Page 8 of One Scandal Too Many (Havenwood Academy #1)

I t had rained for three days straight, ensuring that Charlotte, Jaclyn, and Georgina were forced to remain inside. They desperately wanted to take a walk and enjoy the outdoors, but Charlotte couldn’t be upset about the rain. It was essential for everything to grow and bloom. That didn’t mean she particularly enjoyed days upon days of nothing but rain. It made the old castle drafty and cold. Not to mention how gloomy the old building was when nothing but clouds graced the sky.

But today, no gray clouds encased the sky. Nothing but blue and sunshine greeted them, and Charlotte fully intended to take advantage of their good fortune. One never knew when the rain might pay them a call again, after all. She nearly bubbled over with glee at the idea of escaping the confines of the castle.

Charlotte strolled into the sitting room and clapped her hands. “Ladies,” she said with excitement. “We are going to take our leave of the castle and enjoy a midmorning stroll.”

“Are we?” Jaclyn lifted a brow. “I don’t recall agreeing to this endeavor.”

“You’re not fooling anyone,” she said as she narrowed her gaze on Jaclyn. “Lest you forget how well I know you. You’re about to run through the halls screaming with both boredom and for the sheer need to exercise your limbs from inactivity.”

Georgina giggled. The girl was lightening up more and more each day. Charlotte credited Jaclyn for the changes. Her gregarious nature could be infectious under the right circumstances. “I wouldn’t mind a walk,” Georgina said shyly. “I haven’t had a chance to explore much of the school’s grounds. You both promised you would give me a proper tour.”

Jaclyn sat straighter at her words. “You are right,” she said in a gleeful tone. Too gleeful by Charlotte’s estimation. “We did promise.”

Charlotte did not like the way Jaclyn seemed all too happy to keep that promise. She had another one of her schemes working through that devious mind of hers. They might just come to regret this excursion, but at the moment Charlotte couldn’t bring herself to care. “Then we should go prepare for our walk.” She smiled brightly at her two friends. “Let’s see if we can pack a picnic lunch to take with us.”

There were not too many students left at the academy. The school term was ending, and soon the school would be empty, except for the small number of girls who would remain over the summer. There would still be classes, but they would have a lighter schedule. The classes were to keep them occupied. Mrs. Havenwood was of the mind that too much freedom led to wicked behavior. Charlotte didn’t think that the headmistress was wrong in that regard. Besides, she did enjoy some of the classes, and she adored all of the teachers.

But since the number of residents at the castle was less than normal, they didn’t keep a strict meal schedule. As long as they let one of the teachers or Mrs. Havenwood know their plans, a picnic was not out of the realm of possibilities. She liked the idea of staying out longer than usual. It would help ease some of the frustration that had been building within her over their confinement.

“I’ll see to the picnic essentials,” Georgina said. “I would be ready to leave now if not for that.” She smiled at them both. It was serene and beatific. The girl was truly lovely. If only she could work past her everlasting shyness.

“Thank you,” Charlotte said. “I only need to retrieve one thing from upstairs.” She turned to Jaclyn. “Do you require anything?”

She shook her head. “Not at all. I’m perfect as is.” Jaclyn beamed. “I’ll meet you both in the foyer in a quarter hour. Is that enough time?”

“It should be,” Charlotte said. “I won’t be long” She turned toward Georgina. “Do you need more time to pack a picnic?”

She shook her head. “The kitchen staff has kept a lot of cold fare for us to grab when we are hungry. It shouldn’t take long to pack enough for the three of us.” Georgina nodded at them both. “A quarter hour it is, then.”

They all scrambled off to do their errands before they left. Charlotte did not believe for one second that Jaclyn didn’t have something to do. What was her friend up to now? She had a scheme in mind, but what that could be, she did not know. They would discover it soon enough.

Charlotte strolled into her bedchamber and went to her trunk. She pulled out a small quilt that she had rolled up inside. It would be something for them to sit on while they enjoyed their picnic. She tucked it underneath her arm and then went downstairs to meet Jaclyn and Georgina.

Not long after she reached the foyer, Jaclyn joined her. She had gone to do something, or she’d have already been there waiting. Charlotte narrowed her gaze. “What are you planning?”

“You’re always so suspicious.” Jaclyn rolled her eyes. “I cannot discern why. I’ve done nothing to warrant these accusations.”

“Is that so?” Charlotte grinned. “Keep your secrets.” She studied her. “For now. But mark my words: I will have them later.”

Jaclyn didn’t have time to respond to Charlotte. Georgina came rushing toward them with a picnic basket in hand. “My apologies. It took longer than I anticipated.” She glanced at the two of them. “I also took the time to inform Miss Spencer of our plans, as she was in the kitchen when I was preparing the basket.”

“Excellent,” Charlotte said. “That saves time.” And she’d forgotten that little detail. They would have been in certain trouble if they had left without telling one of the teachers of their whereabouts. Charlotte and Jaclyn were still not fully trusted after they had walked to the pond without permission. It wouldn’t help Georgina to have to be watched as well.

