A Duchess Enraged (22 page)

"You're terribly
flushed, Louisa. Are you ill?"

Louisa shook her head
quickly. "I'm merely excited to see you, Adam. You know you have all my
devotion."

Adam stirred
uneasily. He was uncomfortably aware of the way she had built her life around
him, depending on him for everything from entertainment to money. Once that had
seemed charming, but now it seemed cloying. Had she no interests of her own, no
pursuits that amused her in his absence? He realized that he had no idea of
what she thought of or did when she wasn't with him.

Louisa wrinkled her
nose as she watched the far-away look in Adam's eyes. It was time to bring her
lover to his senses. He had done enough brooding over his silly wife. She sat
down on the settee and patted the place next to her.

"Come sit down,
darling, and tell me what's bothering you. You didn't find your wife in another
compromising situation, did you?"

Adam grimaced and sat
down next to her, though he immediately regretted it when her delicate hands
wrapped around his arm. Her lilac scent seemed overwhelming, and when he gazed
down into her violet eyes an unbidden wish that they were a clear cornflower
blue shot through his mind. Allegra was like a poison that had no antidote, he
thought bitterly. He had to exorcise her from his system if he wished to live
his life comfortably.

"No, I didn't.
As a matter of fact, she swears she went home alone last night, and it is I who
betrayed her. The woman is insane!"

Louisa sighed.
"She's merely attempting to keep her position," she murmured
soothingly as she peered over Adam's shoulder at the curtains. "After all,
being the Duchess of Gravesmere is no mean thing."

Adam surprised her by
laughing. "Allegra is many things, some of them very unpleasant, but she
doesn't give a fig about being a duchess," he said. "Her own name is
as respectable as my own. Why she'd want to sully both of them, I'll never
know."

"Doubtless she
thinks that her family and your pride will protect her. No man wants to admit
his wife is a wanton. But some women, you know, are so enamored of...of carnal
delights that they have no control. Perhaps your poor bride is that sort of
woman, and unable to restrain her desires. 'Tis a pity that you slept with her
at Gravesmere. Perhaps this whole unpleasant sequence of events would never
have happened if she hadn't learned of the delights of the flesh."

Adam turned his head
and looked down at her, his attention suddenly caught. A flicker of suspicion
flared deep in his eyes. "I never told you that I slept with Allegra. How
did you know that?"

Louisa gaped up at
him, her mind racing. She had learned that piece of information from Allegra,
but Adam must never know that she had spoken to his wife. She gathered herself
together quickly.

"To be sure, you
told me last night, darling. Don't you remember? I knew you were a trifle
drunk, but you were more than capable of entertaining me and I hadn't thought
you would become forgetful. You told me that I was much more enjoyable in bed,
as I've so much experience in pleasuring you." She smiled up at him
limpidly, hoping that he had consumed enough brandy the night before that his
memory was indeed cloudy.

Adam considered her
thoughtfully. He remembered no such comment, and he couldn't imagine saying
such a thing, for it would be a lie. The thought of Allegra's openness and
ecstatic enjoyment when he made love to her made him immediately ache for her.
Louisa's practiced responses seemed dull in comparison now. But he had consumed
far too much liquor the night before, and Louisa had been tiresomely talkative
during their love making bouts. Perhaps he had said something simply to make
her content. He shrugged.

"It doesn't
matter. Unfortunately, you're probably right. Allegra seems to have taken to
the joys of the marital bed like a duck to water. She appears to have no
restraint whatsoever."

Louisa made a
sympathetic sound. "Some women simply have no control, which is a terrible
thing. I don't understand how they can spread their favors about so generously.
We women should show respect to men, for they are surely our masters.
Especially a woman who has you for a lover, Adam. I can't imagine needing
anyone but you." She looked up at him wistfully, her lips curving into a
sweet smile. She looked nervously again over his shoulder at the alcove where
Tristan hid and was appalled to see the curtains were swaying gently, as though
her unwelcome visitor had been seized by a fit of laughter.

