Chapter Eight
Malcolm stared at the plate of eggs, sausage and honey scones his servant placed in front of him. Not in the mood to eat, he couldn’t stop thinking about his wife’s actions with Brandon Kennedy last night. Broderick had overheard the conversation between Kennedy and Camilla and had spied on them from another room to see how she handled him.
Malcolm shook his head in confusion. What was his wife up to now? For heaven’s sake, she’d lied to his business partner. That in itself was out of the ordinary. Malcolm’s wife would never snub Brandon, even in front of her husband, yet lately she had done it twice.
Leaning his elbows on the table, Malcolm cradled his head in his hands. Kat had actually told Brandon she had a good relationship with her husband—another lie. Why?
Then there was the incident the other morning when soldiers came into his room. It had shocked him when she climbed into his bed and acted innocent in front of their uninvited guests, but what perplexed Malcolm more was her motivation. Once again, she was willing to lie for him.
Not only were her actions misplaced, but he couldn’t decipher why his body reacted so violently to her beauty and charm. It had never spun out of control before, so why now?
He pushed himself away from the table and stood. His appetite had disappeared. Rest was even a stranger to him. Perhaps it was time to find out what happened when his wife went to Preston and why she returned a different person.
From out in the corridor, a rustle of skirts and the clicking of a woman’s shoes echoed through the front of the house. He swung toward the door. When he rested his lonely eyes upon Camilla’s beauty, his heart leapt. This morning she’d adorned herself with a rose-colored dress. The deep bodice had been altered, and a small amount of lace had been sewn in the material to hide her bosom. Her lovely hair was upswept into the same fashionable arrangement she had worn since returning from Preston.
Her outward changes stirred softer emotions in his heart. She appeared more reserved, more regal. More fitting as his wife—the kind of wife he had always wanted.
Cursing, he buried his weakening sentiments. He could never think of her as his wife. “Good morning, Mrs. Worthington.”
She smiled. “Good morning, Malcolm.”
From her sweet tone and the soft smile with which she greeted him, his heart sprang to life. He had repeatedly told her not to use his first name, but the stubborn woman wouldn’t listen.
He grinned. “I must say you look fetching this morning. Have you plans for the day?”
“I thought about going into town. Lizzy’s birthday is just a few days away, and I would like to buy her a gift.”
Shock spread over him. She remembered? “Yes, of course. Are you going to take the children?”
“Indeed, as long as you agree. Their nursemaid won’t be able to accompany us today, though. Will you let me take them alone? I promise to keep them in my sight at all times.”
Her eyes pleaded that he wouldn’t object, and it gripped his heart. His breath caught in his throat. Just a simple look, a softly spoken request from her, had the ability to weaken his resolve.
He cleared his throat. “I’m certain the children will love to go. They had an enjoyable outing with you the last time.”
Her smile widened. “As did I.”
She stepped nearer to him, her rose fragrance knocking his senses off balance.
“Is there anything you would like me to purchase for you?” Her warm breath caressed his face.
“No.” His heart hammered as he fought for control. He swallowed hard. “Is there something special you need?”
Her gaze focused on his lips. He balled his hands into fists to keep himself from taking her in his arms and kissing her. The other night was still very fresh in his mind, making him want to give in to temptation again.
“No, Malcolm. You have given me too much already.”
She remained close to him, and the longer she stayed so near, the more uneven his breathing became. “Have a pleasant outing, then,” he said in a strained voice.
“Thank you, Malcolm. And thank you for allowing me to take the children.” She raised and touched her lips to his cheek, kissing him briefly before stepping back. His heart beat out of control, and he didn’t have the slightest urge to stop it.
“What was that for?” he asked breathlessly.
“For being so kind and for trusting me with your children.”
“You deserve it.” His answer was whispered, and he couldn’t understand why he had said that. Did she really deserve it?
She slid her hands over his, and automatically he clamped on to her, wanting to keep her from leaving his side. The urge to take her in his arms and devour her mouth with his became overpowering.
“You have no idea how long I have waited to hear you say that.” Her eyes sparkled. “I won’t disappoint you, Malcolm, I assure you.”
