Dance With Deception

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Tracy Goodwin

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Published Internationally by LBF Books, Imprint of Lachesis Publishing 1787 Cartier Court, RR 1, Kingston, Nova Scotia, B0P 1R0 Copyright © 2007 Tracy Goodwin Exclusive cover © 2007 Tina Adams Inside artwork © 2007 Carole Spencer All rights reserved. The use of any part of this publication reproduced, transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the publisher, Lachesis Publishing, is an infringement of the copyright law. A catalogue record for the print format of this title is available from the National Library of Canada ISBN 1-897370-31-8 A catalogue record for the Ebook is available from the National Library of Canada multiple ebook formats are available from www.lbfbooks.com ISBN 1-897370-32-6 Credit: Louise Bohmer, editor This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any person or persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental. The author and publisher recognize and respect any trademarks mentioned in this book by introducing such registered titles either in italics or with a capital letter.

Teaser Sebastian returned his hand to her neck. He stroked her creamy flesh as he lessened the kiss. By the time their lips parted, both were gasping for air, breathless from their shared passion. He held her on his lap, stroking her neck for an inexhaustible amount of time, listening to the last few droplets of rain now falling from the canopy of leaves above them. Gwen rested her head on his shoulder. Her previous courage to explore Sebastian’s mouth abated as anxiety and guilt over her lack of selfrestraint seeped in. She was fearful of what he must think of her. Ladies didn’t behave in such a manner; especially ladies betrothed to other men! “Why were you riding by yourself?” Sebastian asked, his voice interrupting her silent flogging. She turned to face him, certain her heated cheeks were a brilliant shade of pink. “I needed time away from my father and, since Tristan has gone to London, I went riding alone.” “Sounds very innocent.” Sebastian gave her a slight smile before his sarcasm set in. “You did, however, almost kill yourself maneuvering that hill.” It was time to admit the truth. She averted her gaze but only briefly. Her pride dictated she face him. “My father has arranged my betrothal and I have been unable to dissuade him. Being cooped up in our manor, listening to his blind devotion to Keir, the man he insists I marry … I felt

like I was going insane. I thought the only thing I could control was my horse and you witnessed how I mucked that up.” “Let me see if I understand this.” Sebastian caressed her shoulder as he spoke. “Your father wants you to wed a man named Keir?” Gwen nodded in agreement. “What’s his last name, dare I ask?” “Dunlop.” Sebastian feigned indignation. “Why would your father ever want you to marry a man with such a ridiculous name?” “It’s a Scottish name,” Gwen retorted. “That explains it.” He smirked. “Why does your father want you to marry him? And why is it that you don’t wish to marry him? All qualms about his name aside.” He’s not you. She bit the inside of her lip to avoid speaking the words. “He’s a long time friend of my father’s and Papa loves Keir like a son. I suppose that’s why he thinks it to be a splendid match. That and the fact that Keir is Scottish. My father is loyal to his ancestry. Did I mention Keir is an earl? I suppose that could also be a reason.” Sebastian’s brow creased. “Why the hurry to see you wed?” “Papa’s health has been deteriorating. It’s his wish to see me wed before his passing.” “It is a fine mess you have made for yourself, Miss MacAlistair.” Sebastian’s voice was calm, his gaze steady. “A Scottish earl fiancé and you sitting on an English duke’s lap.”

The heat in her cheeks intensified, spreading to her ears. “Perhaps,” he added in a low, husky voice, “here is where you ought to be.”

Acknowledgements Heartfelt thanks to LeeAnn Lessard for her friendship and unwavering support; to Carole Spencer for teaching me how to look at my work through an editor’s eyes, and to Brenda Harlen for helping me prepare for my nerve-wracking pitch.

Dedication For my husband, Greg. I am forever blessed to be loved by you.

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V{tÑàxÜ D 1845 Northamptonshire, England Feeling sorry for oneself was a trait Gwendolyn MacAlistair despised; however, on this particular evening she indulged. Earlier tonight, her father announced he was dying. Although his declaration alone was life altering, he hadn’t concluded there. Lachlan MacAlistair had come to the decision that he would see his daughter wed before his premature death. Gwen’s slippers tapped against the marble beneath her feet like a drumbeat until she emerged into the cool night air. The white taffeta fabric of her gown rustled against the soft spring breeze as she left a throng of animated members of the haut ton in her wake, proceeding in the opposite direction of the ballroom. She fingered the demure, colorless dress her father had insisted she wear, and an exasperated sigh escaped her lips. In comparison to the other women in attendance, clad in vibrant colors of the 1

Tracy Goodwin latest fashions, she felt like a child. Perceiving human shadows moving between the moonlit tree trunks, Gwen lifted her skirts and quickened her pace. She heard delicate female laughter turn into a smothered giggle and avoided looking in that direction, choosing instead to race toward the deserted end of the terrace. Her sanctuary. The farther she journeyed from the open terrace doors, the lighter the laughter and music sounded. The sweet scent of jasmine tickled her nose and Gwen inhaled deeply, the combination of soft music and soothing jasmine numbing her taut nerves. She was in no mood for celebrating, and her cheeks already ached from polite smiles at the fops who approached her in hope of dancing with her. She didn’t want to smile, laugh nor pretend to be happy. What she needed was a good, long cry. Having reached the balustrade at the far end of the terrace, Gwen peeled her white gloves from her fingers, then grasped the cool stone with her bare hands. Papa is dying. How could he be? She’d never detected any signs. And how could he insist she marry someone she neither knew nor loved? Of course she had voiced her opposition and her father had cut her down. He was too harsh. A nagging suspicion told her his mind was set, and she wouldn’t like his choice of a spouse. Gwen squeezed the balustrade, seeking comfort from the twinkling constellations. Never had she 2

Dance With Deception felt this confused or guilty. Why did she doubt her father; her dying father at that? “Enough of this self-pity!” She tore her gaze from the clear night sky. “For goodness sake, the least you can do is fulfill his dying wish.” But her inner voice screamed, I want more. Oh, to be young again; to have Mama alive and well; to spend her days frolicking with her brothers and their friends. The memory of her brothers’ friends brought her thoughts back to the ballroom tonight, and a pair of piercing sapphire eyes belonging to the Duke of Davenport. Sebastian was stunning. Gwen had no idea when she was younger how handsome he was, how thick and wavy his onyx hair was, or how enticingly indigo his eyes. Nor had she realized how his rugged features and his chiseled jaw made him appear wild and untamed against the refined gentlemen in the room. In that ballroom, it became clear to her the duke’s tall frame and muscular build made all the other men appear puny in comparison. Add to those features a title, large fortune, and bachelor status and the Duke of Davenport became the perfect catch for every unattached female. Or so she had assessed from the throngs of female admirers who had been parading around him in hope of catching his notice. Gwen’s thoughts centered on the duke’s expression in the ballroom. What was it about his gaze that made her feel flushed? Her cheeks grew 3

Tracy Goodwin warm just thinking about the possibilities. She shook her head and instead entertained the irony of the situation. Little did he know the woman he had stared at was the same boyish child who, along with her twin brother, used to shadow her eldest brother and the future duke on their jaunts. He hadn’t recognized her. There was no other explanation for his odd reaction. If he had, Gwen was certain he would have approached and joked with her, chucking her chin the way he had when she was a child. She smiled in remembrance of a particular afternoon when her eldest brother, Colin, had been annoyed with her. “No, Gwen, hunting is not for young ladies. Go home this instant,” Colin commanded. When she didn’t budge, Sebastian tried a different tactic. “Gwen,” he quizzed, “what will you do when it is time for you to marry and your betrothed doesn’t want his wife hunting and fishing?” Her reply, even at that young age of nine, had been defiant. “My husband will love me no matter what I do. Otherwise, I will not marry him.” Her smile waned. She had reached the age to marry and duty dictated she marry the man of her father’s choosing. A man she didn’t love. “Enough of this!” Gwen slapped the balustrade. The change of scenery had done nothing for her mood. It was past time she returned to the ballroom. Gathering a handful of her skirts, she rushed 4

Dance With Deception towards the same throng from which she had sought solitude just minutes before. As she rounded a corner, Gwen ran into a solid mass and was knocked to the ground. “Oh, good Lord!” Before she could gather her wits, she noticed the pant legs of a gentleman standing beside her. “I apologize,” she declared before raising her chin to catch a glimpse of the intruder. Her jaw slackened at the sight of the Duke of Davenport’s handsome face. “For what?” he quipped, brow arched. “Almost sending me flying, or for cursing like a drunken sailor?” A heat crept into her cheeks. Gwen steeled her shoulders before returning his stare. “Both as it seems my blasphemy has offended your demure sensibility.” Sebastian smiled at the sight of this beautiful yet rather disheveled woman sitting on a cloud of white skirts. “Would you mind helping me up?” She jarred him from his thoughts. “It’s not easy with these skirts.” He gave himself a mental shake, then offered her his hands. The mystery woman placed her hands in his and Sebastian noted with pleasure she wasn’t wearing gloves. Her skin was the softest he’d ever touched, like silk, and a wicked thought occurred to him. What would the rest of her body feel like? “Are you well?” Her gaze was fixed upon his. “You look a bit dazed.” 5

Tracy Goodwin He thought himself mad. Wasn’t it enough he’d shamelessly stared at this woman in the ballroom? Must he also act like a besotted fool when she was an arm’s length away? “Are you hurt?” he managed. Although not clever or witty, it wasn’t entirely foolish. The beauty shook her skirts, then inspected them for dirt. “It appears that I’ve only wounded my pride.” She gave him a faint smile before continuing. “I am fine, thank you, your grace. I’m afraid I wasn’t minding where I was heading.” Sebastian guided her to a nearby bench. She hesitated, glancing towards the ballroom before reaching a decision to stay. Once settled on the bench, she insisted, “There’s really no need to fuss. I’m fine.” “We haven’t been introduced,” Sebastian announced as he seized the moment and sat beside her. “We have not?” she said, her eyes dancing. If he didn’t know better, he’d say she was teasing him. “No. I’m sure I would remember.” He studied his companion, her expression unnerving him. Was this beauty another gold digger? He peered over his shoulder to ensure no mother was skulking behind a rose bush or lurking around a dark corner to pounce on him and demand he marry her daughter. With no greedy mother in sight, Sebastian returned his attention to the beauty beside him. She was eyeing him with a delightful expression, 6

Dance With Deception seeming quite amused. By what, he hadn’t yet discovered. “I would never forget your name, your grace. You are Sebastian Montgomery, ninth Duke of Davenport. I am a bit miffed that you could forget mine,” she replied with mock indignation. “I beg your pardon?” His attitude cooled as he surveyed her, looking once again into her dancing eyes for a sign, any sign, that his assumptions were wrong. “Your grace,” she began, her tone solemn, “you are far too young to suffer from senility, although I suppose it is possible.” The gorgeous sprite paused, appearing to revel in his confusion. “I must admit, the last time I saw you, you appeared to be much taller. Perhaps you are also shrinking?” Thunderstruck, Sebastian studied her beautiful visage, wracking his brain for a hint of who she might be. “To be honest, I am much taller now. Maybe that is why you appear shorter?” She paused and pressed a forefinger against her full, rosy lips. “Now that I think of it, our last meeting occurred when I was about ten or eleven. No doubt, I have changed considerably since then; therefore, I’m afraid I have an unfair advantage over you.” Sebastian blinked. Ten or eleven? But it couldn’t be … She grinned, clearly savoring every minute of his confusion. “I shall give you one more clue. Your skills with a pistol far outweighed mine, however, I 7

Tracy Goodwin bested you at archery.” Through the side of her mouth, she asked in a hushed tone, “Have you improved at archery?” “It can’t be.” His eyes widened. “Little Gwen MacAlistair?” She laughed. “Yes, well, ‘little Gwen’ is much taller now.” Little Gwen was much more of many things, but he snapped himself back from those impure thoughts, then shook his head in surrender. “You brat! You played some trick on me, didn’t you?” “I thought it only fitting after the many years of abuse I sustained from you and my eldest brother, your grace.” Gwen winked at him as she emphasized her last words. “Call me Sebastian. You always did.” She nodded in acceptance. “How are you, Sebastian? And your sister?” “Victoria is well and has blossomed into a beautiful young lady,” Sebastian replied, proud of the woman Victoria had become. “Sebastian,” Gwen’s expression softened. “I was sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. We’ve been living at our estate in Scotland, and I am afraid I heard news of the duchess’ death only after we returned to England, not quite two days ago. Please accept my deepest condolences. The duchess was a dear woman.” “Thank you, Gwen.” The pain from his mother’s passing was sharp as a blade, even after all this time. As if sensing his grief, she leaned toward him. 8

Dance With Deception “You never answered my question. Have you improved at archery?” “I’m afraid not,” he said in a dire tone. “And you? Have your skills with a pistol improved? The last time I saw you aim one, you nearly shot me in the shoulder.” Gwen gaped at him. “I did not. That’s ridiculous.” “Ahem.” Sebastian crossed his arms over his chest to make a statement. “Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten.” She narrowed her gaze, “Forgotten what?” “Allow me to restore your memory. I recall you, a pistol, and a ricochet bullet.” Gwen snapped her hand over her mouth and lowered it slowly. “I had forgotten about that incident.” “Have you shot anyone since then?” He arched his brow, his manner teasing. Sebastian enjoyed having the upper hand. “Of course not!” Her smile widened. “I gave up the sport for the health and safety of my brothers’ friends.” Sebastian howled with laughter, an uncommon sound for most of London. He asked, “How are your brothers?” “Tristan is wonderful and should be attending this evening. He’s an attorney if you can believe it! Colin, on the other hand ….” Gwen wrinkled her brow. “Colin is traveling abroad. I’m sad to say I haven’t heard from him in a long time.” “I am sorry to hear that.” 9

Tracy Goodwin She shook her head, as if tossing aside such unhappy thoughts. “I’ll let you in on a little secret, Sebastian. I detested hunting.” “You didn’t like hunting?” He feigned indignation. “It’s true.” Gwen nodded. “I always felt sorry for the poor creatures. I realized after much deliberation that I only followed you on those outings to prove a girl could do anything her eldest brother could.” He straightened. “I’m shocked. Why, between all the noise you made traipsing through the woods in order to scare the animals, and all the attempts you made at drawing our attention from our targets, I could have sworn you adored the sport.” Gwen smiled again. And so did he. Sebastian couldn’t remember being so unreserved with anyone other than his mother, sister, and two members of their extended family – his closest friend Alexander Morley and longtime friend of his mother, the Viscountess Fiona Weston. In truth, Sebastian refused to trust anyone outside that small circle. He did so for the same reason he avoided love at all cost. His first memory as a child was of his father hitting his mother. For years, Sebastian watched his father abuse the dear woman until one day, Sebastian was old enough to protect her. Although he was still quite small and lacking in strength, he did not lack conviction. Grabbing a fireplace poker, he struck his father’s knees with as much force as his small frame could muster, 10

Dance With Deception threatening to stab him through the heart if he ever laid another hand on his mother. He had expected to feel his father’s wrath, however the man appeared to be proud of him. Violence seemed to be all his father admired. And the revelation sickened Sebastian. On that day, the future Duke of Davenport vowed never to fall in love, certain the emotion led to heartache and humiliation. He also decided never to trust for much the same reason. Gwen shifted and Sebastian suspected she was about to excuse herself. Although he knew not why, he didn’t want their encounter to end. “Can I get you a glass of champagne?” he offered. She shook her head as she rose, tugging her gloves back on. “No, thank you. I must return to my father.” “It was delightful bumping into you.” He rose, speaking with a mischievous grin. Her reply was sweet laughter, tinkling through the night air. He kissed the back of her hand. “Will you save a dance for me this evening?” Sebastian asked, straightening. “I’d like that.” She turned, then walked away from him, a cloud of white floating back to the ballroom, while an unknown emotion tugged at Sebastian’s heart. Was it disappointment? He had always acquired anything he wanted, with the one notable exception being the passing of 11

Tracy Goodwin his mother. What he wanted most on this particular evening was to spend more time with Gwendolyn MacAlistair. His attraction to her astonished him. Temptation had nothing to do with it, or did it? Her family had been friends of his until they’d moved to the Highlands. Wasn’t he simply rekindling an old acquaintance? Sebastian’s heart pounded within his chest. He didn’t remember when he had last noticed it. Tonight, something inside of him had awakened. Of that, he was certain. His gaze continued to find Gwen in the ballroom. He watched as a good-looking gentleman walked up to her and kissed her hand. The sight made him irritable. He cheered as the man withdrew before steering toward another eligible woman. It was obvious Gwen declined the man’s invitation to dance and it thrilled him. Gwendolyn’s father whispered in her ear, and they left their small group. Sebastian excused himself from the throng of women surrounding him, including an intrigued younger sister whose eyes had widened, and headed toward the pair. He gnashed his teeth in frustration as several acquaintances waylaid him. After attempting unsuccessfully to break free from one of his mother’s plump friends, he groaned in defeat as Gwen and her father proceeded toward the exit. She had left without sharing a dance with him. Why did he feel as if he had been horsewhipped? There were many women he could dance with. Hell, 12

Dance With Deception he’d just left a group of them. But Sebastian only wanted to dance with one. His mood remained sour for the rest of the evening. **** Gwen traveled in the coach, with lines of concern etched in her forehead. “Are you sure you’re feeling all right, Papa? Was the ball too much for you?” “Stop fussing, Gwendolyn!” Lachlan scolded. He straightened the pleats of his trousers before adding, “Please don’t worry. Being out amongst old friends tired me, that’s all. As you are well aware, my old body is not what it used to be.” Uncertain how to respond, sorrow washed over Gwen in a rush. She let him be and stared out the carriage window, a tear drifting down her cheek. Wiping it away with her gloved hand, she tried to push aside all of the sadness by concentrating on one happy memory from this evening’s events. A vision of Sebastian filled her mind causing her heart to leap with excitement. He looked dashing and, for the first time in her life, she understood the full force of what fluttering feelings an attractive man could cause in a young lady. During the brief time she’d spent with him, she had felt carefree. It was an emotion she hadn’t experienced in a very long time. Gwen glanced at her father. Until tonight, she hadn’t realized how tiring it was to work every waking hour at pleasing him, struggling to gain his 13

Tracy Goodwin acceptance and his love. As she listened to the clip-clop of the horses’ hooves, she sank further in her seat and stared out the carriage window, still fighting the maelstrom of emotions that threatened to overtake her. Turning again, she studied her father’s profile. For so many years, she’d excused his callous behavior, believing it was from grief over his wife’s death. What if her brothers were correct about their father? She suspected her father was keeping something from her. Had he already chosen her suitor? Gwen sensed a storm brewing, one she couldn’t hide from. A chill crept through her and Gwen clutched her cape tighter. If her brothers were correct about their father … She shuddered at the possibility, convinced it would destroy them. Dear God, please protect my fragile family.

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V{tÑàxÜ E Gwen awoke from a restless night shortly after sunrise. Without hesitation, she donned her black riding breeches and white shirt, then pulled her hair back with a white satin ribbon. Bright sunshine streamed through the windows of the morning room where she found her brother, who had arrived around midnight. “Good morning,” she spoke in a singsong voice before wrapping her arms around his neck. “Did I tell you last night how much I’ve missed you? It is quite boring without you.” Tristan placed his newspaper upon the table. “I missed you too, Gwen.” “It’s a perfect day for riding.” She squeezed his shoulders, then reached for the newspaper he had just discarded and skimmed the front page. Her twin viewed her over the rim of his coffee cup. “You look like you didn’t get much sleep last night. Are you certain that you’re up for our ride?” “Me, too tired to ride? Absolutely not.” She folded the newspaper and placed it on the table before straightening her shoulders, her expression 15

Tracy Goodwin one of self-confidence. “Are you afraid I’ll best you?” “Me, afraid?” he mocked, leaning forward with his elbows on the table. “Absolutely not.” Gwen gave her brother an impish smile. “Good. Then I’ll race you.” She dashed into the hallway, sprinting out of the house toward the stables. “That’s not fair!” her brother called out. By the time Tristan exited the house, Gwen was well ahead of him. Despite his longer legs, he arrived last at the stables. She leaned against the structure, waiting for him with her hands on her hips. “What took you so long?” Tristan fought to fill his lungs with the fresh morning air. “I’ll have you know that was not fair.” “I found it to be quite fair,” Gwen replied with a devilish smile. “Although we can race again if you’d like. Are you up for it?” “Oh, no you don’t!” Her brother bent over, his arms resting on his hips, still recovering. “I’ll race you some other time. Something tells me I must train beforehand.” She giggled. “Come along, old man, Rory is preparing the horses. That will give you a few minutes to catch your breath.” “You really are a scamp. Do you know that?” Tristan reached over and yanked the ribbon out of his sister’s hair, dangling it just out of her reach. “Give that back!” She reached for the ribbon and failed. 16

Dance With Deception “This? You mean to say you can’t reach it?” Tristan measured six feet and towered over his sister. Recognizing defeat when she saw it, Gwen stood in front of him and crossed her arms over her chest. “Tristan,” she teased. “It has just dawned on me where I learned my wicked ways.” He clucked his tongue. “Touché.” He rumpled her hair before he handed her the piece of ribbon. Their mares seemed to be as eager as they were to go riding on this particular morning. It truly was a beautiful day. Fluffy white clouds accentuated the bright blue sky as chirping birds soared, exercising their independence. Gwen raced her brother to a hill that overlooked their family estate, by using the same route they had taken as children. When they reached the top, they skillfully dismounted their horses. Tristan tied their reins around the centuries old trunk of a leafy tree. “Remember what we used to call this spot when we were younger?” he quizzed. “Hidden Hill.” She grinned, kicking a fallen leaf with her boot. This had been their secret place, their refuge. They had no such escape in Scotland. A horse whinnied, drawing Gwen’s attention away from her leaf. She watched as the magnificent animal bent his head before gnawing on the lush grass that blanketed the earth. Tristan’s tone turned boastful. “Father never knew this is where we spent our days.” 17

Tracy Goodwin Gwen surveyed the grounds before them. Although familiar, it appeared much different through adult eyes. Their lives had changed so much since departing England. Too much. She kneeled, then plucked a long piece of grass before shredding it with her fingernails. “Are you all right?” Tristan asked, lines of concern etched in his brow. Gwen took great pains to sound cheerful. “I’m fine.” “I know you better than that. You look like you didn’t sleep a wink last night.” “Are you trying to tell me I look dreadful?” Gwen did her best to appear affronted. “Some gentleman you are!” Her brother shook his head. “You know me well enough to know that I am not deterred by an offhanded remark. And lest you forget, I know you well enough to detect that something is wrong.” She squinted in the bright sunlight, her gaze spanning the lush lawns before them. “It’s being here, I suppose. This is where we spent so many happy years with Mama and Colin. I miss them more when I’m here.” He studied her and Gwen avoided his gaze. “There’s something else.” Tristan sat beside her. “What aren’t you telling me?” Gwen focused her attention on a butterfly with glorious yellow and black wings, resting on a wildflower. 18

Dance With Deception “As you know, Papa has been very weak. He is speaking of his impending death more often,” she finally admitted. Tristan’s tone hardened. “You can’t listen to a thing he says, Gwen. You know he doesn’t say nor do anything without an ulterior motive.” “I know no such thing.” Her tone was patient, as if she were speaking to a child. “For heaven’s sake, Gwen! When will you open your eyes?” An aggravated sigh escaped her. “Papa knew how you’d react. This is precisely why he doesn’t want me discussing this with you.” “Discussing what?” he demanded. Gwen steeled herself for another argument. “Father told me yesterday that it is his dying wish to see me wed.” “I knew it!” “It’s not his fault that his health is deteriorating.” She raised her hands in the warm air. “Papa can’t help being ill.” Tristan took a deep breath, as if steadying himself. “Is there someone in your life I’m not aware of?” Gwen felt as though he’d boxed her in the ears. She gaped at him. “Are you being courted, Gwen?” he insisted, his tone impatient. She rolled her eyes. “Of course not! Don’t be absurd.” “Why do you find that notion so inconceivable?” Tristan stared at her with great 19

Tracy Goodwin intensity. “The best reason may be that no man has ever shown interest in me.” She admitted, shredding another piece of grass. “Were we attending the same ball last night?” Gwen knew from her brother’s forceful tone he wasn’t waiting for an answer, so she remained silent. He did not disappoint her. “When I arrived at the Stockton’s ball, I was greeted by at least a half a dozen eligible bachelors asking about you.” “They were curious.” She shrugged her shoulders. “Many haven’t seen me in ages and most have never met me. That always invites interest. It’s temporary.” “Dearest sister, you have much to learn about my gender.” He leaned back against the thick tree trunk as if his knowledge was vast. “How many offers to dance did you receive last night?” Gwen bit her lower lip as she pondered the question. She turned down most of her offers, except for Sebastian’s. Her heart sank as she was reminded of what she missed with him. Remembering that her brother wanted an answer, she fibbed. “Not many.” Tristan arched his black brow. She knew his expression all too well. He was challenging her just like he always did. And it infuriated her. “I suppose you want the absolute truth?” She tossed the mutilated blade of grass onto the ground. 20

Dance With Deception He grinned, further irritating her with his confidence. “Fine! I probably received five offers to dance and since I know where you are leading me with all of these questions, I shall save us both further aggravation and tell you that I didn’t dance with anyone.” Gwen flayed her arms in the air. “There. I danced with not a one.” Tristan’s tone was gentle, calming. “Why not?” Disarmed by his sudden tenderness, her expression softened. “You know why. I didn’t want to leave Papa.” “Gwen,” Tristan took her hand in his, “he was well enough to attend the party and to stand there and reminisce with his old acquaintances. He sure as hell was healthy enough for you to dance with eligible men … had you accepted their offers.” She opened her mouth to protest, but Tristan shook his forefinger. “I’ll have you know that if Father wasn’t at your side the entire time protecting his little sheep, you would have received many more offers to dance.” Her jaw dropped. It was the encouragement he needed. “Father hasn’t allowed you to be a young woman, Gwen. You should have friends, dance at balls, and you should have had a proper coming out in London, like the rest of those young ladies in that ballroom last night.” Gwen shook her head. “I don’t blame Papa for any of that and neither should you. It was difficult for him after Mama’s death.” 21

Tracy Goodwin “It was difficult for all of us.” His voice was rich with emotion. “The difference is that we took care of each other while Father only looked after himself.” Tristan glanced at his stallion and watched as the animal scratched the earth with his hooves. “What else did Father say about his plans for your marriage? Does he have someone chosen for you?” “No, Papa said he hadn’t chosen anyone yet.” “Thank God for that,” Tristan said, releasing a loud sigh of relief. He rubbed the knot of tension at the back of his neck. “Do you believe him?” Her silence was his answer. “What will you do if he has?” he asked. His alarmed expression told Gwen he already suspected her response. “I’d have no choice but to marry the man he’s chosen for me.” Her brother snorted. “Don’t you dare patronize me, or presume to tell me that I have a choice.” Gwen stood, marched toward her horse, then swung around to face him. “We may be twins, Tristan, but we certainly don’t share the same place in society.” Her brother cringed, and rightly so. As an attorney, he knew the law all too well. “Never forget, dear brother,” she continued as she balled her hands into tight fists. “I can’t vote, own land, attend university, or enjoy most of the other freedoms you take for granted.” Tristan stood, then reached for her. “I’m sorry,” he said in a sincere tone. Gwen pulled away from him, not wanting his 22

