Chapter Seven
The next two days they travelled together in a atmosphere of near hostile stoney silence. Charity knew she was behaving childishly but she didn’t care. Dane’s disregard for her feelings was no better than that of her uncle or the nurses and doctors of Bedlam. She missed Violet terribly and longed for the safe comfort of her home instead of the fear that held her captive every time they stepped across the threshold of another roadside inn that smelt of stale ale and unwashed bodies. Charity missed the comfort of her own bed as she laid awake most nights listening to the drunken noises coming from below stairs and then when that finally quieted the grunts, moans and cries that carried through the thin walls. It was the early hours of morning before the inn finally fell silent and by focusing on the even breathing of the man stretched out on the floor in front of their door was she able to fall into slumber.
What Charity missed the most was the peace and harmony she felt when she sat at the Broadwood pianoforte and let the melody transport her to another world. Most times she imagined a world where her parents had not died when she was a child of seven years and she had been able to travel to Paris to study music under the tutelage of some of the worlds best teachers and composers. She had secretly held onto that dream until the fateful day her life was drastically changed forever.
For a long time she had given up on having dreams of any kind when her life became an everyday struggle to survive but in the last year she had dared to dream again. Though her aspirations had changed music was still the central core that drove her to succeed and with Violet’s encouragement Charity developed a plan to open a music school for the blind. Now though the farther she travelled away from London the farther away that dream coming to fruition seemed to be.
When the carriage rolled to a stop for the third and she hoped final night at a roadside inn Charity was exhausted beyond words not just from the lack of sleep but also from the tension that prevailed between her and the duke. Every waking moment she was aware of his resentment, it hung like a dark cloud over the interior of the carriage and there were even moments when she contemplated suggesting he leave her at the nearest coaching station to fend for herself. Stopping just short of doing so every time because the thought being left totally alone frightened her more than being in the care of someone who didn’t truly want her around.
Yet Charity couldn’t dismiss how every time they stopped Dane took great care to see that her needs were always met whether it was safely guiding her through the crowded dining rooms above stairs to the chambers they share each night or insisting she take the bed while he slept upon the floor. Or when he stepped out of the room every evening as a maid or the innkeeper's wife assisted her in preparing for bed and then again each morning helping her dress for the day’s travel.
But all these small acts of kindness were destroyed every time he gruffly ordered her about like a mindless puppet. Charity was a mass of confused tightly wound nerves by the end of the third day and was thankful they had stopped earlier than usual. When he told her this was their last stop and by tomorrow afternoon they will have reached their destination Charity couldn’t be more relieved.
When Dane pulled open the door to step inside the lastest roadside inn, the Hog and Toad of many along the way Charity instinctively stepped closer to him when they were blasted by the uproarious noise that greeted them. She could tell there was quite a crowd crammed in the tap room and from the shouts of laughter, slurred words and the occasional squeal of delight from the bar maids that the crowd was well into their cups.
Dane tucked her into his side and pushed their way through to the bar where the haggard innkeeper rushed about trying to meet the demands of all his guests. While Dane procured accommodations and a meal Charity listened to the sound of voices around her realizing that not all the guests enjoying a mug or two of ale and perhaps a stolen feel of the unfortunate bar maid were working class men. In the far corner to her left she could hear the cultured tones of the well educated and she wondered why such men would be so far from London when the season was in full swing.
Before long Dane was moving her through the crowd and up the stairs to their room where he closed and locked the door behind him. Charity had learned that most bed chambers found in the inn’s were much the same so she was able to make her way to the bed without any problems. Here she plopped down with a heavy sigh as she pulled the gloves from her hands and tossing them aside not caring if they landed on the floor or wherever. After a few strained minutes where she could feel Dane’s eyes boring into her he suddenly turned and crossed to the door.
“I’ll be right back,” he declared coldly closing and locking the door before she could even protest.
