Her Perfect Man by Jena Galifany - Chapter 14 A

CHAPTER FOURTEEN - A

Brighton proved to be a pleasant city on the water. Anna was given a room overlooking the sea. She had a serene view from her window. It was the first time she had ever been away from Southampton. She felt totally abandoned except for Michelle, whom Chase had sent along.

Anna stared out of the window as Michelle tended to the luggage and Anna's personal things. The sunset shimmered on the water. The street below her window was a constant parade of coaches and hansom cabs that dropped off guests and luggage. Porters hustled to and fro like a well-trained army doing their best to serve the new arrivals.

Colin would love this view, she thought. She hadn't even the opportunity to send word to tell him what had happened. She hoped Chase didn’t know Colin had been with her on the venture to his office. She wondered how he had discovered she had been there.

The smell of the sea was refreshing. As she looked out, her eyes fell on a familiar face. Her heart stopped. She quickly turned away, and hoped he had not seen her.

"Michelle, do you know whom I just saw?"

Michelle, who was in the bedroom, came to the door. "Who, madam?" She had one of Anna's gowns draped across her arm.

"Walking up the front steps just now. Justin Waring."

"Imagine that," she said, lightly. "All this way from home and Mr. Waring shows up. He is an attractive man—if you don't mind my saying so, ma'am." She blushed at her own words.

"No, I don't mind you having an opinion, Michelle. He is attractive, but frightening. He scares me."

"Why?" She was all innocence, poor child.

"He has a way, that's all," Anna said, not wanting to explain his previous offer.

"He is the kind of man you must learn to watch out for. Nothing but trouble, I’d say."

Michelle nodded, and accepted her words.

A knock came at the door not a moment later. Anna and Michelle exchanged glances.

Michelle moved slowly to the door. Anna tried to look casual as she waited.

Her fear was realized when she heard the familiar voice.

"Ah, Michelle. Very good to see you, my dear."

"Mr. Waring. Madam was telling me she saw you." Anna heard the door close. Mr. Waring came toward her, hands extended. She smiled. Michelle returned to her tasks in the bedroom, which unfortunately left Anna alone with him.

"Anna—my apologies—Mrs. Trent. Imagine my surprise when I saw you just now. I checked at the desk to be sure it was you."

"Mr. Waring." She tried to be cordial. Anna offered her hand, which he readily took. His bold, searching glance swept from her face to her shoes, openly examined every detail of her figure, and brought a smile to his face that made her uncomfortable. "What are you doing in Brighton?"

"Business. I was excited to see you at the window. Where is Chase?"

Anna dreaded telling him she was alone but could think of no way to hide it.

"He is in Southampton," she finally said as she pulled her hand from his grasp. She moved away from him, and turned to look out the window as the memory of their meeting in the parlor flooded her mind. "Chase felt I needed time away from the stress at home and sent me here for a week." When Mr. Waring spoke, he startled her, as he now stood close behind her.

"A week? How wonderful. I, too, will be here for a week." He placed his hands lightly on her shoulders and stroked her arms.

"You are here on business, Mr. Waring?" Anna asked nonchalantly, and moved away from him to check the view from the other window. She wished they were anywhere other than in the solitude of her suite. Anna felt she would be safer if they were outside with observers. Any passersby would be her allies. She took a chair at the small table and gestured for Justin to sit as well.

"Yes, you could call it business. But not without a measurable amount of pleasure—now that you are here." His eyes sparkled with mischief as he pulled his chair closer to her.

"You will undoubtedly be busy most of your stay," Anna said hopefully.

"No, not really. I will only need to be attentive to other matters for a few hours in the late morning. Otherwise, well..." He raised his hands toward her. "I am at your service."

Wonderful.

"How kind of you." Anna smiled.


* * * *

After the first encounter, Anna had to be ever watchful when she and Michelle went out. She supposed during the first two days, she and Mr. Waring coincidentally ended up in the same places. When she shopped or dined, he appeared wherever she went and became their escort for the remainder of the day. They dined together at every meal commencing with that first evening.

On Monday, Anna decided to take her meal in her room to avoid him. Not that his company was unpleasant. Rather, she had become too comfortable with the time they spent together and did not wish them to grow too familiar. Just before she had Michelle order her meal, there was a knock at the door. Anna and Michelle exchanged a knowing glance as Michelle moved toward the door with a shrug. As suspected, Michelle ushered in Mr. Waring.

"Mrs. Trent, I was about to take supper and thought to have your company," he said, crossing the room. He took her hands and deposited a light kiss on each. Michelle blushed, dropped a quick curtsy, and scuttled off to the bedroom.

Anna acknowledged her with a strained smile. How dare she leave me alone with him? Justin watched Michelle's retreat and smiled warmly.

"Could it be Miss Michelle approves of us dining together?"

"I don't know what she thinks, but do you think it wise for us to be seen together at every meal?" Anna asked as she gently freed her hands from his. She quickly seated herself in a chair, and offered the sofa to Justin. He did not allow her the victory of evasion as he knelt beside the chair, and took her hand once more.

"I see nothing wrong with it," he stated. "If you would prefer, we could dine here."

Oh, no. Alarms went off in her head. What could be worse?

Anna quickly countered, "I was just getting ready to go down." She stood, and moved briskly toward her room. "I'll get a shawl and be right with you."

As Anna entered the room, she closed the door in case he chose to follow. Michelle jumped. She looked like a frightened rabbit.

"Madam—uh," she stammered.

"It's all right, Michelle. He makes me nervous, too." Anna confessed with a reassuring smile. She did not confess it was a thrilling sort of nervous, though. "I will be going out to dine with Mr. Waring." Michelle's eyebrows shot upward. "Would you prefer he stay here?"

"Oh, no, madam."

"Then I believe it would be best for me to go with him."

Michelle fetched Anna's shawl from the wardrobe and placed it around her shoulders. Anna retrieved her clutch bag from the bureau. She checked her reflection quickly in the mirror, and saw Michelle standing by the door, her face the picture of anxiety.

"I'm not being fed to the lions, Michelle. I'm only going to dinner and will make it as short an evening as possible. As a matter of fact, you be sure you are gone no more than an hour to have your meal. Get back before I do, in case Mr. Waring decides to extend his visit."

"Yes, madam," Michelle said, and pulled the door open for her.

"Good girl," Anna said.

Justin stood by the window. He seemed deep in thought as he looked out at the darkening sky.

"Shall we go?" Anna turned toward the door. She wanted to get quickly out of the suite and among people.

His thoughts broken, Justin smiled, and followed her out into the hall. As they descended the staircase to the main floor, he kept a respectable distance but once they reached the foyer, as Anna turned toward the dining room, Justin took her arm and ushered her out the front doors to a waiting carriage. Alarms went off once more.

"Mr. Waring, what are you doing?" Anna protested, unable to stop her forward momentum as he quickly guided her into the open carriage. He silently nodded to the driver and slid in beside her. The carriage lurched forward.

"I thought you might enjoy a change. We have eaten at the hotel the last two nights. I want to show you some variety."

Anna pulled her wrap closer around her shoulders, not so much to ward off the cold but as a barrier against whatever Justin might have in mind. They traveled only a short distance and Anna found herself escorted into a small, candle lit dining establishment on a quiet side street. It would have been charming under different circumstances. Tonight, though, it was most alarming.

The dim room was far too conducive to romance and Justin was far too attractive in this light. He personally seated her and took the chair immediately to her right. It was terribly warm in the small room. It caused the need for Anna to remove her shawl, and drape it behind her on the chair.

"I have often thought about bringing you to Brighton," he began in a low tone. "Do you remember my offer?"

So much for hoping he would not bring it up. "Yes, I remember, but I've not thought much about it since then," she lied. She had toyed with the idea several times, more so since she found herself here with him in the same hotel. It lifted her self-esteem when she thought about the possibilities and the intrigue.

"You must call me Justin, Anna. I truly insist, even if it is only when we are alone." Justin leaned close as he spoke, and placed his hand on hers.

"I don't think that would be appropriate." Anna was not sure how to escape his touch. "I’m not so sure we should be alone together, either."

Justin sat back, and laughed. She was relieved he had set her hand free. She folded both in her lap.

Justin continued, "Are you afraid of me?"

"No," she stated offhandedly. "Not at all."

"Then I see no reason why we should not allow ourselves to be alone—unless you don't trust yourself, perhaps?" He raised an inquiring brow.

"Why would I not trust myself?" Her eyebrows rose at his comment. "It would be you I have doubts about."

Justin's eyes opened wide. He achieved a look of innocence she had difficulty believing was not a practiced expression. "What possible doubts could you have about me?"

"You did make advances some months ago to a married woman when her husband was only two rooms away," she reminded him.

"Anna," he said, suddenly serious. "Chase is miles away when he is right next to you. He has his own life and it doesn't seem to include you."

Anna started to protest, but he held up a silencing hand. They waited in silence as the waiter served chilled wine and hors d'oeuvres. Once they were alone again, he held his glass toward her in a silent toast before he sipped the dark red liquid. She, too, tasted of the wine, and found it strong and stimulating. He sat his glass on the table as he continued.

"Chase is wasting your life. I know those are harsh words and it gives me great pain to speak them." He leaned forward, and placed one hand on the back of her chair. He was all sincerity now and much closer than Anna thought he needed to be. "You should be out in society, having fun and making friends. You should be traveling the world, seeing the sights, not sitting in a quiet house, waiting for your ill-tempered husband to take notice of you. When was the last time Chase took you somewhere?"

Anna hated Justin for speaking the truth in this manner. She hated him and, at the same time, agreed with him. She was in turmoil as she tried to decide what to say. She longed for fun and friends. It was part of the reason she married Chase in the first place. Any friends she had made, Chase had ruined with his display of infidelity on Thursday. She could hardly face them now.

"Mr. Waring," she began slowly, then, "Justin." He smiled at the sound of his name. Anna found she enjoyed the familiarity of using it. "I have to agree with what you say. But I am married. I have no recourse now but to stay with him."

