To Teach A Gentleman Read online

  He stopped pacing and turned to face her. “Of what? Me? You should know I would never hurt you. You are mine to keep and protect. You’ve been such from the moment I found you in the drawing room.”

  With her eyes trained on the floor, she wrung her hands. “What if we don’t deal well together?”

  That weak excuse made him want to expose her reasons for the ludicrous delays they were, but the look on her face stopped him. She truly worried they were not compatible. He wanted to laugh at the absurd notion, but he didn’t.

  “I think you know me better than that,” he answered softly as he moved toward her, stopping in front of her. “We’ve been together in so many different situations, and I can’t think of one that would give you that impression.”

  “That’s true, but—”

  “Do you enjoy being with me?” He cut her off. “Do you enjoy my kisses? My touch?”

  To emphasize his words, he lightly ran his hands up her cold arms, then back down again. Her lips parted, and he wanted nothing more than to kiss her. However, he would not coerce her into this. To that end, he lifted her chin to look at him, then dropped his hands away.

  “Yes,” she breathed. “Yes, to all of those.”

  A smile spread across his face at the victory. “Our marriage will be no different, except you will have those things in more abundance. All you have to do is say yes. Then, in one month, I’ll finish teaching you what I began earlier today.”

  She shuddered and licked her lips. “Very well. I will agree to marry you.”

  “You don’t sound convinced.” He clicked his tongue although happiness at her concession welled up inside him. “Perhaps you need something more to motivate you.”

  “I think you might be right.” The sparkling in her eyes was unmistakable.

  Allowing the sheer joy of the situation to hit him, Christopher pulled her in tightly against his body. Then, he kissed her for everything he was worth. The sensations building inside him made him realize exactly how difficult this month would turn out to be.

  The next day as he sat in Jacques’s study, he realized his difficulties began sooner than he’d expected. After all, this entire time, he only selfishly thought about himself when claiming Genny for his own. The fact that his friend had also been pursuing her hadn’t crossed his mind until now.

  “If you’ve come to tell me about Marguerite and your brother, you are late,” Jacques informed him with a smile. “The happy couple were here yesterday to speak to me.”

  Christopher let out a sigh of relief. “I’m relieved to hear that. With how my brother was talking, I was concerned he would be making a trip to Scotland.”

  With a huge grin, Jacques raised his glass. “That may still come to pass, mon amie. The two have developed quite an intense connection, and I fear waiting is not something either of them are interested in.”

  “And, you are content with this decision?” The ease at which his friend discussed the subject shocked Christopher.

  Laughing, Jacques shook his head. “You, English are so bereft of passion. The trip to Gretna Green would be exactly what my sister needs. The excitement and the romance are what she craves. And, what I want for her. What about you? Seeing as you have lost your opportunity with Marguerite, you still have a great need of passion in your life.”

  Uncomfortable with the sudden change of topic, Christopher shifted in his seat. However, this was why he had come, and he needed to get this matter over with. In the end, he would be taking Genny for his wife regardless of the outcome.

  “Passion is a wonderful thing when you have it, but what is to be done when it fades?” The question popped out of his mouth before he had a chance to think. But, he could use his friend’s always wise advice at this point.

  “Ah, that is a very serious problem. However, true passion never fades. If you found it, hold on to it. Mon amie, you’ve had sorrow that you’ve held onto for so many years. It’s time to live again.”

  Christopher took a deep breath. “I believe you’re right. And, I may have found what I need. It may not last, but I will be content for as long as I am able.”

  “That is wonderful!” Jacques grinned. “Have you told the lucky lady?”

  “Yes. Just this afternoon. In one month’s time, Miss Jubal shall become my countess.”

  Watching Jacques’s reaction closely, Christopher was surprised to see genuine happiness on his friend’s face. Could it be he was mistaken about the man’s intentions? Regardless, it was good to know he wouldn’t lose a friend this day.

  “I knew you would finally realize it. Saving her for you wasn’t the easiest of tasks, for the lady has made quite an impression on society.” Jacques winked.

  Christopher’s mouth fell open. “Saving her for me? Is that what you were doing?”

  “Well, that and trying to convince her you were the one without her realizing my intentions.”

  Matching his friend’s grin, Christopher lifted his glass in salute. “You’re the best friend a man could ask for.”

  “Yes, well, the trouble will now begin for you. After all, you now must convince her to give in to those passions.”

  Christopher nodded, although he didn’t see that as a problem. The true trouble would be convincing himself not to give in every second of the day.

  ~ ~ ~

  “I just don’t see the necessity of all this,” Genevieve complained, then cringed when the seamstress nearly stuck her with a needle. Whether in retaliation or accident, she had no idea.

  “Don’t be obstinate, my dear.” Her mother motioned for the seamstress to continue. “You can’t very well enter your new husband’s home looking like a pauper. So, due to the generosity of your father and your betrothed, you shall have a new wardrobe.”

  “Very well.”