His curt dismissal shouldn’t have bothered her but she felt the sting twist her insides and she had to suck her bottom lip in to keep it from trembling. Shaking off the urge to give into tears, something she had not done for since her first months in Bedlam, Charity decided to forego the evening meal in favor of some much needed sleep. Not bothering to wait for assistance she was certain would not come in the way of maid or mistress of the inn Charity through off the cloak then reached around and released the buttons running down the length of her back. She was just stepping out of her dress and petticoat when the door swung open and Dane stepped inside.
∞∞∞
Sweet Jesus! The sight that greeted him upon his return to the room was the last thing he expected but that didn’t mean he didn’t appreciate the vision of Charity standing before him clad only in her undergarments. The tight binding of her corset pushing her ample breasts up so they nearly flowed over the top of the sheer chemise she wore. He raked his gaze down her form and was gifted with the hint of shadowing between her thighs where his gaze wanted to linger. Suddenly his mouth was turned dry as sand and he had to swallow past the large lump lodged in his throat and for once he was glad for her lack of sight. He could adjust the discomfort his engorged cock trapped behind the fall of his trousers without worrying that she would see him doing so.
Suddenly realizing that she stood nearly naked in front of him Charity turned presenting her back to him. This did nothing to hide her womanly appeal for now he could see the round firmness of her cute little bottom. The dark line between her heart shaped cheeks begged for him to bury his cock in their heavenly warm and seek out the moist haven of her sheath. His heart slammed against his ribs and his breath dragged from his lungs in harsh pants as images of her beneath him scrambled his senses and blurred his vision. He was about to take a step toward her with the intention of making his imaginings reality when a knock sounded on the door.
Grabbing her cloak from where she had let it fall he tossed it over her shoulders noticing the lovely shade of pink that tinged her cheeks before he moved to answer the summons.
He put his hand on the pistol he always carried against his side while opening the door just a crack. Seeing the innkeeper on the other side with the item he had requested he stepped back and opened the door allowing the man to bring in the copper bathtub and set it in the middle of the small room. He was followed by one of the bar maids carrying buckets of steaming hot water which she quickly emptied before heading below stairs to fetch more. Dane snapped his thanks to the innkeeper who he thought was giving Charity far to much attention ushering the man out the door as the maid brought more buckets of water.
Dane went about lighting a fire in the grate to chase away the chill and when the maid emptied the last of the heated water in the tub she sashayed over to him with an exaggerated sway of her hips. Leaning in toward him, her barely covered breasts threatening to spill out of her clothing she ran her hand down his chest and stomach, “Anything more I can do for you Your Grace?”
Grabbing her wrist before her hand travelled any lower he led her to the door, “I will call on you when my wife is finished her bath and the tub needs removing.”
Slamming the door on the maid’s outraged face Dane leaned against it and raking his hand down his face shrugging off the unpleasant feeling the maid’s unwelcomed overtures left him with. Puffing out a breath he padded across the floor to stand behind Charity putting his hands on her shoulders.
“These days have been difficult and exhausting for you and I thought you might like to have a relaxing bath.”
She turned her head to say over her shoulder, “Thank you, that is very thoughtful of you.”
“Think of it as my way of apologizing for my unforgivable behavior the other day. In no way did I mean to make you feel unworthy or meaningless.” With the smallest of tugs he had her back resting against his front, he rested his chin on top her her head marvelling how nicely she fit.
“You are the most fascinating woman I know, Charity.” She hadn’t given him leave to use her given name but he liked the way it sounded coming off his lips.
He heard her tiny catch of breath when he lifted the cloak from her shoulders but she didn’t protest or move to cover herself. He could see her lush breast rise and fall with her quickened breath and he watched enthralled as her nipples tightened to stiff peaks. A smile broke across his face when he realized she was not as unaffected as she would like him to believe.
Still he was not going to act upon this attraction they both were feeling, at least not now when he knew she was near exhaustion and vulnerable.
“Let’s see about getting you in that bath.”
