The Appeal of an Elusive Viscount Read online

  “Oh, yes,” Lady Torrington exclaimed. “Son, why don’t you tell them?”

  He stood and went to the fireplace where her father, the duke and Todd, her cousin who’d arrived earlier, were standing.

  “Sir, I’d like to request the hand of your daughter in marriage...” he continued, but the loud drumming in her ears prevented Clara from hearing more. It did affect her, more than she expected. It was so selfish, but she wanted him for herself. Vivian deserved to marry well and she hoped not to show her disappointment. However, by the way her chest constricted, it would be impossible to make it through the meal.

  * * *

  When everyone looked to her, she jumped to her feet. “I think I’ll see if...I forgot something. Please excuse me.” She hurried out of the room. Obviously, the family wanted to discuss things with Vivian.

  “May I bother you to show me your father’s winter roses?” William asked as he caught up with her. In shock, she looked past him to the others in the room.

  Lady Torrington was smiling while her mother seemed more confused than anything, her eyebrows lowered in a slight scowl.

  Gerard provided her cloak and his overcoat and she led him through a side door to a patio.

  The last thing she wanted to do was walk outside with Vivian’s fiancé. Why in the world was he walking with her? She hurried to the side doors, pulled them open and motioned with both arms. “There they are. Now, if you’ll excuse me.”

  “What is the matter with you?” he snapped. “A simple yes or no would be sufficient.”

  Clara looked up at him. He was so very handsome. Even the dark scowl did little to distract; if anything, it added to his appeal. The black clothes suited him so well. Her dark prince. No, he wasn’t hers. “Yes or no what?”

  “You didn’t hear what I said in the parlor, did you?”

  Unable to keep from it, she rolled her eyes. “You asked for Vivian’s hand in marriage. I understand. She is beautiful, kind and will be a perfect wife. The kiss shouldn’t matter.” Clara looked past him toward the parlor.

  “We’ll keep that a secret and not tell a soul. Besides...”

  His mouth covered hers and he walked her backward, outside, where no one would see them unless they were walking by.

  When his large hands circled her waist and William pulled her against him, Clara was defenseless. All thought left her. The impropriety of kissing her sister’s new fiancé was the only thing that finally penetrated her fogged mind. She pushed away, or tried to anyway, but the warmth of his embrace, the feel of his hard body against hers and the fact her legs could not possibly keep her upright kept her from moving.

  The kiss was urgent and not gentle in the least. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders, needing more. When he slipped his tongue past her lips, a moan sounded and Clara realized she was the one who made the sound.

  “Augh!” She finally managed to shove him away, although he was much too strong and his arms remained around her.

  “Yes or no?” he repeated.

  “You shouldn’t be kissing me. My parents will throw you out. Even if you are a duke’s son.”

  “Clara Elizabeth Humphries, will you marry me?”

  “What?” she gasped. “What about Vivian?”

  He closed his eyes and a rare upturn of the corners of his lips made Clara blink in disbelief. “I asked for your hand in marriage, not Vivian’s.”

  “Oh.”

  Clara lowered her shoulders and, this time, firmly pushed him back. “It’s most inappropriate to stand with our arms around each other. Someone might see us.” She pressed her lips together to keep from grinning. “Yes, William Torrington, I will marry you.”

  When they reentered the parlor, William’s hand on her elbow, everyone looked at them with expectation.

  Clara’s first instinct was to look at Vivian. She was smiling broadly. With a breath of relief, she looked up at William.

  He had the stance of a man that gave no doubt as to his standing as a member of elite society. Even if, according to everyone, he spent most of his time at a country estate, William fit into the role of viscount well.

  “Clara has accepted my proposal. She will marry me.”

  Her mother jumped to her feet and dashed to them, her eyes shining with unshed tears. “Goodness, this is so unexpected. I am so very pleased.”

  Champagne was brought and served and everyone toasted to the upcoming nuptials. The entire time, Clara wondered why everything was happening so quickly.

  The answer to that question would not be pleasing in the least.

  Chapter Seven

  William had to admit that the dinner the night before had gone splendidly well. As always, Clara had been entertaining. Once the idea of the proposal had sunk in, she’d been asking questions all evening to both him and his mother.

  As he’d expected, his mother had declared her delightful. His father had approved of the match, affirming she’d be a perfect match for his somber personality.

  Although Clara’s father had been a bit reserved about the proposal, he’d come around during after-dinner drinks. Rightfully so, Albert Humphries was fiercely protective of his daughters and wanted to ensure Clara would be well cared for. He’d seemed mollified when William told him in private, he’d allow Clara to remain in the London townhouse with every expense left to her discretion.

  Now in his bedroom, he paced, considering how much longer he’d be forced to remain in the city. After one or two social events where the engagement would be made public and several perfunctory dinners, he hoped to be able to return to Berkhamsted.

  If all went well, he’d be home right after the Christmas holiday.

  Outside, the moonlight was bright on the newly-fallen snow, giving it the illusion of being blue. The different tones made for a serene scene. If he were gifted in art, this would definitely be a scene he’d like to capture.

