Song Of The Nightingale (DeWinter's Song 1) (21 page)

When Kassidy realized it was the prince approaching, she quickly dipped into a curtsy.

Prinny walked around Kassidy, taking in every lovely detail and making her feel uncomfortable. “Lord Justin, did I just hear you refer to this charmer as ‘the virgin duchess’?”

Lord Justin smiled devilishly. “That was not meant to be overheard, Your Highness.”

“And where is your husband, madame? I have not seen him these last three months.”

“He is in the country, Your Highness,” Kassidy said, stepping back a pace because he was standing so near she could smell spirits on his breath.

“So,” Prinny said, rocking back and forth on his heels, his eyes raking Kassidy. “Raile has married a beauty and left her to her own devices while he tinkers around in that drafty old castle of his.” He exchanged a smirk with the woman at his side. “Until tonight I have never thought of Raile as a fool, but I have changed my opinion after seeing his neglected wife.”

The prince gave a robust laugh, which was joined by the others. “England once had a virgin queen, now we have a virgin duchess. This is damned amusing.” His eyes challenged Lord Justin. “Perhaps Raile should look to his pigeon before another robs his nest.”

Prinny’s laughter trailed after him as he moved on down the path, followed by his entourage. His laughter deepened and rose above the sound of music from the ballroom. “I must speak to Raile about neglecting his wife. He will give us all a bad name if it continues.”

Kassidy realized her uncle had been right when he said the prince was not respectable. He had deliberately humiliated her, and no gentleman would have done that for his own amusement.

Lord Justin looked shamefaced. “I do so humbly apologize, your grace. I fear I have unwillingly left you open to ridicule, and that was not my intention.”

“You said earlier that my husband is your friend. This was not the act of friendship.”

“I can assure you Raile is my friend. If you were to ask him, he would agree.”

Kassidy moved away from Lord Justin, heading in the direction of the music. “I would not consider you a friend of my husband’s. But if you are, I would not think that friendship would survive this night.”

Lord Justin rushed to catch up with Kassidy. “Do you intend to tell Raile about this evening?”

“No, I would not do that. But I believe he will hear about it all the same. It appears His Highness was amused by the situation and will delight in retelling it to others.”

“You are right, of course.” Lord Justin stepped into her path so she was forced to either stop or move around him. “I humbly beg your forgiveness for being the instrument of your embarrassment. If there were only some way I could make amends, I would do it.”

“I can’t think why you would need my goodwill when you obviously have the prince’s.”

“You have my word that I shall never by thought or deed, make you uncomfortable again. Please say you will forgive my bad manners.”

He spoke with such sincerity she was inclined to believe him and her anger cooled. “I will forgive you,” she said, wanting only to put distance between them. “But I’m not certain Raile will.”

“I would like to be your friend, your grace. I would deem it an honor to serve you in any way I can.” He raised his hand. “From this day forward, I’m a changed man. I swear it.”

He was so charming and earnest she couldn’t help but smile at him. “I wonder if it is so easy for a man to change. I fancy you will be up to your old ways the moment I am out of sight.”

“If you will allow me to call on you tomorrow, I’ll show you. You have my oath I will be nothing but a perfect gentleman.”

She was thoughtful for a moment. “Yes, you may call if you like.”

She moved around him and hurried down the path, leaving him to stare after her.

Lord Justin did indeed envy his friend, although he could not understand how Raile could leave his beautiful duchess alone and untouched, while he retired to the country.

“Prinny was right,” he said aloud. “Raile is a fool.”

24

Dear Raile,

I’m writing you about a matter that has so distressed me that I thought you should be informed at once. It seems you have unwittingly become the object of a cruel jest. To put it delicately, Kassidy is being referred to as “The Virgin Duchess.” The Prince, himself, is the author of the jest, so you can imagine what a popular topic you have become at every social gathering. As for Kassidy, you need have no concern for her. She is completely recovered from her illness and is the rage of London. She is never without adoring admirers who grant her slightest wish. It does you credit that she is so popular.

Lady Mary smiled to herself and signed her name. She glanced up at Kassidy, who had just entered the morning room.

“I believe, dearest, it will not be long until your husband will be arriving in London.”

“Did he send word that he would come?” Kassidy asked, feeling uneasy for fear Raile had heard the rumors the Prince of Wales had started about her.

Lady Mary sealed the letter, looking smugly confident. “I have not heard from him, as of yet, but I feel certain that your husband will arrive within the week.”

Kassidy sat near the window, looking out at the park across the street rather than at the stack of invitations she clutched in her hand. “You were right when you said I would be the rage, Aunt Mary. I have so many invitations to balls and parties, I can’t possibly attend them all.”

“Here,” her aunt said, holding out her hand, “I’ll help you choose the proper ones.” She looked Kassidy over carefully. “You are enjoying yourself are you not?”

“Very much so ... but...”

“Yes?”

