An Earl's Queen (A Rogues and Rakehells Mystery Book 2) Read online

  An Earl’s Queen

  A Rogues and Rakehells Mystery, Book Two

  By Lindsay Downs

  Published by TouchPoint Romance

  This is a work of fiction. Names, places, characters, and events are fictitious in every regard. Any similarities to actual events and persons, living or dead, are purely coincidental. Any trademarks, service marks, product names, or named features are assumed to be the property of their respective owners, and are used only for reference. There is no implied endorsement if any of these terms are used. Except for review purposes, the reproduction of this book in whole or part, electronically or mechanically, constitutes a copyright violation.

  AN EARL’S QUEEN

  Copyright © 2015 LINDSAY DOWNS

  Cover Art Designed by Heidi Sieverding

  To the brave women and men of the US Armed Forces

  Chapter One

  With a month left in the Season and Parliament soon rising for the summer, Anthony, Earl of Wyatt, glanced around the Rucker ballroom in disgust.

  “If this is the future of England, then I’m better off hiding out at my estate,” he mumbled, not realizing his mother was standing behind him.

  “I agree as I’ve never seen such inappropriate behavior by not only the chits but the so-called gentlemen of the ton,” she replied.

  Tony, as he was affectionately known by only a select few, turned on hearing his mother, Countess of Wyatt, speak no truer words. Never one for the many gaming hells which populated London and tired of seducing married women, which had always been easy for him, Lord Anthony gave his mother a weak smile.

  “Cheer up, Son, maybe in the fall when a new crop arrives to be presented in court, you might find that one lady who you will wish to marry.”

  What she’d not spoken aloud but inferred, “that I approve of, to take up the mantle as the Countess of Wyatt”. It hadn’t been his beloved mother who’d stopped him from selecting one from the current crop but the young ladies themselves. Most of them cared little for anyone, even their supposed closest confidents.

  From experience, Tony knew if you couldn’t trust a true friend then they weren’t a friend. This had always bothered him in having to keep secrets from Rainer in regards to his involvement in bringing Bianca’s father to heel.

  “Then Mother, with your permission, I’m going to quit this farce and in the morning depart for the estate.”

  As the official head of the family, Tony knew he didn’t need her approval, but she was still his mother, whom he respected greatly.

  “Yes, if you think it for the best? However, if you’re willing to wait two days, I’ll be more than happy to join you.”

  He knew exactly why she wished to wait the extra time, to quickly put together a small house party at the estate. The only thing which had him wondering, who would she invite considering his comment about the young ladies and gentlemen? Then again, this was only one of three balls being held this evening, and the guests here were the same ones he’d seen throughout the season. He silently hoped his mother would be able to invite at least one or two candidates for his consideration.

  “Agreed, as long as you keep it small,” he ordered.

  “I promise no more than ten to twelve.”

  Tony knew if that was the number she’d invite, or at least was telling him then he could expect twice that. In the morning he’d have to dash off a quick note to his butler, Usher, to alert him of the influx of guests and their staff. As for arranging the suites, he’d leave that to his mother since she was better at planning that particular detail.

  His primary concern would be to make sure the gentlemen were entertained, when not chasing the young ladies.

  “Countess, when were you thinking of having the guests descend upon us? I only ask because I’ll need to make sure the pavilion by the lake is ready.”

  If she answered, Tony had no idea as his attention was distracted by a vision of beauty standing at the top of the ballroom stairs. Due to the noise coming from people talking and the musicians murdering a country dance he couldn’t hear her being announced. Cocking his head toward his mother he raised a brow.

  “Yes, that’s Lady Chelsea. She’s the daughter of the Earl and Countess of Braxton. She made her bows to the ton last year and as with you now, became discouraged with the selection of gentlemen. To be honest, I’m a bit surprised she’s here,” his mother proclaimed.

  “Why is that? A lady as beautiful as she is, I’m surprised gentlemen aren’t throwing themselves at her feet.”

  “It’s very simple, Son. I’ve known her mother for ages as we made our bows the same year. Lady Chelsea is fully aware of those seeking her hand, and even though there have been offers she’s refused them. And before you even think of asking for an introduction, don’t.”

  Considering what his mother had told him and his reputation within the ton he knew his request would meet with death ears. If not from the countess at least from Lady Chelsea’s parents.

  “Then I shan’t.”

  In the past when he’d acquiesced so readily, his mother usually reconsidered and arranged a formal meeting, but judging from the glare she shot him, not this time. With a shrug he glanced back to Lady Chelsea as she seemingly floated down the highly polished oak stairs. Behind her he saw the earl and countess. Both, not surprisingly, were wearing scowls at the outrageous behavior of some of the young ladies and their flirtatious nature.

  Tony continued to study Chelsea as she glanced around the room. He wondered if she might be looking for someone special, then when their eyes met she smiled but not at him, someone beside him. Glancing to his left the only person there was his mother. Turning his head further around, all he saw were pillars, the back wall to the ballroom, and some potted plant, of which he didn’t know or care its name.

