Rebellious Desire

Chapter Five

"Let go of my arm. We can't be out here alone," Caroline argued in a fierce whisper.

Her irritation didn't seem to make a dent in Bradford's armor of determination. The obstinate man kept right on going, dragging Caroline along, and several couples taking in the night air turned to watch them with curious gazes.

As soon as Caroline realized that others were watching, she removed the scowl and tried to looked composed. It was a difficult task, and she wanted nothing more than to knock the Duke of Bradford to the ground and give him a few good kicks. Unladylike though the thoughts were, they did give Caroline a great deal of pleasure. And she had little doubt that she could manage the deed, or at least knock some of the egotistic wind out of him, because her cousins had taught her all the ways to cause a man real distress.

Her short bluster of confidence evaporated when she realized that she couldn't even get her hand away from him. Had she left her confidence in Boston? she wondered as she followed meekly along.

The balcony circled three sides of the house, and Bradford continued until they were truly alone at the isolated end of the railing.

There were several candles along the railing's ledge, placed in tall glasses so that the wind wouldn't blow out their light, giving the balmy night a romantic blush.

Bradford stopped when the balcony ended, and turned to face Caroline. The candle nearest them cast a warm glow to his complexion, softening the hard ridges.

"Now I believe I will have your undivided attention," Bradford began without preamble. "I'm in no mood to share you with half of London."

"Well, now that you have my attention, what will you do with me?"

Bradford smiled at the challenge in her voice. He read fear and confusion in her eyes but her soft voice denied it was true. Her false bravery pleased him. She wasn't the type to cower or swoon. She was, he decided, a worthy opponent.

He almost answered that he would have her, for as long as he wished to keep her, no matter what obstacles she placed in his way. Caroline must have read the intent in his gaze because she began to back away, ever so slowly.

Bradford was swift to end her retreat. He took hold of her shoulders, felt the silken softness beneath his fingertips, and almost forgot what he was about, until she tried to jerk away. "Oh, no you don't," he whispered. He pulled her toward him and turned her, and she felt like a puppet and he the manipulator, as she was locked between the wall and the railing. She was good and trapped and Bradford smiled over it.

"Will you please let me pass?" Caroline asked.

"Not until we've had a little talk," Bradford replied.

He acted as if he had all the time in the world. Caroline let her exasperation show. "You're a stubborn man! You completely ignore the fact that I don't want to talk to you."

"Yes, you do," Bradford informed her. "There is something going on between us. I feel it and I know you do too. I believe that we should acknowledge it, and the sooner the better. I've no time for games of courting, Caroline. When I want something, I take it."

Caroline hadn't lied. She really didn't want to be alone with him. Bradford made her nervous. She didn't feel in control when she was with him. She had just been very blunt with him, but was appalled when he returned with the same bluntness.

"And you have decided that you want me?" Caroline's voice deserted her, and Bradford had to lean down to hear her question. He didn't answer, but continued to look at her, his gaze telling her all she needed to know.

She had thought that she would brazen it out, put him in his place with a severe setdown, but suddenly found herself quite speechless.

"Does my honesty frighten you?" Bradford finally broke the silence and his voice was filled with tenderness. "It bothers me," he admitted with a wry grin, "and that isn't something easy to acknowledge."

His stare was hot enough to turn water into steam. It certainly warmed her, and she found that she didn't know how to react. "You make me nervous when you look at me like that," Caroline admitted. She sighed and shook her head. "I might as well warn you. If I get nervous enough, I'm going to start laughing and then you'll be insulted."

"Caroline," Bradford interjected, "just admit that there is something between us."

"We don't know each other," Caroline protested.

"I know you better than you think," Bradford replied. Caroline's eyes showed her disbelief and he confirmed his statement with a nod. "You are loyal, trustworthy, and filled with an abundance of love for the people you care about." He knew by the way she blushed that he was embarrassing her but didn't care in the least. He was intent on making her admit her feelings. Nothing else seemed to matter.

"How can you know these things?" Caroline asked.

"The day I first met you. You were frightened then, but you stood up to me. Your only concern was to protect a virtual stranger from further harm. Bravery is a trait I admire," he added. He wasn't smiling anymore as he continued in a serious tone. "When we talked, you told of your worry that you might disgrace your relatives by doing something awkward. You also spoke of your family in the Colonies, and your loyalty to them was very obvious. Lastly," Bradford concluded, "you called your aunt Mama, and your eyes showed the deep affection you felt for her."

"A dog is loyal and trustworthy and affectionate."

Caroline's jest forced a reluctant grin from the man looming above her. "Tonight you trembled in my arms when we danced. Are you going to tell me that you were cold?" He was teasing her now, and Caroline responded with a smile of her own. "Can you be honest with me?"

"Honesty is a trait I most admire in others," Caroline returned, "because it is completely lacking in my own character." She sighed with exasperation and then continued, "I am a thief with words and promises, and can't help myself. Therefore," she added, "if I agree that there is a special feeling between us, then you will have no way of knowing if I am telling the truth or not, will you?"

Bradford grinned and shook his head. "Then we shall have to do something to give us proof," he suggested. Amusement lingered in his eyes, and Caroline knew he hadn't believed a word she had said. She was lying and he knew it.

