McNeely, Rachel - The Marquis' Mystical Witch (BookStrand Publishing Romance) Read online

  “It is time,” Wulf said. “My driver will place your bags in the second carriage.”

  He waited. Thea and Elvie stepped out in front of him and descended the stairs. Wulf’s mother stood at the bottom, staring coldly at her new daughter-in-law.

  “Do you wish me to visit next month and introduce you to the neighbors?”

  If she’d asked with even a fake show of kindness, Thea would have said yes. Thea worried about how the gentry would accept her as the lady of the manor. “That won’t be necessary,” Thea said. “However, I do appreciate your gracious offer.”

  His mother said nothing else. She turned and walked toward the small dining room. Thea watched her enter without looking back.

  Wulf moved them along. “Cook packed a breakfast. We should be on our way. It will be late before we get to Radford Hall.” He looked from Thea to Elvie. “I’ll wait outside while you say goodbye. Remember, Elvie, it won’t be long.”

  Elvie nodded and blinked back tears. Thea hugged her. “I’ll be looking forward to you joining us,” Thea said.

  “Have fun. Don’t worry about me. Go. Your husband is waiting.” Elvie pushed her out the door and waved.

  Thea stepped into the luxurious coach and sank onto soft, blue velvet seats. Matching pillows sat against each end. Wulf leaned inside.

  “I’ll ride Batair. The hamper on the floor is your breakfast.”

  “What about you?” Thea asked.

  “I’ve eaten.” He raised a hand and closed the door. Immediately, the coach pulled forward.

  Thea waved at Elvie until she was a black speck in the distance. She looked forward and saw Wulf rode just ahead and to the right of the carriage. What a strange way to start their marriage.

  * * * *

  Wulf let Batair lead the way. The crisp morning air blew away the concerns of the night. He knew his new bride wondered about his behavior. He surprised himself with the conflicting emotions running through him since the wedding.

  A flash of jealousy? Could he have been jealous of his good friend, Jeffrey, when his new wife smiled and gave him attention during their wedding meal? And Reverend Smyth admitted he told Thea about the gossip that he’d murdered his one time friend. Not the best timing, but still she married him though she really didn’t have much of a choice.

  When he talked with her at the stairs last evening, his whole body ached with desire. Her light, flowery fragrance reminded him of the lilies growing by his library and her soft lips tempted him to capture them with his. Most especially when she nibbled at her lower lip, an endearing habit she had when she was worried. He already knew some little things about her.

  As he rode on, he wondered how he would manage this marriage. Thea observed everything around her. How long could he keep the curse a secret? And he had to keep distance between them to prevent having children for he knew already, that given a weak moment, he would take his wife to bed.

  His wedding night had been the first test. He'd stayed in his room and prowled from one side to the other until finally he strode down the corridor to her door. His struggle not to turn the knob and go in and take her almost had him on his knees. But then he heard her footsteps and he moved quickly out of sight. The memory brought a flash of need and heat rolling through him. Ah, yes, his lovely wife was very desirable and totally unaware of her charm.

  He urged Batair forward. He'd ride ahead and make arrangements at the next inn. It was close to noon. They’d stop for a meal. The clouds had rolled away and sunlight shone on them. They'd reach Radford Hall late tonight. He was determined.

  * * * *

  The coach slowed, and Thea looked out to see an inn. Wulf came to the door when the carriage stopped and helped her out. His warm hands took hold of her waist and swung her to the ground, holding her a second longer to let her get her balance.

  “Did you have a good ride?” Thea asked.

  “Yes, Batair was longing for a good run.” He took her arm and led the way inside.

  The dark entranceway blinded Thea for a moment. Wulf placed his hand over hers where it sat lightly on his arm.

  “The private dining room is to the left. I rode ahead and ordered some refreshments

  “How considerate. Thank you.”

  Wulf led Thea into the small dining room. A table sat before a fire and fresh bread, slices of ham and cheese, and bowls of warm soup made Thea realize she was hungry.

  “It all smells delicious,” Thea said.

  Wulf pulled out her chair and then sat to the right of her. He piled her plate high, and Thea ate the food quickly.