  He wondered if there could be some connection between the two countesses his mother had purposefully failed to mention. Keeping his focus on Chelsea, Tony watched as she separated from her parents and swept toward him. Directly behind her, and rushing to catch up, was her mother. Not wishing to make a scene, he gracefully stepped behind his mother then started to slip away. After all, he did have a reputation to consider.

  With Rainer and his bride, Bianca, having only recently retreated to the country Tony was now the most dangerous rakehell to grace the balls, terraces, and bedrooms of London.

  “Don’t you dare take another step or it will be your last,” his mother snapped at him.

  Knowing he’d been well and truly caught in his attempt to retreat, Tony stopped then back stepped to where he was standing behind his mother.

  “You will stand right where you are, bow to them, and not say a word. Even if Lady Chelsea requests an introduction it will not be forthcoming. She’s too much of a lady to be associated with a rogue such as yourself. Do I make myself clear?” his mother murmured to him.

  Wondering if her question was rhetorical or not, Tony chose to play it safe and not reply. Instead he stood with his back ramrod straight and feet spread shoulder width with his hands clasped behind his back.

  When Chelsea curtsied to his mother, he bowed from habit which earned him a glower from her. Even this unladylike behavior, on her, was becoming. If he didn’t know better, given a chance the young lady’s mother would, and could, easily flay him alive considering the unnerving glare from her. He watched her step up and give his mother a slight curtsey.

  “Rosalind how wonderful to see you. I was wondering if I could impose upon you for a little favor?” Iris, Chelsea’s mother asked.

  “Certainly my dear. You know I can’t refuse you considering
how you rescued me from that horrible Russian prince years ago,” Rosalind stated.

  Wait? What? A Russian prince? This was the first time he’d heard of any of this and wondered exactly what had occurred. One thing he knew, now or maybe never was the time to ask about it.

  “The earl and I need to remain in London until July, and we don’t wish Lady Chelsea to be alone at our estate. Would you consider having her visit with you? I have full faith she will be safe under your care, even considering His Lordship and his reputation.”

  “Iris you need not say any more. I was planning to put together a little house party starting in a few days, and Lady Chelsea is more than welcome to join us. As for the Earl, trust me, I’ll be making sure all the young ladies invited are well protected from his charms. I’m even contemplating sending him to Scotland for the duration.”

  “I don’t think you need to go that far, nor does he. I trust you in making sure the ladies attending will remain safe and uncompromised, unless they otherwise wish to be,” Chelsea’s mother teased.

  While the two mothers talked, Tony kept his focus on Chelsea to see her reaction to what was being said. Much to his dismay, when sending him north was mentioned, he saw her shoulders gently shake as if trying to refrain from a giggle.

  One thing he was determined to get was a formal introduction, this night and not when she arrived at the estate. His reasoning, which he’d keep to himself, was he could feel the palms of his hands itching to hold her while taking a waltz.

  Screwing up his nerves he stepped around so he was facing his mother.

  “Countess, if Lady Chelsea will be partaking in your, not my, house party, I believe a formal introduction is called for as I’ll be the host?”

  The silence which followed his proclamation had him worried his request would be refused, until–

  “Lord Anthony, Earl of Wyatt, may I present Lady Chelsea Parsons,” his mother stated not even, he noticed glancing to him but her. “Also, any thoughts of asking to partner with her in a waltz will be met with my, not to mention her mother’s, great disapproval.”

  Silencing a disappointed moan, Tony bowed to her curtsey but did notice a slight coyness in her eyes when he offered his hand.

  Is it possible there could be a touch of the mischief in her?

  Tony studied her face and noticed it seemed a bit flushed. Was it from the forced introduction? No. It was from the overly warm ballroom crowded with people. Even though branded a rakehell, never risking the discomfort of a lady was always paramount to him.

  “M’ lady, now that we’re made known to each other, and with a dance out of the question, might I escort you about the veranda? Properly chaperoned of course.”

  A few minutes ago Tony had seen the earl slip away, most likely to one of several side rooms where games of chance were being offered. This could be the turn of events which allowed him to squire Chelsea about, thus letting others know he was interested in her. The only other question, could she be attracted to him? He delicately mentioned the disappearance of the earl getting, to his relief, positive responses from both countesses.

  Offering Chelsea his arm, he guided her down the long side of the ballroom and onto the adjoining veranda. Once outside, under normal conditions, he would have carefully, so the target of his temporary affections wouldn’t know his plan, guide the young lady to a spot where shadows were prevalent. There he’d attempt to steal a kiss, but with Chelsea he knew that was an impossibility.

  “Lady Chelsea, I believe we would be safer, at least for my hide to remain intact, if we don’t stray too far from the doors. I’ve no idea what your mother might do, but I can assure you mine will come after me as a wounded charging elephant would.”

  “Then I agree with your suggestion as I know of your reputation. However, and for some strange reason, I feel safe and comfortable with you. I also know, m’ lord, even without a chaperone, you would maintain propriety as required of a gentleman,” she declared in a low voice, so not to be overheard by the mothers.