They strolled out of the castle and headed toward the path in the woods. There was a meadow where they could have their picnic not long past one of the paths. That meadow was on Havenwood property, so the marquess couldn’t complain that they trespassed on his land. Not that he wouldn’t try, given the opportunity. The meadow bordered his land, and he would still be displeased.

Charlotte became lost in thought as they walked. She enjoyed the warmth of the sun and the serenity of the woods. She closed her eyes briefly and just breathed in the fresh air. The grass was still damp from the constant rain over the past three days. It drenched the bottom of her skirts, but she couldn’t make herself care. She felt the freedom of being outside deep in her bones.

“This is nice,” Georgina said. “I like it here. It’s much better than a stuffy ballroom.”

“I wouldn’t know,” Charlotte said. “I never had a season. I was supposed to have my debut this year, but father believed I need more refinement and left me here.” She would not be angry about that. It hurt, yes, but she liked Havenwood better than home too.

“I had a season,” Jaclyn said. “Well, I had a less than a sennight into a season when—all right, that’s not accurate either.” She frowned. “It was more like a day, or rather a walk in Hyde Park. My official debut wasn’t supposed to happen for another fortnight. But my brother thought it would be safe to allow me to attend a promenade.”

“He was wrong, then?” Georgina asked. “What happened?”

“I would rather not say,” she said sullenly. “If I could forget it, I would.”

“Some scandals are too painful to discuss.” Especially when they led to exile from society. “We are both hoping that after another year at Havenwood we can have our debuts.” Actually, Charlotte would like to remain at Havenwood forever. Her father would only make her life difficult, and he would certainly choose her husband for her. She fully believed whatever gentleman he chose she would find unacceptable. One day she might have to look into other options... she feared where that might lead her. Women had few choices to lean into.

“I understand,” Georgina said. “If you ever wish to discuss it, I would never tell a soul. I promise.”

“That is kind of you,” Jaclyn said. “And perhaps one or both of us will speak of it one day. For now, let’s just enjoy this day.”

They walked out of the woods and into the meadow that they had permission to walk through. “This is so lovely,” Georgina said. Happiness flowed all over her face.

“It is, isn’t it?” That joy spread over Charlotte as well. She frowned as she saw horses in the distance. Three horses, with three gentlemen mounted on them. What were the chances that the Marquess of Easton and his guests were out riding? Apparently quite good. She cursed under her breath and prayed they didn’t ruin their picnic.

*

Declan had woken up relieved to discover that it had finally stopped raining. His mother had been relentless about her idea for a house party, and he had been unable to escape her and her constant harping. He would either have to give in and allow her to have the house party or pack up and leave the estate for her to do as she pleased. One way or another, he would have some sort of peace. However, leaving would guarantee that more than giving in and attending her party.

He had gone in search of Amberwood and Foxmoore after he broke his fast and suggested they go for a ride. It was the only way that he could think of to escape his mother for a few hours. He would have to return eventually and go over more ledgers with his estate manager, but for now he had a brief moment of joy at being away from the manor and his mother.

“This was a grand idea,” Foxmoore said. They had all stopped at the edge of a meadow that bordered Declan’s estate.

“Maybe we should visit that pond of yours again,” Amberwood said. “I wouldn’t mind a swim.”

Declan considered it for a moment and was about to agree when the sight of three ladies caught his attention. He stared into the distance and grimaced. He could not fault her for coming to the meadow. It was technically part of the Havenwood property. If they continued along, then he would be off the Easton estate and encroaching on the school’s land. Still, he was tempted to press his knee into his horse and urge the stallion into a gallop to rush to her side. She had been a constant in his mind for days now, and she haunted his dreams at night.

“What is it you’re looking at?” Foxmoore asked. He turned his gaze toward the ladies and then grinned. “Should we join them?” He motioned toward the three ladies strolling through the meadow.

“I’m not sure that is wise,” Declan said. Nothing was wise where Lady Charlotte Beckett was concerned. Still, he wanted to follow Foxmoore’s suggestion and join them. They looked like they were having fun walking together. They seemed... happy. Declan rarely felt that kind of joy, and he wanted some of it for himself.

“It couldn’t hurt,” Amberwood said. “Or would you rather return to listen to your mother’s diatribe on the fine attributes of a house party and how it will help you select your future wife?”

Declan glared at him. “What I am hearing is you wish for me to tell my mother to have a house party and help you select a bride.” He flashed him a wicked grin. “I’ll be sure to inform her upon our return.”

“No need to do me that sort of favor.” The duke shuddered. “I need no assistance finding a woman to be my wife. Ladies nearly throw themselves at me when I enter a room. I wish they wouldn’t.” It was an old complaint, but Declan understood his reservations nonetheless.

“I say we go over there,” Foxmoore said. “It will be entertaining, at least. I’ve been filled with a bit of ennui lately. It might help to have the company of some charming young ladies.”

That was the last thing Foxmoore needed, but Declan didn’t argue. Especially when he wanted to go over there himself. He didn’t need much to convince him it would be wonderful to spend the afternoon with the three ladies. “All right,” he agreed. “You lead the way.” He gestured toward Foxmoore.

