Runaway Desire

By Elaine Angelus Kehler

Lord James Westcott is described as a scoundrel, with walls of stone surrounding his heart. Fast becoming famous for his affairs with the married women of London's Elite, he lives for pleasure alone. When and where it can be found. Until the night Miss Harriet Gordon is placed in his arms. Half dead by the hand of her finance, Lord Westcott promises to keep her safe. A pledge he intends to keep.

Miss Harriet Gordon is betrothed to a man chosen by her uncle. Although quite handsome and charming, Harriet feels there is something missing. Something about him that is just a little out of place. For a man anxious to marry, there is no passion in his kiss. They leave her cold and empty. Yet it is her duty to obey her uncle's wishes, and she is ready to go through with the match. Until the night she learns his secret. A secret that would change her life forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Elaine Angelus Kehler
• Release date: Mar 28, 2019
• ISBN: 9781540163134

Book preview

PROLOGUE

LORD JAMES WESTCOTT was never happier than when he left London early that morning. It was now guaranteed he would inherit his father's title, Earl of Cotham. He was in love and on his way to Fairecott Park to ask Penelope Hargrove to be his bride. He would have asked her days ago, but due to her aunt's sudden illness, she was indisposed.

As he rode up the drive, he slowed his horse and stopped when he reached the manor. Something was out of place. There was no one at the front of the house, and all the windows were closed and shuttered. It looked as if the house was in mourning. He dismounted and took the steps two at a time. He pounded on the door several times.

No one answered.

He found a window with a loose shutter and pulled it from its hinges to look into the house. All the furniture and chandeliers were covered in linens. Penelope was gone. James stood there staring into the empty room.

Where could they be? Did Penelope's aunt Lady Chadwick force her to leave without a word to him? He had to find out, and he knew just where to ask.

LADY AMELIA WESTCOTT saw her brother-in-law James riding toward the house, and her heart sank. How much should she tell him of the circumstances surrounding Penelope's departure? As she thought of what she would say, she was glad her husband Raine and the rest of the family went to the village. It was better she speaks with James alone.

Where is Penelope? James asked after he was announced.

James, please sit down, Amelia said nervously.

I don't want to sit down. I want to know what happened to Penelope, James insisted.

Penelope and Lady Chadwick are gone. They have sailed for America, Amelia said softly. I am sure she never meant to hurt you.

James sunk into a nearby chair. Amelia went to his side.

I am so sorry.

I will go after her, James said when he regained his composure. I will bring her back, and we will be married.

No, James, you can't, Amelia told him.

Why? James asked and stood, facing Amelia. I love her, and she loves me. I want her to be my wife.

You do not want that. Amelia found it hard not to say more.

I will go after her and I will find her, James said.

She doesn't love you, Amelia finally admitted. It was then that she knew the truth was the only way to stop him. It had to be said. Amelia sat down and looked up at James. She saw his unbelieving look. Everything she told you was a lie, James. She and Walter used you to gather information they could use against Raine.

I don't believe you, James said and sat in the chair opposite Amelia.

It is true. You told Walter about Raine's mother and about his tryst with the woman in the garden, Amelia told him. I know you did not mean any harm. You never suspected them of plotting against us. You believed you could trust them. We all thought they could be trusted.

How did you learn this? James asked.

The day of our wedding, Penelope told us herself of the plot to kill Raine. They thought they could force me to marry Walter. James listened in silence. Walter was behind it all. He used you and her to try to get what he wanted. She was terrified of him. It wasn't her fault.

Amelia could see his disbelief turn into anger as he took in what she said.

I was a fool, James said and rose from his seat.

Please, don't leave, Amelia pleaded. You should stay.

No, James said. I must go.

Amelia watched as James rode away. It was a hard blow, and Amelia hoped it would not take the young man too long to recover.