"And just how do I prove that I do or don't feel anything for you?" Caroline asked. She was frowning with concentration, but a sudden sparkle appeared in her eyes and Bradford immediately knew she was up to something. It was the identical look he had noticed right before she had led Brummell into her trap. He found himself anticipating her next move. "Perhaps there is a way after all! Why don't you jump off the balcony? If I don't scream out to stop you, then you will know that I don't care."

"And if you do issue a warning?" Bradford asked with a rich chuckle.

"Well, then you will know that I did in fact feel something for you. Of course, you will have broken every bone in your body, but we will have our answer, won't we?"

She smiled prettily, and Bradford considered that she might be finding pleasure in the picture she had just painted.

"There is an alternative," Bradford suggested. "And one that wouldn't destroy my body, since that is a real concern to you."

"I am not concerned about your body," Caroline rushed out. "And this conversation is becoming quite improper. What if someone should hear us?"

"Are you always so concerned about what other people think?"

"I never gave it a thought until I arrived in England," Caroline admitted. "And it is a strain. Being correct can be exhausting."

Bradford smiled over her honesty. "Caroline, I would like to kiss you and be done with it."

She didn't move. She felt as mesmerized as a small animal about to be caught in a very large net. Bradford placed both palms on the wall behind her and slowly leaned forward. "You are so romantic," Caroline whispered. "Be done with it? Is it such a chore then?"

Why did she continue to bait him? she asked herself a little frantically. It could only make things worse than they already were.

"You insist that there is nothing happening between us, avoid looking into my eyes whenever possible, and yet tremble in my arms. Your body contradicts your words of protest."

Caroline surprised Bradford by nodding. "I know it," she whispered.

Her admission pleased Mm, almost as much as her rosy lips beckoned him. He couldn't wait any longer but vowed to go slowly. His mouth gently brushed hers. Caroline tried to turn her head but Bradford caught her lower lip and held her captive. He kissed her again, applying more pressure, and although he had planned only to give her one chaste kiss, he found that he wanted more from her. His mouth opened over hers, and when she tried to resist the invasion of his tongue into the sweet warmth inside, Bradford used one hand to force her chin down. His tongue took what his body craved, stroking and exploring and penetrating the sweetness she offered.

Caroline was shocked by the initial touch of his tongue. She didn't know that men kissed women in such a way! She recoiled in embarrassment, yet heard herself gasp with pure pleasure. She couldn't stop the kiss or her tongue, when it touched his, timidly at first, and then with increasing ardor. She heard his deep growl of encouragement and put her arms around his neck to bring him closer.

She didn't know it was possible, but the kiss deepened, became hotter. She clung to Bradford's massive shoulders and drank her fill, giving and taking the pleasure that flowed like sweet wine between them.

The longer they kissed, the more Bradford demanded. He was rough in his passion, holding her face to gain deeper advantage. Never had a single kiss so affected him, so aroused him. He wanted her with a burning need that no other woman could satisfy. The more he drank, the more he wanted.

His tongue penetrated, receded, and then plunged in again and again. Caroline, lost in an ocean of sensation, began to tremble and felt liquid heat flow through her body. The intensity of what was happening between them frightened her. She finally pulled away and had to use the wall for support. Her breathing was as ragged as her thoughts.

It took a full minute for Bradford to gain control of himself.

Caroline kept her gaze downcast, lest he read the embarrassment in her eyes. She had behaved wantonly and thought that he must think she was a loose woman without morals.

"Now tell me there isn't anything between us," Bradford demanded. His voice sounded gruff and, she noticed with irritation, terribly victorious.

"I won't deny that your kiss was pleasant," Caroline said. She looked up at him, and Bradford was again spellbound by her eyes.

"I want you, Caroline." So much for honeyed words, Bradford thought with an inward grimace. He began cursing himself for his rashness when he noticed the change in her expression.

Silence descended while Caroline considered how to answer. She was angry but had only herself to blame. She had responded to his kiss like a common woman of the streets, hadn't she? "You want me?" she asked in a shocked voice. "How dare you say such a thing to me. Is it because I returned your kiss?" Tears gathered in her eyes but she was too upset to control them. "I don't care that you want me."

She didn't give Bradford time to answer. "Do you think, because of your title and position, that you can have all that you want? Well, you're mistaken if you think you can have me, my lord. I'm not a member of the ton and I'm not impressed by material offerings."

"Every woman is impressed with material offerings," Bradford muttered, using her own expression for wealth and power.

"Are you suggesting that if the price is right, you can have any woman you want?" Caroline drew herself up to her full height when Bradford shrugged his reply. She matched him glare for glare. "You insult me." "Because I'm being honest with you?"

"No! Because you actually believe what you're saying," Caroline returned. "I would no more give myself to you than I would give myself to your King George," she added.

"Because I've stated that I want you, you jump to the conclusion that I mean as my mistress. You are insulted when I believe you should be flattered," he argued. He was furious and let her feel the full wrath of his anger. "But if I court you and then ask for your hand in marriage, what then?" His hands were braced on either side of Caroline's head, his face just inches from hers. Oh, he knew what she was after, and as much as it infuriated him to admit it, he wanted her almost enough to give it to her. "You'd change your tune then, wouldn't you?"