  Of all the words spoken to him since being labeled a rakehell, without a doubt, Chelsea’s were the most interesting. Never had he been told by a young lady they trusted him. With a glance over his shoulder, he noticed the two countesses were deep in conversation. Whatever they were discussing must have been highly important, and about him, as one then the other would glare in his direction.

  “M’ lady, other than my unsavory reputation do you have an inkling what our mothers are talking about?”

  “I’m sorry m’ lord but I don’t, except it could be about the house party I’ve been invited to by the Countess.”

  He knew that could be a strong possibility as Chelsea was attending most likely without a chaperone, save her lady’s maid. That thought gave him an idea to make sure she’d be protected, not so much from himself, but from the other gentlemen attending the event.

  “Lady Chelsea, when you travel to the house party would you care to join the countess and myself in our carriage?”

  “Lord Anthony, as everything has happened so quickly this evening, I have no idea what arrangements will be made. I will speak with my mother and inform her of your gracious offer. Now, I believe we should return to the ballroom.”

  “I agree as it would seem both of your chaperones are storming toward us,” Tony declared, settling her hand on his arm.

  As Tony guided her through the French doors the opening strains of a waltz started. Quickly glancing around, he didn’t at first see his or Chelsea’s mother until it was almost too late. Already having been warned not to partner with her, he let out a moan of disappointment. With luck, at the house party, as rules tended to relax, he hoped to share a waltz or three with her.

  “Lady Chelsea, we have a lot to do over the next few days to get you ready for the house party. On that, I’d suggest we depart and return to our townhouse,” her mother declared.

  Tony watched as the two ladies made their way up the ballroom, climbed the stairs, and disappeared into the night. All he knew, the next few weeks would be very interesting, to say the least.

  Chapter Two

  After taking care of his morning needs and dressed in a dark brown jacket along with britches and riding boots, Tony made his way down to the small family dining room. It surprised him he was able to do all this with only a few tormented hours of sleep. In actuality, not that he’d admit it, much less to himself, he’d had a full night’s rest. The problem had been dreams of Chelsea naked and sharing his bed.

  Then there was the question of why he hadn’t met Chelsea during this season. Last year he easily understood since he had needed to travel to Italy and back to prove Bianca’s father was guilty of two murders. That had been resolved just as this social whirl had begun. Granted, during the course of an evening there had to be anywhere from six to eight balls all of which requested his presence. Well, so to speak, considering his reputation.

  Add to that the fact he tended to focus on one young lady, in particular, each eve. So it was possible he might not have seen Chelsea. This helped add to his dilemma. Why had she, with her parents, appeared at the Rucker ball and approached his mother? Was it by chance or planned on their part?

  The more he dwelled on it, the more questions filtered into his mind.

  Selecting his breakfast meats, eggs, and toast Tony stepped over to the table and took his seat. As he proceeded to eat he realized he needed to speak with his mother about the house party. Wasting no time he ate, then after a last sip of coffee pushed back from the table and made his way to the stairs and the countess’ parlor.

  As he marched past his office he glanced in and moaned. Sitting on the left side of his desk was a pile of envelopes. In each one waited an invitation to a ball or some other boring evening’s diversion with the same insipid young ladies and want-to-be rakehells. For once he was happy his mother had suggested they not only depart the city but host a house party. Continuing down the corridor, he slowed on approaching her sitting room. He stood in the d
oorway, silent, and watched her address an envelope then add it to a small stack at her elbow.

  If he wasn’t mistaken they were invitations for a select few to attend the private gathering he, correction, she was organizing. Not wishing to startle her, Tony rapped on the doorframe as she took up another piece of foolscap. He waited for her to acknowledge him with a head bob then stepped in.

  “Good morning, Mother. I see someone has been busy,” he announced, glancing to her left.

  “Yes, and this is the last one. As I mentioned last night I’m keeping the number limited, equally divided between young ladies and gentlemen.”

  “Mother, I do hope none of those we saw last night are being invited? And speaking of that, I have a question.”

  “No, Son. I’ve made sure only those of good ton will receive a request to join us. Now as to your question I believe I know what it is. Lady Iris will be attending as well so Lady Chelsea will have a proper chaperone,” she declared.

  Now he knew at least one of the topics the two ladies had been discussing last eve while he and Chelsea strolled about the terrace under their stern watch. He wagered another was who to invite.

  “Will we still be leaving tomorrow? Also, when will everyone be arriving?”

  “I believe it would behoove us to depart as planned. The countess and Lady Chelsea will be joining us on the journey in our carriage. This way the earl, once he finishes with Parliament, may easily join us. As for when the others join us, that will be at the end of this week,” she stated.

  Hearing Chelsea would be with him on the day-long drive made him happy, and he could feel the corners of his mouth curl into a smile. What displeased him was that it sounded like the house party was going to be a month in length. He had been hoping it would only be a week, at most.

  Considering when they were leaving and when the guests were scheduled to arrive, Tony decided it wasn’t necessary to post a note to his senior staff. There should be plenty of time to make sure the pavilion by the lake was readied along with the gazebo. As for most of the gentler activities, the two mothers could handle that while he concentrated on events more suited to the men.