His fingers made quick work of loosening the ties of her corset, disappointed when instead of letting it fall to the floor Charity held it tight against her front. Moving her over to stand beside the tub he left her for just a moment to move a chair close where he then placed two thick linens and a bar of soap, not her usual scent but it wasn’t unpleasant. Next he located her night rail and robe out of her valise and draped them over the back of the chair. The entire time he was doing this he was telling her where everything was located within easy reach once she was soaking in the warm water.
Satisfied there was nothing more he could do he said, “I’ll leave you to your privacy so you can enjoy the bath.”
Moving to the door he was stopped by her soft voice, “Dane, you won’t be far?”
That was one of the first times she used his name and God he loved the way it sounded coming from her.
“I’ll just be below and I’ll sit where I can clearly view the door.”
She stopped him again before he could take his leave, “I accept your apology with gratitude Your Grace.”
He saw the corners of her mouth twitch and he wondered if she was teasing him by addressing him as his title. He hoped so, he liked the way they exchanged teasing remarks.
“It is my pleasure Miss Price.” He made sure to keep his voice light and was rewarded with her soft laugh as he closed the door behind him.
Feeling in higher spirits than he had the last two days Dane made his way down to the bar room where, upon flagging down a different barmaid than the one who blatantly propositioned him up stairs, he ordered an ale and a plate of supper for himself and one to be sent up to Charity then went in search of a seat. Finding a empty table across the room where he could clearly see the stairs Dane sat in the straight back wooden chair to watch the door of their chamber.
Sipping his ale Dane thought about the woman behind the closed door and realized with a start that he had come to truly admire her. He knew of no woman who could face her difficulties without complaint, certainly non of his acquaintance would have been able to tend to his wound the way Charity had. She had a strength and determination like no other yet there was a soft sensuality about her that continually called to him.
These past days watching her move about the room and knowing she was in the bed a mere few feet from him was maddening. Her delicate lilac scent, the warmth that radiated off her flawless alabaster skin and the supple hint of curves beneath her chemise, corset and petticoats all combined to stir his longing to rip the clothing from her body and explore the delights hidden beneath.
When the barmaid set a bowl of robust stew and fresh bread in front of him flaunting her ample curves Dane ignored her obvious invitation until she turned away peevishly. As he ate he found himself picturing Charity in the bath, how the water glistened on her skin, the way it lapped at her bountiful breast. He wondered what color her nipple were, a darker dusky rose or soft delicate pink? It didn’t real matter to him just so long as he could lavish each one with all the attention he hungered to give. His mouth watered just imagining the taste of her as he sucked the hard peak into his mouth and he found it difficult to swallow the tasteless stew.
Pushing the plate to the center of the table he set his elbows on the table and dragged his hands down his face as he expelled a long breath. He had to get his lustful thoughts under control or he would never survive the night without needing to relieve himself. It had not been since he was a young lad that he had to take himself in hand and he certainly he no interest in what the barmaid’s had to offer. He couldn’t recall a time when his thoughts were so consumed by a woman and the worst was he knew he could not have her.
Despite what he knew she must have endured during her confinement in Bedlam Charity was still too pure and refined for a man like him. He had always stayed clear of innocent seeming young maidens preferring his women to be of the more experienced nature. Wanting nothing more than a few hours of satisfying bed sport with the ability to walk away after with no regrets or expectations for anything permanent. Dane feared with Charity it would be completely different, once he had her he would want more and he could not offer her more not with the life he led. His work for the home office took him away for months at a time and he was required to do things that no marriage could survive. Charity deserved better than that.
Still knowing this did not put a halt to his wayward thoughts and images of her long dark hair spread across the pillow as she lay beneath him had his cock pressing painfully against the fall of his trousers. Discreetly adjusting himself and thankful his coat had the length to cover his obvious erection Dane pushed to his feet deciding enough time had passed. Taking the stairs two at a time he paused at the door to knock and waited for her to bid him enter. Even though the idea of seeing her naked skin glistening with moisture from the bath excited him he was not one to barge in on a young lady unexpectedly.
