Dealing With The Duchess: Mayfair Brides, #1

Chapter One

London – 1855

Eleanor, look! It’s him! The Duchess of Bentley heard her sister, Prudence, squeal as they stood to one side of the Countess of Pembroke’s salon. She knew exactly to whom Prudence was referring, even before she scanned the crowded room. She decided it was in her best interest to act unaware, especially at a ball such as the countess’s.

Eleanor had caught a glimpse of him some thirty minutes earlier, felt his disconcerting gaze as he’d watched her laugh and chat with others, watched her waltz with another. She’d felt his stare as she had worked her way around the room, moving graciously from group to group, exchanging pleasantries and comments before returning to her sister’s side. Now, he was directly in her sights.

Please keep your voice down, Prudence. Who are you talking about?

The Duke of Evermont. It’s true. He’s returned, her sister said dreamily.

I almost didn’t recognize him, Eleanor replied, eyeing the tall, broad-shouldered, and bronzed man as he stood in a loose group of his peers, listening attentively to the conversation the Earl of Pembroke seemed to be heading.

He’s been at his family’s sugar plantation for the past few years, putting an overseer in place, Prudence said, a hint of authority in her young voice.

That explains his coloring, then. Eleanor tried not to look too carefully. Her sister was gawking at him as it was. Nor was she going to mention anything about the duke’s muscular build that she noticed he now carried. He had obviously worked in the fields while away.

Prudence caught her gazing at the group. Don’t get any ideas, Eleanor. He’s mine.

Pardon? I didn’t know you were betrothed to the man.

I will be. Papa told me he’s in negotiations with Lord Evermont as we stand here.

In that case, one would think he would be over here asking you to dance. That he should want to know better the woman he’s to marry. He has not said a word to you all evening. Eleanor hesitated. Prudie, don’t believe everything Papa tells you.

Give him time. Can’t you see he’s catching up with old friends? Prudence turned her head toward her sister, giving Eleanor a most contemptible look for someone so young. You have just come out of mourning, Eleanor. Act like it. You’re nothing more than a dowager duchess now. No gentleman wants some man’s widow.

I didn’t know you were so wise to the ways of the world, sister. I can assure you, I may be a widow, but I’m far from dead. Eleanor lifted her skirts and began walking away. She was going to get a better look at this man. After all, it was considered rude to simply stare at him. Besides, their brother Alec was among the group speaking with Evermont and the earl.

Good evening, gentlemen. May I join you for a moment? Eleanor said as she approached.

Yes, of course you may, Evermont replied, eyeing her intently, as he had been from across the room. It’s nice to see you again.

Eleanor couldn’t take her eyes off him, especially after hearing him speak. It’d been years since she’d heard his voice. There was something sensual yet commanding about it. He was putting images in her head that she had not entertained in quite some time.

Alec stepped in. I’m sorry. Where are my manners? You remember my sister, the Duchess of Bentley?

Yes, the Duchess of Bentley. It has been a long time. My condolences on the passing of your husband.

She nodded. Thank you. Her eyes followed as he dipped his head.

My sister is out of mourning now, Alec blurted. He cocked an eyebrow at her, then at the duke, as though he knew there was something else going on.

That is good to know, Evermont replied.

Eleanor nodded. I understand you are just recently returned from your family’s sugar plantation in the Caribbean?

Yes, the overseer my father had managing the place died suddenly. I went to make sure all was running smoothly and put a new man in position.

We’re lucky to have you back, though I fear you’ll be getting invitations from every mother  with an available daughter. Eleanor tried not to look at her sister, who was now eyeing her with a black scowl. It was what Prudence did best—look like a wrinkled prune. She was quite interested in knowing just how single her childhood friend, Cameron Dudley, the Duke of Evermont was.

You’re right. It has started already. Unfortunately, there will be quite a few hearts broken, I’m afraid, at least for a while.

Are you betrothed?

No, not at all. I simply meant that I’m much too engrossed in catching up on current events. Much can happen in two years. I have neither the time nor desire to put myself out on the marriage mart.

I understand. You need time to settle in.

The musicians were starting up again. Some of the men in the group dispersed in search of their wives or dance partners.

May I have the honor of this set, Your Grace?

Yes, you may. Thank you. She smiled at him.

He led her to the dance floor and put one hand on her waist and took her hand in his other. As they whirled around the ballroom, Eleanor forgot there was a party going on around them, her attention riveted to the stunningly handsome man with whom she was dancing.

How does it feel to be back in Society? he inquired as they made their way through the other couples. Some guests slid looks at them, telling Cameron they were already the topic of gossip.

It is hard to judge. I realize, as a widow, I’m expected to act a certain way, but alas, I find I cannot.

He chuckled at her answer. You are far too young to adhere to those standards. I’m glad to see you are going to resist.

My late husband had many business ventures, a few profitable ones he left to me. As we had no children of our own, the dukedom has been left to a cousin of his—Henry Bailey.

Somehow, I don’t foresee overseeing a few businesses being a burden to you.

It’s not. Grayson prepared me well.

He must have been a unique man.