"Indeed."
Adam frowned. Louisa's words, while unpleasant, struck a nerve. Allegra,
despite her beauty and devastating sensuality, clearly had a desperate flaw in
her character, one he couldn't accept without losing his dignity. It was
imperative that he put her out of his mind and his life. And what better way to
show Allegra that he didn't need her than to make it plain that Louisa had all
his trust and affection? Perhaps his indifference would lead her to become
careless, and then he would have the evidence he needed to divorce her and rid
himself forever of her tantalizing, torturing presence.

"I must end this
farce of a marriage as soon as possible," he announced. "The
situation is intolerable. I will make sure that my wife is watched every
minute, and that her indiscretions are noted. I'm sure that she will provide me
with ample evidence for divorce."

"Will you
separate then?" asked Louisa. "You said something about going to your
hunting box. I'd be glad to accompany you." The thought of the country in
the spring, when London was bustling with parties and entertainments, made her
cringe, but if the duchess knew she was with her husband, it would doubtless
make her even more likely to commit some folly.

Adam shook his head.
"My sister pointed out that such an action would only cause further talk,
something we can surely do without. I'll continue to share a house with her, as
much as I dislike the idea."

Louisa raised her
eyebrows. Perhaps Tristan was right and Lady Eskmaine had more influence than
she had believed possible. If so, it was time to press forward and try to
conclude this matter as speedily as possible. "How clever of you, Adam. I
will keep my eyes and ears open as well and will tell you if I hear of any
information that might be useful. I believe your wife favors Lord Gresham, does
she not?"

Louisa was startled
by the icy mask of anger that descended over Adam's face. She had always
thought of him as a boy who could be bent to her wishes, but now she could
sense the steel in him, and it alarmed her. He had changed since they had
returned to England from an irresponsible youth to a man who showed signs of
alarming independence. She had best get him safely divorced and remarried
before much more time passed.

"I believe that
she has some fondness for him, though I confess I cannot see why,"
answered Adam. "He's a rake and a scoundrel."

"Two things that
are very attractive to a young woman," purred Louisa. "But your wife
must be very blind, to prefer him to you."

Adam snorted. The
mention of Gresham's name had aroused a white-hot fury in him, conjuring the
sight of Allegra cradled in his rival's arms the evening before. If Allegra
could be seen publicly with her paramour, then so could he.

"Would you care
to go riding in the park this afternoon, Louisa?"

Louisa's long
eyelashes fluttered, and her cherry-red lips parted in delighted surprise.
"Surely you don't mean that we...that you will go with me in public?"

"Of course. The
world must get used to the idea of you being at my side. It is where you
belong." Adam stood up and looked down at Louisa. She was very beautiful,
he told himself, and had his best interests at heart. Hadn't she stood by him,
returning with him to England when all he could offer her was a life as his
mistress? He was far better off with her than with Allegra, who had no moral
compass at all. He could trust Louisa not to betray him. He would rekindle his
feelings for Louisa, and forget Allegra and her devastating charm.

"Thank you, Adam!
You are too wonderful! You've made me so happy!" Louisa leapt to her feet
and threw herself into his arms, raising her lips for a kiss. Adam, alarmed
rather than aroused by her excitement, pressed his to them perfunctorily, and
then held her at arm's length.

"Take your
carriage to the park at 3:00 this afternoon," Adam instructed. He knew
that was when Allegra usually drove in the park, and he was determined that she
realize she had no hold over him. "I'll meet you there."

"Thank you,
Adam! This will be so delightful!" Louisa clasped her hands and beamed as
though she had been presented with a diamond necklace.

Adam shifted
uneasily. Louisa's manner was wearing on him. "I should be on my way. I'll
see you later today."

"If you would
care to stay a little while, we could go to my bedroom," whispered Louisa,
her voice full of promise. She brushed up against him seductively. "I can
never get enough of you, Adam dear. Or we could stay here; the settee is very
comfortable, as I’m sure you’ll remember.” The thought of making love to Adam
while Gresham lurked behind the curtain made her damp with excitement.