Caroline concentrated on his earlier remark. She couldn't believe his audacity. "A compliment? Ha! You tell me there's something between us," she returned, "but it is only a physical attraction, nothing more. Do you actually believe I would give myself to you because of such a paltry reason? I would not marry you," Caroline stated emphatically. "You tell me that you want a loyal, trustworthy, loving woman," she rushed on, "but you don't display any of those qualities."

"And how would you know that?" Bradford demanded.

Caroline was too upset to be intimidated by his stare. "First, you suggest that I become your mistress. And all because we are attracted to each other."

"Why else would I want you for my mistress?" Bradford asked, trying to make sense of her logic. "And I did not ask you to become my mistress." He was yelling now and didn't care who heard him.

"Oh, but you would have. Second, you are too egotistical for my liking. I look beyond appearances, my lord. I will marry someone who is considerate. And he won't be an Englishman."

"What the hell's wrong with being English?" Bradford bellowed. His anger suddenly, magically vanished and he found himself laughing. She had the disdain reversed, for God's sake. It was the English who detested the colonists and not the other way around. "Have you forgotten that you just happen to be English too?"

Caroline chose to ignore his question. "Most of the English uppercrust are disloyal," Caroline answered. She was trying to infuriate him and knew that she was failing miserably. His laughter bothered her and she had trouble continuing. The anger he had earlier displayed was far more welcome, and the sudden shift didn't make sense. Caroline felt off balance again. "Most have turned against their own king in his time of need. His own son tried to betray him once and will, no doubt, try again. Why are you laughing? Don't you know when you are being insulted?" Caroline ended her tirade, feeling as wilted as a freshly cut flower left out in the sun too long.

"Now I believe that it is my turn to speak," Bradford stated with firmness. "First, I will tell you why I want you."

"I don't care why you want me," Caroline objected. She glanced over his shoulder to see if anyone was listening to their conversation and then looked back at her adversary. "I imagine," she whispered, "from the way that you kissed me, that you lust for… that you want my body." She blushed but couldn't help herself.

"I admit that I do want you in my bed. You're a very beautiful woman."

"That is not significant," Caroline snapped out. Bradford realized, from the way she stated it, that she really didn't know how lovely she was. It was a refreshing observation. Most women used their looks as weapons to obtain whatever they wanted.

"Do you know that you make me laugh?" he asked.

Caroline waited for him to go on but when he didn't, she let her frustration show. "Of course I know that I make you laugh " she said with exasperation in her voice. "You have just finished laughing at me. I'm not deaf. And I imagine that most of the people inside heard you laughing too," she added with a scowl.

"I wasn't laughing at you," Bradford insisted. He tried for a serious expression and failed miserably. "But with you."

"Then why wasn't I laughing?" Caroline challenged. "Don't be diplomatic with me. It's wasted effort. Since you insist on honesty, then I will give you a full portion. I don't want to be attracted to you. I am a person who likes to be in control and I won't stand for being overpowered or frightened by anyone. Therefore, since you are overbearing and quite arrogant, intimidating and overpowering, we would not get on well at all. I am afraid you will just have to want someone else. Someone meek, I think, who wouldn't mind being run over all the time. Would you like me to help you find someone suitable? You have given me some of your requirements." Her eyes got that peculiar look again and Bradford found himself eager to hear her next remark. "You want someone loyal, trustworthy, loving, and-oh, yes! I almost forgot. Someone you can laugh at."

"You forget honesty," Bradford interjected with a grin. He was smiling inside, too, for Caroline, aware of it or not, had given him hope. She had acknowledged that she was afraid of him. Bradford interpreted that to mean that she was afraid of her reaction to him. He felt new confidence over that information.

"Of course, she must be honest," Caroline agreed with a nod. "Now then, for your perfect woman do you prefer a lady with blonde hair or brown? Blue eyes or hazel? Short of stature or tall? Only tell me and I will go inside and have a look around."

"Black hair, with angry violet eyes," Bradford stated. "And her height should be somewhere between short and tall."

"You have described me," Caroline answered. "I'm not perfect, milord. I do have faults."

"I am aware of several," Bradford told her. He couldn't resist her a second longer and quickly leaned down to kiss her.

Caroline didn't have time to resist, as the kiss was over before she could do more than blink. She pushed him away. "You are aware of my faults?" she asked, pretending that the kiss had not happened.

"You dislike the Irish and the English, laugh at inopportune times, have quite a temper, and jump to conclusions that aren't always correct," Bradford answered. "Should I continue?"

"No, you should not," Caroline returned. "But you are incorrect in your list. I don't dislike all the Irish or all the English, only the rude ones. I do have a temper and I do laugh at inopportune times, but I am working on both these flaws. I rarely jump to conclusions that are not accurate. But you appear to be too arrogant to admit to any faults and are therefore in much sorrier shape."

"Your honesty overwhelms me," Bradford returned with a grin. "And your humility almost brings me to my knees." His chuckle was rich and totally unappreciated by his adversary. Bradford realized that if he continued to bait her he certainly wouldn't further his cause, yet he couldn't seem to help himself. He hadn't had this much fun in years.

"I don't believe anyone could bring you to your knees," Caroline remarked. She smiled then and Bradford shook his head.

