Courtship at Shadowcrest: A Regency Duet

Book 5: The Strongs of Shadowcrest

by Alexa Aston

Genres: Historical Romance; Regency Romance; Regency romance; England; 1800s; Regency Historical Romance; Alexa Aston; Regency Duet; The Strongs of Shadowcrest; house party

Synopsis

Courtship at Shadowcrest is a Regency duet that tells the love stories of twins Allegra and Lyric Strong, nieces to James Strong, the Duke of Seaton.

Part 1: Tempted by the Earl

A cavalier rakehell. A feisty beauty. A powerful love which shakes this pair to their core . . .

High-spirted and impulsive, Miss Allegra Strong thinks more with her heart than with her head. She refused her cousin’s offer to pay for her come-out, but the duke’s wife wishes to host a house party at Season’s end for Allegra and her twin. Both girls hope to make love matches with an invited guest.

Sterling Ayles, Earl of Carroll, has the blackest reputation among the ton. He is a man who seduces women with both words and actions and can’t understand why he receives an invitation to the house party given by the Duke and Duchess of Seaton. No one refuses a duke and his duchess, though. Sterling journeys to Kent, expecting to enjoy good food and company—with possibly a bit of light flirting—before he returns to his hedonistic life in London.

Much to Sterling’s surprise, he is thunderstruck when meeting Allegra Strong. Despite having no desire to don the shackles of marriage, Sterling finds himself offering marriage to Allegra.

Can a stubborn beauty who will only marry for love tame the best-known rake in London?

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Part 2: The Viscount’s Heart

A charming rogue. A serene beauty. And a fear which will drive the couple apart . . .

Miss Lyric Strong is a nurturing, capable young woman, loyal to her family and her twin sister Allegra. She is thrilled when her ducal cousin informs her of the house party which will be held in Lyric and Allegra’s honor, hoping she will find love as others in her family have done.

Lord Blankenship was ignored by his selfish parents, never winning their attention, must less their love. While intelligent and congenial, the handsome rogue has never felt worthy. He is trying to be a better man ever since assuming his title and is ready to find his viscountess.

At the Duke of Seaton’s house party, Silas finds the woman he wishes to make his wife and offers for her. Lyric, however, only will wed for love, and Silas cannot bring himself to utter the words Lyric longs to hear.

Will Silas find the courage to believe in himself and love—and convince Lyric they can share a life of happiness?

* Each book in The Strongs of Shadowcrest is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order or can be read in Kindle Unlimited!

The Strongs of Shadowcrest
Book #1: The Duke’s Unexpected Love
Book #2: The Perks of Loving a Viscount
Book #3: Falling for the Marquess
Book #4: The Captain and the Duchess
Book #5: Courtship at Shadowcrest (Regency Duet – includes Tempted by the Earl and The Viscount’s Heart)
Book #6: The Marquess’ Quest for Love
Book #7: The Duke’s Guide to Winning a Lady

 

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Release date: July 24, 2024

Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.

Sample

PROLOGUE

Oxford—November 1803

 

Sterling Ayles flipped the woman onto her back, climbing atop her and thrusting in and out, hearing her call his name as she writhed beneath him.

He couldn’t recall hers.

He buried himself in her a final time and then quickly pulled out, spilling his seed in the handkerchief which lay nearby. Sterling had no interest in fathering any bastards. Actually, he had no interest in being a father to legitimate children, either. Being the heir apparent to his father, the Earl of Carroll, he supposed he would have to think about providing an heir of his own someday. That day would be a long way off, however. He was only twenty years of age. Even if his father dropped dead tomorrow, Sterling wouldn’t think of taking a wife for another twenty years. It was far too much fun to tup a woman and move on.

Wives meant taking responsibility. That was the last thing he cared about now. He still had two years left at university, where he’d spent more time gambling and bedding women than he had with any Oxford don. He planned to continue this pattern, living in the moment and only one day at a time.

He knew he was incredibly attractive to women and took pride in being the rogue he was. He was charming and smooth-talking. A great raconteur. A man others—both men and women—wished to be around. His life was about seeking pleasure and enjoying himself, knowing his smile was irresistible and able to get him whatever he wanted.

Besides, why should he settle down and become responsible? He was young and selfish, not caring what others thought. Especially his parents. While Sterling believed no one knew the true him, the people who knew him the least were the pair who had brought him into the world. Both the Earl and Countess of Carroll still seemed surprised when they came across him on the rare occasions they were in the same household at the same time. The couple was self-centered and hated country life. They had abandoned him to be raised by nannies and tutors and the household servants at Carrollwood, only coming home for a week around Christmas to East Sussex. They were parents in name only, and he refused to acknowledge them as thus.