CHAPTER ONE

SIX YEARS LATER

Lord James Westcott had to make a decision: end the affair now or wait until after they dressed. He looked over at the woman sleeping at his side. They spent the better part of that afternoon in his bed, making love until they were both well spent and sated. Now her auburn hair was free of its pins. Her eyes were closed, and her lips formed a small peaceful smile.

Their affair began three months ago while her husband was away on business. Three months with the same woman was long enough for Lord Westcott. It had been a good three months, though, and Mrs. Thompson was an appreciative participant. She was like so many of the wives of Polite Society. They married for position and security but were neglected and starved of any kind of passion or excitement. James felt no guilt or remorse in giving them exactly what they needed... for a time.

Wake up, my dear, he said softly as he slipped out of bed and picked up his clothes.

Come back to bed, the woman purred. It cannot be time to leave already.

It is time to go, he insisted. It would not do for your husband to arrive and find you are not at home.

And if we were discovered? Mrs. Thompson asked and propped herself up on one arm. Would that be so terrible?

It would. Your husband would find himself a laughing stock, and you would be ruined. James said calmly as he finished dressing.

You would you not marry me? she asked incredulously. James leaned over and kissed her lightly.

Why would you want to trade one husband for another? Especially a husband that gives you everything you wish, does not misuse you and remains faithful, he said as he straightened his cravat in the mirror. He continued plainly, Whereas I would undoubtedly be unfaithful, and you would cause you immeasurable misery.

You are a bastard, she said with a wicked smile, but you are right. It would not be as much fun if we were married.

Come now, you would not want to miss the Henderson party, James reminded her. If you stay any longer you will not have time enough to dress.

Meredith Henderson is a dear, she commented as James helped her tighten her corset. I am sure Edward has never been unfaithful to her. Have you ever seen a couple so devoted? I profess it is outright unnatural, she remarked.

James noted her jealous tone and remained silent as she finished dressing.

Will you dance with me tonight? she asked and wrapped her arms around his neck.

Perhaps, James replied and dislodged her. Come now.

He accompanied her to down the stairs and out to her carriage. He held her hand in a gentlemanly fashion as she settled in the coach.

I hope you enjoyed your visit as much as I did, he said, not giving her the chance to ask the familiar When will I see you again?

James? she asked, confused by his indifferent tone.

The time has come for us to part ways, he told her quickly. It is for the best.

James closed the door of the coach, turned and walked down the path toward the house. He did not look back. He did not have to. It was the same look of astonishment he had seen on so many women before. It was an inevitable combination of surprise and indignation that could not be put into words.

Once in the house, he went directly to the study and poured himself a brandy. He held up his glass as if to toast the portrait of his father hanging over the mantle.

Marriages are arranged for land, wealth and to produce an heir. The old Earl's words came back to him. James knew he must marry someday. His was the last of true Westcott blood. It was his duty to see that the lineage did not end with him. There was still time for all that.

Will you be attending the Hendersons this evening? his valet Martin asked in his customary courteous tone when he entered the room.

Yes, James said as he stood by the fire and stared into the flames.

Will you want the blue or the black tonight? Martin asked.

James turned his head back just over his shoulder and answered, I think the blue will do nicely.

Will there be anything else?

James did not move or reply. He remained in front of the fireplace facing his father's portrait. Martin did not want to disturb his employer further and quietly left the room.

HARRIET GORDON SAT in her room alone. She postponed leaving for the ball as long as she could. Normally the idea of going to one of Henderson's events would be an occasion for excitement and anticipation. She and Meredith Henderson had been friends for as long as either of them could remember. If only the perpetual headache that lately plagued her would subside. The dull throbbing made performing the simplest task almost impossible.

It is time to come down, Miss, Franny, her ladies maid, told her. Your uncle and Mr. Croswell are waiting.

I'll be down in a moment, she answered.

Harriet put on her wrap and checked her appearance in the long length mirror. Outwardly there was no sign of the pain she felt. There were no longer any excuses she could use to avoid leaving.  She closed her door behind her and descended the steps.

