly sipping the swill the innkeeper swore was the best around. He’d lied.

Unfortunately, neither the dull ache surrounding his head nor the morning light had made his mood any better. And when Elizabeth had appeared, a hopeful smile gracing her beautiful face, the events that had unfolded the night before had come rushing back. He knew his flight from the inn had been abrupt, but every inch of him had screamed to retreat. Before he broke down, pulled her into his arms and accepted the love she’d offered.

He polished off another glassful, rested his head back, and let the fire run through his body. If he consumed enough, maybe he wouldn’t feel so horrible at the distance he’d been forced to erect between himself and Elizabeth. He hadn’t wanted to, but after a night of contemplating, he’d found no other answer. No matter how difficult it would be, he would do anything to keep from further hurting Elizabeth.

He cringed at the harsh words he’d thrown at her in the yard outside the inn, but he’d seen little alternative. Forcing her to perceive him as the man he was would no doubt destroy any love she felt for him. He wouldn’t think about why, if it was for the best, doing so had tightened something in his chest, making it hard to breathe.

He lifted the decanter to refill the glass and found it empty. When had that happened? Surely he hadn’t managed to polish off the entire thing. He soon realized he had somehow accomplished precisely that as he rose on slightly unsteady feet and the effects of so many drinks flooded him. He welcomed his intoxicated state. It was familiar. Something he knew how to navigate. Now, if only he had a willing woman, a woman who wouldn’t profess her love, a woman who knew how to carry on with a man like him, he might somehow manage to dispel Elizabeth entirely from his thoughts.

Gabe shook his head in disgust and sent the room spinning with his efforts. With years of practice, he righted himself. Another woman wouldn’t solve his problems. His body craved no one else. And he wasn’t about to embarrass himself trying to work up the enthusiasm to take one.

Constant inebriation held no appeal, either. He’d have to find some other way to keep from dragging Elizabeth off and pleasuring her in ways she never dreamed possible—ways he reflected on all too frequently.

On wobbly feet, Gabe tried to dispose of the empty decanter, set on retrieving a fresh one. His actions impaired by his half drunken condition, the bottle clanged upon hitting the others and he only just saved it from falling to the floor.

“Oh, Your Grace. I hadn’t realized you arrived,” an all-too-calm voice announced from the doorway.

Righting the bottles, Gabe turned to the doorway and the man standing there. Still sober enough to see clearly—and thankfully seeing only one of everything—he recognized his land steward.

“Phillip,” Gabe said, relieved to note his words appeared to be even and not slurred. “What are you doing about at this time of the day?”

Phillip approached the desk. “I knew you would be arriving soon. There are some reports I wanted you to review.” The efficient steward shuffled papers on the desk. “I wanted to ensure all was in order for when you arrived.”

Gabe contained a chuckle. The man never ceased to impress. He might be a couple years Gabe’s senior, but if Gabe was forced to speculate, he’d say Phillip lacked the more fundamental life experiences men his age possessed. However, when it came to managing Gabe’s various estates, the man had proved invaluable—and a touch annoying.

Having no inclination to oversee the estates himself, shortly after his father’s death, Gabe had released the reins to Phillip, which allowed for the pursuit of more leisurely activities.

After a few short months, Phillip had improved things greatly and even settled a few long-standing disputes with the tenants. Now, if only Gabe could make the man ease off slightly, affairs of the estate would be perfect.

“Phillip. We’ve been over this. I trust your instincts implicitly.” Gabe moved toward the desk carefully. “There is no need for me to review everything.”

“Thank you for the confidence, Your Grace, but in some instances, I feel you should be consulted.” Phillip regarded Gabe steadily. “This being your estate and all.”

It might be the alcohol fog surrounding him, but it sounded as if Phillip had chastised him. Gabe narrowed his eyes at his steward. The man’s face was the picture of innocence. Not a hint of disapproval could be found. His employee had never stepped out of place before, and it certainly didn’t seem that he’d start now. Gabe decided to ignore the remark.

“Especially if you are going to be investing in endeavors of your own.”

The remark reminded Gabe of his blackmailer and the excuse he had given his steward regarding the significant amount of money Gabe had needed on very short notice.

Getting away from his tormentor had been one of the many reasons Gabe had agreed to leave London. Knowing someone might be watching him whenever he left his house had sent shivers over his neck, and brought back feelings of when his father had been alive.

“I don’t think it necessary, but if you believe there is a need, I will stop by tomorrow.” Disinterested in looking at whatever Phillip had prepared, Gabe had every intention of finding an excuse to be unavailable tomorrow, and the day after, and any day he was in residence. He’d simply have to add Phillip to the list of people he planned to avoid.

He could put his name right next to Elizabeth’s.

I should have stayed in London.