7
Andrew studied his reflection, his stomach churning. The note he had received yesterday had caused him no end of worry, and he had written to his brother in warning almost immediately. He was torn between rushing off to Scotland to assist his brother in whatever difficulties came his way, or staying here to continue with his reparations as well as his growing attachment to Miss Marley.
Whatever the note had meant, it certainly did not bode well for the Duke. Gritting his teeth, Andrew waited for the valet to finish fixing his cravat, feeling tension race through his body. How was he meant to enjoy his evening with Miss Marley, when he had this on his mind?
Miss Marley.
The thought of her brought yet more confusion to his mind. He cared for her, found her amiable and well spoken, with emerald eyes that filled his consciousness whenever he thought of her. But yet, there could be nothing true between them were he to keep up his pretense of being his brother. Deep down, Andrew knew that this was why he had suggested taking her to Vauxhall Gardens, for it would be quite dark and no-one would really be able to recognize him, not unless he decided to go indoors for a time. It was a pleasant evening, however, and everyone would most likely stay outdoors, particularly when the time for the fireworks drew near. As the valet stepped away, Andrew let out a soft groan, tormented over what to do. In inviting her to his soiree later that week, he would have no choice but to tell her the truth, but mayhap he could simply enjoy her company this evening and face the difficulty of having to tell her the truth another time. Were he honest, Andrew worried that the lady was only interested in his company because of his status, although he hoped she wanted to be with him for much more than that. He wondered, though, how she would react when she discovered he was not all he seemed. He could already see her eyes flashing, her pale cheeks flushed with ire.
"One more night," he muttered to himself, looking at his reflection. He looked perfectly proper, and the thought of Miss Marley on his arm made him smile despite his troubling thoughts. "One more night," he repeated again, before walking from the room.
Arabella could barely breathe, as the Duke escorted her from the carriage with her father following behind. He had been so kind to her thus far, showing her a great deal of attention, to the point that she had almost forgotten her true reasons in seeking out his company. Of course, her father had taken great pains to remind her about the necklace and had muttered something about disappearing for a time during the Vauxhall event. Arabella had begged him not to leave her in an improper situation but had her ears blistered in response. Her heart had sunk into her slippers, only to beat frantically in her chest as the Duke arrived.
How foolish it was for her to care for him so! Despite her true task, she had been looking forward to seeing him again. Over the last few weeks, he had called on her a number of times and had proved himself to be a gentleman, despite the rumors. Her father had been thrilled, of course, especially when the invitation to the Duke’s evening soiree had arrived at their town house. He had ensured she’d accepted at once, reminding her that it would be the perfect opportunity to find the Marley necklace.
I must not let my heart care for him, she told herself, as he tucked her hand into the crook of his elbow. She looked up at him, his face hidden in shadow as they began to walk around the gardens. It was already quite crowded, but the Duke had mentioned something about there being a great number of paths around the grounds which they could take. There were refreshments too, of course, before the wonderful fireworks as the final event of the evening. Glancing over her shoulder, Arabella was horrified to see her father duck away from them, leaving her entirely alone with the Duke. It was most improper, and she had to hope that the darkness would keep her from being recognized. The last thing she wanted was for the ton to start rumors about her, which could ruin her reputation.
“Shall we go further into the gardens?”
His voice was warm and Arabella felt herself respond almost immediately. "Yes, of course," she murmured, aware that he'd not even noticed the lack of her father's company. To her surprise, his hand rested on hers, and, with shock, she realized he was not wearing any gloves.
Sparks flew between them, as Arabella gave in to the emotions flooding her heart. She had tried so hard not to feel anything for the man, but it was impossible to deny it any longer. His touch spread warmth through her fingers and up her arm, both exciting and terrifying her in equal measure. She was glad for the shadows hiding her hot cheeks, their path taking them into a treed canopy that hid even the moon from view. A few soft lamps lit their path, giving them just enough light to see by.
Glancing up at him, Arabella saw that he was looking down at her, his dark eyes studying her features. Her mouth went dry and she struggled to think of something to say.
"Miss Marley," he said, quietly. "It appears we have lost your father." She winced at the slightly unbelieving tone in his voice, as though he realized it was by design.
“I had nothing to do with his departure from us,” she replied, defensively. “I begged him not to.”
There was silence for a moment, as Arabella realized she had given a little too much away.
“I see,” came the eventual reply. “Then you do not wish to be here with me?”
Arabella swallowed hard, turning her face away from him. “I very much enjoy your company, Your Grace. I just did not wish my father to put me in a situation such as this, both for the sake of my reputation as well as your own.”
He laughed, easing her tension. “You need not fear about my reputation, Miss Marley, but you are quite right about your own.” His hand tightened on hers for a moment. "It is just as well that this place is filled with shadows then, is it not? For I shall ensure that no one recognizes you, not until I have returned you to your father."
"I thank you," she murmured, realizing that their steps were slowing. Spotting a small arbor to their left, Arabella took in a deep breath. Despite what she had to do, despite what would probably happen to their attachment once he discovered what it was she was truly doing, she gave in to the desire raging through her.
Dropping his hand, she walked into the arbor, ensuring she was out of sight of the path. Turning, she stood and waited for him, hoping her meaning was clear. Her heart was beating so quickly, she thought it might jump from her chest, her nerves filling her entire body. For once she was determined to do something that was her own choosing, not what her father or anyone else imposed upon her.
After a few moments, she heard the Duke's footsteps as he slowly approached the arbor.
“Miss Marley?” he asked, softly. “Whatever are you doing?”
Catching his arm, Arabella pulled him gently towards her.
“This,” she murmured, before reaching up to kiss him.