"I would not suggest you leave him." Justin moved his hand gently from the chair to her shoulder. With one finger, he traced the neckline of her dress. "I see no reason why we cannot have a bit of society while we are both here. Chase did tell me once to take you away. I could escort you to dinner. Perhaps we could tour the Royal Pavilion. Have you ever seen the Royal Pavilion?"

"I have never been away from Southampton," she confessed.

"Well then, you shall see the sights of Brighton by my side, madam. I will have Edward arrange everything." He lightly squeezed her shoulder; his touch sent a chill through her.

"Who is Edward?"

"My valet also knows much about Brighton, the Pavilion, the theaters, the best restaurants, the gaming rooms—public and private. All we have to do is show up and enjoy ourselves." Justin looked excited. His hand slipped from her shoulder to lightly caress her back as he moved closer. Anna found she couldn’t object to his touch. Perhaps he was right about not trusting herself. Perhaps she should not. Perhaps.

To Be Continued...
___________________________________
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

This book may not be reproduced in whole, or in part, by any means, without the expressed written consent of the author.

Any unauthorized reproduction of this book, other than by written authorization or contract by and with the author, is a violation of Federal Law and will be prosecuted to the full extent of that law.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination, or are fictitiously used. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Any trademarks referred to within this publication are the property of their respective trademark holders.

© 2008 Jena Galifany/Marge Conrad

Her Perfect Man by Jena Galifany - Chapter 13

CHAPTER THIRTEEN
1911—Counsel from a Friend

Colin and Anna sat at the café. "I can't keep living like this. I never know…"

Her words trailed off into silence. It was a lie. She knew where Chase was and whom he was with. She could close her eyes and see them as clear as if she stood beside them. The fact accounted for the redness of her eyes. She could not sleep without seeing them together. The visions sickened her. She began again. "What am I to do?"

"Do what you promised to do. Be his wife." Colin set his cup on the table.

"How can I be his wife when he is hardly ever home to be a husband? You know where he is as well as I do."

"That doesn’t matter. You do what you promised God you would do—to be his wife, till death do you part. Do you remember your part of the vows?"

"Vaguely, yes. I remember. I only wish he remembered his part as well." She sipped her tea and stared out toward the harbor.

"What he does is not your concern. You need only be concerned with what you are supposed to do." Colin reached across the table, took her hand, and folded it in his. "Anna, if you want to retain your comfortable life, the one you have planned so long for, you’ll need to make a few concessions. I know it’s not right, but your husband has a mistress and there is nothing you can do about it. Be there when he wants you and be strong when he’s away." His seriousness gave way to a smile as he released her hand. "Are you willing to give up all you have because he is unfaithful?"

"No, I guess not. He leaves me alone for days, weeks at a time. If he is going to go, why does he not just go and stay there?"

"Why should he give up what he has?" Anna opened her mouth to protest, but Colin raised a hand. He continued, "Because he is a man of wealth and leaving you might damage his reputation and financial standing. Is he so very hard to live with?"

"As difficult as he is to live with, he is hard to live without." She pouted. "No one but you knows how he is and what he is doing. I've not told anyone else. You are the only one I can talk to about this."

"So I am, again, after all these years, the big brother who will protect you. I enjoy the position." He sat back and looked out of the window. "The only thing I can suggest you do is go home and be there when he comes back. Greet him at the door with a loving smile, and a loving embrace like those I have been unable to enjoy in the years since you chose him over me."

Anna was surprised. "I never knew you took any notice of me beyond the position of tease." How she missed those days. If only she could tell Colin how much she had enjoyed his attentions so many years ago.

Colin faced her squarely, and leaned across the table with a sudden seriousness in his demeanor. He spoke in a near-whisper as he eyed the tables around them to see if anyone listened. "You don't know of the many nights I made my way in the dark to your house, fooling myself to think I would have the courage to speak to your father. I was willing to defy my father for you." His voice betrayed fierce emotions. He reached for her hand again, and held it tight. "I would walk to your gate and, at the last moment, look up to see your light on and the fear of rejection would fill my soul. I would turn round and go home again to lay sleepless through the night entertaining thoughts of you until I would ache." He released her hand, and settled back on his chair in total hopelessness.

Anna was surprised by his confession. She had no idea he held such passionate desire for her. "Why did you fear rejection? My father would not have…"

"It was not his rejection I feared to face. It was yours I could not bear to hear. I knew what you wanted in life and I couldn’t have provided it. When you met Chase, I could only step aside."

He reverted to the matter-of-fact Colin he had been moments before, smiling and carefree. The pain in his voice disappeared as suddenly as it had come. "To be near you, I had to befriend Chase. As his friend, I am compelled to counsel you to return home to wait for him." He leaned back in his chair, and spread his hands in resignation.

"Is this all you have to say? Go home and wait for him? How long am I to wait?" She would spend long hours later at home pondering Colin's confession. He had been so passionate she feared further conversation on the matter in a public place.

"As long as it takes for him to come home," he continued. "Invite some of those prissy ladies you socialize with to come keep you company. Have a tea party or whatever it is you women do to keep yourselves occupied while we men are out in the world slaying the dragons and raising your support."

"Raising my support?" Anna almost laughed at his way with words. "He is out for his own pleasure, not for any part of mine. But, as an obedient sister, dear brother, I will do as you say."

Colin stood to offer his arm. He led her through the tables to the coach that waited outside. Shaw held out his hand to help her in.

"Give him a chance to redeem himself," Colin said. "Are you ready to give up the time you have spent together? What is it now, four years?"

The number surprised her. "Only four? It seems like a lifetime. And no, I suppose not."

"There you have it. You are a sensible woman after all." He took her hand and kissed it. "Take care, Miss Anna. Things will work out." He stepped back, closed the door, and nodded to Shaw to drive on.

Anna thought on his words as they made their way home. She would try to not think about Chase while he was gone. She made up some excuse about his whereabouts if anyone asked. She knew gossip would quickly spread through the servants to the surrounding estates but there was nothing she could do so why worry about it? By the time she reached home, she decided to have a tea party.

Michelle met her at the door and took her cloak and bag. The watch pinned to her blouse read seven o'clock. It was not too late to send a few invitations to tea the following afternoon. Anna went to her writing desk in the parlor and quickly wrote out several short invitations for the next day. She gave them to Shaw to deliver.

With that finished, she summoned Mrs. Weathers to make arrangements for the gathering. "I'm sorry I have given you such short notice for setting up this little party. It was a sudden idea I had."

"It is no problem, madam. I understand your loneliness."

"Excuse me? What do you mean?"

"Pardon my frankness, madam, but I have noticed your distress at Mr. Trent being away. Is he to return soon?"

Anna knew this would come up sooner or later. The servants would have heard Chase and her discussing his behavior when he was home. She'd be a fool to think they would not know what was going on. Mrs. Weathers played ignorant of the situation to try to be a comfort.

"He was not sure how long his business in London would take. I hope to hear from him soon," she said, without looking up. She hated to lie for him. It seemed she did it more and more often.

"This gathering will do much to pass the time and cheer you, madam." She bustled out of the room to make arrangements.


* * * *

The day was warm and sunny. Anna decided to have the tea in the side garden by the drive. The party could see the carriages as they arrived to deposit her closest and most entertaining guests. Shaw and Mrs. Weathers arranged table and chairs in the comfort of the shaded area. They served cold chicken, salads of various kinds, cheeses, and meats. Anna enjoyed the day and the company with great delight until her happiness shattered as if it were crystal cast onto a marble floor.

An elaborate coach with curtained windows drew up before the house, one she did not immediately recognize. A cold chill gripped her as she realized it was the one she had seen behind Chase's office. As she watched in utter horror, Chase stepped out. He raked his fingers through his tousled hair and pulled his clothing straight. He pulled his handkerchief from his pocket to wipe the red marks from his mouth.

Anna closed her eyes, and knew what was to come. As all of her guests watched, a graceful arm reached out, and pulled Chase in. When he stood again, the red marks were reapplied to his mouth. He laughed and teased the unseen woman when he finally noticed his audience and Anna watching his humiliating display.

Dropping her napkin, Anna ran as fast as she could past the serving table, into the house. She could not get to her room fast enough. How could she ever face any of her friends again after his blatant display of infidelity?

She thought back to what Colin said the evening before. How could she possibly be the loving wife he counseled her to be? This was the worst thing Chase had done. He could not have done anything to wound her more than humiliate her in front of her guests.

Her insides were on fire. The pain burned through every inch of her being. It hurt, causing her to double over, and she pressed her fist to her mouth to stop from crying out. Her head pounded and she felt her food fight to climb up her throat. She swallowed hard against it. She had to get under control before he came in. She would not give him the satisfaction of seeing her upset like this.

Colin said to be the loving wife. She would be. She set her mind that Chase would never see her cry. She refused to let him know the pain he caused her. She would be strong, completely in control. She dried her tears and checked her face in the mirror. In a last minute act of defiance, she piled her hair up and secured it.

Raising her head proudly, she set her shoulders back. She was ready to face him.

There was a light tap on the door. She knew it was Chase and was in no hurry to answer. She took several deep breaths before she called out in a strong, unfeeling voice, "Who is it?"

"Darling, it's me. May I come in?" His voice was rich with feigned love. It angered her.
   
    "If you wish." Her words were cold.

The door opened and he strolled in as if nothing had happened. He crossed the room and kissed her on the cheek. He continued on to the window, which looked down on the garden where Anna 's guests called for their drivers.

"I see you are entertaining. Is the gathering over so soon?" He turned and looked at her with a questioning, glassy-eyed look. "I believe it is. They came for tea. I doubt they were expecting a show as well."

Anna could contain herself no longer. Without knowing how she got there, she flew to him and, before she could even think of what she was doing, she slapped him as hard as she could across his face. He had the audacity to look shocked. She raised her hand for a second strike but he caught her wrist in mid-swing, and twisted her arm downward.

"Don't do it again, Anna." He glared at her for a long moment. "I'll be in my study." He released her arm and stalked out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Anna stood, stunned at what she had done. Some small part of her was pleased with the way the palm of her hand burned.

