Duke of Daring
Date: 2020-01-07 00:00:00+00:00
Description: He's known as the Duke of Daring…is she brave enough to dare him right back? The Duke of Darlington is on a mission. He needs to protect his secret gaming hell from a group of debutantes who've stumbled upon his covert business. The problem… Miss Minerva Chase is not the average lady. From the moment his compatriots assign Daring to keep watch over the fiery redhead, she begins stirring trouble. Not only is her tongue sharper than any sword he's faced but her lips are achingly soft while she tosses barb after barb in his direction. He'd like to throttle her, or kiss her, or perhaps protect the

SEEDS OF LOVE

TAMMY ANDRESEN

COPYRIGHT

This is a work of fiction.  Names, characters, organizations, places, events, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Seeds of Love Copyright © 2016 Tammy Andresen

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the express written permission of the publisher.

Published by Tammy Andresen

Cover art by Tammy Andresen

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER ONE

New York, 1827

Regina Lafayette stood near the bustling docks of New York City trying not to tap her foot. Her father and her fiancé, Obediah Stillwell, had insisted she come. Not one to make waves, Regina had complied.

Obediah’s second cousin, once removed, was traveling from South Carolina to New York to meet her. Apparently this cousin had also made Obediah her sole heir, having no children of her own.

Therefore, it was important that Regina make a good impression. Her father had built a fortune on his mother’s inheritance, and he wanted Obediah to do the same. He had handpicked her husband because he was the most promising business mind her father had ever seen. Or so he told Regina often. Unfortunately, that promising mind came at great expense to his personality.

At least in Regina’s opinion. Her father didn’t see it that way. He said she would grow to love him over time and he would keep her well cared for.  Her father wanted her to marry a man like himself. Thomas Lafayette was a self-made man who had become one of the most powerful people in the country. He felt Obediah had the potential to do the same. In her heart, Regina didn’t believe it. Obediah would never command the respect that came so easily to the patriarch of her family.

There was no arguing with her father and so Regina had begrudgingly gone along with the engagement. But last week, Obediah had placed his thin, sniveling lips on hers and she knew in that moment that she would never grow to love him.

While she had a small inheritance of her own, set aside by her mother, to defy her father would surely mean that he would cut her loose. She would be left to fend for herself. And Regina had no idea how to do that.

And so she found herself standing next to tall, awkwardly thin Obediah as he wiped his sniffling nose and waited for his cousin.

A ship had docked to their left and Regina watched with amusement as sailors began to unload their goods. They called to each other and they bent and lifted and stretched. They did the physical labor with ease and she found herself transfixed. Regina opened her fan and began to flick it back and forth across her now heated skin.

A man stepped onto the deck, tall and straight. His chocolate brown hair glistening in the sun. His broad shoulders flexed as he crossed his arms over his chest and, even from this distance, she could see the flash of white teeth as he smiled. Regina fanned faster.

“Regina, would you stop with that infernal fan.” Obediah’s exasperated voice snapped her out of her reverie.

She sent a glare his way. He was perpetually cold, even as the warm spring sun burned the last of winter away.

“Don’t look at me so. You’re much prettier when you smile and look demure as a lady should.” Obediah was clearly on edge. He did not normally talk to her like this in front of her father. Their private conversations were a different story.

Regina stole a quick glance at the patriarch of her family and saw him assessing Obediah silently.

Without a word of response, Regina turned back to watch the sailors. She did not care one wit if he found her pretty. Then, she began fanning herself again. This small act of defiance was unusual for Regina, but Obediah was driving her to distraction.

“Look,” Obediah called. “My cousin’s ship unloads. She will have ridden first class and so should emerge shortly.”

Regina rolled her eyes. Obediah was constantly pointing out these types of things. She will have ridden first class. It didn’t need to be said. She turned her attention toward the boat as a group of sailors walked by them.

Several stared at her as they passed and Regina felt her cheeks pinken. She should be used to it by now. Men often looked at her so, but it still unnerved her.

She attempted to ignore it as Obediah grabbed her arm and pointed down the dock. A short, round woman was approaching them, walking while carrying no less than four dogs. She couldn’t have looked any more opposite from Obediah and Regina felt her eyebrows raise near to her hair. This could not be her fiancé’s cousin.

But it was. The woman approached them giving Obediah a large smile. “My dearest, you look robust as ever,” she proclaimed, wrapping the thin man in a beefy hug, dogs and all.

Regina tried to keep her eyebrows down. It wouldn’t do to be rude. She pasted a polite smile on her face as she turned toward Cousin Margaret Stillwell. “How do you do?”

“This little wisp of a thing is your fiancé?” Margaret’s eyebrows drew together as she looked at her. “Can she even bear you children?”

Regina’s eyes bulged in her head. Margaret was a spinster herself and had never had children so her comment might have been comical if it wasn’t so offensive. She wondered briefly if Obediah would end the engagement if Margaret didn’t approve. The thought brought about a genuine smile as she looked at the other woman.

“I can assure you, Mrs. Stillwell, I am the same size as my mother and she successfully delivered three children.” She would have liked to add that since the other woman had never married or had children, she might not understand what actually made for good childbearing. But Regina would never be so rude, so she kept these thoughts to herself.

“All girls, I hear.” The other woman frowned and turned back to her cousin. One of the dogs yanked out of Margaret’s hands as she moved her large frame and ran straight under Regina’s skirt.

Regina tried to move out of the way, but that only frightened the dog who yelped and jumped deeper into her petticoats. Regina spun around to see where the animal was, but it only became more entangled in her skirts. As she leaned over and free the animal, it crashed into her legs, knocking her off balance. Flailing her arms, she tried to regain her posture but she could feel herself falling.

In a sickening slow motion, she was going backward. Her arms reached out to thin air when suddenly her back met a solid form. She wasn’t even close to the ground and her mind frantically searched for the reason she was still partially upright, then she registered two strong arms wrapped around her. They were firm, muscular, and tan. Slowly she tilted her head back where she met the warm brown eyes of the man she had seen minutes before on the deck of the other ship. His full lips were curled into a half smile that only accentuated his strong jaw, stubbled with a day’s growth. Regina had the most curious urge to run her hand along it.

Her back was pressed against his chest. She had never felt more secure in her life. Giving out a chuckle, their eyes met. His low rumbling voice washed over her, “Are you all right, miss?”

Regina felt her cheeks flame with color. She had just been leaning there staring at him. How much time had passed? “Of, of c-course. Thank you, I am so terribly sorry.” She began desperately trying to straighten but he gave her a tiny squeeze.

“Allow me.” He tilted her fully upright and slowly released her from his arms. Then he bent down and shook out her skirt. His face was deliciously close to her stomach and she had the urge to place her hands on his broad shoulders. Maybe even press close to him.

He removed the dog from her tangle of petticoats and then handed it back to Cousin Margaret who gave a humph in response.

Her father stepped next to her and held out his hand. “Thomas Lafayette. Pleased to make your acquaintance. Thank you for aiding my daughter.”

“James Carter. Happy to be of assistance. Miss Lafayette, I presume?” His eyes met hers again.

She curtseyed and gave him a blushing smile. The memory of his strong arms had heat spreading through her body again. “Thank you again, Mr. Carter.”

“That is a fine ship you have, Mr. Carter. May I ask where you purchased it?”

“You may, sir. I built it myself. I’ve started my own company. This ship is my own but four more like it have been purchased recently. I am escorting them to their new owner.”

James’ face glowed with pride and her father looked intently at the other man. He purchased ships often; it was part of the shipping business where he’d made his fortune, but he must really like the look of this vessel. Regina could feel her father’s intensity.

“Mr. Carter you must join us this evening as a token of our appreciation.”

James’ eyes flicked to her briefly. Then he nodded and shook hands with her father again. “I would be delighted.”

Her father gave him their address as Obediah stepped up next to her. His hand came possessively to her waist. He bent down and whispered in her ear, “That was a terribly clumsy thing to do. You must watch yourself, Regina.”

She did not respond but she saw both her father’s and James’ eyes flick towards them.

“Until tonight,” her father said. He reached for her elbow and turned them both toward their carriage. Obediah and his cousin fell in line behind them.

Regina was glad for the momentary respite from Obediah’s company as she tucked her hand in her father’s elbow. “I think spring is my favorite season, Papa. It is always full of such hope.”

“I agree, Regina. In spring the possibilities are endless.”

James Carter watched Regina Lafayette walk away. Dear Lord, he was in trouble. Never in his life had he been so instantly attracted to a woman. She was utter perfection. She had a mass of honey blonde hair that was artfully pinned up. But a strand had tickled his nose as he caught her and its soft caress made him long to unpin it and tangle his hands in those tresses. Large blue eyes danced with every emotion that crossed her beautiful face. They were the color of the sea during a storm and tilted ever so slightly at the corners making them stunningly beautiful. Finally, her soft, full pink lips had smiled so deliciously. Everything about her face, turned up to his, had set him on fire.

Her dress had highlighted every asset she had while being the perfect example of decorum. His hands could have easily spanned her tiny waist.

But as much as he wanted her, he had to keep his distance. First, he knew the Lafayettes. They were the aristocrats of America. Second, her father was interested in his ships. He knew that. And he wanted this contract. He would have to keep his hands and his eyes to himself tonight at dinner.

Besides, the other man was most likely her intended. He had heard him chastise her about clumsiness. His fingers clenched into a fist. They itched to land on the other man’s hawkish nose. In addition to the fact that it had completely been the dog’s fault, a woman like Miss Lafayette should be worshiped. That man was a fool.

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER TWO

Regina sat at dinner, gritting her teeth. First of all, her younger sister, Clarissa, was making not-so-subtle eyes at James Carter. Secondly, her mother had sat her next to James, so she could not look at him without being completely obvious. Third, she was sitting across from Cousin Margaret, who was feeding her dogs at the table.

Because she couldn’t unclench her teeth, she had largely remained silent for the meal. This normally would have pleased Obediah, but tonight he was shooting glares in her direction.

She sighed to herself; she would have to make conversation with Margaret and the dogs. “Mrs. Stillwater, how was your journey?”

“Dreadful, the ocean is simply awful to travel upon and the weather here is beyond repugnant. How do you stand the cold, Obediah?”

James shifted in his seat and his knee brushed hers. A tingling sensation shot through her leg and she shuddered slightly. It was a delicious feeling but Obediah’s eyes narrowed at her movement.

That was the fourth reason she had remained silent. James’ presence next to her was completely and utterly distracting.

“I count the days until I can move to the South.” Obediah shook as if he were chilled.

“Move to the South?” Obediah had her full attention now. No one had mentioned leaving her family.

“Of course, dear.  You’ll live with me. I’ll need to see how Obediah is using my inheritance to build the next piece of your father’s business. Besides, it is a wife’s duty to go where her husband commands.” Margaret waved her fork, and the dog snapped at the meat as the fork went by.

Regina’s eyes sought her father’s. Was he really going to send her to live with Margaret and Obediah to build a southern shipping hub? It seemed a fate worse than death. His eyes met hers, but his face was an unreadable mask. Next her eyes traveled to her mother. Her look mirrored Regina’s feelings.

“I’ll want full reports, Obediah. And…” Margaret turned to her father, “some additional information on your business would be helpful. Truthfully, I expected your daughter to be of sturdier—”

Her father’s voice cut the conversation short. “We do not discuss these matters at the dinner table.”

Regina’s cheeks flamed with color. She was going to spend every day with this odious woman and her sniveling nephew.

“Before the gentlemen retire, I would request we all join the ladies in the music room. I would love for Regina to play the piano for all of you.” Her father’s voice did not hold a question. It was a command.

Clarissa, who had just turned seventeen, smiled at James. “Is it true you rescued my sister today?” She batted her eyelashes.

“I don’t know if I would call it a rescue, but I did break her fall.”

“How divine,” Clarissa murmured coyly. Regina instantly knew her sister was teasing her. Since Regina was so careful to follow the rules, her sister delighted in being outrageous. Her youngest sister, Macie, smirked and then quickly covered it with her napkin. She was also well aware of Clarissa’s antics.

“Felix will not come out of my room after the incident.” Margaret held her hand to her forehead, looking as though the world had ended. Regina, however, was thankful that one less dog had joined them for dinner.

Regina saw her mother give Clarissa a pointed glare. Regina wanted to hide in her chair. This dinner could not be anymore humiliating.

As dinner finished, James stood and pulled back Regina’s chair as she rose. It was a small gesture, but one of grace. Obediah often lacked them, and Regina appreciated it now.

Her fiancé came around the table and offered her his arm, which she accepted. His touch sent a different type of shiver skittering across her skin. It was not at all pleasant.

Regina smoothed her dress as she went to sit on the bench of the piano. She was rather fond of the gown. It was the perfect shade of blue to match her eyes. It fit her well and seemed to accentuate her tiny waist. It showed just a hint of cleavage, which was all her father would allow.

Her skirts rustled slightly as she settled herself on the piano bench. She flipped through the music as the group chattered and dogs barked. She wanted to pick the perfect piece. Her father often asked her to play at gatherings and she took great joy in it. She glanced at James. Would he like her playing? Finally, she settled on a light popular piece of music that suited the mood of the group. Obediah came to stand next to her. “Shall I turn the pages for you?”

“Please,” she murmured as her fingers perched over the keys. In truth, she barely needed the sheets of music. She knew the piece by heart.

She struck the keys and the music began to flow from her fingers. The happy notes jumped about the room and her sister Clarissa began to clap along. She was always eager for fun.

She couldn’t see James, but she could actually feel him moving closer as her fingers danced over the keys.

Obediah turned the pages, leaning in close to her every time he did. She felt his cheek brush her hair and she resisted the urge to pull away. Her sister stepped next to Obediah. Regina nearly missed a key when Clarissa’s hand rested on Obediah’s shoulder. Was Clarissa being outrageous again?

As the song began to crescendo, Margaret’s dogs started an ungodly howl. Whether they enjoyed the music or not, Regina couldn’t say, but their racket nearly drowned out the piano.