Her uncle Matthew Gordon was waiting at the bottom of the stairs. Next to him stood the man he chose for her to wed: Robert Croswell.  From the difference in their ages and looks, Harriet would have never guessed the two men were friends.

Harriet loved her uncle. He had been an active member of the family as long as she could remember. For the past two years, since her mother’s death, he was her only family and her guardian. Mr. Gordon, a self-professed bachelor, was a very good looking man for his age. He was tall with a full head of pure white hair. Athletic in his youth, his body was still firm, and there were only a few lines at the corners of his green eyes. The goatee he sported gave him a devilish look, and to this day women flocked around him wherever he went.

Robert Croswell was a striking contrast to Gordon. At twenty-seven, he was not as tall as Gordon but lean with dark hair and eyes. There were a few occasions when Harriet caught him staring at her. It was an odd gaze. It was not one of fondness or admiration. It felt as if he studied her like a specimen under glass. It left her cold and uneasy. She felt no affection for him but promised her uncle she would endeavor to find some common ground with her betrothed.

Shall we go now? Croswell said and led the way out to the carriage. Once settled inside, Croswell continued, Are you still feeling unwell?

It is just a headache, Harriet replied, ignoring the irritation in his voice.

Mr. Croswell has suggested a shopping trip for you, Harriet, her uncle interjected. A new wardrobe would be in order for your coming nuptials. For both of you.

I will need a few things, I suppose, but I doubt an entire wardrobe will be necessary, she told them.

A few things? That is nonsense, my dear. When we are wed, we should be at the precipice of fashion. We will set the standard for all Society to follow, Croswell told her. Gordon cleared his throat, and Harriet did not miss the glaring look from Croswell to her uncle. We will have the latest fashions. Only the best will do.

Harriet has always been the frugal one in the family. Isn't that right, Niece? Gordon said in her defense.

Harriet did not answer him.

She is certainly an unusual female. Any other woman would be delighted to have a new wardrobe, Croswell told Gordon with a huff. Once we are married, she will understand how important it is for me to be accepted by the very best of Society's families.

Harriet remained silent. It would be useless to repeat her opinion of Society women. She thought most of them to be selfish and frivolous. Fortunately, the conversation moved to the merits of the new Member of Parliament, and she was not expected to participate. The men continued the conversation between themselves. Once again, Harriet felt her presence was unnecessary, just as she had so many other times since Croswell came into their lives.

JAMES ARRIVED AT THE Henderson home fashionably late and handed his coat and hat to a servant at the door. The Henderson home was much like any other house in the district. On the left side of the large foyer was a wide staircase which led up to the family rooms on the second floor. Above that were several guest rooms on the third floor. On the ground floor to the right was the library. Next to it was Edward Henderson's study. Past those rooms were the main gallery, the larger ballroom, parlor and dining room. The furniture and appointments were elegant, but not overly ornate. There was a simplistic order in the decor. The house very much reflected the couple’s personalities.

To look at Edward and Meredith Henderson you may not believe the two belonged together. Edward was tall well over six feet. He was not thin but gave the impression he could slip between the railings of the banister if he wished. Meredith, on the other hand, was just slightly over five feet tall with light brown hair and an average body. Her face was distinctive, slightly rounded, more Grecian than English. Her favorite pastime was planning events like the one this evening

Present for tonight’s festivities were not only the cream of London's Polite Society. A few visiting dignitaries from India in attendance as well. The main gallery held tables of food and drink for the pleasure of the guests. Tables and chairs were provided for the guests. They could enjoy the food, converse, or participate in a game of cards. The ballroom was filled with music. The musicians played from the balcony just above the large doors. The walls were lined with chairs for those not inclined to dance.

Several of the men crowded the parlor and talked of the impending wars. Others spoke of Napoleon, his insatiable quest for power and how he should be stopped. Dressed in their finest, the woman gathered in small groups to learn the latest gossip or comment on other women's apparel.