"I'm sorry, but
I've an appointment," said Adam uncomfortably. He felt no desire for
Louisa at all, a fact that alarmed him. "We'll have time for that later."

"All
night," murmured Louisa. "And many, many nights to come. I'm so happy
you've come to a decision about your wife."

"As am I. Until
later, Louisa." Adam raised her hand formally to his lips and left the
room, wondering why he felt so miserable. His course was set, and surely it was
the right one.

A Most Unholy
Alliance

Louisa glared at the
door as it closed behind Adam, her hands on her hips. He had said all the
things she wanted him to, but it was apparent that he still harbored tender
feelings towards his wife. And his desire for her had clearly waned, despite
her best efforts the night before. She pursed her lips, considering her next
move. Tristan was right. She needed an ally.

She heard the sound
of chuckling behind her, and turned to see Tristan had emerged from his hiding
place. He bowed mockingly, and then strolled towards her, placing one long finger
under her chin.

"Well done, my
dear. How very skilled you are at playing the ingénue. I didn't suspect the
depths of your acting talent. If all else fails, you can always go on the
stage."

"Don't be
hateful, Tristan." Louisa tossed her head and backed away from him.
"I see that you are right, and that there are forces lined up against us.
We had best move speedily if we want to accomplish our aims."

"And if you want
to hold onto Gravesmere." Tristan grinned unpleasantly. "Your hold is
slipping, my dear. Even I could sense that."

"Nonsense. It's
only because he is temporarily enamored of his wife. That will pass soon
enough. Believe me, I can lure him back at any time."

Tristan shrugged.
"He'll come back to you because he wants to make his bride jealous. That's
enough for me. I don't care what his motivations are, so long as they don't
reconcile. I need Allegra to be furious with him so that she will turn to
me."

"Are you
admitting that your charms aren't enough to attract a woman?" taunted
Louisa. "I thought you were irresistible."

"I'm nothing if
not a realist, Louisa. Self-delusion makes you weak. The duchess loves her
husband, whether she knows it or not. And she's a strong woman, with a sense of
what is right and wrong. No, my mere charms aren't enough in this case. Believe
me, that knowledge won't destroy my pleasure in the outcome."

"You're
despicable."

"At least my
motivations are pure. I want revenge for past wrongs, Louisa. You, on the other
hand, are seeking to destroy a young couple's affection for mere gain. There is
some poetry to my actions, but to yours--none at all."

Louisa snorted.
"Don't try to imply that your aims are nobler than mine. You want the
little duchess in your bed for your own pleasure and to humiliate Gravesmere.
Hardly the actions of a gentleman."

"Ah, but I never
claimed to be a gentleman. Just as you will never be a lady, no matter how high
a title you might gain. We are adventurers, Louisa, and will never be
respectable."

"Speak for
yourself. When I am Duchess of Gravesmere my past will be forgotten."

"Not by
me." Tristan's long fingers wrapped around her wrist and squeezed lightly.
"Don't forget that. We might be allies now, but you must never forget that
I own you, Louisa. Be very careful."

Louisa shivered. She
knew she was entering into a pact with the devil. Tristan couldn't be trusted
not to betray her. But as long as he needed her, she was safe. This alliance
would give her time to find his weaknesses, to safeguard her gains.

"I will,"
she promised, her eyes downcast.

"What, so
demoralized?" Tristan raised her chin with one finger. "Don't think
you're fooling me, Louisa. I know how duplicitous you can be. Don't think that
you'll come out ahead of me in this."

Louisa's eyes flashed
angrily. "Go to hell, Tristan."

"Ah, that's the
Louisa I know. You may put on an act with Gravesmere, but I know the real you.
It won't be a pretty alliance, my dear, but it might be very effective. I
suggest you spend as much time with your lover as possible, and make sure that
Allegra knows about it. This drive in the park today will be an excellent
start. I'll make sure that all the right people witness it."

Louisa nodded, her
eyes alight with annoyance. "I'll rub her proud little nose in it. That
little brat thinks she has me beaten, but she'll soon learn what defeat truly
is. She deems me lower than the dirt beneath her slippers, but soon she'll be
the scandalous woman and I'll be the duchess." A dreamy smile spread
across her face.