Halfheartedly, Regina finished the piece. The group clapped in a distracted manner; everyone was shooting curious glances at Margaret. The other woman hadn’t said a word.

Finally noticing the glances, Margaret cleared her throat. “They can’t abide the music, I don’t have any in my house.”

Regina stared at the woman. She absolutely could not live in a house without music. “Surely, you have a piano?”

“No, I do not.” Margaret stood and crossed the room to pour herself a glass of wine. The dogs followed.

Regina looked over to her mother and father. She needed to speak with them. Despair was rising inside of her. She simply could not marry Obediah. Neither parent made eye contact, their eyes were on Margaret, who had poured herself a liberal glass of wine.

Even Obediah was looking at Margaret. “Surely we can get Regina a piano while she lives at the house.”

Regina turned to her intended, slightly amazed. It was the first time he had spoken up on her behalf.

“I don’t think so,” she took a swig of her wine. “As I said, the dogs can’t abide it.”

Regina’s mouth hung open. It was as if this woman was attempting to make her as miserable as possible.

Obediah did not respond and Regina felt her shoulders slump. Any hope she had for the future was dashed in that moment. Obediah wouldn’t even argue this simple matter on her behalf.

She stood from the piano, playing anymore seemed pointless. The men also rose to retire to the study.

James nodded to Regina, “It was a pleasure, Miss Lafayette.”

“Thank you again for your help today.” She gave him a small curtsey and then with a smile, he turned and left the room.

Margaret sat down with her wine, allowing one of the dogs to drink from her goblet. The animal splashed red liquid over the white settee Margaret was sitting on and Regina could see her mother stiffen.

“Should we get the dog a bowl?” her mother suggested. Clarissa stifled a giggle while Macie rolled her eyes. A bowl of wine for a dog was ridiculous.

“No, but thank you. He never drinks from bowls and besides, that would be far too much wine for him.” The dog continued lapping away.

After an hour spent in a similar fashion, Regina excused herself. She was exhausted and she wasn’t sure she could hold her tongue another second. She left the music room and started down the hall when she heard the soft click of a door.

She turned to see James coming down the hall. She froze, unsure of what to do. Her parents would not approve of them conversing alone but it was by pure chance.

He smiled as he caught sight of her. “Hello again.”

“Hello,” a blush was already creeping up her cheeks. “How was the meeting with Papa?”

“Very good, he is interested in buying my ships.” His grin spread from ear to ear. It only made him more handsome.

“How exciting for you.” She returned his smile.

He stepped near to her. “It is very kind of you to ask after me when your evening seemed rather tedious.”

She looked down at her feet. “It was fine—” she stopped as his finger gently touched her chin, tilting her face up to look at him. Her breath caught. His warm brown eyes were liquid pools of compassion.

“You can tell me. No one will know if you say to me how you really feel.” His hand came to her waist as he spoke, his other hand still tilting her chin.

She didn’t mean to, but her fingers reached up to brush his now smooth jaw. She remembered the stubble it had carried this morning. She had liked it. That had never occurred to her before today. “It was dreadful. Not just because of what happened tonight but because of the promise it holds for what is to come. Ten thousand nights like this one.” Her voice was a whisper.

His hand slid up her chin, his fingers skimming along her skin until it cupped her face. “What shall you do about it?” Shivers of pleasure raced along her skin. No man had ever touched her like this and if they had, she was absolutely certain it wouldn’t have felt this good.

She shook her head. “I don’t know what to do. My father will disown me if I disobey him.”

“Regina,” he leaned down and whispered close to her ear. “In all my life, I have never met a woman more beautiful than you.”

She could barely breathe and her eyes searched his to see if James was telling the truth. His stared unblinking back.

“There is no option that isn’t open to a woman such as yourself.”

“What do you mean?” Her hands rested on his chest. She almost pulled them back; it was so daring. Their light embrace, incredibly intimate.

He settled her a little closer. “I think you must answer that for yourself but when you do, I hope I will be the first person you tell.” His cheek brushed the top of her head.

She breathed in his scent, so masculine and clean. “I still don’t understand.”

He gave her waist a squeeze and then slowly stepped back. “I hope you will. Goodnight, Regina.” He turned to leave.

“I have one more question,” she called softly. He turned back to her. “If you will actually answer it.”

He chuckled, returning to her. “Fair enough. Ask and I will answer.”

Her hand came to her hip, her chin tilted up. She could feel his strength and there was something in him that made her feel treasured. It brought out a braveness in her she had never felt before. “I have not even known you a day. Why does it feel so comfortable to have you touch me?” Her hands came to her cheeks. It was an embarrassing question.

He stepped back to her. His hands came around her waist again pulling her close. Dropping his head close to her ear one more time he whispered hurriedly, “I should tell you that it is because I saved you. That I have touched you already. Your father could mean a great deal to my business and I should stay away from you but I will tell you the truth. We are drawn to each other.”

As soon as he said the words, Regina felt their truth. She closed her eyes and pictured being married to a man like James. Being held in strong arms. Cherished and treasured rather than what she felt with Obediah.

“I wish…” she let her words trail off. She couldn’t say it because she couldn’t marry James. The decision had already been made.

He sighed and stepped back, but the back of his fingers trailed across her cheek. “Find me when you are willing to finish that sentence.” Then he turned and left.

Regina stood there and watched him walk away. She remained long after the door had closed and he was gone.

What options did she have? Did any of them include him? Regina was the oldest daughter and had always done what the family asked of her but she wondered if she could really marry Obediah. What woud happen if she didn’t? Would she ever see her family again? Well, Obediah wanted to move her to Virginia where she was unlikely to see them anyway.

Regina started up the stairs and headed to her room. Her maid removed her gown and unpinned her hair.

“Will there be anything else, miss?”

“No, thank you. Good night, Mabel.”  Regina sat at her dressing table. She put her hair in a simple braid and looked at her reflection. She turned her face from side to side, assessing her appearance.

James had called her beautiful. Actually, he had said she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. She hadn’t really paid attention, but she supposed she was pleasing to look at. He was certainly handsome. He sent her heart racing every time she looked at him.

Her mother stepped into the room. “Regina,” the other woman’s voice held worry.

Regina stood and crossed the room. Her mother held her arms out to her and she stepped into them. “Oh, Mama.”

“I know.” They held each other.

“What is to be done about it now?” Regina’s voice caught as she spoke.

“You aren’t married yet. The announcements haven’t even gone out. We will fix this. We have to.”

“Oh Mother, please. I beg you. I can’t love Obediah. I don’t even like him.” Regina felt tears prick her eyes.

“I know. I don’t think there is a less lovable man in the whole of the country.” Her mother shook her head.

“But Papa,” Regina started but paused as her father walked into the room.

“What is wrong with the two of you?” His eyes traveled up and down the two of them embracing.

“We were discussing Obediah and his dear cousin, Margaret.” Her mother straightened her shoulders.

“What about them?” He straightened as well. Battle lines were being drawn. Regina’s parents loved each other, but they could disagree terribly. Usually, Regina was the peacemaker.

“They are odious. And Obediah is even worse with her here. And he plans to move our daughter in with them both. It can’t be done.”

“It has to be done. Contracts are being signed. Agreements have been made.”

“Our daughter is not a business deal. She is a person and her happiness matters.”

“I have given my word, I won’t go back on it.” Her father’s voice was rising.

“You will. My daughter will not marry that man.” Her mother was now nose to nose with her father.

“It is my right to arrange a match for my daughter.”

“It was my father’s right as well. But that didn’t stop me from marrying you instead. He was wrong. I was right. Look at the life you have built for us.”

“And I wish to continue that life for us through this match.”

“Obediah will never be what you are, no matter how smart he his. He won’t even stand up to his cousin, who now wants to look at your books. Don’t think I didn’t catch that. He will never sit atop a great empire. Once you are gone, it will crumble in his hands.”

Her father threw up his hands and stomped out of the room. Regina’s mother followed, continuing her tirade. Regina realized that her hands were clutching her nightgown at her neck. She slowly relaxed them. Was this one of the options James had talked about? Somehow, she didn’t think so.

He had said she was beautiful. She knew her family was wealthy. But without her father’s approval, her wealth didn’t mean much. She had breeding. Her maiden name would lend a man credibility.

She had love to give as well. James’ face rose in her mind. The feel of his strong arms around her.

Was he one of the options? That made her smile and she realized it was the first real smile she could remember in weeks.

He had said that he should be the first one she told. While she couldn’t imagine telling her father all of this she could picture being held in James’ arms in vivid detail. Was that enough for her to defy her father’s wishes?

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER THREE

Regina hurried down to breakfast the next morning, anxious to hear what decision her parents had made. Her skirts billowed behind her as she rounded the corner to the dining room. She stopped abruptly at the sight of Obediah and her father deep in conversation. Her mother sat stiffly at the other end of the table.

Her mother had lost the discussion, that much was obvious. Regina’s shoulders slumped. Obediah stood and came around the table. “Stand up straight, Regina. You are far prettier when you don’t slouch.”

“Good morning, Obediah. It is always a pleasure.” She walked past him to take her seat at the table. She glanced at her father, who was staring absently at her.

Regina picked at her food as her father and Obediah reviewed the prospective costs of their South Carolina-based business.

Clarissa flounced into the room and grinned at Obediah as she took her seat. “Are you two talking about business again?” She pouted her lips as she heaped food onto her plate.

Regina watched in fascination as Obediah pushed the papers away from him and smiled at her sister. “Too true.”

Regina cocked an eyebrow. Had she said that, Obediah would have surely chastised her for interrupting. Or he would have said she didn’t understand the importance of what they were doing.

She took a few more bites of her food. Perhaps Obediah was as unhappy marrying her as she was him. There must be another way.

“Regina, let’s go shopping this morning. Shall we?” Her mother gave her a stiff smile.

“Of course,” she replied. Time away from the house would help clear her head.

“Oh I want to come too,” Clarissa called from her chair.

“Not today, dear,” her mother stated but her father’s sharp eyes rose from the paper he was looking at.

“We’ll leave after tea. If you’ll excuse me, I have some correspondence to attend to.” Her mother rose from the table.

Regina nodded. She took a final bite of her food and then she too stood to leave the table.

“Regina, I want to talk to you later,” her father called as she parted.

“Yes, Papa.” Regina sighed. Those were never fun conversations.

Two hours later, she and her mother stopped for a bite to eat after two hours of trying on dresses in stores. It wasn’t that Regina didn’t like to look pretty. She did. She just normally found staring at endless bolts of fabric rather tedious. But it hadn’t been like that today. Today she had pondered how each matched her eyes or the color of her skin. Did it complement her hair? Would James Carter think it attractive on her?

She blushed as tea and cakes arrived for her and her mother. She must stop thinking about him. Her father wouldn’t bend and she just couldn’t go against his wishes.

As if he materialized from her mind, Regina looked up to see James stride through the door. He looked so handsome and strong. Several ladies smiled at him as he passed and Regina felt niggles of jealousy rise in her chest. She shook her head. She couldn’t think like that. James was not hers.

His eyes caught hers and he approached their table. Regina found herself breathing rapidly. As he reached the table, her mother stood in greeting and she followed suit.

“Lovely to see you, ladies.” He smiled at both of them, his eyes lingering on Regina. She blushed in response.

“Please join us,” her mother offered.

Regina’s eyebrows went up. Her mother didn’t seem at all surprised to see James.

“Thank you, Mrs. Lafayette.” He took the empty chair, and everyone sat.

“What will you do while you stay in town?” her mother asked.

“I will conduct business as needed and then return to Maine.”

“How long will that be?”

“Perhaps a week.” He shrugged.

“That soon.” Regina spoke before she could hold it in and she clamped her lips together. It was unlike her to speak so rashly.

He gave her a warm look. “My business does best when I am there to run it.”

“Of course.”

“If you are not leaving till next week, you must join us at Senator Graham’s ball tomorrow night. There will be lots of perspective clients for you and I know my family would love to have you in attendance.”

“Oh, I couldn’t—“ he started.

“Don’t be silly. You will be my personal guest. The senator won’t mind at all.” Her mother gave James a bright smile. “Come to the house by six and we shall all travel together.”

James nodded and Regina’s insides did a funny flop. Would he ask her to dance? She imagined what it would be like to be held in his arms on the dance floor.

James’ voice snapped her out of her daydream, “Perhaps I will see you later this afternoon.”

“What?” Regina looked blankly at him. She had clearly missed some of the conversation.

“I am meeting with your father today.” He gave her a patient smile.

“Perhaps,” she whispered a slight flush staining her cheeks. She did not normally see her father’s business guests but somehow she would find a way to see James later today.

His knee gently brushed against her own.  Jitters skittered all over her skin. Her mother cleared her throat. “Do you like Maine, Mr. Carter?”

“Very much. We live just south of Portland, so not too far from the city. But we are right on the ocean. The house is just on a bay and we have an amazing view of the water.”

“It sounds lovely.” Regina beamed. She had always loved their trips to the water. They were some of her favorite times. While she enjoyed New York, she had always preferred the quiet of the country.

“You like the ocean?” His gaze was intent upon her.

“Very much. Sometimes, the only sound you hear is the rushing of the waves. It drowns out every noise and then it is just you and your thoughts.” Regina bit her lip. “But I don’t need to tell you about the ocean.”

His gaze was unwavering. “Your voice, your thoughts are unique. I have felt that way about the ocean too but never expressed it so eloquently. Thank you for sharing.”

She gave a single nod, and as she looked up, she caught her mother smiling softly. “Regina has always been happier with a quieter life. Much as I will miss her in New York, I know she will enjoy being out of the city.”

“And down in South Carolina?” James added leaning back in his chair.

“That remains to be seen.”

Regina nearly choked on her cake. To be so obvious was not usually her mother’s way.

It was not lost on James either. His eyebrows rose but he did not comment. Instead, he pushed back his chair. “Ladies, this was a wonderful treat, but if you will excuse me, I have a meeting I must attend before I travel to your home. But, perhaps I will see you later.”