Yes. I know you’re aware that our marriage was arranged and that my late husband was quite a bit older than I. We got along famously. We became close friends, more than husband and wife, though I’d never let my father know that.

Your secret is safe with me.

Thank you. And you? Any smoldering embers you haven’t tended to since you’ve returned?

I can assure you, there are none. As I mentioned earlier, I am still trying to settle in after being gone two years.

That is perfectly understandable.

It’s quite refreshing to speak with a woman who understands these things.

A word of caution, Your Grace.

Please, address me as Cameron, at least in private. We’ve known each other far too long for formalities.

Beware that my father has already told my younger sister he’s in negotiations with you about a betrothal to her. I only mention it after what he did to me. He’s putting ideas into Prudence’s head.

I can assure you that he has not approached me. I’ve not even seen him since I’ve returned.

I didn’t think you would have.

Does he still have a problem with the cards and the horses?

Eleanor nodded. Yes. Grayson tried to help him out several times, monetarily. It never lasted. Grayson would pay his debts, and my father would find yet another gaming hell that would take him.

I’m sorry to hear that, for your family’s sake.

Thank you. It doesn’t affect me as it does my siblings, my brother Alec in particular. And, of course, my mother. I’m afraid if he doesn’t quit, he’ll lose everything he has. He’ll have nothing but his title and entailed properties left if he keeps going.

The music ended too soon. Eleanor had forgotten what it was like to engage in conversation with someone as learned as Cameron. Her life for several years had consisted of attending her sick husband, the Duke of Bentley. Outside of servants and the doctor, Eleanor had little interaction with the outside world.

Thank you, Cameron. You made my first official evening out of mourning one to remember.

You are most welcome. He looked around the room. The musicians were starting the next number. If you’re not up to another dance, could I interest you in a glass of punch?

Yes, that would be nice. Thank you.

Wait right here. I’ll return in a moment.

Eleanor watched him walk off. She also noticed her sister and mother standing together, studying them. She took her fan from her wrist and began to use it slowly as she observed the crowded ballroom and all the dancers. She smiled at some of the couples she knew as they went swirling by.

Mary Elliott neared with her husband Edward, the Earl of Dunlap, in tow. Mary’s family lived on the estate that backed up to her father’s in Somerset. They’d spent time as girls riding their horses together, doing daring things that would probably cause their mothers to faint if they knew.

Eleanor, it’s so nice to see you out, Mary exclaimed as they embraced. Although she was a tall, thin woman with mousy blonde hair, her gown and jewels made one quickly forget what a plain woman she was.

I wrote you and mentioned I would probably be attending the countess’s ball. Eleanor strained to look off in the direction Cameron had gone, but sadly didn’t see him.

I know, but I wasn’t sure if you were truly ready. You look very nice, very rested. Are you staying at your family’s home here?

No, I’m staying at my own place. I thought since my mother, Prudie, and Alec were attending, I should as well.

If you’re residing in London for a while, you must come have dinner with us.

Yes, the earl spoke up. It has been far too long, Your Grace. He combed his fingers through his fashionably long dark hair and narrowed striking hazel eyes at her as he nodded.

I would love to, she replied politely and smiled as she saw Cameron returning, a glass of punch in each hand.

Here you go, he said quietly, nodding at Edward and Mary.

May I present my good friend Lady Mary Elliott and her husband, Lord Edward Elliott, the Earl of Dunlap, Eleanor said graciously. You remember the Duke of Evermont, don’t you, Mary?

Mary curtsied. Yes, but it has been a long time I’m afraid.

I believe the last time I recall seeing you, Countess, I was in my last year at Eaton. It has been a while.

Eleanor thought she saw the earl’s brow cock in interest at the mention of Cameron’s university. She knew the earl, though he had an excellent education, had never been able to pass the entrance exams for Eaton. At least that was what she’d heard.

I believe you are right.

Suddenly, Mary’s husband took her by the elbow to lead her away. I must apologize. Mary has been unusually tired the past few weeks. We’ve been quite busy with out-of-town guests. If you’ll excuse us, I believe we’re going to make an early evening of it.

Certainly, Eleanor replied. Let me know when you’re feeling better, Mary. We’ll visit then.

Mary bussed her cheek and whispered, I think I may be with child, but Edward won’t let me tell anyone yet.

Once she and Cameron were alone again, Eleanor pondered her friend’s departure. I hope all is well with her.

She did look a little pale, Cameron concurred. Though he seemed ill at ease with talk about school days.

Probably because he didn’t attend such a prestigious school. She smiled in Cameron’s direction. Edward’s sensitive about that.

Unusual. Tell me, how are you spending your time now that you’re out of mourning?

I have plenty to occupy me. As I mentioned, I have a couple of businesses my late husband left that need my attention.

Such as? he inquired, cocking an eyebrow, the edges of his mouth curving up deliciously.

I’m afraid here is not the place to discuss my businesses.

He took a polite sip of punch. I understand and agree completely. Perhaps I could call on you some time?

I would like that very much. She noted her mother and sister still watching them intently. She let out a sigh. I wish I had come on my own. I really am in no mood to listen to the two of them.

He chuckled. What of Alec?