Sterling believed he had raised himself. He had no other siblings and had gone away to school when he was but eight years of age. Holidays had usually been spent at the country estates of friends, though he had come home to Carrollwood each Christmas, in part to see if his parents still recognized him or might wish to apologize for abandoning him as they had. While they would speak to him briefly, they had little to do with him during their brief respite at home. Finally, he had stopped bothering to speak to them. He came home and did as he pleased and then returned to school, and now university.

At Oxford, he had made a few friends, though he wasn’t truly close to anyone. Everyone found him amusing and charming, but it seemed no one saw the true Sterling Ayles. Of course, he did try to keep the real Sterling hidden from the world. He had done so for so long, even he wasn’t quite certain who that man really was.

The widow in bed with him stroked his arm. “That was lovely, my lord,” she said, giving him a come-hither look.

But he was done with her. They had coupled several times. He had no need of becoming involved with one woman or seeing to her needs. Even though he admitted he was selfish in that regard, women still flocked to him.

“Fools,” he said under his breath, shaking his head.

“What was that?” she asked.

He smiled, knowing it would distract her. “Nothing. I must be going, though.”

“When will I see you again?” she asked, her hand still moving along his arm.

“You won’t,” he said bluntly. “We are done.”

Her bottom lip trembled as she sat up. “Did I do something wrong, my lord?”

“No, nothing at all,” he assured her, smiling again to reassure her. “I simply must dedicate more time to my studies. I want my father to be proud of me, you know.”

That was so far from the truth, he bit the inside of his mouth to keep from bursting into laughter. Fortunately, he was a good actor, and he saw from her face that she believed the outlandish lie.

“I know you work hard,” she said. “You must have so much to read.”

“I do.” He brushed the hair back from her face. “I have neglected my studies for you. I must remedy that now. You will find someone else.”

She sighed, moving close and kissing his shoulder. “No one like you, Ayles. You are a lover like no other.”

Rising from the bed, he pulled his shirt over his head. “Well, I am glad that I have satisfied you.”

He finished dressing and then blew her a kiss, which she pretended to catch.

“Good luck with your studies,” she called as he exited the bedchamber and hurried down the stairs.

Sterling pulled his greatcoat tightly about him, trying to ward off the damp chill in the air. The wind had picked up, making it seem colder than it truly was.

He stopped in a pub for a quick meal, and then returned to his rented rooms. Of course, his father paid for them, but the man had never asked Sterling one question about his time at Oxford. Where he lived. What he studied. Who his friends were. Instead, the family solicitor took care of any bills Sterling acquired, along with paying tuition and the rent for the rooms. Most of his fellow students shared rooms with one or two others, but he was a loner, despite seeming so social and affable. He preferred total silence when he came home, using the quiet to pen poetry and plays. Now that would surprise his fellow students if they learned of those endeavors. Everyone knew Sterling was smart, but he brushed that aside, pretending he didn’t care for his studies or anything related to academics.

Writing fulfilled something inside him, something unspoken. He had accumulated stacks of his work but would never share them with anyone. It was for his eyes alone, an expression of who he was, the man no one knew.

Using his key, he unlocked the door to his rooms. As he stepped over the threshold, he saw someone had pushed a letter under it. He bent to retrieve it and took it to the table, where he lit a candle. It was only a little past four in the afternoon, but dark had already fallen.

He broke the seal, curious as to who had written him since this was the first letter he had received since he had come to Oxford to study. The letter was dated but carried no salutation, which Sterling found odd as he begin to read.

 

                                                                                                12 November 1803

There is no easy way to say this, so I will be blunt.

You are now the Earl of Carroll.

Your parents passed away this morning at his lordship’s London residence. A sudden fever struck them both a few days ago. The doctor was called, and he did all he could. Unfortunately, the countess succumbed to it first around four this morning, quickly followed by the earl at five-thirty.

Having prepared your father’s will, I know they wanted to be buried in town. I assume you will wish to be at their burial. I will share the contents of Lord Carroll’s will with you afterward.

I took the liberty of borrowing his lordship’s carriage and coming to Oxford to retrieve you. I am staying at the Deerfield Inn, which is near your rented rooms. I suggest you return with me to town tomorrow morning, after you have spoken to your tutors, informing them of your parents’ deaths. Certainly, they will be sympathetic to your situation and grant you a leave from your studies, at least until the beginning of the new year.

Please contact me once you have read this to confirm these plans. I am here to serve you, Lord Carroll, and will answer any questions you might have regarding the estate and your inheritance.

                                                            Sincerely,

                                                            Mr. Potter

 

Folding the letter, Sterling slipped it inside his coat’s pocket. He paused, thinking the only family he had left was now gone.

And he felt absolutely nothing.

