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The Journey to Welbourne Manor

Orphaned by the sudden death ofher father, abandoned by her suitor,heiress Emma Lawson now findsherself at the mercy of her greedyuncleand about to be sold intomarriage to the highest bidder!Rather than submit to a match witha man she loathes, Emma decides totravel to Welbourne Manor, home of

her scandalous aunt, Lady Ramsden,even though she knows the pathleads to almost certain ruination! Butthe road to Welbourne is fraught

with surprisesincluding herwayward former beau, RobertMarchwell, who is on a mission of hisown...Chapter One

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And you say shes chaste? LordBainbridges voice burbled in theback of his throat. Behind her, outof her uncles line of vision, thehorrid old baron stroked a gnarled

finger across Emma Lawsonsshoulder blade. Ill not take herunless shes a virgin.

Emma shuddered even as her unclebridled in indignation. By God, thegirl is granddaughter to an earl,gently born and raised, Bainbridge.Uncle George sneered down at the

older man. If you doubt my word,well have the doctor in to prove it.

Now Emma glared at her uncle. Thebaron prodded her again, poking her

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ribs as if she were a market sow hewas testing for plumpness. Shesmacked his hand away. Ill thank

you to keep your hands to yourself,sir. Rounding on her uncle, sheallowed him to see all the hurt and

bewilderment churning inside her.Surely this is a jest, sir? I knowweve had our disagreements, but

you cannot think I would wish to wedthis...him. She gestured helplessly.

Her uncle stiffened. Quiet, Emma.Youll do as youre told.

But I She drew a deep breath.My aunt would never countenancesuch a match.

Who do you think first approached

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me, missy? Lord Bainbridge flashedhis stained teeth at her in a grin.Quite a logical thought, it was. Poorwomans got two chicks of her own toconsider. Launching them intosociety will prove expensive. He

raked his gaze down the front ofher. Itll also prove to be a sighteasier once shes removed a beautylike you from their proximity.

Desperate, Emma grasped at heronly straw of hope. If money is theissue, Uncle, then you know Ill behappy to help! In fourteen months

Ill reach my majority. If only wewait, I could

Enough! Her uncle had gone abrilliant shade of red. Bainbridge

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has an ancient title, a respectableestate and deep pockets. Its a finematch. Youll make it and begrateful. He turned away. Wevedetails to discuss. Go on to yourroom now.

But

Go! In the six months shed livedwith him, Emma had never heardsuch a tone from her mild-mannereduncle. Noit usually fell to his wifeand occasionally to his daughters totorment her. Fighting tears, she

backed away.

Ill have your answer now,Bainbridge, she heard her uncle sayas she reached to pull the door

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closed behind her. Ive need of themoney. If you dont want the chit,Im sure Ill find someone willing toagree to my terms.

Emma froze. Leaving the door

opened a crack, she strained to hearthe barons reply. Oh, Ill have her,he avowed, once were sure shesintact. There was a slight pause andshe could imagine the twistedanticipation on the old mans face.Id heard the rumors about yourtroubles. Whispers of badmanagement and failed investments

are circulating, but no one is quiteconvinced. He gave a rusty cackle.This ought to do it, though. Youmust truly be in a mess, to be in sucha hurry to sell the girl.

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Footsteps sounded in the room andthe door was pushed decisivelyclosed. Shaking, Emma turned away.Her legs gave way and she pressedher spine against the door frame,

sinking slowly to sit on her heels.

How had her life come to this? Notlong ago shed been happy, thepampered daughter of a dotingfather, with a prominent position inlocal society and prospects of a finemarriage. Her eyes closed. Even now,she could not think of Robert

without pain, even though shedendured far worse since hisabandonment.

Her father, though, had been given

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no choice. His heart had failed andhed slipped away inside a week.Roberts heart had failed, too, but inan entirely voluntary manner. Hedchosen the pleasures of Town overher, left her alone and waitingand

look where she had ended. Tearsbegan to flow. Now she was only apoor relation, and her futureit didnot bear thinking about.

A sharp tug on her arm shook herfrom her reverie. Emma? Whateverare you doing, girl? Her auntglanced at the closed door. Is there

someone with your uncle?

Emma looked down at the fingersgripping her tightly, then up at thecrafty look on her aunts face as she

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listened at the doorand somethinginside of her shifted. Robertsdesertion had torn her heart, butthisthis betrayal by the verypeople who were meant to love andprotect herit was turning her soul

to stone. Faith and hope witheredeven as understanding grew. Thepainful truth shone clear at last. Shewas alone in this world. There was noone to help her, to save her. It wasall up to her.

Her aunt looked down. Somethingshe saw in Emmas face gave her

pause.

Its Bainbridge in there, isnt it?Suddenly she stood, dragging Emmawith her. Come along. She hustled

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her to the front parlor and thrusther inside. Her two daughterswatched, incurious, as Emmastumbled over the threshold.

Daphne, Danae, watch your cousin.

Ill be back in a moment. Dont lether out of your sight.

Neither girl answered. They wereclustered around a set ofnewspapers spread on a table. Emmathrew herself on a settee and triedto think. She must find a way out ofthis disastrous match.

Why would the Duke of Manningbother to marry Lady Ramsdennow? Danae asked her sister in adeliberately loud tone. She rustled a

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paper. After hes lived with her soscandalously all these years?

Daphne shrugged. It seems theladys every breath stirs a scandal.They say you could paper all of

Carlton House with the broadsheetsthat have been printed of her. Andnow she leaned in to her sister its rumored that one of her cicisbeiis so distraught at the idea of hermarriage that hes casting off all ofhis mementos in a private auction.And the grand centerpiece... Hervoice lowered to a whisper, but

Emma was scarcely attending. Shewas too absorbed in her own misery.

But Danaes screech nearly startledher out of her seat. No! Upon a fan?

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How?

Never mind, Ill explain later.Daphne glanced at Emma. Do youthink Emma will be invited to thewedding? Danae asked in a loud

whisper. I swear, it will be theevent of the year. They are talkingof it even in the village. And LadyRamsden is her mothers sister.

Of course not, you ninny, Daphnescoffed. Mama would never permitit. She gave a snort. You can besure that she checked to see if

Emma had any contact with hernotorious family before sheconsented to take her in. I heardPapa tell her that all connections hadbeen severed years ago, when

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Emmas mama died.