Dance With Deception pity. “Don’t you think I objected? Papa and I had a row and I upset him, which wasn’t at all good for his health. In the end, he reminded me that it’s my duty ….” She clamped her mouth shut. She felt disloyal telling anyone, even her brother, how much she dreaded performing this particular duty. Gwen had always expected a marriage that consisted of love and mutual respect. She longed to express her own opinions, to be her husband’s intellectual equal at a time when a woman’s duty was to look pretty on his arm. A childhood memory seized her. As a young lady in Scotland, she had described to her duenna what she expected in her husband. I want a husband who will love me more than all the stars in the heavens and who will hang the moon for me if I asked him. Her governess had laughed, insisting such a man didn’t exist. The woman’s words stung more than any others Gwen had heard. With the morning’s frivolity long gone, the siblings rode back to the manor in silence. Upon returning home, they joined their father for breakfast in the dining room. “How are you feeling this morning, Papa?” Gwen asked as she strode to the sideboard to serve herself. “I feel fine at the moment.” Her father’s breezy tone turned steel edged. “I dare say, Tristan, I was surprised to see you last night. I didn’t think you’d 23

Tracy Goodwin be joining us.” Tristan changed the subject, turning it back on his father. “The trip from Scotland would have tired many healthy men, Father, yet I dare say you appear none the worse for it. As a matter of fact, you appear healthier than most men.” “I’m not like most men.” Lachlan shot his son a warning glare. When his daughter was seated next to him at the breakfast table, Lachlan turned to her. “The Earl of Stratton had business in town the day before yesterday.” Her hand stilled in the process of spooning her clotted cream. She pushed the delicate porcelain bowl aside. “What would bring him to England?” She forced her voice to sound casual as a tight knot settled in her stomach. “He is very fond of you, Gwendolyn.” Tristan muttered something under his breath. Gwen began to feel queasy. “It is you Keir is fond of, Papa.” She repeated a silent prayer. Please, not Keir. He was their neighbor in Scotland. He was also her father’s constant companion. Lachlan had treated Keir more like a son than his own. Keir was the reason her eldest brother, Colin, had deserted them. Please, God, don’t let it be Keir. “Keir has made his intentions clear.” Her father’s voice sounded far away. Tristan threw his fork down with a loud clink. “Please tell me you’re not considering that fop as 24

Dance With Deception Gwen’s suitor.” “This doesn’t involve you, Tristan,” Lachlan warned before returning his attention to his daughter. “Keir and I have come to an agreement. You will be married by the end of next month.” “I don’t understand.” Gwen felt as if the room was spinning, her heart pounding like a drumbeat in her ears. “You told me just last night that you hadn’t made a decision.” “Well, I …” Her father shifted in his seat as if he was uncomfortable. “I thought it was best for you at the time. I told you that I want you settled before—” “Enough of your impending death!” A vein throbbed in Tristan’s neck as he continued. “What did you tell him, Father?” “I told him that I consider him to be like a son.” “At last.” Tristan pounded his fist against the table. “That is the first truthful word I’ve heard from you this morning!” Gwen’s voice shook. “I don’t want to marry him, Papa.” “I’ve already accepted the offer. It’s a handsome match.” Her father took a bite of his bacon, indicating their conversation was over. “Don’t you even care that she doesn’t love the man?” Tristan’s voice erupted. Lachlan wiped his mouth with his linen napkin. “It’s settled. There’s no need to raise your voice.” Tristan’s fist slammed against the mahogany table again, this time with more force. Silverware, china, and crystal clattered; the sound almost as 25

Tracy Goodwin violent as his tone. “Why are you forcing her into this? You know damned well I would provide for her after your death.” “My decision is final. Your sister knows what’s expected of her.” Gwen’s penetrating stare turned from her father to her brother. Unshed tears welled in her at the sight of Tristan’s handsome features contorted with rage. Her brother’s tone was unrelenting. “She has done everything to please you and you are taking advantage of that.” “I am her father and I know what’s best for her,” Lachlan countered. “Since when?” Tristan pressed his palms against the table. “You never made the time to get to know her, to get to know any of us. You are the last person who’d know what’s best for her.” Tristan’s gaze shifted from his father’s stern visage to his sister. “Mother would not approve of this.” “Your mother is dead, boy.” Lachlan’s face grew purplish. “Your memories of her are idealistic at best!” Tristan arose from his chair with such force, it toppled backward. It hit the floor with a loud thud. “Mother loved us. I’ve never been able to say the same about you!” He apologized to his sister, then stormed out. Gwen stood to follow him. “Tristan, wait!” “Sit down.” Her father’s tone was low and dangerous. “You and I need to make preparations.” 26

Dance With Deception Her ears rang from the clanking of cutlery and china. She grabbed the back of her chair to steady herself as her gaze locked with her father’s. “I don’t want to marry Keir, Papa.” “You will marry him regardless.” His response was curt. Gwen noticed his hands on the tabletop, clenched into tight fists. “We have already discussed this. Need you upset me again and cause me another relapse?” Chilled by her father’s heartless rebuff, Gwen turned away from him. His voice was dangerous. “I’ll let you go upstairs only after I am assured that you know what’s expected of you.” “I know what you expect,” she whispered, blinking back the tears that were brimming. Don’t let him see you cry. She fled to the sanctuary of her bedchamber and slammed the door, wishing she could just as easily shut out the pain she was feeling. It wasn’t until Gwen turned the lock that she released the flood of tears her pride wouldn’t allow her to shed in front of her father. In less than one day, her life had been turned upside down. She was certain it would never be the same. Keir Dunlop? Gwen crossed to her four-poster bed, then collapsed atop the fluffy mattress. Her body began to wrack with sobs. Why? Dear God, why?

27

V{tÑàxÜ F Gwen awoke the next morning but didn’t join her father for breakfast. Instead, she sat on a cushioned chaise in her bedchamber contemplating her future. It looked bleak. To disobey her father would scandalize their family, not to mention cause his health to deteriorate further and possibly hasten his impending death. Why do you care about him at all? She despised herself for thinking such a horrid thing; yet her brother’s tirade wasn’t far from her thoughts, nor was the memory of her father’s recent actions. Both showed her father in a different light – one that she didn’t like. A knock at the door stirred her. Her maid, Jane, entered the room carrying a small calling card. “Good afternoon, miss.” Jane’s tone was cheerful as she handed the calling card to her mistress. Gwen read it, twice. Victoria Montgomery had come to see her. She rushed to her wardrobe, then flung open 28

Dance With Deception the doors, deciding something cheerful was needed to bolster her spirits. After tracing her slim fingers over a rainbow of colors and fabrics, she removed a pale yellow gown with a square neck, wide sleeves, and a tartan bow around the waist. “This will do,” she murmured. Jane smiled. “Very pretty dress, miss. You’ll look like a ray of sunshine.” The thought of her sleepless night struck Gwen like a bolt of lightening. She sprinted to her mirror and her reflection caused her to moan aloud. She turned to her maid with a pleading look. “Please, Jane, help me look decent. Quick!” In only a short time, Jane had done wonders for Gwen’s appearance and mental state. By the time Gwen entered the drawing room, she felt ready to take on the world. Sunlight streamed through the windows making the room feel warm and inviting while the plants near the windows thrived. Gwen held fond memories of this room from her childhood. She remembered playing with her dolls among the thriving plants as she pretended they were trekking through a leafy jungle adventure. Even on the coldest of days, the room held its cozy appeal and represented a little bit of spring in the dead of winter. She found Victoria standing in front of the vast panes of glass surveying the lush lawns before her. The young woman turned and Gwen noted her eyes were a deep azure. Much like Sebastian’s. 29

Tracy Goodwin Gwen’s heart skipped a beat every time she remembered him. Because so much had changed since the Stockton’s ball, she found herself clutching to her happy memories of their conversation. She curtsied and spoke in a gentle tone. “Lady Montgomery, it is a pleasure to see you.” “The pleasure is all mine, Miss MacAlistair, however,” Victoria paused before suggesting with a devilish grin, “Please call me Victoria.” “A kindred spirit, I see, for I insist you call me Gwen.” Gwen responded with a wink. She liked her guest instantly. Conversation was easy, as if they had been close friends for years. After tea was served, Victoria sat on the floral sofa and asked, “Do you like riding?” “I love it, always have.” Gwen carried her teacup to the cushioned sage chaise that faced her guest before adding, “I was quite a tomboy as a child.” “You?” Victoria studied her. “I can hardly believe it.” “It’s true. You were too young at the time to remember, but the duke can attest to it. My twin brother and I trailed our eldest brother and yours incessantly.” Her guest leaned forward. “Oh, please tell me what Sebastian was like.” “Let’s see.” Gwen narrowed her eyes in thought. “He was most competitive. So was Colin.” “Your older brother?” “Yes. The two of them would always try to 30

Dance With Deception outdo each other; however, both were gracious in defeat.” “Defeat?” Victoria’s eyes widened. “I can’t imagine Sebastian being unsuccessful at anything.” Gwen lowered her voice to a whisper, as if she were imparting a secret. “Neither your brother or mine liked it when I beat them at a sport.” “You?” Her guest’s expression was one of disbelief. “You beat them, really?” Gwen nodded in affirmation. “Do tell.” “Colin taught me archery and forever rued the day.” Gwen smiled. “Both young men were beside themselves to watch a little girl hitting the target more often than they did.” Victoria laughed at this different view of her brother. Gwen continued to impart her childhood antics to her guest, whose smile widened with every tale. When the hour grew late, Victoria stood in readiness to leave. “Join me tomorrow for a ride. Our grounds are exquisite this time of year. Please say you’ll come.” “I’d love to,” Gwen announced, deciding the excursion was the perfect distraction from her betrothal predicament. **** Promptly at two the following afternoon, Gwen’s carriage rolled onto the well-kept drive of the Montgomery estate, known as Kellington Manor. 31

Tracy Goodwin It came to a halt in front of the main house; a massive spectacle of brick and limestone with wide windows accentuated by blooming red pelargoniums in flower boxes. She descended the steps of her carriage, then shook her skirts before studying the impressive structure. It was the first time Gwen had seen it, as she was too young to attend the parties the late duke and duchess hosted. Her mother once described the main house to her after attending a ball there and it looked even more magnificent than her narrative. Gwen climbed the grand stone steps that led to the massive oak door, then reached for the brass knocker. As she waited for entrance, she smoothed her midnight blue riding habit. She’d chosen her attire because it reminded her of Sebastian’s azure eyes. Try as she might, she couldn’t get thoughts of him out of her mind. In truth, she didn’t want to. A stoic, gray-haired butler opened the door and motioned her in. He retrieved Gwen’s hat, gloves, and riding crop, then led her into the magnificent library. The opulent room featured rich forest green carpeting, emerald and gold wing back chairs and a matching sofa, while mahogany shelves housing thousands of books covered the walls. Gwen’s gaze scanned the crowded shelves for titles as her fingers itched to uncover what literary treasures rested upon them. She tilted her head upward to the tops of the tall bookshelves. 32

Dance With Deception What she saw was awe-inspiring. The painted ceiling mirrored a bright spring sky with its pale blue background and white, wispy clouds. Gwen had never seen anything like it. So captivated was she that she failed to notice the gilded desk that sat in the far corner of the room. “Excuse me, your grace,” the butler articulated, “Lady Victoria gave instructions that I show Miss MacAlistair into the library. I apologize for disturbing you.” Gwen’s heartbeat quickened. Sebastian is here! Her attention snapped from the ceiling to scanning the room for a glimpse of him. He looked even more handsome now than in his evening finery. “This way, miss.” The gray haired man motioned to the door. “The parlor has a lovely view of the grounds.” Sebastian glanced above the rims of his reading spectacles and watched as his butler turned on his heels in an attempt to lead Gwen to another room. “That’s all right, Winston.” He rose and removed his spectacles before tossing them onto the desk. His panther like strides breaching the gap between them. “Please advise Victoria that her guest has arrived.” The butler nodded and left. Sebastian bowed and kissed the back of Gwen’s hand. The touch of his lips and the warmth of his breath sent waves of heat throughout Gwen’s entire 33

Tracy Goodwin body. She soon realized she was holding her breath and silently instructed herself to breathe. Sebastian straightened, then motioned to the velvet sofa behind her. Intoxicated by the scent of his woodsy cologne, Gwen’s appreciative gaze lingered over his visage. A stray strand of his black, wavy hair hung haphazardly above one of his piercing indigo eyes and Gwen fought the urge to brush it off his face. She realized she was staring at him and shook her head to clear her thoughts. Although her gaze wandered about the room, she yearned to study Sebastian. She was sinful! His velvet voice stirred her from her thoughts. “It’s nice to see you again, Gwen.” “The pleasure is mine, Sebastian.” He smiled at her. That simple gesture sent shock waves through her body. Gwen fought for composure while a new emotion surged through her … desire. After clearing her throat, she trusted her voice at last. “This room is exquisite. I can see why you use it as your office.” Sebastian sat in the velvet chaise that faced the sofa and contemplated how he should respond. In truth, he never worked in the library, except for today, when his sister convinced him that he had been spending too much time in his office and insisted upon a change of scenery. A sibling argument ensued, however. Since Victoria seemed so concerned, he complied. 34

Dance With Deception Now he understood his sister’s odd request and smiled at her cunning. Chip off the old block. “Normally, I work in my office however, today ….” Sebastian paused, searching for the appropriate words as he pushed his hair away from his eyes. “A situation arose that brought me into the library. Victoria must not have realized that when she instructed Winston to bring you in here.” In a pig’s eye she must not have realized! “I wanted to thank you for sending your sister to see me yesterday,” Gwen said. “She is delightful.” His sister went to see her? What was Victoria up to? Sebastian had thought of no one but Gwen since the Stockton’s ball. Did his sister suspect that? How could she? He was always careful to hide his emotions. Deciding to play along, he remarked, “I’m glad you and my sister had the chance to get to know one another.” “As am I.” Gwen smiled. “Was everything all right when you left the ball?” Sebastian leaned forward. “I was told that your father suffered from exhaustion.” “Papa was quite tired but is better now.” Gwen turned her gaze towards the papers scattered atop the gilded desk. “What were you working on?” He studied her profile. She was a portrait of serenity and more radiant than he remembered. “I am having problems with one of my estates,” 35

Tracy Goodwin he began. “The estate manager wasn’t doing his job very well and I was forced to release him. I must straighten out the finances and carry his work load until I find a replacement.” Sebastian expected her eyes to glaze over. No woman, including his sister, was ever interested in his work. However, as he spoke, Gwen seemed riveted by his every word. She responded with a string of questions. In turn, he replied as best he could until the butler interrupted them, handing him a note from Victoria. He read her missive, then met Gwen’s gaze. “My sister sends her apologies. She has come down with a cold and won’t be able to ride with you today.” “Oh, how dreadful.” Gwen’s tone was one of concern. “Should you check on her?” “She doesn’t wish for me to disturb her.” Sebastian handed the parchment to his guest. He found his sister’s blatant attempt at matchmaking appalling. Gwen read the note, then folded it before handing it back to him. “I wish your sister a speedy recovery. I’ll come back another time when she is in better health.” Sebastian had wanted more time with Gwen at the Stockton’s Ball, yet stood by as he watched her walk away. He refused to make the same mistake twice. “Allow me to show you the grounds,” he suggested. When she didn’t jump at the idea, he added, “It is a beautiful day for riding.” 36

Dance With Deception “That’s a very kind offer.” Gwen’s tone was sweet. “But, I don’t mind waiting for Victoria.” Society dictated Gwen should not go riding with him without a chaperone. To do so would be inappropriate and, if discovered, it could damage both of their reputations. It was a risk Sebastian was willing to take. “You’d be saving me from my work,” he argued. Gwen narrowed her eyes. It was obvious she remained unconvinced. “It’s true. I’ve been working diligently for days, my single respite being the Stockton’s ball and,” he added with a shrewd grin, “you saw what lack of rest I got there.” “Ah, yes, the life of a duke. No rest at parties. Work all the time. What a shame,” Gwen mocked. Her tone grew serious. “It would be improper for me to go riding with you without a chaperone, Sebastian, and you know that.” “I’ve always found propriety far overrated. So have you, otherwise you wouldn’t call me by my given name.” He arched his brow in challenge. Gwen bowed her head in a conciliatory gesture. He viewed her with delight. She never could resist a dare. And so he issued one. “When you were younger, I dare say you were never this cautious.” He paused, surveying her response. “Are you afraid my riding ability will put yours to shame?” Her eyes sparkled, however she remained silent. 37

Tracy Goodwin Sebastian continued. “I would understand if you don’t want to accompany me. I wouldn’t want to embarrass you with my superior equestrian ability.” “That’s not fair,” she argued, albeit in a playful manner. The expression on her face told him he had indeed convinced her. “I suppose we could ride once more, for memory’s sake.” Gwen’s heart-shaped lips curved into an impish grin. “However, there is one condition.” “What might that be?” “You must promise not to hide my riding crop, gloves, hat, or anything else I may deem useful. And,” she added with a jaunty smile, “that includes my horse. I remember the pranks you and Colin pulled on Tristan and I.” His tone was teasing. “What makes you think I would keep that promise? If I were to make such a promise, that is.” “Because I am old enough to hide your riding crop or your horse, if I so desired.” “All right then,” Sebastian rose and extended his arm to her, “but only because Tristan isn’t here. If he were, all bets would be off.” “Then it’s a good thing he’s not here for I would taunt him, as well.” Gwen stood, then looped her arm through his. “A partner in crime, I see.” They proceeded to the foyer where the butler handed Gwen her accessories. She and Sebastian headed for the stables. 38

Dance With Deception As they cantered about the grounds, Sebastian pointed out landmarks and recalled memories. He showed her where he had built a fort when he was a young boy and where Victoria had climbed a tree and fallen. He also showed Gwen the small, rustic chapel on his estate where he attended private family masses and the majestic lake where he went swimming. It was at that lake, surrounded with colorful wildflowers, that they dismounted. Sebastian tied their horses to a nearby tree so the majestic animals could drink from the cool, clear water. Water lilies lay atop the calm surface of the deep blue-green lake while beneath swam several schools of small gold fish. “Sebastian,” Gwen whispered. “I think I’ve seen heaven.” His gaze was unswerving as he watched her – a vision in blue, rambling amidst the colorful bluebells, daffodils, periwinkles, and other various flowers that dotted the landscape. To his complete surprise, he found her more beautiful than any of the flowers she walked amongst. Sebastian realized that he, too, had seen heaven. Gwen walked to the edge of the lake, then bent down, scooping up a water lily. As she did so, a frog jumped from the waxy green leaf onto the grass. She squealed and looked at him with unabashed delight. “Sebastian, you have frogs!” He guffawed, her joy infectious. 39

Tracy Goodwin Gwen walked toward him, then knelt on the grass, tracing the water lily with her finger. “This must have been your favorite place when you were younger.” Sebastian sat beside her, stretching out his legs. “For a while, it was.” “Why only for a while?” “My father trained me early to behave like a duke. It was my duty.” Gwen’s eyes grew distant. “Duty can be constricting.” “Are you speaking from your own experience?” It was a personal question. One that Sebastian found himself hoping she would answer. She watched the clouds dance in front of the sun. “After my mother’s death, my father’s obsession with duty became clear to all of us. Papa was extremely hard on Colin and Tristan. Boyish amusement ceased.” “It was similar for me,” he admitted. “Although I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t being groomed for my title.” Gwen turned toward him. “You must have been a formidable child.” Sebastian faced two choices. He could either give her a jovial answer, then move on to less sentimental subjects, or he could be honest. He felt he could talk to her with complete trust. It was evident in the telling depths of her brown eyes. No woman had ever touched his soul. No woman had even been close. Until Gwen. 40

Dance With Deception And the thought terrified him. Honesty was a risk, but since encountering her at the Stockton’s ball, he seemed to crave risks where Gwen was concerned. “I was a very sensitive lad. My mother and father got into many an argument about how to raise their heir. Mother believed it natural for a boy to show and receive affection.” His tone hardened. “Father, on the other hand, found it unacceptable for his heir to be emotional. I spent the first part of my childhood trying to discover why he didn’t love me.” Gwen’s tone was gentle. “His kind of love was different than yours, as was his way of showing it, but that doesn’t mean that he loved you any less.” A memory of his mother sobbing on the floor filled Sebastian’s mind. It was the day he protected her, standing up to the brute that was his father. He was careful to control his voice as he added, “I was quick to discover that I detested his version of love and wanted nothing of it.” She remained mute, her brown eyes encouraging him to continue. He returned his gaze to the bright sky above, squinting. “My father was a violent man and I don’t discuss him with anyone, not even Victoria.” “Whether or not you discuss your father with Victoria, I am certain she is aware of your feelings. It is that way with my brothers.” She followed his gaze, basking in the sun’s warmth. “They don’t get along with my father. It’s what drove Colin away and it’s what keeps Tristan close. Neither trusts our 41

Tracy Goodwin father and Tristan feels the need to protect me.” Gwen’s candid confidences took Sebastian off guard and endeared her more toward him. His heart welled in his chest. “Tristan is protecting you from your father?” “And from myself.” She managed a slight grin, her expression serene and proud. “He knows how much I love my father and how hard I’ve tried to make him happy since my mother’s passing. Even though it has yet to work, I never stop trying.” Sebastian studied her as he tried to understand. “You spoke of the duty he imposed on your brothers. What is the duty your father imposes on you?” Gwen nibbled on her lower lip as she pondered his question. She imitated her father, her tone deep. “It is a lady’s duty to be seen not heard.” “You, be seen and not heard?” His disbelief was evident in his tone. “Does he know the same young woman I do?” “Tristan sees it the same way you do. My father doesn’t agree.” Sebastian resisted the urge to lean closer to her and instead commented, “Tristan sounds like a wonderful brother to you.” “Perhaps it’s the fact that we spent months in the womb together. We’ve always been inseparable. After our mother died, I don’t know how I would have survived without him.” Sebastian frowned. “You were both still so young. Didn’t your father help you through it at all?” 42

Dance With Deception “No. He never spoke of her, still doesn’t. I think it’s too painful for him.” Her gaze met his. “Isn’t that the same reason you don’t discuss your feelings about your father with Victoria?” “Yes,” he replied in a husky whisper. “Yes, I suppose it is.” Gwen played with one of the curls framing her face. “You said earlier that propriety is overrated in your opinion. Did you mean it?” “I never say anything I don’t mean, Gwen. At least not to you.” The magnetism of his smile and the warmth in his eyes shone through his statement causing her pulse to quicken. “Not to me?” she asked, her voice shaky. Sebastian’s gaze held hers, two sapphires eyes shinning darker, richer by the moment. “I’ve told you more since the Stockton’s ball than I’ve told most in a lifetime.” An inexplicable happiness pulsated through Gwen, as her gaze remained locked with his. He was extraordinary and would make some lucky woman a wonderful husband. It dawned on her she could never be that woman and disappointment surged through her soul. His baritone jarred her from her thoughts. “What were you referring to?” “Something’s plagued me since we spoke earlier in your library.” Gwen paused before adding, “It isn’t my place to say anything. To do so would disregard all etiquette.” “Go ahead,” he said. He steeled his shoulders, 43

Tracy Goodwin as if bracing himself. “It’s about your estate management. This might sound odd to you, but I may have a solution.” Gwen studied him, gauging his mood. Sebastian stood, then offered her his hand. “Let me hear your solution as we walk.” “You’re sure you don’t mind?” She paused in the act of reaching for his hand, her determination faltering. “You have no choice but to continue as you’ve now piqued my interest.” After she accepted his hand, Sebastian pulled her up. They hadn’t taken two steps before she began. “You can run the estates yourself with little hassle. Bring in an assistant to help. At this moment, with what you are paying all of your managers, plus the expenses you are not aware of, you’re most likely losing money.” He paused in mid-step. Gaping at her, he asked, “How do you know all of this?” “Will what I say remain between us?” “I’d never betray your confidence, Gwen.” His words carried a resolve she’d never before heard. “I run the estate in England. Everyone, with the exception of Tristan, believes it is the feat of my father.” She furrowed her brow. “Not even Papa is aware that I have been running Ainsley. He wouldn’t approve.” “I don’t understand. Why doesn’t your father run his own estates?” Gwen began to walk again, her gaze fixed 44

Dance With Deception straight ahead. “He runs all of them with the exception of Ainsley. He has wanted nothing to do with it since my mother’s passing.” She tilted her head, expecting a chastising remark or a disdainful glance from him, but all she could see was admiration expressed in his chiseled features. “Go on,” he coaxed. “Tell me more, like why you are running it instead of your brothers.” Gwen picked up a small rock. She rubbed its smooth surface with her thumb, then sighed before she explained. “I always hated lessons I received from my governess. Etiquette, needlepoint, pianoforte, fashion, ugh! I understand the need, but most of it is dreadfully boring!” She paused, however his steady grin was all the encouragement she needed. “I felt wronged that my brothers learned interesting subjects while I didn’t. I convinced Tristan to tutor me in his subjects. Years later, with Colin unreachable and unable to manage it himself, Tristan felt my running the estate was a hands-on exam to see how much I’d learned.” Sebastian gave her an astonished look. “And your father?” “He can never know.” She shook her head. “I feel dreadful keeping it from him, but he wouldn’t approve.” “I never would have expected you to be so devious.” Although his tone was not one of reproof, Gwen stiffened. “I feel horrible about that. Believe 45

Tracy Goodwin me, I don’t enjoy deceiving my father, yet I adore managing the estate.” “You are extraordinary.” Sebastian smiled, openly admiring her. “How so?” Her eyes danced with mirth. “For deceiving my father or for interfering in your business affairs?” “What if I told you that I found both attributes extraordinary?” “Then I would be forced to admit the credit isn’t mine.” Gwen brushed a stray curl away from her face. “Tristan is largely responsible. I wouldn’t dare defy my father on my own. That requires a strength I don’t possess.” Her arranged marriage to Keir came to mind and she added, “But perhaps obeying one’s father requires more courage than disobeying him?” “Perhaps.” Sebastian surveyed her, as if trying to uncover her hidden meaning. Then, as if deciding not to pry, he stated, “I will take your advice into consideration.” “You aren’t annoyed with me for interfering?” Her eyes widened. “To the contrary. I respect your opinion and am glad you spoke up.” He placed his hands in his trouser pockets, his expression one of a guilty child. “To be honest, I expected you to address the fact that my sister was playing matchmaker between us.” Gwen’s smile widened. “I chose not to mention that, taking the tactful approach.” “Tactful? Imagine that.” Sebastian feigned 46

Dance With Deception surprise. “Those are fighting words, your grace.” Gwen began to march toward their horses. “Just where do you think you’re going?” he intoned. “Will you apologize for your previous comment?” Gwen replied over her shoulder as she took the reins of his stallion. Sebastian’s stride was confident as he followed her step by step. “No, I most certainly will not.” “Then you leave me no choice but to retaliate.” Gwen turned to face him as she began walking backward. “I must hide your stallion.” “We agreed not to taunt each other, remember?" He edged closer to her. “You agreed. I did no such thing.” Sebastian’s pace quickened. “You realize that if I catch you, I will throw you in the lake.” “No, not that! I surrender!” Gwen turned, then held out the reins as a peace offering. When he grasped them, she began to run. He caught up to her and grabbed her waist before swinging her around to face him. Gwen pealed with laughter. “Don’t you want to go for a swim?” His tone was playful. Gwen shook her head, her smile bright. “No, thank you, not today.” Sebastian’s hands rested on her waist. She reveled in his nearness. His body was warm and his hair was the scent of musk. He pulled her closer. 47

