Historical Romance: The Games the Earl Plays A High Society Regency Romance: Heirs of High Society, #2

prologue

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London, England

Well, it has been a year, and Rose is thriving far better than I thought she would. I can admit now that I didn’t believe she would make it. Indeed, even my sister Mary Frances and young Christmas seemed to have more faith in the babe than I did. Rose was such a tiny and sickly babe, and I thought that even if she survived, she’d be much like her father, Lord Stonewhire, who often said he suffered from one bout of illness after another— as though that ever stopped him from charming women.

His heir died a month ago, as did the other. 

But Rose’s fate is not to be so bleak.

Rose is plump with cheeks that nearly match the rosy-hued lips she’s been gifted her name after. Her wealth of color and her smile remind me of her mother, Jessamine Bryce, whom I befriended at a party to raise money for the home and who called me to her home late one evening to forewarn me that the child she carried would be given into my hands.

It was a night I will not forget and one that still weighs heavy on my heart for the things I didn’t say and the questions I never asked.

I never judged the circumstances that brought Rose into life, a girl who was obviously loved long before she was born by the two people who’d brought her into existence.

But for such a small child, she already shows a great strength, and I can only wonder what sort of woman she will become.

Truly, I can only wonder...

- From the Diary of Mary Elizabeth Best

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chapter 1

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London, England

August 1816

It’s official. My favorite color is the color of Gerard de Gray’s eyes.

Their hue was a shade darker than gold at the moment. A bronze just as hard as his strong jawline and noble nose. All anyone had to do was look at him and they'd know he was the son of someone great and powerful. A duke.

Rose was currently watching Gerard from the corner of her eye. His gaze rested on Lady Sylvia, who was currently singing her own rendition of The Ash Grove. One could say that he was captivated by her voice, but that would only be part of the story.

They both stiffened as Lady Sylvia tried to hit a note that was not quite within her reach. His eyes slipped over to Rose, and he smiled.

She bit her lip and watched as he touched the side of his nose. Her heart raced, and she nodded before turning back as Lady Sylvia finally brought the song to a close.

The room applauded her in good fashion and Rose counted to ten, forcing herself to do so slowly before she fled Lady Sylvia’s music room.

She glanced around the foyer and caught sight of Gerard down the hall, standing by the open doors that led to the gardens. He touched his nose again and then slipped into the night.

Following the signal, Rose waited another ten seconds before she joined him.

The moment she was outside, he took her hand and pulled her further into the moonlight. Her heart raced as the night air cooled her skin. The sounds of the pianoforte in the music room took up another song in the distance, but all Rose could hear was the sound of her own rushed breathing.

It was the last party of the Season, and Rose had accompanied her sister, Alexandra Padmore, Lady Chantenny, only to see Gerard.

Their acquaintance began a little over a year ago when Alex married Gerard's best friend, Justin Padmore. At first, Rose and Gerard had only been cordial to one another. He was an earl who would one day take his father's place as a duke, while Rose didn't even know who her father was... Or her mother, for that matter.

Given away at birth, Rose had grown up in an orphanage in East London while Gerard had been raised with the luxuries of the wealthy. They had little common ground and yet their friendship had bloomed in those first months like two souls who'd finally found what they'd always searched for.

Remind me again why we come to these things? He was staring at the moon as he spoke, but Rose knew he was speaking to her.

The urge to move closer to him was so great that she moved to the stone bench to stop herself from doing just that. 

She looked down at the tulips at her feet and said, I believe the real question is why I allow you to drag me to these events.

He turned to her with his back to the stars, and the light from the glass windows spilled upon him, emphasizing his height, the width of his shoulders, slim waist, and shiny boots. His dark hair faded into the night. He smiled. I didn't drag you. You wanted to come.

Oh, it was true. She had wanted to come, but she would never let him know that. She always did well to hide her affections for this man, who was just as out of reach as Lady Sylvia's notes.

Gerard was an easy charmer. He was handsome, and Rose knew of many ladies who hoped to become his countess and eventual duchess.

But Rose, who knew never to dare wish for such a future with him, had decided in the beginning that instead of revealing just how much she melted in her slippers at his mere smile, she would tease him and make light of his charms.

And he adored her for it.

But if only he knew the truth.

It seemed the old saying of playing hard to catch was true, but Rose still knew that Gerard would only ever offer friendship, and that would have to be enough.

I did want to come, Rose confessed. I had to see you... And see that look on your face when it was Lady Sylvia's turn to sing.

Gerard laughed, and Rose caught her breath at the sound. She forced herself not to stiffen as he moved to sit beside her.

To her heart, it was a needed torture to be with him. She craved his attention, and he gave it to her without her ever asking for it.

He frowned. I can't believe this is the last evening we'll be together until the baby's birth. He reached out and touched her cheek. However will you get on without me?

Rose giggled to hide the pleasure of his touch. Oh, much in the same fashion as I did before we met. She sighed dramatically. Such lovely days they were.

He laughed again. She was always glad she could make him laugh like that.

Tell me your plans, he asked honestly. I can’t imagine anything bringing you the same amount of joy as my company.