Its still rather exciting, isnt it?Danae said wistfully.

Its shameful, thats what it is,

Daphne insisted. Catherine Ramsdenis not the sort of woman you claim asa relation, even if she was once acountess. Moreover, WelbourneManor is the most infamous estatein England. It would be the ruinationof any young woman to even set footin the place.

The scornful declaration caughtEmmas attention. She sat up. Hercousins words echoed in her head. Itwould be the ruination of any youngwoman to even set foot in the place.

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fellow a coin. And a little somethingextra to ensure that you never sawme.

Bemused, the laborer handed overhis worn hat. Robert placed it on his

head, pleased to find it too large andhanging low over his forehead. Henodded his thanks and entered theopen door at the mans back.

Eh? Hed found a storeroom andsurprised another chap. This one,swathed in a large apron, wasshelving the supplies as they came in.

Whore you? the clerk demanded.Whatre you doing?

A nice brisk business, thank you,Robert answered affably. Thats a

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fine apron, with nice deep pockets.He tried to wiggle out of his tightlyfitted coat. Will you take this coatin trade, sir? Sewed by the finestLondon tailors. He grimaced. But

youll have to help me out of it.

Hed only just got the apron wrappedaround him and his precious cargostored in one those deep pocketswhen a ruckus sounded outside.

Hey, now! the laborer protested.Thats mine! I made a fair trade forit.

Robert was through the storeroomto the front of the building in aflash. He erupted into a busy generalstore, where several of its patrons

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stared in disapproval of his haste.Smoothly, he stepped behind afabric counter. He snatched off thehat, hefted a bolt of cambric from ashelf and pretended to start insurprise along with the rest of the

room when two large men burstthrough the door behind him. Thepair moved through the storefront,cursorily inspecting the clientelebefore heading out onto the street.

Robert grinned. Rowlands bullieswere proving easier to elude thanhed feared. He slipped back into the

storeroom.

Here now, you cant just come andgo back here, protested the clerk.

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Im off, I promise. Robert grabbeda pair of stacked crates. Might Ihave use of these, though?

The man waved a weary hand andRobert was gone. He kept to the

alleys until he was forced to makehis way back to Maidenheads mainstreet. Keeping the crates raisedcarefully before his face, he madehis way east toward the edge oftown.

A carriage accident outside aposting house delayed him. A crowd

had gathered to cheer the shouting,sparring drivers. With careful steps,Robert worked his way through thehappy spectators. Hed nearlyreached the middle of the crush

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when he felt an ominous tingle at theback of his neck.

He lifted the crates higher andsurreptitiously glanced about. Nosign of Rowlands men. The

coachmens argument had degradedto angry, inventive name-calling andeveryone about him appeared bothinterested and amused. His gazeswept the inn, and suddenly hecaught the gaze of a young womanstanding alone in the yard. She waseyeing him closely, a strangeexpression on her face.

She might have been pretty,beneath the travel dust and underher limp bonnet and creased browncloak, but Robert had no time to

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investigate. He shifted the crates toblock her view of him and resumedhis crawl through the crowd.

She was there when he brokethrough, closer than she had been,

standing at the edge of the cobbled yard. Her hands gripped aportmanteau and a large umbrella, ascowl contorted her smooth browand sent a twinge of panic racing upfrom the base of his spine. Did heknow her? He dared not look closerto find out. He kept his gaze loweredand the crates lifted high, for the

last thing he needed was to berecognized.

Robert quickened his pace. Anotherquick peek as he drew near proved

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that she was still staring avidly in hisdirection. His head down, he movedto the edge of the road and rushedpast.

Hed just inhaled deeply, the better

to expel his relief, when somethingstruck the back of his knee. His legstangled, the crates tilted and theground rushed up at him. He hit thepavement with a painful thud even asthe crates launched into the air.Almost before theyd landed, he wasover and on his feet, cursingRowlands bullies and clutching at his

apron pocket and the object theysought.

But there were no hired villains.Instead he stared, incredulous, at

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the mangled object at his feet. Thechit had tripped him with herumbrella!

Robert Marchwell! He winced ashis name rang out. I knew it was

you!

He looked up, past mud-stained hemsand wrinkled skirts, over armsclenched tight to a slender frameand into the face of the girl who hadgotten him into this mess in thefirst place.

His mouth fell open. Not half a yearpast, Emma Lawson had jolted himawake. Shed stirred him up, madehim painfully aware of his ownemptiness and given him an incentive

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to change. For her sake hedundertaken this insane missionandshed nearly broken his kneecap inreturn.

Emma? His vibrant, golden girl

looked a travel-weary andbedraggled mess. He climbed to hisfeet and clutched her shoulders.Whats happened? Where is youruncle?

Her open and sunny countenance hadgone tight and dispirited. On hisway to debtors prison, I hope, she

said bitterly. She crossed her armsand scowled at him. What are youdoing here? The Season is still inswing. Arent you fearful youll misssomething?

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Robert shifted, suddenly unsure ofhis footing in a multitude of ways.Emma was fixed in his mind as sweetand sure. Her generous and givingnature had struck him powerfully.

Theyd spent an idyllic autumn incompany together and hed foundthat her presence shone a light onhis rakish, fast-paced existence.Hed seen his life for the pitifullyshallow thing it was and in her eyeshed seen what it might be. But hedidnt know the dusty, resentfulEmma in front of him now, and was

unsure how to answer her.

Before his silence stretched toolong, a deep voice sounded nearby, abarked order that stood out from

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the cheerful urging of the crowd.Robert looked up to find one of hispursuers pushing his way toward him.

Oh, damn it all to hell, he cursed.The man gestured and Robert

spotted another one closing fromthe street.

He fumbled in the apron pocket.Emma, tell me quicklywere youmeant to be leaving on one of thosecarriages?

Sudden tears shone in her eyes. No.

Ive no money

Good, he interrupted. Take this,then. He pulled out the thin,precious package, and using her body

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as a shield, tucked it inside hercloak. Theres an inn on the east endof town, the Hoof and Horn. Meetme there, upstairs in room twelve, inan hours time. He clutched herhand and stared into her startled

eyes. God, but he wanted to crushher to him and kiss her senseless.But Rowlands men must not connectthem. Im sorry.

For what?

He shook his head. If they ask, youdont know me.