Tracy Goodwin Their faces were so close that she could feel his warm breath. A lurch of excitement surged within her. She sensed the change in his good-humored mood. His eyes were now a smoky blue. Their expression told her he wanted to kiss her. And Gwen wanted to kiss him. The realization stunned her. Even more so because she’d never wanted anything so much. Yet, no matter how much she wanted him to kiss her, she couldn’t allow it. It took all the will power she possessed to fight against his enigmatic presence. After tearing her gaze from his, she managed to whisper, “It’s late.” Sebastian nodded, then released her. “I’ll take you back.” His voice was rugged. During the ride back to his stables, there was no visible tension from the kiss they had almost shared. Upon reaching his estate, Gwen’s carriage was prepared. Sebastian helped her alight, then kissed the back of her hand. As she settled against the leather seat, Gwen relished the welcome heat his every touch sent throughout her body. The carriage lurched forward and she peered through the window, watching Sebastian ascend the grand steps before disappearing from view. Her mind gloried in the memory of his bronzed skin, perfect smile, the scent of his cologne, and the depth of emotion in his azure eyes. Even though Gwen’s conscience told her she’d done the right thing by not kissing him, a part of her 48

Dance With Deception felt disappointed he capitulated so readily. She found Sebastian a series of contradictions. His air was jovial and his velvety voice was charming yet, all the while, his rugged features, muscular build, and towering frame exuded raw masculinity. He was a gentleman, a member of the nobility, yet he was darker, more intense than any other nobleman she had ever encountered. He was also wittier. She loved his face when he was teasing her. When the cleft in his chin deepened under his lazy smile. She sighed. Why did this man come along at a time when she was betrothed to another? Gwen was certain she was the unluckiest lady in all of England. **** “Victoria!” Sebastian bellowed as he charged through the front door. His sister peeked her head out from beneath the stairs where she’d been waiting for him. “Yes?” Sebastian walked toward her, then sat on a redcarpeted stair. He motioned for her to join him. “I’m not going over there until you’ve assured me that I have nothing to fear.” He pointed his finger at her. “You’ll have something to worry about if you do not obey me.” “I know what you’re going to say.” Victoria began creeping towards him. “I’m sorry I deceived you, but I have no regrets.” “What gave you such an idea?” 49

Tracy Goodwin Victoria settled beside him, then folded her hands before primly placing them on her lap. “You don’t want to know.” “Like hell I don’t.” “Very well.” She rolled her eyes. “It was obvious from your behavior at the Stockton’s ball that you were smitten with Gwen. Knowing you as well as I do, I knew you’d need a little push in the right direction. That’s what I gave you today.” Sebastian rubbed his jaw. “Have I been that obvious?” “Oh, let’s see, shall we?” She placed her index finger on her lips for dramatic effect. “You couldn’t take your gaze off of her at the ball and today you were actually laughing as you were walking to the stables with her. That is an uncommon sound, Sebastian, and I think it suits you.” “Promise me you won’t do anything like that again.” He squeezed her hand. His sister shook her head with vehemence. “I can promise no such thing.” “Victoria.” His tone was grave. “I never should have gone anywhere with her without a chaperone.” “Honestly!” She slapped his thigh. “It’s not as if anything happened.” Sebastian bit his tongue. His sister had no idea what almost happened. “That’s not the point. I never would have allowed you to go somewhere unaccompanied with a member of the opposite sex. Gwen has a father and brothers who feel that same way about her. You must promise me you won’t do it again.” 50

Dance With Deception “All right.” Her shoulders slumped. Noting how dejected his sister appeared to be, he added, “I appreciate what you were trying to do for me.” Her eyes widened. “You do?” Sebastian nodded. “Excellent!” Victoria threw her arms around his neck. “I knew you liked her.” “I think you like her a little bit, too.” Her words tumbled with excitement. “I think she’d make the best sister, Sebastian.” “Wait, just a moment.” He peeled his sister’s arms from around his neck, then placed her hands in his, trying desperately to make her understand. “I never said anything about marrying her, Tori.” Victoria grinned. “You didn’t need to say it. I know you, Sebastian.” He was growing frustrated with her. Her selfproclaimed insight into his innermost self unnerved him. “I am not marrying anyone. Ever. So, no more matchmaking, do you hear me?” Victoria opened her mouth in protest. “No.” Sebastian raised his finger to silence her objection. “I can manage on my own, thank you very much. My love life is here by off limits to you.” His sister rose and began skipping up the carpeted staircase. She slowed when she got to the top and called over her shoulder in a singsong voice, “You mentioned love.” She continued to sing, “Love, he mentioned love,” until her voice faded. 51

Tracy Goodwin Victoria was turning into a female version of him, Sebastian realized. No, worse, for while she exhibited his determination, she also inherited their mother’s optimism. She was the best of both of them, he supposed. God help him. Life with his sister, Sebastian decided, made him worthy of sainthood.

52

V{tÑàxÜ G Tristan sent his sister a note from London, stating he had business to attend to and also needed time away from their father. She suspected he was having a divine time, drinking and gaming with the sole purpose of releasing his frustration and anger. Lucky man! Gwen wished she could disappear as easily. Their father’s endless talk of her upcoming nuptials and future groom grated on her nerves. In addition, rain had forced her to remain indoors for several days, causing her to feel as if she were a piece of muslin being pulled so tight that it was about to rip. If she stayed inside one minute more, she would snap in two. The weather cleared somewhat for her by midday. In spite of the heavy gray clouds that hovered, Gwen jumped at her chance to escape and set off toward the stables, euphoric that she’d soon be feeling the gusty wind through her hair. She mounted her gray and white gelding, then set out at a trot. When Majesty was limbered, they rode fast and furious. At the border of Ainsley, she 53

Tracy Goodwin untied the ribbon in her hair and stuffed it in the waist of her breeches. The thick clouds grew darker, swirling overhead, however she refused to head back. She’d felt imprisoned in her own home for far too long. No matter how much she loved her father, his avowals of Keir’s devotion were driving her mad. As if that weren’t enough, after she’d endured all she believed she could, her father would refer to his ailing health, drawing guilt from her. At those very moments, she felt certain she was the worst daughter in all of England and Scotland combined. The gray clouds grew black, darkening the day to a light dusk. Gwen remained undaunted. As she approached her hill, her favorite place, she patted the gelding’s mane in encouragement. “Come on, girl, to the top,” she urged. She tapped her heels to the animal’s flank and Majesty responded, switching into a wild gallop. As they neared her destination, another rider seated upon a large, black stallion spooked the duo. Majesty neighed, abruptly veering to avoid a collision. The other horse responded alike, however it seemed to be succeeding where as Gwen’s palfrey was not. As she fought to remain atop her saddle, Gwen found herself silently cursing her riding corset. Although short, it still restricted her motion somewhat. A storm cloud burst and sheets of rain began falling, further startling Majesty, who reared up on her hind legs. 54

Dance With Deception Gwen fell sideways off the saddle, her body hitting the muddy ground with a loud thud, winding her. She groaned from the pain that pulsated within her chest and ribs, then began tumbling down the hill, dazing her further. When at last Gwen had ceased rolling, she was lying face down in the rain sodden grass. She lifted her head a few inches, blinking in an attempt to clear her clouded vision. She caught sight of flailing hooves slicing through the driving rain, then locked her gaze on the mysterious rider who was trying to grab Majesty’s reins. As her eyesight remained somewhat blurred, it was impossible for Gwen to recognize her savior. Placing her weight against her hands, Gwen attempted to stand up. The new pain that seared through her legs caused her to rethink her plan and she gently lowered herself back onto the mudspattered ground. A familiar voice called to her. Still dazed, it took her several seconds before she could place it. “Gwen! Gwen!” Sebastian half ran and half slid down the muddy hill. All she could muster was a loud painful groan. He knelt beside her. “Can you move?” His quickened speech laced with urgency told her he was worried. “I think so.” Gwen managed, struggling to a kneeling position. She was aware of his hands upon her arm and back as he helped her. Sebastian expelled his breath in a loud whoosh. “When I saw you fall ….” he brushed several wet 55

Tracy Goodwin curls away from her face. “Where does it hurt?” “Everywhere.” She managed a feeble smile. Chills raked her body throughout. The rain, the tumble had weakened her. “I don’t think anything is broken. How is my horse?” “The horse that all but killed you?” Sebastian pointed to where Majesty was tied. “That creature is insane. I will tell your father about the way she bounded over the top of that hill.” “No, Sebastian, don’t.” Gwen laid a hand on his arm. “It was my fault, not hers. I kicked her flanks to get her to go faster. Please, don’t tell my father.” He didn’t answer her. Was he still deliberating? “Sebastian, please, promise me you will not cause harm to come to Majesty. She shouldn’t suffer for my poor judgment.” “I promise,” he said through gritted teeth. “But don’t think this is the end of it. You will tell me why you were so reckless, but first, I must get you to shelter. If that fall didn’t succeed in killing you, the death grip of this cold will. Can you stand?” “I think so.” Sebastian removed his great coat and eased it over her shoulders to shelter her from more rain, then offered her his hand. After she placed her hand in his, gently, slowly, he pulled her to her feet. Gwen swayed as a wave of lightheadedness washed over her. He picked her up and dug the sides of his boots into the mud as he carried her back to the top of the hill, then placed her on the ground underneath the 56

Dance With Deception large tree where he’d tied their horses. Gwen leaned against the trunk, grateful for the warmth of his coat and the leafy canopy that now sheltered them from the incessant rain. “Do you think you broke anything?” he asked, lines of concern etched his brow. She nodded. A wave of dizziness made her regret the slight motion. “You took one hell of a fall,” Sebastian said as he knelt beside her. His clothes were soaked, mud splattered, and Gwen was certain he had never looked more handsome. Perhaps it was because he exuded power, raw masculinity. Even without saying a word, he commanded attention. Her heart slammed against her chest as she tried hard to control her labored breathing. “I won’t put you back on your horse until I know you can ride.” A wet strand of jet-black hair fell into just above his eye. He pushed it away before continuing. “Tell me when it hurts, all right?” Gwen nodded, and Sebastian began his assessment by removing her right boot. She stiffened. A grin tugged at his full lips. “Now is no time for modesty. How else will I ascertain whether or not you’ve broken anything?” “You’re right.” Gwen swallowed the lump in her throat. “I wasn’t thinking.” “Relax, and tell me if you feel pain.” She nodded once more. He removed her boot, 57

Tracy Goodwin then carefully manipulated her foot and ankle, working his way up her right leg. Gwen remembered bruising her ankle as a young child. The doctor examined her much the same way Sebastian was doing, but she couldn’t recall this tingling sensation. It surfaced everywhere Sebastian touched her. No pain beckoned at that moment, just a stealthy desire surging within her; one she’d never before experienced. She studied him, reveling in his nearness. He had a beautiful face. Sensual, firm lips, strong chiseled jaw. His profile was one of strength and physical perfection. Sebastian proceeded to her left boot, repeating the process once more. Gwen was aware his hands were moving slowly. No physical pain let its presence known through her left leg either, yet, his every soft, persistent touch was quickening her pulse and sending waves of heat through every limb he examined. As his assessment drew out, her body responded, challenging her with a force that took her by complete surprise. Her breasts became sensitive and taut. Her womanhood throbbed with need, and the drumming of her heartbeat echoed louder and louder within her ears. His gentle touch sent another tingle of excitement surging through Gwen as a low moan escaped her lips. “Did that hurt?” he asked, searching her eyes. “A little,” she lied, embarrassed. She averted her gaze, lower, to his chest. His ivory shirt was 58

Dance With Deception soaked. And through the clinging, wet fabric, tight ripples of muscles threw her pulse into a maddened rhythm. Gwen looked up once more and her breath hitched. She’d never seen his eyes a deeper shade of blue than they were at that very moment. The frantic tempo of her heart increased and Gwen became breathless, unable to keep up. The throbbing increased, spreading in parts of her she never knew existed. What had he awakened in her? Sebastian stared at her. Even in her present muddied, grass-stained, disheveled state with her long hair soaked through and dripping, Gwen was ravishing. And he was enjoying playing doctor. Too much for his own good. His throbbing loins told him so. His great coat slipped off her shoulders and Sebastian’s arousal hardened at the sight of her wet, transparent shirt clinging to … Her breasts. Rounded and half hidden by her corset, the tops of the globes surrounding her nipples could be seen through the wet, clinging fabric. He was certain she had no idea how much she was revealing. He however was acutely aware, painfully aware, as he moved his examination upward. He stroked her shoulders and she shuddered. “Does this hurt?” He asked in a husky voice, glimpsing her bosom swell then fall with every breath she took. “No. I felt a chill,” she whispered in a shaky 59

Tracy Goodwin voice. He moved down her shoulder to her arm, checking elbow, wrist, and fingers, inspecting every last inch of her, except …. Sebastian moved to her other arm and repeated the process. From the corner of his eye, he caught her breasts once again, her chest heaving up and down. He shifted his gaze to her creamy neck, several wet mahogany ringlets clinging to it. His attention returned lower to her breasts, where he was certain her nipples were at the height of attention for him. He longed to free Gwen of her corset and confirm his suspicions. He touched her ribs, with a pretense of seeking for a break. A throaty moan escaped Gwen’s lips. Sebastian jerked his hands away. “Have I hurt you?” he asked, his tone rough. Gwen remained silent, as if she couldn’t find her voice. A bright pink blush crept over her cheeks as her intense gaze locked with his. He was fighting his inner demon. His conscience begged him to escort her home immediately, yet his hands ached to continue their perusal. Gwen had ignited the fire in his body and he sensed the passion he had kindled within her. He longed to explore her smooth curves. He longed to kiss her luscious lips. It was madness to do so, but he wanted to feel – no he needed to feel – her lips against his. Just this once. His hands spread wide atop her ribs. Sebastian 60

Dance With Deception bent forward to kiss her. He heard a catch in her breath as his lips covered hers in a soft kiss, which deepened upon her lack of response. He moved his palms upward, over Gwen’s ribs, then her breasts. A barely audible moan escaped her throat. He sensed the simple touch had sent shock waves throughout her body. It thrilled him. He withdrew to witness the passion in her eyes. She leaned into him. It was almost his undoing. As Sebastian brushed his lips over hers again, joy swelled in his heart. She tasted as sweet as he imagined. Reading Gwen’s acceptance, he traced the outline of her heart-shaped lips with his tongue before prying for entry. Her lips parted, his tongue making contact with hers. She shuddered at the contact and arched into him. A surge of desire united them both. Sebastian used all the strength he could muster to fight the urge to remove her blouse and explore her breasts. Even in his present state of seduction, he knew Gwen deserved better than some romp in the rain. The fact Sebastian fought against the urge to take her virtue proved he wasn’t the man he used to be. Years before his mother’s death, he would have done so without looking back. He was no longer that man. Sebastian’s thumb stroked her cheek. He was teasing her senseless and Gwen trembled with excitement. 61

Tracy Goodwin She yearned for more. Dear God, she wanted more. Gwen knelt before him as she inched her hands over the wet cloth of Sebastian’s shirt. His muscles twitched from her delicate touch. Her fingers crept higher and settled into his thick black hair while his tongue continued to explore her mouth. First slowly, then his pace quickened. She had never been kissed like this. How was she supposed to respond? Her instinct told her to follow his lead and use her own tongue, as he was doing. Tentatively, she explored with her own and it felt extraordinary. It was as if he couldn’t be close enough to her. Sebastian placed his hands on her buttocks and raised her onto his lap. She straddled him as his hands massaged the damp nape of her neck. Gradually, he traced the length of her spine and she quivered with delight. Sebastian returned his hand to her neck. He stroked her creamy flesh as he lessened the kiss. By the time their lips parted, both were gasping for air, breathless from their shared passion. He held her on his lap, stroking her neck, for an inexhaustible amount of time, listening to the last few droplets of rain now falling from the canopy of leaves above them. Gwen rested her head on his shoulder. Her previous courage to explore Sebastian’s mouth abated as anxiety and guilt over her lack of selfrestraint seeped in. She was fearful of what he must think of her. 62

Dance With Deception Ladies didn’t behave in such a manner, especially ladies betrothed to other men! “Why were you riding by yourself?” Sebastian asked, his voice interrupting her silent flogging. She turned to face him, certain her heated cheeks were a brilliant shade of pink. “I needed time away from my father and, since Tristan has gone to London, I went riding alone.” “Sounds very innocent.” Sebastian gave her a slight smile before his sarcasm set in. “You did, however, almost kill yourself maneuvering that hill.” It was time to admit the truth. She averted her gaze but only briefly. Her pride dictated she face him. “My father has arranged my betrothal and I have been unable to dissuade him. Being cooped up in our manor, listening to his blind devotion to Keir, the man he insists I marry … I felt like I was going insane. I thought the only thing I could control was my horse and you witnessed how I mucked that up.” “Let me see if I understand this.” Sebastian caressed her shoulder as he spoke. “Your father wants you to wed a man named Keir?” Gwen nodded in agreement. “What’s his last name, dare I ask?” “Dunlop.” Sebastian feigned indignation. “Why would your father ever want you to marry a man with such a ridiculous name?” “It’s a Scottish name,” Gwen retorted. “That explains it.” He smirked. “Why does 63

Tracy Goodwin your father want you to marry him? And why is it that you don’t wish to marry him? All qualms about his name aside.” He’s not you. She bit the inside of her lip to avoid speaking the words. “He’s a long time friend of my father’s and Papa loves Keir like a son. I suppose that’s why he thinks it to be a splendid match. That and the fact that Keir is Scottish. My father is loyal to his ancestry. Did I mention Keir is an earl? I suppose that could also be a reason.” Sebastian’s brow creased. “Why the hurry to see you wed?” “Papa’s health has been deteriorating. It’s his wish to see me wed before his passing.” “It is a fine mess you have made for yourself, Miss MacAlistair.” Sebastian’s voice was calm, his gaze steady. “A Scottish earl fiancé and you sitting on an English duke’s lap.” The heat in her cheeks intensified, spreading to her ears. “Perhaps,” he added in a low, husky voice, “here is where you ought to be.” As Gwen struggled to assimilate his words, Sebastian shifted her onto the ground, then stood, offering her his hand. “I must take you home this instant before your father organizes a search party.” Despite her objections, Sebastian nonetheless escorted her home. Back to being a lady of her standing, she tied her hair back and dusted off what mud had already dried on her clothes. With Sebastian’s agreement, she wore his great coat 64

Dance With Deception buttoned so no one would notice her disheveled clothing. Gwen extracted one more promise from him, that he wouldn’t mention her fall since her father would never let her go riding again if he knew of it. On their way, Sebastian devised a story close enough to the truth without being a complete fabrication. He would say that he found Gwen caught in the rain, offered her his great coat, and waited out the storm with her before returning her home. After all, gentlemen did not leave ladies alone out of doors during a storm. It was bad form. They arrived amidst an uproar. “Where in the hell have you been, Gwendolyn?” Gwen’s father thundered. “I gave you no permission to go—” Upon seeing his daughter’s companion, Lachlan stood slack jawed for a moment before gathering his manners. “I apologize, your grace. I wasn’t aware that you were here.” “I found Gwen under a tree that borders our properties,” Sebastian began the dialogue they had rehearsed. “It was pouring rain and I waited out the storm with her. I thought it only proper to ensure she returned home safely.” “Thank you for seeing her home,” Lachlan replied. Sebastian gave the man a reluctant grin. “I’m happy that I could be of service.” “Please join us for dinner tomorrow evening,” Lachlan suggested. “I also extend the invitation to your sister, your grace. It is the least I can do to 65

Tracy Goodwin repay your kindness toward my daughter.” Although her father’s tone was steady, Gwen couldn’t help but feel his words were somewhat forced, and that his smile didn’t quite meet his eyes. No one else seemed to notice. At least not that she could discern. “We would be honored to attend,” Sebastian replied, about to take his leave. He reached for Gwen’s hand and kissed the back of her fingers. “Please hold onto my coat. I’ll retrieve it tomorrow evening.” Gwen blushed at the mention of taking his coat off and her pulse quickened when Sebastian’s lips brushed against her hand, his breath warming it. She nibbled her lower lip, remembering how his kisses had tasted earlier. Immediately following his departure, Gwen’s maid asserted herself. “You’ll catch a death of a fever if you don’t warm yourself, miss.” The irony was Gwen felt quite warm whenever she thought of the duke, which was almost every minute since their encounter in the rain. **** Gwen spent that evening and the following day on tenterhooks, until the dinner hour when she would again see the duke. She shamefully remembered the sweet taste of his lips and the warm, gentle touch of his caresses. She let out a deep sigh of disappointment, for the events she reveled in so much would never 66

Dance With Deception happen again. She was betrothed and Sebastian now knew of it. Still she found herself wondering where all of his amorous advances would have led if she weren’t promised to another man. And she found herself struggling to find a viable way out of her unwanted betrothal, though no solution offered itself to her. At least none that wouldn’t hurt her father’s delicate health, or her family’s reputation. In spite of her demure wardrobe, Gwen was determined to look her most attractive for this evening’s guests. She chose a violet gown with a high neckline and small violet buttons trailing all the way down her back. Jane tightened Gwen’s corset until she flinched. When Gwen stood before her reflection in the mirror, she had to admit the pain was well worth it, for her petite waist looked glorious. The gown was so snug that it showed off all of her curves and, if she dared admit it to herself, she looked rather seductive in spite of her lack of bare skin showing. Her determination to please Sebastian overrode all else, and yet a small voice inside kept asking why was she going to all the effort when nothing would come of it. She wanted to see him smile at her the way he did when they were alone – that unguarded and appreciative gaze she loved to distraction. Gwen coiled an unruly curl back into place. Her long wavy tresses flowed down her back, tied at the nape with a velvet clip. At her ears, Gwen wore 67

Tracy Goodwin amethysts that had once belonged to her mother. Upon final inspection in front of the mirror, she was quite pleased. Holding her arms out, she twirled. “What do you think?” Misty-eyed, her maid whispered in awe, “You’ve never looked so beautiful, miss.” Gwen grinned before rushing downstairs to join her father and Tristan, who had returned from London that afternoon. While descending the staircase, she halted in mid-step, delighted to see a pair of piercing sapphire eyes watching her from the foyer. The expression on Sebastian’s face was one of open admiration. Her heart quickened. His was precisely the look she’d been hoping for. Sebastian met Gwen halfway up the stairs, then offered his arm. As she placed her hand upon it, he leaned toward her and said in a husky whisper, “You look exquisite.” Her face felt as if it had flushed. She was at a loss for words. Somehow, a mere “thank you” didn’t seem sufficient. Instead, she offered Sebastian a smile. Gwen felt time stand still until her brother cleared his throat to garner their attention. Sebastian escorted her to the foyer where they joined their siblings. Tristan kissed his sister on her cheek before whispering in her ear, “Don’t you look lovely. Who might you be trying to impress?” Even through his whisper, she recognized his teasing manner. She responded in kind by 68

Dance With Deception mumbling, “You would know if you had remained here with me, now wouldn’t you?” She turned to Victoria. “You look absolutely beautiful. But when don’t you?” Tori reached out and hugged her tight. “I’m not nearly as radiant as you are tonight.” “Father’s waiting in the library,” Tristan said, offering his arm to Gwen. They led their small party into the library where the elder MacAlistair awaited them. Lush burgundy carpeting covered the floor and dark mahogany bookshelves covered each wall. Sebastian crossed to one of the bookshelves and read some of the titles. His attention was drawn to a vivid watercolor painting above the fireplace mantle. It featured a shimmering lake and bright pastel flowers. He studied the scene, and Gwen’s words while at the edge of his lake, came back to him. I think I’ve seen heaven. As if reading his thoughts, Gwen walked to him and whispered, “I wanted you to see our library for that very painting. It reminds me of your lake. Do you like it?” “Yes, it’s almost like seeing heaven,” he murmured. Victoria approached them, interrupting Sebastian’s quiet moment with Gwen. “What a beautiful painting.” She turned to her brother. “Doesn’t that look just like our lake?” Gwen began to explain who the talented artist was before her father startled everyone by intoning 69

Tracy Goodwin in a rather abrupt manner, “It is time for our meal. Everyone into the dining room.” He ushered the group to the dining room, uttering indistinguishable words under his breath in a low tone. **** After they were seated, Tristan and the duke conversed about the young MacAlistair’s law business. Their conversation bored Lachlan and he refused to join in. Instead, he studied Sebastian, noting that he resembled the late duke. The realization disgusted him. Lachlan fought to keep his expression neutral, his mind racing. You shouldn’t have brought her back here. Had he miscalculated? He’d been forced to flee his home in Scotland until after Gwen’s wedding. It was the only way he could ensure the marriage would take place without disruption. But he didn’t predict how events here had unfolded with Tristan showing up at all the wrong times. And the duke … he rarely tore his gaze from Gwen. I miscalculated. He fought to calm his nerves. It didn’t matter, even if the duke were smitten with his daughter, he wouldn’t allow her to back out of his contract with Keir. He’d worked too hard at it to see it all crumble around him. 70

Dance With Deception Lachlan rose from his chair determined this evening would be the last time Gwen saw the duke. Placing a hand on his forehead as if feigning a headache, he said, “If you’ll excuse me, I am not feeling well. I’m afraid I must retire for the evening.” “I will help you upstairs, Papa,” Gwen offered, just as he suspected she would. “Gentlemen.” Lachlan fought to hide the contempt in his tone before adding, “Lady Victoria, I apologize.” He offered a curt bow and as his daughter arrived at his side, Tristan stood. “Here, Father, let me take you upstairs. Gwen, you entertain our guests—” “No, Tristan, I need your sister,” Lachlan said in his harsh voice. He paused and as if all was settled, he softened his tone. “Enjoy your meal. Your grace, Victoria, goodnight.” As she exited the dining room with her father, Gwen sent a look of apology to Sebastian. “I was unaware that your father was ill, Tristan. I hope we didn’t impose too much.” Victoria spoke to Tristan in an alarmed tone. “Will he be all right?” Tristan stared at the door as he returned to his seat, his controlled tone flat. “I think my father will be fine now.” **** Gwen attempted to leave several times. However, in each instance, her father would request something 71

Tracy Goodwin else of her. After what seemed like a lifetime had passed, he allowed her to leave his side at last. Because she had been gone for so long, Gwen was certain their guests had already left, so she traveled downstairs in search of her brother. She followed the chimes of random keys as they were tapped against the pianoforte and found Tristan with their guests in the music room. Her brother approached her. “Let me guess. He made you stay with him.” “Yes,” Gwen quipped. “He chained me down and forced me to wait out the rest of our meal.” Tristan replied with a wicked grin before responding, “I’m glad you broke free of his chains. They don’t match your frock.” Gwen rolled her eyes. “Ah, the rolling eyes.” Sebastian’s voice seemed full of mirth. “I know that expression all too well. I see it at least five times a day from Victoria.” Tori’s hands froze on the pianoforte keys. She turned to her brother. “I’ll have you know that I cut that number down to three.” “I stand corrected.” Sebastian bowed his head to her. “Annoying lot, sisters are.” Tristan caught and held Sebastian’s gaze. “Wouldn’t you agree?” Sebastian raked Gwen with a stare as she crossed the room and joined his sister on the piano bench. “It depends on whose sister it is, I suppose.” “Did your mother ever tell you nursery rhymes?” Gwen asked of her younger counterpart. Tori nodded. “Of course.” 72

Dance With Deception “Mine too,” Gwen replied as she rummaged for a specific sheet of music before placing it atop the piano. “I loved the one about a brother and sister traipsing through a forest.” “Why was it your favorite?” Tori asked. “He was eaten by a wolf.” Victoria glanced over her shoulder, seeking her own brother, her eyes widening with mischief. Sebastian coughed behind his hand, desperate not to laugh. “See what I mean.” Tristan clicked his tongue, shaking his head. “They are absolutely brutal.” Gwen leaned toward Tori, then whispered in a conspiratorial tone, “If we ignore him, he may go away.” “Tori was about to sing for us.” Sebastian’s rich timbre filled the small room. “She was explaining that she doesn’t like playing the pianoforte,” Tristan added. “Why don’t you accompany her?” “What do you think, Tori?” Gwen asked, shrugging her shoulders. “Shall we entertain the gentlemen?” Victoria’s nerves were evident in her round, saucer-shaped eyes. Gwen encouraged her to a point where the anxious young woman, although not excited, was no longer opposed to the idea of singing in public. Gwen’s fingers glided over the keys and Victoria sang like an angel. Sebastian watched the scene with open admiration. Gwen was wonderful to his sister. 73

Tracy Goodwin He rectified that. Gwen was wonderful. Period. Tristan interrupted Sebastian’s thoughts. “When I’m home, Gwen and I always go riding at daybreak.” He spoke in hushed tones, adding, “By and large, we don’t run into anyone as our trail goes from our estate up to the hill that borders our properties. Do you ever ride that trail in the mornings, your grace?” Sebastian shot Tristan a sly look. “I believe I will be traveling that trail every morning from now on.” “What a coincidence,” Tristan mocked, turning to enjoy the ladies’ performances. Sebastian smiled to himself, satisfied with the evening’s events. He wanted Gwen more than he had ever wanted anything or anyone though he knew not why. Perhaps it was because he had known her so long ago – knew her soul to be kind, pure? Or perhaps it was because she was betrothed to another? Out of reach and off limits to him? No. Neither reason rang true. It was because he wanted her. Plain and simple, nothing more. And he wanted Gwen to desire him just as much. He had always known that at one point or another, he would have to consider a marriage of convenience, for the sole purpose of producing an heir, nothing more. The thought always sickened him, as he had no desire to ever marry. But his duty to carry on his 74

Dance With Deception title to the next generation nagged at him, never letting him be. It was in the shadows, never hidden for very long. Sebastian watched Gwen tapping the keys to the pianoforte. She was sweet and kind, open and honest. She always had been. And spunky as hell. Marrying her would solve both of their dilemmas. She wouldn’t have to marry a man her father had chosen with some ridiculous name and worthless title. And Sebastian would acquire a wife, and produce an heir, without ever having to subject himself to the marriage market that was the ton. The more Sebastian considered it, the more he decided marrying Gwen would be best for both of them. The moment the women finished, Sebastian announced the first part of his plan. “Victoria and I are throwing a ball in a fortnight. We will, of course, be dispatching the invitations through our livery. I hope you will both attend.” **** Lachlan turned the corner just as his son accepted the duke’s invitation. He quickly backed away before anyone saw him. Damn that boy of mine for accepting the duke’s invitation. As he ascended the stairs, Lachlan tweaked his plan, calculating his next move. No one would see it coming. 75

Tracy Goodwin His daughter’s wishes be damned. Keir would join them at the Duke of Davenport’s ball. And a wedding announcement would take place.

