Edited by klovec
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The Grenville's Ball could be deemed a success. The choicest members of the haut ton were present, the ballroom packed and the champagne flowed. Even with all the components for a perfect evening, Caroline was bored and listless. She didn't even know what her suitor talked about and she didn't care. She wanted to tell her mother she felt ill and escape the ball and go home. Only, she didn't have that luxury. She couldn't waste the opportunity to make a match this season. There were no funds for a second one.
Taking a look at the handsome men that surrounded her – anxious to dance with her, procure her refreshments and converse – she wondered if any of them would offer for her. The thought depressed her. She knew she needed to marry, her livelihood depended on it, but she hoped her heart would be engaged. So far, that didn't seem to be happening. While many of the gentlemen were kind and sweet, they didn't make her heart race or her blood sing. She was beginning to realize her marriage would be one of convenience after all and she would never know true love.
Caught up in her thoughts, she didn't realize Lord Lockwood stopped speaking. Silence echoed in her ears. It had grown so quiet she swore she could have heard a feather falling. Looking to her suitors, she searched for a clue to explain this bizarre happening. Noting their fixed stare towards the entrance of the ballroom, she craned her head to see over the top of the crowd.
It couldn't be. It must be someone else. But it wasn't. There could be no mistaking those hard blue eyes and the cruel smirk that curled his lips. It was he. For a moment, she forgot to breathe when he advanced proudly into the ballroom. The wealthy and powerful stepped aside for him with gasps and mutters and he passed them without a glance. He came closer and closer to her and her heart thundered, blood pounding in her ears. She had to be dreaming. That was it. Lucifer never left the lair he created and he never came to society events. His gaze fell on her and when he hesitated in his stride, she was sure he was about to stop.
Instead, he passed by her and approached his sister, Lady Rebekah. Whispers flooded the air. Would his sister receive him or cut him like everyone else of genteel birth? Niklaus Mikaelson had not stepped foot at or been seen publicly in society with the company of his family since he left home years ago. Everyone waited breathlessly to see what the woman dressed in green silk net, her blonde hair piled on her head would do. Like everyone else, Caroline couldn't help but watch.
"Lady Rebekah," Klaus greeted with a bow.
His sister paused for a long moment before answering, "So you have decided to take your rightful place in society at last." Then in a show of exuberance, she flung her arms around him.
Klaus relaxed in her embrace for only a second before stepping away. "You will destroy your reputation, sister."
"Like I have a care for that now." She smiled, her face lighting up with happiness. "I'm so happy to see you. Your letters cannot hold a candle to seeing you in person. I can't wait until father finds out you came tonight."
"Where are Mikael and mother?"
Rebekah's smile faltered. "They are dining at Lord and Lady Randolph's. They might be making an appearance later. Sage and Finn are here. He is playing cards and I am not sure where she went. But, Nik, don't let any of them keep you away tonight. Mikael can't be allowed to win, to keep you in exile. "
"I left first, remember? He might have disinherited me, but it was my decision to leave and open Lucifer's."
Her eyes clouded over for a minute. "He hates it. He won't allow your name to be spoken at home and he knows his own peers speak of you behind his back, laugh at him in Parliament. I worry what steps he will take next to retaliate."
A frown marred Klaus's brow. "What more can he do that he hasn't done already?"
"Don't ever believe he is finished with you. I won't have you hurt. Be on your guard."
"I always am. You forget how protected I am now in my position."
Rebekah gave him a disdainful look. "You mean in your role as Lucifer? I have heard the stories. There is not a thief, whore or gambler that doesn't owe you a favor. Maybe the nobility as well."
"All of which I put to good use, little sister."
"I wish you would let it all go. Walk away. I worry about you. It is all too dangerous."
Klaus took Rebekah's gloved hand in his, remembering fondly how her small hand used to fit in his whenever she was scared. "Give it time. When my revenge is complete I will make sure Mikael isn't received anywhere. He will wish for death."