Neither could she, but she played along nonetheless. She tapped her lips lightly. "Let's see. Perhaps I'll finally have time to read Emma, since you never let me finish it." Whenever she got a break at the library, she would try to get through a chapter, but then Gerard would show up and any thoughts of reading would flee.

He arched a brow. Rose, if you've not finished the book by now then it can't be that good.

But that's not true, she countered. Emma was a very good book, and the anonymous author was one of her favorite writers. It was simply that nothing held as much appeal to her as Gerard did.

And he was right to ask what she would do for an entire autumn without him. She’d grown used to him always being there, and Alexandra wasn't due until January. I enjoy her... or him or... whoever writes these books. That her favorite author chose never to reveal their name always drove Rose mad. She’d fallen in love with Sense and Sensibility, and when Pride and Prejudice had come out the author of the next book had simply been listed as ‘The author of Sense and Sensibility. Every other book by the author had done the same, listing her previous work, but never her name.  She has a way with stories and words.

He winked. I have a way with words.

She scoffed. Oh, I would beg to differ.

You doubt me? he asked in mock offense.

Rose straightened. Prove me wrong if you must. I'll choose one word for you to have your way with.

Gerard brightened at the prospect of a game. Choose.

Collywobbles. She had to bite the inside of her cheeks to keep from laughing.

He stared and then glared. Rose, there is nothing remotely sensual about a bellyache.

She shrugged and stood. It was time to head back inside before anyone realized they'd both slipped away. Very well.

He stood and grabbed her arm before turning her to face him. His other hand came to rest on her stomach, adding a light pressure. He lowered his mouth to her ear, and the dark scent of his cologne filled her lungs.

His breath brushed her neck. Collywobbles.

Rose stiffened to block a flood of emotion and then watched in awe as Gerard pulled away and caught her eyes.

His grin came slowly. I believe I’ve won.

Rose couldn't speak and knew then that their moments alone had to come to an end. Perhaps a few months away from him wouldn't be the worst thing.

She touched the side of her nose, a code they'd worked out last year to mean that the other should wait ten seconds before following.

Then she gave him her best dull expression before turning away.

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chapter 2

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Gerard de Gray was playing a dangerous game. But he didn’t want to stop.

He couldn’t stop.

How he and Rose had begun their enchanting game of flirt and jest, he wasn’t sure, but nothing brightened his day more than seeing her. He was obsessed with the little woman, if he were being honest. Of late, he’d found it hard to imagine a future without her. In a short time, she’d surpassed every other friend he’d ever made with the only exception being his best friend, Justin Padmore, the Earl of Chantenny. Yet even Justin had commented on Gerard’s recent absence. During the Season, they were usually together, but since their friendship was frowned upon by Society, they often pretended to be strangers even when standing right next to one another. They were not as open about the friendship as two men or two women could be, but that didn’t diminish the friendship in any way. Sometimes it only enhanced it.

Rose was like a precious candle giving off light and dispelling the shadows of his life.

Though as the months passed, the game that had started light had become very heavy.

He liked her.

No, he more than liked her, and knowing what his feelings were prompted him to venture farther into the garden instead of returning to the house. He took the path directly down the center toward a fountain of a woman holding a lantern in the distance.

There were a few others about, men and women who’d had the foresight to escape the music room long before Lady Sylvia’s performance. It was a yearly event the woman held, and members of the ton only came because the night also showcased private performances of some of the world’s best musicians and soloists. The latter made it worth listening to Lady Sylvia for a half an hour or so.

But he’d also come tonight because Rose had been with him last year, and the very thought of her reaction to the woman’s voice had made him laugh aloud while he’d been in a meeting with his father—a man who never gave cause for laughter.

He put thoughts of his father to the side for the moment, not willing to end the good mood which always came with thoughts of Rose.

Had someone told him a year ago that he’d take a woman from an orphanage into his confidence, he’d have called them out. There had never been a member of the lower-class in his circle until her, and though he’d met more sensual and alluring women, no one drew him in like she did.

He stopped before the statue of the woman, who looked north while holding her lantern high and, not for the first time, wondered who she was. Perhaps she was Artemis, the goddess of light, or simply a woman trying to find her way. Or perhaps she was Lady Sylvia herself. That idea wasn’t entirely implausible. Lady Sylvia enjoyed no one more than herself, and as a wealthy widow she had the money to spoil herself endlessly.

Gerard?

He turned at the sound of Justin’s voice and watched as he and his wife, Lady Alexandra, rounded the statue. Looking at her, no one would guess that she and Rose had grown up together. Both had been left at Mary Elizabeth Best’s Home as children. The only difference was blood. Alexandra was the daughter of a viscount, thus Society was learning to accept her. This came easier once she’d married Justin, and easier still when it became clear she was determined to master the etiquette of a true lady.

She smiled as she stopped before him. The lanterns in the garden brightened her gray eyes, though her black curls still blended into the night. Where’s Rose?

Gerard shrugged a shoulder. How would I know? Likely, she’s still inside the house.

