Sebastian made another feeble attempt at reading the figures before him. After several ticks of the clock in the silent study, he threw down the papers in frustration. He groaned and covered his eyes with his hand, massaging the headache forming. He couldn’t hope to concentrate on his duties when last night was crowding his every thought. Somehow, with the willpower of God, he had let Grace go to her chambers alone. When they arrived home he had followed her to her door, stealing another heated kiss. He had waited, wanting...needing to hear her sweet invite. But she had hesitated and it was that hesitation that had forced him to bid her goodnight and retreat to his study. Having to deal with his frustrations himself and lack of sleep had put him in the foulest mood. He heard the door open, but didn’t bother to change his position. Aiden had seen his dark scowl early morning and was wise enough not to comment.
“Sir, Lord Charles has arrived. I’ve left him in the blue salon as you instructed.” Aiden said and Sebastian moved his hand away from his face.
“And what of my other instructions?” He asked, slowly rising from his chair as he mentally prepared himself for what was to come. Aiden stepped out of the way so Sebastian could precede him out of the study while answering.
“It has also been done…” He paused and Sebastian knew what that meant.
“Ask.”
“Why are you doing it this way? Surely it could be less...cruel.” Aiden said, gritting his teeth at the last word and Sebastian stopped, turning to the side so he could see his man’s grim face. His own grew solemn as he thought over what lay ahead. Sebastian sighed softly, shaking his head.
“Believe me, this is no easier for me...But if I don’t do it, then all of this will never end.” He said and Aiden’s blue eyes flashed. Sebastian raised a brow, never having seen such emotion come from the other man except before a fight.
“But Cap’ it’ll hurt-”
“I know. However...I will not let that man take advantage of my family or play with their hearts as he sees fit.” He said, his eye growing dark and the other man stepped down, bowing his head in submission. Sebastian took a deep breath and began walking again.
“My instincts could be wrong.” He whispered and Aiden snorted as he moved to open the door to the salon for Sebastian.
“Your instincts are never wrong.” He muttered and Sebastian gave him a strained smile.
“That’s why I have to do this.” He waited until Aiden pulled the door fully open before sweeping in. Lord Charles got to his feet, eyeing Sebastian warily. He had no inkling to the nature of this summon, but he may be wise enough to guess...Maybe…
“Lord Charles, thank you for taking time out of your schedule to meet with me.” Sebastian started the usual greeting, walking past the man towards his liquor cabinet. Charles’ eyes followed him slowly, but he managed to plaster a fake smile on his face as he answered in kind.
“Not at all. Although I was a bit surprised to receive an invite from a man who shuns society.”
Sebastian shot a cold look out of the corner of his eye and saw the man swallow nervously.
“I do not shun it per say. I merely prefer the quiet being away from it offers. Would you like some brandy my lord?” He asked, putting an end to the topic all together and Charles was smart enough to follow along. He nodded and thanked Sebastian as the man poured two glasses. After having drinks in hand, Sebastian sat in the wing chair set between the two sofas and motioned for Charles to sit as well.
“I think it best to not skirt around the reason I asked for you to come today.” He said, taking a slow sip of the stinging liquid while watching Charles’ reaction over the rim. The man straightened slightly, his eyes sharpening.
“It’s no secret how fond our dear Annabelle is of you. I also know how my Grace feels.” He said and saw the man’s eyes harden in defense, but before he could attack, Sebastian struck first.
“However, I have decided to give you the opportunity to plead your case with me and prove you are worthy of Annabelle’s hand.” He said, watching as first confusion spread across the man’s face, then indignation.
“Forgive me your grace, but I believe you have no authority in that matter.”
Sebastian took another sip of his brandy, letting the man’s irritation grow. He hummed and set his glass down, crossing one leg over the other and leaning back in his seat.