  Knowing arguing was pointless, Genevieve did as she was told, just as she had always done, and allowed the seamstress to take all the required measurements while discussing colors and styles with her mother. As usual, Genevieve was given no opinion. Instead, her mind was on her mother’s words.

  Her betrothed’s generosity? Did that mean Christopher was paying for her new wardrobe? She didn’t like that thought. He was enduring so much trouble for her simply because she had gone to his home in a moment of weakness. It wasn’t right for her to benefit from this.

  Then, the truth hit her. Perhaps, he wasn’t doing this for her at all. He’d seen her clothes and it was extremely likely that he was embarrassed by them. Of course the Countess of Andel would have an obligation when it came to presenting herself, where now she did not.

  “Are you listening to me?” her mother demanded as Genevieve dressed. “I just don’t know what to do with you, young lady. You are going to be a countess. Do you have any idea the obligations you will have?”

  “I know, Mother. I’m sorry. My mind wandered.”

  “Well, you must refrain from allowing that to happen. Come. Sit. Now that we are done, we need to discuss a very important subject.”

  Having no idea what her mother wanted to discuss, Genevieve followed behind her and sat on a chair. “What is it, Mother?”

  “It’s customary for the females of the family to explain your wifely duties to you.”

  “That’s not necessary. You have groomed me my whole life to run a household. I am fairly confident I can manage.” Genevieve wanted to roll her eyes at her mother’s distrust of her.

  Her mother looked away and cleared her throat. “That’s not what I’m referring to. I’m talking about what happens between a husband and a wife in the bedchamber.”

  Feeling fire moving up her face, Genevieve gasped for breath. Surely her mother didn’t wish to talk about things like what she’d done with Christopher. The thought was horrifying. Not to mention inappropriate.

 
“Considering that topic isn’t widely discussed, wouldn’t it be best for me to simply find out from my husband? Surely this isn’t proper.”

  The laughter spilling from her mother’s mouth was bitter. “You are wrong on both accounts. First, it will definitely be better for you to be mentally prepared for what you are to endure. Secondly, the tradition of the female members of the family regaling tall tales to the bride goes back for generations.”

  “So, this is a tradition?” Genevieve couldn’t keep the horror from her voice.

  “Not exactly. My family cornered me on my wedding day and told me all kinds of lies. I believe they did so in order to make me feel at ease for my wedding night, but all it did was make things worse. I’ll not allow that to happen to you.”

  Genevieve bit her lip. “You’re scaring me.”

  With a tenderness Genevieve had never seen from the woman, her mother patted her hand gently. “Don’t be afraid. Most of the time it goes very quickly. I have found it much better if you occupy your mind with something for the duration. Not only does it seem to speed the process, but it’s nice to not be entirely present.”

  Genevieve was so confused. “What are you talking about?”

  “My dear, your husband will want you unclothed and on the bed. Just do as he demands. When he joins you, the experience is painful for the woman, but the man gets a great pleasure.”

  “You mean when he takes my innocence?” Genevieve felt sick of the whole conversation. She’d experienced pleasure with Christopher. Had that only been his way of making her want to go further with him? A trick so that she would be willing to allow him to hurt her?

  “Yes. The first time brings the most pain, but I imagine he’ll want to engage in the act often. Most men do. It is your duty to allow your husband to take his pleasure. Just lie still and allow him to finish.”

  Not wanting to believe all this, Genevieve shook her head. “You must be mistaken. I can’t imagine men wanting to hurt their wives. I just can’t believe this.”

  “Then, you will be as devastated as I was on my wedding night. I met my husband with such foolish hope and excitement. Then, when he was done, I had tears in my eyes. Still, I asked him if that was all. He just laughed.”

  “That’s terrible.” Genevieve felt her own tears raising to the surface.

  Her mother laughed. “Don’t pity me, child. This is the shared fate of all women. You shall endure the same. In return, the earl will provide you with the home, children, clothing and occasional baubles. It’s not a bad life.”

  Realizing her mother spoke the truth, she nodded. A small amount of pain at night was surely worth a comfortable life. In addition, she wouldn’t be a burden to anyone. She would have her own household and children.

  As she thought back to her time with Christopher in the study, she recalled thinking how odd it was that men would go through such trouble to bring a woman to pleasure when they received nothing in return. The answer was clear now. Most men did not. It was likely a rare occurrence, and she should be honored that Christopher took the time to share it with her the other day.

  Knowing what she did now, she refused to be left ignorant like her mother. She would go to her marriage bed with the truth. She would bite her lip and endure whatever pain in silence. Christopher deserved as much from her.

  Chapter 13

  Christopher took his bride’s hand and led her toward the table to sign the marriage license. This was it. The final steps needed to tie Genny to him, completely. He couldn’t wait. As her shaking hand grabbed the pen and signed her name, he felt a sense of satisfaction.

  The past month had been more difficult than he’d anticipated. She had been distant and had lost the passion he had come to expect every time he’d touched her. It had made him wonder if her reaction had only been an act to make him offer for her, but he couldn’t truly bring himself to believe that.

