Impassioned by Darcy Burke

Chapter 6

Lucien walked up the familiar stairs to Evie’s drawing room, his mind churning. She was seated in her favorite chair near the hearth with a newspaper in her hand.

Gifting him with one of her glorious smiles, Evie never failed to dazzle him. She was one of the most beautiful women he’d ever known, and she possessed a rare ability to put anyone at ease. It was her skill for listening, he thought, something he valued very much.

“Good afternoon, Lucien. Come sit.” She gestured with the newspaper to the chair facing hers as if it wasn’t where he sat whenever he visited, which was often. After all, she only lived a short walk away, and they usually had Phoenix Club business to discuss. Plus, they were friends and had been for years.

She narrowed her eyes at him briefly. “You’ve a scheme in your head.”

Lucien laughed as he settled himself in his chair. “You know me too well. I’ve a particularly sensitive situation to manage, and I need your help.”

“I am always eager to assist in your endeavors.” She set her newspaper on a small table next to her chair. “Who is in need this time?”

“My brother. And since you are already offering support to his wife, you are perfectly positioned.”

Evie rested her elbow on the arm of her chair. “If this scheme of yours involves bringing them together, I will gladly help. I like Sabrina very much.”

“I do too. I think she and my brother could actually be happy if they can get past themselves.”

“What do you mean? I think I know, but I’d like to hear your opinion on the matter.”

“It sounds as if their marriage is a disaster on all fronts, including in the bedchamber.”

Surprise flickered in Evie’s blue gaze. “Con confided this to you?”

“Reluctantly.” Lucien let out a short laugh. “He is clearly desperate since he came to me for help. I think he would prefer to waltz across hot coals on his way to Almack’s.”

Evie’s shoulders twitched as a smile drifted across her full lips. “Desperate indeed. Sabrina was also rather anxious for help. She’s anxious about everything, really.”

“She seems to be, and it sounds as if neither she nor Con can do what they must to meet each other in the middle. She’s too apprehensive, and her fear has caused him to also be apprehensive. It’s a bloody mess.”

“I’ve been encouraging her to overcome her anxiety, particularly about sex.” She clucked her tongue. “The poor thing has never had an orgasm.”

Lucien shook his head. “Oh, Con.”

“Don’t blame him. As you said, it’s a mess and neither of them is at fault.”

“Or they both are.”

She pursed her lips. “How about we don’t assign blame and just help them? Are you going to share your plan? It seems you have one.”

“I do. Con had planned to finally take a mistress, but, as you know, the attempt was foiled.” Lucien had told her about giving Constantine a key to a room in the Phoenix Club to meet with a courtesan. Because she was the manager of the women’s side of the club, Lucien shared just about everything that involved the club with her. “I think spending time with someone who can help him be more commanding would be beneficial to his marriage. I suggested he see someone who can tutor him in seduction—specifically with his nervous, reticent wife. I don’t suppose you can think of anyone who could help?”

The look she gave him could have frozen his balls off. He was glad it didn’t. “I’ve overstepped,” he said quietly. “I know it’s been two years since you left that profession, but I thought you might be able to recommend someone.”

Her brows, pitched in an angry V, did not relax. “As you should know, I completely cut myself off from that life when I left London to reinvent myself. I have not kept in touch with anyone at all, and I can’t reach out to anyone now, not as Mrs. Renshaw.”

Of course she couldn’t, and he damn well should have known better. “My deepest apologies, Evie.”

She exhaled and waved her hand, her features smoothing. Thankfully, she never stayed perturbed with him for long. “Honestly, it’s too bad we can’t lock Sabrina and Con alone together in a room. Naked. Perhaps with some helpful instruments.”

Lucien grinned. “A dildo?”

“Can you imagine?” Her eyes glowed with mirth. “But no, that would be too much.”