What are you talking

He gripped her shoulders again andscowled. Watch where you are

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stepping, he said harshly. Move!The men were nearly upon them.Roughly he shoved her aside andsprinted away.

Chapter Two

Stunned, Emma watched RobertMarchwells rapidly disappearingform. He was leaving? She was

stranded, dirty, hungry, alone andpennilessand now had a strangeobject poking her sideand he wasleaving?

Again.

She pushed away from the low wallsurrounding the posting yard.

Disbelief twisted in her gut,

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exposing burning anger underneath.Deliberately she embraced it, as itmade a fine shield against panic anddespair. She straightened hershouldersand was struck betweenthem as two men rushed past.

Out of the way! The words werenearly as rough as the wall she hitonce more. Neither paused orapologized. She stared as they racedoff after Robert with deadly intent.

Now fear was the emotion eruptinginside her. What had Robert got

himself into? She pulled her cloaktight and was poked once more bythe object inside. What had he gother into?

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Furtively Emma glanced around, butno one paid her any attention. Thedrivers had given up their fight andturned to untangling their coaches.Around her the throng had begun todisperse. What she needed was a

moments privacy to examine thismystery object. She picked up herportmanteau, abandoned the ruinedumbrella and eased away with themelting crowd.

Emma found an apothecary shoptucked amidst the rows of tavernsand posting inns lining Maidenheads

main street; it boasted a front linedwith plants and herbs and a tinybench tucked amongst them. Shetook a seat, angled her body towardthe building and pulled out her

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unwanted acquisition.

The package was long, thin andwrapped in linen. Emma tore thecloth away to reveal a fan of aged,polished ivory. Reverently, she

opened it. The pierced ivory wasbeautifully detailed and adornedwith three small vignettes. Shepeered closelyand stilled. Thelovingly painted portraits were ofher mothers sister, Lady CatherineRamsden, who was soon to becomethe Duchess of Manning.

Her gut clenched. Daphnes words,uttered on that fateful day at home,echoed in her head. An auction, shedsaid, and an ardent admirer sellingoff his mementos. Surely there had

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been something about a fan?

But Robert could not be her auntscicisbeohe was not half her age!Emma bit her lip and ran a fingerover a likeness. Lady Catherine was a

beautiful woman, it was notimpossible. She shook her head.Perhaps Robert had merely won thispiece at the auction?

That notion did not sit well either.

A gentleman walked by and tippedhis hat. She nodded and idly waved

the fan. She turned it aroundandgasping, nearly dropped it. This side,too, had three detailed portraits,but they were of a decidedlydifferentthat is to say, risqu

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nature! Emma caught a glimpse oflong, naked limbs and a bounteousbare bosom before she snapped thething shut, her face flaming.

Fumbling, she wrapped the fan up

again, and felt a little more of herfaith in mankind slipping away as shedid. Who would commission such athing? And why, she wondereddarkly, would it be in Robertspossession? Try as she might, shecould not dredge up an innocentanswer, or even one that made aparticle of sense.

Emma stood and strode away againdown the street, her mind awhirl.She knew the stories. Her motherssister had thrown her life away, left

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her husbandan earl, no lessandtheir young son to run away with herlover. The world scorned her as afallen woman, but Emma had heardher parents whispers, had heardbitterness in her serene mothers

voice as she laid at least part of theblame on the earl, using words likecold, distant and inflexible. AndLady Catherine had not, as so manyhad predicted, been abandoned andleft to drift from man to man.Instead shed lived with her dukefor many years, had a family withhim and in the end shed extracted

the best revenge on all of herdetractors; shed lived her life asshe chose, and had been blissfullyhappy doing it.

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Emma had known the story, but ithad always been just dim music inthe background. Shed never felt ittouch her own life. Until her fatherdied and her aunt began to talk ofthe taint in her blood. Until the ugly

afternoon in her fathers study,when her uncle had bartered herfuture away. Then Lady Catherinesexample had risen before her likethe sun, and shed decided to followit. Emma might ruin herself byrunning to her relatives atWelbourne Manor, but shed be livingher life on her own terms.

Her eyes welled. Blissful happinesswas beyond her reach. Her chancehad run off with Robert, fallen alongwith her father. But ruination and a

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place in her relatives fast societyappeared far more comfortable thanlife as Lady Bainbridge. And whetherRobert had meant to treasure thefan or make mischief with it, he wasnot getting it back.

Lady Catherine was finally marryingher duke. Emma could picture herhappiness, but she could also imaginehow the knowledge of an object likethis out in the world might taint it.Well, the thing was in Emmaspossession now. She would take itwith her to Welbourne and offer it

up as a wedding present to LadyCatherine. It might ease the bridesmind and it just might sweetenEmmas own welcome.

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The decision made, her steps grewbrisker. Really, there was no need tomeet up with Robert Marchwell againat all. What could come of it? Only aresurrection of old pain and thebirth of new humiliation. Shed come

this far on her own; it would bewisest to continue on that way.

Her head was convinced of it. Herheart reluctantly agreed. Yet forsome reason her feet were carryingher steadily toward the east end oftown. Almost before she knew it, shefound herself in the dusty foyer of

the Hoof and Horn, asking afterroom twelve. She shifted uneasily asthe innkeeper eyed her with aknowing grin. He led her upstairs,knocked on the door and swung it

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open.

Emma stopped on the threshold andstared. A stunningly beautiful ladygazed back at her, her mouthquirked into a quizzical smile. Well,

hello, she said. Are you thepackage Robert meant for me?

* * *

Robert was late. The last thing hewanted was for Emma to show up atthe Hoof and Horn before him, butRowlands hired men were more

determined this time, and he hadbegun to tire.

A horn blew and traffic scatteredbefore a fast-moving post chaise.

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Quickly, Robert swerved toward it.A burst of speed, a lucky jump, andhe caught hold of the back end.Vainly his pursuers tried to matchspeed with the vehicle. Robertgrinned and saluted them as they

were left in a cloud of dust.Breathing deeply, he hung on as hewas carried through town, and

jumped off as the chaise swept pastthe inn. Anxiety dogging his steps,he sped upstairs, flung open thedoorand pulled up short.

At a tiny table sat Cora DeLane, a

sleek and gleaming vision from hispast. Good morning, Robert. Thats alovely apron. Are you trying a newlook? His former mistress shot hima look of tolerant amusement before

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transferring her gaze across thetableto a rumpled, decidedlyuncomfortable image of his future.