“It very much is my matter to discuss with you. As I have already explained to dear Annabelle, she is now a ward under the name of Blackwood…” He paused and Lord Charles’ eyes narrowed briefly before he schooled his features and gave a sickly sweet smile. Sebastian kept his irritation off his face, but he didn’t appreciate the other man thinking he was fool enough to fall for his sudden act.
“Ah, forgive me. I was unaware of the facts and caused offense with my words. I blame my weary heart for my harsh reaction. I have been denied time with the woman I love and any man would grow irate.” He smoothed and Sebastian raised a brow at that, wondering if he had ever been sincere once in his life. He sighed and cast a glance to the side before putting this to an end...As much as it would pain him to do so, it was still better than letting this vile man touch her again. He gave his own fake smile, knowing it was much more convincing and nodded as if to agree.
“I can understand as I felt much the same being away from Grace for so long…” Not a lie.
“Very well. I will allow you to openly court Annabelle and in two years I will permit her to have the man she covets.” He said and saw the satisfied victory shining in the other man’s eyes. Just as Charles opened his mouth to give thanks, Sebastian put a damper in that victory.
“As for the matter of her dowry, I will be withholding it until any heirs she bears come of age.” He said and rose as if to end the discussion.
“Wh-What? Withhold, but you-”
“Can’t? I can and will. I am not someone to stand between two lovers, but for Annabelle’s sake I still need to protect her future in case you continue on the road to bankruptcy that you''re traveling.”
“Now wait a minute! If I take her as my wife then that money becomes mine as well.” Charles said rising to his own feet as he glared at Sebastian. Not the least intimidated by the man, Sebastian shrugged.
“I see not why it matters. I am merely being protective of my sister in case something happens that you can not fix. It is what we Blackwood brothers are known for-thinking three steps ahead of everyone else.” He said, piercing the other man with his sharp gaze, hinting at his knowledge of the man’s elaborate spending. He was on the verge of losing everything and very desperate for a large sum of money. He held out his hand, palm up in offering and narrowed his eye at the man. Here was the moment of truth and he prayed that for once he’d be wrong.
“I have said that Annabelle can be yours. Your heart need be weary no more. I have offered my blessing to your union and I’m sure with time I can coax Grace to accept it as well. If it’s Annabelle you truly want, she’s yours.”
Charles’ fists shook with his rage and Sebastian knew his instincts never lied. He closed his eye and chuckled bitterly.
“So it really is the money.” He ground out, fighting against the anger he felt towards this man. Charles laughed and Sebastian opened his eye to see the lord smiling smugly and frowned.
“I have to applaud this performance, but there’s no way you can deny me my rights when I’m her husband. The law is on my side and I will have both Annabelle and her vast dowry.”
“Which means more to you?” Sebastian asked, his own hand closing in a fist as he itched to put the bastard to the floor. Charles shrugged and crossed his arms defiantly as he continued to smirk at Sebastian.
“Do not misunderstand me my lord. Annabelle will make for an excellent bedmate and I will enjoy her as any man would. I would not take an unappealing wife, no matter the size of the money she’ll bring me.”
“Watch your tone sir…” Sebastian warned, his anger slipping from his hold. However, Charles shrugged it off and crossed his arms.
“I don''t know what you hoped to accomplish today, but I will not be deterred from my prize. Sweet Annabelle is already naively in love with me…” He paused smirking at Sebastian in a condescending manner.
“It shouldn''t be too hard coaxing her into a dark corner. After all she is Grace’s sister.”
Sebastian swung, satisfied at the crack he heard when his fist met the man''s jaw. He straightened as Charles spit curses at him.
“Be comforted that I am satisfied with that and will not be calling you out for the insults you have directed at both my wife and sister…”
Charles glared as he rubbed against the bruise already forming and spat blood onto Sebastian''s expensive rug.