He wondered if there might be something wrong with him, or had the fault been with his parents? While he knew from talking with other boys at school that many parents had little to do with their children, his seemed especially distant.

It didn’t matter. They were gone. Good riddance to them. He was now the Earl of Carroll. While he believed he would one day wed and produce the expected heir apparent, that day was far into the future. No reason to make him and a woman miserable by shackling themselves together now. No, he would remain at Cambridge and finish his time here, and then he would carouse to his heart’s desire, staying in London most of the year. Carrollwood had seemed a prison to him all those years growing up. He would only go to the country when absolutely necessary.

For now, he would live life as he saw fit and enjoy his wealth and status in Polite Society. Sterling would choose to look forward—and never back to his unhappy childhood.

 

 

CHAPTER 1

Shadowcrest—Kent—August 1810

 

Allegra Strong came down to breakfast with her twin Lyric. They were the last of the family to arrive this morning. Her cousin James and his wife Sophie were present, along with her aunt and two cousins. Aunt Matty was not present, but she usually ate quite early.

“Good morning, everyone,” she said as she and Lyric took their seats.

After a footman poured tea for her, she looked to Effie and asked her cousin, “Would you like to go riding this morning?

Effie shook her head. “No, I won’t have time. We will be packing.”

“Packing?” Lyric interjected. “Where on earth would you be going? The house party begins the day after tomorrow.”

James and Sophie were hosting a house party in honor of Allegra and Lyric. The party would serve as their introduction into Polite Society, albeit a small portion of it. It had been Allegra who balked against her and Lyric making their come-outs this past spring in town. While they were at the modiste’s shop being measured for an entire new wardrobe of gowns to be made up for the upcoming Season, she had overheard that James would be paying entirely for her and Lyric’s expensive wardrobes. Usually, a girl making her come-out had no less than sixty ballgowns sewn, as well as countless other gowns for other social events and receiving callers.

Her father, who was James’ uncle, had never really paid much attention to his daughters. He was close with his older son Theodore, and moderately interested in his younger son Caleb, who now served as the Shadowcrest steward. Their mother had died after producing Allegra and Lyric, and Adolphus Strong had no interest in having female twins in his nursery. Her father had let their aunt, the Duchess of Seaton, take over the responsibility of raising them. Eventually, the twins moved permanently to the Seaton household.

Allegra looked to Aunt Dinah now, the only mother she had ever known. “What is going on, Aunt?”

Her aunt was planning the entire house party. After learning of James footing the bill for their come-outs, Allegra had discussed things with her twin, and the two of them had gone to Aunt Dinah, explaining that unless their father owned up to his financial responsibilities to them, they would not make their debuts as planned. Unfortunately, the twins learned that neglect of them was only one of their father’s faults. It came out that her father and Theodore had schemed to kidnap Sophie and hold her for ransom. Adolphus Strong was bitterly disappointed that James had appeared after having vanished when he was a small boy seventeen years earlier. Adolphus had believed he would become the new Duke of Seaton when his brother died, and he would eventually pass along the title to Theodore.

When James did return to London and assumed the ducal title shortly after his father’s death, it had driven her father to the brink of despair. Fortunately, the kidnapping was foiled. James had banished his uncle and cousin to the other side of the world, with only the clothes on their backs. Allegra felt a deep shame that her relatives had conspired against James and Sophie, who were lovely to her and Lyric.

Still, Allegra did not want to remain in their household forever, dependent upon James, no matter how much he loved her and Lyric. That was why the twins had agreed to Aunt Dinah’s idea of a house party held at the end of the Season at Shadowcrest in their honor. Her aunt was managing the entire event, planning all the activities and inviting the guests, since Sophie had little interest in social affairs. She was the owner of Neptune Shipping, an active owner who ran her business. Sophie was also increasing and would give birth to her and James’ first child in about five weeks’ time, so she had been happy to turn over all aspects of the house party to Aunt Dinah.

Hopefully, now that Aunt Dinah had wed Captain Andrews recently and he had been placed in charge of the London office, he would help ease Sophie’s burden. The duchess said she would be counting on the captain to help in the daily running of her business, but she reserved the right to make critical decisions as she taught him the ropes.

Aunt Dinah said, “I think I will allow Mirella to explain since it was her idea.” She looked to her daughter.

Mirella cleared her throat. “You know that I had to delay my own come-out this spring because of the broken elbow I suffered. I still prefer to make my debut into Polite Society in a traditional fashion and will do so at the first ball held next spring. I want to experience the full slate of social activities in a Season.”

That made sense to Allegra. Mirella was mad for dancing and would most likely dance every set at each ball come next spring.

Her cousin smiled. “Besides, this house party is being given in your honor, Allegra. Yours and Lyric’s. Since I am not officially out in society, Aunt Matty is taking Effie and me on a tour.”