“Actually, I don’t think it’s a bad idea—the alone together in a room part anyway. And hopefully they would remove their clothing at some point.” Lucien leaned his head back and stared up at the ceiling a moment. “This could work.” He lowered his head and leveled a stare at Evie. “Sabrina could be the tutor.”

Evie’s eyes rounded, and she immediately shook her head. “That would never work. Sabrina lacks the confidence, let alone the knowledge.”

“You said you’ve been encouraging her, including about sex. Surely you can tell her what she needs to know. This could really help them lower their inhibitions.” Lucien was warming to this stratagem. But first he had to convince Con to meet with the tutor. And Evie had to persuade Sabrina. “I’m not sure I agree that Sabrina lacks the confidence. She only thinks she does. She’s already come to London with the goal of taking Society by storm.”

“I think you’re exaggerating a bit,” Evie said with a wry chuckle. “But you’re right that she possesses a steel I don’t think she’s fully aware of—or used to. This could give them both the push they need to, as you say, meet in the middle.” She frowned suddenly. “Except this is a major deception. Con would need to betray his wife, and Sabrina would deceive her husband.”

He leaned forward slightly. “I don’t agree. It’s a minor deception for a much greater good—the benefit of their marriage. I fear that without some assistance, they are doomed to fail.”

“Do you really think Con would do it?”

“I do, with a little more persuasion. I mentioned it yesterday, and he said he’d consider it. Do you think you can get Sabrina to agree?”

Evie blew out a breath. “I don’t know her that well yet, but she’s committed to making drastic changes to achieve what she wants. And what she wants most is a child.”

“Then they need to get into bed.”

“Perhaps this scenario will allow them to be more comfortable. Sabrina can pretend to be someone else and that could give her the confidence she needs, that she doesn’t realize she already has.”

“And Con can practice what he needs to do without the stress of performing in front of his anxious wife. He will also gain the confidence he needs to take charge and give them both what they want.”

They fell silent for a few moments, both turning their heads toward the hearth as if they could divine answers and direction from the burning coals. Finally, Evie spoke. “This will take some coordination. Where do you envision this taking place?”

“The Phoenix Club’s second floor.” There were several bedchambers at the club, which Lucien had installed in case anyone needed a place to sleep. Or for something else. With the men and women mingling together on Tuesdays, Lucien had thought it prudent to have private spaces, even if the majority of members weren’t aware they existed. Lucien and Evie—as well as the membership committee—knew they were there, and so far they’d proven helpful.

Evie nodded. “Of course. It’s almost as if you knew they would provide a benefit.” She winked at him, and he laughed softly. “Con will need to be blindfolded so he can’t see that the tutor is Sabrina.”

“She should also wear a mask, in case the blindfold slips.”

“And the room must be as dark as possible—just a small, single candle.”

Lucien arched a brow at his friend and, really, partner, at least in matters such as this. “It sounds as if we’re moving forward with this stratagem?”

“It does seem as though it could work. If we can persuade them both to participate.”

Lucien inhaled as he straightened his spine against the back of the chair. “I have the utmost faith in our abilities. We’re helping them achieve what they both desire.”

She sent him a sly look that would once have driven him to sweep her into his arms. “It’s your most daring act of assistance yet.”

“It’s my brother,” he said simply. “I would do anything for him.”

Her features softened. “That’s the Lucien I know. You persuaded me to give up the only life I’ve ever known and become someone completely different. This will be no trouble for you. You’ve the best heart.”

“Shh. That’s best kept between us. Now, let us plot our brilliance as we drive Lord and Lady Aldington together.”

“I think this calls for wine.” Evie stood and moved toward a cabinet that held a variety of liquor.

“That new port, if you have any left.” Lucien did love his brother, and he would see him happy. Con deserved nothing less.