"You're enjoying the picture of it though, aren't you?" he asked.

"I am," Caroline answered. "We must get back inside before we are missed."

Bradford let her believe that there was a possibility that they had not been observed leaving together. He knew the truth, that by now everyone inside was whispering speculations and spreading tales. Nothing of importance was missed by the hawk eyes of most of the ladies inside. And from past experience, the Duke of Bradford knew that anything he did caused gossip.

Caroline's reputation wouldn't be soiled because he was paying attention to her. Besides, if he educated her in this matter, she would insist on returning to her father's side. He wanted only a minute longer with her, he told himself, just one more minute alone.

"We shouldn't have kissed and we shouldn't have spoken with such familiarity to one another. We don't know each other well enough to confide such things," Caroline stated. She was about to tell him that she hoped he would forget the entire conversation, but Bradford's next remark threw her off balance once again.

"I know all about you," he boasted. "You have lived with your aunt and uncle on a farm outside of Boston for the last fourteen years. Your uncle has embraced Boston as his home and has turned his back on England. Your cousin, Charity, is more like a sister to you. Though she is older, by six months, she follows your lead most of the time. Your father, the Earl of Braxton, is now considered eccentric and has lived as a recluse for many years. You are handy with pistols though at one time you used to get physically ill whenever you touched one. You considered that a flaw and worked until you overcame it. Is that enough for you? Are you convinced that I know all about you or should I continue?"

Caroline was amazed by Bradford's comments. "How have you learned all this?"

"It isn't relevant," Bradford returned.

"But why have you-"

"I am interested in you," Bradford interrupted. The statement was spoken in a quiet voice. His expression turned serious and Caroline found herself becoming nervous all over again. "Caroline, I always get what I want. When you get to know me better, you will accept."

"I don't want to hear this!" Caroline made the protest in a fierce whisper. "You sound like a child who has been overindulged."

Bradford wasn't offended by her comment. He shrugged his massive shoulders and replied, "You'll have to get used to me, I suppose. But in time, you will accept. I won't be defeated, Caroline, only delayed."

"I have heard that many of the married ladies in England take lovers," Caroline said. "Is that why you suggested that I become your mistress?"

"I never suggested you become my mistress," Bradford said. "You are jumping to your own conclusions, Caroline. But yes, there are those who bed other men once they are married."

"Then they are to be pitied," Caroline remarked. Anger sounded in her voice. "They not only betray their husbands, but also make a mockery of the vows they have taken."

Her statement pleased Bradford but he didn't let her know it. He waited for her to continue. "You say that you know me well, yet you insult me by believing I am like one of your English ladies. You are the one who has jumped to the wrong conclusions."

Bradford had difficulty following her argument. His confusion showed and Caroline sighed with exasperation. "I am waiting for an apology."

For his answer, Bradford leaned down and placed a kiss on the top of her head. "I warn you, Caroline. I won't be swayed. I will have you."

Caroline started to argue with him and then realized how futile it would be. The man's mind was set and she knew she couldn't change it. "You make it sound like a challenge."

"It is a fact," he replied, his voice leaving no room for doubt.

"And if it is a challenge," Caroline said in a soft whisper, "then you are my opponent. I warn you, milord, I don't play games I can't win."

"I think, Caroline," Bradford returned in a whisper that touched her heart, "that we will both be winners." He sealed his promise with a long, satisfying kiss.

"Lynnie, whatever are you doing!" Charity's voice penetrated the shared kiss between Bradford and Caroline. "Oh, it is you, milord! I knew you would pursue my cousin, but you really mustn't be out here by yourselves. I don't believe it's at all proper."

Charity smiled at Bradford when he pulled away from Caroline. "Didn't I tell you, Caroline, that he was taken with you?"

Bradford grinned and Caroline groaned. She had just been caught in a most awkward position, and there wasn't any way she could convince Charity that she wasn't a willing participant. Good heavens, her arms had been clinging to Bradford's shoulders.

"Quit smiling and explain yourself to my cousin," Caroline demanded as she nudged Bradford's arm.

"Certainly," Bradford answered. "But first, allow me to introduce myself," Bradford stated with mock seriousness. Caroline, reading the vast amusement lurking in his eyes, decided to intervene.

"Charity, this is Bradford. He's a duke," she added almost as an afterthought. "And it was a good-bye forever kiss that we just shared, wasn't it, milord?"

"Good-bye until tomorrow," Bradford returned. He ignored Caroline's more determined nudge and took hold of Charity's hand. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Charity."

Bradford and Charity exchanged pleasantries and then she asked, "Do you happen to know a man by the name of Paul Bleachley?" She glanced over at Caroline for approval and her cousin nodded encouragement with a gentle smile. She knew how important the matter was to Charity and felt guilty that she wasn't helping more.

"I do."

Bradford's quietly stated reply caused quite a stir. Caroline grabbed him by the arm and tried to turn him back to face her, but it was like trying to move a rather large elm tree. He was firmly rooted to the ground.

Charity also tried to gain his full attention, tugging with insistence on his other arm. "Have you seen him recently?" she asked in a breathless voice.

Bradford took hold of Caroline's hand and pulled her into his side. Then he gave Charity his full attention. His thumb rubbed against the palm of Caroline's hand as he listened to Charity explain how she had met Paul Bleachley.