Effie’s eyes lit up. “We are going to the Lake District,” she shared. “It is supposed to be the most beautiful part of England. Aunt Matty said that we will enjoy the scenery, and Mirella can take her paints with her, painting various landscapes.”

“We will also be able to visit some of the larger estates in the area and tour their houses,” Mirella continued. “Aunt Matty said you can often call at a house, and the housekeeper will give you a tour of it. Effie and I are excited to not only spend time together, but with Aunt Matty, too. She has a few friends in this area, and so we will be staying with them, as well as stopping at various inns during the three or four weeks we will be gone.”

“Your trip sounds very exciting,” Lyric said enthusiastically. “In a way, I am a bit jealous and wish I could go along with you. I know, though, that Aunt Dinah has been hard at work on this party for us. I am eager to meet the guests coming and partake in all the activities which are planned.” Her twin smiled mysteriously. “Who knows? Allegra and I might actually find someone to call our own when all is said and done.”

Allegra knew house parties took place often at the end of a Season or during Christmastime. She had been looking forward to making her come-out this spring alongside her cousins Georgie and Mirella, as well as Lyric. Georgie had experienced a most successful Season, marrying a former army officer who was now the Marquess of Edgethorne. They had wed in June, and August had taken Georgie to Scotland for an extended honeymoon. They were supposed to return sometime in early September to August’s country estate. Edgefield was in Surrey and not far from Shadowcrest in Kent.

She had seen how happy her cousin Pippa was when she married Seth, Viscount Hopewell, and Georgie looked just as joyful when she wed August. Aunt Dinah had continued to have a glow about her since her wedding to Captain Andrews, and so Allegra was quite aware of the love matches being made within the Strong family. She wondered if Lyric was right and that the possibility of finding love during this upcoming party at Shadowcrest might exist.

She knew these type of parties were held in order to give people a way to come to know one another in a small, intimate setting. The Season was full of meeting dozens of gentlemen, but because of the sheer numbers of guests at events and the rules enforced by the ton, it was difficult to truly get to know someone. Aunt Dinah had said she had invited five eligible bachelors to the house party, along with three unwed ladies. That would keep the numbers even at five men and five women, now that Mirella and Effie would not be taking part.

“I hope you have a lovely time with Aunt Matty,” Allegra said. “When will you return?”

“Aunt Matty believes we should be home by the end of the second week in September or early in the third week,” Mirella explained.

They finished their breakfasts, with Mirella and Effie going upstairs to pack. Allegra assumed Aunt Matty had already breakfasted and was now packing, as well. While she would miss her cousins, she could understand Mirella’s desire to be brought out in a more formal manner. After all, she was the sister of a duke. As for Effie, she would not even make her come-out until a year after Mirella did. Allegra wondered if Effie would ever wish to settle down in marriage. Her cousin was quite nurturing, but it involved animals. Effie had often remarked that animals were better friends than people. Allegra only hoped Effie would mature a bit more and change her mind, since she believed her youngest cousin would make for a wonderful wife and mother, nurturing her family as she did her strays.

Aunt Dinah asked if she and Lyric would like to come to her sitting room, and both girls quickly agreed to do so. Allegra had always liked spending special time with her aunt, who had made her and Lyric feel wanted and loved. The four daughters of the Duke of Seaton were more like sisters to them than cousins since they had all been brought up in the same household.

When they arrived, Aunt Dinah handed each girl a small, wrapped present. Allegra’s heart sped up, guessing what it was. She and Lyric opened them and held up the gold lockets.

“You know I have given the same locket to Georgina and Pippa,” their aunt said. “It is inscribed with the initial of your first name, and inside is a lock of your baby hair which I snipped many years ago.”

“Thank you, Aunt Dinah,” Allegra and Lyric said in unison.

“You are my girls just as much as the four I gave birth to,” Aunt Dinah said, wiping away a tear. “But enough of that. Shall we talk about the house party?”

Aunt Dinah handed each of them a list. “These are the activities which I have decided upon. Please look over them and see if there is anything you might wish to add.”

Allegra perused it carefully, eager for the house party to begin.

“The only thing I think we should add, Aunt Dinah, is a picnic,” Lyric said. “Pippa has always been fond of us holding ones by the lake. If we did so, it would remind me of her, as if she were here at the party with us.”

Her aunt smiled approvingly. “I agree. Of course, the two of you will have to step up and play the pianoforte for our guests. I am hoping to have everyone gather around and sing together as one of you play.”

Allegra and Lyric both played very well, but nothing like Georgie and Mirella did. Since both of them would be missing from the party, she knew she and her twin would need to perform for their guests, most likely on more than one occasion.

Her twin laughed. “If that is the case, I will abandon my gardening today in favor of practicing.” She looked to Allegra. “Will you also be practicing?”