There was a short line of coaches on North Audley Street, but Sabrina didn’t mind waiting since this was her first foray into Society this season. She gently smoothed her hand over the cobalt gauze covering the silk of the same color, giddy with the beauty of her new gown. This was not a garment she would have chosen—the color was too vivid, the style too daring. The back sloped to a vee at the middle of her spine, exposing a generous expanse of flesh. She was glad for the embroidered wrap she’d brought for the coach ride, particularly since the sleeves didn’t start until mid-shoulder.

While her costume wasn’t what she typically wore, she had to admit it gave her a confidence she sorely needed in order to face tonight’s rout. In it, she could believe that she was truly a self-assured countess worthy of respect. That a garment could ease her anxiety was astonishing. It was more than that, however. She just felt more prepared—more ready—to face Society now than she had two years earlier when she’d become betrothed to Aldington.

He hadn’t arrived home from Westminster before she’d left, and she couldn’t help but feel disappointed. He’d been polite the past few days—slightly warmer than usual but still distant, which was making it difficult to do as Evie had suggested. How could she get to know a man who kept a very high wall around him and let no one inside?

He hadn’t come to her bedchamber since Saturday, when she’d advised him to wait until his hand was healed. Presumably, it was still troubling him. Only she wasn’t sure she believed it was his hand, not when his behavior continued to reflect a keen lack of interest. She should have expected that nothing would change by her simply inviting him to visit her. It’s not as if he could suddenly decide he was attracted to her. Perhaps this gown would help. If he even saw her in it.

She’d kept busy reacquainting herself with managing the London household. The servants were glad to have her in residence, and she’d spent time working with her new maid. Charity was turning out to be a lovely replacement, for which Sabrina was grateful. In particular, Charity possessed a magnificent talent for styling hair. Sabrina touched the back of her head where jeweled combs would sparkle beneath the candlelight once she was inside.

Aside from keeping busy with the household, Sabrina had studied the book Evie had given her. She had so many questions and though she would see Evie tonight, she wouldn’t discuss such matters at a rout. Hopefully, they would arrange to meet soon.

In all honesty, she couldn’t regret Aldington not visiting her the past few nights, not when she’d been able to do what Evie had advised and learn her own body. Sabrina was now well-acquainted with the parts of her that enjoyed attention and the joy and satisfaction that resulted.

Her cheeks grew warm in the dark solitude of the coach, and a brief pang of need pulsed between her legs. Had she become a wanton? Would her husband think her one? That depended on if he ever came to her bed. She feared she was going to have to assert herself again, and then he most certainly would think her utterly brazen.

No, what she feared was not finding the same pleasure with her husband that she’d found on her own. She realized she wanted that—pleasure with Aldington. She’d come here wanting a child but now she hoped for something more. Something that seemed impossible, given her husband’s indifference.

The door of the coach opened, and she stepped down from the vehicle with the groom’s assistance. Clearing her mind to prepare for the coming onslaught of people and noise, she made her way up to the open door.

Sounds of laughter and glass clinking carried down into the wide entry hall. A footman took her wrap, and she followed the other guests up the stairs to the drawing room. The host and hostess stood at the top of the stairs, greeting people as they arrived.

Sabrina had met them before and particularly admired Lady Kipley. She was more reserved, like Sabrina, but was married to a gregarious baronet whose laughter filled every room he was in and who seemed to possess no fear when it came to commanding attention with a boisterous anecdote.

A fine sheen of sweat dappled Sir Cecil’s wide brow as he welcomed Sabrina. “Lady Aldington, what a pleasure to see you here this evening. Did you just arrive in London?”

“A few days ago, yes,” she answered.

“I told you that, dear,” Lady Kipley playfully admonished him.

He laughed jubilantly. “You know I can’t remember such things. Even about your friends.” He lowered his voice, which Sabrina found surprising, and leaned toward Sabrina. “She counts you in that select group, so be sure to preen about it, though no one will know.” He grinned, then winked at his wife, who shook her head with a warm smile.

Sabrina moved to Lady Kipley, who took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. “It’s true. I’m so glad you’ve come to town. We need more people like us.”