They stood as he stood and Regina watched his broad back as it headed for the door. Suddenly, it occurred to her that James had ordered nothing. “How curious. He came into the restaurant but had nothing to eat or drink. Why was he here?”

“Curious,” her mother repeated and sat down to eat her cake.

Three hours later, Regina lurked in the music room. There was no other word for it. She had tried to play a few times. She couldn’t concentrate. She had tried standing by the door to watch her father’s study, but it felt strange. She had opened a book but snapped it closed again.

James had been in her father’s study for the better part of an hour. Her hands fluttered to her chest as she wondered how much longer until he came out. She turned back to the window when she heard the door to her father’s study open.

She raced to the entrance of the music room, peeking her head out. Her father faced away from her but James was looking in her direction and their eyes locked for a split second before he turned his focus back on her father.

“I am looking forward to doing more business with you.” Her father reached out to shake James’ hand.

“As am I,” James’ masculine rumble sent excitement racing through her.

“I trust you can see yourself out.” Her father turned back into his study as James headed for the door.

Regina let out a breath of disappointment. But as her father’s door closed she simultaneously stepped from the music room as James turned back around.

Regina gave him a glowing smile as he approached and he quickly moved down the hall. His hand came to her back and he ushered her back into the privacy of the music room.

James returned her smile and his other arm came around her waist. His face dropped so that it was next to her ear. “Perhaps?”

She gave a soft giggle, not wanting to be heard. Her hands rested on his chest. She wanted to slip them over his broad shoulders and around his neck, but she didn’t dare be that bold. “I was in front of my mother. I didn’t want to be too obvious. I should have stayed away, I just…” she stopped talking, afraid to reveal too much.

“I keep telling myself the same thing.” His jaw rubbed her cheek. The feel of his rougher skin against her smoothness sent shivers racing down her spine.

“What do we do?” She leaned back to look in his eyes. As her sea blue orbs met his brown ones, she realized her mistake. The warmth she found in them drew her in like not even his touch had done. She was mesmerized.

“That depends. If you plan to marry Mr. Stillwater, then there is nothing to be done.”

“Stillwell, his name is Stillwell.”

James cocked an eyebrow. “He seems like still water to me. But that wasn’t the question. Will you marry Stillwell?”

“I don’t know. No, I would rather die than marry him but to disobey my father—” She stopped, taking a breath. “What if I don’t marry him? What would you do?”

He looked at her for a long time, scanning her face. Regina realized she was holding her breath. Finally he spoke, “I would make you my wife.”

A gasp escaped her, “But your ships. Your business!”

“Some things are worth the risk.”

Regina closed her eyes. . She took the easy path. The path that caused the least trouble. The pad of his thumb brushed her lips. She shivered again. “Oh,” she breathed.

“Regina, you have to decide if you can take the risk.”

“I’ve never been very good at that. Besides, how do I know you mean what you say. We’ve only known each other a few days and…”

“How do you feel about me?”

Her eyes snapped back open and met his again. She wanted to lean up and place her lips on his but to do so would be terribly bold and somehow it was a commitment that she wasn’t sure she could make. “I’ve never let a man hold me the way I let you.”

His lips turned up a fraction of an inch. “Well, that admission is a start.” His hands slid away from her back. He stepped away from her.

Regina knew she had said the wrong thing, or perhaps she just hadn’t said enough. “Please, I…” she trailed off again.

His hand reached up and touched her cheek. “It’s all right. I have only known you for a short while and yet I already know that you like to go with the grain and not against it. I will try not to push too hard but our time is limited.” His hand left her cheek and then he turned and left the room.

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER FOUR

Regina spent the better part of the next day thinking about Obediah, James, her father, but mostly she thought about what she wanted from this life. James was a risk. He was handsome and young and already talking of marriage. Her Grandmother Lafayette would have told her to run away from such a man. But her heart told her that he was true. And her mind told her to take the risk while she had the chance. She might never have the opportunity again.

That night she dressed carefully. She picked a pale blue organza silk gown that fit her perfectly. It came just off her shoulders and showed more plump cleavage than she usually allowed. It also brought out the blue of her eyes and the rosiness of her skin. Her hair was pulled loosely back and twisted into an elaborate design with some tendrils falling artfully around her face.

As she started down the stairs, she felt beautiful. Her father raised his eyebrows at her. “When did you get that dress?”

“I bought it for her.” Her mother linked her arm with Regina’s as she reached the bottom step.

Her father’s mouth pinched. Normally Regina would have cowed to her father’s wishes but tonight she stood straighter and kept walking.

Her sisters came down the steps laughing and chattering. “Ooh Regina, your dress,” Clarissa breathed. Macie bounced in agreement.

“I forgot to mention, Mr. Carter will be joining us this evening,” her mother smiled innocently at her father as she spoke.

“We do not have the carriage—”

“I have the seven-person carriage waiting for us.”

“Anna—” her father started.

“It’s done now.” Her mother turned away.

Regina was aware that her mother had manufactured this chance, and she intended to take full advantage of it. She would need all of her courage tonight.

The butler showed Obediah and James in. The two men could not look more different. It wasn’t just that James was more handsome and masculine, it was that he looked at her with such warmth. Obediah’s eyes were always so cold.

“Wonderful to see you both.” Her mother reached her hands out to each man. Regina tilted her head slightly. She had thought her mother had chosen James over Obediah but she welcomed them both warmly.

“Shall we?” Mr. Lafayette gestured toward the door.

Regina passed by her parents. She heard her father say to her mother, “It doesn’t matter to me that you invited him, he is part of the plan too.”

“Your plans will backfire, God willing. You can’t mandate love.”

“What does love have to do with anything?”

“My husband, you are being foolish and pigheaded. Your plans will still work while making your daughters happy. Try to think of someone other than yourself.” Her mother turned and marched out the door in front of the others.

Regina walked toward Obediah and James. Both smiled in greeting, both extended their hand to her. Her smile faltered for a split second. To choose one over the other was a clear statement. To choose neither was as well. It told them both she hadn’t chosen her path yet.

Her father came up behind her, placing his hand at her back. “You look lovely, as always, my daughter.”

“Thank you, Papa.” As she spoke, Clarissa sailed past her, taking Obediah’s arm.

“Walk me out,” Clarissa beamed at Obediah.

He smiled back, a genuine smile without any reservation. It brightened his entire face. The pair turned and followed Regina’s mother out the door. As Regina watched them, it crossed her mind that they suited each other.

Macie came to her father’s other side. She was fifteen yet and blushed when she looked at James. “Would you escort me to the carriage, Papa?”

“Of course, my sweet.” He held out his arm to his third daughter.

“I will walk with James then Papa, to keep him company.” Regina gave her a father a weak smile and he grimaced in response. His look said that he knew exactly what she was about. But then he turned and headed for the door.

Regina turned to James. “Hello.”

“Hello,” his voice was cooler than normal but he held out his elbow to her.

She slipped her hand through it. His arm was like a hard, warm band of muscle. She turned toward him and caught his scent, clean and masculine. She wanted to say something that told him of her feelings but she was afraid. “Lovely evening,” was all she could get to come out.

“It is,” he replied blandly.

“James, I—” Regina knew that should have chosen James when he had extended his hand. She had missed her opportunity. Biting her lip, she looked up into his eyes.

“It’s all right Regina.” He patted her hand, tucked into his sleeve.

***

James took a deep breath. With her hand tucked under his arm and her face turned up to his, he wanted so much to believe that she could be his. But it was a fool’s dream.

She was beautiful and sensitive and easygoing. He was drawn to those traits in her but they were also the parts that kept her from defying her father. The parts that would make her a lovely wife for him made it nearly impossible for her to become his bride.

“But you’re upset, I can see it.” Her face pinched with worry and he realized his own brow must be wrinkled. He relaxed his features to put her at ease.

“I’m not upset, Regina. Don’t worry on my account.” He gave her a reassuring smile. She looked back at him skeptically but there was no time to say any more; they had reached the carriage.

Regina’s mother sat alone on one bench while the other four members had piled on the other bench. James handed Regina up and then climbed in to sit next to her.

Clarissa and Obediah sat with their heads together while Mr. Lafayette and Macie talked quietly. Regina’s mother gave them a glowing smile. “What a lovely spring evening, isn’t it?”

“Yes, Mama. It is,” Regina replied.

“The promise of summer brings such hope. Anything is possible don’t you think?”

“I do, Mama.” Regina looked at James. It was possible. And if she wanted it, she would have to make it happen. She knew exactly what to do tonight. She would set the wheels in motion.

They arrived at the party and slowly made their way through the double doors. Everyone was arriving and progress was slow. Regina, however did not mind at all. Her hand was tucked into James’ arm and her hip brushed his.

“Do you like parties or dancing, Mr. Carter?” Regina asked, hoping he would ask her to dance.

“I like them both fine but tonight is about my business. I must use this opportunity to secure more contracts if I am to build a successful ship building company.” He patted her hand. “Your mother did me a great service tonight.”

“Of course,” Regina nodded, a little disappointed. Her plan required time with James.

As they stepped inside, her father called James over to a group of men, he said his goodbyes and then left to speak with them.

Regina took a deep breath. Obediah stepped up next to her. “Would you do me the honor of the first dance?”

“That would be lovely.” She attempted to mask her disappointment as she took Obediah’s hand.

Three hours later, Regina was worn out from dancing with a parade of men. She had seen neither James nor Obediah in hours. While she cared not about the latter she had desperately wanted to see the former. With that in mind, she set out to find James.

She searched several of the party rooms and then peeked into the library and the study, though hushed voices of men and women had her closing the door again quietly. Finally she stepped out onto the veranda.

She stood, allowing the night air to caress and cool her skin. She had told her mother that she was looking for Clarissa, who had also been gone most of the evening. She would have to head back in soon but she would delay as long as possible. Every eligible man hoped to match with her family. As the oldest sister, she was most likely so they pestered her all evening. She would take advantage of this reprieve for as long as she could.

“Hello,” James’ voice whispered softly behind her.

A smile spread across her entire face. She turned and stepped toward him, snaking her arms around his neck. “Hello.”

His hands came around her waist. He pulled her towards him. “Did you miss me this evening?”

“Very much. Has it been successful?”

“I believe it has.”

“That is wonderful news!” Her fingers dug into his shoulders as she bounced slightly.

“Regina,” he breathed. “Do you know how many women would have been angry with me instead of happy for me? Do you always think of other people’s feelings?” His fingers came up to caress her cheek.

“I hadn’t really thought about it. It is important for you. Why wouldn’t that make me happy?”

“How am I going to make you mine? The very things that make you so stunning, keep you at your family’s side.”

“Kiss me,” her eyes dropped to his mouth as she spoke, her heart fluttering in her chest. She knew once his lips claimed hers that he would claim her very soul, that she would have to defy her father. This was her plan.

Ever so slowly, his head bent down until his lips almost touched hers. Her eyes closed and softly, his mouth met her own. Regina gasped at the feel of it, so soft and exciting.

His lips touched hers again and again. Pulling him closer, Regina met each kiss eagerly until he slanted her lips open and his tongue gently probed into her mouth. Heat raced through her body and Regina attempted to move closer still as their mouths locked together.

His hands roamed up and down her back. His lips broke from her mouth to begin trailing kisses down her neck. “Tell me you are mine, Regina. From the moment your eyes met mine I knew that you were meant to be mine.”

Shivers ran across her skin, “Yes, I am yours. Are you mine?”

“Always.” His lips found hers again.

“What should we do? My mother is trying to reason with my father, it isn’t working.”

“Whatever we do, it has to be your plan, Regina. I can’t suggest you distance your family.”

Regina pulled her lips away from his. He was right. She was running the risk of never speaking to her father again. He was being pigheaded but that was beside the point. It was her decision to make and she had to be decisive and strong. If James was going to be hers, she would have to defy her father for the first time in her life.

“I don’t think I can reason with him. My mother has been trying…” She bit her lip.

“He thinks Obediah is part of the future for your family.”

Regina shook her head, “It’s more than that. Obediah loves Clarissa, he could marry her. But my father won’t listen. He…” she paused. “We will have to run away.” The words sounded strange but she could feel her own resolve.

His knuckles brushed across her cheek. “You are probably right but I would like to try speaking with him first. I don’t want to ruin my relationship with my future father-in-law.”

Regina grinned at his statement.

“Let’s head inside, I haven’t gotten to dance with the most beautiful woman here.” His arm held her waist firm as he moved her back inside towards the dance floor.

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER FIVE

Regina woke up the next morning still dancing. It had been the most wonderful dance of her life. She floated down the stairs and into the dining room.

Her father and her mother sat quietly talking but her mother gave her a large grin as she walked into the room.

“Tell her what we are doing today.” Her mother poked her father.

“You are getting her hopes up.”

“Posh, things will work out as they should. Just tell her.”

“Mr. Carter has invited us along with some other potential customers to go for a sail.”

Regina felt her insides jump. “How wonderful.”

“Papa, did you say we are going sailing?” Clarissa bopped into the room with Macie hot on her heels.

“Yes dear, but we are leaving shortly. It will be brisk on the water so change into something more serviceable.”

The girls sat down to eat. Excitement thrummed through her as she tried to force some food into her stomach. Would James talk to her father today?

An hour later, the Lafayette family stood on the docks. Regina looked up at James’ boat. The name Four Winds was painted on the side. It was a majestic ship and the sight of it sent her pulse racing. James stepped up to the rail and waved down to them. Regina’s heart nearly beat out of her chest. He looked so masculine standing there, his brown hair blowing softly in the breeze.

She waved back, her cheeks filling with color. Suddenly, a woman stepped up next to him. She was attractive and well dressed. She put her hand on his upper arm and he leaned down to hear what she said. Regina could see her rise slightly to speak in his ear.

Jealousy rose like bile in her chest. “Come on Regi, you’ll miss the boat!” Macie called, using her pet name for her sister.