She grinned. “I’d better. At least Mirella won’t be here to show all of us up.” She looked to her aunt. “Do any of the other ladies attending play the pianoforte or another musical instrument?”

“I have no idea, Allegra, but I expect they do. Every well-bred lady takes musical lessons of some sort.”

“Who is coming to the house party?” Lyric asked. “I have been curious about our guests.”

“I can provide you their names. Even tell you a bit about them. But I believe you should form your own opinions of our guests instead of having preconceived notions,” Aunt Dinah explained. “All I will say is that all five men are bachelors, well known to the ton. A few are more outgoing than others, and one is a bit shy. One among this group is a widower, and he has a two-year-old daughter. That is all you will get out of me regarding these gentlemen.”

“Then at last tell us a bit about the ladies,” Allegra pressed. “Lyric and I have always had the advantage of having our four cousins as our constant companions, and they have been our closest friends. One of the reasons I looked forward to making my come-out—and now this party—is to be able to meet other ladies our same age, besides the gentlemen who will attend.”

“I will tell you a bit about our three female guests, then,” her aunt said. “Lady Lida and Miss Markle are cousins who were brought up together. They come from Somerset, and Lord and Lady Crowell, Lady Lida’s parents, will be here to chaperone them. Lady Lida made her come-out the previous Season, while Miss Markle made hers this past spring.”

Allegra wondered why this Lady Lida was not betrothed after two Seasons. Although not every girl made a match by the end of her come-out Season, a majority did by their second. She was extremely curious about Lady Lida and also looked forward to meeting Miss Markle, the cousin.

“The third lady attending is Miss Bancroft. She became friends with Georgie during this Season. I am certain Georgie will continue to pursue her friendship with Miss Bancroft. And her aunt, another Miss Bancroft, will be her chaperone.”

If her cousin liked Miss Bancroft, that was good enough for Allegra. Georgie was both kind and level-headed. She must have seen something special in Miss Bancroft since she had made friends with her.

“If that is all, Aunt Dinah, I think I will go to the music room to begin my practice,” Lyric said. Looking to Allegra, she said, “Unless you would rather practice there.”

“No, go ahead. I will practice in the drawing room.”

They left Aunt Dinah’s sitting room, discussing which pieces they would practice, so that neither of them would play the same number for their guests.

“We should prepare at least three each,” Lyric suggested. “We will be retiring to the drawing room after dinner each evening. While I know Aunt Dinah has us playing games and cards and even dancing some, there will still be plenty of time for music to be played for our guests.”

“You’re right,” Allegra agreed. “We should each prepare five different pieces. I would rather be overprepared than caught unprepared.”

She went to the music room with Lyric, combing through the sheet music, each one of them selecting the composers they enjoyed most.

Allegra retreated to the drawing room, where she practiced for a good two hours. She usually practiced a couple of times a week, unlike Georgie and Mirella, who practiced daily. She chuckled, thinking even if she practiced as much as those two, neither she nor Lyric would ever attain their level of skill.

Satisfied with the progress she had made, Allegra took the sheet music back to the music room.

“I am exhausted,” Lyric said. “I do not see how Mirella and Georgie stay at it for so long. I think I would like to stretch my legs. Would you care to take a walk with me?”

“I would indeed,” she said, linking her arm through her sister’s as they left the house.

As they strolled through the gardens, she couldn’t help but think that after tomorrow, Shadowcrest would be full of guests.

And perhaps she and her twin might be fortunate enough to find love.

 

 

CHAPTER 2

 

Sterling had no idea why he had been invited to a house party hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Seaton. He had never even met the pair, who had been the talk of last Season. The duchess, formerly Mrs. Josiah Grant, had shocked Polite Society after her husband’s death. Not only had Mr. Grant left the shipping empire to his widow, but she actually also ran it herself. When she married the duke, many a tongue had wagged, especially since Seaton’s family owned Strong Shipping Lines, chief competitor to Mrs. Grant’s Neptune Shipping.

While the ton assumed the duke wed the widow merely to get his hands on her company, Seaton had shocked London by deliberately allowing his bride to keep her business in the marriage settlements. According to gossip, the ducal heir would inherit Strong Shipping, while any other children—male or female—would own Neptune Shipping.

Even though Sterling didn’t know the couple personally, he was eager to speak to both. People who refused to play by the rules of Polite Society interested him, especially since he took delight in breaking as many as possible. Still, house parties were notorious for producing multiple betrothals between couples. The Seatons hosted this party in honor of the duke’s cousins, twin girls who had yet to make their come-outs.