A look of confusion must have passed over Sabrina’s face, for Lady Kipley added, “Those who are content to leave the spotlight for someone else.” She flicked a glance toward her husband, who was now greeting the next guest.

“Yes, that is certainly me,” Sabrina said. Though she was doing her best to at least step out of the shadows. The fact that she’d come on her own was something she would never have done before. Tonight would be the test to see if the courage she’d shown with Aldington would persevere.

Or wilt under the pressure of Society.

After promising to visit with Lady Kipley later, Sabrina made her way into the crowded drawing room. How she wished she wasn’t alone. Although she doubted her husband’s presence would have made her feel any less overwhelmed. In fact, it might have made her more nervous.

So why was she here?

Because this was part of her renaissance. Evie had adopted that word to describe what she’d originally called Sabrina’s transformation. Sabrina rather liked the sound of having a renaissance.

Suddenly Evie was coming toward her, and much of the tension left Sabrina’s shoulders. She exhaled and smiled, glad to see her new friend.

“Sabrina, you look absolutely stunning. I knew this color would be perfect for you, and I’m so glad Madame Dubois was able to complete the gown so quickly. It’s an excellent choice for your first event. What did Aldington say?”

Sabrina continued to peruse the room, recognizing some people but not recognizing many more. While she’d spent most of last Season in London, she’d maybe gone to one event each week, usually a large ball where she could get lost among the throng. Her favorite places were corners, either in the ballroom or a quiet sitting room. She also quite enjoyed the retiring room.

However, she could not undergo a renaissance in the corner.

“Sabrina?” Evie prompted, reminding Sabrina she’d asked a question.

“Aldington was not at home.”

“How disappointing,” Evie murmured. “How have things been progressing?”

Sabrina pivoted toward her friend and kept her voice soft. “They have not. I have done what you, ah, recommended—for myself. And that has been most pleasant.” Her cheeks burned, and she couldn’t help but avert her gaze.

“Excellent. Nothing from the earl, however?”

“Not as of yet.”

“Don’t be discouraged. We’ve only just begun. I do wish he was here tonight.” Evie looked about the drawing room. “You must come visit me tomorrow so we can strategize.”

“I would like that very much, thank you.” Sabrina had no idea what to do next. The concept of seduction wasn’t just foreign, it was wholly intimidating.

Two young women came toward them. Sabrina knew one—it was her sister-in-law, Cassandra, who was marvelously gowned in peach silk—but did not recognize the other.

“Sabrina!” Cassandra greeted her. Of all the people in her husband’s family, his younger sister was by far the loveliest. She was also the only one Sabrina felt truly comfortable with. Although after her meeting with Lucien the other day, she’d changed her opinion of him.

Sabrina clasped her sister-in-law’s hands. “Good evening, Cassandra. You look magnificent. How is your Season? You must have a trail of suitors following you about.”

Cassandra laughed without humor. “Actually, no. I am beginning to think my father is just too fearsome. Allow me to introduce my new companion, Miss Prudence Lancaster. Pru is the best sort, and I am so fortunate her previous employer married quickly so that she could become my companion instead.” She glanced toward her companion. “Pru, allow me to present Lady Aldington.”

Golden-haired and pale-eyed, Miss Lancaster had a slightly ethereal quality to her. Her slender frame and alabaster complexion likely contributed to that. “I’m pleased to make your acquaintance, my lady.” Miss Lancaster made an elegant curtsey.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Lancaster. I am so glad Cassandra has a companion of a similar age. She is hopelessly trapped with men in her family.”

“I was until you came along,” Cassandra said. “Though I’d hoped you would spend more time in London.” She uttered the last with a wistful tone that carried no admonition. Still, Sabrina felt a pang of guilt. Cassandra had been ecstatic when her brother had wed, especially to someone so close to her in age. Sabrina was only a year older.