Her face felt hot as she put her hands to her cheeks. She turned to look down on the garden and saw Mrs. Weathers return her gaze with sympathy, shaking her head as she turned to clear the buffet from the abandoned party.

In her stubbornness, Anna decided the fight was not over. She had been humiliated in front of her guests and the servants. What did she have to lose? The more she thought about it, the angrier she became. Anna stormed downstairs, flung the study door open and pushed it closed with a slam, not caring who heard. Chase looked up from the papers he was studying.

"You’ve done me the greatest injury," she began. "It is not bad enough you disappear days on end, but now, you have her drop you off in broad daylight in front of, not only the neighbors and servants, but my closest friends." She rushed to his desk from where he glared at her. He leaned back very casually in his chair, and folded his arms across his chest. "How can you be so calm about this? Can you not see what you have done?"

"Don't be so upset, my dear. It will soon be over and you won't have to worry about being humiliated by me again." He spoke softly. A welt had risen on his face. "I promise you this day, Mrs. Trent, as soon as I may arrange it, you will be a divorced woman and free of me forever. Is the thought pleasing to your ears, madam?" He raised his eyebrows as if he offered some desired treat. His dark eyes sparkled.

Anna straightened her back, and tried not to show her shock. "That, sir, is no threat. We both know you have never kept a promise in your life." She stared into his eyes until he looked away. She flung the door open and allowed it to bang into the wall as she crossed the entry hall and mounted the stairs.

Once in her room, she paced back and forth. What would she do if he did fulfill this latest threat? She would have no place to go. Move home to her parents? Never. Mother would be the last place she would go. She wondered how much of the estate she would be able to keep? Would she have enough money to support herself? What of the shame? She pushed the thought away. It was his shame, not hers.

Anna would be his wife for as long as God willed it. She would not be the one to leave. He would have to be the one to go. When he was gone, she would get on with her life. There. She'd said it. She would be all right.


* * * *

Sometime after she was in bed, he came to her. He came in silently and said nothing, but took his pleasure. There was no love on his part and only humiliation on hers. He was her husband and he had his rights. She set her jaw so she would not speak the disgust she felt and turned her face toward the window as she prayed it would soon be over. It was his way to show his perceived dominance and victory. If she fought against it, he would enjoy hurting her; she knew it would only add to his pleasure.

Finally, he slept while she watched out the window until the sun rose. She fell into an exhausted, restless sleep, seeing the laughing face of the woman who shared her husband.


* * * *

"Anna, wake up."

The words were whispered in her ear. She was exhausted and wished to remain in the peaceful world of dreams.

"Anna!"

Anna jolted awake. She opened her eyes. Chase lay beside her. She rolled away from him.

"That's all right. You only have to listen. When you decide to get up, one of the girls will pack your things for a week. I have decided to send you on holiday, as you call it. You need time away, I think."

"What? Where are you sending me?" Anna turned to face him, alarmed at the thought of being sent away. For a whole week?

"Brighton."

"Brighton?"

"You’ll be there for a week. Enjoy it." He threw the covers back, rose, and pulled on his robe. He faced her, his hands in his pockets. "I’ve hired a hansom to deliver you to the train station. You'll be staying at the Grand Hotel Brighton. Your ride will be waiting when you come downstairs."

He smirked at her, waiting for a reaction. She gave him none. "By the way, I believe this is yours." He tossed something onto the bed, wrapped his robe around his body, and left the room.

Anna picked up the shining object and found it to be the cuff link she had apparently left in his office.


To Be Continued...
________________________________________________

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

This book may not be reproduced in whole, or in part, by any means, without the expressed written consent of the author.

Any unauthorized reproduction of this book, other than by written authorization or contract by and with the author, is a violation of Federal Law and will be prosecuted to the full extent of that law.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination, or are fictitiously used. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Any trademarks referred to within this publication are the property of their respective trademark holders.

© 2008 Jena Galifany/Marge Conrad

Her Perfect Man by Jena Galifany - Chapter 12

CHAPTER TWELVE

Once Antonio left the partnership, Chase was home more often. He had to work harder than ever to keep the business afloat, to repair the damage done over the past months. He spent many long nights poring over figures to determine exactly how much money he had lost during the partnership.

Chase had been in his study for a long time. Anna retired to the parlor after dining alone. Chase didn’t want to eat but Mrs. Weathers informed her Chase had consumed most of a large decanter of bourbon. Anna knew it would be safer to remain quietly in the parlor.

Mrs. Weathers answered a knock at the front door. Presently, she came to the parlor door. "Mr. Waring, madam," she announced. Justin Waring entered the parlor after he handed his overcoat to Mrs. Weathers.

Anna was reminded of how young and striking he was, with his dark hair and expressive ice blue eyes. His eyes resembled mirrors that reflected a summer sky set in the handsome complexion of his chiseled face. Lean and muscular, he stood not more than four inches taller than she.

"Mr. Waring." Anna stood. "Chase is in his study."

"Don't disturb him just yet, Mrs. Trent. How are you this evening?"

"Fine. Thank you for asking. Could I offer some refreshment?"

"No, nothing, thank you." Hearing this, Mrs. Weathers left the room.

Justin gestured for Anna to sit, then took a place at a respectable distance beside her on the sofa.

"How is business since Mr. Paulo left the partnership?" Mr. Waring wore a searching expression.

"I don't think it is going very well," Anna confided. "I don't know much about business, but I do know Chase has been in his study many nights going over books and drinking. More than usual on both counts."

"Too bad." A sly smile crept across his lips. "If I had such a lovely lady adorning my parlor I would certainly be beside her instead of soaking my liver in bourbon."

"Chase has a lot on his mind with keeping the business going. As much as he would hate to admit it, he does not want to disappoint his father."

"He doesn't seem to mind disappointing his beautiful wife." The compliment came as a statement.

"Mr. Waring, thank you, but I don't really mind. It gives me a chance to read, to enjoy a quiet evening," she lied, and then added, "now and then."

"If you don't mind my saying, Mrs. Trent, I believe by the look in your eyes it is too often you are alone." He had a devilish look, and his eyes sparkled with excitement. "We should run away together." He spoke in a whisper as he searched the room with his eyes to be sure he was not overheard.

"Mr. Waring." Anna was shocked at his sudden suggestion. "You can't mean it." Shock notwithstanding, she found herself, just for a few heartbeats, excited at the prospect. He was young and adventurous, much like Chase in the early days.

"Oh, but I do." All pretense of levity melted from his face. Anna laughed in her nervousness. Justin moved closer, and reached for her hand. "Think about it, won't you?"

Anna couldn't decide if he played a game or was truly serious. He lightly kissed her fingertips and allowed her hand to slip from his grasp. Their eyes met as she tried to assess his degree of seriousness. He still had a look of mischief about him. Surely this young man would not desire a married woman such as she. He had his whole life ahead of him and could doubtless have any woman he chose. Anna decided he must be merely amusing her, and she laughed again.

"Oh, yes, Mr. Waring," Anna said with great flair. "We should run away together. What is there to stand in our way?"

Justin's eyes reflected the flames in the hearth. Fire in ice crystals. "I shall hold you to it, then," Justin said with a bright smile. "As soon as I may arrange it, I'll send you word." He was most serious.

"Mr. Waring—"

"Justin," he interrupted. "You must call me Justin."

"Mr. Waring," Anna persisted, panicked as the reality of his request invaded her. "I am a married woman. How could I leave with you?" She stood and moved to the hearth to watch the fire to hide her sudden fear. She could hear him move and stiffened when she felt his presence close behind her. Anna turned to look up into his eyes. The flames flickered more intently in them now.

"Anna." Another surge of excitement swelled deep within her as he spoke her name. "I mean what I say. Please, consider it?" His face was not six inches from hers.

Anna could not look away from his young face. All mischief was replaced by a mature realism. She brushed against him to return to the sofa. As she sat, he watched her with hope in his eyes. She was not sure what to say.

Anna finally found her voice. "Do you not fear Mr. Trent?"

He smiled a devastating smile. "Why would I?" he asked, the tension now broken. "We could be in London before he even realized we were missing."

The sad part was that what he said was true.


* * * *

Anna didn't give much credence to Justin's offer, but the idea was refreshing. To think she could gain the attention of someone like Justin Waring gave her a new sense of self-esteem. The way Chase ignored her most of the time, it was a wonderful thought that warmed her for the rest of the evening. A fantasy lover, someone who wanted her more than her own husband did. Yes, Antonio had come to call but only for the sake of conquest. Justin was different. Anna wanted to believe that he desired her simply for herself. He was young and exciting, like Chase had been in the early days of their courting. The fact made him extremely attractive.

Anna read for some time after Justin went to the study to offer his help to Chase. She had difficulty concentrating but persisted through one page after another. The clock chimed eleven, and it left her with no idea what she read in the past two hours. Closing her book, she walked through the entry to the door to Chase's study. She heard his voice rise and fall in anger. Justin tried to reason with Chase on some point, his calm voice interjected with the ravings of her husband.

Anna turned to go up the stairs when something banged against the study door and thudded to the floor. Her first thought was Chase had thrown Justin against the door. She was angered by the thought. Not thinking, she barged into the room, something Chase warned her never to do. She found Justin rising up behind one of the wing-backed chairs. He'd avoided the heavy volume Chase had thrown in his anger. Anna found it lying on the floor, picked it up, and placed it on the desk. Chase, red-faced and breathless, stood behind the desk. The room reeked of bourbon. Papers littered the desk and a few had spilled onto the floor.

Chase looked at Anna, venom in his eyes. "What are you doing in here?"

"I heard something fall. I wanted to see if…" she glanced at Justin before continuing. "If you were all right." She placed the book on the desk and scooped up the papers.

"You've been told to stay out, haven't you, woman?" Chase pulled out his chair and fell heavily into it.

"Yes, but I—"

"Well, then get out," he shouted. "Waring, get this woman out of my house if you can't be of more help to me. Take her somewhere out of my way."

