Ensnaring Lord Starsen Read online

  “Well, I must admit that my education has been much improved as of late. Honestly, before you, I could never imagine myself feeling those things, or wanting to do them.”

  He closed his eyes. “Don’t say things like that.”

  “Why not? You feel the same way. I know you want to do those things with me.”

  A strangled sound escaped his mouth. “No. Isabella, I—”

  “Isn’t that what desiring means?” She pointed to his breeches. “What that means.”

  He didn’t respond, so she stood and moved toward him. His body remained so still, she wasn’t sure what had happened to him. He didn’t open his eyes, either.

  “Marcus, are you all right? I just wanted to—”

  His eyes popped open. “I must go. Please, excuse me.”

  Without another word or glance, Marcus hurried through the opening to exit the maze. She stared after him, shocked. Part of her wanted to follow him and demand he explain, but she remained immobile. If he didn’t want to talk about his desire, it could be a problem. After all, she didn’t want his thoughts straying to Miss Ashford.

  She would have to double her efforts to find out what he had promised Miss Ashford. Once that matter was settled, they would marry, and he’d have no reason to run from her again.

  ~ ~ ~

  “I’m telling you, Marcus, I’ll not stand for it any longer.” His mother’s chest heaved as she glared down at him.

  Marcus let out a long sigh. “You don’t exactly have a choice.”

  “This is your father’s house. He would be ashamed of you.”

  That got him to his feet. “It is my house now, and it has been for many years. Besides, you don’t have a right to determine if he was or wasn’t proud of me. I’ve read his journals. I know more truth about his life than you.”

  She gritted her teeth. “That may be the case, but he chose me for his countess. Never would he have even considered someone as wild as that girl. It’s true that he would have slipped between the sheets with her, but that was it.”

  “Let me make this clear to you. I am not my father. Whomever I choose for my countess, whether it be Lady Isabella or not, it is not for you to approve or disapprove.”

  After a few seconds of staring at him, she dropped down into the chair, her skirts billowing up around her. “I just don’t understand what happened. You and I both had agreed that the girl was unsuitable.”

  Considering his mother was making an attempt to remain calm, he released his breath and, with it, a small amount of the fury pounding through his veins. “We made judgments on the lady before actually coming to know her.”

  “Is that what you were doing, then? When I caught you two alone in here? Getting to know one another?”

  Unwilling to give a response, he simply stared at her, his face emotionless. She squirmed a little, then cleared her throat. Part of him wished he could just send her out, but that would solve nothing. He needed to address this now and put this whole situation behind them.

  “Now,” he began. “I find it difficult to understand why Miss Ashford complained to you about my interactions with Lady Isabella when it was she who invited the lady to help plan the event.”

  “Complain may not be the correct word.”

  Realizing his mother had exaggerated the situation, he let out a breath. “Perhaps I should call the lady in here, and she can tell me herself.”

  Red crawled up his mother’s neck. “That won’t be necessary. I would hate to bother the girl. Besides, her mentioning you and Lady Isabella was done in passing.”

  “Then, why did you barge in here claiming that Miss Ashford was upset by my relationship with Lady Isabella?”

  “Because I don’t want you to lose your chance with that girl. She fits into our lives very well and will make an admirable wife. When Lady Isabella is about, Miss Ashford feels threatened.”

  “She told you this?”

  His mother stuck her chin in the air. “I can just tell. You need to give the girl the attention she deserves and reassure her.”

  “Mother, I am only going to say this once. Stay out of my affairs. I have an understanding with both Lady Isabella and Miss Ashford. I daresay neither one feels any threat by the other.”

  “But—”

  “Enough. As it happens, I am meeting them both in the drawing room in an hour. I have matters I must attend to first, so please, excuse me.”

  “Just like that, I’m dismissed?”

  He rubbed his fingers against his forehead. “Was there something else you wanted?”

  “No. I suppose not.”