“It’s so artificial. I’m from the country, Aunt Mary, I like to have purpose to my life. I find London boring.”

“You shall soon be in the country,” Lady Mary said with certainty. “I can assure you, Kassidy, that you will.”

“Not for a year,” Kassidy reminded her.

“Don’t be too sure your husband won’t become impatient and insist you accompany him to Ravenworth sooner than you expect.”

Lady Mary’s ball was a success. Kassidy’s face was glowing from having danced four straight dances. She took a chair to catch her breath and was immediately surrounded by gentlemen.

She was not amused, nor did she feel comfortable with the attention she was receiving. So when she saw Lord Justin threading his way toward her, she felt relieved that he had come to rescue her.

Since the incident in the garden, the night they first met, Lord Justin had proven to be her friend. He called on her every day, and true to his word, he had been the perfect gentleman. He took her riding in the park and was her escort at several teas. Kassidy now felt comfortable in his company.

When Lord Justin reached Kassidy’s side, he pushed through the dozen gentlemen who surrounded her and took her offered hand. “You look ravishing tonight, your grace, and easily outshine every lady here.”

Kassidy withdrew her hand. “I thought we agreed there would be no false compliments between us.”

“My compliments to you are never false. Before becoming acquainted with you, I had never met a woman so opposed to praise. Surely you must know how beautiful you are?”

Kassidy’s eyes gleamed with a warning. “I would rather be complimented about the knowledge I have acquired, rather than my appearance.”

Lord Justin smiled. “It’s difficult to think of your mind when it is wrapped in such a lovely package.”

The other men agreed vocally, and Kassidy found herself lost in loud tributes to her mind and beauty.

Raile stood at the doorway, observing the dancers as they whirled by. His gaze moved over the crowd of faces, searching for a woman with blond hair. He was annoyed when he didn’t see her right away. For a moment his gaze rested on the lovely vision in blue who was surrounded by admirers. Her face was upturned as she listened to one of the gentlemen, and Raile’s eyes lingered on that beautiful face for a moment longer before he continued his quest for his wife.

After receiving Lady Mary’s letter yesterday, he had lost no time in coming to London. He was perturbed to find the Rindholds were entertaining. And, it didn’t help his mood that he could not locate his wife.

Lady Mary appeared at his side, smiling brightly.

“Raile, what a wonderful surprise! I had no notion you would be coming to London so soon.”

He looked at her through lowered lashes. “Did you not, madame? After your informative letter, I would have thought you’d be expecting me.”

Ignoring his innuendo, she tucked her hand into the crook of his arm. “Come and say hello to George.”

“I am not dressed for the occasion. If you will just tell Kassidy I am here, I’ll wait for her in your study.”

Lady Mary was trying not to feel smug that her little plan was working so well. “Why don’t you tell Kassidy, yourself.” She pointed her fan. “She’s there.”

Raile stared for a long moment at the beautiful woman with golden hair who had caught his attention earlier. “Surely you jest, Lady Mary. I would know my own wife when I saw her.”

Lady Mary smothered a laugh. “Why, your grace, apparently you don’t know Kassidy—for that is indeed she.” Lady Mary lowered her voice. “Pray don’t let it get around that you didn’t recognize her, your grace, or we’ll never stop the rumors from flying.”

Raile drew in an angry breath. “If you will excuse me, Lady Mary, I’ll see to my wife.”

Lord Justin raised Kassidy’s gloved hand to his lips. “I admire your wit, as well as your intelligence. You are like a fresh breeze that has blown through London. You must know that many men have laid their hearts at your feet.”

Raile stood behind Justin, his anger barely under control. The other gentlemen had already recognized the duke and had hastily departed.

Raile’s voice was hard and cold. “I see you are making yourself charming again, Justin.”

Kassidy spun around to her husband. Her eyes were bright with welcome, and her heart was pounding at the sight of him. Raile, however, was looking at Lord Justin and not at her.

Lord Justin looked into eyes that were filled with turbulence, and his hand fell away from Kassidy’s arm. “It’s always good to see you, Raile.” His eyes danced with humor. “But you could have stayed away longer—I have enjoyed keeping your charming wife company.”

Raile spoke in a biting tone. “If you will excuse us, I would like to see my wife, alone.”

“As you wish,” Justin agreed, reluctantly moving away. He had known Raile would come to London, and that he would be angry. But he had sensed in Kassidy a loneliness and he was not sorry he had been her friend.

Kassidy noticed that Raile had avoided looking directly at her. “Don’t you think you were rude to Lord Justin? After all, he is your friend.”

At last Raile looked into the familiar green eyes. “Is he my friend, madame—or has he become your lapdog?”

Kassidy noticed that others were watching them with curiosity, so she lowered her voice. “Are you accusing me of something, Raile?”

He reached out and clamped her wrist. “I believe you have already made us the center of controversy. If we remain here much longer, it will only give the scandalmongers more to talk about.”