Roberts heart began to pound. Evenbedraggled and stiff, Emma was the

most beautiful sight hed ever seen.Smiling, he ripped off the apron andstarted toward her.

Hello, Mr. Marchwell, she said in acold voice. I almost did not accept

your invitation, but just think what Imight have missed. Your...friend...hasbeen entertaining me with tales of

your exploits in society.

Cora laughed. And I had only justbegun to tell her how least-in-sight

youve been for the past few months,

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Robert, dear. Your timing is asatrocious as ever.

Thank you for keeping her safe,Cora. Robert knew every moment ofperil had been well worth it as he

knelt and took Emmas hands. Sheheld herself rigid, but he duckeddown until he could look into hereyes. So much has happened sincelast I saw you, Emma. Ive athousand things to tell you. But firstwill you talk to me? Whatshappened? Why are you here alone?His fingers gripped hers tighter.

And do you have the package I gave you?

Her eyes bright and hard, Emma methis gaze. Yes, I have your precious

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package, Robert Marchwell, and Iknow what it is. Though try as Imight, I cannot think of a goodreason for you to possess it. Herlips pinched together. Or even whysomeone would think to paint such

images on a fan. She shuddered.Its positively lewd.

Fan? Coras catlike lethargydisappeared. Lady Ramsdens fan?She stared at Robert. You did stealit from Rowland?

He didnt answer. Emma was jerking

her hands free of his. You shanthave it back, she said sharply. Illbe taking it on with metoWelbourne Manor.

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To Welbourne? Robert ignored theissue of the fan for the moment.Every part of him rebelled at thethought of Emma being exposed tothe fast and jaded society thatwould be gathering now at

Welbournethe very society he wasstriving to leave behind. Why are you going to Welbourne? Whatshappened to your uncle?

Ive no notion. She sniffed. But itcould not be worse than what he hadplanned for me.

And what was that? Coras languidamusement was back in place.

Sale to the highest bidder, Emmareplied bitterly. He got himself into

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financial trouble and decided I washis way out of it. Her chair scrapedas she pushed back and away fromhim. He found a disgusting,lecherous old baron who agreed tosplit my dowry with him. Her chin

lifted. I ran away instead. As to your question, Im going toWelbourne for a very specificreasonto be ruined.

Robert reared back. Ruined?

Indeed. Lord Bainbridge will onlyaccept a chaste maid. Just visiting

with my scandalous family and theirguests at Welbourne ought to givehim sufficient reason to doubt. Shestepped back as he stood. And no, Iwas not so foolish as to leave alone.

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She crossed to the window to gazedown upon the courtyard. I broughtmy maid along. Weve been makinggood time, but yesterday wediscovered that we were being

pursued, and last nightshe leftme. She tossed a hard look over hershoulder at him. Like so manyothers, she stole away. A rattlesounded outside and she turnedback. Likely so she wouldnt beblamed for helping me. She took allof my money with her. No doubt shemeans to lead my uncle straight

here.

Robert swallowed a surge of fury.Her uncle had turned him away as auseless fribble? It was beyond

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hypocritical. He took a step towardEmma. Hed known she was quick-witted and kind, with a generousheart. Now he watched her battleweariness and worry and he knewshe was so much more. She was

strong, full of fire and resolve. Hedrew a steadying breath. Yet sheseemed so distant, so different.

Hed realized last autumn that hewanted her by his side. Hed beenempty, aimless until he met her. Athird son, hed lived his life with nooccupation other than to stay within

his means and refrain from shaminghis family name. He, Cora and theothers in his circle drifted from onepleasure to another and wonderedwhy they eventually ceased to

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satisfy.

Emma, hed learned, was disarminglydifferent. She lived with joy andpurpose and he wanted to wakeevery morning to the light in her

eyes. But the obstacles before themwere numerousand multiplying.

Cora was staring at Emma with acalculating gleam in her eye. MightI see the fan, dear?

Emma flushed. Im sorry, MissDeLane, but I cannot allow it. Lady

Ramsden is my mothers sister.Although Ive never met her, I canimagine her dismay at the thoughtof this object in unknown hands,being ogled and evaluated and

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discussed by strangers. She shotanother cold look toward him. Oreven acquaintances. She shook herhead. No, the thing is in mypossession now, and there it will stayuntil I turn it over to her myself.

Robert stared at her and wonderedhow this situation had become sodamnably complicated. Months agohed had nothing more pressing onhis mind than whose bed he wouldend up in next. Meeting Emma hadshifted his outlook and changed hisdesires, but hed been at a loss until

the Duke of Manning offered himthe means to do something about it.

It was a simple enough bargain: asmall but prosperous estate in

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exchange for the fan. Not so easy inreality, but hed come so close. Hemust get that fan to the duke, butdid he want Emma to end up atWelbourne? He didnt have themeans, or the right, to stop her. Not

yet. But not only would it be harderto dodge Rowlands men with her intow, hed have to be on the watchfor her uncle. He also had enoughexperience with Cora DeLane toknow that the cat-and-mouse gameshe was playing with Emma bodedwell for neither of them.

I dont believe you know what youare getting into, Cora told Emma,watching her closely. Rowland wasfurious when the fan disappeared.With all the talk, that fan has

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become notoriousand notoriety, mydear, can be a valuable commodity.She sent a twinkling smile inRoberts direction. Rowland wantshis commodity back. Its rumoredthat hes hired a small army to chase

it down. She tilted her head atEmma. Perhaps you will want toreconsider your course of action.

Emmas face tightened. No. I wouldnot.

Cora breathed deeply. She relaxedin her chair and the air of

assessment left her expression.Good for you, dear. She sat amoment, smiling at Emma, and thenshe stood, her movements moredecisive than Robert had ever seen.

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And I shall help you. She gesturedat Robert. Both of you.

Robert hardly knew how to respond.Cora could indeed be a valuable allyor a dangerous enemy.

Emma merely blinked at her. Helpus?

Indeed. Its unfortunate that Icame in my barouche, but we shallmanage. We must move quickly,theres not a moment to waste. Shecrooked her finger at Emma. You,

dear, shall become my protg. Hergrin took on a decidedly wicked cast.And Robertyour apron hasinspired me. I think that you shall

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make a splendid footman.

Chapter Three

Here was another first. Since thatfateful moment when shed steppedinto her uncles study andencountered Lord Bainbridge, Emmahad experienced a distressingnumber of uncomfortable firsts.