She leaned up to kiss his cheek again, but he turned his face and met her kiss with his mouth. The kiss was soft, as were her lips. He hungered for more, but just as he released her hands to hold her, she broke the kiss and stepped away. A pink tint highlighted her cheeks, making her eyes sparkle.
He waited to see what she wanted to do next, hoping she would decide to fall into his arms, but she took another step back toward the door.
“Thank you again, Malcolm.” Her voice was sedate. “Have a good day at work, and I shall see you tonight.”
His emotions tied into knots, and he let her walk out of the room. The wild beat of his heart knocked against his ribs and his lips tingled from the memory of her sweet kiss. But it was still too soon. As much as his body starved for passion’s touch, he didn’t trust her with his life or, more importantly, his heart.
*
The lovely morningpassed too quickly for Camilla, and the time she had spent with James and Lizzy would soon come to an end. Within an hour they would be going back home, and she didn’t want the pleasure to stop. When each child clasped her hand, her heart soared. She was bursting with happiness.
The morning had started out perfect, first with the tender conversation with Malcolm, followed by the brief but earth-shattering kiss that had left her body weak and shaking. Then to have Malcolm’s children come to accept her kindness and love… Definitely, the day could not be better.
Camilla traveled through town, purchasing a few items for the kitchen that Cook had requested, but her main purpose was to find a shop that would buy Kat’s dresses. The other day she had gone through her sister’s closets and pulled out the gowns that could be altered. Many of the dresses Camilla simply couldn’t modify. She wanted to find somebody to buy them.
Several dressmakers agreed to purchase the slightly used garments at a fraction of their original cost. Camilla couldn’t refuse the offers, and made arrangements with them for a delivery date. The money earned would go to pay her sister’s medical debt.
After making the final arrangements with the last shop owner, she and the children walked outside. Breathing in the fresh air, she pondered what they could do next. From up the street, the bong of the church bells rang through the town. She hadn’t been to church for so long, and she missed it greatly.
The wide doors opened at the cathedral-style building and several people walked down the few steps onto the road. At last, a priest exited the church, but stood at the top of the steps, waving to his congregation.
Although she hadn’t been to church in a while, there was one problem weighing heavily on her mind that she would like to discuss with the priest. Marriage to Malcolm. According to the marriage certificate, she was legally Mrs. Worthington. Yet how could she be married to this man if she never attended the actual ceremony?
“Children,” Camilla said. “Would you like to come with me to the church?”
Both James and Lizzy nodded, so Camilla hastened toward the man of God. Since she had stumbled across the certificate, she had been trying to convince herself this wasn’t possible—that a vital piece of information was missing. Things didn’t add up, and Camilla didn’t know how to go about finding answers. Now with the priest not far away, she would take a moment and see if he could shed some light on her worries.
The priest rested his gaze on the children and smiled, but when he turned his eyes to Camilla, his expression appeared forced. Inwardly, she groaned. He knows about Kat as well.
“Good day,” she said sweetly.
“It is a very good day,” he answered stiffly.
“Might you have a moment to spare to answer a question for me?”
“Only a moment, my child.”
“That is all I need.” She took a deep breath. “My question will seem a little strange, but I assure you I have a good reason for asking.”
“What is it, my child?”
“I want to know if proxy marriages are legal.”
The older man’s eyes widened and his bushy gray eyebrows lifted. “Proxy marriage, you say?”
“Yes. Can you tell me about it, please? I beg you, I desperately need to know.”
“I shall answer you to the best of my knowledge.” He folded his arms. “It was common for European monarchs and nobility to marry by proxy. Were you aware that Marie de’ Medici, the second wife of King Henry IV, was married by proxy?”
Camilla gasped. “No, I wasn’t aware. So, if she was married by proxy, then it is indeed legal to have another person stand in for an absent person who cannot attend their own wedding. Correct?”
“Yes, my child.”