"You make me worry even more now." Rebekah squeezed his fingers before letting go. "He is not entirely sane where you are concerned anymore. It is like when we were young, just before he would hurt you. There is a dark look in his eyes that never leaves."
"Probably because he has no one to release his aggression on anymore," Klaus growled, a rush of anger flooding his gut.
"Remember how I always brought cherry cordials for you when…when…" Rebekah faltered, unable to continue the sentence. "You used to love them."
Klaus gave her a tight smile. "The company was always appreciated but I can no longer bear the sight or smell of them." A thought occurred to him and he gazed down at Rebekah intently, his anger giving way to a wave of fear. "He hasn't hurt you? Because if he has, I will not hesitate to kill him."
She shook her head. "He has never touched me. For the most part he is disinterested, except when someone of importance seems interested in a betrothal. Then he becomes the most loving of fathers"
"You need not marry where you don't wish. I would always see to your needs."
"I know that, Nik." Rebekah gazed around the room, as if she sought someone out. "So tell me who has brought you out tonight."
"What if I said it were you?"
Rebekah laughed. "I would know it for a lie. You needn't come here to meet with me."
Klaus lifted her hand to his lips. "I should have. It has been good to see you."
"Such flattery. But I know you. You want something," she said with a pout.
"Only an introduction." His gaze drifted to Lady Caroline. The lady was even more beautiful than he remembered. In her ivory silk gown, trimmed in gold, she glowed in the candlelight with a heavenly light and, for the first time, he felt like he really was Lucifer. She carried purity and an innocence about her that sang to his dark soul. He knew that if he truly cared about her, he would forget this foolish desire of his and leave her be. But he was Lucifer and the devil always collected.
"Lady Caroline Forbes?" She took an appraising glance at the young woman and when she noticed him staring, she swatted his arm with her painted fan. "Don't get caught ogling, Nik. You are being quite noticeable in your intentions. Thank heavens, you had the good sense to see me first before speaking to her. I will help you with this."
Klaus tore his gaze from Caroline. "I bow before your superior wisdom in such matters."
"I wouldn't have thought you would choose her." Rebekah studied the lady in question. "She has no fortune or family connections to recommend her. In fact, I think there was some scandal a few years ago in regards to her father's death, but I don't remember the details. This is her first season and it is well known she needs to make a match. Poor girl. Her mother, Lady Forbes, is chaperoning Lady Caroline, Miss Bennett and Lady Elena and your attentions will not be well received."
To his surprise, Klaus felt a sudden surge of kinship to the lady. He, better than anyone, knew what it was like to be trapped by your life's situation. She needed to marry well, just as he long ago needed to leave his home. "Surely there can be no objection to just a dance?"
"I can see to an introduction. You will have to do the rest," Rebekah looked at Klaus, her eyes dancing with mischief. "I have a feeling I'm going to quite relish the scene we are about to cause."
While the music had resumed, the dance floor was empty. Society focused its attention on him, all the while pretending not to. Klaus didn't mind the eyes on him, over the years he had grown used to the stares and whispers. He took Rebekah's arm and headed towards the vision nearby.
Caroline tried to distract herself, even downing her glass of champagne in one nervous gulp. Her pulse roared into a gallop at the thought that Lucifer spilled her secret to Lady Rebekah. If the Lady knew of her midnight visit to his place, she could ruin her and Elena and most likely take pleasure in doing so.
"Shall I fetch another glass of champagne for you?" One of her suitors asked.
She broke her rule of only ever having one glass at a ball and handed her glass to him to fill. Her legs shook under her. Lady Rebekah and her brother were coming directly to her, their gazes centered on her. Were they coming to expose her?
"Damnation," she swore under her breath. Her gloved hand went to her mouth in shock when the word slipped out. What was wrong with her? A lady never swore, even when in the most dire situations. For a panicked moment, she wondered if anyone had heard her.
When they stopped directly in front of her, she knew to her shame that at least Lucifer recognized her oath by the slow smile that spread across his lips, the way his eyes sparked in amusement. Thankfully, his sister seemed to have missed her grave faux pas.