This one, however, might just be herfavorite.

Miss DeLane had transformed her.With a scant thirty minutes, aborrowed gown and the help of oneof the inns maids, shed alteredEmma completely. Oh, she knewshed always looked passably fair

and exactly like what she was, a

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simple countrywoman of comfortablemeans. Men had watched her with atleast a degree of appreciation.

But this was different. With herskin scrubbed and glowing, her hair

elaborately coiffed and her bosomdisplayed by a fitted bodice withelaborate embroidery, she feltsomehow changed. At once strongerand more vulnerable. The attentionshe was receiving from the menmilling about the inns taproom hadchanged as well and become...intense.

Last week she might have beenuncomfortable with such notice.Today she merely tossed her headand watched impatiently for RobertMarchwell. The new, cynical part of

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her soul wished him to have a tasteof what hed so easily left behindand to choke on it. She had to waituntil Miss DeLane had finished herbusiness with the innkeeper. At lastit was done and Emma followed her

new mentor out into the courtyard.And immediately had to swallow aburst of laughter.

Robert stood stiffly near MissDeLanes open carriage, the stain ofembarrassment cast across his face.Or perhaps it was merely areflection from his new costume.

Miss DeLane had worked her magicon him as well, with an entirelydifferent effect. The apron wasgone, but somehow she hadunearthed an old set of livery. Once

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a rich, vivid red, time and wear hadfaded it to an odd pinkish-orange.Stretched tight across his shouldersand not quite closed in front, it lentRobert the unfortunate aspect of aripening pomegranate.

Emma knew the moment he caughtsight of her. His pained expressionmelted into a blank look of shock. Hetook an involuntary step toward her.

Ah, Jenkins, Miss DeLane saidsmoothly. How prompt you are. As

you can see, my young friend and I

are ready to leave at last.

Emmas mouth twitched as Robertrecalled his role. Woodenly heturned to assist them into the

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barouche. She could not help a surgeof satisfaction as his hand grippedhersharder and longer than wasstrictly necessary.

The moment stretched on. Miss

DeLane cleared her throat andannounced her desire to depart.

He let go. Emmas amusement fadedas, instead of climbing up beside thedriver, Robert stepped onto theperch at the back of the vehicle.She sat in the backward-facing seatand he stood staring straight down

and across at her.

The barouche lurched to a start, andeased from the courtyard into thestreet. The London Road stretched

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ahead, wide and even. The trafficheading toward Town moved briskly.

He couldnt have noticed any of it.His eyes never left her for amoment. At first Emma kept her

chin high and her own gaze fastenedon the countryside, on the farmcarts they passed, or the ridersmoving smartly past them. But shesaw none of it, either. The intensityof her focus matched his. Anunnatural silence held sway as theheavy weight of his regard left herskin tingling in its wake. She felt the

path of his gaze, as tangible as thetouch of a hand as it traveled fromthe luxurious ribbon entwined in herhair to the dainty slippers peekingfrom beneath her skirts.

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At last her resolve weakened, andslowly she turned her head to meethis eyes. And there it was, that lookthat had so captivated her lastautumn. Their odd situation, the

presence of Miss DeLane, even hisridiculous liveryit all faded intothe background. She was caught uponce more in the connection thatthey had shared.

Their attraction had beenimmediate, their conversation open,candid and amusing. Shed been

intoxicated, her senses drunk withhim, her thoughts filled with histeasing laughter, his stolen kissesand whispered promises. Afterseveral glorious weeks, Robert had

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left Somerset with the extendedhouse party that had brought him,but hed pledged to return for her.

And then Emmas father had died.Her world had broken apart. In her

grief she had waited for Robertbut he had never come. Heartbreakhad proved to be as terrible aburden as grief. And shed enduredit alone.

Perhaps that had been the mostpainful part of all of this. Evenamidst her uncles family, shed

never been more isolated, or moreterribly lonely. And that still had notchanged, she realized suddenly.Mere chance had brought Robert toher again. Shed be a fool to expect

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any different sort of outcome fromthis meeting than shed had fromthe last.

It was enough to break the spell.Her heart twisted as she turned

away. Shed been right all along. Herbest chance for safety and perhapsa small measure of happiness lay atWelbourne. Though her heart mightbe damaged past repair, at least shewould not suffer alone.

* * *

The sun was setting behind them,the last rays radiating warmth onRoberts back. It had been a longand eventful day; one hed neverimagined would end with him

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playacting as Cora DeLanes footman.

But then, hed never imagined hemight encounter Emma today, either.As the barouche swayed, he watchedher, his frustration slowly turning to

irritation.

She looked incredible. In the pasttheir time had been spent in countrypursuits; riding and picnicking, inafternoon visits and informaldinners. Shed looked beautiful then,of coursefresh and happy, glowingwith health and good humor.

Cora had dressed her as asophisticate and she looked evenlovelier powdered and pampered. Hischest tightened at the thought of

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her reception by the type of menlikely to be gathered at Welbourne.And yet the internal changes toEmma distressed him even more.

Shed been through so much; of

course she was due a measure ofbitterness and anger. Yet a gooddeal of it appeared to be directed athim. Though Coras help wasundoubtedly proving invaluable, hecursed her presence. He needed toget Emma alone, to explain all thathed been trying to do for them, tellher how important that fan was and

explain his bargain with the Duke ofManning.

Do you know that I purposefullychanged into this high-necked frock

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before we left, Cora announced idly.But now I see that it was a wastedeffort.

It took a moment for her meaning toregister. It wasnt until Emma

blushed and he looked down overCoras shoulder that Robert realizedhis unique position on this cursedplatform. Though he was severalfeet behind Cora, he stood a gooddeal higher. Had her gown been cutlow and revealing he would have beenin an ideal spot to appreciate it.

In fact, I feel quite cheated, Coracontinued. Had I known that thetwo of you were only going toblanket this trip in layers of silenceand...tension, I might have declined

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to help you after all.

Neither he nor Emma had an answerto that.

And my earlier conversation with

Miss Lawson proved so entertaining,too, Cora said, sighing. I told herall manner of stories about yourexploits in our circles, Robert, andshe turned several charming shadesof red.

Above her, Robert clenched his jaw.

