Page 88 of A Tale of Two Dukes

With a growl, he storms over to me, tucking his knuckle under my chin. Urging me up, he winds his hands around my waist, holding me steady as his lips descend upon mine. Ferocious, commanding, and all-encompassing, he devours me, forcing his tongue past my teeth.

With sharp thrusts, he pushes his way in then drags himself out, mimicking a far more lewd act, one that I so desperately desire. When he eventually pulls away, we both gasp, fighting for air as lust simmers in between us. His touch, as he grazes my cheek, is tender, tempered, a far cry from the kiss he just bestowed.

“Ah, Your Grace,” he sighs, running his thumb along my bottom lip. “How you tempt me so. Come. The sooner we make our appearance at this ball, the sooner I can bring you back upstairs to make good on your promise.”

Dissolving into a fit of giggles, I follow my husband down the stairs and into the fray. Bodies crowd most available areas, filling the space with laughter and sounds of merriment. Though joyful, it drives a spike of panic into my heart.

What was I thinking? I’m not a duchess. I’m a harlot. Surely, they must all know that and gather around to mock and stare. Drawing back, I try to walk back up the stairs, but William’s strong grip keeps me from moving.

Breathe, love, he whispers into my mind. No one here will dare say such a thing and live. You are Catherine Giles, daughter to a fine earl, God rest his soul. That’s all anyone here will know about you.

But The Rose and Thorne-

Madame Douler has been gracious enough to explain to everyone our theatrics were just lovers’ games. She also impressed upon all who would hear about the threat to your life and how brave you were to face such peril. If anything, these people will feel sympathy toward you.

He turns to me, his eyes flashing as he stares into my being. “But more than that,” he grumbles out loud. “You are worthy. No matter what happens, even if you were a harlot as I once believed, you and your kind, generous, delectable soul makes you worth it. Anyone who dares to utter anything differently will meet me on the dueling fields.”

A soft smile crosses my lips as I allow him to draw me into the shelter of his arms. “I pray no one dares let their tongues waggle then. One duel was more than enough for me.”

He plants a gentle kiss upon my lips before bringing me down into the mass of people. Just as he said, the strongest reaction drifting off the guests, namely women, is a hint of sorrow and concern. The more I intermingle, the calmer I feel, relaxed, knowing that my deepest secret is safe.

Next to me, however, William stiffens. Following his gaze, I note an older woman flanked on either side by two younger girls. Her body dips slightly, taking on a frail, pale look.

My heart leaps into my throat as my mate’s unease rings out through the bond. Taking my hand in his, we make our way over, concern pulsing through me as we near. The two younger girls dip down into a curtsy before turning their attention back to the older woman.

“Mother. Are you ill?” Worry vibrates in his tone, and soon, his brother stands on the opposite side of me.

“You should be resting,” he calls out, reaching for her.

With a soft smile, she shoos them both away before gathering my hand in hers. “I needed to meet the woman who has stolen my William’s heart.” Pausing, she looks me up and down, her lips parting into a wide smile. “Such a pretty little thing you are.”

My cheeks flame as I dip down, showing her the respect due a dowager duchess. “You are too kind-”

“Nonsense,” she chortles, squeezing my hand. “I’ve been told I’m too honest for my own good.” Nodding over at William, she gives them one final squeeze before patting Blackport on the arm. “I have seen the girl. I approve of the girl. I need to go home and rest.”

The two brothers exchange worried glances at each other, and my heart aches from the pain I feel on William’s end. “Very well, Mother,” the brother replies. “Shall the girls accompany you?”

“Nonsense. They need to get a view of the marriage mart before the next season. I’m sure you and William can see to their safety.”

“Yes, Mother. They will be safe under our watchful eye.”

“And you, dear, I wish to get to know you better. Dinner?”

Blackport steps up, his frame nearly vibrating with worry. “When you’re feeling better. Now come. I shall see you to your carriage.”

We watch as they walk away, my heart heavy. To my knowledge, my mother and sister are still well, but it’s been far too long since I’ve seen them with my own eyes. However, as I turn to make my acquaintance with my new sisters-in-law, a familiar scent catches my nose.

It can’t be. Turning, I scan the room, my gaze touching on everyone. There, near the window, are my mother and sister. My heart nearly bursts as they spot me, their lips splitting into wide grins.

Though I know Mr. Beaumont lied about my sister being ill, seeing her here releases the last bit of stress that’s weighed heavily on my shoulders. Paying no care to my mate, I hurry to them, tears dotting my eyes, threatening to blur my vision.

“Josephine,” I cry out, hugging her close to me. Next to us, Mother dabs at her own eyes as she gives me a watery smile. Pulling back, I look my sister over, needing to reassure myself she’s well. “I thought-” I choke out, pulling her back into my arms. “Never mind what I thought. You’re here now. And well, I hope?”

“As well as can be,” she replies gently, extricating herself from my grip. “The doctor has assured us that my lungs are on the mend. I am not at my strongest, but he believes with moderate exercise and fresh air, I’ll be well on my way.”

I blink, forcing the tears back. Next to me, William slides up, wrapping his arm about my waist. “Right Honorable Overton,” he addresses my mother, bowing slightly. “It is an honor to make your acquaintance.”

She dips into a curtsy, hiding her smile behind her fan. “And I, you. Such a naughty daughter to keep her nuptials from me. But when I heard about the threat… Well, you are forever in my debt for keeping her safe.”