He pulled her to her feet, leaving Kassidy no choice but to go with him. She caught her aunt’s eye, hoping Lady Mary would intervene for her.

Lady Mary met them at the front door and handed Raile Kassidy’s cloak. “There is a chill in the air. She may need this, I believe.”

Apparently Kassidy would get no help from her aunt, for Lady Mary merely kissed her cheek and nodded her approval to Raile.

“Where are you taking me?” Kassidy asked, as Raile dropped the cloak about her shoulders, took her elbow, and guided her toward the front door.

“I’m taking you with me, where you belong, madame.” He turned to Lady Mary. “You will have her things sent to the town house.”

“I won’t leave without Arrian,” Kassidy said defiantly. “She needs me.”

“I’ll take care of the baby,” Lady Mary assured her niece. “You go with your husband.”

Kassidy would have protested, but Raile gave her no chance. With a curt nod to his hostess, he led his wife outside and helped her into his carriage. The coach lurched forward, and Kassidy settled in the corner, not knowing what to expect.

For a long moment there was silence.

“I don’t understand why you acted so tyrannically tonight, Raile. Had you made known your intentions to me, I would readily have agreed to come with you. You didn’t even let me know you were expected in London.”

“Surely you knew I would come.”

“How could I know? When you left, you assured me that I could have a year before you came for me. I trusted your word, and you have broken it.”

Raile spoke with a biting tone. “Did you think you could make my family honor an object of ridicule and I would do nothing? You have put yourself beyond the pale, madame.”

She wanted to lash out at him. “That’s absurd. I can assure you I have done nothing to disgrace either your honor, or mine. If the truth be known, it was you who has shamed me, your grace.”

As they passed a lamp light, Raile’s face was outlined in the half light. She could feel his eyes boring into her. “In what way have I shamed you, madame?”

Kassidy pulled her cape tighter about her. “I’m talking about the actress, Miss Candeur—your mistress.”

He was taken aback for a moment. “How could you know about her—from Justin, I suppose.”

“Justin is a gentleman, he would never say anything to me about your . . . woman. It was Miss Candeur, herself, who made certain I knew about your relationship with her. Although I suspected it that night at your house, she publicly confirmed it.”

Raile felt trapped. How did a husband explain a mistress to his wife? He took the coward’s way out. “I will not discuss this with you,” he said sourly.

“I am well aware that wives are not supposed to know about such things—and if they do find out, they are expected to look the other way. Well, we both know that I am not an ordinary wife, and I will not look the other way.”

She was confusing him, and no woman had ever done that before. He was beginning to regret he had come to London at all.

“That’s nonsense.”

“I don’t think so, Raile. I recall the conversation we had before we were married when you made it quite clear from the start that we did not owe fidelity to one another.”

He was shocked that she was using his own words against him. How arrogant he had been that day he had so foolishly explained to Kassidy what he expected of their relationship. “I would not advise you to admit you had been unfaithful, Kassidy.”

“Don’t insult me, Raile. It is not / who flaunted a lover in your face.”

“I would prefer we not speak of such things tonight. You should take a lesson from your aunt and display a more feminine nature.”

“I love my aunt, but you cannot compare our marriage to hers and Uncle George’s. Aunt Mary loves my uncle and clings to every word he says as if it were the golden truth. She is very intelligent, but sometimes when she is with my uncle, to make him feel superior, I have observed her acting as if she has no thought in her head that he hasn’t put there. I could never be subservient to any man. The man I love must accept me as I am, and not be intimidated by me just because I can think for myself.”

“I daresay it is because of that attitude that you were not married before now.”

“I daresay you are right.”

Raile raised a dark brow. “At last, something we agree upon.”

She was angry with his high-handedness. “Pray God that does not happen too often.”

He had not expected the sickly little girl he’d married would rip a man to shreds. He should have remembered their first meeting.

“I assume you are aware of the rumors concerning our marriage, Kassidy?”

“Yes, and it has not been pleasant for me to face the ridicule of being a neglected wife. The women laugh at me behind my back, and the gentlemen believe me to be fair game because I don’t have a husband at my side to protect me.”

“Was Justin one of the men who gave you protection?”

“He has become my friend, just as he is yours.”

“I recall Justin always seemed to favor any woman with whom I had formed an attachment.” Justin had even tried to take Gabrielle Candeur away from him, but Raile did not mention this to Kassidy.

“Justin kept me from being lonely,” she said, angry that she had to defend herself.

“Oh, yes,” he said sarcastically, “Justin was always helpful.”

“I happen to know he likes you a great deal. He has only praised you to me, and I have come to know and respect him.”

“What about me, do you also respect me?”

“1 don’t know you very well, your grace.”

“You know my name—so use it,” he demanded. “And, Kassidy, I can assure you that after tonight, you will know me very well.”

She felt fear and excitement race through her body. “What do you mean?” she asked breathlessly.