“Bastard. Do what you want Blackwood, but I will have Annabelle. She’ll never believe a word you say. She’ll always trust my word over yours.” He hissed with a satisfied grin. Sebastian rubbed his knuckles and turned his back on the man, walking to the door his eye had been on before starting this conversation. Hand on the handle he turned his profile to the other man and whispered,
“You''re right…” The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
Charles turned pale, reeling back in shock as the door opened and his eyes met heartbroken green orbs, clouded by rivers of tears.
“She’ll believe your words.” Sebastian finished, his glare returning to the other man. Charles gaped at the two of them, trying to find a way to amend what he had done.
“Annabelle...I-I didn’t mean...This bastard tricked-” He tried, his hand reaching out to her, but she flinched back and buried her face in Sebastian’s chest. He wrapped one arm around her protectively as her sobs filled the room.
“Escort Lord Charles out.” He ordered and Aiden came from the room Annabelle had been in, heading for Charles. The snake tried to brush off Aiden, underestimating his strength. Aiden grabbed Charles’ wrist and twisted it painfully behind the man’s back while his other hand latched onto the back of his neck.
“Give me more reason to break it.” Aiden threatened, his icy blue eyes flashing with pure rage. He forced Charles to walk, leading him out of the salon and ‘helping’ him down the front steps. Sebastian wrapped his other arm around Annabelle, hugging her close and rubbing small circles on her back.
“I’m sorry. Hate me if you want, but you deserved to know the truth...and I could think of no other way to show you his nature.” He whispered and her nails dug deeper into his shirt as her small body shook. He held her through the worst of her cries and once they had lessened to soft whimpers, he finally eased his hold.
“Return to your room little one. I’ll send up a maid with some tea and have a hot bath drawn for you.” He said, looking down at her tear-streaked face and wished that he had beaten the man for the pain he caused this sweet child. She left without protest and his heart stung at the part he played in her current state. He sighed and went to pour himself another drink.
“I’d like one of those if you don’t mind Cap’.” Aiden said as he returned, looking just as down as Sebastian. He must have seen Annabelle as she went up the stairs. Sebastian poured the drink and held it out to his first mate, who drained it in one swallow, flinching at the burn.
“That was worse than I imagined. Even preparing myself…” Aiden whispered and Sebastian nodded silently, not needing to voice his own feelings as they were clear on his face. Aiden held out the glass for more and Sebastian obliged as the man continued speaking,
“I also heard Grace’s voice when Annabelle reached the landing. No doubt she’ll be seeking you out for answers soon.”
“I know…” Sebastian said, rubbing the headache that had returned with a vengeance. He sighed and spoke in a low voice, feeling tired suddenly.
“It may be a good opportunity to take them home. Annabelle needs to be away from this toxic city now more than ever, gossips be damned. I don’t think she’ll be able to handle society in her frail state and it won’t be long before Lord Charles spreads his lies around…
“Besides. With the threat against them still hiding in the city I want to take them somewhere that I’ll have an easier time protecting them.” He looked up, meeting Aiden’s blue eyes.
“Make the arrangements.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Grace looked out the window at the moving scenery. They had left the cramped city two days ago and now all that surrounded them was lush valleys. She shifted her eyes over to Annabelle worriedly. The girl had grown very subdued and Grace wished she had torn a piece of Charles’ hide before he was thrown from their home. Aiden had told her of the spectacular bruise Sebastian had given the man, but she still wanted to inflict her own revenge. Even though she had tried so hard to protect Anna’s heart, the girl had still been crushed. All she could do now was be there for her sister and try to console her the best she could. Sighing softly so as not to disturb the others she let her eyes drift to the man sleeping soundly beside her. She was amazed that he could sleep with the rocking of the coach. Then again, he had lived on a ship for years, so maybe this was soothing for him. She turned back to the window when she heard a horse moving closer. Aiden’s mount pulled up alongside the coach and he smiled at her.
“How are you feeling milady?”
“I may embarrass myself trying to exit when we arrive, I have lost the use of my legs.” She laughed and he chuckled, winking at her.