The blood drained from Anna 's face as Chase made his request known loud enough for the entire household to hear. She looked at Justin. He leaned on his arms on the back of the chair. Something flickered in his eyes.

"Whatever you say, Chase." Justin picked up his jacket, took Anna by the arm, and guided her out into the hall. He pulled the door closed behind them. Anna glanced at Chase as the door closed. He looked at his papers again, oblivious to the fact he had given her away. She stood in shocked silence, and stared at the closed door as Justin pulled on his jacket. He led her to the parlor to seat her on the sofa.

He sat beside her, rather closer than she thought he needed to. He leaned close, and spoke in a low voice.

"He doesn't know how easy it would be to arrange." He looked on her with sympathy. "Have you ever been to Brighton?"

Anna 's thoughts were in turmoil. She folded her hands in her lap as she tried to maintain an appearance of calm. "He didn't truly mean it." She looked regretfully at her wedding ring.
   
    "What if he did?"

"He did not," she insisted, louder than she intended to. Anna locked her eyes on his. "He couldn't have." She spoke just above a whisper, but her voice threatened to break with emotion. It took a few moments to regain her composure.

Justin sat silent. Anna could not tell if he felt pity or excitement at the prospect. She felt humiliated. Chase excelled in humiliating her but he had never told her to leave before. He couldn't have really wanted her to.

"Mr. Waring, I must apologize for my husband and his outburst. He is under a lot of pressure and has been drinking. He will realize what he said and will be pleased to find me still here."

Justin smiled, and dropped his gaze to the floor. He shook his head slowly.

"You're missing your golden opportunity to leave this prison and with his blessing to do so," he commented. "I’m willing to take you, if you change your mind—Anna."

"This is my home and he is my husband," she stated.

"In name only. He is no husband to you," Justin observed. He was right and they both knew it.

"Even so, I must stay."

"Whatever pleases you, Mrs. Trent." Justin patted her hand before he stood. "The offer stands," he added as he turned to leave. "Anytime."


To Be Continued...
________________________________________________

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

This book may not be reproduced in whole, or in part, by any means, without the expressed written consent of the author.

Any unauthorized reproduction of this book, other than by written authorization or contract by and with the author, is a violation of Federal Law and will be prosecuted to the full extent of that law.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination, or are fictitiously used. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Any trademarks referred to within this publication are the property of their respective trademark holders.

© 2008 Jena Galifany/Marge Conrad

Her Perfect Man by Jena Galifany - Chapter 11

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Anna did a lot of thinking on the way home from Colin's house. When she arrived, Shaw offered his hand, helped her from the carriage and delivered her to the door. As she entered the house, Mrs. Weathers met her.

"Madam, how was your outing? Is Miss Yarborough well?" she asked, making light conversation as she took Anna's shawl and bag.

Before she could answer, a knock came at the door. Mrs. Weathers and Anna exchanged glances.

"Who would be out at this time of night?" She opened the door to find Antonio Paulo.

"Mr. Paulo," Anna said, surprised. "What are you doing here?"

"I thought I would pay a visit to you—and your husband. Is he here?" Antonio entered the hall. Mrs. Weathers closed the door behind him and ascended the stairs.

Antonio advanced upon Anna. He moved so close he looked down at her. He gave her a charming smile as he caressed her face and bodice with his eyes.

"Good evening, Antonio."

Anna jumped at the booming voice of Chase at the top of the stairs. Antonio looked up, and his smile faded. Chase unrolled his sleeve and fastened his cuff, his coat draped on the rail.

"Chase. You're home," Antonio said. His surprise was obvious and equal to Anna's. For once, she was happy to see Chase home. Anna stepped away from Antonio, and moved across the entry to the base of the stairs. "See who has come for a visit?"

Chase came down the steps as he pulled on his coat. He gave her a peck on the cheek before he proceeded to the mirror to check his appearance.

"So, Antonio, what brings you around?" Chase asked. He didn't bother to turn from his image in the glass.

"I realized how long it had been since we had a visit," he stammered. "I wanted to see how you were getting on."

"I'll leave you gentlemen to talk," Anna said, and watched Chase for a sign of dismissal. He motioned to her with glassy eyes for her to go upstairs. She was quite relieved to comply. "Good night, Mr. Paulo," Anna said with a smile.

"Good night, Mrs. Trent." He followed Chase into the parlor.

"Mrs. Weathers," she called as she ascended the stairs.

Mrs. Weathers met Anna on the stairs, returning after placing her mistress's shawl and bag in her room. "Send up tea, please. I seem to have caught a chill this evening."

"Yes, madam," she replied. "I apologize. I didn't get the opportunity to tell you Mr. Trent had returned."

"No matter. How long was he home before I arrived?" She tried to sound casual.
"Nearly an hour. I'll send up your tea."

Anna smiled her appreciation, then continued to her room, and wondered what would happen after Antonio left.


* * * *

Anna didn't wait long before a solid knock came at her door. She read in front of the fire, and indulged in a cup of tea, when Chase called out in a stern voice.

"Anna, I want to talk to you." His harsh tone put her on edge.

"Come in." She braced herself for the confrontation.

Chase stood before the fire, and glared down at his wife, feet apart, his hands clasped behind his back. He had a look of annoyance in his watery eyes.

"Has Mr. Paulo gone already?" She tried to make idle conversation as she closed her book, and placed it on the table. She gave Chase her complete attention.

"Yes. He has," Chase replied. "Do you know why he came here tonight?"

"No," Anna answered as she tried her best to achieve a look of wide-eyed innocence.

"To see you." Chase answered, louder than she expected. His outburst made her flinch.

"Why would he come to see me?" What had she done? She'd said nothing to Rita about his behavior. She could think of no reason he would want to see her.

"Well, Mrs. Trent, you seem to have the honor of being the only wife of his many acquaintances that he has not, shall we say, 'conquered.' He was looking to complete the set."

Chase was angry. Anna had never seen him jealous. Considering his own activities, it surprised her. He began to pace.

Anna gave a laugh. "You have nothing to fear. I'm not easily 'conquered,' as you well know." She thought about it for a moment. "He actually told you?"

"Humph." He stopped, sat down, and glared into the fire. Anna sat quiet, not sure what to say.

Well, now. The great lover is jealous. Imagine that. Further thought brought to mind the premonition Anna had of Antonio's visit. Chase changed the outcome, at least, by being home. Anna felt relieved when she realized the visions could be changed.

She knelt in front of Chase. "You have nothing to worry about. He couldn't interest me when I have you," she lied. She wasn't interested in either one of them.

"Anna," Chase said, and pulled her to her feet as he stood. He removed his coat, and draped it on the chair. "You would never leave me, would you?"

Anna 's thoughts were in a sudden turmoil. She thought about Chase's history of infidelity, possible involvement with narcotics, and his usual cold treatment of her. How could she answer truthfully? Though if she ever left him, she would have to give up all that she dreamed of. "I'd never leave you."

"Thank you, Anna." He placed his hands on her waist. She stoked her hands from his shoulders down his arms as they kissed. Suddenly, he flinched, and jerked away. "Good night, dear." He grabbed his coat, and swiftly left the room.

How odd. There was blood was on her hand.


* * * *

Anna found she carefully watched everything Chase did, the way he talked and his moods. When he did come home, most of the time his eyes were glassy. She noted his condition was usually accompanied by a good mood. As he continued to spend most of his time away from home, she was no longer upset at his extended absences. In fact, she came to enjoy her time being her own, to do what she pleased, when she pleased.

She was the dutiful wife when he showed up, and made him feel like the king of the castle when in actuality, it was her castle, her life. He was fast becoming only the means of supporting her dream. She realized her mistake in marrying Chase on the night she and Colin found his narcotics. It was a mistake she could do nothing to correct, so she chose to make the best of the situation.

Not many days later, Anna received a note from Mrs. Rita Paulo to request they meet for tea at a posh restaurant. It seemed odd; during all of the time their husbands had been partners, Antonio had never brought her to visit, nor had they ever attended any social engagements together. Anna accepted the invitation.

Shaw drew the coach up before the restaurant at the appointed time. Anna stepped inside, and left behind the bright light of the warm day. She looked around. Before she scanned the room, the headwaiter came to her aid.

"You are Mrs. Trent?" the young man asked. He wore a black tailored suit. He was tall and had dark hair and eyes. Bedroom eyes, her mother used to call them, lids slightly closed as if he had just awoke.

"Yes." Anna smiled. She liked his appearance. He led the way through the tables to a lady who expectantly watched their approach.

"Mrs. Paulo, may I present Mrs. Trent." He seated Anna, and retreated to his post at the door.

"It is so nice to finally visit with you." Anna offered her hand. Rita shook it, and made Anna wonder at the look of pity on her face.

Rita Paulo was a frail lady, thin and drawn. Her face bore the signs of the great stress life with Antonio must place on her, and she looked so much older than her age could possibly be. She was dressed in a beautiful lavender summer dress, frilly and cool, trimmed with white. Her chestnut hair was piled on top of her head with a spray of lavender and gypsum woven delicately throughout. Her skin was pale, but Anna supposed she spent much of her time indoors with her children.

"Mrs. Trent," she began, "I felt it my duty to speak with you."

"Your duty?" Anna questioned. She seemed to be all business, no cordiality at all.

"Yes," she stated flatly. "I have become aware of certain—circumstances—I believe you should be made aware of."

"Such as?" Anna was not enjoying the company of this woman. As much as she pitied her, in that moment, she felt no fondness for her.

"My husband has made me aware of the fact that your husband, Chase Trent, has been spending a great deal of time with one Lydia Stinnette."

Was Lydia what this was about? How dare she!

"Antonio told me that business suffers because of the time and money Mr. Trent has been spending on Miss Stinnette, money that rightfully should be shared between the partners. I felt you should know."

Anna was outraged at the woman's impertinent remarks. She glared directly at her.

"Mrs. Paulo, I don't know where your husband got his ideas or why he would tell you about it, but..." Anna thought back to the conversation she had with Chase. Someone could get hurt, he had warned. Anna swept aside the warning with a mental wave of her hand. "I suggest you look in your own home, madam, before you cast accusations of infidelity."