  She laughed. “I’m afraid I have eaten in a most unladylike manner, but the meal was excellent.”

  “I've stopped here before,” Wulf said. “The proprietor and his wife always prepare warm, satisfying food.”

  A short stout woman came to the door and, after a brief knock, entered. “Was everything to yer likin’, Lord Radford?”

  “As always, Mrs. Barnes.”

  “Yer horses are changed. My man said to let you know he’d send that stallion of yours on to your estate after he’s rested.”

  “Thank you.” He turned to Thea. “My dear, perhaps you would like to freshen up and meet me outside. We need to leave soon.”

  Thea nodded, and Mrs. Barnes showed her to a small, clean upstairs bedroom. A pitcher of warm water and a basin sat on a small table with white towels. Glancing around the room, Thea saw she had everything she needed. "Thank you, Mrs. Barnes. I'll be down shortly. Mrs. Barnes smiled, then went out and closed the door behind her.

  Thea quickly freshened herself and hurried out to join Wulf. He helped her into the carriage and followed behind, taking the adjacent seat. He signaled to the coachman, and they were once again on their way.

  Thea leaned back against the cushions. She was filled with mixed emotions, excited, scared and hopeful. She glanced across at her husband.

  “If you want to rest, stretch out and sleep,” he said.

  Thea pulled a cushion under her head and lay back closing her eyes, shutting out the disturbing man across from her. She didn’t expect to sleep.

  It was dark and she could hear dogs. Or something howling in the distance. Then a noise and the door handle moved. She opened her eyes wide, trying to see in the blackness of her room. A shadow slipped in and crept toward her. She wanted to scream or move, but her body refused. Thin bony hands reached for her and she managed to curl her hands into fist and connect with his face. He staggered back. “Damn, woman.” He swung his fist.

  Thea screamed. Wulf reached across and gathered her into his arms, then sat back down with her in his lap.

  “Are you all right?” he asked, brushing her hair off her face. Thea tried to sit up, but Wulf held her firmly against him.

  “I think so. It was a horrible dream.” She glanced out at the shadows of late afternoon.

  Wulf trailed his fingers across the side of her face. “You’re tired. A few more hours and we will be home.”

  His eyes darkened into molten gold. She looked away, afraid he might notice her longing to reach up and touch his lips with hers.

  “Can you make it a little longer?”

  “Yes.”

  He moved her from his lap to his side. Then, he put an arm around her and pulled her head down on his shoulder. “You’re safe now.”

  Thea reached up and touched her face where his fingers had been. Her skin still held the warmth and tenderness. Her mouth yearned for his. She didn’t want a convenient marriage with this man. She wanted to be his wife in every way.

  But what did he want? He seemed resolved to keep her at arm’s length, and yet at other times, she seemed close to breaking through the wall he kept between them. Her mama always managed to make her papa forget any irritation he might feel toward his wife. She'd have him laughing and hugging her in a short time. Thea remembered watching their interaction. Thea had much to learn about men, especially the one she married.

  * * * *

  Enclosed
in this small space weakened his resolve. Every time he got near her the desire to reach out and fold her in his arms became more irresistible. Damn, why did he not bring her sister with them? Because the wolf wanted her alone? Had he given in to the wolf’s desire or the man’s? The two were becoming more closely intertwined. Time was running out for any chance he had for happiness. He wanted to make this a real marriage. First, he must break the curse. Until then, he had to stay far away from his bride.

  * * * *

  Home. The lights welcomed them as they turned the curve and road up the drive to the house. His butler opened the front door and hurried down the steps to greet Wulf and his wife as soon as the carriage came to a stop. Wulf had sent a letter earlier, with instructions to have a meal waiting and Lady Radford’s room prepared.

  Wulf stepped out and turned to assist Thea. Her soft gloved hand took his as she stepped down. “Welcome to your new home, Althea.” Wulf watched her carefully to see her reactions. A sweet smile crossed her face.

  “It is lovely.”

  “A bit old fashioned inside. My housekeeper, Mrs. Sanders, will take you on a tour,” he said, as they climbed the steps to the front door. “You may change any of the interior you wish.”