"Lady Caroline, I would like to present to you my brother, Lord Niklaus Mikaelson, the Earl of Alverstoke. Your Lordship, this is Lady Caroline, daughter of the late William Forbes, Earl of Haverly."
"Lady Caroline." Klaus' voice was a silky drawl.
He bowed before her. Caroline had to be dreaming, caught in the nightmare of the worse kind. When his burning gaze caught hers, she could no longer deny reality. She was being officially presented to the most dissolute and dangerous man in the entire kingdom.
"Lady Caroline," Lady Rebekah reprimanded sharply.
She shook her head, waking from her daze. Caroline for the first time had forgotten her manners. She neglected to curtsey. One always curtseyed when addressed by a gentleman of such rank as Lord Mikaelson.
Ignoring her mistake, Klaus held out his gloved hand. "May I have the honor of a dance?"
"I don't dance," she answered in a faint voice
Lady Rebekah laughed.
She thought she would annoy him with her answer, but her refusal only caused his smile to widen more.
"I think I must insist on a dance. A punishment for your display of shockingly bad manners and language" he teased.
Caroline couldn't believe that he had caused her to forget herself in his presence not once but twice. She didn't swear and she certainly didn't forget her manners. Never before in her life had she behaved so.
"The dance, Lady Caroline."
Hundreds of eyes were trained on her and whispers and twitters grew to a roar and she stood paralyzed.
To her surprise, Lord Lockwood stepped forward. By far her most ardent suitor, his brown eyes glared daggers at Klaus. "The lady is not interested."
Klaus continued to hold out his hand for her, not even sparing Lord Lockwood a glance.
"I don't think you understand." Lord Lockwood's tone became heated. "You're not welcome here."
"The Grenville family would disagree," Klaus replied with boredom. "Would you care to discuss it with them?"
Like he had gotten courage from Lord Lockwood's display, Sir Tomlin spoke up, "I am sure there are plenty of other women that would love to dance with you at your establishment.
Lady Rebekah flicked open her fan noisily, breaking the rising tension. "Have a care, Gentlemen. You forget whom you are dealing with. I wouldn't advise crossing my brother."
For the first time, Klaus showed interest in the gentleman that surrounded Caroline. "Your names, gentleman?"
Sir Tomlin, now suddenly nervous, ran his fingers through his blonde hair, blinking several times. "I can't imagine why that would be necessary."
"I find it very necessary," Klaus replied with a malicious smile.
Caroline knew she had to step in. While Lucifer or Niklaus as his sister introduced him, lived the life of a recluse in the underworld she had no doubt he had the power to ruin these men. Too late to avoid talk, she could only contain the situation and prevent a scandal that would ruin the evening.
With a shaky breath, she placed her hand in his and his fingers curled protectively around hers when he led her away from her entourage. Leading her to the dance floor, the crowd parted to make way for them.
Wrapping his arm around her waist, he led her into the dance. Their bodies seemed to fit together perfectly and he pulled her close to him, even closer than the six inches allowed. Feeling him so near, his body pressed so close to hers, the room spun. Closing her eyes, she focused on the steps of the dance, counting them off one by one. With everyone's eyes on her, she couldn't, wouldn't, embarrass herself by stumbling and mis-stepping.
"Open your eyes, Lady Caroline," he murmured close to her ear. When she didn't respond, he continued, "Would you have everyone think being in my arms has left you swooning with passion?"
Her eyes flew open to find his gaze on her. "More likely they shall think I can't bear the disgrace of being seen dancing with you," she taunted.
The flicker of anger in his eyes, before they once more returned to dark blue pools of impenetrable stillness, had Caroline realizing she poked at a sleeping tiger. There could be no telling what he was capable of when provoked and she had much to lose. "Do you plan to ruin me?"
"If I wished to destroy you, I would have done so by now," he said, with a lazy drawl. "Don't worry, your little secret is safe with me. No one shall know of your visit."
Caroline breathed a sigh of relief. "Then why are you here?"
"To see you, love."