  As he got back to work, he couldn’t stop thinking about the predicament he found himself in. It didn’t make sense for Miss Ashford to complain about Isabella, but nothing about his life had decided to go the way he would prefer it.

  Thoughts of being with Isabella in the maze accosted him. The feel of her in his lap, of her mouth on his, of her breasts in his palm. He let out a groan as the familiar rush of desire flooded him.

  His fascination with her was swiftly getting out of hand. To make things more complicated, it wasn’t only the carnal urges driving him. He wanted her for so much more. When they weren’t together, she was all he could think about. Simply being in the same room with her was a pleasure. He’d even wondered after her opinion on certain decisions he’d had to make.

  By the time an hour had passed, he’d managed to finish very little work. Unfortunately, he was too anxious to see Isabella that he didn’t even care how far behind he had fallen.

  Pausing in the hallway outside the drawing room, he worked to keep his face in a mask of neutrality. It wouldn’t do for either one of them to see his anxiousness.

  “There you are, my lord.” Miss Ashford shot him a huge smile. “We were going over the guest list.”

  “I’m sorry I’m late. Please put me to work.”

  As they went through the planning, Marcus was astounded by how easily the two ladies worked together. Never once did Miss Ashford express any concern over Isabella, and she went as far as to encourage him and Isabella to work together upon a few occasions. Overall, the time was passed companionably, and he was surprised to find he had enjoyed himself.

  “This place will certainly feel the loss when you leave for your season,” Isabella remarked to Miss Ashford once they had completed the final tasks for the day.

  A warm smile covered the girl’s lips. “Nonsense. I’ve never been the bit of life in the room, nor will I ever be.”

  “Don’t speak so low of yourself,” Marcus argued. “We have immensely enjoyed your company.”

  Miss Ashford glanced at Isabella then frowned. Had his words sounded too much like he and Isabella had spoken of her in the past? He hoped not. The last thing he wanted to do was make her feel like she wasn’t an equal friend.

  “You are too kind.” Miss Ashford inclined her head. “Now, Isabella, tell me, do you think your brother will accept our invitation for the moonlight nature walk?”

  With her brows furrowed, Isabella studied the girl. “I’m quite certain he will.”

  “That’s good. I have been meaning to acquaint myself with him and haven’t had a good opportunity in the past. I hope he won’t mind taking a turn around the garden with me.”

  Unsure of her purpose, Marcus moved his gaze between the two women. However, Isabella appeared as confused as he. The idea that Miss Ashford could have formed an interest in the earl didn’t sit well with him. Although Isabella may disagree, Midcliffe wouldn’t be the best choice for any woman.

  As he thought back to the conversation he’d had with Miss Ashford about love, his uncomfortable feeling grew. Did she fancy herself falling in love with the man? Marcus wanted her to choose a husband for love, not comfort. But Midcliffe?

  Any ideas he had about stealing Isabella away during the nature walk vanished. Now he would have to concentrate his efforts on keeping Miss Ashford away from Midcliffe.

  Perhaps the time had arrived to make h
is betrothal to Miss Ashford official. That would save the girl from making a foolish decision. A lump formed in the pit of his stomach. It was time for him to give up Isabella.

  Chapter 10

  Stretching in her chair, Isabella let out a contented sigh. Avange Manor’s cook had certainly outdone herself on the delicious scones for tea. It made Isabella grateful for the invitation.

  “Would you care for another?” Carolyn Ashford asked, her open face not expressing any judgment.

  Isabella laughed. “If I do, I’m certain I will pop. The cook undoubtedly is skilled.”

  “I agree. That’s one thing I will miss when I leave.”

  That got Isabella’s attention. The last time they spoke of her returning to London, her friend neither confirmed nor denied it. Did that mean Marcus hadn’t made the promise to Carolyn? If not, who had he made a promise to? The thought of an unknown lady claiming Marcus’s attention made her uneasy.

  In an attempt to appear uninterested, Isabella smoothed a hand down her skirt. “From the way Lady Starsen talks, I wasn’t sure you still intended to have your season.”