You were always entertaining, shesaid sadly. I meant to ask dear MissLawson if she might have known whywed seen so little of you in the lastmonthsbut then you arrived. She

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angled her jaw and smiled up at him.And now I may ask you directly.Just what has been occupying youand keeping you so busy and quiet?

At least Emma had looked at him

again. She raised an arched brow asif to echo Coras question. Robertswallowed. Ive been engaged insome business with the Duke ofManning.

Ah. Cora sat quietly for severalminutes. I begin to see. The duke isa generous man. Ive known him

to...adopt a person now and again.She shuddered. Youd think hedhave no time for it, what with themenagerie of children he andCatherine are rearing at Welbourne,

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but he is known to treat his friendshandsomely, especially when they dohim a service. She shot a glanceacross at Emma. And if he askedsuch a difficult and immense thingof you as stealing that fan back

why, then, I would expect thereward to be just as immense.

Robert didnt reply. Emmas gaze hadreturned to her lap. Cora was stillstudying her with a slight smile onher face. But really, Robert. Ivenever known you to be under thehatches before. Youve always lived

admirably within your means. Shecocked her head. What is it thathas changed, I wonder, to put you inneed of a...favor...from the Duke ofManning?

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Emmas head jerked up again.

But enough about you, Cora saiddecisively. I wish to hear moreabout Miss Lawsons dilemma.

She paused, her head tilting. Robertstiffened as a shout echoed frombehind them.

Ho, there! Hold the carriage!

Robert twisted around to see twohorsemen coming up quickly behind

them. Fury and alarm battled withinhim as he recognized Rowlands hiredmen. He spun back to glare down atCora.

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Davies, pull over to the side of theroad, she called to her driver. Buttake your time about it. Shereached across the barouche to gripEmmas arm. Wipe that look offright from your face, Cora

commanded. You are a coquette, do you here? You will be demureexcept when I am not lookingandthen you will glance flirtatiously,enticingly, at these men. She satback and arranged her features intoa slight frown. Robert, she hissedwithout looking at him. You will tryand look like a footman!

Robert met Emmas terrified gazewith a reassuring one of his ownbefore the men drew abreast and hestraightened, staring blankly ahead.

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Miss DeLane, the biggest man saidin a reproachful voice. You leftMaidenhead without checking in. Welost Marchwell. Did he keep yourappointment?

Roberts fists clenched along withhis gut. He should have known betterthan to trust Cora!

She stared at the hired henchman,her smile gone to ice. He did. But hewas as nervous as a cat and notinclined to trust me with your men so

close on his heels. She waved adismissive hand. I told you to leavehim to me, but you bungled it. Andnow you delay me. She narrowed hereyes. Marchwell mentioned his

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family estate in Gloucestershirebefore he became suspicious. I leftword for you. Why are you not afterhim?

Robert saw the second man eyeing

Emma. She stared at her hands, onlythe flutter of long eyelashesbetraying her obedience to Corasinstructions. None of them sparedRobert a glance.

I received no word, the firsthireling said.

Did you check at the inn?

No.

Idiot, Cora huffed. And now he is

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several hours ahead of you. LordRowland will not be pleased. Shescowled. I must return to him inLondon before my protg and Idepart for the wedding.

The mans horse danced nervouslybeneath him. Miss, about LordRowland...

I shall tell him exactly what hashappened, Cora said spitefully.Were I you, I would be inGloucestershire as fast as I could.

Wait! she called as they both spuntheir mounts around. I assumethere are men posted ahead?

Yes, the first man said, impatient.

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How many?

He shrugged. A great many, Id say.Rowland wants his property backbefore that wedding.

I shall send a few of them after you, should I encounter them. Youregoing to need reinforcements.

The henchman nodded and they weregone. Road dust hung in the coolingevening air. Cora asked hercoachman to drive on. She sat back,

seemingly at ease. Do not look at meso, Robert, she ordered.

You cannot know how I look rightnow, Miss DeLane, he answered

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tightly.

I do not have to, I can feel theindignation pouring from you. Shepatted Emmas hand. Its not what

you think, dear. True, Rowland is

my...

Protector, Robert spat.

Yes. She sighed. But Catherine, your aunt, is a very dear friend.When Rowland asked for my help, Idecided to do what I could to getthat fan myself. She laughed. And

while I would have had nocompunction in taking it from you,Robert, I do not feel the same aboutEmma. She smiled at the girl. Ibelieve you do have Catherines best

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interest at heart.

Cora craned her neck to look back athim. Hounslow is just ahead. I havefriends there. I will makearrangements for you to stay for

the night. Ill have to go on orRowlands men will begin to suspectsomething. Her gaze lifted to thecountryside. It is a few triflingmiles overland to Welbourne fromthere. I trust you, Robert, to actthe gentleman. You must leave firstthing in the morning and get Emmaand that fan to Lady Catherine.

Impotent fury nearly stole Robertsbreath. It was quickly replaced witha burning determination to get this

job done. He suffered the

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uncontrollable urge to grab Emma,leap from the barouche and tell CoraDeLane to go to hell. He didnt. Hebalanced on his precarious perch, hismind awhirl, all the way to Hounslow.Night had fallen when the driver

turned down a lane and followed anarrow track to an inn tuckedbeyond the main village drag. Robert

jumped down and pulled Emma fromthe vehicle.

A stout woman with a lanternemerged from the run-downbuilding.

Plans have changed, Cora told hergrimly, climbing down. This oneneeds to change back into her ownclothes. She smiled at Emma. Youll

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be less conspicuous as a dustytraveler.

Robert flinched when she touchedhis arm. Different clothes for him.Perhaps a tenant farmer?

And you? the lady innkeeper asked.

Ill be going on. But theyll need tostay hidden for the night.

She nodded. The hay barn outbackll do.

For the first time since theyd beenstopped by Rowlands men, Emmaspoke. No, she said flatly. It willnot.

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Cora took her hand. Your cynicism isentirely understandable. Your uncleused you ill indeed. Its just a hunch,dear, but I think you must waitbefore painting Robert with thesame brush.

Wait for what? Emma asked. Shesounded exhausted.

Cora glanced his way. Perhaps until you can discover if your lecherousbaron was the only man to ask youruncle for your hand.

Roberts breath caught. Could it beso simple?

Of course he was. Emma soundedbitter now.

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No, Robert contradicted herclearly. He was not.