"Can you tell me if he is married?" Charity asked. "He left Boston so suddenly, and without a word of explanation."

"No," Bradford answered. "He isn't married. He returned from the Colonies several months ago and is now living in his home on the outskirts of London."

There was much more to tell, but Bradford was reluctant to go on. From Charity's reaction to the news that Bleachley was back in England, he realized that the two must have formed an attachment while Paul was in Boston. Her eyes filled with tears and Caroline tried to pull away from Bradford's hold to offer her comfort. Bradford wouldn't allow it. He pulled a linen handkerchief from his pocket and handed it to Charity, and then suggested that she return to her uncle and that they would shortly follow.

Caroline smiled when she saw the handkerchief. There wasn't a bit of lace on it. It wasn't like Brummell's bit of fluff at all.

"Is she in love with Paul?"

Bradford's question demanded an answer. Caroline nodded. "He made promises he didn't keep," she replied. "He has broken her heart."

"Paul is also broken," Bradford said. "I imagine that he loved her or he wouldn't have made any promises. He is an honorable man."

"You're mistaken," Caroline argued. "Charity told me that he asked her to marry him and that she accepted. Then he disappeared."

Bradford continued to hold Caroline's hand as they strolled toward the doorway. "I will tell you what I know, but you must think long and hard over it before you decide if you will tell Charity. What I am about to say will only cause your cousin added pain, and I think that perhaps she should be spared the truth."

Caroline turned so that she faced Bradford and blocked their way. "Then tell me and let me decide," she demanded.

"Paul was injured while in Boston. There was an explosion and his ship was destroyed. He almost died and will carry the scars for the rest of his life. He lives like a hermit in a small cottage about an hour's ride from here and will not even allow his relatives to see him."

"Have you seen him?" Caroline asked. She was appalled by the story and ached with concern for her cousin and Paul Bleachley.

"Yes, shortly after he returned to London. He has lost the use of one arm, and his face has been disfigured."

Caroline closed her eyes and shook her head. "I believed the worst of him when he disappeared like that, but Charity never accepted that he willingly abandoned her." She took a deep breath and then said, "Describe his face to me. Don't think me ghoulish, Bradford. I need to know in order to tell Charity."

Bradford shook his head. "You aren't listening to me. Paul won't even let me see him anymore. And I have known him since we were children. One side of his face was burned and his left eye protrudes from the socket. He is no longer handsome."

"She never loved him because he was handsome," Caroline argued with conviction. "We Richmonds are not so shallow, Bradford. It's what I was trying to tell you earlier. Wanting someone because he or she is attractive is not important. Charity has more substance to her than you realize."

She took hold of Bradford's hand, unaware of the affectionate gesture she was making and his reaction to it. He knew that she wasn't conscious of what she was doing, understood that she was only concentrating on what he had just told her, but still felt a small victory over the touch. It was a beginning and he recognized it as such.

It was true that he could force a reaction from her. She had responded to his kiss, but he had had to initiate it. The touch was somehow symbolic to him. Bradford found himself smiling inside.

"The family has given Charity a nickname. They call her Butterfly," Caroline said. "She does seem to flutter about like one, and she is as pretty as a butterfly," Caroline continued. "But she's also strong. She loves Paul Bleachley and I don't believe that his injuries will change her heart."

"Then you plan on telling her?" Bradford sounded worried. "Paul's my friend and I won't be a party to causing him more pain. The man's been through enough."

Caroline nodded. She understood his concern and admitted that if the situation were reversed, she would probably be as protective as Bradford. "You will have to trust me in this matter," she told him.

It would have been easier if she had asked him to hand over his fortune, or his right arm for that matter. Trust! It wasn't possible. Bradford's face returned to its hard, cynical expression. Caroline noticed the abrupt change and the firm set of his jaw and mouth. But having been kissed by that same mouth, having touched the softness beneath the rough facade, Caroline knew the look of granite was just a way of blocking what he was truly feeling. "I assume, from the way you are looking at me, that my statement doesn't please you," Caroline stated. "You don't wish to trust me?"

He didn't answer her, and Caroline frowned with puzzlement. She decided to let the matter drop and let go of his hand. "Thank you for telling me about Bleachley," she said. Before he could stop her, she hurried toward the open doorway. She paused at the entrance and turned back to look at him. "And thank you for apologizing. I know it was difficult for you."

Bradford was at first irritated by being so casually dismissed and then saw the humor in the situation. He was the Duke of Bradford and he realized that Caroline Richmond wasn't the least impressed. He caught up with her and grabbed hold of her elbow. "I did not apologize."

Caroline glanced up with a smile. "But you would have, if I had given you more time." She turned back to look at the crowd then, dismissing him once again.

Bradford started laughing. He hadn't smiled or laughed in such a long time, and he knew that she was correct. If given enough time, he probably would have apologized. She was right about that and she was also correct about his thoughts of an arrangement. He might have made her his mistress, regardless of the consequences, if she had been willing. He had been rash, assuming that she was like most of the other women he had known, and now he found that he would have to reevaluate his position and his course of action.