I believe my brother is attempting to win the affections of a certain young lady.

I hadn’t noticed. May I escort you home?

She smiled at him before taking a sip of punch. I would love that, Cameron. That is, if it’s not too much bother or out of your way.

No bother at all.

Thank you.

At that very moment, Prudence decided to approach them. Eleanor wondered what the child was going to say.

Prudence curtsied. Your Grace, it’s very nice to see you here this evening.

Lady Prudence, nice to see you as well, he replied, bowing.

In an instant, she turned toward Eleanor, her face solemn. Mother has gone to the ladies’ retiring room and would like you to join her.

Eleanor glared at her sister. She was not going to be reprimanded by anyone. Not even her mother. Is she feeling ill?

No, she simply wishes to speak to you, Eleanor. Now.

I was just about to escort your sister home. I believe she is a bit overwhelmed, being that it’s her first time out since coming out of mourning, Cameron said.

Eleanor bit the side of her mouth in an effort not to smile. He understood what was developing and was taking charge of the situation.

She doesn’t look very overwhelmed to me, Prudence grumbled.

Tell Mother I’ll check on her tomorrow. If she’s not feeling well, you might want to take her home, Prudence. Eleanor glanced at Cameron, who was attempting as hard as she was to be serious. I’m ready whenever you are.

He took her punch glass from her hand, set it on the tray of a passing footman, and, offering his arm, led her out of the ballroom.

***

Cameron lay sprawled across his bed the next morning. He looked through half-open eyes at his valet as the man cheerfully threw open the thick burgundy draperies, which until now had kept the room dark. Now he was faced with sunshine and a whistling valet.

The next thing he noted was that he was still dressed in his clothing from the night before. The countess’s ball. Then it occurred to him. He’d danced two dances with the Duchess of Bentley—Eleanor—and spent time with her. Taken her home before meeting up with his friends at White’s for a nightcap and cards.

No wonder his head felt as though it were in a vise.

Good morning, Your Grace. Shall I draw a bath?

Yes. What time did I get in last night?

Around four, Your Grace. You were talking about having the Duchess of Bentley for dinner this evening. Among other things.

Bloody hell, yes. He hadn’t imagined that. He had indeed invited her to dinner. Usually he didn’t drink to excess, but he’d been in such a good mood after having spent time with Eleanor. He’d decided it was better than anything else the other men he was with wanted to engage in.

In the Caribbean, he rarely drank, preferring to work. Working the fields was back-breaking, but it taught him discipline more than anything he’d learned in school. The same was true here. There was still much to catch up on after being gone for two years. First, he needed to bathe and make himself presentable. Duty called, and he wasn’t one to avoid his work.

Yes, I invited her to dine with me this evening. Could you make sure Cook knows I’m having a guest?

Already done, Your Grace. Anything else?

Just my bath for now. I’m meeting with a couple of MPs today. I need to catch up since I’ll be sitting this session.

You’re not going to wait?

It’s my duty. You know that, especially since my father had been unable to attend the past few years of his life, Cameron replied slowly swinging his legs over the side of the bed and sitting up.

You’ll do your father proud, Your Grace.

Cameron groaned as he stood. He began to unbutton his shirt with shaky fingers. I don’t know how proud he’d be of me at this particular moment.

You’re not the only man to have overindulged, Your Grace.

Good to know.

He slowly made his way across the room to the bathing chamber, noting his coat and waistcoat had already been picked up and neatly placed on the back of a chair. An empty crystal glass sat on a table, evidence he’d not quit at White’s.

The hot water steamed off the copper tub as he climbed in. Next to him, he saw that a bar of wintergreen soap and a cloth had been placed for his use. He submerged his head, hoping to be rid of the cobwebs rattling around in his brain.

As he sat there, Eleanor came to mind. The thought of seeing her after all these years made him mad with lust. The sound of her laughter, her touch, made him instantly hard. He couldn’t recall the last time a woman had done that to him, yet here he sat, in a tub, his cock standing at attention. No, make that begging for attention.

Certainly, he’d had his share of women while in the Caribbean. They were more passionate than English women. Freer and more open with their desire. Since he’d come home, nothing, no women. He’d been too busy sorting through two years’ worth of business to think of taking a mistress or any willing woman.

He wrapped his hand around his cock as he sat back in the bath, thinking what it would be like to lie with the widowed Duchess of Bentley. Dowager was such an old word. Made him think of his mother, and Eleanor was certainly unlike his mother or any other dowager he knew.

Slowly, he began to stroke his cock, his eyes closed as he imagined the two of them in his bed. Naked and with enough passion for a dozen couples. He didn’t see her as a shy debutant despite the age difference between her late husband and her. No, his Eleanor was a hot, passionate, loving woman. Of that he was sure.

His Eleanor. He remembered her scent, her touch while they danced the night before. Her mouth. Oh, how he could envision those lovely lips around his cock rather than his rougher hand. Her curls brushing against his thighs as she bobbed her head up and down, pleasuring him.

The strokes became longer, harder, faster, the tip of his cock purple and pulsing. The steam from the bath competed with the heat rising within as he envisioned Eleanor’s lips on