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V{tÑàxÜ H With the customary spring rain nowhere in sight, Gwen and her brother resumed their morning rides on the very next day. She couldn’t discern why Tristan insisted she wear the appropriate ladies’ riding habit, as no amount of questioning would bring about an answer from her devilish brother. The answer to the riddle became obvious when they reached the crest of their favorite hill. Her pulse quickened as she spied Sebastian sitting astride his prize black stallion. Her body reacted similarly every time he was near her, even today in the presence of her brother chaperoning them. In the course of the next week, Victoria began to join their morning rides and Gwen eagerly awaited the precious time she shared with them. The Duke of Davenport’s ball approached and her excitement grew with every day that passed. She had already picked out a beautiful bronze gown and, in an effort to look more appealing than every other woman in attendance, instructed Jane to cut out material from the bodice. At first her maid hesitated, likely afraid of 77

Tracy Goodwin reprisal from her father, however Gwen persisted until Jane agreed to restyle the bodice. Gwen’s black cloud came three days before the ball when Keir arrived at Ainsley to formalize their betrothal agreement with her father. By the end of this day, her fate would be sealed. She shuddered at the realization. Keir stayed to have dinner with father and daughter, as Tristan had returned to London on business the day before Keir’s arrival. Gwen pushed her food about with her fork but didn’t eat a bite. She felt queasy. God, she didn’t want to marry this man. In truth, Keir made her skin crawl. After their meal, Gwen escorted Keir to the front door with earnest unease. She didn’t want to be alone with him. Once both of them reached the foyer, Keir puckered his lips and placed a chaffed, cold kiss on her lips. It repulsed her. “Stop it!” Gwen pushed him away, then wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. Keir sniggered. “I’m just giving you a taste of what is to come. I have much more of that in reserve for the day we are wed.” She watched Keir mount his horse and trot away, then caught herself wiping at her mouth again. One of his cold, coarse kisses had been enough. She dared not imagine a lifetime of them. **** 78

Dance With Deception Gwen didn’t want to leave her bedchamber, preferring to remain within its safe confines and hide from her future. But as Sebastian and Victoria would be expecting her, she rode to their meeting place on her own. Her palfrey climbed to the top of the hill and Gwen’s heart slammed in her ribs. A lone horse was tethered to the tree: Sebastian’s onyx stallion. With her heart racing at a frantic pace, she caught sight of Sebastian standing next to the handsome beast, patting his mane. His horse nickered a greeting and Sebastian turned in Gwen’s direction, the corners of his full lips draped in a lazy smile. “Where is Victoria?” she asked, her shaky tone betraying her apprehension. “My sister insisted upon supervising some last minute preparations for our ball.” He walked to her. “Let me help you dismount.” Her body reacted to his hands on her waist with rushes of heat and flames. “Sebastian, I can’t stay.” “Let me help you dismount from your horse and you can explain why.” Ignoring her further protests, he tightened his grip and lifted her to the ground before releasing her. Gwen unbuttoned her gloves and pulled them off, tugging one finger at a time with force. She was sick to death of everyone ignoring her wishes, Sebastian included. He should have let her leave when she wanted to. Now, all she wanted to do was punish him for making her stay. 79

Tracy Goodwin “My father saw Keir yesterday.” Her tone was cold. She wanted it that way. “They finalized the betrothal; hence, it is inappropriate for me to be here with you, without a chaperone.” “It didn’t bother you before,” he said in his sensual timbre. Gwen turned on her heel and walked away from him. Sebastian shadowed her. “Why the sudden urge to stay away?” “Because it is now final. And because I cannot back out.” Gwen reached the century old oak whose canopy had shielded them during the downpour, then stopped short. Was it really less than a fortnight ago? Her body trembled as she recalled his passionate kisses and soft caresses. Sebastian closed the distance between them. The scent of his woodsy cologne told her he was near and the hairs on her neck stood on end. “Why don’t you marry the man who makes you happy?” As if it were that simple. Sebastian was just like her brother. Neither knew what it was like to be required by law to do as your father, your guardian, bid. Neither understood the consequences of crying off and the scandal that would ensue. Gwen resented the law that deemed her rights insignificant; she resented her father for imposing his duty on her and, even more so, she resented Sebastian’s casual tone, his nonchalance. She wanted to incite him, make him feel a little piece of 80

Dance With Deception her plight. She turned to face him, choosing words she knew would do the most damage to his ego. “Pray tell, who might that be? The man that makes me happy, that is?” “Don’t play games with me.” His gaze was sharp and judging. “You know the answer to that. Taunting me won’t make you feel better.” Instead of being humbled by his words, as she knew she ought to be, Gwen’s anger heightened. Taunting him would make her feel better. Because she was angry. Because she felt helpless. And because he was there. “I am marrying Keir,” she insisted. “Why?” Sebastian’s tone told her his anger was rising. “Why don’t you fight for yourself, get out of this unwanted marriage? It’s not like you to be so docile, so willing to sacrifice your own happiness— ” “How do you know who I am or what is in character for me?” She didn’t allow him to reply. “Knowing me for several weeks doesn’t grant you omnipotence. Nor does it give you the right to judge me.” “Tell me you want to marry him,” he ordered. When her response wasn’t immediate, he tipped her chin up, forcing her to face him once more. Gwen’s tone softened but only somewhat. “What difference does it make to you? Why must you hear the words?” He persisted, “Do you want to marry him?” “He wants to marry me.” She skirted his 81

Tracy Goodwin question, unable to admit the truth. “I have no doubt about that,” Sebastian replied, his baritone steady and strong. “I want you, too.” Gwen blinked, taken off guard by his admission. She slumped against the tree’s trunk as her knees had gone weak. Her mind raced as erratically as her pulse. Sebastian wanted her. It was no admission of love, nor was it a marriage proposal, but still … he wanted her. The knowledge should have excited her. Instead, Gwen’s heart sank. She wanted him to love her, she realized. Disappointment hung heavy in her chest. “So, now we have a conflict.” Sebastian’s sensual voice swept over her like waves rushing against the ocean shore. “Two men want you. Let’s try to see who is better suited for you, shall we? How does Keir kiss you?” Gwen’s cheeks warmed and her heart began pounding uncontrollably as she recalled Sebastian’s passionate, mind-numbing, senses-reeling kisses. Keir’s cold, chaste kiss was nothing in comparison. He didn’t possess Sebastian’s raw masculinity, nor did he rouse the same passion, however she wouldn’t defame her future husband by saying so. “Keir kisses beautifully,” was all she could muster. By the arch of Sebastian’s brow, Gwen was certain she hadn’t convinced him. How could she? When Sebastian kissed her, he seemed as if he couldn’t get enough of her, so she added, “Keir 82

Dance With Deception can’t get enough of me.” Sebastian clenched his fists at his sides. The thought of another man unable to get enough of her infuriated him. Was she telling the truth? He had to know. He studied her face, searching for a clue in her telling brown eyes. When he’d looked into them at the Stockton’s ball, he thought he’d seen right into her soul. On this afternoon, she kept them well hidden behind her veil. Could she really want to marry the earl? Was her fiancé truly such an ardent man? Jealously swept over Sebastian. He would make her forget her earl. It was his solemn vow as he embraced her, crushing his lips against hers. He kissed her passionately, determinedly, not allowing her time to think or back away. His arms encircled her, as if she would belong to him forever. Gwen leaned against his tall frame, his urgent kiss causing waves of heat to course through her veins. Why did Sebastian’s kisses drive her out of her mind with desire? She shouldn’t allow his kiss; she must pull away. As if sensing her dilemma, Sebastian wrapped his arms tighter around her. He then plunged his tongue deeper into her mouth and she was tempted to forget about her fiancé, just this once, but her conscience screamed in protest. She couldn’t dishonor Keir in this manner. Even if she didn’t love him; certainly she’d never be attracted to him. Gwen squeezed Sebastian’s shoulders, fighting 83

Tracy Goodwin to steady her reeling senses. Guilt reared its revolting head at the thought of her betrothal, her father, and her obligations. It was as if she’d been doused with cold water. Pushing against his chest, she created space between them, then tore her mouth free of his. She averted her gaze and gasped for one breath. Then another. Sebastian didn’t release her from his impassioned embrace. Although Gwen knew that she should step away, a part of her yearned to remain there for an eternity. She squeezed her eyes shut, swallowing audibly. She must have gone insane! There was no other viable explanation for her present state of chaos. Gwen waited, allowing Sebastian to make a move. When he didn’t, relief flooded her senses. She’d done it! She had given him no choice but to retreat. She’d won, but at what cost? Sebastian leaned his forehead against hers. Seconds passed, maybe minutes. He lost track of time. Why was he incapable of letting her go? And why, after so many years spent closing his heart, did Gwen affect him so? He searched the depths of his soul. For many years, she’d been like a sister to him for God’s sake. Why did he lose his mind when he was with her? And why did she rob him of his ability to think rationally? He found no answers, just more confusion. 84

Dance With Deception Sebastian wanted so much out of life when he was with her. He wanted her to champion him, to love him, to be devoted to him. And he yearned to hear her scream his name as he made love to her, penetrating her night after blessed night. Breathless, his heart beat violently within his chest. Because of Gwen, he discovered he had a heart. It had been hidden for too long, ignored for too many years. No more. Gwen’s floral perfume intoxicated him. Sebastian remembered his mother’s letter; a scented parchment he received after her passing. He’d read it so many times, folded and unfolded it, it was now tattered. He knew her words by heart, those words that would be forever etched in his memory. Someday, dear son, love will find you. I know you don’t believe it now but, in time, you will see that I’m correct. Please don’t run away from it … trust in love, dear son. And, when the time comes, follow your heart. His mother’s prediction had come true. He had found the woman he wanted to marry, have a family with, and remain faithful to for the rest of his life. How could Gwen be attracted to another man when she melted in his embrace? No matter how much she denied it, Sebastian knew she was attracted to him. Her passion ignited with every kiss; the flames stoked with every touch. Yes, Gwen’s feelings for him went deeper than she would now admit. Only time would prove him correct, but he 85

Tracy Goodwin didn’t have time. If he didn’t act now, she would marry Keir and be forever lost to him. Sebastian glanced down at her. She stood stock still in his arms. The passion they shared was real. He tasted it on her lips, felt it in her every touch. It was time she felt the magnitude of that attraction for herself. He guided her face toward him, then lifted the jade mesh that hid her eyes. She averted her gaze from his. “Gwendolyn,” he whispered as he bent and nipped her ear. He’d never called her by her full given name. The impact of his action should convey his message. He wanted her. “Why are you fighting us?” Gwen’s eyelids fluttered. His words registered slowly. Then she found her voice, “Us? There is no ‘us.’” “That’s where you’re wrong.” Gwen swallowed the lump forming in her throat. “We have a bond, Gwendolyn.” Sebastian stroked the side of her face. “You feel it, too; I can tell. No words are necessary. Your body betrays you. Will you continue to deny what you feel?” Gwen bit her lower lip. She couldn’t relent. I won’t give in. It became a chant. She repeated those four words in her mind in an effort to bolster her resolve. “Look at me, Gwendolyn.” Sebastian stroked her cheek, and she complied. His eyes mirrored the cobalt of the ocean and 86

Dance With Deception they seemed to be as rough with his desire. He brushed his lips against hers. “Kiss me, Gwendolyn.” His tone exuded profound passion. I won’t give in. He nipped her bottom lip, then licked it. “Don’t you want to kiss me?” he chided. I won’t give in. She held her breath. His tongue pursued a fiery path back up to her ear. “I couldn’t bear you denying me. Please, Gwendolyn, tell me you want to kiss me … please.” His whispers were exceptionally raspy. Before she could stop herself, the word “yes” rolled off her tongue, escaping her core in an impassioned whisper. Sebastian cradled her face in his palms, tracing the outline of her lips with his languorous thumb. “Kiss me, Gwendolyn,” he said, emphasizing the word “me.” Tentative, Gwen inched her fingers toward the nape of his neck as she leaned into him, meeting his lips with her own. She opened her mouth and began tracing his lips with her tongue, just as he had done to her lower lip. He groaned a low guttural sound before crushing her to him and capturing her mouth with his own. Gwen’s hands trailed down over his broad shoulders as her body molded to his. She had long lost her inner battle with her conscience. The sensations he ignited within her made her forget so quickly. So very quickly. 87

Tracy Goodwin Sebastian withdrew from her lips, then reached up and unpinned her hat. He shook her thick tresses free of their tight chignon and his heart skipped a beat as her mahogany curls cascaded over his hands. He’d yearned to do so since seeing her across a crowded ballroom just weeks before. He sought her gaze. It gave him permission to kiss her once more. He eased his lips over hers and teased her with his tongue, lingering at her lips before he traced a path to her temples, his kiss covering her eyelids. Savoring every moment, he eased back to her lips to taste her. Would she allow him to deepen his kiss, his exploration of her body? Sebastian took her hands in his and led her down to the lush green grass that blanketed the earth. He struggled to control his passion for her, but his arousal became greater as did his need to possess her … body and soul. His nimble fingers unbuttoned her jacket, then untied her chemise. Once open, his hands worked with dexterity to lift her breasts above her corset. When, at last, he felt her soft flesh against his palms, it was as if his hands were being seared. The catch in her throat told him she felt the magnitude of the event. She belonged to him. Sebastian caressed her milky-white breasts while further exploring her mouth. She tasted sweet. Her smooth flesh put silk to shame. He gloried at her nipples responding to his touch, pointing higher, and seeking further attention. His arousal hardened at the thought of his exploring them with his mouth. 88

Dance With Deception He tore his lips from hers and Gwen moaned her disappointment. Until he traced a path of kisses to her breasts. She stiffened. With his mouth mere inches from them, Gwen gasped. Her reaction conveyed her innocence. Sebastian knew he had awakened her inexperienced body. Her skin heated under his touch, burning with desire. His loins were in such a state of arousal that it pained him. Dear God, he had to have her. Now. His hands slid underneath her skirts, fingers roaming upward towards her thighs, toward her feminine core. Gwen tensed, her conscience warring with her heart. It was wrong, but it felt so good. She craved him, his touch, so much that she didn’t care of the consequences. Until his fingertips found the sensitive triangle between her legs and her conscience refused to remain silent. This is wrong! She clamped her hand over his to halt his exploration. “Please, don’t.” Her voice sounded strange even to her own ears. His chuckle was deep, throaty, as his lips traced a trail of kisses away from her breasts and back to her lips. The cool air brushed against her bare breasts, dousing what was left of her euphoria. She hugged her chemise tight against her chest, careful not to meet his gaze. What had she done? “Don’t become shy now,” he teased, his eyes 89

Tracy Goodwin languorous with desire. He rested her on the nape of her neck and pulled her toward him. Gwen resisted. “Sebastian, this is wrong.” Her own voice sounded foreign to her. “Please stop.” He straightened, then stared into the depth of her eyes. “This is right. And you know it.” “No, no it isn’t. You’re not my husband.” Gwen clutched her chemise tighter. “You’re not even my betrothed.” Sebastian studied her as she laced her chemise, then moved aside as she reached for her jacket and rose. “Oh, God.” Her voice was fraught with desperation. “I’ve made such a mistake. Oh, my God, what have I done?” Gwen shrugged into her jacket and buttoned it. He leapt to his feet, then straightened his posture, his intense stare unnerving. She averted her gaze from his, instead searching the thick grass for her hat and gloves. Why did she have to wear green today? She scooped up her hat, but her gloves were nowhere in sight. “How could I have done this to … to ….” With the maelstrom of emotions she was experiencing, she couldn’t remember her fiancé’s name! God help her. Sebastian swung her around and his burning gaze held hers. “To whom? To Keir?” he demanded. Gwen blinked and bit her lip. At least she could now remember the earl’s name. The sudden thought 90

Dance With Deception of her standing at the altar unable to remember Keir’s name caused a panic to surge within her. If she weren’t so vexed at this moment, she’d laugh at the absurdity of the situation. Her gaze darted to his. Anger flashed within her eyes. Just minutes before, his hooded glare was making love to her. Shame flooded her. “Oh, God!” She tore her gaze away from his and struggled to free herself from his grasp. “I shouldn’t have let this happen. I don’t know how I let this happen.” “I think a more appropriate question would be how could you walk away from me? From what we just shared?” His voice was thunderous and she was in too much turmoil to help calm his rage. Instead, she continued to ramble, “What we just shared was a—” “Mistake, yes, I heard you the first time.” His gaze bore into hers. “Why?” “I’m marrying Keir,” she whispered. “You weren’t thinking of your precious Keir when you were in my arms.” His grip on her arm tightened. “Nor were you thinking of him when my lips were covering every inch of you.” “You bastard,” she whispered. “Can’t you see that Keir no longer exists? You belong to me, not to him … never to Keir.” “My God, what have I done?” Gwen tore her arm away from him and hurried toward her mount, blinking back the tears that stung her eyes. Sebastian trailed her, step for step. “Would you like me to remind you?” he bit out. 91

Tracy Goodwin Her ears were ringing. “Remind me?” Had she heard him correctly? “Yes. I could begin with the passionate kisses we shared. Then I could remind you of the ardor with which you held me close while my tongue—” She whirled around, gritting her teeth as she shouted, “Stop! I’m in no need of reminders.” “Are you certain it has come back to you, then? I’d be happy to relive all of it – the sweet taste of your lips; your moan as my tongue explored your breasts.” “Enough!” Gwen swallowed past the hard lump forming in her throat and untied Majesty’s reins from the low branch. “There is no need to continue, your grace. I know all too well of my indiscretions. You need not humiliate me any further than you already have.” “Humiliate you?” For a moment, Sebastian seemed stunned by the accusation. Then he retaliated. “You didn’t act humiliated in my arms when your body melded to mine.” Gwen felt the heat spread over her cheeks. She wanted to ride home, but as she had no way of mounting her mare by herself, she chose to walk with the reins clenched tight within her fists. “How dare you. Have you no shame?” Sebastian bridged the distance between them, his words dripping with sarcasm. “Shall I help you mount your mare or would you like me to walk you home again?” Walk her home? To her father? Oh, no! Her conscience was screaming, ordering her to get on 92

Dance With Deception her horse and leave the man she’d just risked her father’s health for. “I won’t walk anywhere with you.” Although somewhat shaky, she was relieved her words didn’t reveal her intense fear. Sebastian helped her onto her horse without much chivalry, infuriating her even further. Gwen resisted the strong urge to slap his smug grin off of his handsome face by clutching her reins so tight her knuckles turned white. “Enjoy this moment all you want because it will never happen again, your grace,” she retaliated. “You aren’t Keir! Don’t ever forget that I am his intended, not yours.” Gwen urged Majesty down the hill, away from Sebastian. She sighed in relief, thankful he didn’t see her tears spill over her lashes. She would never give him the satisfaction of knowing how deeply she was affected by this afternoon. Although she cried, her heart about to break in half, she didn’t look back. She refused to look back. Sebastian watched her race out of sight. Poor Keir. The earl has no idea what he’s lost. And Keir had indeed lost Gwen this day. Passionate and supple in Sebastian’s arms, Gwen was also intelligent, witty, beautiful, and she made his heart ache to be with her. His resolve was stronger than ever. He would indeed marry her. What else could he do to make her realize what he already knew in his heart? She belonged to him. 93

Tracy Goodwin They’d flirted with the notion since the Stockton’s ball. After today, there was no turning back. Sebastian mounted his stallion and nudged his flanks to return home in posthaste. As he sped along the rolling green countryside, he formulated a plan. He would negotiate what would surely be the most important contract of his life and his philosophy, in both business and pleasure, was simple. He always played for keeps. Sebastian wanted Gwen. And he wouldn’t rest his pursuit until he had her.

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V{tÑàxÜ I After her encounter with Sebastian, Gwen willed time to slow itself or, better yet, stop. She no longer looked forward to attending his ball. Time, nevertheless, failed to heed her wish and the evening for the Duke of Davenport’s ball arrived. Her stomach was in knots. If facing Sebastian wasn’t enough to fill her heart with dread, the thought of spending the evening with Keir was. On this night, before Sebastian, his sister, and most of the ton, Gwen would be forced to pretend she wanted to marry the Scottish earl. Her life had turned into one big farce. If one were to add incest or murder, it could very well become a Shakespearean production. The more Gwen considered it, she was certain her life had become a Greek tragedy. The only act missing in the plot was the death scene, but she thought with sadness, that might come soon enough for her father. Gwen surveyed her attire in the mirror. Ironically, she resembled a Greek Goddess. Her bronze taffeta gown shimmered and accentuated the 95

Tracy Goodwin cinnamon highlights in her hair, coiled in curls atop her head. With the material altered above her cleavage, a small glimpse of her cream-colored flesh was visible to the naked eye. Although not improper, it was the largest amount of flesh she’d ever revealed. A pink tinge crept across her cheeks as she remembered the amount of flesh she revealed to Sebastian. Indeed, he had seen much more of her than he should have. She draped her bronze cape around her shoulders, then grabbed her gloves and reticule before glancing one last time at her reflection. “Let’s get this nightmare over with!” she said aloud, her inner voice warning her the nightmare was just beginning. **** By the time the MacAlistair carriage came to an abrupt halt in front of Kellington Manor, the humiliating ride had Gwen clutching her reticule so tight her hands were sore. Her father and Keir congratulated themselves on a perfect match so often that she felt like a possession – a prize, being passed about. Tristan helped her alight the coach, his jaw visibly tense. He’d tried numerous times to steer the conversation away from his sister’s betrothal, but failed. The brooding expression on her brother’s proud face told Gwen he was as exasperated as she felt. 96

Dance With Deception Footmen, dressed in a livery of deep navy blue and gold, greeted them. The cobalt color brought to mind Sebastian’s eyes, even though no fabric could ever rival his deep azure. They, like the man, were unique. A thought chilled her. By showing up with Keir tonight, his usually warm expression would cool … drastically. Once inside and relieved of her cape, she caught a change in Keir’s expression. He couldn’t lift his gaze above her bodice. At his leering, Gwen’s cheeks flushed and anger boiled inside of her. “Ahem,” she commanded his attention, pointing upward. “My face is up here. Perhaps you might try looking at it and not my bosom?” She had been crude but could think of no other way to stop him his offending behavior. Gwen prayed her reproof would work. Keir stopped his leering long enough to bow his head and whisper in a revolting tone, “Both you and them will be mine soon enough.” “None of them are yours,” Tristan hissed from behind. “So keep your eyes and hands off of my sister.” Keir placed her hand on his arm. Gwen attempted to pull her hand away as his other hand clamped on hers. “I’m a patient man, Tristan,” Keir said over his shoulder as he led Gwen toward the ballroom. “Our wedding night will be here soon enough.” Gwen’s heart slammed into her chest as her 97

Tracy Goodwin earlier premonition returned. The nightmare was just beginning. They entered the ballroom after their names were announced. The grand room looked magnificent. Candles illuminated the ceiling like bright stars, setting the room aglow, while gas sconces adorned the walls. Sebastian stood alone, awaiting her arrival. Anger boiled within him as he spied Gwen walking on the arm of her Scottish earl. He’d never expected she would bring Dunlop. Was this her way of getting back at him? Or was it an attempt to ensure distance between them? Victoria approached him from behind and placed her hand on his sleeve. “We must greet our guests,” she whispered. He ground his teeth as he and his sister strode towards the MacAlistair party. He studied Gwen. She met his gaze, bestowing him a slight smile while he, in turn, remained unresponsive. Gwen steeled her shoulders, her reaction revealing his anger was palpable. “Your grace, we must apologize to you and your sister.” Her tone was apologetic. “You were expecting three of us, but my father invited the earl and we had no time to notify you.” “I must say, Gwendolyn, you exert yourself far too much.” Superiority spilled from the earl’s every word. “There is no need for you to apologize. We nobles welcome unexpected guests of the same class and, besides which, your father or I would offer any apologies, not you.” 98

Dance With Deception This man was his competition? Sebastian clenched his fists. Even before Keir spoke, he had ached to punch him, yet after hearing the fop’s dress down to Gwen, he now had a reason to do so. It was apparent Victoria could read his anger, for she took his hand in hers, thus keeping Sebastian from knocking Keir out cold with one swift punch. Tristan took Gwen’s arm, his tone dripping with venom. “Come, dearest, let’s leave the men to their introductions while I get you something to drink. It is bad form that the earl hasn’t offered one yet.” Lachlan introduced Keir and Sebastian hastened to present his sister. He hailed a servant to offer his guests an array of liquor filled glasses. Once his guests seemed settled, he escorted Victoria to the far end of the ballroom. The Earl of Stratton may have just arrived, but already, Sebastian couldn’t wait for him to leave. **** Tristan led his affronted sister out onto the balcony. She clutched the brandy glass he’d given her so tightly that her glove looked stretched beyond reason. “Careful,” he warned. “You may break the glass.” Gwen loosened her grip and took an unladylike gulp of the amber liquid. Her once vibrant eyes now appeared vacant. 99