Chapter Four

He was not. Roberts innocuousstatement had set Emmas worldaskew. Bainbridge hadnt been the

only man to ask for her hand.

Numb. She concentrated fiercely onfeeling nothing, showing nothing, asthe inns mistress tugged her inside,past a noisy taproom and up to anempty chamber. Emma accepted herhelp in changing out of her borrowedfinery and back into her travel-

stained garments.

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Had Robert asked for her? Had hekept his promise? Her heartpounded, ready to soar at thepossibility. Some part of her wasscreaming in happiness. Another

huddled small, sobbing in relief. Shesquelched them both, along withmyriad other wildly erraticemotions.

Her lessons might have come late,but shed learned them well. Shestruggled to keep her expectationslow and her walls high. She didnt

think she could survive another blow,another disappointment. How wouldshe bear it if it were not true?

Outside, night had settled and Cora

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DeLane was ready to continue on. Inthe murky light of the innkeeperslantern, Robert was nowhere to beseen. Cora huddled with the olderlady a moment, their whispers nomatch for the good-natured

rowdiness emanating from thetaproom.

Numb, Emma reminded herself asCora left the woman with a last,urgent-sounding admonition. Sheheld herself aloof, unfeeling asRoberts ex-mistress hugged herclose and then held her at arms

length, searching her face.

Whatever she was looking for wasnot to be found. Emma started whenCora cupped her face in both hands,

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her stern gaze boring into her own.You will not do this. You will not beafraid, Cora whispered. Youvecome too far to give in to fear now.She let go and turned to climb intoher vehicle. Emma, dear, she said,

settling into her seat. You can behappy if only you will allow it.

Emma swallowed a surge of emotionand did not respond. The barouchebegan to move. Cora leaned forward.Stay hidden tonight. Robert willtake you on to Welbourne beforefirst light. Get that fan to your aunt.

Its the best wedding gift you couldgive her. Gravel crunched beneaththe vehicles wheels. Give myregards to Catherine, Cora called.

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Emma nodded and waved. She stood,staring after the vehicle, until theinnkeeper called her to attention.

This way. The older womangestured with her lantern. The

taprooms full of locals, shewhispered hoarsely. The maincoaching inns are full tonight andIve several rooms let to theoverflow. She looked over hershoulder. Even here theres endlesstalk of the wedding at Welbourne,Rowlands auction and that missingitem. Theres a reward out for that

thing, although folks is split on whodpay more to have it, the duke or the

jilted lover. Itd be best if no oneever knew you were here.

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Emma clutched at the thin bulk ofthe fan, tied safely into a pocketunder her skirts. But it was notconcern over the fan that had heranxiety escalating as she followedthe bobbing light past the stables,

to an even smaller, older barn.Robert was in there. Whatever wasshe going to say to him?

The hay barn, the innkeeper said.Nobody comes here at night, thoughtheres an empty grooms loft with acot for you. Spose it wont hurt thegentleman to sleep the night in the

hay. She cracked the door open.Theres supper in there, and a bitof traveling supplies. I expect youllbe gone before the cock crows.

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Thank you, Emma whispered.

Thank Cora, not me. Its all herdoin.

Emma stared at the open door while

Coras words echoed in her head. Youcan be happy, if only you allow it.

Resolutely, she entered the barn.

* * *

Robert watched as Emma lingered atthe door. Her posture was stiff, her

face carefully blank. She hadntknown. It was clear now that she hadnever been told of his visit, hisoffer. Robert didnt know if he wasangrier with her despicable uncle, or

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with her.

Shed believed hed abandoned her.She hadnt trusted him to keep hisword.

Come in and eat, he said, gesturingto the bread, cheese and wine atop acrate.

Shed left her bonnet off. Even thedim light of the covered lamp setalight the sunlit streaks in her tawnyhair. He stared at them, unspeakingas she slowly crossed the tiny space

and sat upon a crooked stool.

Robert, she whispered. Her gazewas cast downward.

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Eat, he ordered. He should avoidthis now. It would be better to wait,to have this conversation when theywerent so isolated, when hed hadtime to gather sufficient control.Were leaving early, you should

sleep.

Im sorry. She looked up then. Imust apologize. Its true, I didntknow, but I should never havebelieved...

That I was a worthless fribble? hebarked. Thats what your uncle

named me, when I had the audacityto ask for your hand. Perhaps Ishould have waitedit was rightafter your fathers death and Iwished only to see you, comfort you.

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But he made it clear he had otherplans for you.

She reached out a hand but hemoved away. Dont. I cant reallyblame either of you, for he was

right.

No, she denied. He wasnt.

He was. At that time I had nothingto recommend me save a closeacquaintance with the fast and looseset of the ton. He met her darkeyes. But Ive changed. You inspired

me. The Duke of Manning noticed,and encouraged me. Ive workedclosely with him, and learned muchabout business and land management.I hoped to make something of

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myself, to become worthy of you.

She rose and crossed to him, slippingher hands around his waist. Youvealways been worthy. But Ive let youdown.

A terrible tension eased within himat her words and with her touch. Hegripped her tight, breathing in thescent of her hair before he took herseat upon the stool, bringing heralong to sit in his lap. When thefuror about the auction and the fanarose, the duke asked for my help. I

agreed to do anything I could.

Of course.

And then do you know what he

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offered? He promised me an estate,should I succeed. Its small, but itwill be all mine. He squeezed herwaist. Its an unbelievableopportunity.

She smiled and laid a hand across hischeek. Suddenly he grinned. Whenshe shifted hed felt the press of along and narrow object against hiship. Is that where youve beenkeeping the damned thing?

She laughed. Its safe there. Shesobered. Such a small thing to

cause so much trouble.

Robert sighed. Rowlandcommissioned it years ago, after

your aunt left her husband to live

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with her duke. He ran a finger alongher jaw. Terrible things were saidabout her, then and since.Assumptions were made about hercharacter and awful predictions ofher complete ruination abounded. I

suppose Rowland thought owningsuch an object would be a lark. Ifshe really had been as wanton assome said, perhaps he would haveenticed her to his bed. He smiledgrimly. But she and the duke haveproved loyal to each other and arestill very much in love.

She wasnt afraid to be happy,Emma whispered.

He shrugged. I know Rowlandstaunted her for years with the

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existence of that fan. ButCatherines a strong woman. Sheflushed and he stared into her darkeyes. Like her niece.