Dane waited for her to bid him enter before unlocking the door and stepping over the threshold. Part of him was disappointed that he did not find her still luxuriating in the tub but seeing her sitting before the fire, the light outlining her form through the thin material of her night rail, made up for that. The shape of her high firm breasts beckoned to him and he had to clench his fist to prevent from going over to her and filling his hands with her softness. The room seemed suddenly overly warm and he to pull on his shirt collar to breath. With a start he realized that Charity had said something to him that he hadn’t heard.
“I sorry what did you say?”
She stopped brushing the tangles out of her hair long enough to look at him strange, “I said the water is still warm if you wish to bathe.”
“Oh,” he dipped his fingers and found the water was indeed still warm, “perhaps I will.”
At least it would give his something to do besides watching her, he thought as he started to undo the knots of his cravat. He nearly groaned out loud when he saw Charity push to her feet, the firelight behind her showing him every curve from her delectable breasts down to her hips and thighs. He could see the faint outline of her nipples and a dusting of dark hair that hid the core of her womanhood.
Swallowing past the desire that tightened his throat Dane let his cravat fall to the floor at his feet as he worked the buttons of his waistcoat free. He couldn’t take his eyes off of her and he wondered how he could ever have thought her plain with nothing appealing about her. She was everything that was appealing and his body responded to her nearness with a demand that was hard to ignore. But he had to ignore this sudden craving he had for her, she was under his protection, under the protection of King and Country and there was no way on earth he would take advantage of that.
“Charity…” he cleared his throat, his voice sounded to low and desire laden. He watched the corner of her lips twitch, he come to know that was a sign that she was about to tease him.
“Would you like me to turn my back?”
Thankful that she seemed oblivious to the effects she was having on him Dane twirled his finger even though he knew she couldn’t see him doing so.
“Yes if you would be so kind. And no peeking.”
He was rewarded with her soft chuckle as she gave him her back, the soft throaty sound going straight to his cock. Shucking the rest of his clothes he stepped into the copper tub wishing the water was ice cold, that would be the only way to stop the raging erection that stood out from between his legs. That or he palmed himself off but there was no way in hell he could do that with her in the room. Taking a deep breath he sunk below the surface and even though his knees stuck way above the water he stayed there for as long as his lungs would allow, trying to picture anything that would cool his ardour.
Lungs screaming for air he finally resurfaced brushing the water from his face and sweeping his hand over his hair he dared to take a quick glance around for Charity. Seeing her sitting on the opposite side of the bed facing the blank and empty wall her shoulders slumped in defeat he felt a strange twisting in his chest.
Dane couldn’t even begin to imagine how devastating it must have been for her as a young girl nearing adulthood and about to step out into the ton to enjoy all its splendor, the gowns, the dancing and undoubtedly the countless admirers, only to have that suddenly taken from her. More than that though, the fact that she would never see the beauty of the sun rise after a long night, the delicate beauty of a single snowflake or the first flower of spring as it fights against the bitter cold of winter and all the myriad of things that every sighted person took for granted.
Leaning his head back on the edge of the copper tub Dane closed his eyes wanting to get an understanding of what it was like but he had to scoff. Even then he could see hints of light from the fire blazing in the hearth, Charity wouldn’t even have that.
Knowing he shouldn’t ask, she probably heard the questions all the time, but he needed to know, needed to understand.
“Charity how did you lose your eyesight?”
He thought when she didn’t answer him after a few minutes that perhaps she hadn’t heard and had decided to let the matter drop but then when she did speak he had to strain to hear her softly spoken words.
“I have never spoken of it with anyone and especially Violet. You must promise me that you will never breathe a word of this to her.”
“I promise it will be just between you and I.” Dane was pleased that they would share something that was just theirs alone. It was silly but that small thing meant so much.
“I was seventeen and giddy with excitement for my coming out. My gowns were purchased and accessories decided upon, I even knew which gentleman I wanted to dance with and which friends I would seek out as soon as I arrived.” She paused here as if she was looking back in time and remembering how she felt.