Tracy Goodwin “Why are you going ahead with this?” he asked his twin. “You can’t honestly plan to marry that fool.” “I don’t want to,” Gwen replied, feeling the color draining from her cheeks. “But I don’t see how I can escape without hurting Father.” “It is quite simple.” Tristan studied her reaction. “Refuse to marry the man.” “And what of Papa’s health?” Gwen’s voice raised an octave, belying her even-tempered nature. “Really, Tristan. I know you’re not an objective observer. You have been eager for me to go against Papa for ages.” “That has nothing to do with this, Gwen.” His tone was dire. “With Father’s help, Keir will take your soul, that which I admire most about you.” “Please, Tristan.” She rolled her eyes. “Let’s not be melodramatic.” “For God’s sake, look at how he has already diminished your spirit, after only one carriage ride and an introduction to the Duke of Davenport. What will you be like in a few months or years, let alone a lifetime?” Tristan’s words twisted in her abdomen. “I just can’t fathom why Papa would be set on this marriage if Keir wasn’t a good man? True, I never liked him but, even so, the Keir present this evening isn’t the same man we knew in Scotland. Surely you will concede to that.” Gwen was desperate to understand, to make sense of her father’s actions. Why would he want her to marry someone so vile? “Perhaps the earl is 100

Dance With Deception uncomfortable in England? Perhaps he wanted to impress the duke?” “You cannot change them, Gwen,” Tristan’s response was sympathetic. “I know you want to think the best of them, but make no mistake, this is the real Keir. Our father is either blinded by his Scottish roots or his own need to control your life.” Gwen raged. “How can you be so cruel toward him? He is our father! Have you no loyalty?” “What possible need would I have for loyalty? You bestow enough upon him for ten siblings.” Tristan sighed and placed his hands on her shoulders. “I swear to you, Gwen, it’s a mistake to marry that man.” “Then it’s a good thing you’re not the one marrying him,” Gwen whispered as she jerked away from his grasp, part of her drink sloshing about the glass and over the rim. Gwen wiped her skirt with her free hand. “Do you think nothing of the man you truly love, of Sebastian?” Tristan asked in a hushed tone. “He loves you, too. It’s plain for all to see. He is the man you should be marrying.” “I cannot discuss this with you anymore, Tristan.” She turned and crossed the terrace, leading into the crowded ballroom. Her brother was close on her heels. “Why?” he insisted and, when she ignored him, he turned her around to face him. “Is it because you can’t be honest with yourself let alone your own brother?” Gwen’s gaze locked with her brother’s, his brown eyes brimming with concern. Her anger 101

Tracy Goodwin subsided as she considered his question. During her time with Sebastian, he had skillfully seduced her and she had been more than willing to comply. He admitted to wanting her but never professed his love let alone proposed marriage. Perhaps the sole reason Sebastian wanted her was because she was unattainable? “Marrying Sebastian isn’t an option now, nor will it ever be.” Gwen downed the remaining contents of her glass in two large gulps. “I must return to the ballroom.” “No, Gwen. Talk to me before it’s too late,” Tristan pleaded. “Tell me how to make this right. How do I cry off without scandalizing our entire family, without breaking our father’s heart?” Tears welled in her eyes as Gwen used her free hand to clutch her brother’s jacket in desperation. “Please, tell me that and I will gladly cry off this instant. Please, Tristan.” Her plea was met with silence. It was clear to Gwen that even he, a brilliant attorney, knew not how to solve her dilemma. She released his jacket, taking several steps back. Tristan opened his mouth to protest, but Gwen held her hand up in warning, her eyes ablaze with anger. “No more! I must return to the rest of the wolves.” “You cannot think me one of those wolves?” A deep line etched across his forehead, proof her words had hurt him. “Of course I do.” Gwen’s hands were shaking 102

Dance With Deception as she spoke. “You’re tearing me apart, speaking of choices when there are none; at least none that won’t destroy everyone I love. Why must you dangle an apparition of happiness in front of me when I will never have it?” Her glass slipped between her grasp, shattering into tiny fragments. The shrill noise echoed in the still night air. Gwen stared at the shards of crystal scattered across the marble floor, then after a moment’s hesitation, bent down to pick them up. Tristan knelt beside her and placed her shaking hands in his own. “Don’t worry about this mess. I’ll take care of it. You go inside and freshen up.” He squeezed her hands in a protective gesture. “Can’t you see?” she implored him. “Whether or not I marry Keir isn’t my decision, not any longer. I will suffer regardless. It lies to me now to protect Papa, you, Colin from scandal.” She stood, then turned on her heel, disappearing inside the ballroom. Keir found her at once, like a dog at the hunts, and took her arm. Gwen was aware she’d just walked into the arms of her predator. There were times in which Keir treated her with cordial civility. On most other occasions, he treated her like a possession and continually sought her cleavage, licking his lips. Gwen cursed her asinine decision to cut the material at her bodice at least a thousand times and wished at least a thousand more that the night would end at once, putting her out of her misery. 103

Tracy Goodwin Sebastian scrutinized her. He hated seeing her arm resting on Keir’s as if she belonged to him. Jealousy coursed through every muscle in his body as he watched Dunlop leering at the creamy skin above her bodice. His hands itched to reach for the nearest knife and gouge his eyes out. Or, he thought with a wry smile, a fork or spoon would do just as well. Gwen’s expression was vacant, her smile counterfeit. Anxiety clawed at Sebastian’s chest. Upon further examination of her pale face and hollow eyes, his blood thinned. It was the first time he’d ever seen Gwen humorless. This would be her life with Keir. Their argument from the day before came back to him and Gwen’s reaction made sense to him at last. She must have resented him for stirring sensations within her she’d never again experience. She must have realized she would never experience such passion with her Scottish earl. Sebastian’s stride was brusque and determined as he crossed the ballroom. Gwen had managed to free herself from Keir’s grip and was standing off to the side of him. Sebastian took her arm. He didn’t ask Keir for the dance. It would have been more courtesy than the man deserved. Instead, he clapped his rival hard on the shoulder and drawled, “You don’t mind if the host steals a dance with your betrothed, do you, old man?” Before Keir could reply, Sebastian had already 104

Dance With Deception ushered Gwen in the direction of the dance floor. He bowed his head and whispered, “You don’t seem to be enjoying yourself. Is something amiss?” “Everything is as it should be.” Her eyes flashed in defiance. They reached the center of the dance floor and began to waltz. “This is how it should be,” he said, his baritone rich with emotion. “Have you been speaking with my brother?” she asked him. “No.” Sebastian grinned as he tightened his grip around her waist. “Should I speak with him?” Gwen plastered a sardonic smile on her face, then answered, “I’m certain you would find conversation with my brother riveting, for you both sound like parrots reciting the same words.” “I have an idea. Why don’t I skip the conversation with your brother and marry you instead?” Gwen’s eyes widened in shock. She stopped waltzing in mid-step. Had she heard him correctly? “Come now,” Sebastian’s husky timbre teased her as his arms guided her into another dance step. “Let’s not garner too much suspicion, keep dancing.” Her gaze searched his. Could this really be happening? The entire scene seemed like a dream: The orchestra, the candlelight, the aroma of his woodsy cologne, gliding across the marble tiles in his warm embrace. If it was a dream, she didn’t want to 105

Tracy Goodwin awaken. “Marry me, Gwen. Tristan can chaperone us to Gretna Green. The scandal will be minimal.” “We can’t elope.” She still didn’t believe her ears. “Yes, we can,” he insisted, his tall frame steadying her, sturdy as a century old oak. The music ended. Sebastian muttered under his breath about the orchestra’s bad timing before asserting, “We’ll discuss this again, later.” Soon afterward, the men gathered for brandy and cigars in the smoking room. Married and eligible men crowded the room, many of them of the older generation. Sebastian searched the room for Gwen’s father. The ill man stood among a group of older gentlemen, his expression animated as he discussed his daughter’s betrothal. He appeared like a plume fluffing its feathers. He scanned the rest of the room in search of Gwen’s brother and found him standing alone. While members of his generation were seated, gambling their family’s money at cards and discussing eligible women who were in attendance this night, Tristan glared at his father while a deep scowl marred his expression. Sebastian observed him march to the sideboard before pouring a generous amount of whiskey in a glass. Tristan proceeded to the door. Raucous laughter from his father’s group reverberated throughout the room. “An earl? Well done, Lachlan. That’s a 106

Dance With Deception splendid match,” one of the elder gentlemen said, somewhat inebriated. Tristan turned on his heel and marched towards the crystal decanter he’d abandoned just minutes before. He grabbed it and carried it out of the smoky room. Seconds later, Sebastian reached the same table and, after grabbing his own glass and whiskey decanter, he followed Tristan onto the terrace. He found Tristan sitting on a long stone bench overlooking the lawns. “Am I intruding?” Sebastian asked. The answer he received was a scowl. He held out the ornate crystal decanter he carried. “I brought a peace offering.” Gwen’s brother arched a brow, then slid to the end of the bench; a silent gesture of welcome. “I have my own, but you’re more than welcome to join me in a toast.” “What are we toasting to?” Sebastian asked as he joined Tristan on the cool stone bench. “To the misery of love and the pitfalls of family.” “My, that’s morose.” Sebastian clinked his crystal decanter against Tristan’s. They quickly consumed the contents of their glasses. Tristan extracted two cheroots from his pocket, offering one to the duke. Once lit, each man sat in silence, first inhaling, then exhaling the swirling smoke into the night air. “A fine mess we have, is it not?” Tristan said, his words slicing into the stillness. Sebastian exhaled a large puff of smoke and 107

Tracy Goodwin asked, “Which mess would you be referring to?” “The whole bloody scenario. Gwen wants you and you want her, yet she is betrothed to a damn Scotsman who doesn’t respect her one jot.” Tristan inhaled another puff from his cheroot, then exhaled, a ragged sigh escaping his throat before he continued. “All that fop wants is an heir maker, a pretty face attached to a pretty body.” “Aren’t you being a little harsh? From what I overheard from your father in the cigar room, Keir deserves knighthood.” His words were thick with Sebastian’s special blend of sarcasm. “What Keir deserves is a kick in the arse. If he leers at my sister’s bosom one more time, God knows I will call him out.” Tristan sighed. “He’s already sucking the life out of her and they aren’t even married yet.” “Nor will they be, if I have my way. I proposed to your sister this evening.” Sebastian was quick to note his confession failed to brighten his companion’s spirits. “She won’t accept your offer.” Tristan’s tone was solemn. “I spoke to her earlier this evening and she is a bloody mess. Downright guilt ridden, she is certain that the scandal of crying off will destroy our father and the rest of our damned family.” Sebastian filled his guest’s glass with more of the amber liquid as he added, “I can understand her fear.” Gwen’s twin swallowed several large gulps of his liquor before scoffing. “Our family is already ruined. Colin is gone and, if you ask me, he doesn’t 108

Dance With Deception want to return to our dysfunctional brood. My father and I share mutual dislike. The lone person who thinks we can be saved, or destroyed further, is my sister.” “So we convince her that your family is beyond repair.” Sebastian nodded before adding, “Sounds easy enough.” “If it were that simple,” Tristan mumbled. Sebastian took another sip of his drink, waiting for his companion to continue. “My father likes Gwen guilt ridden and submissive. His latest tactic is to remind her of his impending death.” Tristan stretched his legs. “He’s made it known to her that her marriage to Keir is his dying request. She’s afraid disobeying him is akin to killing him.” Continuing to cleanse his soul, Tristan’s voice turned gruff. “My sister makes excuses for him. She feels it’s his ongoing grief from our mother’s passing that makes him so harsh and cold. Gwen has convinced herself that love governs our father’s actions, even when he manipulates her.” Sebastian’s eyes narrowed at this revelation. “What do you think?” he asked, although he suspected he already knew what Tristan’s answer would be. “My father is driven by selfishness and greed. When you first knew us, Gwen was allowed to do anything she wanted, but when our father moved us to Scotland, the freedom we all enjoyed in England vanished. He was very hard on us, especially Gwen, often comparing her to other more refined young 109

Tracy Goodwin ladies. He seemed to take joy in pointing out her defects and hired her a duenna, a heartless woman, to teach her how to be a lady. Gwen felt abandoned.” “By everyone but you.” “Yes, everyone but me,” Tristan repeated. “As you know, Colin vanished. I was all Gwen had.” Tristan paused and Sebastian remained silent, wishing for him to continue. This rare glimpse into Gwen’s life was precisely what he needed. “While I was being tutored, Gwen’s pasty, sour-faced duenna was teaching her etiquette. My sister was bored out of her skull. Asking our father if she could take lessons like I did turned out disastrous.” Tristan took a quick puff of his cheroot before continuing. “He refused her of course, wouldn’t even hear of it. Scotland is where she learned rejection and isolation. We both did, although I compensated for it by refusing to please my father. Gwen, on the other hand, was more determined than ever to gain my father’s love.” “A sad life for a young girl.” Sebastian shook his head, then inhaled deeply from his cheroot. “You have no idea,” Tristan admitted. “One day, I spotted Gwen squatting on the floor in the hallway outside my classroom, spying on my lessons. My teacher didn’t notice her nor did her duenna notice she was missing. By that time, her duenna had become negligent. Instead of sitting in her room reciting table manners as instructed, Gwen was taking notes in her prim handwriting on a subject forbidden to her. At the time, we were no 110

Dance With Deception more than thirteen, but she had already read all of the books in the library. She wanted so much to answer my tutor’s questions for me. I could see her itching to speak up.” Sebastian exhaled a plume of smoke, imagining an isolated, intelligent little girl sitting on a hard, cold floor yearning to learn. “What were you being taught that day?” he asked in a whisper, shaken by the image. Tristan narrowed his eyes, as if trying to remember. “It was Latin. After that day, we began private lessons … just she and I. I would bring my notes and we would sit on a glen and review my studies.” A long silence followed. The decanter Sebastian brought held just enough color to indicate its original content. He snuffed out his cheroot in his glass. “Sebastian.” Tristan’s tone was alarming. “My father’s death knoll is hanging over her head. She won’t disobey him, no matter how much she wants to or how miserable her future with Keir will be. Gwen will break her own heart to save my father’s.” Tristan rose, then glimpsed at the bright constellations twinkling above in the black sky. He rolled the stub of his cheroot with his fingers before taking one final puff. “Do you love my sister? I want the truth.” It was a question Sebastian hadn’t been prepared to answer. He had told himself he wanted Gwen, wanted to protect her. Nothing more. Yet, deep within his heart, Sebastian always suspected 111

Tracy Goodwin the agonizing truth. He did indeed love her. After so many years of protecting the fortress that was his heart, Gwen had penetrated its scarred and hardened walls. Sebastian didn’t know how it happened, or why. Just that it had. And even though he was terrified of it, even though he knew he was exposing himself to the possibility of heartache, he refused to run away from it. Sebastian nodded, swallowing the lump forming in his throat. “I love Gwen … more than I ever thought possible.” “Then I ask that you use whatever means possible to keep her away from Keir.” Tristan tossed the remainder of his cheroot into his empty glass. “Do something, anything, before it’s too late.” Tristan skulked back to the ballroom, leaving Sebastian alone with his thoughts echoing in the silence of the cool spring evening. Sebastian’s mind raced as he wracked his brain for a scenario that would change Gwen’s mind. He must meet with her, in private. Sprinting into the ballroom in search of Gwen, he found her by Keir’s side. He watched, waiting for an appropriate time to intercede, yet she never had a free moment. It appeared as if both Keir and her father were keeping tight reins on her. Sebastian clenched his fists in frustration and went in search of his sister. Victoria must deliver a message for him. 112

Dance With Deception **** Victoria approached Gwen’s group, her heart pounding with fierce determination. She was on a mission for her brother and would take great care in seeing it completed. She sidled next to Gwen. With her head held high, she forced a bright smile at both Gwen’s father and betrothed before initiating a conversation with her friend about fashion; a subject that would drive away any man and which normally bored both she and Gwen to tears. Victoria studied Lachlan’s face as his gaze darted about the room. It was just as her brother predicted. Lachlan seemed to have forgotten her, his gaze instead fixed on Sebastian, who stood with a large group at the other side of the ballroom. Since she was so meek and since her brother was too far from her to have any influence, Lachlan seemed to feel she was no threat to his scheme. Through a fit of giggles, Victoria commented she was in need to use the powder room. Gwen picked up on her cue. They excused themselves, prattling on about hats and bows. Once inside the small powder room, Victoria locked the door behind them for privacy, then handed Sebastian’s note to Gwen. Gwen unfolded the missive containing less than three sentences and read with trembling hands. It said Sebastian needed to meet with her. All she had to do was provide Victoria with the time and place. 113

Tracy Goodwin He had ended the note with a heart-wrenching request. She owed him an answer. Biting her lower lip, Gwen contemplated the particulars. “I won’t be able to meet up with him during the day, I’m afraid. Papa has forbidden me from riding.” “Then it must be between sunset and dawn,” Tori whispered in a conspiratorial tone. “Where on earth would we meet before dawn?” Gwen’s expression turned pensive. “We mustn’t be caught.” Tori grabbed Gwen’s arm in her excitement. “I know! Meet at the small chapel on our estate. It’s not far from your manor, just over the hill a little ways.” “The chapel it is, then.” Gwen stated with aplomb, but when? Better to get it over with, put them both out of their misery. “Tonight, before dawn,” she said to Tori, adding a curt nod. It was decided. Tori turned to take her leave, but Gwen detained her with a hand on her arm. “I must return home before anyone gets suspicious. My father awakens early and Keir has been joining him for breakfast.” Her friend’s expression was wrought with trepidation. “Are you truly going to marry that man?” Gwen gave Tori a long-suffering look. “Please, Victoria, not you, too. Why must everyone make me explain myself?” 114

Dance With Deception “I thought you loved my brother.” Tears welled in her friend’s eyes. Gwen met Tori’s gaze and took the young woman’s hand. “I love your brother with my very being.” “Then why—” “I will approach my father tonight and inform him of Sebastian’s proposal. I’ll beg him to break the betrothal agreement with Keir and allow me to marry the man I love, your brother.” Victoria’s eyes grew in size. They looked as if she had been jerked awake from a terrible dream. “Then you intend to marry Sebastian!” “Darling, Tori, it isn’t that simple.” Gwen squeezed Tori’s hand in an attempt to get through to her. “My love for your brother may not be enough to convince my father to cancel this betrothal agreement to Keir. Don’t get your hopes up, or Sebastian’s for that matter.” “But you’re going to try?” Victoria pressed. Gwen hugged her friend. “I promise I will try my hardest.” Exiting the powder room, the two ladies took separate paths. When Gwen reached her party, she was relieved to learn their carriage was being drawn. She couldn’t get away from Keir fast enough. Upon entering their foyer at Ainsley, Gwen cried off drinks, claiming a headache. As she bid goodnight to her father and betrothed, Tristan announced he too wished to retire and escorted his sister to her room. 115

Tracy Goodwin She motioned him into her bedchamber, then closed the door, leaning against it for support. “Tristan, I am about to do something reckless and I need your advice.” “Dearest sister,” he drawled, inebriated from the duke’s fine spirits. “Nothing could be more imprudent than marrying Keir.” Tristan flopped onto her bed, staring at the ceiling. He looked ridiculous sprawled on her pink satin bedspread. So much so that Gwen had to nibble on her lower lip to keep from grinning. “Tristan.” She shook his boot until he looked at her. “Later this night, I’m telling Papa that I want to marry Sebastian.” Tristan bolted upright. Apparently, her statement was enough to sober him. “Tell me more.” “I want to marry Sebastian, more than I’ve ever wanted anything in life. I love him, Tristan. I’ve loved him since the moment I was reacquainted with him at the Stockton’s ball.” He watched her, despair marring his handsome features. Gwen clamped her hands over her face and let loose of the grinding pain in her chest. “This is hopeless, isn’t it?” “I’m not saying it’s hopeless.” Tristan shook his head as if clearing his thoughts. “However, we do have our work cut out for us.” “Us?” Gwen lifted her head, her eyes bright. Tristan feigned offense. “You didn’t think I’d let you go into the lion’s den without some 116

Dance With Deception assistance, did you?” At her brother’s loving concern, she wrapped her arms around his neck in a tight hug. “I’m sorry that I was so mean to you earlier.” “Don’t forgive me just yet. If Father doesn’t agree to release you of this agreement, I won’t relent until you find a way out of this marriage to Keir.” Tristan patted her back as if to accentuate each of his next words. “Scandal or no, do you hear me?” Gwen nodded. Her brother pulled his pocket watch from his vest pocket, checked the time and announced, “Keir should be leaving soon. Let’s wait for Father in his sitting room. Surprise is our best form of attack.” Tristan kissed her forehead. “No matter what Father says, know that I’m proud of you.” He gave her an encouraging smile before leading her out the door of her bedchamber and down the hall into their father’s sitting room. It wasn’t long before the elder MacAlistair strode through the door. He appeared surprised by the sight of his youngest children waiting for him. “I thought you both went to bed.” Lachlan swung the door closed. “Papa, there is something I need to discuss with you,” Gwen said, her tone clear and firm. Lachlan glared at her, a sense of dread caught in his throat. What in the hell are they up to? Whatever it was, he predicted he wouldn’t like 117

Tracy Goodwin it. “Father, please sit with us,” his daughter urged. Lachlan eased down in his favorite chair – one made out of soft, worn brown leather. He let out a long-suffering sigh. “Are you comfortable?” Gwen asked. “You are feeling fine, are you not, Father?” Tristan’s tone was unyielding. “You and Keir seemed to have a grand time at the ball.” Not knowing what else to say, Lachlan grumbled a ‘yes.’ Tristan continued his recital. “You even felt well enough for drinks. I dare say you are making a remarkable recovery.” Lachlan’s mood was going sour. He didn’t trust his voice, so instead he nodded. Gwen took his hand. “You’ve known since you arranged my betrothal to Keir that I don’t love him. Papa, I am in love with the Duke of Davenport and tonight, he has asked me to marry him.” “And you think I will consent?” He jerked his hand away. Her eyes pleaded with him. “We can both have what we want. You seeing me married, and me marrying the man I love.” Lachlan scorned his daughter. He turned, pointing a finger at his son. “What did you have to do with this, Tristan? Keir told me of your behavior toward him tonight.” “The man was leering at my sister’s bosom,” Tristan thundered. “One would think that would be enough to call off the betrothal.” 118

Dance With Deception Gwen studied her father’s reaction to Tristan’s words. His expression was menacing. To steer her father’s attention on her brother, she asked, “Papa, look at me?” After a moment’s hesitation, he turned toward her at last. Although she doubted she could appease him, she had to try one last time. “I love Sebastian and he wishes to marry me. Can’t you be happy for me?” “Did you never dare to think that the reason the duke wishes to marry you tonight is because of that cleavage you showed?” Her father jeered. Heat spread over Gwen’s cheeks. “That’s not true, Papa. He showed interest in me long before this evening’s events and I fought against it because of my obligation to you. Tonight, however, I realized I would never be happy with Keir. It wasn’t a welcome revelation, but it is the truth.” “You selfish little twit,” Lachlan spat. “Do you know who you reminded me of tonight? Your mother.” On any other occasion, Gwen would have thought it a compliment, but her father’s menacing tone insinuated there was more to his statement. Cold, hard dread settled in the pit of her stomach. “When I saw you in that gown this evening, I thought I was looking at her. You are her mirror image … down to the color of your gown and they way you styled your hair.” Gwen’s heart sank at her father’s harsh words and contemptuous expression. Dear God, was this why he hated her so much? Because she reminded 119

Tracy Goodwin him of her mother? “Papa, I didn’t mean—” “The duke is of the same seed as his father. I will never allow you to marry him, Gwendolyn. You will do as I say and marry Keir. Do you understand?” “Why are you set on Keir?” Her blood turned icy. “Sebastian has amassed more wealth, not to mention a higher title. Why are you insisting I marry into a lower station?” He dismissed her question with a wave of his hand. “Our chat is over. Both of you go to bed.” Gwen lifted her quivering chin and met his icy gaze. “I won’t marry Keir.” “You will,” he commanded, his voice low and dangerous. “You will do as I say. Our conversation is over. Go to bed, Gwendolyn.” Gwen stood and walked to the door on shaky knees. She grasped the cold brass doorknob, then turned to her brother. Tristan appeared angry and bitter. His expression told her he wasn’t ready to be dismissed by their father. Tears welled at the back of her eyes, her pride still dictating she not shed one tear in front of her father. Gwen fled to her bedchamber, slamming the door behind her before reading the clock on the mantle above her fireplace. A few hours until she must meet with Sebastian. She decided to head toward the chapel, lest her father call for her to chat after his conversation with 120

Dance With Deception Tristan ended. She rumpled her duvet and stood back. It appeared slept in. Gwen changed into a gray riding habit – one not likely to attract attention – then removed her ermine cape and gloves from her wardrobe before creeping down the servant’s stairwell. She picked up a lantern along the way, exiting the house through the servants’ wing. On her way to the stables, Gwen inhaled the scent of rain in the air. Fog hovered inches from the ground while dew clung to her skirts. The night was dark, much like her mood. Dense clouds hid the silver moon. It wouldn’t soon resurface. She saddled then mounted Majesty, racing toward the small chapel where her rendezvous with Sebastian was to take place. The cold and damp weather turned to a light mist and Gwen raised her hood over her head. With each trot of her horse’s hooves, she felt more betrayed. Tears blurred her vision. Why did her own father not want her to be married to the man she loved? Every time she admonished him, the reality of his precarious health would hit her and compound her anxiety and guilt. Gwen shivered again. Even her ermine cape couldn’t ward off the chills that shuddered throughout her body. There was no way she could marry Keir; not after his behavior tonight. Although crying off would ruin her reputation and disgrace her family, Gwen had no choice. To spend a lifetime with Keir 121

Tracy Goodwin would be sheer torture. However, in spite of her refusal to marry Keir, she vowed to protect Sebastian and his sister from her own disgrace. He had given up so much for the betterment of his sister and Gwen refused to eradicate that by eloping with him and defaming his family’s honorable name. Just when she thought her crying had subsided, a lone tear traced a path down her cheek. She had to give Sebastian up. It was the only way she could spare his family the scandal. But how could she ever make him understand? As sure as the sun would rise on the morrow, Gwen was certain Sebastian would never comprehend her reasons. The next few hours would be the most difficult of her life. Gwen blinked her eyes against the burning tears as they slowed to a canter, the small chapel now visible. Enveloped by thick fog, it appeared gothic, even more so when the moon freed itself from behind thick clouds, illuminating it with an unearthly bluish glow. Gwen’s heartbeat thudding in her ears sounded almost as loud as Majesty’s hooves pounding the hard earth. She dismounted and tied the reins of her gelding to a nearby tree, then entered the dark chapel. Squinting, her eyes adjusted to the darkness as she proceeded to the altar and kneeled. Please, God, help me. Gwen prayed for another solution, one in which 122

Dance With Deception she wouldn’t have to surrender Sebastian, yet she found no solace. There was no other way. She had to let him go. Dear God, give me strength. The creaking of the heavy oak entry door told Gwen Sebastian had arrived. She heard him place something on a pew before he walked the length of the aisle and knelt beside her, wrapping her in a tight embrace. Gwen closed her eyes and leaned into him, aware this would be the last night she would ever be in his arms. “Have you been waiting long, darling?” he asked in a soft, tender voice. Darling. Her heart thumped hard against her chest each time it beat. She imagined a lifetime of days and nights hearing Sebastian call her “darling” or a dozen equally endearing pet names. She shivered from the dampness of the chapel. Or, it could have been from her heart aching. “You’re cold. Come with me; I brought some blankets and brandy.” Sebastian wrapped a blanket around her shoulders and offered her a flask. “Sip some of this. It’ll warm you,” he said, offering her a reassuring smile. As she sipped from the flask, her hood slipped off, pooling at her shoulders. “You’re crying.” His hands trembled ever so slightly as he cupped her face. “What happened with your father tonight?” She raised her lashes, eyes wide in surprise. 123