One of the duke’s sisters, had, though. Sterling had thought Lady Georgina Strong a diamond of the first water. She was beautiful, calm, and intelligent. They had danced once, but she only had eyes for the scarred Marquess of Edgethorne. He didn’t really know the former officer, but he had seen Edgethorne at events and heard the vicious gossip about him. The fact that Georgina Strong had ignored it and followed her heart intrigued him even more about these Strongs. Perhaps Lord and Lady Edgethorne might be in attendance at the house party and would agree to spend some time with him.

He only came today because one simply did not turn down the invitation issued by a duke. From what he gathered, however, even though the Seatons were the nominal hosts, it was the former Dowager Duchess of Seaton who had planned the activities. She was as much a beauty as her daughter had been, and Sterling had seen the wedding announcement in the newspapers of her recent marriage. To his shock, the former duchess had wed a sea captain.

Yes, the Strongs of Shadowcrest were a most unusual lot. Though Sterling had no desire to make a match with either of the Strong girls, he thought this house party would prove to be quite entertaining.

He glanced to his companion in the carriage. Silas Chase, Viscount Blankenship, had been a boon companion of his for a few years. Though the viscount was a Cambridge man and Sterling an Oxford one, they had been cut from the same cloth. When Blankenship arrived in town after finishing his university years, he had been as wild as they came and a perfect friend for Sterling. They had cut quite a swath through London society, gambling and rutting, until Blankenship had a sudden change of heart.

This past Season, his friend had cut ties with Sterling and their crowd of rakes. Instead, he had entered the Season with his eye on the Marriage Mart. At one point, Sterling thought Blankenship might have made a match with Lady Georgina, but it proved not to be the case. He wondered if the viscount would pursue another Strong female at this house party. His gut told him it was likely the event would end with a betrothal announcement regarding his former friend.

“I am surprised you wished to share a carriage with me,” Sterling said. “You haven’t wanted a thing to do with me in months.”

“When I heard you were invited to Shadowcrest, I thought I might try and make amends with you, Carroll. I am afraid I did not do a good thing, cutting you from my life so abruptly. For that, I apologize.”

“Apology accepted,” he said breezily. “I am not one to hold grudges, Blankenship. What happened to you?”

Sadness filled the viscount’s eyes. “My uncle died. It left me truly on my own. I decided it was time I began acting my age and assuming the responsibilities I should have long ago.”

“Does that include finding a wife?” Sterling pressed.

“Yes, it does. I am eager to wed and have children. The Season did not play out quite as I expected. This house party will give me an opportunity to get to know a few young ladies in a better setting. Hopefully, my future viscountess will be amongst those in attendance.”

“You already lost one Strong female,” he said, seeing if he would get a rise out of his former friend. “Let’s hope you can hang on to one here.”

Blankenship didn’t take the bait. “I had thought to make a match with Lady Georgina Strong,” he admitted. “But I was delighted when Edgethorne stole her heart. You see, we were the closest of friends at Eton and Cambridge and even shared rooms while at university. Edgethorne is the brother I never had.” He smiled. “We were randy as they came and had many good times together before he left for the war. I am only glad that he is home again and has the love of a good woman.”

He hadn’t known the viscount and marquess were longtime friends.

“I will leave the matchmaking to others,” he said airily. “I hope you find what you are looking for, Blankenship. As for me, I do not plan to wed until I absolutely have to.”

They fell silent again. At least the air between them had been cleared. He didn’t think Blankenship wished him ill. His friend had simply moved on to another chapter in his life, one which did not interest Sterling in the slightest. He had many more years of adventures to write in the story of his life before he thought of settling down.

As for him, he would be polite and charming to the other guests, male and female. He doubted any of the young misses invited would be suitable bed partners, but there were always their chaperones. When the house party ended, he would proudly stand with his freedom intact and head back to town.

Their carriage turned onto a lane and about five minutes later, they reached the main house itself. As it came to a halt, he noticed neither the duke nor duchess were present to greet their guests. The beautiful dowager duchess was present, though, along with two other women who resembled one another. They were of a similar height, though the one with sable hair was slightly taller than the woman with russet hair. They favored one another closely in the face, but the shorter one was small everywhere, including her breasts and waist.

It was the dark-haired one who drew Sterling’s attention now.

She had curves in all the right places and a ready smile. He had always been attracted to a woman with curves. Being that she stood with the dowager duchess, she had to be either Allegra or Lyric Strong. He knew enough not to get caught in an embrace with an innocent, but Sterling definitely planned upon kissing her. At a house party, he would have plenty of opportunities to pull this Miss Strong into some nook or cranny and at least enjoy the taste of her.

Glancing to Blankenship, he saw the viscount also looked out the window, his gaze fixated on the other Strong girl. He liked Blankenship and the good times they had spent together. If he were interested in the russet-haired woman, then Sterling would keep his hands off her as a courtesy.