She looked shocked at Anna 's words.

"What do you mean to imply?" She was so matter-of-fact. She really didn't know what Anna meant.

"It is supposed to imply that, before you start accusing my husband of infidelity and taking money from the company, you should take a good hard look at your own husband. I have been watching him from the time he first came to my home, bragging about his extramarital affairs to Chase and laughing about the fights you and he have had over them. He spends more time in the beds of his friends’ wives than he has probably spent in yours, madam."

Anna was furious at her high attitude. Did she really excuse what Antonio did?

Anna recalled the evening he came to see her, when he thought Chase was with Lydia. Should she mention that? No. Despite her anger, Anna did not want to add to this poor creature's pain and agony any more than she just had.

Rita stared at her wide-eyed as Anna's words penetrated her mind. She sat straight, proper, and blinked as if she were trying to understand Anna's outburst.

She reached a decision as she leaned forward. Anna sipped her water and set the glass down.

"Mrs. Trent. What do you know of my Antonio?" Her voice was controlled and low.

"Mrs. Paulo, I have no desire to talk about your husband's activities, but I ask you to refrain from speaking ill of Chase. Is this a reasonable agreement?" Anna wanted to be civil to her. Rita was the kind of person Anna had to feel sorry for.

As bad as this conversation had begun, Anna wished it to end on a friendly note.

"That is what I thought," she said as she relaxed. "You have no accusations against Antonio."

Poor foolish woman. "Mrs. Paulo—Rita. I could relate to you many things about Mr. Paulo but it would only serve to hurt you and I have no desire to do so." Anna tried to pat her hand in reassurance. Mrs. Paolo pulled away as if Anna carried a disease.

"Because you have nothing to say. You are upset, I am sure, upon hearing about Mr. Trent and I understand your sense of retaliation."

Anna was not about to take this kind of treatment from this woman. She stood, very determined, and picked up her bag from the table.

"Mrs. Paulo," Anna began, a stern note to her voice. "I am aware of my husband's activities with Miss Stinnette. I am also aware your husband has bedded every one of his friends’ wives with the exception of me. I was lucky enough my husband was at home when he chose to call. You may ask either of our husbands to confirm this."

Denial registered on her face. Rita pressed her hand to her mouth as Anna continued.

"The only reason Mr. Trent is seeing Miss Stinnette is, obviously, she has grown tired of Mr. Paulo. Your Antonio has been bedding her for at least half a year or more. I also suppose it is the reason why he told you about Mr. Trent, so you might attempt to cause trouble in our marriage. You may tell your husband I am already aware of all of my husband's activities." Anna thought for a moment before she decided to continue. "Including his cocaine addiction which I am sure, like Lydia, he was also introduced to by your precious Antonio. Good day, Mrs. Paulo."

With that said, Anna turned and walked to the door. She paused long enough for a valet to hail Shaw.

Chase told Anna several days later Mr. Antonio Paulo and family had been called back to Italy due to some family crisis. She could only guess what the crisis might be. So ended the partnership. Some weeks later, Anna received a post from Mr. Paulo address to her. It stated in no uncertain terms the next time they met, one of them would be "carried away in a box".


To Be Continued...
________________________________________________

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

This book may not be reproduced in whole, or in part, by any means, without the expressed written consent of the author.

Any unauthorized reproduction of this book, other than by written authorization or contract by and with the author, is a violation of Federal Law and will be prosecuted to the full extent of that law.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination, or are fictitiously used. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Any trademarks referred to within this publication are the property of their respective trademark holders.

© 2008 Jena Galifany/Marge Conrad

Her Perfect Man by Jena Galifany - Chapter 10

CHAPTER TEN

Chase went missing for days and weeks at a time. Anna didn't have to think very hard to know where he was or with whom. She had what she wanted out of life and tried to be content with it. She had to be or there would be nothing for her at all.

Her loneliness mounted and she needed to get away from the house. Colin called a time or two since they discovered Chase in the company of the other woman but he kept his distance. Anna prayed she hadn't frightened him away with her foolish Intent. Each time she asked his forgiveness, he said there was nothing to forgive. She felt she had foolishly risked their friendship.

"Mrs. Trent—Anna, is Chase home?" Antonio stood in the doorway of the parlor. Anna sat on the sofa.

"He’s at the office." She looked for Mrs. Weathers. "Where you should be as well, Mr. Paulo."

"I thought I would keep you company while he’s gone. Do you mind so very much?" He sat beside her on the sofa, and put his arm behind her shoulders.

"Mr. Paulo, I would think you have better things to do."

He slid closer, his hip now touching hers. Anna tried to get up but he caught her arm. "Where do you think you're going?"

Anna shook her head clear of the vision as she went to her desk and wrote a note to ask Colin to meet her. She folded it as she called for Mrs. Weathers.

"Yes, madam." She met Anna at the parlor door.

"Send Mr. Shaw to me. I have an errand for him. Send him to the parlor. I will meet him there," Anna instructed, as she crossed the entry hall to the stairs.

"Right away, madam."

Anna went to her room to collect her bag and a light shawl before she returned to the parlor. Several minutes passed before Shaw entered the house. He came to the parlor, hat in hand. His eyes lit up as she pulled out the roll of money.

"More detective work, ma'am?" He grinned.

"Not exactly, only a visit that I would like to keep to myself." She peeled off several notes, and held out the money to him. He stepped quickly forward to collect them, and stuff them into his pocket.

"I'll have the carriage around front in no time, ma'am. Right away," he replied.

"You’ll have to take this first," Anna interrupted. She held out the note she had written to Colin. "Take this to Mr. Marsec first and wait for his answer. Then come back to collect me."

"Yes, ma'am." He nodded, and headed out the door. Anna sat down with a book to wait.


* * * *

"Colin, I needed to see you. We need to talk about what happened." The two friends sat in the café. It was a quiet little place with a large window that faced toward the harbor, just as he had described. Anna could see several large ships in port but not much foot activity.

"I don't see what we need to discuss." He smiled. "It was a wonderful opportunity. Regretfully, I could not in all good conscience take advantage of it." He paused. "It was for the wrong reasons. Can we just let it go?"

"I suppose. I have to apologize for my behavior." Anna felt her face warm. "Pretty cheap class of woman, don't you think?"

"Not at all," Colin replied. "I thought it a prime example of my favored class of woman—wanton and willing." He laughed at her blushing cheeks before he turned to a more serious line of questioning. "Where is Chase? Does he know you are here?"

"I've not seen him in three weeks. He has no idea what I do with my life," Anna complained. "He stops in to keep up appearances and to give me money. I get paid two hundred pounds a week to stay home and look happy in front of the servants. Now and then, he brings home a client and we have a dinner to make him look like the perfect husband and gentleman."

"Charades. Sounds like fun," Colin teased.

"Oh, yes, living a lie is so much fun." She smirked.

"I know how that can be," he confessed. "I've been living a lie for years."

"What do you mean?"

"Never mind," he said, returning her smirk. "You were telling me about Chase."

"I’ve been sitting in that house alone for days, weeks at a time. I get money but I don't know where he is getting so much."

"Shipping must be good business this time of year," he offered.

"Not this good."

"Maybe he's made some special deals, exclusive contracts or something."

"Maybe, but do you remember the day we went by the office?"

"How could I ever forget?" His eyes sparkled.

Heat rose in her face. "Not that part. Earlier. I saw a strongbox being unloaded from a coach behind the building. The man unloading it looked very suspicious."

"That means nothing. Most of the men that work around the docks look suspicious. I think it's a requirement," Colin joked.

"I want to find out what was in it."

"Uh-oh, I see another incident in the making. What are you thinking about doing?" He leaned closer.

"I want to look around the office and see what is being shipped. I don't know much about business, but the reports Mr. Hastings brings by the house don't look good enough to account for the money Chase shows up with. I want to know who he is doing business with and what he is shipping."

Colin sat back, digesting the information before he commented. "Do you really think he would keep records if it were something illegal?"

"I don't know. Do you think it could be something illegal?"

"One way to find out," he suggested with brows raised. "We can make another excursion to the office only this time, in the off hours. When would you be able to get away?"

"Just about anytime," she said, obviously not happy about the fact. "Tonight?"

"All right, here's what we will do."


* * * *

Anna called for Shaw as the sun began to set. Trent and Son Shipping would be closed and Anna needed to get to Colin's.

"Mrs. Weathers, I will be out for an hour or two. I will be at Miss Yarborough’s." She hurried out the door to where Shaw waited. Now her prayer was that no one knew that Leslie had gone to London for several days.

Shaw pulled up at the servants’ entrance to avoid being seen. Colin’s valet, Ryan, received her. He was a young man, probably only eighteen or so, but well trained and proper. He helped her from the carriage, and waved Shaw on after Anna stood safely clear.

Ryan stood a little taller than she, with sandy blond hair and light blue eyes. He carried himself as a gentleman. He was lean but with obvious strength showing through his tailored suit. His build was much like Colin’s, though a bit shorter. He escorted Anna through the kitchen entrance to the parlor where Colin waited. He stood as she entered, and excused Ryan with a look. Ryan bowed compliance, backed from the room, and closed the doors.

"Well, Mrs. Trent, are you ready for another adventure?" Colin obviously looked forward to the planned outing. He looked quite sinister and seductive dressed all in black.

"Yes. I can't thank you enough for helping me." Anna spoke in earnest.

"Just remember you asked me to. If we get caught, be sure to tell the constables it is your husband's office. I would rather be accused of escorting a married woman than being a thief. Less time in prison." He laughed.

"If you are a good boy," Anna teased.

He looked indignant. "I’m always a good boy. I’m a better man, though. Perhaps some day I will have the opportunity to prove it to you. Come with me."

Colin opened the door and led the way up the stairs to a bedroom where they found Ryan had laid out a set of men's clothing. As they entered, Colin held out his hand for the trousers Ryan inspected.