Regina trailed behind them, her excitement having turned to dread. She had kissed him last night, he had said he wanted to marry her, and now he was standing at the rail with another woman.

A hand at her back caused her to turn. Obediah stood behind her. “Why don’t you move a little faster?” He scrunched his face like he was smelling something terrible.

“I will move as I please. Take your hand from my back.” An anger Regina had never allowed to surface before was bubbling over. She couldn’t keep it inside. His hand dropped from her back and he said nothing further. She began stomping up the gangplank to the deck of the ship.

At the top of the plank her family stood waiting, James beside them. The brunette from the rail sauntered up next to him and snaked her hand through his elbow. James gave her a fleeting frown before he turned to say hello. “Thank you all for coming. Miss Lafayette, lovely to see you again.”

She dipped into a brief curtsey without making eye contact. She didn’t want him to see her feelings until she had sorted through them. Wild thoughts were running through her mind. Was this woman the reason she had barely seen him at the party? Was he courting her too? While he had never shown his affection for Regina publicly, he now stood arm and arm with this pretty woman.

“Thank you for having us, Mr. Carter.” Her father’s eyes skimmed over James and this other woman.

James stood a little taller. Regina could feel James’ eyes on her but still refused to make eye contact. “Thank you for coming.”

Another man joined the group. “There you are Abigail.”

“May I introduce Mr. Abbot Worthy. He is visiting from South Carolina with his daughter, Miss Worthy.” James’ face was stiff but his tone was pleasant.

“Pleased to meet you.” Her father shook his hand, introducing all of them. Then he turned back to James. “I must ask for the full tour. The deck of this boat is stunning.”

“Of course. Mr. Worthy, would you care to join us?”

“It would be my pleasure. Abigail, I am sure these fine ladies will keep you company.”

“Yes, Papa.” Her southern drawl sounded like warm honey. She was buxom with glossy dark curls artfully arranged around her porcelain face. Regina hated her.

As the men walked off, Abigail sidled up next to Regina. “My, isn’t he a vision? If I weren’t so cold, I would fan myself.”

“Have you known Mr. Carter long?” Regina tried to keep her tone neutral.

“I just met him last night at the ball.”

Relief flooded Regina’s chest. She gave the woman a sidelong glance. She had never attempted to weedle information out of another person but today was full of firsts. “He is a divine dancer.”

Regina saw the other woman’s face pinch with irritation and Regina ducked her head to hide her smile. They hadn’t danced.

Abigail wasn’t finished. “I suppose I will find out when he joins us tomorrow evening. It is just an intimate gathering but Papa has hired a lovely seven-piece orchestra to play.” Abigail shot her a glowing smile.

“Regina, let us walk about the deck,” her mother called.

Regina began walking and Abigail matched her pace. Teeth gritted, Regina attempted to admire the harbor as they made their way towards the open ocean. Macie trailed behind them but Obediah and Clarissa were nowhere to be seen.

“Did you see how broad his shoulders are and his arms are so very strong. How did he get so strong?”

“He builds ships. I’m sure it builds a man’s physique.”

“How do you know Mr. Carter?”

“Much like you, my father is interested in his ships but he did stop me from falling on the docks. It sounds silly, but it was quite heroic.”

“Oohhh, I think it sounds very heroic.” She bounced a little as she spoke. Regina was barely twenty but Abigail seemed so young to her. Younger even than Clarissa. Some might think Clarissa was youthfully impulsive but Regina knew that it was her sister’s way of getting what she wanted.

“Yes, I suppose it does,” Regina murmured.

“I bet being married to a ship builder would be very romantic.” The other woman bounced on her toes.

“Perhaps. Moving to Maine from the South might be difficult.”

“Oh I would never move. My husband will have to work near my family.” She looked assured of her ability to make this happen. Regina thought she should probably introduce Abigail to Obediah. He’d happily move south.

They tacked out to the open water and then the other sails were unfurled to catch the wind. Regina stepped up to the rail inhaling deeply. Being on the open ocean was exciting. She felt her blood sing as the vessel picked up speed. She looked back to see several of the women, including Abigail, looking a little green.

She gave them a smile of sympathy as the men rejoined them on deck. This time James stepped up next to her, his hand lightly touching her back. She grinned in return.

“You like the sea.”

“I must admit, I have always found it exciting.” She turned her face to the open ocean but she could feel his eyes drinking her in.

Abigail stood next to them both. “I have done a great deal of ocean travel too, I just…” She stopped and a quick glance told Regina that the girl was about to be sick.

“Oh dear,” she took Abigail’s hand and led her away from the group. She pressed her fingers to the other woman’s wrist. “Find something and look at it without looking at anything else.”

“Very well,” Abigail said weakly. Regina closed her own eyes. Why did she insist on helping everyone? Why couldn’t she just leave Abigail to her fate?

“Whatever you do, don’t get sick. You’ll never recover if it happens.”

“I believe you.”

“Breathe slowly and deeply, keep looking at one point.” Regina brushed a curl out of the girl’s face.

“Thank you for your kindness,” Abigail mumbled.

“Everything all right?” James stepped up to them.

“Fine,” Abigail smiled brightly, using her free hand to reach out to James.

Regina cursed under her breath. This woman was a traitor. James' hand came to Regina’s back again. “It was kind of you to help her, Miss Lafayette.”

“Happy to do it.” She looked at James to find him staring back at her. It gave her a great deal of satisfaction until Obediah stepped between them. “How about a stroll around the deck, Regina?”

Her eyebrows arched. Where had he been the past half hour? “Of course.”

He took her arm and tucked it into his elbow. Then he began walking with her towards the opposite end of the boat. She looked back to see Abigail placing her hand in the crook of James’ arm. An irritated sigh escaped her lips.

Obediah glanced at her and then picked up the pace. He steered them away from the crowd. “My cousin has approved our match.”

“I see,” her voice remained neutral though her insides jumped. She resisted the urge to pull away. She didn’t want to get any closer to marrying Obediah.

“I see the way you look at him. I know you don’t love me.” Regina tried to step away from him then, but his hand came down on top of hers, trapping it against his arm. “I understand, but it doesn’t matter. We will be married.”

“And I see the way you look at Clarissa. You could marry my sister and still be part of my family’s business.” Even as she said the words, he shook his head.

“My feelings for your sister are of no consequence. You are the eldest daughter. You will inherit the family business.”

“It will be shared—”

“That is not a risk I am willing to take.” His hand tightened.

“Obediah, you are hurting me.” She tried again to pull away but his hand only tightened causing her to cry out.

“This chance is everything to me. Neither you nor your sister is going to—”

He squeezed harder and pain radiated through her arm. “Obediah, stop!” Her voice grew louder.

“You heard the lady, she told you to let her go.” James walked up to them, clamping his hand on Obediah’s shoulder.

“Obediah, what are you doing?” Clarissa came to stand next him.

“It’s none of your concern. Go back with your—” James must have squeezed because suddenly Obediah freed Regina. She took a step back and bumped into a solid form. She jerked her head around to see the calculating eyes of her father.

“What is going on here?” his voice was low and calm.

“Nothing, Regina and I were simply talking. I—”

Her father held up his hand for Obediah to stop. Then, his eyes looked her up and down. His eyes stopped on her hand she cradled in her other arm and he slowly reached for it, lifting it up for inspection. He neatly removed her glove then turned it to see the angry welts forming on the back of her hand. He gently let the hand go.

“We need to speak, son.” Her father looked at Obediah.

The other man’s shoulders slumped. “I didn’t mean... It was an accident. I only wanted her to listen. She is looking at him when…” Obediah’s head slumped.

“What about me? You were going to marry my sister this entire time? I thought you…” Clarissa’s voice trailed off.

“Obediah, you will accompany us home where we can speak privately. Right now we are looking to purchase some ships.”

Her father tucked her hand into his arms and began to lead her away. “Come Regina, you must see how this boat tacks in the wind. It is remarkable.”

“Yes, Papa,” she murmured as she looked back. Clarissa looked close to tears, Obediah was slumped in defeat, and James was staring intently at her as they walked away.

Once they were out of earshot, her father turned his head toward her. “Is your hand terribly hurt?” His tone was much softer than normal.

“It will be fine.” She bit her lip. She didn’t quite know how to start the conversation she needed to have with her father. “But Obediah…”

Her father gave one quick nod. “I agree. The marriage will not work. It’s not that his feelings are unrequited and yet he expects you to have more feeling for him and he is angry that you don’t. He has grown increasingly hostile. Your mother is going to enjoy a great laugh at my expense. She has been trying to tell me.”

“He isn’t going to take it well. And what about Clarissa?” A light joy filled Regina’s chest despite the worry she held for her sister. Clarissa had truly cared for Obediah and he had publicly snubbed her.

“I will discuss it with Clarissa but my recommendation is that she find another beau. Obediah has proven himself to be callous with her feelings and violent when pushed. What will he do when the pressures of a business begin to bear down on him? I cannot have him taking that out on one of my daughters.”

“I am sorry, Papa. I know you wanted Obediah to be the man who took over for you…” Her father waved his hand and she allowed her voice to trail off. They were approaching her mother and other sister.

“We will finish this conversation when we are alone. We’ve yet to discuss the ship builder.” A nervous flutter beat around her chest. The fact that her father had not called him James or Mr. Carter but the ship builder, did not bode well.

“Where are Clarissa and Obediah?” Her mother asked, eyes narrowing.

“Coming momentarily,” her father gave her mother a meaningful look. “They have a few things to discuss, I suspect.”

Her mother’s eyebrows shot up but she said nothing until Regina’s father joined the other men. Then, she turned to Regina, “Are you still marrying Obediah?”

Regina gave her head a small shake. Her mother smiled brightly. “Well now, what happened?”

“I shall tell you all about it later, but I don’t think Clarissa and Obediah will marry either.” Her mother’s eyes bulged out as Regina spoke.

“Oh dear,” her mother murmured. “We shall need to have the handkerchiefs ready for this evening.”

Regina nodded in agreement, “But Papa wants to speak with me later about ‘the ship builder.’” Her mouth pinched in worry. “It doesn’t sound promising.”

“I will talk to him and see what I can do. Your father is pigheaded and stubborn to the last but he loves you and he comes around to good decisions eventually. Have faith, Regina.” Her mother patted her hand.

Regina did not answer, but something was building inside of her. She didn’t want to wait for her father to come around eventually. She wanted to marry James now. She wanted him to kiss her again and be held in his arms and to know what wives knew. She kept picturing what he might look like without his clothes on and she ached to run her hands along his skin. She took a shaky breath to steady herself.

He must have followed her and her father because she could see him approaching. She tried to compose herself as he stepped next to her. “Are you all right?”

“I’m fine.” His eyes held an intensity and his voice dropped low. “If he hurt you, Regina, I—”

“James, I am fit as a fiddle.”

Abigail stepped up behind James as Regina spoke but he didn’t even glance at the other woman. His eyes held Regina’s.

“It means the world to me that you care,” Regina said, blushing slightly because Abigail might hear.

“Of course, I care. You know how I feel about you.” His hand came up to brush the small of her back. Abigail’s eyes narrowed and her glossy curls bobbed as she rocked on her heels.

“I do, don’t I?” She took a half step closer, dropping her voice so that she wouldn’t be heard by anyone other than him. His masculine scent filled her nostrils. Her arms ached to wrap around him.

“I should like to talk with you tomorrow. May I call on you?” his hand ever so slightly skimmed her back again.

“Of course.” Her eyelashes fluttered.

“We must all have an outing.” Abigail bounced in, moving closer and intruding on the moment. “Surely we could put a party together.”

James turned his head to look at Abigail. Her father stepped up next to her. “I am sure you could arrange something. It would mean a great deal to my little Abbie to have some fun while I am conducting business.” The other man leaned in further and Abigail bounced faster. Regina pasted a smile on her face. Abigail was clearly accustomed to getting her way and her father was pandering to her wants.

James gave a curt nod. “The day after tomorrow, we could meet for a carriage ride. I have a friend who is in town as well.”

James turned to Clarissa, who had finally joined the group, looking slightly puffy in the eyes. “Would you care to join us?”

She tilted her chin up to a defiant angle. “I would be delighted.”

“Excellent. I have a friend, Charles Baker. I will invite him as soon as we reach the docks.”

“Is he handsome?” Abigail asked. It was all Regina could do to keep from rolling her eyes.

James gave his head a small shake. “The ladies seem to think so.”

“It’s settled then.” Abigail bounced until the ship keeled to make a turn back toward the harbor. Then her face turned green.

Regina bit back a smile. A ship builder’s wife couldn’t get seasick.

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER SIX

The carriage ride from the docks was the most painful Regina had ever experienced. Obediah looked as though he might cry. Occasionally she could hear him muttering, “Brought my cousin… Dedicating my life… Isn’t that enough...”

Regina kept her eyes on her lap but she was bursting inside to tell him that it wasn’t enough.  That she would have most likely married him had he shown her even an ounce of kindness. She felt as though she could barely keep the words from tumbling out of her mouth. Regina breathed a sigh of relief when the carriage ride was over.

The family moved into the house and her father ushered Obediah towards his office. The door clicked closed behind them. All four ladies moved to the music room where they could hear the door open again.

In less than five minutes the door flew open, banging into the frame. Not three seconds had passed before Obediah came skidding into the room.

His eyes bulged as he stared at Regina, “You! You have ruined my life.”

The dam inside of Regina broke open. The one she had carefully built to hold back her feeling so that she could make the people around her happy. “By not allowing you to ruin mine and my sister’s? I don’t care what you say. I will never believe you would have been good for us. I would have died a slow death married to you.” Her voice rose with each word and his eyes were big as tea saucers by the time she was done.

“You are right. Our marriage would have been a disaster. I could never have been married to you.” He spit the words.

“That is just fine with me.” She stomped her foot then crossed her arms. She was acting a bit like Abigail but she couldn’t care. It felt so good to vent her frustration.