“That afternoon just as I was going to go upstairs to begin preparing for the evening my Uncle Agustus called me into his study. He told me to close the door behind me. I didn’t want to because since my aunt had died Uncle Agustus...well he wasn’t the same.”
“I remember Violet telling me her father changed after losing his wife.”
“Hummm. Yes it’s sad how losing the one you love the most can do that.” She sounded sad and he supposed she was thinking of how Violent lost both parents that day.
“Please continue,” Dane coaxed while he lathered his arms and chest.
“I closed the door like he asked me to even though I was somewhat frightened of him. He had never hurt me before and I had no reason to think he would then, but for sometime uncle had treated me differently...looked at me in a peculiar way that made me uncomfortable.”
Dane sat straight up in the tub not liking where her story was going, his heart started to pound in his chest.
“He asked me if I was excited about my coming out and other things that I don’t remember and it seemed as if he truly cared that I have a successful evening but then he apologized for what he was about to tell me. I couldn’t imagine what he was about to say so I asked him to explain. He got out of his chair, he had this big wooden desk he always sat behind, and he told me that I would not be attending the ball after all. Of course I was devastated and demanded to know the reason why.”
Again she paused and Dane could see her shoulders rise and fall as if she was struggling for breath. The bath water was getting cold but he could not bring himself to climb out of the tub.
“He told me that he and his old friend Lord Northington had come to an agreement of sorts. Northington was in need of a wife that could provide him an heir in exchange Northington would pay off my uncle’s debts. My uncle sold me to a man old enough to be my grandfather.”
Dane could hear Charity’s shame and disgust in her haunting words and his fingers rubbed the ache that formed in his chest.
“Of course I knew of how unhappy Violet was in her marriage that Uncle had arranged for her and I wanted no part of that for myself. So I refused, to a girl of seven and ten the very thought of being sold to an old man was horrifying. We argued back and forth, shouting at one another, I didn’t care that I was defying the man that had taken me into his home and provided me with everything. He threatened to throw me out with nothing but I was beyond seeing reason and I called him some very awful names.”
Dane’s heart pound against his ribs so hard it was painful, he found it hard to breath and his mouth and throat had gone dry. His mind screamed for her to stop, he didn’t want to hear the end of her story but he knew that she had to tell it, that it would be cruel to make her stop.
“I don’t know how we ended up standing before the stone fireplace but that is where we were, standing face to face when he lost control of his anger and he grabbed me and before I could do anything to stop him he slammed my head on the front of the mantle. I’m not sure why I remember this but I remember him doing it twice before I blacked out.”
Dane felt a venereal roar explode inside him as he surged to his feet uncaring that the water sloshed over the edge of the tub pooling on the floor. Stepping out he grabbed the nearest linen and wrapped it around his waist as he stormed over to the bed where Charity sat. He battled the rage inside him and was glad Agustus Baker was no longer of this world because if he were Dane was sure he would hunt the man down and put him in his grave. As well as Nottington, if he were the same man that he knew. Nottington was an ancient with a reputation of vile treatment of his servants and sexually sadistic behavior toward the five wives that had beaten him to the grave.
Charity may have lost her eyesight because of what happened but she didn’t know how fortunate she really was in not having to marry a man that was suspected but never been proven of killing at least two of his wives. Two of the others deaths were questionable and one was said to have taken her own life because she could not stand the shame of the things her husband made her do. At one time there had been whispers that Lord Nottington was so desperate for an heir that he shared his young wife with all his friends in the hope that at least one would impregnate her and that was the reason she hung herself.
Dane felt sick to think that Charity’s uncle was willing to hand his young innocent niece over to a man like that and though the results of their argument were horrific at least she didn’t have to suffer at the hands of that man. He didn’t know what she had suffered while in Bedlam, he only hoped it was not as bad as what she would have had she married Nottington.