  A secret smile covered Carolyn’s lips and Isabella had to work hard to control her jealousy. “I know she has been harboring certain hopes about Lord Starsen and me but, at present, I see no reason to change my plans.”

  The statement didn’t help determine if Carolyn was the lady to whom Marcus had made his promise. Unfortunately, she couldn’t ask her friend without betraying what he had told her. She would have to try another tactic.

  “Then, you don’t see the earl as a potential suitor?” As soon as the question fell from her lips, she regretted asking. Honestly, she didn’t want to hear the answer.

  “I believe Lord Starsen would be a fine husband. Don’t you agree?”

  Stunned, Isabella blinked. Was she asking for herself or for Isabella? Deciding to give an honest answer, Isabella cleared her throat. “He would make anyone a wonderful husband. He’s loyal, kind, and very thoughtful.”

  “Have you thought much on the subject?”

  The amusement on Carolyn’s face brought heat to her cheeks. “Not really. Those very qualities also make him a desirous friend. Don’t you agree?”

  “Absolutely. But, there is more to him.” Carolyn leaned forward. “I have seen sparks of passion in him that can set a woman’s heart aflutter.”

  “Really?” It was hard to speak over the lump forming in her throat. Apparently, Marcus had been spreading his kisses around. Breathing became difficult as she tried to keep her emotions at bay. Although he’d never made any declarations to her, she couldn’t help the feeling of betrayal.

  “Do you honestly believe him to be dull? After spending so much time together, I thought you knew him better.”

  Isabella watched in confusion as the girl stood and began pacing the room. What was going on? Normally Carolyn appeared well put-together. Something was bothering her. Something about Marcus. Had the girl discovered he’d been kissing Isabella as well?

  “I would have said I knew him well, but I’m not so sure anymore.”

  Stopping near the mantle, Carolyn let out a deep breath. “This is not as easy as I had hoped. People are much too confusing and complicated.”

  Isabella laughed as she crossed the room to stand beside her friend. “I agree wholeheartedly. Tell me what you are trying to do, and perhaps I can assist you.”

  “I don’t think you could. You see, I have a certain plan, and none of the pieces are falling into place.”

  Excitement brought out Isabella’s smile. “I love a good plan. Can I help?”

  After staring at her for a few seconds, Carolyn nodded her head. “Very well. At the nature walk, I’d like you to occupy Lord Starsen’s time.”

  Fascinated, Isabella could barely contain her shock. “What’s the plan? What will you be doing?”

  “I agreed to let you help, not tell you my purpose.”

  Releasing her breath in a huff, Isabella crossed her arms. “Very well. So, how do you propose I entertain the earl?”

  “Whichever way suits you.” Carolyn shrugged.

  “And, what part does my brother play in this? I haven’t forgotten your intention to speak with him that night.”

  The girl clicked her tongue. “Stop trying to find out more about my objective. I’ll have you know, I have no intention of telling you.”

  “As you wish, but just so you know, my brother isn’t one to trifle with. I found it always better to keep him out of my scheming.”

  “I appreciate the warning. Now, let me show you the acceptances we have received.”

  Their discussion moved to the details of the event. Carolyn didn’t mention her plan again. Although Isabella was intrigued and thrilled to help, she wasn’t sure she liked her half-brother’s part in it. Henry should be left out of whatever the girl was planning, and Marcus . . . She wasn’t sure she liked his part, either.

  Had she been asked an hour ago, she would have been overjoyed to spend the time with him. Now, however, the betrayal ran deep. How could she keep him occupied and stay away from him at the same time?

  When she left the manor, she was greeted by Raymond. He appeared more agitated than usual. It made her miss the time he’d been away visiting his family. The necessity to rid herself of his constant companionship made her weary. Although, she supposed it didn’t matter any longer, after all she wouldn’t be sneaking off to see Marcus again.