“That is enough Regina,” her father spoke from the doorway. “Obediah, I hope we will continue to have a good working relationship.”

“If you want us to continue to have a relationship then why—”

Her father’s voice boomed from the doorway. “I will not tolerate cruelness towards my daughter.” Her father stopped speaking. He took a deep breath. “Now if you will excuse us, my family and I have some things to discuss.” Her father’s voice held a finality that few men could argue with.

Obediah gave them all a final glare before he stomped towards the door.

Her father walked into the room and threw himself into a chair. “Are you thinking of marrying him, Clarissa?”

“He didn’t even say goodbye or look at me for that matter. He only cared about Regina.” Her sister sniffed. “No, I have no intention of marrying him.”

“Thank goodness.” Her father sighed.

Her mother cleared her throat. Her father glanced up at her and a small smile touched his lips. “Go ahead, dear. Tell me that you were right all along.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it.” Her mother’s smile was soft. “But now we must discuss Regina’s future.  At nearly twenty, she must marry soon.”

“Are you proposing anyone?”

“James Carter.” Her mother sat a little straighter. So did Regina.

Her father shook his head. “While he knows something about the import and export business, I cannot see him running a great company like this.”

Regina would not sit idly by for this discussion. “I think he can do whatever he sets his mind to but why does he have to take over this business?”

Her father’s eyebrows rose until they nearly touched his hair line. “He can, can he?”

She straightened her shoulders. “Yes. But why do you want him to?”

“Someone has to Regina. I would like to remind you that you have only known Mr. Carter for a few days. How do you know his feeling are genuine? He could just be trying to capture an heiress.”

Regina took a breath. “I just know. But, I will offer up some proof. Did you see him asking any other ladies to dance at last night’s ball?”

Her father gave her a level stare. “No. Only you.”

“He spent the entire night talking to men who might be interested in buying his ships. If he were wooing heiresses he would have spent the night dancing with them. And if he thought my money was the answer to his business then he would have been giving me his attention instead of his ships.”

Her father’s mouth hung slightly ajar. “I must admit, you make a compelling argument. And I have to agree with you. He appears to be a man committed to making a success of himself with his own merits.

“Will you allow him to court me?” Hope fluttered in Regina’s chest.

“I will think on it.”

“Who will court me?” Clarissa pouted. “I am seventeen with no prospects.” Her sister gave a decided sob.

Regina got up and crossed the room to wrap her arms around her sister. Clarissa looked up at her with eyes so like her own. “I am so sorry. I am sure someone exceptional is waiting just around the corner.”

Clarissa gave her a watery smile. “Do you really think so?”

“I do.”

Their father interrupted, “When Mr. Carter comes tomorrow, I would like to speak with him first and then you are both to stay in plain sight. Do you understand me?”

“Yes, Papa,” Regina nodded but her insides jittered with excitement and hope.

Regina paced around all that day and could barely sleep that night. She desperately wanted to see James again.

The next morning she was up with the sun. She spent in inordinate amount of time dressing and admired the lovely grey-blue gown she had finally chosen. It made her blue eyes appear like the sea when storm clouds rolled in, which was fitting since she felt like a storm was brewing inside of her. A nervous energy filled her every move. She was sure she would only rest when she was in James’ arms.

The morning dragged by and Regina paced in the library. She glanced at the large grandfather clock to see that it was just before ten. Calling hours would begin in a few minutes but how long would she have to wait.

At promptly ten o’clock, the front bell chimed. Regina jumped and turned towards the library doors. Her father’s study opened and she watched as he passed down the hall.

“Good day, Mr. Carter,” her father’s voice called smoothly.

“And to you, Mr. Lafayette,” she heard James return.

Regina held her breath. What would her father say?

***

James stared at the man he hoped would be his father-in-law. This meeting was perhaps the most important of his life. He somehow had to convince Mr. Lafayette that Regina should be his wife. He could clearly see where the man was coming from. He had only known Regina for a few days. But holding her in his arms, looking into her eyes, something had shifted inside him. He had fallen in love in that instant.

Mr. Lafayette was likely to be skeptical. His daughter was an heiress while he was a fledgling business owner.

“Son, step into my office. I have a few things I would like to discuss.”

“Of course.” James inclined his head and followed the other man towards his study.

Mr. Lafayette clicked the door closed behind him and directed James to take a seat. James did, though he would have much rather paced around the room. He forced himself to be still. This room was one of the most beautiful he had ever seen. It spoke of power and wealth with its rich perfectly polished mahogany.

The older man seated himself behind his massive desk. James hadn’t noticed before that Regina’s eyes came from her father.

“I would like to get right down to the point and ask what your intentions are towards my daughter.”

“My intention is to marry her, sir.” James cleared his throat.

The other man gave him a long look. “What is it about Regina that has made you decide so quickly?”

James cleared his throat again. He had not anticipated how difficult this would be. “I am not sure what invisible force initially drew me to your daughter but I can tell you that everything about her reaffirms that feeling. She is the kindest, most selfless, beautiful woman I’ve ever met. She brings out in me the need….” He stopped, afraid he was saying too much.

“Go on, son.” Her father gave him a little jerk of his chin.

“The need to protect her and keep her safe. I don’t care about her inheritance. I will provide for her. I will make a success of my business. I just…” He stopped again.

“I understand. And I will consider your offer of marriage. I appreciate your candor. Regina is waiting for you in the library.”

“Thank you, sir.” James stood and turned to leave.

“James,” Mr. Lafayette called. “Whatever happens with Regina, the contract for the boats stands.”

James nodded and opened the door. He closed it behind him and then moved down the hall to the library. Regina stood in the middle of the room with her hands clasped in front of her. She looked terribly nervous. Every line in her body was taut.

She also looked stunning. Her blond hair was pulled loosely from her face elaborately twisted and curled. He would love to see that hair hanging down her back. Her blue eyes pierced his heart while her soft full lips begged to be kissed again. Every time he saw her, he grew more certain that she must be his.

“How did it go?” Her voice was tense and she bit her lip.

“Well, I think. He is considering my offer of marriage.” He stepped close and clasped her hands. She wasn’t wearing gloves and her fingers were so soft to the touch. His thumbs rubbed the back of her hands. “But I told him that I didn’t want your dowry. I meant it. We may have to live simply for a few years.”

“I don’t care about that. I don’t need dresses or parties. I only want—” she looked up into his eyes. He lost himself in that blue gaze. “You,” she finished.

“We will find a way.” He gave her hands a gentle squeeze. “Let’s sit.”

They sat next to each other on the settee. “Tell me about your home in Maine.”

“It will be yours too.” His thumb brushed her cheek. He couldn’t seem to resist touching her. “I already told you we sit on a bay. The house is up on a cliff overlooking the ocean. You can see the water from almost every room.”

Her eyes lit, “Is that where we will live?”

He gave her shoulder a squeeze. “Of course. I’ve only finished constructing the interior of half the house but it will be more than enough room for us. We’ll finish it soon.”

She waved his comment away. “What do you see out the windows that don’t face the ocean?”

He grinned. “The forest.”

She inhaled as if she were breathing fresh air. “I have always preferred that to the city. You can hardly take a breath here some days.”

He laughed, “I agree. My friend, who joins us tomorrow, Charles, has always preferred the city. I could never understand it myself.”

“What does your friend do?”

“Should I be jealous?” He wiggled his eyebrows at her to show he was teasing.

“You know you should not.” She rolled her eyes.

“He’s going to Harvard Business School. But he was my friend and neighbor in Kennebunk.”

“I cannot wait to meet him.”

“It will be wonderful.” He gave her another squeeze. “I have to go Regina. I have much to finish before I leave New York but I will see you tomorrow, my love.”

“Of course.” Regret tinged her face, he could see it. He consoled himself that they would see each other every day soon enough but he hated to leave her. He was torn between spending time with her and proving to her father he could be a success.

“I will be here at eleven o’clock to retrieve you and your sister.” His hands clasped hers as her large eyes searched his. James longed to kiss her lips, to pull her in his lap and tell her everything would be all right. “Don’t worry.”

“I won’t.” She gave him a smile. He knew he shouldn’t but he leaned over and placed a light kiss on her lips. A jolt shot through him, tightening every muscle in his body as her lips responded to the light touch. They clung to his as he slowly pulled away. It took every ounce of his strength not to dip his head back down and taste her lips again.

As he looked into her eyes, he knew without a doubt that he would make Regina Lafayette his own.

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER SEVEN

Regina and Clarissa stood in a room at the top of the stairs. Clarissa had assured her that it was far better to make an entrance and keep the gentlemen waiting.

Shaking her head, Regina did as her sister bade her. Clarissa had always been bolder and more flirtatious than Regina. Except when it came to James. With him she wanted to hurl herself into his arms and forget the consequences.

They heard the front door chime and both girls jumped. “Steady,” Clarissa murmured. Regina looked at her sister. She was lovely. She had been chubbier as a child but somehow, she was transforming into a beautiful woman. “I hope he is handsome.”

Regina laughed. “Me too.” She was glad her sister was not too upset over Obediah.

“James is handsome. My goodness. Do you think Papa will let you marry him?”

Clarissa’s comment was innocent enough but Regina felt her spine straighten. It didn’t matter. She would marry James with or without her father’s permission. Of that she was certain. “We’ll see.”

Clarissa nodded. “Let’s go down now. I can’t stand waiting any longer.” With that she flounced out the door.

Regina wasn’t trying to keep secrets from her sister. But this was between her and James and she wanted to keep it that way.

When Regina reached the top of the stairs, her sister had already begun her descent. Her mother was speaking with their guests. The man next to James was indeed handsome. Dark, nearly black hair and eyes. He was tall and muscular but her eyes found James and then she saw no one else.

She floated down the stairs toward him. He reached out his hand for her to take and she slipped her fingers into his warm grasp. His lips settled on her gloved hand but it still sent shivers racing through her. “Hello,” she managed to breathe.

Next to her, someone cleared his throat. She tore her eyes away from James to see the dark-haired man assessing her with a questioning glint to his eye. “Pleased to meet you. James has told me a great deal about you.”

She gave the man a glowing smile. “Mr. Baker, I presume.”

“Indeed, I am.”

“This is my sister, Clarissa Lafayette.”

He chuckled. “We were just introduced.”

Regina flushed pink. She had been so focused on James, she missed the introduction. “Oh, my apologies…I…”

James was still holding her hand and he gave it a squeeze. “Shall we go? We must pick up Miss Worthy yet. I hope you don’t mind, I have taken the liberty of packing a picnic basket for us.”

“How delightful.” Her mother waved goodbye. “Have fun and be safe.”

“Yes, Mama,” the girls chorused as James tucked her hand into his arm. Mr. Baker did the same with Clarissa and gave her sister a long look before heading for the door. Clarissa blushed under his gaze and Regina raised her eyebrows.

The group settled into the carriage and Regina found it extremely pleasant to be next to James as the carriage bumped along. Clarissa and Charles chattered enthusiastically but Regina was content just to be close to James.

His hand grasped hers. “How do you fare?”

“Never better.” The heat of his body seeped into hers, warming her and causing her cheeks to flush.

He put his arm across the back of the seat, cocooning her closer to his body. Regina glanced to see if Clarissa had noticed but she was deep in conversation with Charles. She had lost the somewhat childish tone she often spoke with and sounded very grown up.

“Has your father come to any decisions?” his voice was barely a whisper.

“No yet,” she whispered back.

A small frown flitted across his face. “I must return to Maine in a few days but I will be back by the end of the month.”

“You’re leaving?” her voice sounded desperate, even to her own ears.

He patted her shoulder. “Regina, I have to prove to your father that I can be a success so that he will allow us to marry.”

Regina sat up straighter. “Of course I understand, but I don’t want to be apart from you.”

“It will only be for a few weeks and then I will return.”

Regina rested back on the seat again. She simply must find a way to convince her father before James left.

The carriage pulled up to the Worthy’s hotel and the entire party got out to greet Abigail. Regina felt a pang of jealousy when she looked at the other woman. Abigail looked divine with her dark curls pulled artfully back with a pink and cream colored dress that highlighted her perfect skin.

Abigail bounced with excitement as they all climbed back into the carriage and headed for the Pleasure Gardens to picnic. Regina took her former seat and James sat next to her. Abigail scooted herself next to James and Regina’s teeth clenched. It was going to be a long afternoon.

They reached the Pleasure Gardens and James began setting up a picnic. Abigail talked while Regina helped to put out the food. “Who cooked all of this?” Regina asked.

“The ship’s cook.” He grinned. “He was none too happy about having to put out a spread for ladies.”

She giggled, “We could have packed the picnic.”

“This is my responsibility, but thank you.”

“What are you two giggling about?” Abigail flounced over to them.

“Tis nothing.” James winked at Regina.

“After we eat, we should go for a walk.” Abigail eyed them both, eagerly leaning forward. There was something strange in her behavior but Regina couldn’t quite put her finger on it.

“Oh let’s,” Clarissa chimed in. “The gardens are beautiful in the spring.”

Everyone agreed and they began to eat. Regina cocked an eyebrow to see Charles and Clarissa sitting so close. They were lost in their own world. Regina was very happy for her sister.

Once done, James packed the remaining food in the basket and the group set off.

“When will it bloom in Maine?” she asked idly as they strolled.

“Not for a few weeks yet. It is nice to visit more southern locations this time of year.” James gave her a wink as they walked.

“The advantage of owning a shipping company.” They shared another smile.

“That is why you should move south.” Abigail stepped on the other side of James, lacing her arm through his.

He gave her a patient smile. “Maine is my home and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. But it is nice to escape every now and then.”

Abigail made a face at him. “You must come visit us so that I can change your mind.”

“Perhaps,” he murmured.

“Clarissa loves the South, don’t you…” The words died on Regina’s lips. Her sister and Charles were not behind them as she’d thought. “We’ve lost some members of the party.”

James stopped and turned. “We should find them, your father…”

“Good idea,” she said.