Gresham laughed.
"You're never more beautiful than when you're contemplating doing someone
a bad turn, Louisa." His hand slid up her arm, stroking persuasively.
"I find you quite irresistible."

Louisa tried to draw
away, but Tristan's hold tightened. "What about the interfering Lady
Eskmaine?" she asked, trying to ignore the seductive play of his hand
across her skin.

"She doesn't
know about our past, and I'd prefer that she not do so. You stay away from her,
Louisa, and concentrate on causing mischief with Allegra. I'll take care of
Lady Eskmaine. As a matter of fact, I'm rather looking forward to it."

"You're
interested in the sister as well as the wife? Really, Tristan. How
sordid."

Tristan's wicked
smile widened. "Oh, I imagine the sister is rather too upright, not to
mention strong minded, to be enticed, though I admit I'd enjoy the challenge.
I'll save her for another day, perhaps. Think how furious Gravesmere would be.
In the meantime, watch your step, Louisa. Be very careful." He raised his
other hand to her face and traced the line of her jaw gently with one finger.

"And do you
think this is being careful?" asked Louisa, her voice catching as his hand
slid down to her neck, caressing and teasing as it moved.

"Gravesmere is
gone, and he won't be back this morning. Who is there to see us, Louisa? You
offered him some entertainment--what about me? Am I such a poor
substitute?" Tristan's voice was soothing and seductive.

"I
shouldn't," whispered Louisa. "I have to meet Adam soon."

"There's plenty
of time," answered Tristan, as his hand trailed down her chest to push
aside the fichu arranged across the low bodice of her gown, and dipped inside
to cup a breast. "You could have me this afternoon, and then your drive
with Gravesmere, and then him all night. Think how satisfied you'll be. I know
about your appetites, my love. When you talk of Allegra's supposed lack of
restraint, I know you speak from experience."

Louisa sighed, as he
caressed her breast, and then moaned as he rolled her nipple between his
fingers, pinching gently, while his other hand squeezed her behind.

He pulled his hand
out of her bodice, and pushed her to her knees, then shoved her sleeves down
her shoulders, untied and slightly loosened the laces in the back of her gown
and sought her needy breasts in her gaping dress with both hands.

Louisa fumbled at his
buttons, opening his breeches hastily and pulled out his rampant penis,
grasping it in her hands and opening her mouth to circle its swollen head with
her tongue. Tristan groaned, and pulled on her nipples; he could see them dark
and long inside her sagging gown, and stroked her lush orbs.

Louisa sucked deeply
on him, trembling from his attentions to her sensitive breasts. She licked and
sucked, first gently, then more firmly, cupping his testicles in her hands, and
massaging the sensitive spot just behind with an experienced finger. She
pressed her thighs together as the gathering need, which grew more and more
demanding as Tristan rolled and pinched her tender nipples, swelled, seeking
release. Louisa stroked him up and down with her tongue, and then opened her
mouth even wider to take all of him. As she did, Tristan groaned, and pulled
away from her, to spill himself on her chest.

He gasped for a
second or two with the pleasure of release, then, with a casual air, he began
to close and rebutton his breeches, while Louisa trembled with unfulfilled
desire on her knees.

“Do you think to
leave me unsatisfied, you oaf?” she snapped.

Tristan looked down
into her passion-hazed eyes and chuckled. "Unfortunately, it can't
be," he announced, his voice suddenly brisk. He grasped her shoulders and
helped her to her feet. "We don't have time for more of this dalliance,
Louisa. There's too much to be done."

"Damn you,
Tristan," snapped Louisa, raising her hand to slap him. "That is
cruel."

Tristan caught her
arm, twisting it behind her slightly, and held it. "Just a little
demonstration of who is in control here. As long as you're a slave to your
passions, my dear, you'll never get the better of me."

"Get out of
here," said Louisa, her voice shaking with fury.

"With pleasure.
Until later, my love."