"Anna, these should do better for you. Ryan picked them up today. They should fit you better than my clothes." Handing her the trousers, he pointed out the jacket, shirt, vest and shoes on the bed. The entire outfit was black. "The dark color will make you less noticeable."

Anna rummaged in her bag and retrieved hairpins she deposited on the dressing table beside a black derby. She looked around at the room, and noticed the feminine decor. Catching her wandering eyes, Colin shrugged.

"Elaine's room." He looked around. "I saw no reason to change it. Get ready. Let's complete this business."

"Will madam need assistance in dressing?" Ryan asked with a sly grin.

Colin rushed at the poor boy, and shoved him against the wall. He pressed his forearm across the boy's throat, his face inches from Ryan's.

"Don't you ever speak with disrespect to this woman, do you understand?" Colin's words hissed through his teeth. "Never!"

His anger frightened Anna. She had never seen Colin lose his temper. Ryan's face paled as Colin held him pinned.

"Yes, sir," the young man rasped, staring wide-eyed at his employer. Colin held him pinned for a moment longer. He stepped back, and brushed his hair from his eyes.

"Colin," Anna finally found her voice. "It's all right. He was only making light of the men's clothing. No harm done."

Fear now held Ryan against the wall. Colin gave him a dismissing look, and nodded toward the door. Ryan skirted his employer and nodded apologetically to Anna on his way out.

"I'm sorry," Colin finally said. "I can't stand for anyone to speak ill of or disrespectfully to you. You don't know how hard it is holding my tongue listening to Chase belittle you."

"Ryan is a young boy. He did not mean disrespect. He was making a joke. It amused me." She placed a hand on Colin's shoulder. "Does he have the honor of helping you dress? What a lucky boy."

"Don't tease me, Anna," he concluded as he regained his composure. "Get ready." He left the room, and pulled the door closed.


* * * *

"What a frightening place after dark." Anna shivered.

"Shh." Colin worked the key in the lock. A soft click announced success and they slipped into the dark office. Colin carefully closed the door and locked it.

Anna went straight to the file cabinets, and flipped through the records kept there.

Colin produced a candle from his pocket, lit it, and set it atop the cabinet. After some time of searching, they came up with nothing that indicated large amounts of income or anything questionable.

"He'd be a fool to keep records of such things," Colin pointed out.

"Let's see if there is anything in his office." Anna headed for the closed door.

Gratefully, she found it unlocked. She went directly to Chase's desk as Colin followed with the candle. Anna searched through the top drawer. She found nothing besides the usual business items. She checked the other drawers as well, and found nothing out of the ordinary. The bottom drawer was locked. Colin and Anna exchanged glances.

"Move over there. Let me see what I can do." Colin set the candle on the desk and pulled a penknife from his inside jacket pocket.

"You come prepared, don't you," Anna noted. "You never know." He shrugged. It took him no time to work the lock and pull the drawer open. Inside, they found a leather pouch. The pouch contained a length of cotton twine, a silver spoon, a syringe, and a vial of powder. "Cocaine…" Colin noted in a flat tone.

"What?"

"Does Chase keep his arms covered all of the time?" Colin held up the vial, and looked through it at the candlelight.

"Yes, he does. I never see him without his shirt and usually a jacket as well."

"Even at night?"

"He rarely sleeps with me and when he does, he wears a night shirt."

"What a fool," Colin commented. "Well, if you get the opportunity, see if he has marks on his arms. It would explain a lot of things."

"Like what?" She pulled the long piece of cotton twine from the pouch. "What’s this for?"

"Allow me." Colin removed her cuff link, and shoved the shirt and jacket sleeves up above the elbow. He tied the twine tight around her upper arm with a slipknot. Anna watched as the veins in her arm swelled.

"Oh, my. My hand is going numb." It was the oddest sensation.

"After you get the vein up, you liquefy this, warm it up, and inject it." He held up the vial, and shook it a little. It sparkled in the candlelight.

"Colin, get this thing off of me."

With a gentle tug, the tourniquet slipped free to allow the blood to surge back to her hand. She rubbed her fingers.

"This would explain his mood changes and his money, if he’s selling or smuggling it," Colin commented.

"The more I find out about him, the less I care for him," she confessed as she stared at the vial and the syringe.

Anna watched as Colin returned the items to the pouch. He placed it just as they found it and closed the drawer. "I hope he will think he forgot to lock it. I can get them open but not always relocked." Without looking up from his task, he asked softly, "Do you love him?"

The question struck Anna, and left her unsure how to answer. Her silence prompted Colin to repeat the question a little louder.

"Do you love him, Anna?"

"I don't know. I..." A sudden lump choked off her words.

"Did you ever love him?" Colin turned to face her.

After a long silence, a tear signaled the emotional turbulence going on inside her head and her heart. Colin cupped her face in his palm and wiped at the tear with his thumb. She forced a smile as she turned her eyes up to meet his.

"I don't think I ever did," came her confession.

Colin slowly raised his brows and shook his head. "Then why on earth did you marry him?" he reprimanded her lovingly.

"He was the perfect man."

Colin rolled his eyes and a laugh escaped his lips. "You stubborn little girl," he laughed. "Well, you're stuck with him now. You'll just have to make the best of it. Come on." He blew out the candle. He took her by the hand, and led her through the office to the door.

To Be Continued...
________________________________________________

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This book may not be reproduced in whole, or in part, by any means, without the expressed written consent of the author.

Any unauthorized reproduction of this book, other than by written authorization or contract by and with the author, is a violation of Federal Law and will be prosecuted to the full extent of that law.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination, or are fictitiously used. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Any trademarks referred to within this publication are the property of their respective trademark holders.

© 2008 Jena Galifany/Marge Conrad

Her Perfect Man by Jena Galifany - Chapter 9

CHAPTER NINE


It seemed to take forever to return to Colin's house. When they arrived, Colin took Anna directly across the entry hall and up the stairs to his room. As he predicted, her clothes were hung in the armoire and his bed was made.

"Get changed. I'll wait in the parlor," he directed as he pulled the doors closed.

Anna stood still for a few moments, and tried to compose herself. She took several deep breaths as she caught her reflection in the mirror. As she pulled the hat from her head, her fiery hair cascaded around her shoulders. It seemed to fall in slow motion. She placed the hat on the bureau, and sat on the side of the freshly made bed.

"How could Chase be so cruel? To have her in the office? So everyone will know what he is doing?" she asked her reflection as humiliation and anger roiled within.

Anna looked around at Colin's room then collapsed on the comforter. It felt cool and comfortable. She was so tired she knew that if she did not get up, she would most likely fall asleep. It would not be wise.

It only took a few seconds to kick off her shoes and remove Colin's clothes, leaving them folded on the chair. She started toward the armoire and stopped. Was it the lure of doing something forbidden that was so attractive to Chase? Perhaps.

Anna removed the remainder of her undergarments and slipped under the comforter, nestling into Colin's bed. It was soft and she could smell his cologne on the pillows. The thought of what she was doing excited her more than she could have imagined. She was in Colin's bed, and waited for him to come looking for her. What would happen when he returned? The thought thrilled her. What would it be like to…?

There was a tap on the door. She could scarcely draw breath enough to call out.

"Who is it?" she finally managed to say as she sat up clutching the covering to her throat. The thought of it being Elise crossed her mind.

"Colin. Are you all right?"

Anna bit her lip in indecision. The anticipation consumed her. She could hear her own heart pounding.

"Come in." She lowered the comforter to just above her breasts, excitement built inside of her.

Colin entered the room, and came to an abrupt halt. He drew a deep breath, momentarily frozen in place. He had removed his coat; his chest strained against his vest. He stared—obviously going through the same thought process she had moments before. As his lips curled into his lovely sinful smile, he closed the door, and took great care in securing the lock. With slow and measured steps to the bedside, Colin removed his vest, and tossed it on the chair. He wore a dangerous look in his eyes, which locked on her.

"What do you think you're doing in there?" he asked softly. He sat on the bed, and stroked her arm lightly with his fingertips. His touch sent a shiver of anticipation through her.

"I'm not exactly sure," Anna answered truthfully. "I hoped you might show me what I could be doing in here."

"Anna." He stroked her cheek. "You shouldn't be here and you know it."

He caressed her face. His words reprimanded her but his touch conveyed hidden desire. Anna took his hand to kiss his palm. He combed his fingers upward, and curled them into a handful of her hair. Turning her face upward, he lightly kissed her lips before he moved to her neck and shoulder. Anna closed her eyes as she took in all of the sensations so new to her, sensations she had never before experienced. He hesitated as she lay back against the pillows.

As he hovered above her, Anna ran her palms down his neck to his shoulders and chest. She could feel heat radiating through the thin material of his shirt, and the warmth of his fingertips that caressed her neck. Savoring his touch, she opened each button with trembling fingers, and finally pushed the shirt from his shoulders.

He shook the shirt off, and allowed it to drop to the floor. He tossed the comforter back to stretch himself beside her. Anna found herself wrapped in his arms, his mouth on hers. Passion bloomed and Anna knew in those few moments that she would accept whatever Colin would offer.

His kisses were tender and sweet. His touch was stimulating, yet guarded, a restrained passion, as if an animal fierceness threatened to break forth at any moment.

What she was doing was wrong, but she didn't care, and she reveled in the feel of his body pressed to hers. As she freely responded to his touch, he suddenly pulled away, and sat up with his back to her, his head bowed. He slammed his still-booted feet to the floor.

"What's wrong?" Anna sat up behind him. She pressed her palms to his back, and felt the pounding of his heart.

"Anna, why…?" He paused, breathless. A quiet sigh escaped his lips. He whispered after a long silence, "Is this truly what you want?" He turned to face her. Tiny beads of perspiration dotted his brow.

"Don't you?" She hoped he did.

"Your reasons are what concern me." He raked his fingers through his hair to push it back from his face as he stood. He retrieved her clothes from the armoire; cast them across the bed, his dark eyes on her. "What I want…" He stopped, and eyed her with an unmistakable hunger. "It doesn't matter what I want. I won't be a tool of revenge for you to use against your husband."