Tracy Goodwin “Victoria told me that you would be confronting your father tonight,” he explained as he wiped a tear with his thumb. “She was much too hopeful and excited to keep the information to herself.” More tears welled in her eyes. “Victoria shouldn’t have told you. I asked her not to. I didn’t want to raise your hopes.” “It matters not. We can marry without his consent,” he suggested in a whisper. She shook her head in denial. “You would never recover from the scandal.” “I don’t care about scandal. It’s you I care about.” Inches from him, she memorized his every single characteristic … the deep azure of his eyes; the woodsy scent of his cologne; the softness of his bronzed skin. She reached for him and traced the outline of his jaw with trembling fingers. “That’s not true. You care about your sister and have reshaped your entire life to keep her safe from scandal. You can’t stop protecting her on my account.” “I can protect both of you,” he was adamant. “And I will.” Gwen walked on unsteady knees to the window, clutching the blanket around her shoulders. His words were so determined. Sebastian shadowed her. Smoothing her hair, he insisted, “I love you and I’m going to marry you.” It was the first time he said that he loved her. 124

Dance With Deception His words filled her heart to the point where she was certain it would burst. He loved her. She had longed to hear it for so long. And now that she had, now that she knew what she would be losing, a part of her wanted to accept Sebastian’s offer of protection, scandal be damned. But her conscience, that nagging inner voice she wished would shut up, wouldn’t let her be selfish. No matter how much she wanted to. Gwen had no choice but to let him go. She loved him that much. “I won’t allow your sister to suffer because of me,” she insisted, swallowing hard against the lump in her throat. He gently coaxed her around to face him. “Please don’t torment us any further.” “I can’t marry—” “You won’t marry me,” he corrected. “And I know why. You’re using my sister as an excuse because you won’t disobey your father.” “That’s not true,” she averted her gaze. She wanted to make him understand, but he never would. No matter how hard she tried. Her chest constricted and she was certain her heart was breaking into millions of tiny fragments. “You’re willing to sacrifice your own happiness, and mine, for a father who has never showed you any affection.” His tone was tinged with reproof. “Why Gwen? Tell me why.” “It’s a daughter’s duty to obey her father—” “Don’t you dare hide behind duty, 125

Tracy Goodwin Gwendolyn,” Sebastian said, clutching her shoulders. “You know what you want, now fight for it.” She struggled to control the torrent of tears threatening to overtake her. “Sebastian, you d-don’t understand.” He shook her in frustration. “Tell me then. Make me understand.” “I don’t want to hurt you.” “It’s too late for that. I’m already hurting.” Sebastian asserted, still shaking her. His words betrayed his torment and Gwen silently cursed herself for her role in his heartbreak. “Tell me why you’re doing this to us.” He wrapped her in his tight embrace, as if he decided that shaking her wouldn’t provide him with the answers he sought. “I’m sorry,” he whispered as he kissed her head, her cheek, her neck. “Please try to understand,” she begged between sobs. He rubbed the curve of her back in a soothing circular motion. “Do you love me?” he asked in a hoarse whisper. “Of course I love you.” He tipped her face toward his, his features contorted into a mask of anguish. “Then how can you even think of promising yourself to another man for all your life?” “Why can’t you see that if we elope, neither you nor your sister would recover from such a scandal?” “Damn scandal!” He pulled her closer to him. 126

Dance With Deception “Scandal will pass.” Gwen gripped the lapel of his great coat. “The ton is unforgiving and you know that. I won’t sacrifice your sister for my own happiness, no matter how much I want to marry you.” “Please don’t do this. You want me.” He kissed her closed eyelids between words. “You know how much I want you.” Sebastian’s sensual tongue trailed her cheeks, then reached her lips, the taste of her salty tears lingering on them. Her response to him was immediate and, in his passionate kiss, she could feel the desperation within him, how much he loved her. Gwen wrapped her arms around the nape of his neck and gave into the passion of his kiss with the knowledge this moment would have to last her for the rest of her life. God, how I love this man. She bequeathed her soul to him. It would never be recaptured by anyone else. When their lips parted, Sebastian held her against his heart for an inexhaustible amount of time. “I will make you happy,” he vowed, as if he were certain she had changed her mind. “I swear to you, I will. And your father will come around, in time.” Gwen felt like she was going utterly insane. He wouldn’t listen to reason. She had to end this, dash his hopes forever. But how? God, forgive me for what I’m about to do. 127

Tracy Goodwin Gathering all of her strength to recite the words, she said with finality, “You could never be happy with me, Sebastian.” Each word stabbed at her flesh like a sharp bladed knife. His hand stilled on her back. She buried her cheek against his warm chest, listening to the rhythm of his heart. Tears blinded her at the ruthlessness of her plan. “There have been many women before me and there will be many more after me. Do you honestly expect me to believe you will feel this same love for me next year? Or the year after?” Sebastian tipped her chin up, his eyes measuring her with a fiery stare. “Say you don’t believe me to be so fickle.” Silence, thick and suffocating, filled the small chapel. “Please tell me you don’t believe me capable of that. Gwendolyn?” He was desperate, his tone told her so. “I can’t tell you that.” Gwen couldn’t breathe, her hateful words choking the very life out of her. Sebastian winced at her harsh words, then released her, putting distance between them. His eyes were now flat. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered, then fled from the chapel. Sebastian stood there, stunned, as he watched her run out of his life. His world, which for a few brief moments had been sunny with bright colors and vibrant dreams, was now dark and obscure. She doesn’t believe me. 128

Dance With Deception When he first saw her, kneeling in prayer on the damp floor, the knot in his had stomach relaxed. He thought she was offering a prayer of thanks; he thought she’d agreed to marry him. But that constricting knot within his abdomen tightened once again at the sight of her swollen eyes and tearstreaked cheeks. It hadn’t subsided and he was certain it never would. Nor would he ever feel happiness again. Sebastian rode home in a state of shock. Numb, he stabled his horse, headed to his study, and poured himself a tumbler of whiskey. Another followed. Then a third. When he reached the bottom of the whiskey decanter, he’d moved onto his bottle of scotch. How can she think I’m so fickle? Sebastian looked back on his life. Gwen had been correct in saying there had been many women in his life, but that was when he was a young man. After viewing so many women humiliate themselves by chasing after his married father, he learned to view most females of the ton as greedy and manipulative. He knew of no happy marriages. Convenient, yes, lacking warmth and passion at best. In his earlier opinion, marriage was the means to an end. A way of producing an heir. Nothing more. His parents’ marriage was depraved. His mother opened her heart to his father, placing it on display for all to see, loving her husband without shame while her husband abused and openly 129

Tracy Goodwin cheated on his wife, further humiliating her by inviting his mistresses to their London parties. Was it any surprise Sebastian had no faith in love, let alone the institution of marriage? Until he met Gwen. What he wouldn’t give for the chance to relive his life, to live for Gwendolyn or for the promise of her. Hell, if he’d had the foresight to know how she would fill his heart, he would have lived like a monk until he found her. For the first time since his mother’s death, tears fell freely. Sebastian wept for lost love and unanswered prayers. Most of all, he wept because he had finally experienced the love his mother promised him. And Sebastian didn’t want to relinquish her last precious gift.

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V{tÑàxÜ J Gwendolyn was cold, stiff … dead. Surely, a part of her had died this evening? Her tears had subsided, but she was certain more would follow. Her own spiteful words haunted her, causing her head to throb. How could she have said such dreadful things to him? She walked into her bedchamber, changed into a sleeping gown, then sat at her vanity to minister her hair before retiring. In between strokes, she froze, staring at her reflection. You are such a coward! How could she let Sebastian think she didn’t believe he loved her? The very life drained from her as she recalled the gentle words of love he spoke to her. When she closed her eyes, she could taste his kiss, salty from her tears, and feel the warmth emanating from his tall frame. She tossed her brush onto her vanity before crossing the room and collapsing in the cozy armchair set in front of the roaring fire. The flames didn’t warm her. A hollow coldness 131

Tracy Goodwin had replaced her heart. Dear God, what did I do to him? She would never forget the torment etched in his face; the pain clouding his mournful eyes, and how her parting words had visibly stung him. Gwen would never forgive herself. Nor would she live in a world where Sebastian believed her own viscous accusations. But how could she tell him she didn’t mean what she said? To see him again, to be forced to walk away from him again, would kill her, of that she was certain. A missive! The thought struck her like a bolt of lightening. It was the only way she could spare both herself and Sebastian from further torment. Gwen rose and headed to her writing desk. Once seated, she grabbed a blank piece of parchment, then dipped her quill in ink. Words tumbled onto the page. Dearest Sebastian, My parting words already haunt me. I don’t doubt your love for me and I never will. My heart was breaking and I was too cowardly to speak the truth. Instead, I opted for an easy way out at your expense. For the first time since the chaos of my betrothal began, I didn’t base my decision upon my duty to my father. Instead, I did what was best 132

Dance With Deception for you and your family. As you have devoted so much of your life to Victoria’s happiness and protection, I pray that you will come to understand my actions. I am so very sorry I caused you pain. I will always regret my parting words. And I will always love you. Gwendolyn By the time she signed her name, her hands were shaking. Before her cowardice brought second thoughts to her mind, Gwen donned a robe and glanced at the ivory clock on her mantle. Daybreak. Slipping out of her rooms in search of a manservant to dispatch him with the missive, Gwen found the butler in the morning room opening the heavy curtains. Dawn had brought an end to the misty weather of the night before. After instructing him, she returned to her bedchamber where she could hide from the sun, certain Mother Nature was mocking her with such a bright sunrise. She wrapped herself in her warm, down duvet cover and, too tense to sleep, curled into her chair before the fire. When she drifted at last into slumber, it was for no more than a few hours. The sound of a maid outside her bedchamber stirred her. For one brief moment, Gwen felt as if her life was normal. Reality quickly set in, chilling her body 133

Tracy Goodwin like a sudden gust of wind. Sebastian awakened love within her and a thousand other glorious sensations she never before knew existed. Her body felt hollow without him. A welcomed numbness spread throughout her, making it easier to confront her uncertain fate. Perhaps it would ease her turmoil through the confrontation she would have with her father? She was steadfast in her refusal to marry Keir and knew her father wouldn’t approve. Although she feared he would never forgive her, she no longer cared. Without Sebastian’s love, she didn’t care about anything. Gwen wrapped herself in a warm robe, then steeled her shoulders. It was time to face her father. She tugged at the bell pull and waited for her maid. Jane’s cheerful good morning was almost too much for Gwen to abide. “You look like you had a restless night, miss. Shall I fetch you some warm chocolate and biscuits?” “Thank you, Jane, however I don’t believe anything will lessen my horrid headache.” “We shall give it a try, miss.” Jane’s perseverance made Gwen smile in spite of herself. “Would you like me to open the drapes before I fetch your tray?” Gwen cringed at the thought of the blinding sunshine. “No, thank you.” She closed her eyes and sank into her overstuffed chair, wishing she could crawl back under her covers and never come out. One step at a time, she would tackle her future. She rose, then threw open her wardrobe door, 134

Dance With Deception surveying her selection. What does one wear to her execution? **** Sebastian awoke from the sweet oblivion of sleep to find himself sprawled on his sofa with an empty whiskey decanter nestled in the crook of his arm. He rolled onto his side, then squinted from the harsh sunlight pouring into the room. If only he’d had the foresight to close the drapes before he passed out. Lifting his throbbing head from the armrest, a moan escaped his throat. The cragginess of his own voice startled him. He placed the empty decanter on a gilded table with a head-splitting thump, then stumbled to the pull and rang for his butler. Winston entered the room; the dignified man showed no signs of shock at seeing the disheveled state of his master. In a whisper, so as to limit the throbbing in his head, Sebastian instructed the man to bring some coffee up to his suite. It took an eternity to reach the safety of his bedchamber. Thank God these blinds were closed! He collapsed onto his mattress with a deep sigh of appreciation and relief. To his dismay, his inebriated state failed to dull his memory of his last encounter with Gwen. Sebastian ordered himself to stop his insanity, his self-pity. He couldn’t continue to pine over someone he would never have regardless of how 135

Tracy Goodwin deeply he wanted her. In addition, he refused to drink himself into oblivion every time he thought of her. Lord knows if he did that, he’d drink himself to an early death. There was a faint knock on his door. Sebastian groaned in answer. His butler entered carrying a tray of coffee and a plate of dry toast. He set it upon the breakfast table in front of the closed drapes. “Winston, you are a saint,” Sebastian muttered before his butler exited his bedchamber. Sebastian downed his coffee, then bathed, emerging from his bath feeling much more civilized with one resolution planted in his mind. He must do his damnedest to forget Gwendolyn MacAlistair. And the solitary way to accomplish this feat was to jump back into his old life; the bachelor’s life he had abandoned so long ago. Gwen believed he was the same man carousing around with the voluptuous, eligible women of the ton, so why the hell shouldn’t he behave like it? The first thing on his agenda was to open his London townhouse and spend each of his evenings gambling at White’s, attending the theater, and enjoying ever other activity he could think of. He’d do his damnedest to ensure there would be no free time to pine over the woman he lost. Why wait? Tonight would be the perfect evening to begin. He yanked the bell pull, and when his valet entered the room, his pulse quickened as he issued orders to prepare his evening clothes and ensure his coach would be prepared for an outing. In keeping with the theme of the day, Sebastian 136

Dance With Deception stalked into his masculine office. Keep busy and you’ll be fine. He sat behind his massive oak desk, removed his spectacles from his jacket pocket and slipped them onto the bridge of his nose. Just as he’d picked up his first contract to review, his butler knocked on the door. “Yes, Winston, what is it?” “Excuse me, your grace. A letter came for you, but I’m afraid the messenger insists on handing it to you himself.” “Who is it from?” Sebastian asked over the top edge of the document he held to read. “He says it’s from his mistress, your grace.” Frustrated, Sebastian slammed the contract on his desk. “And who the hell would that be?” His butler appeared unnerved as he shifted his weight before replying, “Miss MacAlistair, your grace.” Sebastian’s pulse quickened. “Send him in,” he snapped, his mind racing. A man he recognized as Gwen’s butler strode into his office, with an air of confidence. “Excuse me, your grace.” He bowed, approached the desk, and handed him the letter. “Miss MacAlistair asked me to deliver this missive to you. She specified that no reply is necessary.” Sebastian nodded, not trusting his voice. The man bowed before exiting the room, closing the door behind him. Good God, she wrote to me. The pounding in his head returned in full force. 137

Tracy Goodwin Sebastian ripped the seal and read the missive at least three times before putting it down on his desk. He picked it up again, read it a fourth time before rising and walking to his window. He surveyed his lush, colorful grounds, but all he could think of were five specific words in Gwen’s note; the five most important words to him. I will always love you. His earlier plans to forget her vanished. Of course he could try to numb the pain of living without her, but there would always be a hole in his heart where she had once been. Sebastian wracked his brain for a solution. She wouldn’t elope with him; therefore, he must attain her father’s permission for their union. But how? Lachlan MacAlistair would never consent, not easily that is. Sebastian would need to trick the old man into thinking there was no choice. “Damn.” Sebastian cursed aloud. He picked up a jade paperweight from his desk and rolled it between his palms. Think! What are you going to do? What can you do? Slowly the seeds of deception formed. If Lachlan believed his daughter was compromised, then he’d have no choice but to insist the guilty man marry Gwen to avoid a scandal. And so, Sebastian’s plan planted roots. With her wedding less than a month away and if Lachlan was as manipulative as Tristan said he was, the old man would probably try to pawn the imaginary child off as the earl’s. 138

Dance With Deception As it was too late for him to seduce her, Sebastian would proclaim he had compromised Gwen weeks ago. If asked when and where this fictional sin was committed, he would mention the time he’d returned Gwen following the rainstorm. It wasn’t much of a stretch of his imagination for he’d wanted to take her virginity then and on many more occasions. If, God forbid, Lachlan mentioned her imaginary defiling to Gwen, the memory of lying on the grass with breasts bare as Sebastian’s mouth explored every inch of them just days before would be sufficient to garner a blush from her. She may even look guilty enough to convince the man the unthinkable did happen. Sebastian considered the old man’s health. Lachlan appeared fit the evening before, but if he was indeed ailing, a possibility existed Sebastian’s duplicity could cause him to suffer a relapse. Without hesitation, he composed a note to his family doctor, requesting they meet at Ainsley as a precaution. His conscience told him his actions were wrong. He was, after all, manipulating people the way his father had. And Sebastian had long hated the man for it. But what other choice do I have? Besides, Sebastian convinced himself, this situation was different. He loved Gwen, and his father never loved anyone but himself. He was protecting Gwen. He was also protecting his own heart. After fighting against love, it had found him 139

Tracy Goodwin and Sebastian refused to let it escape. And he would tell her the truth. However, before doing so, he’d give her time to discover what he knew all along. They belonged together. Sebastian would move heaven and earth to marry her and would love her more than life itself. As God is my witness I will make this up to her. He strode out of his office and walked with determination to the stables, his mind racing with the particulars of his plan. He arrived at Ainsley and pounded at the bronze doorknocker, his heart lodged in his throat. The butler opened the door and Sebastian bounded into the foyer. “I’m here to see your master.” “Forgive me, your grace, but he instructed me that none of the family is accepting visitors today.” “Why not?” The butler’s eyes widened; an indignant expression spread over his features. “I don’t ask such questions, your grace.” Sebastian paused, fighting to keep his temper in check. “At the very least you can tell me if he is well.” “Yes, your grace. My master appears well.” Sebastian peered into the hallway. “Where is his daughter?” “In her rooms, your grace. She hasn’t come down yet, aside from handing me the letter I delivered to you earlier.” “I must speak with Mr. MacAlistair now.” 140

Dance With Deception “Your grace, he instructed—” “Yes, you’ve already told me. What is your name?” Sebastian spoke with cool authority. “Norris, your grace.” “You’ve done your job well, Norris, and I will take the responsibility for disturbing him. Tell him I am here.” Sebastian’s tone brokered no argument. He wasn’t leaving without a betrothal arrangement. Norris bowed his head. “Yes, your grace.” After waiting for what seemed like an hour, the butler returned at last and escorted Sebastian to Lachlan’s study. Norris rapped on the door before opening it and waving Sebastian inside. “You’re dismissed, Norris.” Lachlan’s tone was thick with disapproval. Sebastian entered and spotted Gwen’s father sitting on an overstuffed chaise, his feet resting on the matching ottoman. He closed the leather bound volume he’d been reading and placed it on his lap. The healthy pink tinge in the man’s cheeks provoked a sigh of gratitude. Although Lachlan looked tired, he seemed quite alert with a sharpness about his eyes. However, in spite of the man’s robust physical appearance, Sebastian remained relieved he’d instructed Dr. Danbury to meet him. Lachlan’s failure to verbally acknowledge his presence caused an annoyance to pulsate through Sebastian’s veins. Their meeting was off to a bad start. And Sebastian was certain it was a deliberate snub. Damned if he’d let his opponent see weakness, Sebastian crossed the room, his posture tall and 141

Tracy Goodwin countenance proud, before halting a couple of paces from the old man. “I’m here to discuss your daughter.” Lachlan’s response was hostile. “We have nothing to discuss where she is concerned!” “I disagree with you.” Although Sebastian bristled at Lachlan’s hostile tone, he remained composed, determined to hold control over their summit. “There is much we need to discuss.” Lachlan eased up as if it took a great feat of his body and pointed a crooked finger at him. “I will never let my daughter marry you. You may be a duke, but that title means nothing to me. When I look at you, I see your father. You are a little more polished than he, putting on an air of respectability, yet the same man lies beneath.” Sebastian clenched his jaw. He wished he could challenge the man to pistols at dawn for his scathing rebuff, yet he would settle for beating him raw. “What?” Lachlan scorned. “The great duke is at a loss for words?” Sebastian grinned, predicting it would hurt Lachlan’s ego. “Why do you hate me so much, old man? Did my father make one of his conquests out of someone you loved?” He’d spoken half-heartedly, his words meant to ridicule, yet the visible change in Lachlan’s countenance told Sebastian he struck a nerve. For just the briefest moment, the elder man’s eyes widened, showing a hint of vulnerability. But Lachlan rallied, fury flashing in his dark eyes. “My daughter will never be the Duke of Davenport’s 142

Dance With Deception conquest.” “No, she will be my wife.” Sebastian’s scorching gaze locked on Lachlan’s and the man’s lower lip trembled. It was slight, but evident nonetheless. Lachlan’s cheeks drained of their color. It was the first time since Sebastian’s arrival that the man appeared ill. However, the man’s vulnerability vanished, replaced by an expression like that of a wild animal stalking its prey. “Unlike you, your father was never a lovesick fool.” Sebastian no longer suffered from remorse for the lie he was about to tell. Lachlan MacAlistair didn’t deserve his daughter’s devotion. Clearly, she was nothing more than a pawn in his little game of love and marriage. “I’m neither lovesick nor a fool.” Keeping his demeanor casual yet confident, Sebastian commandeered the chaise Lachlan had earlier vacated. He tipped his head to the side, then asked, “Can the same be said for you?” “Why you—” Sebastian clucked his tongue. “Now, now. Don’t insult your future son-in-law. Sit and listen, old man. I’m about to tell you how our little saga will end.” Color painted Lachlan’s cheeks a deep crimson. He stood still, defiant. “Have it your way.” Sebastian waved a hand at the man. “Stand if you’d like however, make no mistake, I will marry your daughter. She is, after all, carrying my child.” 143

Tracy Goodwin The horrible falsehood flew about the room like a mighty gust of wind gaining momentum. Lachlan’s fisted hand sliced through the air with a loud whoosh. “You bastard!” Sebastian ignored the man’s outburst. “Gwen’s betrothal to Dunlop will be called off at once.” “What in bloody hell do you think will happen to her reputation once word leaks out that her betrothal to Keir is revoked and she is to marry you?” It was the first time Lachlan seemed concerned about his daughter’s well being. “The first thing the ton will believe is that you compromised her.” “I will handle the ton,” Sebastian assured him. “God damn it!” Gwen’s father paced the length of the room, then stopped and whirled around to face his adversary. “You forced her, didn’t you?” Sebastian leapt from his chair with so much force it slid backward several inches. “I did no such thing! Get that straight and never again make such an absurd accusation. Think me a bastard if you must. Think me unscrupulous or unworthy, but never think me a rapist.” He stood inches away from Lachlan, boring into the man’s eyes with his venomous glare. “I will spend the rest of my life atoning for my sins; rape isn’t one of them.” Lachlan turned away, stomping to the fireplace, then leaning against the mantle. “When did this occur?” Lachlan asked without the courtesy of facing him. Sebastian muttered under his breath; it was just 144

Dance With Deception as he had suspected. The loathsome man was calculating his daughter’s due date knowing full well that if the date of her seduction were close enough to her wedding date with Keir, Dunlop would raise the imaginary child as his. A wave of hatred unlike any he’d ever known washed over him. “Gwen and I became intimate days after the Stockton’s ball,” Sebastian countered. Lachlan scoffed. “You can’t expect me to believe that.” “I don’t care what you believe.” Sebastian found this line of questioning infuriating. He halfexpected the man to ask how the seduction took place. What must he do next, he wondered; describe in detail the act of making love? With a great effort not to reach across the room and slap Gwen’s father, Sebastian responded with the story he had rehearsed on the way over. “It occurred on my grounds. The day she got caught in the rain.” Lachlan stalked over to the bell pull and rang for his butler. “I will not allow you to be present when I speak with my daughter. Wait downstairs.” “I’m not going anywhere.” Sebastian shook his head, his tone vehement. “And you will not, under any circumstances show Gwen any disrespect.” “I will do as I damned well please!” Lachlan boomed. “Not, if you value your teeth,” Sebastian said in a controlled voice as he walked toward his foe. “If you fail to treat your daughter, the future Duchess 145

Tracy Goodwin of Davenport, with the respect she deserves, I will knock every blasted incisor out of that mouth of yours. I’ll make sure you won’t utter a word for at least a month. Have I made myself clear?” Lachlan spat, his spittle landing close to Sebastian’s shoes. “Respect? No one will respect her once the gossip reaches the ton. She can’t even be married in a church for God’s sake. She will be condemned by everyone.” “Don’t say another word about condemnation. This whole conversation could have been avoided, if you had listened to her last night, instead of continuing to play God with our lives.” Sebastian cursed Lachlan to his rotting core. “How in the hell do you know about our conversation?” Sebastian crossed his arms, his stare unswerving. “You don’t know Gwendolyn at all.” He turned away from Lachlan, disgust forming a large, hard knot in his throat. The knock on the door announced Norris. Once he entered the room, the man took an immediate step backward, as if the tension between the two men was palpable. “Bring my daughter to me,” Lachlan ordered. “Yes, sir.” The butler cleared his throat, “Excuse me, your grace …” Standing with his hands on his hips and staring at the fireplace grate, Sebastian nodded his head in acknowledgment. “Yes.” “Dr. Danbury wanted me to inform you that he’s waiting for you in the parlor.” 146

Dance With Deception “Thank you, Norris.” Sebastian caught sight of Lachlan’s gaping mouth and shrugged. “I came prepared in case your health failed.” Lachlan’s eyes narrowed to mere slits as he strode to his chaise, then collapsed in defeat, Sebastian hoped. They awaited Gwen’s arrival in silence as tension, like an inferno, sizzled in the room. **** Gwen opened the door to her father’s study, her heart thumping at a maddening pace. She took pains to make her tone sound light. “I’m glad you called for me, Father, as I was just looking for you. I must discuss something with you.” At first, hidden from her view, Sebastian cleared his throat, then reached and closed the door Gwen’s heart skipped several beats at the sight of him. What would cause him to meet with her father alone? The room began to spin as she bridged the distance to the fireplace mantle and leaned against it for strength. “I-I apologize,” she said, struggling to regain her composure. “I was unaware you were here.” Gwen’s mind raced. Dear God, he’s here! The room continued to spin and she silently urged her taut nerves to settle down before she swooned. Sebastian’s gaze remained fixed on hers. His expression was loving, concerned, protective and almost too much for her to endure. 147

Tracy Goodwin “Be seated, Gwendolyn.” Her father’s frosty tone gave her pause. His stare was cold and intense and a shudder wracked her body at what was to come. She obeyed, walking on weak knees to the sofa. “What is all of this about, Papa?” The door burst open. All the occupants turned their heads toward the entrance and stared as Tristan bounded into the study. “Norris said there was a family meeting in here.” Tristan’s gaze traveled from his sister and father to their guest. He nodded to the duke. “Forgive my abrupt entrance, Sebastian; it’s always good to see you. What is all this about?” “This doesn’t concern you, Tristan,” Lachlan bellowed. “Leave at once.” Tristan strode in defiance to the sofa, joining his sister. “You know I don’t take orders well, Father.” He squeezed Gwen’s hand in support. Silence entombed the small room. “Now, why this little tête-à-tête?” Tristan asked his sister. “I don’t know.” Gwen found her voice, grateful Tristan had stayed. “I just arrived myself.” Only the tick-tock of the grandfather clock interrupted the forced hush that had again befallen them. Gwen’s father scrutinized her features, trembling hands, and over-bright eyes. His face remained remote and foreboding, unnerving her. She took a deep breath and rose, addressing her father. “Excuse me for a moment.” 148