  His fingers itched to recreate the feelings within her. Tonight, he would have his opportunity. It had been far too long since he’d experienced any relief, and now, only hours away, his impatience gnawed at him.

  As the minister presented them as husband and wife to the crowd, he couldn’t contain his smile. She belonged to him now. Everything they’d done, that they gone through, had been worth it for this one moment. He tried to pace his steps, after all, they had a lifetime together.

  It felt like ages before he handed his wife into the carriage, tossed a few coins to the gathered crowd, then followed in behind her. Then, they were finally alone. His breathing increased as he gazed upon her beauty. The intricate lace and beaded light green dress surely took all month to complete, but he was glad it had been commissioned. Genny presented quite a sight in it.

  Her face, however, was creased with worry. Any time he asked her after her feelings, she’d skirted the issue. That would no longer be acceptable. She was his responsibility now. He would see to her comfort regardless of what she required.

  “You don’t look happy,” he observed. “I assure you, it’s too late to change your mind. You belong to me now.”

  Her back straightened as her chin went up. “I have no intention of changing my mind.”

  “Then, what is wrong? I told you there is nothing to be afraid of.”

  “I’m not afraid.” The shaking in her voice betrayed her statement.

  “Is that so? Then, kiss me,” he challenged, knowing full well what her reaction would be.

  As he’d expected, panic ran through her eyes. “Here? Now?”

  He leaned forward. “Yes. I remember a time when you weren’t so picky when it came to the location. You kissed me when we could’ve been caught by someone in the next room. Now, it no longer matters, yet you hesitate. Why?”

  “Everything is different now,” she whispered.

  “Then, it was all an act?” His anger grew with every word. “You pretended to want me, why? To get out of your father’s house? Well, congratulations. You won. You are a countess now.”

  Her mouth fell open as shock registered on her face. She reached out to him, but he jerked away and her hand fell, only to land on his leg. Instead of removing it, she kept it there. His body responded, and his breathing grew strangled. What the bloody hell was she doing to him?

  “That’s not it at all, Christopher,” her voice was full of unshed tears. “I lied. I am scared. Terrified, actually. So much that I don’t know what to do. Please . . . Please punish me quickly. I can’t bear it anymore.”

  Christopher couldn’t have been more stunned if she’d slapped him. Her words had come out in a rush and with her hand clutching his thigh, he suspected she had no idea what she was doing or even saying. He hated that she felt this way, but he was glad she was finally talking to him.

  Grabbing her face between his palms, he forced her to look at him. “First of all, there is no punishment. I don’t like you lying to me, but I’m not going to hurt you because of it. I’m not your father.”

  A tear slipped down her cheek, and he hated the sight. He slid himself forward in his seat and leaned toward her. With measured motions, he brought his face closer to hers to kiss her salty tear away. Then, he continued putting slight kisses over her face. Comforting her felt so natural, and when she wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her lips against his, he rejoiced.

  The passion he’d been missing from her this past month was present, and he was intoxicated by it. By her. His body hummed with desire, and he had the overwhelming urge to tell the driver to skip the luncheon and take them to his townhouse. But, instead he pulled back. He had yet to address her fear and it was likely she needed the support of her family presently.

  However, an hour later as they accepted more well wishes and advice, he regretted his decision to attend this outing. Lord Burleson had invited every family in London, it would seem. Clearly, the man wanted i
t known his daughter had formed an alliance with an earl. The man’s flaunting of Genny, whom Christopher suspected he had abused, irritated Christopher to no end.

  “Well, it’s finally done.” Philip clapped him on the back. “And, here I didn’t think you were going to make it.”

  Christopher lifted an eyebrow and studied his brother. “Why on earth would you think I would change my mind?”

  “You misunderstand. Jacques and I had a bet going. I was fairly certain you were going to call this all off and rush your betrothed off to Gretna Green.”

  With a grin, Christopher shook his head. “I’d be lying if I said it didn’t cross my mind, but I’m glad I waited.”

  “Ah, yes. Anticipation can be sweet.”

  Seeking out his wife, Christopher studied her stance. She didn’t seem entirely comfortable. “It’s not that. My bride has some concerns.”

  “Then, you may want to take a dip in the Thames before heading home.” Philip laughed. “However, I can make this slightly easier for you as I don’t plan on returning to the townhouse tonight.”

  “I’m sure that will help in part. Where do you plan to go?”

  His brother shifted uncomfortably. “I actually won’t be returning for at least a fortnight, as I will no longer be in London.”

  Confused, Christopher followed his brother’s eyes to Miss Auclair and everything became clear. “So, you intend to take her to Scotland?”

  Philip let out a sigh. “That is the plan.”

  “Are you certain that’s what you want?”

  “I want her, and I intend to marry her. There is no question about that. Gretna Green is just so extreme, but I suspect going there would make her very happy, so how can I refuse?”

  “I’m sure she would be just as pleased with a lavish English wedding.”

  Philip shook his head. “My mind is made up. Besides, it appears the women have your bride ready for you.”