Peace settled over her confused mind. I am married to Malcolm! Her heart flipped with excitement, yet at the same time, confusion filled her. Did she want to be married to him? Little by little, she realized Malcolm was not the monster Kat had created in her mind, but she still needed to discover if he was doing something illegal behind her back. How could Camilla possibly want to be a criminal’s wife?
“Thank you, Father. We will leave you now and let you attend other matters of God.”
Now that she knew she was Malcolm’s wife, would she still want to find evidence against him? Could she possibly turn him in and see him hanged?
Camilla took a deep breath and released it slowly. First things first—she must obtain his trust. Maybe then he would open up to her and tell her the truth about his life. Then, and only then, would she decide what needed to be done.
With the decision in mind, she smiled and continued on her way with the children. Just then, a wonderful scent drifted around her and tickled her senses. Freshly baked sticky buns permeated the air with their wonderful cinnamon aroma. Her belly growled in response to the irresistible smell.
She stopped and crouched to the children’s level. “Lizzy? James? Are you hungry for a sticky bun?”
Happy, energetic eyes widened, and the children giggled. She laughed, joining in their mirth. She raced with the two into the next shop to buy the treats. Within minutes, the three left with rolls and icing-caked fingers and lips.
She found a small patch of grass, and they sat under a tree to eat their treats. The gentle breeze blew a lock of hair across her warm cheeks, and the shade from the tree prevented the sun’s rays from making them too uncomfortable.
“Oh, Milla,” James said in a voice filled with joy, “this is the best day in the whole world.”
“I think it is a wonderful day as well. Don’t you think so, Lizzy?”
The girl’s head bobbed, making her blonde ringlets bounce in rhythm, but still she said nothing.
Milla frowned. “James? Why doesn’t your sister speak?”
He shrugged, and then took another bite of his roll. “She talked a little before you and Papa got married, but I don’t know why she stopped.”
“Is she still frightened of me?”
“Don’t think so.”
Camilla stroked Lizzy’s cheek with her knuckles. The girl didn’t flinch, which was a good sign. “Lizzy?” The little girl’s eyes met hers. “Will you say something for me?” Lizzy shook her head and concentrated on eating her roll, but Camilla continued. “Can you say Papa?”
Without looking up, Lizzy nodded as she licked her fingers, but she remained quiet.
“Lizzy?” The girl looked up. “You don’t have to say a word now, but will you talk to me one day? I would really like to play dolls with you.” The girl’s eyes widened, and light danced inside the huge orbs. In excitement, Camilla’s heart picked up a faster rhythm. “Would you like that?”
Lizzy nodded faster.
“I would, too, but I cannot play with you unless you talk to me.”
Lizzy lowered her eyes as she gobbled down the remainder of her roll.
Once again, Camilla’s heart ached. With a deep sigh, she admitted defeat for now. She wouldn’t give up on the poor girl, just like she hadn’t given up on Malcolm.
She opened her reticule and pulled out an embroidered handkerchief. She dabbed the end to her tongue to moisten the cloth, then wiped Lizzy’s messy face and hands, then gave the same treatment to the boy. Before putting the cloth away, she wiped her own hands and face.
“I think we should head back home now.” She stood and helped the children up, but just as she turned, the ferocious bark of a dog made her jump. The beast bounded toward them from across the street.
James and Lizzy screamed and ducked behind Camilla, hiding in the folds of her skirt. This must be the dog that had attacked them before.
Camilla scanned the area, looking for an object to use as a weapon. She spied a rock, grabbed it, and aimed for the oncoming animal. He bared his teeth and growled.
“Shoo,” she shouted, but the animal didn’t stop.
When he reached them, he slowed. His growl moved deep in his chest as he padded around them, his intent gaze never leaving their faces. His hackles rose.
Lizzy and James cried, burying their faces further into her dress. The dog continued to taunt them. Then the animal lunged. Camilla threw the rock, hitting the beast between the eyes. The dog gave a sharp yelp before tucking its tail and running away.
Camilla released a gust of pent-up air. She turned, gathered the two frightened children in her arms, and held them tight. “It is all right now. Don’t fret. The dog is gone.”