“No!” Abigail shouted rather loudly. “That is, I saw them pass us. They are just up ahead. Come James, I will show you.”

“We will all go,” he replied and they picked up the pace.

They did not find them as they moved down the trail and after five minutes of searching, Abigail disappeared around a corner. “James, over here.”

He motioned for her to follow and he sprinted towards Abigail’s voice. Regina knew what he was worried about. Her father would blame him if Clarissa was compromised in any way.

She followed behind as he disappeared around the corner. A prickle of fear skittered down her spine and she turned to look behind her. A man was there and before she could even scream, his hand clamped over her mouth and he grabbed her, dragging her off the trail. She fought with everything she had but she was losing.

***

James raced to Abigail to find her standing in the middle of a secluded garden. “What did you see?”

She shrugged. “I guess it was nothing.” She gave a nervous giggle.

James narrowed his eyes. There was something strange in her behavior today. He found her terribly annoying to begin with but today she seemed almost devious. A strange noise caught his attention. It sounded like the rustling of clothes or a struggle. “Regina!” He began sprinting back down the trail.

“Wait, we are finally alone. Don’t go.” He ignored her. “Wait for me at least.”

James didn’t slow his pace as he raced back towards Regina. He reached the spot where he had left her and drag marks led into another garden.

He followed them at a sprint, not stopping to breathe as he ran. He couldn’t let anything happen to her.

He rounded a corner and there before him was Regina, her back pressed against a shabby looking man, struggling with everything she had.

He didn’t pause as he hurtled himself at them both, fist drawn. He knocked the other man square in the jaw, sending both him and Regina to the ground.

Quick as he could, he reached for Regina pulling her up and into his arms. Her eyes were wide as saucers. He gave her head a quick kiss, squeezing her in his arms for a second. “Thank God, I made it to you.”

A little sob escaped her chest. He wanted to hold her in his arms and never let her go but he needed to tie this man up and find out why he had grabbed Regina. “I’m sorry, my love, but I need to tear some strips from your petticoat.”

She nodded taking a deep breath. James’ heart swelled with pride. She was beautiful and selfless and he could add brave to the list. He bent down, his head level with her abdomen. He desperately wanted to bury his face into her stomach and wrap his arms around her waist, but instead he placed his hands on her petticoats and ripped long strips. Her shaking hands rested on his shoulders. He looked up at her and gave her an encouraging smile. “You’re all right now. Just another minute.”

She gave him a tiny nod. Having several strips, he returned to the man he had knocked unconscious. He quickly bound his hands behind his back and tied his ankles together.

He returned to Regina, wrapping her in his arms. “You were so brave.” His lips found hers and she turned her face eagerly up to his, pressing closer to him. Her arms snaked around his neck, pulling him closer still as her soft lips responded to his kiss. God’s blood, she set him on fire. He gathered her body up against his.

“What the hell happened?” Charles’ voice boomed across the garden.

Reluctantly James pulled his lips from Regina’s. Her face held the same regret he was feeling. One thing was clear, Regina was his. He had known it before but now he was absolutely certain that no man would ever touch her but him. He turned to his friend. “Where were you?”

Charles stopped. James could have sworn that a blush crept up his friend’s cheeks. “Clarissa wanted to see the statues—”

“Clarissa?” James slowly removed his hands from around Regina. “Later I will introduce you to Miss Lafayette’s father. Right now, I need you to get my carriage and find another for hire. I’ll not have the ladies ride with this thug.” James peered around Clarissa and Charles to see Abigail hiding behind them. “Miss Worthy, I would like a word.” Charles ran in the other direction as James stared intently at the woman.

Abigail stepped from behind Clarissa, crossing her arms over her chest. Her chin held a defiant tilt. “I only wanted a moment alone. Look at the way you’re holding her. You’re not even giving me a chance.”

“Did you know that Regina would be attacked?” James watched her carefully. Her eyes darted everywhere but him. She had known. “Of course I didn’t, I—”

“Who is responsible, Miss Worthy?” He reluctantly let Regina go and walked over to the other woman. He needed to know and she wasn’t leaving until he found out.

“How should I know, I only…” she stopped talking because the man on the ground moaned. Her eyes rounded as she peeked around James. He ground his teeth together, trying to be patient with this fluff of a girl.

“People are getting hurt, please tell me the truth.” He stepped closer to her and she attempted to look anywhere but him. “Look at me,” his voice ground out. He was losing his patience.

She started at the rough sound of his voice. Good, he thought to himself.

“Mr. Stillwell told me to get Regina alone.” He heard Regina gasp. “But he said he only wanted to talk to her to convince her to marry him and then I could be alone with…” her voice died off.

“Do you know how dangerous that was?” His voice was ragged. His breath coming in short gasps.

“You wouldn’t pay attention to me!” she huffed.

The sound of wagon wheels on the dirt path snapped James’ head up. “Come on, all of you.”

“I don’t have to…”

“Go,” he snapped. He didn’t care if he lost the Worthy contract anymore. He couldn’t bear another word out of her mouth.

James grabbed the kidnapper by the arm and dragged him along as the women walked ahead. Regina looked back at him several times and he tried to tell her with his eyes that it would be all right. Charles hopped out of the carriage door and hustled back over to James. Then he grabbed the assailant’s other arm. Together, they tossed him into the carriage. “I will take him to the Lafayette house. Bring Miss Worthy to her hotel and then follow me back to the Lafayette home.”

“James, I am so…”

“We will talk about it later.”

Charles gave a quick nod and then raced off again to procure a hansom. James turned to look at Regina. Clarissa was holding her sister’s hand, stroking it as she murmured. Clarissa looked positively tortured.

“Miss Lafayette, don’t look so distressed. It wasn’t your fault,” he tried to soothe her.

“But it’s mine,” Abigail spit out.

He sighed. Abigail was guilty of being a silly, selfish, thoughtless girl. But he doubted she knew Regina would be hurt. “Of course not, it is Mr. Stillwell’s.”

Abigail gave him a glowing smile. He bit back the need to tell her she was a little fool.

He walked back over to Regina. “We will work all of this out, I promise.”

Regina finally spoke. “You don’t think Obediah really tried to…” her voice broke.

“I don’t know but we will get to the bottom of it.” He took her in his arms again kissing the top of her head. Her floral scent filled his nostrils. “I’ll never let anyone hurt you.”

Charles returned with the hansom and James ushered the ladies inside. He handed Regina and her sister in but Abigail pulled her arm away. “I can’t believe you kissed her.”

He crossed his arms over his chest. “Good day, Miss Worthy.” It was a good thing he didn’t believe in violence towards women.

He climbed into the other carriage to see the assailant had woken up. The man stared at him. “Let me go or I’ll scream.”

“Scream and I will turn you immediately over to the authorities.”

The man closed his mouth. After a few moments he spoke again. “Can you at least put me up on the seat?”

“You’re fine on the floor.”

It was a short ride to the Lafayette home and he peeked out the window as they started up the drive. Mr. Lafayette must have been alerted to their approach because James saw him step out the doors and climb down the steps to greet them.

As the carriage came to a halt, James didn’t wait for the door to be opened, he launched out. Mr. Lafayette caught sight of him and the man lying on the floor. “What—”

“Allow me to explain.”  James then told him everything that had happened that afternoon in less than one minute.

“You were wise to bring him here. Get him out of the carriage, I want to speak to him.” Mr. Lafayette turned to the butler. “Mr. Rothberg, please fetch Obediah for me. Make it clear that this is an invitation he had best not refuse.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Take mine.” James waved towards his carriage.

“Most kind of you.”

James grabbed the other man off the floor and dragged him towards the house. Mr. Lafayette took up his other side and together they brought him through the front doors.

“Where is my daughter now?”

“My friend, Charles Baker, was bringing Miss Worthy to her hotel and then bringing your daughters here.”

“You trust him?”

“Yes,” James responded simply. Mr. Lafayette nodded.

They carried the man to the study. “Sit him in a chair, we want our guest to be comfortable,” Mr. Lafayette murmured.

The man looked at him wearily. “What are you going to do to me?”

Mr. Lafayette sat across from him. “That depends on how truthful you plan on being. Let’s start with your name.”

“Crocker. Tim Crocker.” He cleared his throat.

“Well, Mr. Crocker, who hired you to kidnap my daughter?”

“Now I wouldn’t call it kidnapping, I was just to bring her for a chat, that’s all.”

“Who hired you?” Mr. Lafayette’s voice had hardened considerably. The other man blinked several times.

“A man named Stillwell. Said the lady was to be his wife but she got cold feet. Said that he needed to reassure her.”

“How much did he pay you?”

The other man paled. “I…I…was just going—”

“How much?” Tom Lafayette’s voice was razor sharp.

“Five gold coins sir. Please, I know it ain’t right but I got a little one and she needs to be fed.” He trembled.

“What did he tell you to do?”

“Just wait till she was alone and bring her to his house.”

“Address?”

“Seventy-five Irving Street, sir.”

James looked at Mr. Lafayette with a question, “Is that his address, sir?”

“Call me Tom.” He stood and moved behind the desk. Tom opened a drawer and pulled something out. Crocker paled even more but it was a bag of coins. “Did he pay you yet?”

“No sir, he said he would pay me when I delivered her. I meant what I said, I have a daughter, she’s countin’ on me to return.” Silently, Tom Lafayette grabbed a letter knife from the desk. He moved behind the man and swiftly cut the bonds on his hands. Then he bent and cut his feet as well. He stepped back around and pulled out some coins. “Here are the five he owes you. If you stay and speak in front of him, I will give you five more.”

Crocker’s hand shook as he took the money. “Thank you, sir. I swear I never did nothin’ bad. I just can’t find a job and we ain’t had nothing to eat. I don’t know how to thank you for not involving the police.”

Tom nodded and James shook his head. He couldn’t believe that Tom Lafayette had shown this man so much compassion. The man sounded sincere and James had a suspicion that he deserved his empathy.

A noise from the hall had both men turning their heads. Tom went to the door and opened it. Clarissa came in first, throwing herself into her father’s arms.

Regina stepped in next and James moved to her in two steps, wrapping her in his arms. She looked beautiful and vulnerable and he wanted to hold her and kiss her and never let her go.

She glanced at the man in the chair. James gave her a little squeeze. “It’s all right. Your father has it well in hand.”

“Thank you, James,” her father replied.

“Mr. Lafayette…”

“I already told you, son, call me Tom.”

“Tom, this is my friend, Charles Baker. He is from Kennebunk but is currently studying business at Harvard.”

Charles stepped up next to Clarissa. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”

Tom’s eyebrow’s raised the merest fraction of an inch. “Mr. Baker.”

James felt the corners of his mouth pulling up, but he tried to keep his expression neutral. He had been where Charles stood now and he was glad to have made progress with Regina’s father. He should study Mr. Lafayette. The man had built a business empire, and he could teach James a great deal about running a successful business.

Another noise in the hall had everyone turning. Obediah stood in the doorway, shaking slightly.  He was even paler than normal. In stark contrast, his cousin stood behind him looking an alarming shade of red.

“What is this all about?” she blustered.

Tom Lafayette stood a little straighter. “As I am sure you know, Regina is no longer promised to Obediah.”

“I did not know.” She crossed her arms over her beefy chest.

“Obediah hired this gentleman here to take Regina from the park and bring her to his home.”

“I would never!” Obediah proclaimed. “This man is a miscreant and I would never associate with such a fellow.”

The man started to speak. Mr. Lafayette help up his hand. “Then how is it that he knew your name, address, and where to find Regina?”

Obediah looked stricken for a few seconds then his eyes swung to James. “He is framing me. He wants Regina for himself and he has set all of this up.”

James shook his head, “Miss Worthy implicated you as well.”

Obediah paled even more. He shook slightly but then straightened his shoulders. “She is in love with you. You put her up to it.”

“Enough,” Tom’s voice sliced through the room. “I cared about you. I would have helped you even after what you did to my daughters. You will never darken our doorstep again. Get out of my house.”

“But the business. I came all this way—” Margaret stuttered.

“That is the fault of your cousin. Good day.” Tom turned to the butler. “See them home.”

“Yes, sir.”

James watched the thin man walk away. He hoped that was the last he ever saw of Obediah Stillwell.

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER EIGHT

Regina watched Obediah walk away. To think, she had almost married him. He had tried to hurt her and now kidnap her. She trembled and James pulled her closer. Her father was watching them intently, she could feel it but she didn’t care. In her mind, he had lost the right to an opinion. He might have a great business mind but he didn’t seem to know the first thing about what she needed in a husband.

“It has been a trying afternoon. Girls you should go rest.”

“Oh Papa, how could we possibly after everything—”

“Enough Clarissa. Upstairs with you both. Gentlemen, if I may have a word.” Her father had dismissed them.

Regina looked at James. “Call tomorrow.”

He gave a single nod and, feeling better, she left.

Upstairs, she changed out of her dress that was ripped and dirty and lay down on her bed. At dinner tonight, she would speak to her father about the marriage. She refused to wait any longer. With that in her mind, she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep. Her last thought was of James’ handsome face and his strong arms around her.

That evening the family sat tensely around the table. Her father had barely said a word. Her mother was pale, only Clarissa talked. She couldn’t say enough good things about Mr. Baker.

“He is so handsome and Papa, he sprang to action in the crisis. We ought to invite him for dinner.”

Her father gave a halfhearted nod. “Of course. Business school at Harvard, no less. Perhaps we should consider him as a suitor for Regina.”

“Regina! No! Papa, I was talking about me.”

Regina sat up straighter. “You said you would consider James.”

“I am considering James. But that doesn’t mean that I won’t consider others. We must do what is best for you but also the entire family.”

Regina looked at her father. She had once seen him play cards. He kept his expression exactly the same. When he had a good hand or a poor one his face never moved. It was one of the traits that made him successful. She loved her father, but she already knew her heart and she knew she would marry James. Her father didn’t need to know that. She would keep her face neutral. She would not give him the slightest hint of her plans. It was time to take her own future in her hands.