Anna realized he was right. She felt suddenly ashamed, and gathered the comforter to cover her body. "I'm so sorry."

"I'm sorry, too." He drew a discontented breath, his fists momentarily curled at his sides. "More than you will ever know." He stroked her cheek tenderly once more, scooped his shirt off the floor and left the room with the slam of the door.

To Be Continued...
______________________________________________

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This book may not be reproduced in whole, or in part, by any means, without the expressed written consent of the author.

Any unauthorized reproduction of this book, other than by written authorization or contract by and with the author, is a violation of Federal Law and will be prosecuted to the full extent of that law.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination, or are fictitiously used. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Any trademarks referred to within this publication are the property of their respective trademark holders.

© 2008 Jena Galifany/Marge Conrad

Her Perfect Man by Jena Galifany - Chapter 8

Chapter 8

"Can we do something special to celebrate your birthday this year?" They sat together at breakfast, something that rarely happened. Chase was usually gone when Anna awoke. She often wondered how he seemed to function on such a small amount of sleep as he did.

"I am doing something special. I’m going to a reception with my friend, Justin. He promises this reception will be like nothing I have ever attended. It should prove to be an exciting experience." He didn't look up from his paper as he spoke.

"Oh," Anna said, surprised. "I thought we might do something together. We spend so little time together these days. Where is the reception to be?"

"I don't know. Justin said he's been to these things before. A lot of business people, you know the kind. You would be bored and out of place, Anna."

"Then I guess I’ll stay home," Anna said, resigned to another night alone.

"There's a good girl," he said, absently.

Anna felt like a well-trained dog.


* * * *

Later in the evening, Anna was introduced to Mr. Justin Waring. He was tall with dark hair and ice blue eyes, very attractive. His voice was soft and soothing.

"Mrs. Trent, I want you to be assured I will keep an eye on your husband so nothing happens to him." Mr. Waring was a smooth talker. "I will take good care of him, I promise you."

Mr. Waring took her hand and folded it in his. He had unusually expressive eyes. He gave caressing looks and expressions one could feel. Anna could hear desire sing in the cool blue depths. It was most unnerving. He held her hand until they heard Chase come to the top of the stairs.

"Shh. Our little secret," he whispered. He kissed her hand, released it, and quickly stepped away. How amusing, though disconcerting, he was.

"Anna, are you entertaining Justin?" Chase descended, and pulled on his jacket.

"He is entertaining me. Will you be out late?" Anna helped Chase with his collar.

"Thank you. I don't know, probably just a few hours." He kissed her on the forehead and headed for the front door. "Don't worry, I'll be back in a while. Shaw can drive you if you have a need. Come, Justin." Chase disappeared out the door with Justin trailing behind. Justin turned, gave her another caress with his eyes, and winked.


* * * *

Anna spent the first part of the night reading—and pacing. The clock on the mantle chimed eleven before she knew it. She was tired but didn’t want to sleep until Chase was safely home. As the hours ticked by, she paced the floor of the parlor and later the floor of her bedroom, as she watched out of the window for any sign of his arrival.

At one point, a carriage halted before the house, then started off again. Her heart was in her throat when the clock struck three. She alternated between anger and fear. What could have happened to him? It would be better if he came home when she was afraid and worried.

Anna didn't know what time she fell asleep. It was sometime after four chimes.

A dark haze surrounded her. Chase sat at a table, drinking. His eyes sparkled, the way they did when he was being charming. He chatted. The other person was not in view.

The room melted into a bedroom. Chase undressed. His coat was gone and his vest and shirt hung open, his chest exposed. He removed the links from his cuffs. It looked as if he were preparing for bed. The sparkle was still in his eyes. A slender arm came into view, caught him by his vest, and pulled him. The hand had carefully manicured nails and several glittering rings.

* * * *

When Anna awoke, the sun blazed through the curtains she'd left open all night. She was still dressed and had, at some point in the early morning, rolled up in the comforter.

When she realized where she was, Anna dragged herself off the bed and tiptoed down the hall to Chase's room. She opened the door carefully so as not to wake him. She only needed a glimpse to know he was home safe. As the light from the window in the hall spilled through the opened door, she could see his bed had not been slept in. The clock on the mantle down stairs struck seven.

Numb with fear, Anna made her way back to her room and dressed. She felt as if she walked in a dream state. She was here but not really. This could not have happened. He couldn’t do this to her.

Anna sat down on the bed, and tried to think. It had to be her imagination. She was overly tired. She just needed sleep and her mind was wild with fears that could not be real. She looked around at the room and realized she had to get out of it. It was too quiet.

She rushed from the room, down the stairs to find Mrs. Weathers as she received a note from a boy from the company. When she heard Anna come down the stairs, she dismissed the boy and handed Anna the note as she closed the door.

"My Dearest Anna" was on the outside in Chase's handwriting.

"Thank you, Mrs. Weathers. Could I have some tea, please? I'll be in the parlor."

"Yes, madam, right away." She hurried away. Anna didn't really want the tea but didn't want Mrs. Weathers to see the note. She wanted to read in solitude. Her hands shook as she broke the seal.

My Dearest Anna,

I am so sorry I did not make it home last night. Justin was engaged in some business dealings. He completely forgot about me. He stranded me, with no way home. I was able to contact Antonio to come get me early this morning. I thought it best to come to work instead of waking you by coming home. I sat up most of the night talking but was able to find a bed to get a little sleep.

Oh, he found a bed all right, but sleep was not what he had done. Anna knew it. She had seen it. She didn't know how, but she had seen it as if she had stood beside the bed her husband had entertained another woman in all night. The visions haunted her in the early morning between dark and light.

A watery picture invaded her mind. It began with Chase as he made love to a faceless woman, and then merged suddenly into dark blue waves that washed over a man's face. She couldn't identify the blurred features covered in a sea of dark blue, almost black, shimmering liquid. Panic filled the man's eyes as he was swallowed by blue-black darkness.

Anna forced the vision from her mind to concentrate on the note.

Don't worry about me. I will explain when I come home this evening.

With Love,

Chase

"Well, Mr. Trent, I don't think I want to hear your version of the story. I know it well enough." She tucked the note into the pocket of her dress as Mrs. Weathers brought in the tea service and set it on the table. "Thank you."

"Madam, begging your pardon, but is all well with Mr. Trent? I noticed his room is empty. Is he all right?"

She wrung her hands, probably as fearful for his safety as Anna had been.

"He is at work. He was left behind last night when Mr. Waring was called away. He went to work as soon as he could get transportation this morning. It’s nothing to worry about, Mrs. Weathers, nothing at all. I have a little chill. Please have Michelle light a fire." Anna stared at the empty grate of the fireplace. She did not want to look directly at Mrs. Weathers; the woman always knew when something was wrong.

"Right away, madam." She left the room.

In a few minutes, Michelle had a small blaze burning in the grate. It was just enough to soothe Anna's shivering. She shivered not from the cold of the room, but the coldness of her husband's heart. She thought about him and his wicked ways as she walked to the grate, tossed the note into the flames, and watched it burn.
   

* * * *

It had been a long time since Anna had visited the offices. She decided to drop by to see for herself he was actually there. She instructed Mrs. Weathers to inform Shaw she would like to go out and to bring the carriage round.

"But, madam, would you like to eat first before you go out?" she questioned.

"No," Anna said as she recalled Colin's offer. "As a matter of fact, I think I will eat at a little café I’ve heard about."

Mrs. Weathers dropped a hasty courtesy and bustled off to tend to her mistress's instruction.

Anna returned to her room for her bag and a shawl. By the time she returned to the entry, the front door stood open and Shaw waited outside. He helped her into the carriage and started to climb up to the driver's box.

"Mr. Shaw?"

"Yes, ma'am." He stopped short, and pulled his hat from his head.

Anna leaned closer to the open window and his face framed there. "Mr. Shaw, can you keep a secret?"

A sinful smile curled his lips and his blue eyes sparked with excitement.

"Yes, ma'am, and what would our secret be?" He raised an inquiring eyebrow.

Anna knew she could be making a big mistake taking Shaw into her confidence, but she needed his complete devotion in order to accomplish her mission. He could turn on her and tell Chase everything or he could become Anna's most trusted servant. She had to take the chance.

"Mr. Shaw, if it is worth doubling your salary, you can share my secret. Are you willing to be trusted?" She pulled a bundle of money from her bag. He eyed the stack of notes with a grin. Anna peeled off several notes and tucked them into his shirt pocket.

"I am your most trusted servant, ma'am. And where might we be going this fine morning?" He patted the shirt pocket closed.

"Just what I like to hear." Anna slid back into the seat. She tucked the money back into her bag and pulled the strings to close it. She looked him in the eyes.

"First, we are going to go and pick up Mr. Marsec, then we are going to play detective. Do you have any questions?"

"None at all, ma'am. All of my questions have been answered right here." He patted his pocket once more. He climbed into the driver's box and started off toward Colin's house.


* * * *

"You know you are out for heartbreak if you pursue this course of action, don't you, Anna?"

Colin had not quite finished his breakfast when Anna invaded his dining room. Shaw agreed to drop her off and wait down the street to avoid having the carriage sit before Colin's house.

Anna tried to explain. "I would like to go check on Chase, to see if he is at work or not."

Colin paced about thoughtfully. "If he catches you, you may be in real danger. He has a fearsome temper."

"How well I know. I want to know what he is up to. If I find out more than I already know, what is the difference? He spent last night out and…" She hesitated. "He wasn’t alone." She felt shamed as she told Colin. He stopped pacing and gave her a pitiable look. He did not appear surprised.

"How do you know he was not alone?" Colin returned to his chair at the head of the table.

"Just suffice it to say I know." She looked down, not wanting to confess to him she could "see" things before they happened. Why should he believe her? He may think she had gone over the edge.

Anna wondered herself. At this point, she needed her only trusted and true friend. She continued, "What I want to do now is to go to the office and see if he’s there."

"And if he is not?"

"I'll worry about it when or if it happens," she said flatly. "I do want you to go with me."