Caroline Richmond confused him and he didn't like admitting that at all. She spurned his title and his money, and he almost believed her. Didn't she know what he could offer her? He couldn't accept that material offerings were not important to her. She was a woman, after all. But she was more clever in her game than most. And more obstinate. Well, he wouldn't be deterred. No matter how difficult the challenge, he would conquer. He wondered if she realized what she was up against. Obviously not, he decided. He realized that he was frowning now and quickly changed his expression to show none of the emotions warring inside.

Caroline had stated that she wanted someone considerate! In all of his years, Bradford knew he had never been thought of as such. Brutal and ruthless were easy descriptions he had heard whispered about him in the past. But considerate? He didn't even know exactly what that meant. He would find out, of course. If she demanded consideration, then by God that's what she would get.

"There you are, Daughter." Caroline's father's voice interrupted Bradford's thoughts. She had just reached the entrance to the ballroom when she was intercepted by the earl. "It really isn't the thing, darling, to take off like that."

"I'm sorry, Father," Caroline answered, looking contrite. She placed a quick kiss on his cheek. "I was carried away," she added, glancing back toward Bradford.

"Yes, of course," her father agreed. "Understandable your first night out. Are you having a good time?" he inquired with a smile of expectation.

Caroline knew what was expected of her and immediately replied, "It is all quite wonderful, and I have met so many interesting people."

The affection was obvious in her tender gaze as she smiled at her father, and Bradford found himself envying the special relationship that existed between the two as he joined them. He thought it remarkable, too, since he had learned that Braxton had sent his daughter to the Colonies and had not seen her in fourteen years. That course of action obviously hadn't strained her love for him, and Bradford thought that unusual.

"I knew you would enjoy yourself. And you, Bradford?" her father continued, beaming. "Are you enjoying the evening?"

Before Bradford could answer, Braxton continued, "You have caused quite a commotion tonight. You don't usually attend these functions, do you?"

"I have been remiss in my duties," Bradford replied. "But I plan to change my ways. Tonight has proven to be quite stimulating," he continued as he glanced at Caroline. "I am enjoying myself immensely."

"Ah! Here come the marquis and Charity." The earl waited until both his niece and his brother-in-law had joined the group and then said to Bradford, "You remember the Marquis of Aimsmond?" Caroline noticed that her father's voice now sounded most formal. She heard the tone of deference and decided that Bradford must be the most significant of the title gentlemen here. She found that amusing, since he was so much younger than her father or her uncle.

Bradford nodded that he did, indeed, remember the marquis. It was the curt nod of a duke, an acknowledgment of a man used to his position. He certainly did know how to be correct! Caroline smiled and couldn't explain why. His correctness pleased her, added a new dimension to his character. "It is good to see you again, Aimsmond."

"And you also, Bradford," the marquis returned with a smile. He turned to Caroline's father then and said, "Our host has requested a word with us."

"Of course," the earl answered. "I will be right back, Caroline."

"With your permission," Bradford interjected, "I would like to introduce Caroline to the Earl of Milfordhurst and then return her to your side." Caroline's father smiled and nodded his approval.

He took hold of Charity's arm and followed behind the marquis.

Bradford led Caroline off in the opposite direction, toward the far side of the ballroom.

Milford saw Bradford approaching with the beautiful woman at his side and immediately excused himself from the group he was engaged in conversation with. He moved to meet the twosome halfway.

"Caroline, may I present my friend, William Summers, Earl of Milfordhurst," Bradford announced. "Milford, this is Lady Caroline Mary Richmond, the Earl of Braxton's daughter."

"I am pleased to meet you," Caroline said. She made a small curtsy while she sized up the handsome man taking hold of her hand. He appeared to be very much of a rascal from his grin to the sparkle in his green eyes.

"The pleasure is all mine," Milford announced with a formal bow. "So this is the lady from the Colonies," he commented to Bradford. "And is that a new gown you're wearing?" he asked Caroline.

She was surprised by his question but nodded her head. "Yes, it's a design of Madam Newcott's," she added.

Milford shot Bradford a knowing look and chuckled.

Caroline wasn't sure what was going on between the two but didn't have time to dwell on it. Charity joined the group, her full skirt swinging as she came to an abrupt stop. She smiled at Bradford and then at his friend.

Bradford immediately introduced her to Milford. While Charity confided her thoughts about the evening, Braxton arrived and Bradford, ignoring his friend's widening grin, immediately requested a private meeting.

As soon as Bradford and the earl had moved off to an alcove, Milford saw to refreshments for Charity and Caroline.

Charity continued to control the conversation, and Caroline smiled patiently as she listened to her cousin's excited comments. She decided, by the way Milford gave Charity his complete attention, that he was a nice man, and easy to like. He seemed to have a gentle nature.

"How long have you known Bradford?" Caroline inquired when Charity paused in her remarks.

"Since we were small boys," Milford replied. "We are like brothers."

"And we are like sisters," Charity interjected. "Oh, dear, is that our host signaling me? I do believe that I have promised this set to him. He certainly is spry for a man of his advanced years! If you will excuse me?" She sighed as she lifted her skirt and whispered to Caroline, "Pray that my feet hold out." And then she was off in a flurry of pink silk.

"I owe you a debt," Milford announced when he and Caroline stood alone.