Dance With Deception Ignoring the man’s obvious discontent, Gwen crossed the study, then stood facing Sebastian. She whispered, “If you’re here to save me from marrying Keir, you needn’t go any farther with this—” “Don’t,” he whispered in warning. “Don’t tell me that you’re fulfilling your duty by marrying that—” “I’m not. Not marrying him, that is.” Gwen glanced over Sebastian’s shoulder. Her father’s expression conveyed she was running out of time. “My refusal is what I came to discuss with my father, so you needn’t involve yourself or your sister in my mess.” Sebastian’s eyes danced with surprise. “You’re not marrying him?” “What are the two of you whispering about?” Lachlan roared. Sebastian turned toward Gwen’s father and brother who were gaping at them, their curiosity evident. His exasperated sigh conveyed that privacy was needed. He took Gwen’s hand and led her to the hallway. “Excuse us. We’ll just be a moment.” Lachlan jerked to his feet. “You’re not taking my daughter one inch out of this room unaccompanied.” “Wait here.” Sebastian muttered to Gwen as he released her hand. He turned on his heel and walked to her brother, grabbing the back of Tristan’s coat, then lifting him up off the sofa. “We won’t be alone,” he assured him as he 149

Tracy Goodwin thrust Tristan toward the door. “Ah, yes,” Tristan said, now catching on to the game. “I must be the chaperone.” Lachlan glared at his son. “Don’t leave them alone, Tristan!” “Yes, do not leave us alone, Tristan,” Sebastian growled before shutting the door behind them. He grabbed Gwen’s hand, issuing his next edict over his shoulder as he led her away from the door. “Leave us alone, Tristan.” Tristan protested, “But you just said—” “Never mind what I just said, just leave us!” Sebastian halted in mid-step, his annoyance apparent. Tristan reached for the door handle, in an apparent attempt to return to the study. Sebastian clasped his shoulder to stop him. “Not in there, man! Go somewhere else. I’ll get you when we’re done.” “Done with what?” the younger man asked, his arms now crossed over his chest. Sebastian let out an impatient sigh, then took Gwen’s hand again and led her down the hall. “Sebastian, where are we going?” she asked, her brow furrowing in confusion. He opened doors in search of a room where they could speak privately. “Sebastian?” Gwen dug her heels in. “Why is it that every door I open is a bedchamber?” he muttered under his breath. Tristan had followed them step for step. “That is a very good question for you are not taking my 150

Dance With Deception sister into a bedchamber. That is not negotiable.” “Spoken like a true attorney,” Sebastian mumbled. He added in an exasperated tone, “Don’t you have any rooms in this wing that aren’t bedchambers?” “Yes,” Tristan replied with a smirk. “We just left one, with my father sitting in it.” Sebastian expelled another breath before speaking. “This is wasting far too much time. You,” he said to Gwen, “come with me.” Then, pointing to a large window at the far end of the hall, Sebastian looked at Tristan. “We will be at this end of the hall, and you will be at that end of the hall. I need to speak with your sister in private.” “Oh, you need to speak with her. Ah, yes, well you had me worried there with all of the opening and closing of boudoir doors.” A lazy smile draped across his rugged features. It was evident he was enjoying this too much for Sebastian’s sake. Sebastian rolled his eyes at the younger man’s antics, then escorted Gwen to the other end of the hall. As they approached the large window, his grip softened and Gwen at long last enjoyed the prickly sensations his touch always awakened in her. Just the night before, she’d believed that he would never touch her again, and now, he was holding her hand. “Sebastian, why are you here?” she dared ask. “Never mind that.” His tone was gentle. “What did you mean about not marrying Dunlop?” Gwen opened her mouth to respond, but he interrupted her. “No, that’s not as important as your 151

Tracy Goodwin health. First, tell me if you’re well.” He touched her cheek. “You look so pale.” She leaned against the wall to steady her weak knees. Deep worry lines etched his strong features and she longed to smooth them. Instead, she reassured him, “There’s no need for concern.” “I will always be concerned about you.” His words were rough with emotion. “Is that why you came here today?” “Yes.” His thumb caressed her cheek. “I considered it in your own best interests to marry the man you love; the same man who loves you to distraction.” Gwen grinned. “To distraction? I can’t think of anyone who I have distracted to this point.” He stepped closer toward her and she could feel the heat emanating from his body. Her pulse quickened. “You can’t? Not even one?” “I never knew I distracted you.” Sebastian returned to his initial question. “Did you really decide against marrying Dunlop?” “I refuse to marry Keir.” Her voice lowered to a whisper. “So you needn’t involve yourself or your sister. This is my scandal, not yours.” He leaned to whisper in her ear, “I will gladly share everything, including scandal, with you.” Gwen drew back, her brown eyes beseeching him. “No, think of Victoria.” “What if I told you that I have a plan?” He ran his fingers up and down her spine. The motion made her skin tremble with excitement. “A plan?” 152

Dance With Deception Sebastian pressed his forehead against hers. Her whole body responded, tingling from his closeness; a closeness she never again thought she would experience. “Yes, even I can come up with a plausible plan from time to time.” She frowned. “Couldn’t you have come up with your plan earlier? Say two days earlier, before I broke both of our hearts?” “I wish I had.” He buried his face in her hair. “Someday, I’ll explain why it took me so long. Until then, there can be no more excuses. This is your chance to marry for love.” He kissed the top of her head. “I’ll give you the world if you let me. Just trust me.” “I do trust you.” Gwen backed away mere inches, gazing into his azure eyes. “Trust has nothing to do with why I don’t want you involved in this. Think of the repercussions.” Sebastian held her cold hand in his, infusing warmth. “Leave them to me. I have—” “You have a plan.” A grin tugged at the corners of her lips. “Smart woman! I knew there was a reason I wanted you as my wife.” Sebastian caressed her hand with his thumb. The small motion caused waves of excitement to ebb and flow throughout her body. “I can make this right, Gwen, and minimize the scandal. You must place your trust in me.” His words were rough with emotion. Gwen felt as if she were about to jump off a 153

Tracy Goodwin cliff. How could scandal be minimized? “Are you certain you are willing to risk sacrificing so much?” “If you only knew the lengths I would go to; the risks I would take for you.” His timbre was rough with emotion. “The only way I will agree to this” she countered with firm resolve, “is if you agree to put your sister first. I don’t want her to suffer on my account.” “You drive such a hard bargain,” he teased. She grabbed his lapel and leaned into him. “I am serious. On this, I will not compromise.” Sebastian again pressed his forehead against hers. “You have my word.” “All right, then.” Gwen squeezed his hand as she whispered, “Ask me once more.” His intent gaze was fixed upon hers. He wet his chiseled lips, then spoke with quiet emphasis, “Gwendolyn MacAlistair, will you marry me?” His proposal sounded like music to her ears. “Yes, I will marry you.” “It’s about bloody time!” He wrapped his arms around her, pressing his lips to hers in a long, passionate kiss. Sebastian offered his soul in that kiss. When he withdrew, Gwen groaned her disappointment. He kissed her forehead. “There will be much more time for that, my love. First, we must speak with your father and get ourselves betrothed.” “My father looked so angry with me earlier. Can you be certain that his health can take such news?” she asked with concern. 154

Dance With Deception “No, but I summoned Dr. Danbury lest his services be needed. He’s waiting downstairs.” Gwen embraced him. “I love you all the more after hearing that.” A low, “Ahem,” from Tristan brought them out of their private meeting. Gwen’s blush heightened as she glanced at her brother who, in turn, averted his gaze by meticulously inspecting his fingernails. “Why, Tristan,” Sebastian addressed his future brother-in-law. “I had forgotten you were standing there.” “I can’t imagine how that could have happened,” Tristan drawled in a satirical tone. “We should return to Father. Heaven knows he may have his ear pressed against the door trying to ascertain what’s going on out here.” “Tristan!” Gwen admonished. Sebastian’s deep azure gaze captured hers once more. He squeezed her hand and his unspoken message spoke volumes. They would face her father as a united whole.

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V{tÑàxÜ K Lachlan no longer needed to question his daughter as to whether or not the Duke of Davenport had compromised her. Gwendolyn’s shameful behavior in his very room confirmed it. He had watched his daughter with great care during her exchange with Sebastian in the corner, disgusted by her unguarded and almost intimate conversation with him. History was repeating itself. Lachlan slammed his fist upon the fireplace mantle. He always thought that if he were strict with Gwendolyn, he would squash the characteristics he so despised in her mother. Damn that girl! Like mother, like daughter. He paced across the Persian rug, rubbing the knots of tension in his neck. His great scheme had failed because of Gwendolyn. Lachlan cursed himself for his error in judgment. They should have remained in Scotland. What was he thinking bringing Gwendolyn to the same place that her mother— Stop this at once! His inner voice bellowed. 156

Dance With Deception He refused to give into defeat just yet. Although his plans for making Keir a legitimate member of his family had failed, he could still have the last laugh. Lachlan curled his lips into a contorted smile. To hell with all of them! It was time he revealed the secrets that so many struggled to keep from the light of day. It was past time they all knew what he had done. Having come to his decision, Lachlan returned to his seat. He was much calmer as he picked up the book he’d been reading before his unwelcome visitor arrived. He would let the wedding between Montgomery and Gwen proceed without a hitch. His wedding present to the happy couple would be something neither would forget. It will destroy all they hold dear. **** Sebastian’s scheme centered on showing the ton that not only had he won Gwen’s heart, but that their families wholeheartedly supported their betrothal as well. “We won’t act shamed; we won’t hide anything from the ton. That would only cause gossip and speculation. Instead, Gwen and I will share our appropriate two dances at each of the upcoming balls this week. She and Victoria will go shopping together while Tristan and I will be seen in White’s. The ton will see that she fell in love with a duke 157

Tracy Goodwin with a large fortune. Common sentiment will be that she has made quite an improvement in her situation. In other words, they’ll be quick to see our marriage as we present it to them.” “I’m not donating one pence to this debacle.” Lachlan pursed his thin lips. Sebastian was relieved he’d asked Gwen to check on Dr. Danbury while he discussed the particulars with her father and brother. The elder man was merciless. He studied Lachlan, his eyes ablaze with silent warnings. “I will pay for all of Gwen’s gowns and other necessities for the wedding. Everything prepared for her wedding to Dunlop will be burned. Better yet, we’ll donate all of the fabrics to the less fortunate.” “When will this joyous event take place?” Tristan inquired. “In a fortnight.” Lachlan chortled. “It’s impossible! You’ll never accomplish everything in time.” “We can and will.” Sebastian smiled with confidence. “I employ a seamstress for Victoria. As we retain her for a small fortune, I am certain she’ll be more than happy to please her wealthiest clients. We will have the ceremony at my estate, inviting all the prominent families. My staff will take care of the decorations and arrangements.” “Tristan?” Gwen’s brother perked up. “May I count on you to accompany your sister to all functions between now and the ceremony? Your father is ill, after all, and will be physically unable 158

Dance With Deception to do so.” “Of course, I’d be happy to,” Tristan obliged, an air of satisfaction spreading over his face. Sebastian chose his next words with great care. “Lachlan, my man, you will be the portrait of a proud, happy and approving father.” He projected an ominous expression, warning old Lachlan there was to be no negotiation on that subject. “Tristan? Why don’t you walk me downstairs and we can discuss further details?” “Of course.” Tristan leapt to his feet. As the two men descended the grand staircase, Sebastian asked, “I need you to handle the dissolution of your sister’s betrothal contract to the earl. Negotiate a sum that will convince Keir to release Gwen from the contract. I will pay whatever it takes.” “Your pockets may not be deep enough, if I know Dunlop.” Tristan pushed his hair out of his eye. “Rest assured, they are more than deep enough.” Sebastian’s voice was tinged with a steely edge. “I don’t care how much money I have to pay him, just make certain that by the end of the meeting, he’s out of your sister’s life. I’ll have a bank draft delivered to you at the first opportunity.” Gwen was beside herself, waiting downstairs in the sitting room, when she heard their voices. She sprinted down the marble corridor, passing Norris on the way, with Dr. Danbury tailing her. “What happened? Is everything all right?” Sebastian’s tone was steady. “Your father 159

Tracy Goodwin appears well. Still, Dr. Danbury, would you mind checking on him just to ensure Mr. MacAlistair’s health is stable?” The portly doctor nodded. “Of course, your grace, I’d be happy to.” Gwen called to her butler to show the doctor into her father’s study. “I thought I told you to relax,” Sebastian whispered. “As if that’s possible.” Gwen’s frantic heartbeat wouldn’t let up until she knew more. “Please, will one of you tell me what happened?” “Father and I will meet with Keir tomorrow and dissolve your betrothal agreement. Then you and Sebastian will marry in a fortnight.” Her brother’s tone was proficient, as if he’d broken such betrothal agreements thousands of times. “So it’s not official?” Gwen could feel the frown lines in her forehead etching deeper. “Something can still go wrong?” Sebastian tipped her chin. “Nothing is going to go wrong. It will be fine, you’ll see.” Gwen remained unconvinced. “Tomorrow we’ll dine at my estate and begin our wedding arrangements.” Sebastian reached for her hand and squeezed in assurance. “Come tomorrow evening, you’ll be stuck with me.” “I’m going to hold you to that.” She smiled with mischief at the proposition. Sebastian kissed the back of her hand, sending a hot, tingling sensation shooting through her entire body. “My carriage will arrive for you and your 160

Dance With Deception brother at four.” Gwen acknowledged him with a nod. The two men she loved most in life exited the house and walked toward Sebastian’s carriage and out of earshot. “Tristan.” Sebastian captured his attention. “Make sure when Keir comes around, your sister is tucked away. His courtship wasn’t solicited by her, and I don’t think it wise that she be involved in the severing of ties.” “I understand.” The men made eye contact and Sebastian knew Tristan did understand, completely. They were shaking hands when Gwen joined them once more. “Tristan, would you mind giving us a moment?” she asked. Her brother narrowed his eyes. “I suppose I could wait on the front steps. But for one minute only.” Gwen’s twin walked back to the main house. Sebastian stood less than a foot away from her and the proximity was too close. He was desperate to kiss her again like he had earlier. He wanted it so much that his loins throbbed for her. He repeated to himself, She’ll be yours in a fortnight. His chant was working. Until Gwen innocently reached for his hand and kissed his palm. She placed his hand against her cheek. “Thank you for loving me, Sebastian.” “Loving you is like breathing. I have no choice in the matter.” 161

Tracy Goodwin Tristan coughed as if to indicate matters were drifting in the wrong direction. Sebastian eased his hand out of her grasp and kissed the back of her hand in a final farewell. “Try not to worry, and get some rest tonight. We have a busy fortnight ahead of us.” Once settled upon the crimson squibs of his carriage, it lurched forward, the rhythm of the horses’ hooves drowning out the thud of his heartbeat inside his temples. Recounting his actions of this afternoon, he felt no satisfaction. Instead, he was riddled with guilt. He had lied about her virtue. Granted, it wasn’t the worst lie ever told in the history of the world, but it was a lie nonetheless. Sebastian recalled her smile, her warmth, and the profoundly disturbing way she had thanked him for protecting her. What would she say when she discovered the truth, his deception? Anxiety clamped his heart in a death grip. He’d never been so frightened before, never in his life, but now he was experiencing it first hand. What if she never forgives me for this? Sebastian swore he would confess his sins to both Gwen and her father when the time was right. He couldn’t allow Gwen to continue in her belief he was a selfless knight in shining armor. Nor would he allow Lachlan to go to his grave thinking ill of the daughter that had been willing to sacrifice her own happiness for his. But not yet. First, he and Gwen must recite their vows before God. Next, he would prove 162

Dance With Deception himself a worthy husband; show her they truly were meant to be together. Then and only then would he explain everything and beg her forgiveness. He’d promise to love her every day of his life. Gwen would forgive him. She must. He couldn’t accept the other possibilities. **** Tristan followed Sebastian’s instructions and brokered the dissolution of the marriage contract between Lachlan and Keir. It was torture. “You have no idea how ruthless Davenport is.” Lachlan’s angry voice reverberated through the cozy library. “What he did to my daughter is inexcusable.” “Now, Father, I know he went against your wishes,” Tristan spoke slowly, as if admonishing a child. “But he has not hurt Gwen, not in the least.” Lachlan laughed; a cold and eerie sound. He didn’t turn to his son but instead continued his address to Keir. “That bastard seduced her.” “Father!” Tristan’s tone hardened. “That’s enough!” “It’s true. That’s why I had no choice to consent. The daft girl is carrying his child.” Tristan stood and stalked with leopard like strides towards his father, stopping about an inch away from the old man, glaring at his wrinkled face. 163

Tracy Goodwin “Stop this instant! Don’t you ever say such a thing about my sister. I don’t care whether or not you are my father! I won’t allow anyone to defile her.” He turned on Keir. “How much will it take to get you out of my sister’s life for good?” For someone skilled in the art of negotiation, Tristan proceeded unusually blunt. The men before him made him sick. He wanted nothing more than to get away from them both before their filth rubbed off on him. Keir named his price. It was steep; far too steep under such circumstances however, as instructed, Tristan wrote out the draft delivered to him by messenger the night before. “It’s a shame, Lachlan, that your daughter’s morals were suspect.” Keir sneered. “Ours would have been a rewarding union.” Lachlan’s voice was sharp. “I know; if it wasn’t for that—” “That’s enough for today, gentlemen. Father, say goodbye to our guest.” Tristan grabbed Keir by his arm and shoved him out of the room. He planned to pound the fear of God into Keir, ensuring the fop would never speak of Gwen again. **** The duke’s coach was punctual, arriving at four that afternoon. Tristan instructed the driver to take his time, planning to study his sister for any signs his father’s allegations were true. 164

Dance With Deception “How are you, Gwen?” he asked. “How did Father treat you today?” She let out a fierce sigh. “Father is very angry with me and I understand why. I defied him.” She tipped her head to one side. “Do you understand, Tristan?” “I understand that you love Sebastian. I also understand that he loves you. What else is there to understand?” Gwen’s smile was bright as she reached across to wrap her arms around her brother’s neck. “You are the best brother a girl could ever have.” Tristan felt the frown line deepen in his brow. “Is there anything else you need to tell me? Anything at all, Gwen?” She loosened her tight hold around his shoulders. “Only that I am happy.” Her sweet tone reflected contentment as she drew away and met his stare. “No, that’s an understatement. I’m blissfully happy, I’m thoroughly relieved, and I’m utterly besotted. Does that answer your question?” “That about covers it, yes,” Tristan said, giving his sister a genuine smile. Tristan found the answer he sought. Her speech was much too candid for her to have compromised herself. Gwen leaned back against the crimson squibs and studied her plush surroundings. Her expression, one of disbelief, said she was finding it difficult to accept that all of this comfort would soon be hers. Her words supported this theory. “I don’t know how I became so lucky, because I still feel as though I don’t deserve any of it.” 165

Tracy Goodwin “Why would you say that?” Tristan studied her. “I had given up hope, Tristan. In doing so, I hurt Sebastian terribly. He was willing to sacrifice his good name and marry me regardless of Father’s reaction. I refused. Then I hurt him even more by acting like a coward, questioning his character. I was horrible to him, Tristan.” Her brother remained silent, rubbing his jaw as he waited for her to continue. “I turned my back on him and, in spite of it, he still convinced Father to change his mind. How could I possibly deserve this man when I gave up hope?” Her brother grinned and chucked her chin. “It’s clear that you do not.” “See?” Gwen giggled. “It was pure luck.” It was evident by Gwen’s recount of the events, the extent Sebastian had gone in order to stop her wedding to Keir. If in fact their father was telling the truth and Sebastian lied about Gwen’s virtue, Tristan was certain it was because he felt he had no other choice. He doubted Gwen would see it in the same light. “Remember one thing, Gwen,” Tristan said in a serious tone. “We make our own luck. Promise me that you’ll remember that and act upon it from now on.” “You’re tutoring me in the subject of chance now?” Her smile widened. “I’m serious, Gwen. Fate doesn’t always 166

Dance With Deception intervene. Sometimes, she is busy with others more needy. Occasionally, we each must make our own providence. Promise me you’ll remember that.” “I will gladly make you that promise. I also promise to never again be a coward.” “Good show, Gwen. I am proud of you.” Tristan smiled at his sister’s tenacity. “I am so lucky to have you for my brother.” Tristan chucked her chin. “It’s about time you realized what I have always known.” The carriage swayed to a stop. Gwen accepted Tristan’s hand, then descended from the carriage in a flurry of skirts and silk. Upon entering the gilded front door, a joyous squeal came from the inner hall startling the butler, a thin man with wire-rimmed glasses. Gwen struggled to hide her mirth behind her gloved hand as Victoria bounded down the corridor, shoes clicking atop the marble. “Gwen!” Victoria called as she approached the group in the hall at a break-neck speed. She tried to manage a stop, her kid slippers sliding along the polished marble floor. The butler gaped at her before turning to Tristan as if seeking help in stopping Tori. However, Tristan’s mouth was also gaping open, the line of concern etched in his forehead a foreboding of things to come. Gwen held out her arms to catch her dear friend. She used all of her strength to pull Victoria to a stop. “Are you all right?” Not missing a beat, Victoria threw her arms around Gwen in a fierce hug, swaying from left to 167

Tracy Goodwin right before squealing, “Of course I am! You’re going to be my sister!” Tristan leaned toward the butler and whispered, “She’s also going to be seasick in a moment.” The stern-faced butler coughed in an effort to stifle a hearty chuckle. “I’ve always wanted a sister!” Victoria exclaimed. Gwen glanced over Tori’s shoulder. Both Tristan and Sebastian’s butler were laughing so hard they were tearing. At the sight, her shoulders shook with mirth. “Victoria, please stop that before Gwen becomes ill from all of that motion.” Sebastian’s baritone was light with amusement as he entered the foyer. Tristan exchanged a conspiratorial look with the butler. “What did I tell you?” Winston cleared his throat in a gallant attempt to suppress his amusement. Sebastian motioned to his butler, then the door. “Winston, please close the door before my sister slides through it during her next amazing feat.” “Yes, sir,” Winston said still fighting laughter. “Why didn’t I think of that?” Tristan’s retort echoed through the marble hall. Gwen beamed at Sebastian over Victoria’s shoulder. Victoria whispered, “I am so excited that you are joining our family.” “I am, too.” Gwen stroked the girl’s cheek. “Make a pact with me that the next time you’re 168

Dance With Deception overjoyed, you don’t go sliding down the hallway. I don’t want my new sister suffering any broken bones.” “Tristan,” Sebastian called. “I can trade you my sister to replace the one I’m taking from you.” “No, thank you. I’m beginning to relish the silence that I will be enjoying at your expense.” **** Sebastian studied his future duchess. He wouldn’t want it any other way. He surveyed Victoria, noting she glowed brighter than the wall sconces. Gwen was good for her. She was good for all of them. He knew he made the right decision. His attention returned to Gwen. She appeared more beautiful than ever before and his heart welled with pride. Of course, he had long been mesmerized by her beauty, but now was different. Sebastian was proud she had chosen him. She had at last confronted her father and was going to be his duchess, the Duchess of Davenport. They would be happy. He knew it in his heart. Tristan interrupted the thoughtful silence, “Good God, it is contagious. Every single one of us has a silly smile on our faces. This is entirely your fault, Gwen! Yours too, Victoria. You just look so happy, I can’t help myself.” “Shall we move into the salon? Winston was supposed to show you there upon your arrival, but 169

Tracy Goodwin Victoria was too excited to wait, little imp.” Sebastian winked at his sister. Victoria straightened, lowering her voice in an obvious attempt to sound more mature and refined as she offered Tristan her arm. “The salon sounds delightful, dear brother. Shall we proceed, Mr. MacAlistair?” Tristan shook his head at her successful transformation, then offered his arm. “God bless the man who marries you, Victoria, for you will always keep him on his toes.” “And I will enjoy every minute of it.” Her devilish grin belied her words. Sebastian kissed the back of Gwen’s hand. “I would have done this earlier, but you were preoccupied.” “Your sister is happy.” Gwen’s smile radiated her own contentment. “And you?” “Blissful,” she answered, adding a wink. He offered his arm and they trailed behind their siblings to the salon. “I received a note from my good friend Alexander. He and his wife, Constance, have returned from their trip abroad. You will meet them tomorrow evening at the Wright’s ball.” “You mean to tell me that not only will I be spending the evening with you but also meeting your close friends?” “It’s not as daunting as it seems.” “No, not daunting.” She squeezed his hand. “It sounds delightful.” Sebastian’s heart swelled at her sincerity. 170

Dance With Deception They entered the rich burgundy room followed by the butler carrying a tray of refreshments from the kitchen. Sebastian exchanged a quick glance with Tristan, tilting his head toward the door. The younger man responded with a slight nod. Without missing a beat, Sebastian cleared his throat. “Excuse us for a moment, ladies.” Gwen stiffened as she watched their tall frames walk out from the salon, knowing the reason for their departure. She exhaled a breath, mentally reminding herself not to worry. Tristan had assured her everything went well with Keir. Everything, Gwen assured herself, is as it should be. Returning her attention to Victoria, Gwen decided now was the perfect time to ask her soonto-be-sister to be her bridesmaid. Taking Victoria’s hand in her own, Gwen regarded Sebastian’s enthusiastic sister with fondness. “Dearest Tori, I would love it if you’d be my bridesmaid.” Gwen had thought herself the happiest woman alive. It was clear from the expression on Victoria’s face she had fierce competition. Tori’s eyes were over bright as she answered, “I’d be honored.” All was as it should be. **** Upon entering Sebastian’s office, the two men wasted no time in getting down to business. Even 171

Tracy Goodwin before the click of the door closing behind them could be heard, Sebastian was firing questions at Tristan. “What happened between your father and Dunlop?” Sebastian motioned him to either one of the chairs facing the mahogany desk and offered a drink from the sideboard. Tristan watched him pour two tumblers of scotch. “It went as expected,” he replied. “Would you care to elaborate? It is my life that we’re discussing.” “What do you think happened?” Tristan studied his sister’s betrothed, gauging his reaction. Sebastian paused as he held the decanter frozen above the glasses. “For God’s sake Tristan, stop interrogating me like an attorney and tell me what happened.” He finished pouring the two glasses and handed one to his guest before sitting behind his impressive desk. “I gave the man an exorbitant sum of money to leave you and my sister alone.” Tristan traced the rim of his glass with his forefinger. “Keir accepted the draft, the betrothal contract is canceled, and both he and my father are mad as hell.” Sebastian took a long swallow from his glass. “Thank you for your assistance.” “Don’t thank me yet, for you may not feel so grateful after I’m done with you.” Sebastian’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. Why the sudden change in attitude from Gwen’s brother? Something told him he should have taken a bigger 172

Dance With Deception gulp of his scotch! “I know of the story you concocted,” Tristan began. “I now understand why my father had no choice but to agree, albeit reluctantly, to this marriage between you and my sister.” Sebastian cursed himself for not swallowing the whole damned decanter before beginning this conversation. He took a deep fortifying breath. There was no point in lying. “How did you learn the truth?” “My father had the pleasure of reciting all of the horrid details to Keir. My being present at the time was a mere nuisance.” A muscle pulsated in Sebastian’s neck. “Your father told Dunlop?” “Yes, I’m disgusted to say he did.” Sebastian slammed his fist against the smooth surface of his desk. “Damn it!” “There is no need for you to worry.” Tristan kept his voice smooth. “Explain yourself.” Sebastian raked his hand through his hair. “Why bloody not?” A devilish grin tugged at the corner of Tristan’s lips. “Keir will not repeat what he heard.” Sebastian arose with force, rounding his desk. He leaned against it and glared at his future brotherin-law. “Stop playing games right now before I find that bloody imbecile and make sure he doesn’t say a word. After I have rearranged his face, I’ll come back for—” Tristan raised a hand, assuring Sebastian’s his threat had no affect on him. “You needn’t worry 173

Tracy Goodwin because I escorted the fool back to his carriage. Imagine the man’s surprise when his driver was no where in sight.” Tristan paused for dramatic effect. With a roguish glint in his eyes, he continued, “I took the opportunity to educate him about the consequences should he repeat my father’s words to anyone.” Sebastian’s shoulders relaxed. “You threatened him?” “Me, a respected attorney? No, of course not. I did worse than that. I gave him a lengthy narration of what he could expect if he ever defiled my sister’s reputation. I then left him terrified of the repercussions. As soon as I entered the house, his driver hurried back to his post as our butler kept him occupied long enough for me to have my chat with Dunlop.” Sebastian arched his brows. “I had no idea you were so resourceful.” “Make no mistake, I will always protect my sister.” Tristan leaned forward in his chair. “Protecting Gwen was your intention when you lied about her virtue, was it not?” His words were issued as a challenge. Sebastian assessed the man before him. It was clear to him Gwen’s twin wanted the best for his sister and he was certain Tristan would accept his reasons for the deception. “It was the only way your father would give in. He was hell bent on Gwen’s marriage to Dunlop.” He shifted his weight. “That lie was my last resort. It was never my intention to disgrace your sister. If 174

Dance With Deception I had thought your father would repeat any of it, I— ” “Would have done the same thing.” “I don’t know.” Sebastian considered it and shrugged. “I may have.” Tristan’s expression was sympathetic. “I believe you, but it’s not me you have to worry about.” “I will tell both Gwen and your father the truth,” Sebastian assured him. “After we are married, then I will confess.” Tristan pursed his lips. “I will tell her the truth, Tristan.” Sebastian heard the defensive tone in his own voice but didn’t care, so desperate was he to convince Gwen’s twin. “I will make this up to her. I just need a little time to show her how much I love her.” “You can’t wait too long, Sebastian. Both my father and Keir despise you. They would give anything to hurt you … and Gwen, for that matter. Demeaning her and placing an irreparable wedge between the two of you would be their sweetest revenge.” “Some father you have,” Sebastian mumbled. “My father doesn’t like losing, never has. You have one more problem,” Tristan added. Sebastian rubbed circles on his temples. “As if there weren’t enough problems plaguing our lives already?” “Gwen thinks you rescued her with noble intentions and I’m afraid she won’t understand your reasoning. She’ll just see that you lied to her and 175

Tracy Goodwin about her.” “I never thought this would be easy,” Sebastian mumbled, somewhat lacking in conviction. His future brother-in-law’s expression softened. “My sister is worth the effort. And believe me, you will be putting in a great deal of effort.” The enormity of all that loomed ahead of him weighed heavily on Sebastian’s mind. He needed to see Gwen, certain her warm smile and soft voice would vanquish his anxiety and doubts. The pair returned to the salon in silence. The scene that welcomed them was unlike any Sebastian had ever expected. His betrothed sat with his sister on the oriental carpet, playing with Victoria’s puppy, as their laughter tinkled about the cozy room. The sight of his beautiful, vibrant ladies warmed his heart. Even the female mutt that Victoria had secretly adopted and kept hidden in her bedchamber until she could convince Sebastian to keep the mongrel as a house pet … even she was his. His family sat before him. It was a family Sebastian would fight for until his last breath.