Alex lifted a brow. Gerard, you can’t hide the truth from me. I know very well how close you and Rose have grown, and it has made me quite happy knowing that the four of us get along so well. Will you be joining us at Chantenny Hall once the Season is over?

Justin nodded. Yes, come with us and get away from the old man. There was no need for anyone to expand on what ‘old man’ Justin referred to.

Gerard had been invited to do so the previous year but had refused since Alex and Justin had only just married. Unfortunately, this year, he’d have to turn them down once again.

I’m afraid I can’t. The old man is forcing me to go to Avon Park. Lord Grant is to hold a lecture on his medical findings, and my father wishes me to report his findings back to him. Were it not for the lecture, Gerard would have gone with Justin... or remained in the city. Rose would remain in the city and work at the Montgomery Library, even though she didn’t have to. Alex and Justin had offered her the leisurely life of a lady, but she’d refused, claiming that she enjoyed her work. Were it not for Gerard’s interruptions, she’d work from open to close without complaint. She was odd in that way.

Justin frowned. Why does he make you go to the lecture? Does he think Lord Grant can cure whatever ailment he has?

Gerard stiffened and then relaxed. I suppose, though I doubt anything I learn will lead him away from the path his body is going. It seemed the Duke of Avon grew weaker every day. He could still move around on a cane, but going to a lecture three times a week for a month was impossible. Not one of the hundred physicians in London or even England could cure Avon, much less tell him what he suffered from. Gerard had been told by Justin that many believed him to be dying from the evil that lived within him, proving that there was indeed a God who listened to the prayers of the weak. Gerard was inclined to believe them.

I’ll join Rose in the music room. Alex placed a small hand on her slightly protruded belly and turned to Justin. Someone must represent our house during Lady Sylvia’s last performance.

Gerard looked at his pocket watch and noted that the evening was drawing to an end.

You truly are a saint, Justin said then placed a kiss on her hand before letting her go, though it was obvious from their body language that he’d wished to have done more. Once she was gone, Justin turned back to Gerard. You didn’t mention the lectures when we arrived earlier this evening. The group had come to Lady Sylvia’s together in Gerard’s carriage, just as they did most events.

Gerard rolled his eyes and looked at the fountain. I try very hard not to think about the old man when I am making an effort to have a good evening.

Justin stood closer and the green in his eyes became more visible. How are your feelings toward him today?

He’s my father, Gerard said. Sometimes I want to do everything I can to see him return to good health, yet a part of me believes it’s his time. London was holding their breath for it, and Gerard could almost hear the chorused sighs that would be released at word of his passing. Avon had many enemies, his son included. His father always claimed that all he ever did was for Gerard, but Gerard knew better. His father took pleasure in causing others pain. Today, I hold some sympathy for him, though I believe at this point he’d enjoy death more than his next breath. That was how much pain the duke was in.

Justin grabbed his shoulder. You let me know if there is anything I can do for you.

Gerard nodded. I will. A few months in the country away from his father would do him well, even though he abhorred isolation. He enjoyed parties and people. He’d miss his friends.

They headed back to the house and arrived just in time to hear the screeched final note and join in the cheering before heading to their carriage.

Since it was Gerard’s carriage, he’d picked up Justin and Alex before picking up Rose. He would see Rose home before delivering Justin and Alex to the Chantenny London residence. At least, that was what he’d assumed before they got into the carriage.

Alex groaned and touched her stomach. Gerard, would you mind if you took us home first? I feel terrible.

Justin straightened in the bench next to Gerard and leaned toward his wife. Are you all right? His face was etched with worry.

She gave him a weak smile. Yes, but I’m quite nauseous. I don’t think our son enjoys meat. He has all but made me an herbivore, but I did try the veneer this evening. A mistake, it seems.

I’ll get you home immediately, Gerard said before giving his driver new instructions.

Rose grabbed Alex’s hand and held it the entire ride, frowning when it came time to let it go. She moved to the window to see her friend away. I’ll be by to see you in the morning.

Alex was ushered toward the house by Justin, who looked ready to carry her. She laughed. Really, I’m quite all right. I’ll be fine in the morning, but come if you wish to keep me company.

When the butler opened the door and the carriage was under way again, Justin turned to Rose.

She was still staring out the door that Alex had departed from, and he wondered if her mind was still on her friend or if she was simply avoiding him.

How was the final performance?

That earned him a colorful reaction. Rose rolled her eyes and slumped in the seat. Oh, you did miss it, didn’t you? Well, allow me to share the experience. Then she broke out in song. Justin cringed and at the same time laughed until his sides hurt. Rose never did or said what he expected, and any other woman would die rather than embarrass herself in front of him.

But not Rose.

Her impersonation of Lady Sylvia carried the flaws of the woman she was mimicking, and by the last note, Justin adored Rose just as much as he wanted to strangle her.

I could sing another, she suggested with a devious glint in her pale blue eyes.

Please, no more, he said with tears in his eyes.

She chuckled and then sighed before looking down at the hands that rested in her lap. It was an evening I’ll not soon forget.

"Well, aren’t you glad I dragged you along?"

She looked up and smiled. "Oh, yes, I do like to torment you every so