James wiped his runny nose on the sleeve of his jacket and looked up at her with wet eyes. “You made the doggie go away and you wasn’t afraid.”
“I was afraid, but I was more afraid of him hurting you or Lizzy, and I wouldn’t let that happen.” She gave him a reassuring smile.
Cupping Lizzy’s chin in her hands, she lifted the little girl’s face and met her teary eyes. “Are you all right?”
Lizzy nodded, then swallowed. She cleared her throat and opened her mouth to speak, but snapped it closed.
Excitement pounded in Camilla’s heart. Lizzy again struggled for words, and Camilla waited.
With the back of her hand, Lizzy wiped her wet eyes then looked back at Camilla. “Tank you,” she mumbled in a barely audible voice.
A small cry escaped Camilla’s throat, and she hugged the child against her bosom. “No, thank you, my darling Lizzy.”
From behind, a woman called out. Camilla turned just as the woman stopped before them.
“Excuse me, madame,” the woman said breathlessly.
Camilla eyed the well-dressed woman, perhaps in her late forties. The older lady looked to be very wealthy. Camilla wouldn’t doubt she was prominent in town as well.
The woman placed her hand over her heart and sighed. “Oh, good heavens, child. Are you all right?”
“Yes. We are just still a little shaken from the ordeal, but we are fine.”
“My husband’s dog got away from my servants, again, the horrible animal. I wish he would get rid of the beast, but my husband loves Rottweilers.” She sighed. “I’m impressed with how brave you were when you stood against him.”
“I couldn’t let the dog attack us.”
The woman shook her head, a light of admiration gleaming in her eyes. “Well, I must say how happy I am to see that the animal finally lost a battle. He breaks away from my servants much too often, and I hear about all the children he attacks.”
“Well, I hope the dog will think twice before coming my way again.”
The woman laughed. “Can I put a name to such a brave young lady?”
“I’m Camilla Worthington. My husband is Malcolm Worthington, and these are his children.”
The lady held out her right hand in greeting. “And I’m Lady Burwell. Colonel George Burwell is my husband.”
Camilla’s eyes widened. Could this woman be the wife of the same man whom Malcolm sought an invitation from? “It is a pleasure to finally meet you. My husband speaks highly of the colonel.”
Lady Burwell’s forehead creased. “Your husband knows my George?”
“Yes. Colonel Burwell asked my husband to draw plans for the navy’s new ships, and Mr. Kennedy is going to build them for him.”
A light of awareness shone on the woman’s face, and she laughed. “Oh, yes, I know who your husband is now. Quite charming, he is, and very handsome, if I might add.”
“Thank you. I think so, as well.”
“If you are friends of Mr. Kennedy, then my husband has invited you to come to my party this weekend, has he not?”
“I’m sorry to say no. I don’t believe we have received an invitation, Lady Burwell.”
“You must be jesting.” The woman gasped. “Why, Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Crowley are coming, so it is only proper you and your husband also attend. In fact, although it is late notice, I’ll send over an invitation this afternoon.”
Camilla’s heart leapt to renewed life. She couldn’t wait to see Malcolm’s reaction. What would he say? Would he reward her with a kiss? Just the thought made a different kind of thrill course through her body, moistening the palms of her hands.
As soon as she realized how excited the thought made her, she squashed the idea. She could not be feeling this way, even if she was legally his wife.
“It will be a pleasure to get to know you and your dear husband,” Lady Burwell said. “I cannot wait to tell my guests what a brave lady you are. They will love to hear how you wounded that horrible dog.”
“Don’t make me out to be more than I am.” Camilla laughed. “The reason I reacted that way was to protect my children.” She reached down and drew them against her side.
Lady Burwell crouched to the children’s level and smiled. “You two are very lucky to have such a loving mother.” She patted their heads before standing. “I will see you this weekend, then?”
“Yes. And thank you for the generous invitation.”
After the woman left, Camilla held in the bubble of joyous laughter threatening to escape her throat. She grabbed James and Lizzy’s hands and hurried toward their coach. The day had been more productive than she could have ever imagined, and now she couldn’t wait to see Malcolm.