  Thea looked up, surprise on her face. “I may rearrange furniture and paint and change curtains?”

  They stood at the front door. His butler had stepped inside to direct the placement of their cases. Light from the chandelier lit the entranceway. Wulf touched her chin with his fingers and leaned down close to her face. “Any room, except for my study and library.” Her sweet breath wafted warm across his lips. Without hesitation, he touched his lips on hers, gentle and fleeting. Then, he straightened, put out his arm to her, and led her inside to introduce the new Lady Radford to his staff.

  Standing back he observed her, a slight flush still colored her cheeks. She was a temptation he could ill afford. How could he stem the tide of desire that swamped him whenever she was near? He’d made a terrible error in thinking he had such good control.

  Mrs. Sanders offered to take his wife to her room to freshen up before their late-night supper. Wulf nodded, then followed them to the staircase and watched as Althea ascended the stairs to the second floor.

  * * * *

  Thea glanced back just as Wulf disappeared into a room off the entranceway.

  “Don’t worry, Lady Radford. You have plenty of time and then you can enjoy the good food our cook prepared to welcome ye home.” Mrs. Sanders shuffled her along like a mother hen.

  They turned left, and Thea followed Mrs. Sanders down a long narrow corridor. Near the end, Mrs. Sanders opened a door and motioned her in.

  “This is your room. The décor may not be to your taste. You will probably want to make changes.”

  The dark crimson colors made the room darker, even though several candles were lit. Crimson and gold curtains hung at the windows. The bedspread matched the rest of the room. Yes, she definitely planned to decorate her room to suit her taste. Thea’s heart beat fast with excitement. She’d been surprised and pleased when Wulf told her she could do as she wished in the house. She’d not dared to hope for so much freedom to make this truly her home.

  “I’ll leave you. Dottie, the upstairs maid, will come and bring you down to the dining room. Do you need anything right now?”

  “No, thank you, Mrs. Sanders.” Thea watched as the short, stout woman strode off. Shutting her door, she again noted the room's decor. Wulf’s first wife had probably decorated this room. What type of person would enjoy the strong regal colors? Thea didn’t. They were too dark and heavy for her. Tomorrow she'd start looking for materials and order paint or wallpaper to lighten the room and reflect her own style.

  Looking around the room, Thea saw an adjoining door and shivered. Whether from excitement or fear, she wasn't certain. There was so much she didn't know or understand about the man she married. She walked to the two large windows and stared out. In the moonlight, she saw what appeared to be a wide expanse of meadow spreading toward the forest. She recalled her first sight of the house, stately and solid. Was it a refuge for her and Elvie, or not?

  Thea spotted a gold trimmed pitcher and basin sitting on a small table with a mirror hung on the wall above. She quickly washed her face and hands and fluffed the short hair around her face, pleased with how it curled along the edge. She’d have liked it all cut short, but this little bit did make her look somewhat different.

  “Lady Radford.” A young woman stood at her door. “I am to show you to the dining room.”

  Thea followed her back down the stairs and along another corridor. Wulf greeted her at the door.

  “Join me. Our cook has outdone herself. We have a feast.”

  On the oblong mahogany table sat platters of ham, potatoes, bread, and other vegetables and fruit. A place setting was arranged at each end.

  Wulf pulled out her chair. Thea hesitated. Then deciding to be bold and start her new life the way she wanted, she took her plate and silver to the chair on Wulf’s left side.

  “This table is too long. I wouldn’t be able to converse with you from way down there.”

  Wulf appeared surprised, then lifted his shoulders in a casual shrug and came around to pull out the chair where she stood. As they ate, silence filled the room with only the click of silverware or dishes being moved. Thea refused to let the tension ruin her appetite.

  “I plan to start the redecorating with my room,” she told him.

  “I imagined the red and gold colors would not be your choice.”

  Laughter bubbled up. “It reminds me of a queen’s room. I see myself more as the queen’s servant.”

  His intent scrutiny stopped her laughter, and she held his gaze. His warm hand reached out and touched her hair curling around her face.