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V{tÑàxÜ L Gwen’s heart soared at the prospect of spending the evening with Sebastian and their siblings at the Wright’s ball. She twirled a reluctant tendril into place before reaching for her crisp, white gloves and tugging them over her slender fingers and forearms. Allowing herself one last look, she winked at her reflection. “You, my dear, appear ready for the lion’s den.” She lifted her matching cape and reticule, then glided out the door of her bedchamber. When she reached the bottom of the stairs, she was surprised to hear from Norris her guests had just arrived and were waiting in the salon. “May I have the rose now, Norris?” Her butler walked to a mahogany table in the foyer, removed a single red rosebud entwined with small English ivy leaves from atop a silver tray and returned with it in record time. Gwen handed Norris her cape and reticule, then wrapped her gloved fingers around the delicate red rose like it were a 177

Tracy Goodwin precious and fragile object. Proceeding to the salon, her body tingled with anticipation at the thought of seeing Sebastian. The sight of him, dashing in a dark suit and ruby cravat, left her breathless. His sensuous smile sent her body into shock and she longed for him to kiss her, right then and there. Even the presence of Tristan and Victoria couldn’t quell her desire. Gwen took a deep intake of breath and noticed Sebastian doing the same. Was he feeling all she had been? The thought of him craving her with the same intensity thrilled her. She wanted him to desire her. She wanted him to be thinking of kissing her, caressing her, feeling the heat between them. She wanted to see the passion emanating from his piercing indigo eyes. Her cheeks flushed and she tore her gaze from her duke, greeting his sister with a tight hug. “You are a vision, Victoria. Is she not, Tristan?” “Yes, she is,” her brother agreed. Gwen’s gaze met Sebastian’s once again. She sensed that he hadn’t taken his gaze off of her and sent him a smile. “I see where your sister inherits her good looks.” “I don’t compare to you.” He kissed the back of her hand, allowing it to linger in his for a few moments longer than proper. “You look stunning.” The heat from his lips seared her hand, even through her gloves. Gwen was certain he left an imprint. 178

Dance With Deception She wanted him so much that it was overwhelming. After shaking her head in an attempt to concentrate on her composure, Gwen offered the rose to him. “I had this made for your lapel, I hope you like it.” His reply was rich like velvet. “I love it.” Sebastian paused and his gaze locked with hers. It was as if they were the only people in the room. He inhaled, noting Gwen had chosen to wear jasmine today. She filled his senses. His body was tense and aroused by her close proximity. “I have something for you as well.” He reached into his jacket pocket, withdrawing a large, square red velvet box before handing it to her. Gwen’s expression was one of surprise. “Sebastian! You don’t have to buy me anything.” He was certain she had no idea how much that one statement meant to him. Throughout his life, people expected so many things from him that Sebastian learned to trust a precious few. All others, he found, had been led by greed. Until Gwen. She was different. He felt such pride in her for being unique, for being her. “It’s only the first in a string of gifts,” he vowed. She opened the box with her gloved hands, her breath catching in her throat at the sight of his gift. Lying against the plush, red velvet interior of the box was an exquisite necklace of diamonds in 179

Tracy Goodwin the shape of flower petals. Emerald leaves accentuated the sparkling stones. Gwen slid her fingers over the gemstones. “Sebastian, I’ve never seen anything like this. It’s gorgeous. Although,” leaning closer to him, she whispered, “You alone are more precious to me than any gem.” Sebastian had fought to remain composed since he first laid eyes on his betrothed. She looked sophisticated, sultry even, and downright irresistible. But upon hearing her last words, he decided he must be alone with her. Now. Without pretense, he turned his head toward Tristan, keeping his erection well hidden from the man. “Would you mind getting Victoria’s cloak? Gwen and I will meet the both of you in the foyer in a minute or two.” Tristan’s eyes narrowed, shooting him a look of mistrust. “There are a few formalities we need to discuss before setting out,” Sebastian explained, endeavoring to sound as innocent as possible. “Make it quick,” Tristan spoke, his tone curt before offering Victoria his arm. As he ushered the young woman toward the door, he added with an over bright smile, “The door stays open.” Sebastian cursed his future brother-in-law in silence before muttering, “He is enjoying torturing me far too much.” Gwen stifled her laughter from behind the deep red rose and inhaled its sweet fragrance. 180

Dance With Deception Sebastian returned his attention to her. “Have I told you how exquisite you look tonight?” “I believe you said I looked ‘stunning,’ but I could be mistaken.” “At this moment, neither word does you justice.” He removed the custom made necklace from its box. “Turn around.” Gwen obeyed, brushing against the length of him, sending his pulse racing at a maddening rate. He secured the clasp, fighting against his urgent need to wrap his arms around her and kiss her until they were both breathless. Sebastian set the empty box on a gilded table, then placed his hands on her shoulders. He kissed the side of her neck, just above the gemstones, her jasmine scent intoxicating him. Her ragged intake of breath was not lost on him. His heart swelled with pride from the knowledge she would soon be his, in every way. He wanted nothing more in the world. Uncertain of when he’d have another minute alone with her, Sebastian walked around to face her, tipped her chin up, and crushed his mouth against hers. He probed her mouth, and when she did the same to him, it sent shock waves through his body. He brushed his thumbs against the nape of her neck in tiny circles, tantalizing her senses. Both were aware of the door being left open yet neither wanted to let go. Sebastian’s tongue slowed its pace and the kiss became erotic. 181

Tracy Goodwin She caressed his ear with the rosebud. That one small teasing motion aroused Sebastian to the point where he thought he would ignite. He withdrew his tongue and leaned his forehead against hers. Her breathing was ragged, as was his. Gwen traced the outline of his jaw with the rose bud, the soft petals sweeping against his skin, continuing to arouse him. His erection had reached a painful stage. He caught her hand, stilling the motion that was driving him mad with desire. After a ragged sigh, Sebastian admitted, “My body can’t take much more of this. I want you so much it hurts.” “It pains me, too. I don’t understand what my body is experiencing, but I do know I don’t want it to stop.” He brushed his lips against hers for one last kiss. “I will take you to heaven again and again. I promise you that. But first, we must rejoin the others.” “Do I look – I mean can they tell what ….” Gwen’s unfinished thoughts dangled in mid air as she backed away from him and traced the outline of her moist lips with her long patrician fingers. “You look radiant,” he said, winking at her. “You’ll be the most sought after lady at the ball.” Gwen smiled as she pinned the rose in his lapel. “I’ll be the talk of the ball. I just hope they don’t say anything too damning.” “Trust me, everything will be fine. Just don’t forget who you came with.” “Tristan is my twin brother.” Her eyes widened 182

Dance With Deception with feigned innocence. “How could I possibly forget him?” Sebastian roared with laughter. “Yes, she’d never forget me,” Tristan drawled as he strolled through the open door. “I hope you are both ready because your time is up.” As the group exited the salon, Tristan clapped the duke on his shoulder, “I love your rose, mate.” “So do I.” Sebastian’s smiled as he adjusted his adornment. “Now all we have to do is find some eligible young woman to pin one on your lapel.” “Oh, good heavens, no,” Tristan argued. “Clearly, it is too much work.” **** The Wright’s opulent estate was aglow with thousands of gas lamps and candles. Although most grand estates now used gas for their lighting, candles were frequently used to add ambiance to evenings such as this. Once the duke’s party entered the grand ballroom, their names were announced and all eyes turned in their direction. Sebastian led his sister down the staircase, his posture proud, his stride purposeful, his air selfassured. With each step he took, the Duke of Davenport exuded strength. Tristan and Gwen also descended the marble staircase with their heads held high. As she surveyed the ballroom below them, the gazes of almost every man and woman in the room were 183

Tracy Goodwin directed toward them. The men, in general stoic and expressionless at the announcements of arrivals, showed signs of surprise and curiosity while the women’s jaws dropped in shock. Quite a few ladies flashed angry looks at Gwen. Or it could have been jealousy. Her presence in the Duke of Davenport’s party this evening would dash many hopes for a union with him. Sebastian waited with Tori at the bottom of the staircase. Gwen’s gaze sought his and the look he gave her made her heart leap. Pride was etched in his every feature. He also exhibited one of his dazzling smiles, which always made her feel weak at the knees but never more so than at that very moment. Perhaps the intensity was because of the romantic glow from the thousands of candles flickering in the chandeliers above them and the light emanating from the gas wall sconces surrounding them? More likely, it was due to Sebastian’s dynamic presence. The powerful essence he exuded drew both man and woman alike toward him, like the sandy beach pulling the wave to shore. Gwen returned Sebastian’s smile. Whispers bit through the crowd reminding her of an ice-cold wind blowing in the winter months. It was clear to her Sebastian’s plan had been set in motion, gaining momentum. In a strange way, Gwen gloried in the knowledge so many women in the room were 184

Dance With Deception envious of her. As sure as the moon rose in the evenings, she and she alone saw the intimate side of Sebastian; his true self. The knowledge her place would forever be at his side thrilled her. All eyes stayed focused on their party. Gwen caught the animated expressions of one particular couple, whispering to each other. Judging by their physical appearances only, they were complete opposites. Both were striking, although his welltanned face and jet-black hair were a stark contrast to her milky white skin and blonde ringlets. Both sent encouraging glances to Gwen while they spoke to each other. They sauntered across the ballroom towards the duke’s party. “You’ve caused quite a stir, sir,” Tristan muttered to Sebastian. “Just imagine what will happen when your betrothal becomes public.” “Tristan!” Gwen reprimanded. “Someone might hear you.” “I hope they do.” Sebastian looked like a mischievous schoolboy caught committing some juvenile prank as he whispered in her ear, “I would like nothing more than to end this charade and take you home and continue where we left off in your salon.” Her eyes danced, expressing to him she wanted the same thing. In fact, she yearned for it too much. The memory of Sebastian’s mouth claiming hers sent heat coursing through her veins. She wanted nothing more than to race up the staircase with him, into his carriage, and kiss him with the ardor she felt for him. 185

Tracy Goodwin Sebastian must have read her mind because she noted his glance rove from her eyes to her mouth. He nibbled at his inner lip and her heart skipped a beat. He was teasing her. A male voice interrupted their silent play. It belonged to the elegant dark-haired man Gwen had noticed staring at them mere minutes before. “You couldn’t have made a better entrance if you tried. Tongues are wagging and all eyes are upon you.” “Alexander!” Sebastian vigorously shook his best friend’s hand. “Welcome home!” Turning his attention to his friend’s wife, Sebastian kissed the back of her royal blue gloved hand. “You look more stunning than ever, Constance.” “Thank you, Sebastian.” Her voice was silken. Turning toward Victoria, Constance added, “Victoria, you look beautiful. Doesn’t she, Alex?” Her husband was quick to agree with her. “You certainly do, Victoria.” “My good friends, allow me to introduce Gwendolyn MacAlistair and her brother Tristan. Gwen, this is Alexander Morley and his wife Constance.” Gwen curtsied, then Alexander bowed his head as he kissed the back of her hand. “It is a pleasure to meet you both.” Gwen offered a sweet smile and viewed unspoken curiosity radiating from Alexander’s jade eyes. He had undoubtedly noticed Sebastian spoke to her in an informal basis, even going as far as to call her by 186

Dance With Deception her nickname. “How was your trip?” Sebastian inquired. “Wonderful,” Constance declared, turning to Gwen. “Have you ever been to Paris?” Gwen shook her head. “No, although my eldest brother has. He brought me several trunks full of books and music. He also gave me a beautiful painting of oil colors. Victoria, you know it all too well. It’s the one over the mantle in the library.” “It’s gorgeous Constance.” Victoria’s face lit up. “It depicts a lake surrounded by pastel flowers and you can almost see the sunlight reflecting from the canvas.” Tristan jumped in at the first lull in the conversation. “If you will excuse me, I see a client I must acknowledge.” The women formed a triangle and conversed with ease. Gwen was pleased to discover she and Constance were two peas in a pod. Neither was obsessed with Paris fashions; instead both were interested in the sights, people, culture and even life aboard a ship. Alexander pulled his friend off to the side. “My, she is different. Gets along well with both your sister and my wife. Are you showing some taste, after all?” Sebastian smirked. “Yes, for the first time in my life, I’ve shown excellent taste.” “Well, it’s about time,” Alexander quipped. “Is this serious?” Sebastian’s grin broadened to a full-fledged smile. 187

Tracy Goodwin Alexander clapped his hands together and laughed. “We have a lot of catching up to do.” “More than you know,” Sebastian added, his dry wit apparent. Constance excused herself from Gwen and Victoria, then hurried over to her husband’s side. “Gwen is wonderful, Sebastian. It is clear that Victoria loves her. And, Victoria! She is growing more poised and confident every time I see her.” “Victoria is transforming into a remarkable young woman, isn’t she?” Sebastian’s tone was rich with pride. Two women traveled across the large ballroom, arm-in-arm, snubbing critics and joining the duke’s party. The elder woman, festooned in flamboyant orange, red, and purple feathers wrapped Sebastian in a fierce hug. “Hello, my dear boy!” Her sweet face and playful expression made her appear much younger than her years. She released him, then called to Victoria. “Victoria, bring your friend here. I want a hug.” Victoria ushered Gwen over to the sweet natured woman who encircled Tori’s petite frame as if she were a small porcelain doll. “How are you, my darling?” “We are doing well, Fiona,” Tori answered as her brother bowed to the viscountess’ granddaughter, a striking blonde with a porcelain complexion. “How are you, Eve?” Sebastian asked. “I’m fine, thank you. Enjoying my 188

Dance With Deception grandmother’s companionship,” Her smile was sweet. Her grandmother winked. “I’m keeping her young.” “I believe it!” Sebastian’s tone was playful as he returned his attention to the elder woman. “Fiona, I would like to introduce you to Gwendolyn MacAlistair. Gwen, I present to you the Viscountess Fiona Weston and her granddaughter Eve.” Gwen curtsied. “Pish-posh, enough with the formalities.” The viscountess’ features were animated as she spoke, her feathers swaying to and fro. “I have no need for them, as you can tell by my attire. Come with me, I have a question for you.” The viscountess strolled with Gwen until they were out of earshot from their party. In contrast to her flamboyant plumage, Gwen found the viscountess to be the epitome of grace and charm. She was the type of person rare in the ton, one who made you feel welcome and seemed unimpressed with someone’s title or lack there of. The woman’s wit, however, was true in nature to her multi-colored feathers. “Do you see these?” she asked Gwen with a mischievous glint in her eye, pointing to her plumes. Gwen bit her lower lip to stifle her giggles. “I couldn’t miss them, your grace.” The viscountess eyed Gwen with a quizzical expression. “What do you think of them, dear?” Although Gwen knew she could lie and pretend 189

Tracy Goodwin the garish feathers were fashionable or even a fashion coup, she decided upon a more sincere response. “Your grace, I believe that many a dull, colorless bird would be jealous of your vivid feathers.” Fiona’s head fell backward, her laugh triumphant. “From now on, my dear, you may call me Fiona. You have passed my test with flying …” she pointed to her feathers, “colors.” They pealed with laughter. The viscountess took Gwen’s arm, then continued, “I am also testing other guests, you see. Trying to ascertain if they are all nitwits or if at least one will tell me the truth.” “What truth might that be?” Gwen asked. “That I look like a peacock, of course.” Her raucous laugh reverberated through the ballroom. “And the results thus far, your grace?” “Take a guess, dear.” Gwen’s eyes narrowed as she remarked, “Nitwits?” “Smart girl.” The viscountess beamed with approval, then motioned to her granddaughter. “Eve is staying with me on my late husband’s estate not far from Sebastian’s Kellington Manor. I’d be delighted if you’d call on us.” Gwen followed the colorful woman’s gaze and noted the beautiful young lady conversing with Tori. “Would you mind if Victoria accompanies me so she may also call on Eve?” “Mind?” The viscountess’ youthful face glowed with joy. “Oh, dear girl, I think that would 190

Dance With Deception be wonderful for both of them.” The viscountess hesitated, then added with a wink. “Sebastian is fortunate to have found you. I know his mother would have approved.” Gwen’s heart brimmed with emotion at the viscountess’ poignant words. “Thank you.” Sebastian walked up behind her and, in a discreet gesture of support, placed his warm hand against the small of her back. Shivers of excitement coursed through her body at his intimacy. “What are you thanking this gorgeous woman with those ridiculous feathers for?” he asked. “Ha! Hear that? He is the one noble with the courage to speak the truth.” The viscountess smiled with unabashed approval. “That is because I have known you for far too long, Fiona.” The viscountess bridged the gap between them, then whispered, “I expect an invitation to your wedding, darling Sebastian. This girl is perfect for you and you know it.” “Not only will you receive an invitation, but you’ll be seated in the front pew, love.” “Your mother would be proud of you.” The Dowager Viscountess patted his cheek once more before marching toward a group of stuffy looking elders. Watching Fiona work the room was like observing a skilled artisan. She showed her plumage to all advantage, moving and swaying, daring someone, anyone, to say something about her work of art, then once dissatisfied with her present test 191

Tracy Goodwin victims, she’d move on to another party, then another. Although Gwen had a suspicion of what response the viscountess would receive, she nonetheless wondered if a member of the ton would surprise them by answering candidly. Not only was the viscountess amusing, but also she proved to be quite an ally. Upon meeting Gwen, Fiona took her under her wing at once. As the evening progressed, Fiona and Sebastian had introduced her to everyone in attendance. Upon seeing that Gwen had the seal of approval from both the Duke of Davenport and the Viscountess Weston, she was seemingly accepted by the rest of the throng. Dancing with Sebastian was Gwen’s favorite part of the evening. During their second waltz, Sebastian tipped his head towards an ostentatious elder man. “Do you see the man to your left in the red velvet jacket?” Gwen followed his gaze. “Yes?” “Not only does he have a fabulous fashion sense,” Sebastian ribbed, “but he also has a crush on Fiona.” “He does match one of her feathers tonight. Do you think he planned it?” Gwen teased. Sebastian threw his head back, his thunderous laughter echoing throughout the ballroom. No member of the ton had ever heard the Duke of Davenport laugh with such abandon. Over the course of the evening, all in attendance soon discovered it was a frequent occurrence when the 192

Dance With Deception duke was in the presence of Miss Gwendolyn MacAlistair. **** Sebastian escorted Gwen and Tristan to their front door. “Tonight was a complete success,” Tristan remarked, sounding quite relieved. Sebastian shook his future brother-in-law’s hand. “I agree. Thank you for all you did tonight, Tristan.” “Anything for my sister.” He turned to Gwen and winked. “I’ll wait for you in the foyer.” As soon as Tristan had moved out of sight, Sebastian caressed Gwen’s hand. “You were marvelous tonight.” “It was you who stole the show.” She traced the cleft in his chin. “By the time we left, everyone in that room would have gladly danced on their tiptoes for you.” “Only two dances count.” Sebastian referred to their dances. “I agree.” “We have a lifetime of dances ahead of us.” His promise was rich with emotion. He kissed the back of her hand and bid her goodnight. The swaying motion of the carriage ride home lulled an exhausted Tori to sleep on her brother’s shoulder. Sebastian listened to the familiar clip-clop of the horses’ hooves and his sister’s gentle breaths. 193

Tracy Goodwin As he stared out the window, squinting at the darkness that enveloped the countryside, he imagined the lifetime of dances he would share with Gwen and the endless evenings he would spend gazing into her adoring eyes. When she looked at him as she did tonight, he felt as though he alone caused the moon to set and the sun to rise. He squeezed his eyes shut, praying her expression wouldn’t change once she learned the truth. One could argue he liked seeing himself through Gwen’s eyes far too much for his own good.

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V{tÑàxÜ DC The weeks leading up to her wedding filled Gwen with a bliss the likes of which she had never before experienced. Not even her father’s foul mood or short temper could extinguish the flame of excitement and anticipation burning in her heart. Tristan conducted all of his business at Ainsley until her wedding, allowing him to escort his sister to dinner at the duke’s estate every evening. Gwen dared to believe her father would come around. Although she would love Sebastian regardless of his title, even if he were a pauper, she was not so naïve as to ignore what every parent wanted in a good match for his or her child … a respectable fortune and a prominent place in society. Sebastian offered both in abundance. What father wouldn’t approve of such good fortune? After hers had nursed his wounds from his disappointment, he would see reason. She just hoped he would live long enough to come to the realization. A shudder wracked through her body at the 195

Tracy Goodwin thought of her father’s impending death. She considered the possibility her father would never accept her marriage. Although the thought saddened her, she refused to change her mind. She loved Sebastian with every breath, and her resolve strengthened with every spectacular smile he bestowed upon her, every husky “I love you.” The fortnight before her wedding passed in a blur. She held regular appointments with her dressmaker. The seamstress for the late duchess, Madame Lafayette, took great pride in providing the future duchess with a wedding trousseau fit for a queen. Sebastian spared no expense. The fabrics were lush, almost decadent, and Madame Lafayette and her assistants were wonderful to her, ensuring the fittings were pleasant experiences. The mornings and afternoons she spent with them were always bright in spite of the stress they were under by their fast approaching deadline. Victoria joined her for all of her fittings. The young woman had already become Gwen’s sister in heart and mind. No one looking at them for the first time would ever imagine they weren’t related by blood. **** Sebastian was almost as happy as his betrothed, except for the secret guilt he harbored. It permeated his dreams at night. In each nightmare, Sebastian would reach out to Gwen, calling her name before 196

Dance With Deception he awoke, covered in sweat and alone in his darkened bedchamber. Fear gripped him. He failed to convince himself these episodes were nightmares and not a foreshadowing of events to come, even though his conscience knew better. “Please, God, let her understand,” he regularly pleaded aloud as he lay on his back, staring at the ceiling. Despite his restless nights, Sebastian visited Gwen each day, these trips refreshing him. The fervor in her eyes continued to make his heart slam against his chest. If quizzed, Sebastian could recite every shade her eyes would turn with any given emotion. What shade would they turn the first time he made love to her? His impatience escalated at the thought. He would watch her – he knew he would – reveling in her naked splendor. Mere months ago, he never would have contemplated marrying anyone, let alone a woman he actually loved. Now, he could imagine nothing else. After what seemed like an eternity, he, Sebastian Montgomery, the ninth Duke of Davenport, had reached the night before his wedding. He exhaled a sizable sigh of relief, his secret still concealed, then prayed to God as he had done many a night before, asking Him for forgiveness. He also prayed for Gwen’s forgiveness when he admitted his manipulations. It was his solemn vow 197

Tracy Goodwin he would admit the truth to her. He owed it to her and to their future; the same future that would begin tomorrow. The thought sent a jolt up his spine, like lightening. Sebastian wrapped his suede comforter around his bare shoulders, then turned on his side. His eyes remained wide open, staring into the pitch-black room. Having long lost track of time, hours passed in a sea of black while his mind worked at a feverish pace, contemplating every disaster that could possibly take place the following day, on his wedding day. Thick fear settled in his chest. What if, out of spite, Gwen’s father revealed the pregnancy Sebastian created; the lie he had conceived and nursed until it had grown into a full-fledged monster licking at his heels? Lachlan was heartless and he’d think nothing of hurting his own daughter. Perhaps the old man would disregard Sebastian’s threats and get revenge upon him the best way he knew how – by taking Gwen away from him on their wedding day. “Please, God,” he whispered into the silent room, “don’t allow anyone or anything to keep the ceremony from taking place. Please don’t punish Gwen for my duplicity.” **** Neither the clouds darkening the sky nor her father’s acidic disposition could dampen Gwen’s spirits on her wedding day. 198

Dance With Deception As she leaned against the plush crimson squibs in the sleek black carriage displaying the Montgomery family crest, Gwen at last understood her destiny. She would be Sebastian’s wife, the Duchess of Davenport. Pride swelled in her heart as she smoothed her wedding gown. It was more beautiful than she imagined. Delicate silver flowers and leaves decorated the gauzy white chiffon of her dress and train. Gwen stared through the glass window at the wooded countryside and traced the diamond and emerald necklace Sebastian gave her. Her mahogany curls were pinned with zircon-encrusted combs atop her head to display the matching earrings he had presented to her as a wedding gift. For the first time, she felt like Sebastian’s duchess. The mere thought of his endearing nickname caused her heart to flutter. From the moment she had seen Sebastian’s handsome face at the Stockton’s ball, Gwen had experienced an attraction toward him that could best be compared to an ocean current pulled toward the sandy shore. Fighting against it was fruitless. Such was destiny. Gwen sighed from contentment, certain that no one could ever be as happy as she. Not today or any other day. Tristan cleared his throat. “Gwen, I’m sorry to distract you.” “I’m afraid I was distracted even before you 199