  “I don’t like you disappearing inside that manor. This is just like when the baron was here,” Raymond grumbled.

  Isabella shook her head. “I told you the truth then, and I’m telling it now. The time I spent with Baron Dailey was to make Annalise jealous enough to realize her true feelings for the man. I had no interest in him.”

  “And now?” Raymond stopped walking and faced her. “Something keeps drawing you to Avange Manor, and I don’t accept that it is the random visitors.”

  She let out an exasperated sigh, then lightly touched his arm. “I appreciate you looking out for me, and I want you to know there is no danger to me at Avange Manor. Besides, once Miss Ashford leaves, there will be nothing left there for me.”

  After patting her hand, he began walking again, but the hardness in his eyes didn’t lessen. In time, he would learn the truth. Nothing would happen between her and Marcus. He’d admitted as much to her upon several occasions. Now it was time she began listening to him.

  ~ ~ ~

  Marcus ran his eyes over the crowd, his jaw tight. He didn’t like this one bit.

  “Who are you looking for?” Isabella demanded, pulling Marcus’s attention from the guests.

  He cleared his throat. “No one in particular. Why do you ask?”

  “Because you have been distracted this whole evening.”

  Letting out a long breath, Marcus ran a hand through his hair. She was right. The thought of Miss Ashford taking an interest in the older, unpredictable Lord Midcliffe filled him with unease. The girl needed to find someone younger and with a calmer disposition than that particular man.

  “I’m simply trying to ensure that all the guests are having a pleasant time tonight. It’s my duty as the host.”

  She raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. “Your eyes don’t stop on each guest. Actually, forget I asked. I don’t care.”

  That, and her anger, captured his full attention. Although he felt bad for ignoring her, his reason was just. If only he could find the girl, then he could enjoy this time with Isabella, and keep his eye on Miss Ashford.

  “I’m sorry. The nature walk is supposed to be a treat. Perhaps I can find someone else to attend you.”

  Her mouth dropped open, and he wished he could take his words back. Taking her arm, he led her toward the back of the group, his steps unhurried. When an appropriate distance away, he slipped them down a pathway.

  “Why did you bring me here? Clearly you wish to be with someone else tonight.”

  Needing to make this better, he ran a han
d down her cheek, but she pulled back from him. “Isabella, that’s not what I meant.”

  “Then, explain it to me.”

  This was happening too soon. He wasn’t ready to give her up. Unfortunately, he didn’t seem to have a choice. Considering Miss Ashford began expressing an interest in an unsuitable man, she hadn’t been receiving enough of his time. That would change as soon as they were betrothed.

  “You know I enjoy your company,” he began. “And, I would love to spend the evening with you, but I am not free to do so.”

  “Miss Ashford? Is she the reason why?”

  Not seeing any anger on her face, he nodded.

  “And, she is who you were looking for earlier?”

  Again, he nodded. “I don’t like the idea of her being lost in the group. What if she has been pulled down a deserted path? I’d never forgive myself if something were to happen to her.”

  Isabella’s jaw tightened. “Is it her you don’t trust or your guests? If you had concern over their characters, you should have mentioned something when we had planned the guest list.”

  “It isn’t like that. You know how easy it is for someone to be pulled off the main pathway.”

  The heat of her glare singed his skin. “You mean like how you have pulled me away? Yes, so easy. I didn’t even put up much of a fight.”

  “This is different.”

  “No. It’s not. You think so little of both Miss Ashford and I. Two stupid, young women who let dangerous men pull us aside.” She tilted her head, looking up at him. “Considering how you planned to hand me off to some random gentleman, I see how little you care about my well-being.”

  Anger surged through him. “You know that isn’t the case at all. I would have made sure you were safe. Besides, you have more people who would protect you. Miss Ashford is the stranger here.”

  “You’re right. She is with Henry—who poses no danger to her—whereas I have so many people to protect me, that I couldn’t possibly have been escorted away with any gentleman.” She scoffed.