“Don’t worry, I’ll catch you if you start to fall.” He teased and she laughed again, but it turned into a gasp when a pair of strong arms wrapped around her middle and pulled her back. She turned to see Sebastian grinning down at her, their faces too close and her heart nearly stopped.
“If my darling wife ends up in anyone’s arms when we arrive, it shall be mine.” He purred into her ear and she shivered in response, her body humming at the promise in his words. She was growing more aware of the way she responded to his touch with each passing second. After knowing the pleasure she could feel in his arms, her body was becoming conditioned to expect it and craved more. How much longer could she put off sharing his bed? Did she even want to put it off? She shook her head, chasing away the thoughts so that Sebastian wouldn’t be able to read the impurity of her mind through her eyes. Sebastian looked out his window and hummed, sounding suddenly pleased and in higher spirits.
“We’ve reached the drive for the manor.” He said and she turned, escaping his hold so she could see out his window.
“How can you tell so easily?” She asked and he pointed to something shimmering in the afternoon light. When her eyes focused, she realized it was a large lake surrounded by willow trees.
“That lake marks the end of the drive and where the farm lands begin. Everything behind it is meadows for riding and patches of blackberry bushes.” He said and Anna finally perked up at that, briefly coming out of her melancholy.
“Blackberries?” She asked and Sebastian smiled at her, nodding. He looked between them and continued,
“I can show you where they are, but I’ll warn you that I don’t know the best patches. I’m afraid Liam is the expert on blackberries with his sweet tooth as a child.” He said. Annabelle didn’t seem to be deterred as she already looked more excited to be here. Grace was grateful for Sebastian suggesting they leave London to rest in the country. It would take time, but with the freedom offered here, Annabelle would be back on her feet once more.
They waited a few more minutes before the coach turned into the courtyard and pulled to a stop. Grace felt a flurry of butterflies swarm in her abdomen as she grew both nervous and excited to see the place Sebastian had grown up. When the door opened, Sebastian got out first then turned to help them down the steps. Annabelle went first, letting out an awed sigh when she looked up at the building.
Grace followed, clasping his hand tightly because she really did fear her legs giving out. He grinned, seeming to understand and supported her down the steps, continuing to hold her hand after her feet touched solid ground.
“Welcome home Lady Blackwood.” He whispered so only she could hear and she felt her cheeks blush at the way his eye warmed. She looked up at her new home and couldn’t stop her own from widening in surprise. The manor was very large and imposing with its towering height and dark grey stone facing. There was also a strange feeling that the essence of this place was judging her, looking for any imperfections. It was a strange feeling until she remembered what Sebastian had said about his parents’ desire to appear perfect for society.
He tucked her hand against his arm and they began walking up the steps and through the large doors that creaked as they opened. She felt a strange sensation wash over her, part apprehension and part excitement that this place was her new home. This was where she would spend most days without worrying about the rude comments of her peers. Her eyes shifted to the man she would be sharing that life with, but unlike the first time she didn’t feel a crushing weight on her chest. Instead she felt a pleasant heat and an optimistic outlook on the life that lay ahead of them.
Waiting for them was a portly woman wearing a firm expression. Grace stiffened slightly again as she fell under scrutiny once more. Sebastian cleared his throat, drawing the woman’s stern eyes to him and Grace felt they turned even colder.
“Grace, this is Mrs. Whiston, the head housekeeper of the manor. If you need help with anything she is the woman to call for. She has been serving the Blackwood family for twenty-eight years.”
“Welcome Countess Northridge, I will do all I can to assist you in running the manor.” The woman said, her icy voice sending an apprehensive chill down Grace’s spine. If this woman had been with the family for nearly all of Sebastian’s life, then why was she treating him so frostily? She looked over at her husband to see that his servant’s attitude didn’t affect him, as if he had grown immune. Just another piece to the mystery that was the man’s past. Would she ever collect them all and be able to make sense of any of it?