A few of the married females were James' ex-lovers, and for appearance sake, they smiled sweetly as he greeted them. Though he knew beneath their cordial manners, they would have been happier to see him run down by a coach. Still, even with his reputation, mothers with daughters of marriageable age viewed him like a fish to be caught and paraded them before him as bait. He wondered if they would be so anxious if they knew the truth of his family.

Lord Westcott, Mrs. Beatrice Ingraham greeted him and put her closed fan to his chest, it is good to see you again.

Mrs. Ingraham, the pleasure is mine, James said with a broad smile and a short bow. Where is Mr. Ingraham this evening?

He is tending to some tedious business or other abroad, she said and flipped her fan open. He will be gone for several weeks, she whispered behind her fan,

James smiled at the obvious invitation. It was not the first time Beatrice Ingraham, the young and pretty wife of the much older Mortimer Ingraham, vied for his attention. Now that the latest of his liaisons was over, perhaps it was time to pay a visit to the Ingraham house. It was the least he could do to help the lady overcome her loneliness.

If you are not otherwise occupied, perhaps we could have tea one afternoon, James suggested and boldly admired her figure.

Thursday afternoon would be perfect. I look forward to it, she said and closed her fan.

Until then... James bowed and watched her walk away.

Westcott, another voice called to him. Lord Westcott.

Lord Ketteridge, James answered. I thought you were in India.

I was. We just returned this week, Lord Ketteridge replied when he caught up with James. I will be leaving again at the end of the month. Before I leave, and when it is convenient, I should like to speak to you of a venture you may find interesting.

Perhaps I can call on you next week. If you will excuse me for now, James replied when he saw Meredith walk toward him.  He liked Lord Frances Ketteridge, but his ‘ventures’ usually lost money.

James, Meredith Henderson called to him from the crush. I am so pleased you are here.

She rushed toward him and curtsied when she reached him.

You know I would not miss one of your gatherings. I shall have to find a way to thank you for saving me from Lord Ketteridge. Where is Edward? he asked and looked into the crowd.

Right here, Edward Henderson said from behind him. Good to see you.

Edward put a hand on James' shoulder and turned to his wife.

I must borrow your favorite guest for a few minutes, my dear.

If you must, but see you do not keep him very long or I shall be very cross with you, Meredith said in jest to her husband.

I promise we will not be long, Edward told her and led James away from the crowd.

Edward asked with a knowing nod when out of the hearing of his wife, Will the Thompsons be joining us?

I am sure they will be here shortly, James answered calmly and took a drink offered by a passing servant. But I doubt Mrs. Thompson will be in much of a gay mood. Unfortunately, it was time to end our relationship.

I do not understand you, James, Edward confessed. You have one liaison after another. It is no way for a civilized man to live. You should find yourself a wife.

It is useless. You have the only woman worthy of fidelity, James remarked with a smile. So you see I am destined to be a bachelor to the end of my days.

You should be careful, Edward warned.

Do not worry on my account, Edward. There are still plenty of agreeable wives left, James told him and thought of the pretty Mrs. Ingraham.

I would not be so sure. Meredith tells me there is a great deal of talk about you. And the way gossip spreads, no husband will ever leave his wife unattended again, Edward said with a laugh.

Like James, Edward Henderson was a Noble by birth. Unlike James, he had the good sense to marry into a family of position and wealth. The fact that he loved his wife enhanced the match tenfold.

Apart from the wealth acquired by the match, Edward also possessed a keen mind for investments. It was under Edward's careful guidance that James turned the little money left after his father's death into enough to sustain more than just the appearance of prosperity. As his father so often said, "appearance is everything." It made him smile to think how many of his past mistresses confessed their coffers were nearly depleted.

Do you worry about your Meredith? James asked. 

Not at all, Edward replied. She already knows you too well to be taken in by that charm of yours. Mark my words. One of these days, someone will crack that façade, and you will be undone. I only hope to be there as a witness.

No lectures tonight, Edward, Meredith interrupted as she joined them. "I wish tonight to be as pleasant an evening as