“I’m sorry,” Sabrina murmured, looking into Cassandra’s sherry-colored eyes. While Cassandra shared the same gender as Sabrina, that was about all they shared in common. Cassandra possessed a confidence and magnetism, like her brother Lucien, that had initially intimidated Sabrina. “I’m going to be more involved in this Season, so you must tell me how I can help you with your debut. Is your aunt still sponsoring you?”

“For what it’s worth.” Cassandra snorted softly. “You know how she is.”

Yes, Sabrina did know. Flighty and unreliable.

“Perhaps I should take over as your sponsor,” Sabrina mused aloud, surprising herself. She never would have had the thought before, let alone voiced it.

Cassandra’s eyes lit. “That would be wonderful! If my father would allow it.” She pressed her lips together and glanced toward Prudence, who only lifted a shoulder in response.

“I bet he can be persuaded,” Evie said. “Speak with your brothers and gain their support.”

Sabrina warmed to this idea. “Yes, we’ll get Aldington to champion this cause, and the duke will have no quarrel with it. He grants Aldington everything.”

Cassandra’s brow arched. “You think so?”

Didn’t he? It seemed that way to Sabrina. Aldington was the favorite son while Lucien was a dissolute scoundrel and Cassandra was somewhat ignored. That twinge of guilt intensified.

“Perhaps my perspective is not a very good one,” Sabrina admitted.

“You aren’t entirely wrong—Father will listen to Con more than he’ll pay any heed to me or Lu.”

“Then I will speak with Aldington about this as soon as possible,” Sabrina said, even as she wondered what her husband would say—both about her initiative as well as acting as his sister’s chaperone. She was certainly above reproach and would be far more engaged than their aunt.

Evie’s eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as she glanced toward Sabrina. “What an excellent solution for everyone.” Evidently, she thought this might help Sabrina’s cause with Aldington—or so it seemed. Sabrina would find out for sure when she spoke with Evie in a more private setting tomorrow.

Sabrina smiled at Miss Lancaster. “Have you been with Cassandra long?”

“Just a few days.”

“She was previously companion to Miss Wingate—Overton’s ward. But they are now on their way to Gretna Green. If I didn’t adore Fiona so much, the romanticism of it would make me nauseated with envy.” Cassandra let out an exaggerated sigh. “Honestly, I’m envious anyway. They are so very much in love.”

Sabrina felt a flash of envy too. She’d had no expectations for her marriage but was coming to realize that perhaps she had nurtured a bit of hope for…something.

“They are also the most popular piece of gossip,” Evie noted. “Some find their pairing scandalous, but since his grandmother has not only given her blessing but taken credit for the match, they are keeping their opinions quiet.”

Cassandra’s gaze darkened. “Still, you hear about them. Some people should mind their own business. Or better yet, go away. They won’t be missed.”

“Why the angry face, sister?” Lucien approached them, and he was not alone. Two gentlemen accompanied him, but Sabrina wasn’t sure she’d met either of them.

“Just grumbling about busybodies. Good evening, Lu.” Turning from her brother, Cassandra dipped a brief curtsey to the black-haired rogue—yes, rogue was the best description for his dashing good looks with piercing blue eyes and a slightly crooked nose—and then to the attractive almond-skinned gentleman with a captivating coffee-colored gaze flecked with gold. “Lord Wexford, Mr. MacNair.”

“Good evening, Lady Cassandra.” The rogue’s Irish brogue lilted over them like a warm wool blanket. He bowed toward Sabrina. “You must be Lady Aldington. It is my distinct honor to make your acquaintance, my lady.”

It was hard not to feel flattered by his charming language and the utterly beguiling twinkle in his eye. She curtsied. “Good evening, Lord Wexford. I’m pleased to meet you.”

“Sabrina, allow me to also present Mr. Dougal MacNair. His father is the Earl of Stirling.”