The vehicle rolled to a halt, and a footman quickly placed stairs down, opening the carriage door for them. He allowed Blankenship to descend first and then followed.

“Lord Blankenship,” the dowager duchess said, giving the viscount a warm smile. “How good it is to see you again soon. Thank you again for coming to the wedding.”

“Thank you for having me, Your Grace,” Blankenship replied. “It did my heart good to see my friend and Lady Georgina marry. Are they still honeymooning in Scotland?”

“They are. And I am Mrs. Andrews now, my lord.” She looked to Sterling. “Good afternoon, Lord Carroll. Thank you for accepting our invitation.”

He greeted the former duchess. “I am honored to visit Shadowcrest,” he said smoothly, finding it a shame that this woman had recently wed because she was still quite the beauty. He would have enjoyed a romp in bed with her.

“May I introduce you to my nieces?” she asked. Turning, she indicated one. “This is Miss Lyric Strong. And Miss Allegra Strong.”

So, the one he was attracted to was Allegra. Because of that, Sterling deliberately greeted the other one first.

“It is lovely to make your acquaintance, Miss Strong,” he said, taking her hand and kissing it. Then turning, he added, “And you, as well, Miss Strong.”

When he took her offered hand, though, something struck him. An awareness rippled through him as she looked at him with those large, cornflower eyes.

“I am happy to make your acquaintance, Lord Carroll,” she said, her voice low and musical, causing desire to shoot through him. “But please, address me as Miss Allegra. Aunt Dinah said it would be too complicated for Lyric and me to both be Miss Strong.”

He still held her hand. She tugged on it, but he wasn’t ready to release it yet.

“Miss Allegra,” he repeated, bending and kissing her fingers a second time.

When he looked at her, he saw how flushed her cheeks had grown, making her even more attractive.

“I am partial to this hand, my lord,” she said lightly, tugging again, causing him to release it.

“You may have it back. For now,” he flirted, already wanting to kiss her.

“Come inside,” Mrs. Andrews told them. “Miss Forrester will see you to your rooms. Hot water is already being sent up now for you to freshen up after your journey from town. Once you are settled, make your way to the drawing room. You are the last to arrive, gentlemen. It is almost teatime. You can visit with the other guests there.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Andrews,” Blankenship said. “Come along, Carroll.”

They went inside the house, and while he saw Miss Lyric escorting Blankenship up the stairs to a bedchamber, Miss Allegra motioned to a footman and asked that he take Lord Carroll upstairs to his guestroom. The servant did so. Already, his trunk had been placed in his room while he spoke with his hostess, and his valet awaited him, unpacking it. He untied his cravat and stripped off his coat, waistcoat, and shirt.

“Have fresh ones ready once I have washed,” he instructed.

Sterling did so, glad to have new clothes after the heat of the carriage. He then redressed with his valet’s help. When he stepped into the corridor, he saw Blankenship had done the same, emerging from the bedchamber across from him.

A waiting footman said, “I will escort you to the drawing room, my lords.”

The two lords followed the servant. When they entered the room, his eyes swept over the women present. He had met Lady Lida and Miss Markle but had no idea who the plain woman was who spoke with them. Miss Lyric was speaking to Lord Lamkin and Lord Tillings, two men he knew from White’s.

Miss Allegra was engaged in conversation with Lord Motley. The earl was a widower, about two years Sterling’s senior. Miss Allegra laughed at something Motley said.

And Sterling didn’t like that one whit.

He moved in the general direction of everyone, but his goal was to separate Allegra Strong from Lord Motley, the sooner the better.

Because he was reacting to this woman in a manner he never had before—and Sterling was determined to figure out why.

***

Allegra sensed Lord Carroll’s presence before she saw him. She kept her attention focused on Lord Motley, nodding encouragingly so he would continue with the story he told her.

But her skin prickled and her breath quickened as she saw Lord Carroll cross the room from the corner of her eye.

“Good afternoon,” the earl said, joining them.

Coolly, she said, “Have you met Lord Motley, Lord Carroll?”

“It was quite a while ago.” Carroll offered Motley his hand, and the two men shook, though Allegra noticed Motley’s frown and wondered why the earl would disapprove of Lord Carroll.

Turning, she wanted to introduce Lord Motley to Lord Blankenship, only to see the viscount had approached Lyric and Miss Bancroft.

“You will have to wait a moment to make Lord Blankenship’s acquaintance, Lord Motley,” she said to the earl.

“I know of him,” Lord Motley said. “Blankenship was at Eton when I was, but he was several years behind me. I believe I read in the newspapers where he lost his uncle before this past Season started.”

Aunt Dinah claimed everyone’s attention, making the necessary introductions, and then said, “We are so happy to have you here with us at Shadowcrest for this party.”