Tristan bowed
mockingly and swept out of the room, leaving Louisa standing in the middle of
the room, still trembling with unsatisfied arousal. She swore unpleasantly and
rang the bell for the footman. She would get even, she thought as she sat down
on the edge of the settee to wait for his arrival. Tristan would pay for this
insult.

Three hours later
Louisa left her house in the carriage Adam had so thoughtfully provided for her
when he had rented the house in Half Moon Street. It was the latest fashion and
very expensive, as was the elegant dress she wore. Louisa paused a moment to
enjoy the luxury of her surroundings. She had been through difficult times
during the years since her husband's death, but now everything she had was very
fine, and her prospects were rosy. Soon, very soon, all she had ever wanted
would be in her grasp. A satisfied smile decorated her face as her coachman
turned the corner into the park.

She looked about as
the glittering throng of the ton milled around her. Some of the bluest blood in
the land was gathered in the park that afternoon, and the ladies and gentlemen,
all dressed in the finest materials and the latest fashions, strolled and rode
and drove about, chatting and gossiping, exchanging whispered secrets and
admiring glances, visiting and plotting and flirting. It was a world closed to
Louisa by the nature of her birth and scandalous past, and when an occasional
glance fell on her it was always hurriedly averted. The lovely Lady Manning was
not acceptable. It was said regretfully at times by the gentlemen, who found
her enticing, but it was a fact. Her only entrance to this world was through
Adam, and being his mistress was not enough for her. She would be the Duchess
of Gravesmere, she told herself as she drove along, her chin lifted proudly,
her smile hiding her seething jealousy. Then everyone would have to acknowledge
her, to admit that she was their equal.

Louisa was pulled out
of her reverie by the slowing of the carriage. She looked to see that Adam
stood by the side of the track awaiting her. He swung easily up into the
carriage as soon as it was halted, and she paused a moment to admire him. He
was really very handsome, she thought as she watched him arrange his long limbs
on the seat across from her. His golden hair glowed in the sunlight and even
the slight look of annoyance on his face couldn't hide its breathtaking beauty.
She was very lucky to have a found a man who was both rich and attractive. It
was a pity that he seemed to be fighting against her hold, that he had realized
that his need for her had never been more than physical, that his wife had
proved to be so attractive to him. If she had known from the beginning that he
liked the unpredictable type, she would have obliged him. But she only needed
to keep up the illusion a little while longer. And she knew that as long as she
could keep him convinced that Allegra was in the wrong, he wouldn't turn to his
wife. Adam's sense of honor was strong, and his pride wouldn't allow him to go
to a woman he believed to be unfaithful. In that respect she had the upper hand
over her rival. Adam thought her loving and faithful, and she would make sure
he never doubted it. Now that Tristan was working with her, she could feel more
secure. That door to her past had been closed, as least for a time.

"Good afternoon,
Adam," she said cheerfully. "Come, sit next to me. There's no need to
be so distant." She pulled the delicate skirt of her pink and tan
afternoon dress aside to make room for him on the seat beside her.

Adam frowned, but
then obliged her. He had made certain that Allegra was driving in the park that
afternoon, and if he wished to make it plain to her that she no longer had a
hold over him, this was the best way to do it. She would see that he valued
Louisa for her loyalty to him. Hadn't she remained true to him all these
months, even when she knew he was already married?

Louisa linked her arm
through his and rested her dark head briefly on his shoulder. "I'm so
happy, Adam," she cooed. "It brings back such memories of our time in
Paris. Soon we can be together all the time. Won't it be wonderful?"

Adam sighed.
"Wonderful," he echoed. He wondered vaguely if there was a way to rid
himself of Louisa as well as Allegra. After all, just because he would soon be
divorced from his wife didn't mean he had to immediately saddle himself with
another. He could give Louisa a large sum of money and buy her a house. She was
beautiful; she would easily find herself another husband. But then he looked
down into her adoring eyes and his heart sank. She loved him so very much, he
thought sadly. Was it fair to break her heart after all the trust she had
placed in him?