Caroline gave Milford a puzzled look and waited for him to explain. "Brad had forgotten how to smile. You have helped him remember."

Caroline smiled. "He is not of an easy disposition, is he?"

Milford chuckled, nodding his head. "An astute observation," he commented. "I knew that I would like you."

Caroline's eyes widened. Tonight was full of surprises. First Bradford calmly recited her history, and now his friend indicated that he also knew of her. Was she a stranger to anyone?

"I have heard several comments concerning Bradford," Caroline said. "Why is it such an event for him to smile?"

Milford shrugged. "There hasn't been much to make him smile." His answer was too general to satisfy Caroline's curiosity.

"I think that you are a nice man " Caroline stated.

"He is nice but I'm not?" Bradford's voice came from behind Caroline and she turned, both startled and pleased.

"Exactly," Caroline answered. "You could take a few lessons from your friend."

Bradford scowled and Milford, observing the two, realized that Caroline wasn't the least put off by his friend.

Caroline remembered telling Bradford that she wished to marry someone considerate and that he didn't qualify. She recognized his irritation and smiled over it.

Dinner was announced and Caroline was sorry for it, as she would have liked to continue baiting her frowning adversary. Both Bradford and Milford offered her their arms but Caroline declined their invitations, stating that she must join her father and her uncle at their table. She glanced around and spotted her father surrounded by a large number of young men. Bradford followed her look and frowned even more.

"They think to gain your attention through your father," Bradford announced. He sounded disgusted, and Caroline turned back to look at him.

"You plan to stay at Caroline's side the rest of the evening?" Milford asked, grinning.

"No," Bradford answered. He knew his friend jested but his irritation continued. "I will, however, have a short discussion with some of the more eager gentlemen before the evening is over."

Milford chuckled, bowed to Caroline, and took his leave. Bradford took hold of Caroline's arm, in what could only be interpreted as a sign of possession, and slowly led her toward the dining area.

"Isn't that the Earl of Stanton talking with Charity?" Caroline asked. She remembered the young man when he was introduced to her at the beginning of the evening.

"No," Bradford replied. "He is Earl of Stanton."

Caroline looked up at Bradford to see if he was teasing her, but his expression was guarded and she couldn't read his thoughts. "Haven't I just said that he was?" she asked.

Bradford realized that Caroline hadn't understood his comment and smiled. It was a tender smile and Caroline wondered over it. "There is a distinction when using'the,'" he explained. "If I tell you that he is the Earl of Stanton, then you know that he is the highest titled in his family. However, if I say that he is Earl of Stanton, then you know that there is another in his line with a higher title."

"Thank you for instructing me," Caroline said. Her voice was filled with appreciation. "You're called the Duke of Bradford and so I am to conclude that you are the highest titled in your family?"

"Yes," Bradford admitted. "But I'm also Earl of Whelburne, the Earl of Canton, Marquis of Summertonham, and Viscount Benton."

Bradford smiled over Caroline's astonished reaction to his titles. "And are you a knight also?" she asked, shaking her head.

"Not yet," he answered. "The honor of becoming a knight must be bestowed by the king and isn't inherited."

"I understand," Caroline said. "I realize that you must think my education is sadly lacking. But I've lived in Boston, where titles are not significant. Besides that fact, my Uncle Henry didn't believe that I would ever return to England. And he didn't hold much store in titles either. He believed that a man was only as good as what he had accomplished, not what his fathers had done before him. For that reason, I wasn't schooled properly I suppose," Caroline said with a sigh. "Uncle and I just didn't think it necessary or important."

The Earl of Braxton joined them and Bradford was forced to take his leave. "We will continue with our discussion tomorrow," he stated before parting. He reluctantly let go of her arm, missing the feel of her immediately. "When I call on you. Your father has given me permission."

During dinner, Caroline was seated beside her uncle and across from her father. When the two men began to share remembrances about Caroline's mother, the woman they had both loved, she knew that all was once again right between them. Bradford escorted Charity to their table and once again departed. His expression when he bid her good night was properly schooled, yet Caroline read amusement in his eyes. She wondered what he found so humorous and soon had her answer.

"It was the most embarrassing thing!" Charity whispered to Caroline when she was seated. "I thought I was talking to our host but he must have moved away and I was busy watching everyone and when Bradford came up to me, I do believe he thought I was in deep discussion with a potted plant."

Caroline almost choked on her champagne. She tried desperately not to laugh, knowing that Charity's feelings would be hurt. Her cousin looked quite mortified.

"What did he say?" Caroline asked.

"Not a word," Charity whispered back. "He just took hold of my elbow and led me to you. He's a gentleman," she ended with a sigh.

Caroline nodded. She turned to her father and asked for Charity's spectacles. And then she handed them to her cousin with a look that suggested she put them on.

"Have you heard all the comments about your Bradford?" Charity asked in another whisper. She didn't wish to disturb the conversation under way between Caroline's father and uncle.

"He isn't my Bradford," Caroline protested, and then couldn't help but ask, "What comments?"

"The man never attends anything. Everyone is amazed tonight. He really seems to be enjoying himself too. Our host is quite pleased. Caroline! Did you know that your father hasn't been out in public in years? Everyone believes that you are the cause of both miracles."

Caroline remembered what Milford had said to her, that he owed her a debt for teaching his friend how to smile.