"Why? If Chase is there, don't you think it would look a bit suspicious? I have made many mistakes in my life but I have yet to be accused of running around with another man's wife. I'd really like to keep it that way," he joked.

"Are you willing to help me or not, Colin?" Anna jumped up, short on patience. She grabbed her bag from the table and whirled toward the door, not giving him time to answer. Colin leapt from his chair and caught her by the arm.

"Hold on, Anna. If you go off like this, you will most certainly get caught." He returned her to the chair and sat her down. He pulled his chair closer. "Now, what exactly are you planning to do? Do you have an excuse for being there if he catches you?"

"I hadn't thought about it."

"All right, I will take you in my trap. We would be less likely to draw attention. We'll stay off of the main street as well. Then, when we get close, we will walk. You do remember how to walk, don't you, Mrs. Trent?"

Anna slapped him on the arm. It brought a smile to his lips and a sparkle to his dark eyes.

"Thank you," he said, sincerely. "The area should be crowded during business hours and we could possibly get by without being seen even if we walked right up to the front windows. They are on the ground floor, aren't they?"

"Yes, they are located at the harbor and there is always a great deal of foot traffic and activity there. The office backs up to the docks. You sound like you have done this sort of thing before," she added as an afterthought. He just grinned.

"Let's just call it a 'gypsy' thing, all right?" It was all he would admit to.

"You’ll have to change, though," Colin said as he eyed her dress. "You’d attract too much attention in pink."

"Just what do you suggest I change into? Your clothes?" She smirked.

"As a matter of fact, it's not a bad idea. Come with me." Colin led her through the entry and up the stairs.

A knot of excitement grew in her stomach as she entered his bedroom. She looked around as he opened the armoire, which stood to the left of the door. The room was large and bright as sunlight beamed through the white lace sheers.

Heavier dark blue brocade curtains were pulled back to frame the French doors that led to the balcony on the right.

A huge, unmade bed with oak tables on either side stood to the left. On the far wall was a large white fireplace. Above the mantle was the painting of a dark-haired woman in a flowing white off-the-shoulder gown. She was decorated with jewels at throat and wrists, and held a single red rose in her gloved hands. Elaine, Anna supposed.

A smaller image in a silver frame sat on the mantle. Anna moved closer to clearly see it. She was surprised to see the likeness of a young girl who wore less than elegant clothing. Her hair was pulled up and secured by tortoise shell combs.

Her dress was eyelet lace over green cotton that matched her eyes. Anna remembered her father had the picture made when she was fourteen years old. She wondered how Colin had come to have it. She felt her cheeks warm.

"I'll be with you in a moment," came Colin's voice from the armoire.

Anna moved to the French doors that led out to the balcony overlooking a small rose garden. Elise, his housekeeper, clipped beautiful blooms and placed them in a basket on her arm. A fountain danced in the midst of the colorful display. Anna made a mental note to ask to visit his garden sometime in the future.

As she realized where she was, she stepped away from the windows. It would not do well to be seen in Colin's bedroom window by Elise. News traveled quickest from one house to the next through the servants.

Anna turned to find Colin holding several items of clothing. He tossed them on the bed.

"I don't know how much too big they will be but it's the best I can offer."

She lifted the shirt and eyed it, then looked down at her figure. "I hope this will conceal—uh—things," she commented.

Colin grinned. He left the room, and closed the doors behind him. It was a good thing Anna chose to wear flat shoes this day. The trousers felt very strange. She'd never worn a pair before. She had to cinch the belt tight to keep them from falling but the coat concealed it. The trousers were of a proper length.

She looked at herself in the mirror above the chest of drawers. The shirt and vest were snug but with the coat unbuttoned, her endowment was not noticeable.

She needed to do something with her hair. She tried to pile it up and make it flat when there came a rap on the door.

"Come in?"

Colin peeked around the door as he opened it. His eyes sparked with amusement as he stepped into the room and stared at her. A grin crept to his lips and he nodded.

"I think you look very well in my clothes," he commented.

"Thank you, sir," Anna answered. "Maybe we can see you in mine some day."

"Is it an invitation, Anna?" he asked, amazed. "I have wanted for years to get into your clothes." He twitched an eyebrow.

Anna was shocked, but only for a moment. It took her back to the early years when he made such remarks to her almost daily. She had forgotten the feeling of excitement she experienced when he made advances. She had always thought he was teasing but in hindsight, perhaps not. She pushed the thought aside and concentrated on the matter at hand.

Colin tossed a gray derby to her. "See if you can get your hair up under this." He stood behind her and watched in the mirror.

Anna pulled her hair up as tightly as she could and twisted it into a bun. She used the pins she had to secure it. She pressed the derby over her hair and tucked up the few stray wisps that escaped the pins. Her reflection was odd indeed.

"I look like a girl in men's clothing." She frowned at herself.

"Not at a glance, you don't," Colin noted. "I don't think anyone will notice. Just don't walk so pristine, if you can help it. Let's go."

"What about my clothes?" Anna eyed her dress, petticoat, and half-slip that lay strewn on his bed.

"No one will think a thing of it, my dear. Remember I am the wild one with no moral control. Elise knows it. She will simply hang them in the armoire."

"Oh," Anna said. "So this is a habit with you, then?" she commented as she followed him down to the entry hall. He grimaced.

"Just amusing myself while I wait for my true love."

The front door stood open and Ryan brought his trap around. Anna's emotions churned with excitement and fear. Colin helped her into the trap and hopped in beside her.

"Keep your face down and don't talk to anyone, no matter what. Do you understand, Mr. Scott?"

The name made Anna smile. In as deep a voice as she could muster, she answered, "Yes, sir."

"Bloody hell. You best not talk to anyone." Colin laughed as he urged the horse forward.
They stopped long enough to inform Shaw of what they were doing. Shaw's eyes nearly popped out when he saw Mrs. Trent dressed in Mr. Marsec's clothes.

He had a bit of trouble stifling a laugh. "Well, madam, you seem to have—uh—changed." Shaw observed with a quivering grin. Anna nodded, but remained quiet, as Colin instructed.

"Shaw," Colin interrupted. "Drive round for a while and meet us here later.

You won't draw as much attention as you would sitting on the side of the lane."

"Yes, sir, Mr. Marsec. I'll take a ride about town. I’ll stop in when I see you've returned."

"Fine. Get going," Colin said as they set out in the opposite direction.


* * * *

It took no time at all to reach the harbor. As they had hoped, there were droves of people in the area. They left the trap a few blocks from the office and melded with the crowds that walked along. Many were there to book passages and others had business with shipping companies, many of whom were located on the thoroughfare. They had no trouble mingling with the crowd. Anna tried her best to take large steps, and to walk like a man.

Now and then, Colin would smirk as she wrinkled her nose at some filthy beggar who would pass too close to her. She noticed there were many here. The men would simply push by them without giving them a second look. How disgusting. She dare not touch one.

It took only a few minutes to come to the office of Trent & Son Shipping Agents. Anna took a deep breath, and fell in step behind Colin as he strolled past the storefront. She glanced idly in as she walked, and tried not to stare. A clerk wrote orders as he received them from two finely dressed gentlemen.

Anna felt relieved to see Chase there, as charming as could be, as he personally handled the transaction of these customers. He talked, and motioned with his hands as he always did. She felt much better, thrilled to find him there. She pulled down on the front of her derby and continued on. Colin had passed by and waited at the corner.

"Well, did you see what you wanted to see?" he asked as he looked around.

"Oh, yes," Anna said, and nearly threw her arms around him in joy. As she realized how odd they would look, she jerked her arms down. "He is working."

Her joy was cut short as she spied a coach with curtained windows at the side of the building.

Chase leapt from the coach, handkerchief in hand, and wiped the red from his mouth. A slender arm reached out to pull him in. Once he climbed out again the red had been freshly applied. He wiped at his smiling mouth again.

Anna shook her head to dislodge the picture in her mind. A warehouse worker unloaded a strong box from the coach. It looked very heavy and very expensive.

The worker looked around suspiciously. Anna turned her back to him as she caught his eye. She bit her lip in indecision; an awful feeling crept into her being.

"Wait here," she told Colin. She crossed the street, walked back in the direction they had come, and strained to see in the office windows. She found a niche in the building and stood there for a few moments. Chase finished with the gentlemen, and shook hands with them. They left the office. Chase clapped the clerk on the back. A successful deal, Anna imagined.

She fully expected that the two gentlemen would walk around the building and climb into the coach. Instead, they walked in the opposite direction. How odd.

Anna shuddered as she denied the vision, even though she knew who owned the coach.

Chase opened the door to his office. Standing inside was the faceless woman who haunted her. Anna saw all too clearly the face was lovely but evil. The woman smiled and reached for Chase as he closed the door. Anna felt stunned as she watched the clerk frown and shake his head as he eyed the closed door.

Anna lost Colin. She searched the crowd on the corner, but he wasn’t there.

Panic set in, not quite smothering the pain she felt. She tried to move through the crowd, to get back to the corner. Her head down, she fought to control the tears that filled her eyes and made it difficult to see. She had not gone more than a few steps when she bumped into someone.

"Pardon, me, young man," she heard Colin's voice. "I think you'd better come with me." Colin took her by the arm and quickly rushed her down the street, around the corner of a building. "Anna, are you all right?" he questioned after he made sure no one could hear.

"How could he?" Anna sobbed. She wanted to throw herself against Colin's chest. She wanted to be a little girl again, with no pain, no hurt. She wanted to be held, protected from the world and all of its cruelties.

"I know. I saw." Colin looked around. "Let's get you out of here." He took the first opportunity to guide her across the street and hurried back to the trap.


To Be Continued...
______________________________________________

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This book may not be reproduced in whole, or in part, by any means, without the expressed written consent of the author.

Any unauthorized reproduction of this book, other than by written authorization or contract by and with the author, is a violation of Federal Law and will be prosecuted to the full extent of that law.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination, or are fictitiously used. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Any trademarks referred to within this publication are the property of their respective trademark holders.

© 2008 Jena Galifany/Marge Conrad