  Just a few weeks, perhaps three, and his wish would come true. A solitary life in the country and a wife and children in the city that would make his parents happy were all he wished for.

  * * *

  The next day after breakfast and being asked tons of questions by his mother, William was glad to escape with his hounds. He walked them down the street toward Hyde Park where he’d release them for a bit. The excited dogs tugged on the leashes ensuring they’d keep a fast pace.

  Most of the snow had melted and just enough sun peaked through the clouds to make the weather pleasant. There were quite a few people about. On the corner was a man selling roasted chestnuts, his young daughter offering the bundles to passersby.

  Not too far ahead was a group of boys playing a game of chase, running in circles and shouting.

  It was best to take the dogs away from that area, William decided, as they’d no doubt want to join in the game.

  “William,” a woman called out. He turned to see her, Rachel Witting, walking toward him, a maid in tow.

  Her face was framed with the hood of a fur-lined cape. One would consider Rachel a beauty if not for the harshness of her flattened lips and narrowed eyes. She’d been his lover years back and had not taken his lack of a marriage proposal well. It was one of the many reasons he’d avoided London for the last couple of seasons.

  “Rachel.” He touched the brim of his hat and attempted to control the dogs that were not pleased at him standing for so long.

  Her narrowed gaze assessed him from head to toe before sliding a glance to the hounds. “Am I to presume you did not receive my message?”

  She went straight to the matter at hand as was her custom. William wondered how and why he’d ever ended up in the woman’s bed. It had been her who’d contrived the assignations and he the dumb one who’d not seen through her ploy.

  “I did and I am flattered that you wish to continue to see me. However, I am not in a position to accept your alluring proposition.”

  Her eyebrows shot up and disappeared behind the edge of her hood. “Why is that?”

  An annou
ncement of the engagement was to be made at a gathering that evening. His mother and Clara’s would be most displeased if the news was out before then. However, he saw no other way to get rid of Rachel.

  “I am just recently engaged.”

  The rounding of Rachel’s eyes followed the soft gasp. “Is that so? To whom?”

  “It will be announced at the Burlingtons’ soiree tonight. I cannot possibly divulge any particulars before then. My fiancée and my mother would be most displeased.”

  Her face became rigid, the features hard until it seemed like a mask. “I will be there and so help you, if you are lying...”

  “Don’t ever threaten me,” William spoke through clenched teeth. “How long until you accept that you and I have no future? I will not marry you ever. I wish for children and so do my parents.”

  She let out a breath. “You have no idea how powerful I am. If I wish to ruin your chances at marriage to some young chit, I can do so easily.” She snapped her fingers. “Just like that.”

  “You need to find another man. One that is afraid of your threats. I, for one, find them boring. It doesn’t matter what you do. You and I will never be together again.”

  “We’ll see,” Rachel snapped and whirled on her heel. The maid gave him an apologetic look before hurrying after her mistress.

  It could prove to be a bother if Rachel decided to make some sort of scene at the event that night. As he continued on his walk, William pondered what to do about her threats. Clara was witty and able to defend herself in a war of words. Of that, he had no doubts. However, she was young still and surely not seasoned enough to withstand any kind of attack by a woman like Rachel.

  * * *

  Evening came too soon and William found he still had no idea how to deal with the situation. Hopefully, Rachel had just been upset by his announcement and her threats had no substance. If anything came up, he’d have to handle it on the spot.

  “There you are, darling,” his mother said, entering the room. The deep purple gown suited her perfectly. Although he’d inherited his father’s solemn disposition and height, William looked more like his mother.

  She rounded him and looked over his attire. “Must you always wear such dark colors? Honestly, William, it’s not only a festive season because of the holiday, but you’ve also just gotten engaged. Perhaps a lighter cravat and not black?”

  Black suited him. He didn’t have to decide what color went with what. However, his mother was right. “I only have black ones.”

  His mother frowned and William let out a sigh. “I will borrow one of father’s then.”

  When they left the house, two carriages were prepared and waiting. In one, his parents were to head straight to the ball. In the second, he and Alexander would go to the Humphries’ home so he and Clara could enter together.

  * * *

  Clara was resplendent in a light blue ball gown. The flush across her cheeks suited her, making her pretty eyes stand out. Her plump lips, which constantly enticed him to want to kiss her, were bright pink.

  She, along with Vivian, curtsied as he and Alexander stood by waiting to see who would come with them in the carriage. Penelope, the youngest sister, emerged. Behind her were the Humphries and, lastly, an older woman, who he assumed would be the chaperone.

  The woman was introduced as Clara’s Aunt Helen. The austere woman barely curtsied, seeming to find fault with both William and Alexander. “I require assistance to climb into your carriage. It seems higher than it needs to be,” the woman proclaimed as the coachman hurried to help her.

  “Aunt Helen is quite talented,” Clara whispered. “She can find fault in everything, no matter how minute. It’s astonishing really.”

  “Noted,” William replied, holding out his arm.

  Once they were seated, the sisters on either side of Aunt Helen and he and Alexander facing them, the carriage continued its trip to the ball.