“I see,” she replied.

“Regina, you can’t possibly marry Charles. That isn’t fair. Papa, I will never speak to you again—”

“Hush child. No one has planned anything yet.”

Regina’s mother looked over at her and her eyes grew wide with understanding. She knew that Regina was feigning complicity. “Clarissa, listen to your father.”

Both Tom and Clarissa looked surprised at her mother’s support of her father. Clarissa began to cry at the table.

“Should we have him over for dinner tomorrow?” Her father asked, looking pleased at the cooperation.

“If you don’t mind, Papa, James leaves on Wednesday. It will be easier after he has left town.” Regina kept her eyes down and her voice neutral.

“Of course, Regina. That makes perfect sense.” He nodded his approval. Regina clenched her fist in her lap. She had no intention of being here on Thursday.

The next day James came as promised. Her father greeted him and thanked him for his help. By all outward appearances, her father seemed to favor James. But Regina knew the truth. Her mother sat on the other side of the library to chaperone their visit.

“How are you this morning?” he asked in a low voice.

She shook her head. “My father is considering other suitors. James, I think we should run away.”

His eyes looked stricken but he shook his head. “I will marry you, Regina, but I want to do it with your father’s permission. I don’t want to estrange you from your entire family.”

“He is talking about Charles, James. My family will be ripped to pieces if that happens and so will you and Charles. We have to stop this,” she whispered.

“I will convince your father. I have to go home and get these contracts I have procured started. I have men counting on me for work and,” he gave her a soft smile, “a soon-to-be wife I need to take care of. But I will come back in a week and convince your father that I am the man you should marry.”

“I don’t want to wait that long. My father can be tricky, he is stubborn about getting his way.”

“Regina, he will not marry you off in a week. I promise to take care of it.” His hand touched hers. She sighed inwardly. Apparently James could be as stubborn as her father. Well, she was finding her own stubborn streak and she was not going to wait for either of them to act. She knew what she had to do.

Over the course of the next three days, Regina began stashing clothes in a sheet. Nothing fancy. She packed serviceable clothing only. James visited her every day. She knew he was worried by her silence but she couldn’t help it. If she told him what she was planning, he might try to stop her and she wouldn’t have that. It was going to be her way now.

He came on Wednesday and instead of inviting him into the library, she brought him to the music room. She played several pieces of music on the piano to avoid talking. Finally, his hands covered hers on the key board. “You are angry with me.”

“No, I’m not.”

“You still want to marry me?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Then why do you grow more silent with each passing day?”

Regina looked into his eyes. “Now is not the time for words. It is the time for action.”

His pierced back into hers, “What do you mean?”

“Regina,” her mother called. “We must leave for tea soon.”

“When does your ship sail?” She could only hope it was later. That would make it easier.

“Ten tonight, so that we might catch the tide.”

“When will you return?” She looked away then.

“A week from today. Try not to worry.” His hand brushed hers.

She grabbed both his hands and gave them a squeeze. “I’m not worried. Have a safe journey.”

“Regina, you will wait for me won’t you?” Worry tinged his voice.

“I’ll marry no one else, I swear it.”

He smiled then, relief relaxing his face.

He left shortly after and Regina went to tea with her mother. She ate dinner with her family and played the piano before retiring at eight o’clock.

Her maid helped her undress and then braided her hair. Regina dismissed her saying she was tired. Quickly, she shimmied into a pair of breeches and a shirt she snitched from the stable that must have belonged to one of the stable boys. Regina crammed a hat on top of her head. She fastened the bundle of clothes around her back and headed out onto the balcony. She climbed down the lattice, finding it exceedingly easy in the pants. She headed for the back alley, nerves fluttering in her chest. She had written to a hansom company, offering a double wage to have a carriage waiting for her. If it wasn’t there, she would have to try to flag one on the street. She didn’t want to miss the boat.

She breathed a sigh of relief when the carriage stood waiting at the back gate. She handed the driver the normal wage. “I’ll give you the rest when we reach the docks.”

He gave her a suspicious look. She had tucked her hair in her shirt and pulled the hat low but he must still suspect she was a woman. But she climbed in, and he snapped the reins.

They reached the boat in less than fifteen minutes and she handed the driver the rest of her fare. Now she needed to get on the ship unseen.

She climbed up the plank just behind four other sailors. The ship was a bustle of activity with cargo being loaded and sails being rigged. It was far easier than Regina expected to slip through the crowd. No one noticed one small woman dressed as a boy.

She saw James standing, talking with the captain. Her heart fluttered wildly. What would he do when he found out he had a stowaway? The question now was where to hide? She stood out of the way and watched the scene for fifteen minutes before one of the sailors called. “Take that there to Mr. Carter’s quarters.”

Regina smiled to herself. She knew exactly where to hide. She followed the men at a distance and watched as they brought the small crate below deck and then to a room at the end of the hall. She doubled back down to other end of the hallway and pressed herself against the wall to not be seen until they left. Then she zipped towards his room closing herself in the darkness.

Fumbling around, she found a candle and lit it, casting a soft glow. She took a breath and then sat on the bed. There was a wardrobe against the far wall. She walked the path back and forth to it. If someone came she would blow out the candle and hide in the large piece.

Regina heard the sails unfurl and felt the boat begin its journey out to sea. Her own body jumped with anticipation. She removed the hat and pulled out her hair. She unplaited the mass, shaking it out around her shoulders. She took a deep breath and stripped off her clothing, folding it neatly in a pile. Then she slipped beneath the covers.

It felt like an eternity passed but she finally heard footsteps in the hall. She blew out the candle and lay silently in the bed. It took several minutes but finally the steps neared the door and she heard it creak open and then softly close.

It hadn’t occurred to her until that very minute that it could be someone other than James. The flint struck and the candle was relit. Regina felt a rush of relief as his profile came into view. She lay there for a moment just looking at him. She would never tire of his features. She had no idea if she should alert him of her presence. What if she frightened him?

As if he could sense her thoughts, his head turned towards the bed. His eyes found hers and grew wide at the sight of her. She had the covers pulled just over her breasts but her shoulders and arms were bare.

“Regina?” he breathed out in a ragged whisper.

“Hello,” she gave him a glowing smile.

“But your father, he…”

“This isn’t about him. I don’t want to wait. I want you to kiss me.”

“I should take you back,” he started even as his eyes roamed all over her.

“It’s too late. Now he will never trust me again. I’ve made my choice.” Regina reached out her arms to him. He looked at her for the briefest second and then he moved towards the bed in one motion.

His arms pressed on either side of the mattress, pinning the covers on both sides of her. His lips came down on hers in a fierce, yet gentle kiss. She lifted her chin, to meet him and he slanted her lips open, teasing her tongue with his.

Sensation shot through her body as she let out a gasp and wound her arms around his neck. He gathered her closer, lifting her off the mattress.

His lips left hers and began to pepper kisses all over her face and down her neck. Tiny bursts of sensation travelled through her body as his lips blazed a trail down her chest. When he took a nipple in his mouth, she moaned and pressed closer.

“Regina, we should stop but I simply…” he said and for a moment Regina feared he would stop. He set her back down on the mattress but her protest died on her lips as he shrugged off his shirt and then gathered her in his arms again.

His lips found hers again as he gently pulled the covers down her body. His hands touched her shoulders then slid over her breasts, teasing them until she felt faint. Then his fingertips brushed down her abdomen until they settled in the soft juncture of curls.

The gentle touch of his fingertips made her moan again and arch in desire as waves of pleasure rippled throughout her entire body. “Ooohh,” she breathed.

He smiled against her lips but his fingers continued their ministrations until Regina was sure she would explode from the pleasure.

James stopped and Regina groaned in protest. He gave a small chuckle. “Not to worry, my love.” Then he stood and stripped off his pants.

Regina’s eyes widened at the sight of him naked. A sudden flutter of nerves filled her chest. “I…I’m…I’ve…” she tried to speak but failed.

He climbed into the bed next to her, gathering her in his arms. The feel of his skin against her own sent delicious shivers along her skin. His lips gently kissed hers. “You are mine now, Regina. Don’t be afraid.”

“I’m not. I’m ready.” She meant it. She wanted to be his in every sense of the word.

She wound her arms around his neck and he rolled her onto her back, settling between her legs. Slowly he pushed her folds open and then thrust inside her with one quick motion.

Pain burst through her lower regions and she gave a whimper. James gathered her closer, kissing her face. “I am so sorry, my love.” He stayed stock still but Regina could feel his body taut as a bow waiting to release an arrow.

She took a few deep breaths, “I am all right.” She kissed his lips.

“Are you sure?” he asked.

She nodded and he began to move slowly inside of her. The pain subsided and a deep pleasure replaced it. She moaned as she held him closer.

“Regina,” he groaned out as she gasped in aching need.

“Don’t stop,” she pulled him even closer, meeting each thrust. The pleasure continued to build inside of her until Regina felt she might burst from the joy of it. Finally, they both fell over the edge.

Regina lay panting in James’ arms. He gathered her tightly to him. “I love you, Regina Lafayette.”

She snuggled her face into the crook of his neck. She had never felt closer to another human being. “And I love you, James Carter.” She giggled. “The only question is when do I become Regina Carter? You do plan to make an honest woman of me don’t you?”

He chuckled. “Your father is certain to hunt me down either way but I best marry you so that he doesn’t murder me. I think we can have the captain take care of that tomorrow.”

“Oh, how wonderful! Marrying on the Four Winds is a perfect idea.” She kissed his nose, his cheeks, and his chin.

“And then, my love, we will never have to be apart again.”

She exhaled, sinking into his arms. That sounded heavenly.

SEEDS OF LOVE

CHAPTER NINE

The wedding was everything she could have hoped for. She looked into James’ eyes in the evening sun, feeling like the luckiest woman who had ever lived.

When the ceremony was over, they stood at the rail and watched the waves in the setting sun. Just as it was about to get dark, land could be seen on the horizon. The boat cut towards the shore and Regina gasped as the pristine beach came into view. Up on a cliff stood a proud two-story house, surrounded by forest. “There it is,” he pointed.

Regina held her breath, “It is everything I ever dreamed of.” She gave him a glowing smile.

“Since the moment I met you, I knew you were perfect for me.”

“That is so strange, I felt the same.”

“Let’s go home.”

As the boat docked, James swung her into his arms, carrying her up a long winding trail to the house.

She barely noticed as he kissed her all the way up the path.

He swung open the front door and four staff members stood at attention. “Hello, sir,” the housekeeper greeted him cheerfully. Her glance flitted across Regina, surprise lighting her eyes.

“Mrs. Randal, may I introduce Mrs. Carter.” He beamed, looking down at her and winking.

The housekeeper paused for just a moment and then gave them a smile. Relief washed through Regina. “Pleased to meet you, would you be liking some dinner?”

“Bring something up to our room later. Leave it outside the door.” Then James swept her up the large staircase.

Before Regina had even looked at her surroundings, James laid her down in a soft bed. His lips found hers.

“What will the staff think?” she gasped as his lips came down on her clothed breast. He began tearing away at her clothing.

“They’ll think we are newlyweds who need some privacy. Now, it is time to officially make you Mrs. Carter.”

Regina lost herself in his arms that night. Without the fear or pain, it was magical. They climaxed together and Regina floated down in his arms. She had never been happier.

Snuggled close to him, she drifted off into the best sleep of her life. A knock at the door roused her.

“Go away,” James called.

“But sir, someone is here to see you.”

“Tell them to go away.”

“But sir, he says he wants his daughter back.”

Regina sat bolt upright. She hadn’t pictured her father chasing her. She looked at James, his mouth was set in a grim line.

“I’ll be right down.”

“I’m coming with you.”

“No, stay here. It is my duty to fix this—”

“Posh, I ran away. I stowed in your ship. This is my doing. I’ll not be left out anymore.”

James gave her a smile. “That’s my girl. I’ll help you dress.”

Within ten minutes, they were heading back down the stairs. This time Regina had time to look around. The house was beautiful but it lacked the finish she could give it to truly make it special.

Her father lounged in a chair in the front sitting room. He looked surprisingly casual.

“Papa?”

“What I want to know, Regina, is did you run away or did he steal you?”

“It was my choice. He didn’t have anything to do with it.”

“That I find hard to believe. Did he turn his ship around and deliver you right back to my door? I don’t think so.”

“You’re correct there, sir—”

“Tom, call me Tom.” Her father’s voice was smooth and calm.

“Tom, I have married your daughter.”

“Excellent. You will get a small portion of my business since I know you don’t want to take it over. You will have exclusive rights to build our ships of course. Regina also has an inheritance from her mother that includes a piece of land on the Boston Harbor.”

Regina looked at James. This was not what she had expected. “Papa?”

“Regina, you are my daughter. I couldn’t just give you what you wanted. You had to learn to take it. You will appreciate it so much more for having made the choice yourself. Now James, do you accept the terms?”

“I do not need a dowry. I will take care of Regina myself.”

“I know, son. Put it away for your children then.”

James gave a nod and the two men shook hands. “Now, if I may encroach upon your hospitality, I am famished.”

Regina shook her head. In all her imaginings, she would have never expected this but he was right. Being married to James was all the more sweet for having made the choice and fought for the man she loved.

SEEDS OF LOVE

EPILOGUE

Regina lay in bed, panting. When would James come? Another contraction tightened her body, leaving her breathless. She had done this before, of course. James Jr. and little Tom were now with their nanny waiting for the birth of their newest sibling.

Regina and James had been married for eight blissful years. Regina thanked the stars every day that she had met James.

She was no longer the woman who had first fallen on the docks. These days she laughed louder and told people when she disagreed with them. James’ love had allowed her to open up in ways she never imagined she would. And right now, she was irritated with her husband. He would know it.

He had promised to be here for the birth of their child. He was making a quick trip to Boston and then he promised to come right back. But a storm had blown in and he hadn’t returned.

Another contraction ripped through Regina and she cried out. She was worried and angry all in the same moment.