“Mrs. Whiston, can you call for a maid to show Annabelle to her room and make sure she is comfortable.” He ordered and the woman nodded, snapping her short fingers. Grace blinked when a maid suddenly appeared from around the corner as if having been waiting to be summoned. The housekeeper relaid the orders and the maid curtsied to Annabelle. Grace frowned when the girl shrunk in, possibly feeling the crushing atmosphere that was even getting to Grace. Before she could offer her sister a word of encouragement a voice broke through the quiet room.
“Well it’s about time you showed up, I was afraid I would be dining alone tonight.”
Sebastian straightened and swung towards the voice, his eye widening in surprise. Grace looked over at the young man that had spoken as he leaned against the wall grinning at them. His grey eyes shined with happiness and he reached up to brush his blonde bangs to the right so he could see them properly.
“It’s improper to keep a guest waiting Sebastian.” The man chuckled and Grace suddenly realized who she was looking at. Sebastian’s face broke into a large, genuine smile as he went to the man and engulfed him in a warm hug.
“Liam! Why did you not tell me you had returned to England?”
“I sent a letter, but it must have missed your departure. When they told me you were coming home I decided to just wait as well.” Liam said, returning his brother’s hug, before pushing away and patting the taller man’s shoulders.
“But more of that later. I was more anxious to meet the woman they said would be accompanying you.” Liam smiled as he turned to her. Grace found herself returning the smile easily. Not only because of how fond Sebastian clearly was of the man, but because he had the aura of someone kind and easily approachable.
“It’s an honor to meet you sir.” She said, bowing her head towards him. He waved his hand as he walked closer to her.
“None of that please. I am simply Liam to you as we are now related. I am so happy to finally have a sister joining the family.” Liam said, sweeping her into a quick hug that took her by surprise. Sebastian chuckled as he came closer resting his hand on Liam’s shoulder.
“Actually you have two now, I had better make the proper introductions. Liam this is my wife Grace, and this is Annabelle her younger sister. Both are the newest additions to the Blackwood family so play nice please.” He laughed and turned to give orders to Aiden to have the luggage brought in.
“When have I ever not? It’s a pleasure ladies and I-” Liam suddenly stopped as he looked at Grace and his mouth fell open.
“Wait...Grace...Would that by any chance be Grace Preston?” He asked, his voice dropping low.
“Uh, y-yes, before marrying Sebastian my name was Preston.” Grace’s smile slipped as her brows drew down in confusion. Liam gasped and grabbed her shoulders tightly, his eyes shining with a strong emotion.
“It’s you! You''re the one who-Ah!” He was suddenly yanked back by the collar. Grace frowned and looked up at Sebastian who was glaring at his brother darkly. Confusion couldn’t even begin to describe what she was experiencing at that moment. Liam looked just as stunned as she was, but for a different reason.
“Sebastian...You...You finally-”
“Excuse us. My brother and I have catching up to do. We’ll join you for dinner.” Sebastian said before effectively dragging the other man behind him and leaving the others gaping after them. Grace looked over at Aiden who was standing next to Annabelle.
“You wouldn’t happen to know what that all meant would you?” She asked and Aiden gave her a sheepish smile, shaking his head.
“I’m afraid not milady. The captain has always been withdrawn about certain aspects of his life. So I can offer no insight to that conversation.” He said before ushering them after the maid that was still waiting to show them to their rooms. Grace followed silently while her mind was somewhere else. There was no overlooking it anymore. Sebastian was definitely hiding something, but what on Earth could it be that would make him show such an expression. His gaze had not only been angry, but she had seen a hint of fear as well. What had Liam been about to reveal to her that Sebastian was so desperate to keep secret? She had to find a way to get Sebastian to tell her. She wanted no secrets between them. Otherwise, she wasn’t positive they could fully move forward as she had recently found herself dreaming about.