Just then, James and Sophie entered, Sophie moving slowly because of the size of her belly.

“And here are your true hosts, the Duke and Duchess of Seaton,” Aunt Dinah proclaimed.

A shuffle began, with guests moving in small groups to meet their hosts and the others present. Once several teacarts were rolled in, Sophie asked if they would all find a seat. While the drawing room easily seated everyone present, they could not all sit together, so people began moving to the smaller seating groups scattered about the room. Aunt Dinah had already told her nieces when this situation occurred to make certain they split up so that there would be someone from Shadowcrest to pour out within each group.

Allegra moved to her right and found Lady Lida, her mother, Lord Motley, and Lord Carroll joining her. She didn’t quite know how he did it, but Lord Carroll maneuvered everyone into sitting so that the two of them wound up together on a settee.

“Oh, these sandwiches look delicious,” Lady Crowell exclaimed. “And these teacakes! I cannot wait to sample them, as well.”

She poured out, giving Lord Carroll his serving last and then filling her own cup. By now, Lady Lida and her mother were discussing gardening with Lord Motley, leaving her to entertain Lord Carroll.

She swallowed, her insides racing. Never had her heart beat quite so fast.

“You did not make your come-out this Season,” the earl observed. “If you had, I would have noticed you.”

“I did not. Plans changed. There were to be five of us from this household doing so—and only one actually did.”

Curiosity filled his face. “What happened?”

“My cousin Pippa and our neighbor, the new Viscount Hopewell, fell in love even before the Season began. Lord Hopewell is a former sea captain, and Pippa has always had an adventurous spirit. Their honeymoon is one which is taking them around the globe.”

“How interesting,” Lord Carroll said, sipping his tea, his gaze burning into her, making her cheeks heat.

“Pippa and my cousin Georgie are twins. Georgie did make her come-out as planned.”

“And wed Lord Edgethorne. I think the entire ton witnessed them falling in love.”

Allegra nodded. “Their honeymoon has taken them to one of Edgethorne’s properties in Scotland. As for my cousin Mirella, she broke her forearm and elbow just before the Season began. If anyone enjoys dancing more than Mirella, I have yet to meet them. Since the doctor forbid my cousin to dance because the plaster would have her off-balance, she has chosen to make her come-out next spring. She, my youngest cousin Effie, and Aunt Matty are now touring the Lake District.”

“It is a large family. Full of females,” the earl noted.

“Well, there is Seaton,” she pointed out. “He is head of our family.”

“I find I enjoy the company of women,” he said, his voice warm and seductive, despite them being in a drawing room full of others. “I hope you and I will be able to enjoy one another’s company during this house party, Miss Allegra.”

Now she understood why Lord Motley had been cool to this man. From his elegant dress and smooth talking, she realized that Lord Carroll was a rake. Why Aunt Dinah had invited such a rogue to this house party puzzled her, though. Yes, she and Lyric were eager to meet all kinds of people, but at the same time, it was understood that this house party would give them the advantage of getting to know a small group rather quickly. Rakes weren’t known for committing to any woman, much less offering marriage.

Allegra decided to call him out and be done with him.

“Have you always been a rake, my lord?” she asked softly, not wishing for the others to hear their conversation.

His eyes widened in surprise, but he recovered quickly. “Have you always been so bold in speaking your mind, Miss Allegra?” He paused. “Especially when speaking to a rake such as myself?

“I am outgoing,” she said. “A bit impulsive at times. But not so careless as to want to be bedded by the likes of you underneath Shadowcrest’s roof.”

With that, Allegra turned to the others present, knowing she had stunned the earl into silence. “Tell me more about your daughter, Lord Motley. I believe you said her name is Viola?”

She knew the girl’s name, of course, because she had spent time in the nursery showing her various dolls the Strong girls had played with during their own years there. But she knew allowing Lord Motley to talk of his daughter would be a new topic of discussion and would easily draw in the others in their grouping.

Except for Lord Carroll. A rogue wouldn’t be one to talk of children. By intentionally introducing this line of conversation, she deliberately excluded the earl.

And she knew that he knew exactly what she did.

“Yes,” the earl said with enthusiasm. “And I cannot thank His and Her Grace enough for allowing me to bring Viola and her nursery governess with me to Kent. My daughter has just turned two and is quite attached to me.”

Allegra continued to converse with Lord Motley, Lady Crowell, and Lady Lida. She made no effort to draw Lord Carroll into the conversation once they began talking of the various activities in the coming days, and he made no attempt to enter it. She had already crossed the rogue off her list of potential suitors—and would warn Lyric and the other ladies present of the wolf in their midst.

But first, she would confront Aunt Dinah about her reasons for asking such a man to Shadowcrest.