The door burst open and James looked at her lying in the bed. “I’m not too late,” he panted.

“You’re late and you frightened me half—aahhhh!” Another contraction left her breathless.

“I am so sorry, my love. Please forgive me.” He knelt beside the bed, holding her hand. He kissed it over and over.

“It won’t be long now, you should go.” The doctor nodded towards the door.

“I’ll stay.” James pushed the hair back from Regina’s brow. She gave him a small smile as the urge to push took over.

James held her tight as a baby girl entered the world.

The doctor wrapped her in blankets and handed her to her mother. James snuggled them both to his chest. “A girl. By all the saints, it’s a girl. What should we call her?”

“Lillian,” Regina said simply.

“I like that. My Lily.”

“Was the storm terrible?”

“It wasn’t good, Regina.”

“We’ve made our life on the ocean, and if tomorrow were my last day, I would feel complete having you in my life and in my heart. I love you, James. But we have to take measures to ensure our children’s future.”

“We have an inheritance set aside for each of them.” He held her closer, squeezing her shoulders.

“We can’t just give it to them, though. They have to fight for it, love for it. I didn’t know it but that was a gift my father was giving to me. We should give it to them. Don’t you think?”

He nodded. “I agree. Either way, we will make sure to teach James, Tom, and Lily what it means to fight for love.”

“I love you, James Carter.” She turned her face up to his and he peppered her with kisses.

“And I you, my darling Regina.”

EXCERPT: LILIES IN BLOOM BOOK 2

LILY IN BLOOM

April 1854

“This color would look lovely on you, darling.  It is the perfect shade of blue for your eyes.”  The dressmaker gushed over a bolt of lovely fabric as she held it up under Lillian Carter’s chin.

Lily smiled weakly and looked over at her brother, James.  She knew that they couldn’t afford custom dresses and that is why she hadn’t wanted to come to the dress shop at all but her brother had insisted.  He wanted her to have new clothes for the upcoming spring season in Boston.

“That’s perfect, we’ll take it.”  James said with a stubborn set to his jaw.

“You look like you just swallowed sour milk,”  Lily said to her brother with a laugh.  James scowled more deeply and gave his sister a hard look.  Undeterred, she stopped laughing but continued to smile.  “We don’t need to buy dresses James.  I am sure I can make do with what I have.  I can always rework them to be more in fashion.”

“Absolutely not.  With Tom’s wedding happening this season you’ll need clothes for all the events we’ll be attending.  It will be the perfect opportunity for you to be introduced to perspective suitors.” James’ face remained set.

Lily’s smile slipped from her face but she said nothing and James did not notice because his wife had emerged from the dressing room.  Elise stood before them in a beautiful pink evening dress.  She pirouetted and then stepped in front of the mirror.

“What do you think?”  Elise asked with a smile.  Her dark hair and eyes were set off beautifully by the fabric, which came off the shoulder and hugged her supple curves.

“You look beautiful.”  Lily said, with a smile, to her sister-in-law.

James moved closer to inspect his wife and the two shared a look that made Lily turn away with a slight blush on her face.  Her brother and Elise had fallen madly in love six years ago and had been married for the past five.  They seemed just as passionate about each other now as they had then.  Lily hoped for the opportunity to find that for herself someday but her time was running out.

“Miss Carter, why don’t you step into the dressing room, I have some dresses made up in that blue silk.”  The dressmaker discreetly led Lily out of sight of the couple.

As Lily emerged from the dressing room a few minutes later, in a fitted gown with a low neckline currently in fashion, she was glad that James had taken her to buy new dresses.  Her current wardrobe had been purchased four years ago when she was fifteen and was far too girlish for a woman almost twenty.

“Lily, it is positively gorgeous!  My god, when did you become so stunning!”  Elise gushed as she saw the figure Lily posed in the mirror.

Lily looked at her reflection and was taken aback by what she saw.  The women in the shop had piled her honey colored hair on top of her head and let a few tendrils fall around her face.  The natural curls complimented her high cheek bones and full lips.  The color of the dress accentuated the shade of her eyes and made their exotic slant even more noticeable.  The dress hugged her curves and made her waist appear non-existent compared to her hips and bosom.  She felt like she was seeing herself for the first time.

James positively scowled and turned to his wife.  “I have changed my mind.  We’re not buying these for Lily, men will be crawling over themselves…”

“Too late.”  Elise cut him off.  “This gorgeous creature is about to be unleashed on Boston society.  God help them all!”

Their purchasing done, the Carter’s left the dress shop to return to their Commonwealth Avenue home.  James stepped away to retrieve their carriage while Elise and Lily waited.

Lily took a deep breath of the fresh spring air and looked around.   The dressmaker had a dress that fit her almost perfectly and had allowed her to wear it out of the shop.  It felt wonderful to be in new clothing. A nearby dogwood was putting out its blooms.  By the beginning of May large flowers would cover the tree.  It would be wonderful to see greenery again after a long cold winter in Maine.  It was wonderful to be in Boston with all the promise a new season held.  Could it possibly hold romance for her?  Lily was so caught up that she did not notice the two boys or the ball that were heading straight for her.

“Toby, look out!”  A deep voice pulled her out of her reverie but not in time.  A boy of four or five came barreling into her, causing her to lose her balance.  As she tried to right herself, she took a step back.  Unfortunately, Elise had set down the hat boxes there and she tripped, tumbling to the ground.  She felt her head bang an iron fence behind her and pain shot through her body.  She saw stars but somehow maintained consciousness.

“Toby!  What did I tell you about running when you’re not looking.”  She heard a sharp male voice.

“I was looking. I was looking at the ball.”  The little boy responded.  If her head hadn't been swimming, she would have laughed.

“Are you all right?” His deep voice pierced through her haze but  it took Lily a moment to realize that the question had been directed at her.  As she forced her eyes to focus she saw Elise bent down above her.  Next to her was the boy who had run into her a moment before.  He looked very frightened.  She tried to speak but somehow couldn’t form the words.

“It’s all right.  Don’t try to talk, just rest for a second.”  Lily turned to the baritone voice that was coming from her right.  Her breath stopped in her throat.  Above her was the most gorgeous man she had ever met, Eric Sampson.  She had met Eric four years earlier during her first official season in Boston.

He had been, and still was, the most handsome man she had ever laid eyes on.  When they were introduced, Lily had blushed and stuttered through their introduction.  It had been exhilarating an embarrassing all in the same moment.

Strong hands reached down and slid under her back, bringing Lily sharply back to the present.  Shivers raced up and down her spine that had nothing to do with her fall.  One look into the dark pools of his eyes made her tingle all over.  He had wavy dark hair, a straight nose and strong jaw.  His lips were full and seemed to curve in the smallest of smiles.  Eric’s broad shoulders and muscular body made him look as though he spent his time at sea rather than behind a desk.   His muscles rippled underneath her.  Desire crackled through Lily like lightening but she closed her eyes to gain control and block out his face.  Eric Sampson had been and still was married.

His wife Caitlin was everything that Lily as not.  Tall with dark red hair, Caitlin had a commanding physical presence.  To a shy girl of fifteen Eric’s wife had seemed to know everyone. Caitlin subtly flirted with the men and conspired with the women.   That season had been Lily’s first lessons in love and heartbreak.

Eric gently lifted her into the sitting position Lily swallowed hard and forced the butterflies in her stomach down.  How could she still react this way after four years?  She looked at the only man she had ever desired in her life.  He seemed older or harder.  She wasn’t sure what it was but he looked different.  No less attractive, but not the rake she had met.  As she was about to speak, Toby jumped in.

“I'm real sorry I ran into you like that,” he looked down at the ground.

Lily glanced at Eric’s son. He was the spitting image of his father at five years old. Large dark eyes sparkled from under unruly waves of dark hair. His nose was more upturned than his father’s, the only hint of his mother. He was sure to break hearts. Lily’s melted instantly. She could not stand to see this little boy look so sad over an accident.

“Apology accepted. Accidents happen to everyone.” She smiled at him as he looked at her in surprise.

“Do you mean it?” He returned her smile, looking relieved.

“Don’t look too happy, Toby. I have not forgiven you and you will be in trouble when we get home.” Eric spoke sternly to his son but he turned and smiled his thanks to her.

“Are you ready to get to your feet?” Eric once again looked at Lily and the butterflies flew up in her chest but she nodded her head. He slowly lifted her from the ground as if she weighed no more than a feather and lightly set her on her feet. She felt slightly dizzy but was afraid to speak. What was happening to her?

As he removed his hands, she began to sway and he once again placed his arms around her, pulling her closer to steady her. She felt hot and her body was tingling everywhere it was touching his, which only made her head swim more. She could not help herself, she tilted her head back and looked up into his handsome face.

Recognition and what Lily thought might be desire crossed over Eric's face as he looked down at her and Lily almost forgot to breath. She felt her arms traveling up around his neck and she had no power to stop them. His face seemed to be moving closer to hers, slowly but surely, and Lily felt her eyes flutter closed.

“What the devil is going on here?” An angry voice interrupted the moment and Eric’s head snapped up. Lily turned to see her brother striding toward them.

James reached the group on the sidewalk. His face was set in hard lines, fists clenched at his sides. “I knew I should not have allowed you to buy those dresses. Five minutes in one of them—”

“James, calm down.” Elise stepped between James and Eric. “Lily fell and hit her head. This man was only helping her.”

James stopped abruptly. His look turned from anger to concern. “Are you all right? Should I call a doctor?”

“I’m fine. Just a little dizzy.” Lily tried to speak normally but Eric was still holding her and she was having trouble concentrating.

“Perhaps we should see if you can stand on your own now.” Eric slowly let her go. Even in her dizziness she thought she felt his fingers graze down her back. Lily managed to steady herself. She still felt off balance but now that she wasn’t so close to Eric she felt like she could breathe again. A slow throb was building in the back of her head and working its way to her temples.

“Thank you for your help. We are in your debt. I must apologize for my outburst…” James shook Eric’s hand.

“No need for apologies. I understand completely,” Eric replied.

“I’m James Carter, this is my wife Elise and my sister Lillian.” Lily blinked. How could her brother not recognize the man she dreamed of so often?

“Eric Sampson, I believe we have met. This is my son Toby. I am afraid that I can take no such offer since it was my son that knocked her over in the first place. Your sister was most gracious. I would like to make this up to you in some way.”

“Eric Sampson? Of course. You own a few of our ships.” James seemed delighted now, his anger completely forgotten. Lily could have rolled her eyes. Lately James thought of little else besides his ship building business. It was one of the reasons her family had travelled to Boston for this season.

“Your ships were of excellent quality. We are still using them. I have been planning on contacting you for a new contract. Would you consider coming to my home this Friday for dinner? I would like to show Miss Carter my gratitude and perhaps discuss some business with you.” Eric smiled and Lily felt her head throb again.

James smiled back, looking ecstatic. “We would be delighted. Tell your wife we look forward to seeing her again as well.”

“Thank you for the thought but my wife passed away two years ago.” Eric looked at his feet, his face tightening.

“How horrible,” Elise murmured.

Lily, who had been focusing all of her energy on remaining standing, looked up suddenly. The movement caused the blood to rush from her head the world begin to go dark. She tried to grab at air but she couldn’t seem to balance. For the second time in minutes, she fell to the ground.

Lily opened her eyes to the sight of blue sky before her and tried to figure out why on earth she would be looking at the sky in the middle of the day. Slowly, the sounds around her began to penetrate her mind.

“Lily…Lily, can you hear me?” Lily turned to see the faces of her brother and sister-in-law staring down at her.

“What?” Confusion clouded her mind.

“James, I will get her into a hired carriage, you go fetch the doctor with ours. She must have hit her head worse than we thought.”

“Did I hit my head again?” Lily asked, feeling very confused.

“No, I caught you this time,” a deep gentle voice whispered in her ear. Reality slowly returned. She was cradled in Eric’s arms, his hand subtly stroking her back. If she hadn’t been so dizzy, the intimacy would have taken her breath away.

“Mr. Sampson, would you be so kind as to help me get her into the buggy?” Elise hailed the carriage over as Eric gently picked her up off the ground.

The driver got down off the seat to open the door as Eric carried her over.

“Where can I take you folks?” he asked with concern.

“Eight-twenty Commonwealth Avenue, please.” Elise stepped out of the way as Eric climbed in. He set her gently down on the seat. His eyes locked with hers as he gave her hand a squeeze. Gently, he brought her hand to his lips and gave it a light kiss. Lily’s heart beat in her chest and she looked away for a moment unsure of what to do or say. The moment was broken. Eric dropped her hand and stepped back out.

“I can follow you to help you when you arrive home,” Eric offered to Elise as she climbed in.

“Thank you but we should be fine. It was nice to meet you. We look forward to seeing you on Friday.” Elise motioned to the driver and Lily lifted her head briefly to see Eric, holding his son, watching the carriage drive away.

~~END OF EXCERPT~~

You can find Lily on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1S1Q152

More about Lily in Bloom:

“While the relationship between Lily and Eric is the primary focus of this story, the mystery/suspense factor is what kept this from being JUST a historical romance. Lily in Bloom was a fast-paced, romantic read that I absolutely LOVED. Even if you don't normally read "historical romances", PICK THIS BOOK UP!!” – Alysse Novak

ABOUT TAMMY ANDRESEN

Tammy Andresen lives with her husband and three children just outside of Boston, Massachusetts. She grew up on the Seacoast of Maine, where she spent countless days dreaming up stories in blueberry fields and among the scrub pines that line the coast. Her mother loved to spin a yarn and Tammy filled many hours listening to her mother retell the classics. It was inevitable that at the age of 18, she headed off to Simmons College, where she studied English literature and education. She never left Massachusetts but some of her heart still resides in Maine and her family visits often.

Seeds of Love is the Prequel to Lily in Bloom. You can find Lily on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1S1Q152

Find out more about Tammy:

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Table of Contents

Seeds of Love

Copyright

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Epilogue

Excerpt

About Tammy Andresen