MacNair bowed just as elegantly as Wexford, but he made the addition of taking her hand. “Your beauty far exceeds your reputation, my lady. Lucien’s brother is a fortunate man.” He flashed a smile so bright and infectious that Sabrina couldn’t help but smile in return.

“You are too kind, Mr. MacNair,” she murmured as he released her hand.

Cassandra turned to her brother, touching his sleeve. “Lu, you and Con—mostly Con—are going to persuade Father that Sabrina should take over duties as my sponsor.”

“Entirely Con,” Lucien clarified benignly. “After my success in persuading him to hire Miss Lancaster, I’d best not push my luck. This is a brilliant idea and I wholly endorse it.” He looked to Sabrina. “Are you up to the challenge?”

“Of course she is,” Evie answered with a quick certainty. “She’s more than capable of chaperoning the Season’s brightest jewel.” Which would put Sabrina in the center of attention. While she knew this was at least part of her goal, it now seemed terrifying.

Have confidence, Sabrina.

Lucien smiled at her with enough confidence for himself and Sabrina. “Yes, she is.” His gaze moved over Sabrina’s head toward the doorway. “If it isn’t my brother.”

Sabrina whipped around and silently cursed herself for reacting so quickly. Her heartbeat kicked up, and her insides seemed to float.

Dressed in dark, somber evening wear, Aldington was even more handsome than she’d thought him to be. His tawny hair caressed his forehead as his gaze riveted on her. Though he stood several feet away, she felt his perusal and caught the subtle widening of his eyes. Had she caused offense?

Her anticipation took an anxious turn as he strode toward them. She offered him a tremulous smile as she silently cursed her sudden agitation.

“Good evening,” he said as he arrived at their group. He took a position between Sabrina and MacNair. His gaze kept lingering on Sabrina.

“I’m glad you’re here,” Cassandra said. “I was just telling Lu that I need you both—primarily you—to convince Father that Sabrina should take over as my sponsor. It’s already decided so we just need you to ensure Father approves the change.”

Sabrina marveled at the way she spoke to her brother. She didn’t ask, she asserted. Isn’t that what Sabrina had done with Aldington when she’d arrived in London? She’d laid out her expectations quite plainly. For all the good it had done her.

“I see. I’m just to do your bidding then?” Aldington asked evenly. Sabrina couldn’t tell what he thought of the plan.

“Yes, please.” Cassandra flashed him a smile.

Aldington shook his head. “Fine. If you care about my opinion, it is a very good idea.” He glanced toward Sabrina with a hint of curiosity in his gaze.

“I care,” Sabrina whispered, though she didn’t think he’d been addressing her. “Thank you.”

Surprise replaced the curiosity, and he quickly averted his eyes from hers.

“Cass, let me take you for a spin around the room,” Lucien offered. He looked to his brother. “You should take the countess around. There are likely plenty of people who’d like to speak with her since she’s just arrived in town.”

Looking at Aldington askance, Sabrina caught the brief scowl he sent Lucien. Why was he upset? Was she really that distasteful to him? She glanced down at her new gown and briefly touched the sapphire necklace adorning her throat. This was by far the most sophisticated she’d ever looked. If she couldn’t entice him tonight, she doubted she ever could. But then, perhaps her appearance had nothing to do with his disdain.

She was about to open her mouth and say she was going to the retiring room, but he offered his arm. “Shall we?”

He was only doing this because to refuse would have been humiliating for both of them. Sabrina put her hand on his sleeve with a distinct lack of enthusiasm.

They started a circuit of the room, but he quickly led her into a corner. “My apologies, but I need a word with you before we’re swept up with other people and mindless conversations.” His gaze raked her, provoking a heat she wished she didn’t feel. Now that her body knew how to respond, she felt that heat most profoundly in her sex.

“Why are you like this?” He licked his lower lip, and the simple act intensified the abrupt need within her.

“Like what?”

“Dressed like this, here at this rout, agreeing to be Cassandra’s sponsor.” His gaze met hers. “Who are you?”