The earl didn’t question Declan’s acquiescence. He just flicked the reins of his horse and was off toward the young ladies. Amberwood sighed and followed, and then Declan did the same. It didn’t take long for them to be upon the three ladies. Charlotte held a quilt in her hand and was spreading it over the ground for them to sit upon.

“Hello, ladies,” Foxmoore greeted them.

Charlotte seemed to be making an attempt at pretending he wasn’t there. She wouldn’t look in his direction. Not that he blamed her. He had been an arse at their last meeting. Even he could recognize that fact, though he’d had his reasons. It was for her own good to dislike him. She’d be less likely to attempt to wander into his garden again now. Though admittedly, he was disappointed that she’d given up so easily.

“Hello,” a girl Declan didn’t recognize said. She had brown hair streaked with gold and a guileless smile that was refreshing. “We probably shouldn’t be talking with you.” She turned toward Lady Jaclyn. “Isn’t that right?”

“It isn’t prudent to have a conversation with gentlemen we are not acquainted with.” Lady Jaclyn shrugged lightly. “However, that one is Lord Easton. He owns the estate that borders Havenwood.” She glared at him. “He made some of his displeasures known recently. I’m not certain why he is even here and not on his land.”

He hadn’t made any friends there, either. Declan sighed. “Perhaps we should begin again.” He wanted to speak with Charlotte, but he did not want to be obvious about it. “We were...” Declan considered his words carefully. “Surprised by our encounter with you at the pond, and it had to be addressed. I may have come off a bit harsh in my concerns.”

Charlotte met his gaze and slowly lifted a brow mocking him. “Pretty words, my lord,” she said in a serene tone that belied the fire in her eyes. “I’m not so certain we should believe them.” She held his gaze as she spoke. “But in the interest of keeping things peaceful, I will reluctantly accept your non-apology.”

“Non-apology?” It was his turn to lift a brow. He didn’t know such a thing existed. “I don’t follow.”

“You didn’t apologize at all, but it almost sounded like one. But I’m no fool, my lord.” She smiled, but it wasn’t a pleasant tilt of her lips. It was almost feral. “Your sort doesn’t feel remorse and rarely, if ever, tells another person they’re sorry.”

She had some strong feelings about him. He had truly taken a wrong turn with her. He should have kissed her, because now he might never have that opportunity again. “That is true. I don’t apologize when I am not in the wrong to begin with. You should not have been near the pond, Lady Charlotte. But I did handle the aftermath poorly.”

“The almost apology with qualifiers.” She grinned. “But we need not dissect it when it won’t aid us in furthering our acquaintance.”

Lady Jaclyn laughed. “Do we want to do that?” She stared at the duke with as much hatred as Charlotte’s voice had held when she spoke to Declan. What had he missed there? Amberwood’s gaze seemed to be glued to Jaclyn as well. He would have to ask the duke about that later. Now was not the time.

“I would not want to disappoint Mrs. Havenwood,” Charlotte said. “So yes, we will be cordial with Lord Easton and his guests.”

Foxmoore dismounted and walked over to them, keeping the reins of his horse in his hands. “May we join you on your picnic?” he asked the lady that Declan hadn’t been introduced to. She glanced away from him. This chit was not like Jaclyn and Charlotte. She was the opposite of those two. Where they were brazen, she was demure.

“We haven’t been properly introduced,” the young lady said, not quite meeting Foxmoore’s gaze.

“Then we should rectify that.” Foxmoore grinned. “I’m the Earl of Foxmoore,” he told her. “That gentleman glaring at us is the Marquess of Easton, and the other one is the Duke of Amberwood.” He bowed before her. “I would be pleased to join you, Lady...”

“Miss,” she corrected him. “I’m Miss Georgina Williams.”

Well, he had a name to go with the girl now. He met Charlotte’s gaze. “Can we join you?”

“I suppose,” she told him. “Our fare might not be to your standards. We did not expect to share any of it.”

“Whatever you have will be acceptable.” He didn’t really care what they had brought to eat. He only wanted the pleasure of her company. He had a lot to undo with her.

“Then by all means,” Charlotte said. “Join us, my lord.” She turned her attention to Amberwood. “Your Grace. It would be our pleasure to share our lowly picnic with all of you.”

“Thank you,” Amberwood said to Charlotte. He pointedly ignored Jaclyn, and she did the same.

The quilt wasn’t quite big enough for all of them, so Declan took a blanket from one of his saddle bags. It was small and rough, but would do for this. They all settled down for the picnic. He prayed they survived it. So far the outcome was uncertain, but he had hopes. At least there were others around so he wasn’t tempted to kiss Charlotte.

He still wanted to, and suspected he always would. But now wasn’t the time to give in to that desire. This picnic would be enough. But later... he would press his lips to hers and hear her moans of pleasure. He nearly groaned as he thought about how much he wanted her. Damn, he was a fool. A fool that desired an innocent miss. Especially as he knew exactly what that would mean for his future.