"He had only forgotten how," Caroline whispered.

Caroline glanced up and saw Bradford standing in the center of a group of very pretty ladies. They were all giggling coyly and it bothered her the way the silly females were fawning all over him. She couldn't understand why she felt irritated and tried to tell herself that she should be relieved. What was the matter with her?

She didn't have more time to dwell on her feelings and was thankful for it. The next hour was spent meeting friends and acquaintances of her father and her uncle. Some were titled and others were not. Caroline said as little as possible to each new arrival, worried that she would incorrectly address someone of importance and show her ignorance.

Caroline felt very much like the isolated farmgirl she was, and totally out of place as she curtsied again and again to the uppercrust of England's society.

She was introduced to Lady Tillman, an old friend of her father's, and learned from a whispered comment made by her uncle that at one time the woman had set her sights on her father.

Lady Tillman turned out to be much like the other ladies attending the ball, only an older, rounder version. She must have practiced her expressions before a mirror, Caroline decided, by the way she carefully, ever so slowly, showed delight, interest, and pleasure. Caroline thought her boring and artificial and was disappointed by her contrived charm. Disappointed because her father seemed truly enchanted with the woman.

Caroline decided that Lady Tillman bore watching. Guilt nagged her when she thought how lonely her father had been. For his sake, she did try to like the gray-haired, brown-eyed woman, but found after a short time that she couldn't, especially when the older lady dissolved into controlled giggles over a remark that wasn't remotely humorous.

Lady Tillman's daughter was a younger version of her mother, in looks and expressions. She seemed to be of a weak nature too.

Rachel Tillman was spoken for, Lady Tillman informed Caroline and Charity. She then sent the earl off to locate Rachel's future husband, and as soon as he returned and introduced Nigel Crestwall, Caroline felt a new emotion for Rachel Tillman. She felt acutely sorry for her.

Nigel Crestwall had the eyes of a sly fox. He didn't look at Caroline, he leered. She felt extremely uncomfortable in his presence and was thankful when Rachel whined him into dancing with her.

The marquis was beginning to look fatigued, and Caroline suggested that they return to the dining room for dessert. Once they were settled, Viscount Claymere begged, rather dramatically, to be allowed to join them, and then Terrence St. James requested an introduction and also sat down.

Caroline quickly tired of the competitive way both the viscount and the bold St. James fought for her attention. She happened to look up and saw Bradford standing across the room, watching her. A woman Caroline could only describe as stunning clung to his side and was looking up at him with adoration in her eyes.

Bradford held a glass of wine in his hand and tilted it as a greeting and perhaps a toast, Caroline thought. She nodded and was about to lift her glass to return the gesture when the viscount leaned forward and knocked the piece of crystal out of her hand. The linen tablecloth was saturated with champagne but Caroline ignored it as she tried to calm the viscount. He was making quite a scene with his apologies and she had to grit her teeth and listen through it.

When he was finally quieted, she looked up again and saw that the accident had provided much entertainment for the Duke of Bradford. His grin reached from one ear to the other.

Caroline found herself smiling in return and then shook her head and returned to the conversation going on around her. St. James kept grabbing hold of her hand and she had to keep pulling it away.

The night finally drew to a close. Caroline hugged her uncle and promised, for the tenth time, to visit him the day after tomorrow for tea. She and Charity then said their farewells and expressed their pleasure over the evening to the Duke of Ashford.

"What did Bradford speak to you about?" Caroline asked when her father finished listening to Charity's descriptions of her evening.

"He will call on you tomorrow," her father announced. He sounded very satisfied. "Told him that he was the fifth to ask my permission," he said with a chuckle. "He didn't like that bit of news, I can tell you."

"Bradford is pursuing Caroline," Charity remarked.

"I believe that most of London's male population is in pursuit," the earl said. "But your cousin isn't the only one to receive invitations. I've had a flood of requests for your attention, too, Charity."

"You have?" Charity didn't sound overly pleased with her uncle's news.

"Yes, and we must go over all of them tomorrow. I imagine you will both receive flowers and messages, although it has been years since I've done any actual courting and the rituals might have changed a bit, I dare say. Hard to keep abreast of the latest doings, you understand."

Charity's alarmed expression increased the more her uncle went on about the suitable men wanting her attention. Caroline caught her eye and shook her head, signaling her to keep her silence. She didn't want her father's pleasure to be diminished and would have a long talk with Charity as soon as they were alone.

Charity caught the message and nodded. Caroline tried to concentrate on her father's conversation but Bradford's face kept intruding. She suddenly pictured Clarence, her Boston suitor. And then Clarence and Bradford were standing side by side in her mind's eye and Caroline heard herself groan. The comparison between the two men was laughable. Clarence was still a boy, Bradford a man. Clarence had always reminded Caroline of one of the new foals on the farm, awkward and terribly unsure of himself whenever he was around her. Bradford, on the other hand, reminded Caroline of her favorite stallion. Bradford was strong, vital! His stance indicated confidence and strength. She wondered if, like her stallion, he possessed endurance as well. That consideration gave her a moment's pause. Would he endure in his desire to have her? It was a bizarre comparison and Caroline blamed her exhaustion for these ridiculous thoughts.