  Every ballroom became hot and airless soon after events commenced. This evening, however, the air seemed to have left as soon as Clara and William entered. The conversations in the room dimmed as every guest turned to look when they crossed the threshold into the room. She almost dropped her hand from his arm if not for his firm hand over it.

  “Take a deep breath and smile,” William said, not looking to her, his face serene.

  Clara’s breath hitched when she attempted the first time. However, the second try worked.

  The steadiness of William’s arm and his assuredness helped Clara maintain her composure. Although looks of disbelief made her want to run from the room, she kept a serene smile. When women looked at William with admiration, she had to fight the urge to gloat. It would definitely be unbecoming to stick out her tongue at the jealous ones.

  “How delightful that you and your parents came to my small gala,” Lady Burlington exclaimed. Her shrewd gaze moved quickly over to Clara. “And you as well, of course, Clara. Why, it’s been over a year since I’ve seen you.”

  The woman was not particularly nice, which was why Clara and her family rarely attended any event held by the Burlingtons. Given to dramatically long-winded descriptions of her travels, once the woman began, it was hard to disengage from the one-sided conversations.

  Of course, William had no way of knowing. So Clara kept a keen ear to make sure to save them in case Lady Burlington decided to talk of her last trip.

  Clara curtsied low. “Lady Burlington, I love your gown. The color is most complementary.”

  “Thank you, dear.” The woman beamed. “I’m sorry, but I can’t say the same. I’d have chosen a different color if I were you.”

  Biting on the inside of her cheek to keep from saying something she’d regret, Clara only nodded. Fortunately, someone else came forward and Lady Burlington excused herself.

  “Why are we here?” William groaned. That made Clara chuckle.

  “Apparently so that I can be told how horrible my dress is.”

  His gaze went from her face to her chest then trailed down from there. Heat filled her in a way that she’d never experienced. “I find the gown quite alluring.”

  Despite knowing he sought to distract her, she blushed at the compliment. When he offered his arm and led her to the dance floor, all was forgotten. For the first time in her life, Clara was the center of attention. The music commenced. While she and William circled, moved apart and came back together along with the other partners, she was aware of every eye on them.

  Although he didn’t smile, his warm gaze kept her grounded. It was as if she floated just above the floor and could barely keep her eyes from William’s face. He, on the other hand, remained composed, turning his attention to whomever he partnered with during the intricate dance.

  “A surprising turn of events,” Randolph Doolittle commented as they circled. “Rather abrupt engagement,” he finished.

  Clara gave him as innocent a look as she could muster. “It seems some men do not dawdle for years before making a declaration.”

  The glare was cut short when Randolph was forced to turn away and join again with his partner.

  The dance ended and William escorted Clara to a side area. “I’ll get you something to drink.”

  Moments later, a couple came over to introduce themselves to William. The man pulled him aside while the woman attempted at conversation with Clara. The awkward woman’s eyes rounded when another woman, one Clara had never met, approached.

  Despite a bit too much rouge on her cheeks and a bit too strong a perfume, the woman seemed to attract the attention of the men who surrounded them.

  The woman who’d been speaking to Clara immediately excused herself and hurried away.

  “I heard the news of your engagement to Viscount Torrington,” the woman who’d approached said. “Congratulations are in order.”

  There was something about this woman Clara didn’t like, but manners took over. “I’m afraid you have me at a disadvantage. I don’t know who you are.”

  “I am Rachel Witting
, your soon-to-be husband’s lover.”

  Clara blinked, not sure she’d heard the woman correctly. “I see.”

  The woman’s eyes hardened at her lack of expression. “It’s best you hear it from me. At least that is what William and I decided earlier today when we spoke.”

  “What am I supposed to say to that?” Clara maintained a neutral expression although her heart threatened to explode from her chest. William had his back turned and continued in conversation with the man who’d approached. They’d been joined by yet another.

  “It’s natural, of course,” the woman continued. “Men need a woman with experience, especially when married to a young innocent such as you. There is no need to fret.”

  At the last comment, Clara lost her temper. Seeming to sense her anger, William turned. His eyes flickered to the woman, Rachel, and rounded, but only for a fleeting second.

  She didn’t need him to approach and save her. Clara was perfectly able to defend herself from the horrid woman. Mustering all her strength, Clara smiled at the woman. Although she kept her attention on Rachel’s face, she was dimly aware William was nearing.

  “I’m not sure why he would tell you I am innocent and inexperienced. Perhaps, he didn’t wish to hurt your feelings being that you’re obviously quite older than me. I’d say older than William as well. Or perhaps, it could be your overabundance of ‘experience’ has aged you.”

  The woman swallowed and was about to say something when William arrived. He stood at Clara’s right and took her elbow. “We must speak about your choice in who you speak to in public, darling.” He whisked her away before Clara could object.

  “I was about to say something clever and you stole the opportunity from me,” she protested.

  “What did she tell you?” Eyebrows furrowed, he studied her. “Tell me.”

  “No, I will not.” Clara jutted her chin out. If he was, indeed, an adulterer and planned to keep a mistress, there was little she could do. However, she needed to find out more about the woman. Perhaps, others knew of any assignation between William and the horrid, face-painted woman.