She smiled and arched slightly. He

almost shouted his relief. Emma washere, in his lap, smiling at him again,her luscious mouth positioned justright for his kiss.

God, but he wanted nothing morethan to oblige her. Every fiber of hisbeing ached to snatch her close andtaste her once more. He wanted to

kiss her senseless, until all theturmoil and trouble about themdisappeared and there was only herand him, and the sweet spiral oftheir desire. Instead, Robert

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groaned and did the hardest thinghed ever done in his life. He set hislove off of his lap and stood.

Thrusting a hand in his hair heoffered her a grimace of apology.

Im sorry, Emma, but this is not ourtime or our place. I started thiscrazy journey meaning to provesomething to your uncle. And then Iwanted to prove myself to the duke.He could only hope she wouldunderstand. But now I mean tofinish this for me. For us.

He set his hands on her shoulders,and allowed himself one quick,tantalizing kiss on her lips. Im goingto get you and that fan safely toWelbourne. Were going to outwit

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Rowland, leave your uncle and histreacherous baron high and dry, andset your aunt at ease at last. Heleaned down and rested his foreheadon hers. Tomorrow well be at thegates of Welbourne. And there well

decide our own futures.

* * *

They left the barn early, before thebirds had even begun to stir. Robertshook her awake and then climbedback down out of the loft. Hehitched a nag to the rickety old cart

hed hired from the innkeeper andthey were off; a farmer and his wifemoving slowly along backcountrylanes.

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Emma huddled beneath her cloak,lost in contemplation. Shed thoughtherself so brave, following in heraunts footsteps, leaving her uncleshouse to follow the path of herchoosing. But shed acted nothing

but a coward since the first momentshed glimpsed Robert on the streetin Maidenhead.

Her aunt was courageous,withstanding the censure of theworld to follow her heart. Robertwas brave, daring to change thecourse of his life. But shed been

weak. She should have beenforthright and asked him where hedbeen, if he still cared for her andhow and why hed come to possessthat fan. Instead shed hidden,

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afraid of the answers. Shed letcynicism and bitterness color herperceptions.

But no longer. She knew Robertwanted to wait until theyd finished

this, but suddenly Emma wanted himto know everything she was feeling.Now. Before theyd reached the endof their journey and without thedistractions that would inevitablyarise at Welbourne.

Robert. Emma placed her hand onhis, where he held the reins loosely.

Theyd passed through the village ofTwickenham. Robert had just begunto take the turn that would shortlybring them to Welbourne.

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Robert, she repeated, insistent.

He pulled the horses up in themiddle of the intersection and eyedher questioningly.

I have something to say, and I donot wish to wait.

His brow furrowed, he waited.

Emma gathered her courage. Ivebeen a terrible coward. Sheshushed him when he stared toprotest. Its true. The moment I

saw you, in that silly apron, carryinga stack of empty crates, I closedmyself off from you. Id been hurtand I was afraid it would happenagain. So I pushed you away, looked

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for reasons to be angry and toldmyself Id be happier without youwhen really I just wanted to besafe.

She scooted closer to him on the

bench and leaned into his reassuringwarmth. But youve shown me whatit means to be brave, to risk failurein search of happiness. I see nowthat if I wall myself off from thenegative or difficult things in life,then Im closed to all of the goodthings as well.

She breathed deeply. So Im goingto tell you, right now, that Im notgoing to give in to fear any longer. Iwant to be happy. I choose to behappy. With you.

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Robert transferred the ribbons toone hand, and trailed the fingers ofthe other along the line of her jaw.She tilted her head to him and thistime, at last, he leaned down and

pressed his mouth to hers.

A torrent of emotion surged throughEmma. Joy and pride and a greatswell of love for this man unfurledinside of her. She opened beneathhim, and daringly touched her tongueto his. He moaned in response andkissed her deeply, his heavy hand

settling at the small of her back andurging her closer.

Emma was lost, awash in a haze ofpounding hearts and communing souls

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and rising desire. Gradually, though,the rumble of wheels and the jingleof harness began to pierce thesensual cloud that surrounded them.Robert pulled away, his grin rueful,and they both looked over their

shoulders to find a coach and fourcome to a stop behind them.

The coachman sat atop his box,watching them with a commiseratinggrin, but the occupant of the coach,a wizened old man, had poked hishead out of the window.

Out of the way! he shouted. Heshook a cane in their direction.What do you think youre about,blocking the public roadand withsuch vulgar affrontery!

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Aghast, Emma shrank back. ItsBainbridge, she whispered. She metRoberts questioning stare withhorror. The baronmy uncle!

Robert stiffened, but before hecould react, they were all hailed by acall from ahead. Emma cringedfurther when she caught sight ofher uncle on horseback, coming fromthe direction of Welbourne.

Might as well turn around. Theyvehad no sign of the chit, he called to

Bainbridge. He passed Robert andEmma with barely a glance at theirworn clothes and ancient cart.

The maid! Bainbridge exclaimed.

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That lying jade...

No, the girl spoke the truth.Emmas uncle sighed. We must havemissed her on the road. Letsretrace our steps a bit and stop to

think. He waved impatiently atRobert. Well, go on, good man, andquit blocking the road.

Fighting a grin, Robert shrugged atEmma and shook out the reins,urging the nag to continue. Emmaclutched his leg tightly until thecoach and her uncle had turned

about and headed back toward thevillage. She stared openmouthed atRobert as he pulled the horse upagain. He bit his lip. She giggledand then they both dissolved in a

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flood of hilarity and relief.

* * *

Soon after, they stopped before thegleaming gates of Welbourne Manor.

Robert helped Emma down andsoberly they stared at the gorgeousgardens beyond and the twinkle ofthe Thames in the distance.

Weve fought hard to get here,Robert mused, and now I feelstrangely reluctant to enter.

I feel the same.

He turned and took her in his arms.You journeyed here to becomeruined. In a way, I came to save

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myself. But I dont think either ofthose goals fit us any longer.

No. She sighed.

What do you say we take the fan to

the doorstep, with instructions forit to be delivered to the duke andhis soon-to-be duchess, complimentsof her niece

And of you, too, she insisted.

He nodded and kissed her nose. Andthen shall we just continue on?

Her eyes lit up. Where shall wego?

I was thinking of Gretna Green.

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Emma stood on tiptoe and wrappedher arms about his neck. Itsperfect. Lets go and be happy.

THE END