  “I’m sorry I didn’t talk with you first. I never dreamed you would care if I cut my hair.”

  Her words seemed to wake him from a trance, and he snatched his hand back. “It’s not important.” The words came out rough and tight.

  “You’re wrong. You have done so much for me and I want to be a wife you will be proud to acknowledge.”

  His golden eyes warmed her with their fire. Reaching out, he cupped her face in his hands and ran his thumb across her lips. She turned her face and kissed the inside of his calloused hand.

  He withdrew his hand. “We should finish our meal,” he said, his voice low and raspy. Taking a deep breath, he turned his attention to his food.

  “Perhaps I might play the pianoforte for you tonight,” she suggested.

  For a long moment, he observed her, then he stood and bowed. “Thank you, but I have papers needing my attention. I hope you rest well.” His boots rang across the floor as he left the room.

  Puzzled, Thea put her fork down, her appetite gone. When he had touched her hair and face, a strange longing curled inside her, an aching need for him to touch all of her. She wanted to run after him and throw herself against his long lean body. Would he pull away or would he catch her up in his arms and hold tight? She was not brave enough to test him, at least not yet.

  Thea had no idea how to break through the wall her new husband seemed determined to keep between them. She pushed her chair back. Standing in the doorway to the dining room, the house seemed strangely silent. No one was in sight. She could pull the bell cord, but did not want to disturb anyone. Finding her way back to her room would be her first challenge.

  * * * *

  Wulf stared out the window into the dark and clenched his fist. He’d certainly not handled things well at dinner. He acted more like an awkward oaf than a titled gentleman. His desire for Thea continued to intensify. What was happening to him? Also, the desire to change was so powerful his body ached with holding it back.

  Why fight it? Perhaps a run in the woods might help. Standing in the shadows, he watched Thea go to her room. He waited, then quietly went to his bedroom and locked their connecting door. Thomas, his valet, came in as Wulf tu
rned.

  Wulf’s patience wore thin while Thomas took his time helping him out of his tight jacket and boots and arranging his things neatly. Wulf put on his robe.

  “That will be all, Thomas. I see you have warm water waiting in the tub. I will bathe later. First, I'll read.”

  “As you wish, my lord.” Thomas bowed and left.

  The house settled for the night, only a few creaks could be heard on occasion. Wulf went back to the adjoining door and unlocked it. The room was dark, except for a stream of moonlight. On the bed, he saw a small mound. Going across the room, he looked down on Thea.

  Her head lay on a soft pillow, her black hair a sharp contrast to the snowy white pillowcase. One hand was under her head, the other curled around the covers. He spotted the ruffle around the neck of her nightgown. Every fiber in his being wanted to pull the coverings off and tear the gown to bare her body to his eyes. His lips yearned to kiss her white skin and feel her respond to his desire. Sweat broke out on his brow.

  Wulf stepped back and took a deep breath. She stirred, moved, than settled. He must leave now or he’d never be able to. His body ached to touch her, lay against her, to drown himself in her softness. He practically ran to his door. Closing it, he snapped the lock and leaned against the wood panel. His heart pounded. It was time to change and get away.

  Pushing his large chest of drawers aside, he slipped through the secret door and lit the candle placed at the side of the rock wall. He hurried down and along the narrow passageway to the end. Here he shed his robe and his body began its painful movements to change the man into the large wolf.

  He stretched his muscles and moved toward a small opening in the wall. Sliding through, he came out behind a large hedge. Quickly, he ran to the protecting trees and leapt across a stream. He ran hard along familiar territory.

  His nose picked up the scent of a deer and other small animals. For hours, he ran headlong through the forest, all thoughts clouded by the wolf's enjoyment of the moment. Muscles strained and sweat soaked the brown fur. After a quick plunge in the stream, he stood on the edge of the water and shook himself. Human emotions fueled his energy. Toward dawn, his pace slowed. Tired, he crept toward the edge of the woods. It was late to be returning. Faint light touched the horizon. He waited in the shadows, sensing for humans. No one was about. The powerful wolf sprinted across the open area. For a second, Wulf thought there was movement at an upstairs window.