An emotion she couldn't define curled through Caroline's body like a potent wine, leaving her lightheaded. "You didn't need to come here and cause a scene to see me."
"Would you have been at home if I called? Would you have addressed me on the street if I greeted you?" He smiled sardonically at her silence.
"You have no one to blame for that but yourself," Caroline retorted. "Your reputation makes it impossible for a Lady of good breeding to be seen with you."
"Isn't a Lady expected to help out those less fortunate than herself?"
"I don't think you are what is intended by less fortunate."
Klaus laughed and turned his gaze to the crowd that still stood watching them. "Half the people here, those you consider of good breeding, have attended Lucifer's."
"But they don't make it a profession like you have."
"Maybe I want to change that, sweetheart," he said in a silky voice.
Caroline studied him with wariness. "Why?"
"Would you believe me if I told you I fear for my immortal soul?"
"I don't believe you have one," Caroline snapped. Watching his face transform in the candlelight into a cold and almost inhuman mask, she regretted her words.
"Maybe not," he answered coolly. "But then would you believe it is because of a kiss?"
Heat struck Caroline's cheeks. "A kiss,"
"Yes." Klaus gaze caught and held hers, his blue eyes darkening. "Don't tell me it meant nothing to you. I know you felt it too."
"No," she barely breathed. "I felt nothing."
"Liar."
"It was just a kiss. Nothing special." Caroline couldn't believe how easily she lied. That the kiss had been her first and she was quite sure no other kiss would ever measure. Because of that, for her own good, she needed to end their association and forget the kiss ever happened.
"I suppose you are basing this on the numerous kisses you have given and received?" Klaus taunted.
"Of course," Caroline answered quickly – almost too quickly, she realized when he stared at her like a wolf that scented blood.
"Do tell. Where did these kisses take place and with whom?"
"It's so hard to remember. There have been so many".
"So many you don't remember? So many you can longer tell them apart?"
Caroline tilted her head up to meet his gaze. "Yes," she bit out. "So many, yours was of little consequence."
"I don't believe you." A wicked smile twisted his lips.
"Why?" Caroline retorted. She couldn't believe what she was doing. Her whole future depended on her respectability and he had her emotions so twisted in knots she was trying to convince him that she was some kind of loose woman.
Klaus leaned in close, his lips hovering over her ear like a lover's kiss. "Because if you had kissed everyone like you kissed me, you would have ended up compromised and forced into marriage long ago."
Caroline immediately stiffened in his arms and he responded by pulling her flush to him. Through the thin silk of her dress, she swore she could feel every masculine inch of him. Her body throbbed; her flesh growing heated as their waltz transformed to a dance of sensuality.
"Even someone as depraved and evil as I am can recognize innocence. You may be able to lie to yourself, love, but I know the truth," he murmured. "Remember that when you think of our kiss."
Like the raising of a veil, Caroline became once more aware of her surroundings. The tinkling sounds of the orchestra had ceased, Klaus' arm no longer settled around her waist and the dance floor had emptied. They were alone amidst the glittering crowd.
Forcing her lips into a cold smile, Caroline dropped a curtsy to Klaus. He bowed in return and when he offered her his arm, she took it. When he led her back to her suitors, she refused to even so much as glance at him.
"Such a pretty couple the two of you make," Lady Rebekah said, with a mischievous look in the direction of Lord Lockwood and Sir Tomlin.
"I believe the next dance is mine, Lady Caroline?" Lord Lockwood said, looking down his nose at Klaus. He didn't bother to even wait for Klaus to relinquish Caroline before holding out his arm.
Caroline eagerly took Lord Lockwood's arm and let him lead her back to the dance floor. She needed to get away from Klaus and the intense, fevered feelings he aroused in her.
Satisfied they had done their duty in freeing Caroline from Lucifer's evil grasp, her suitors gladly left Klaus and Rebekah alone.
Klaus' gaze followed Caroline.
"Nik, you're staring again," Rebekah huffed.
"Who is the man she dances with?"
"Lord Lockwood. So far he is her suitor most likely to propose. He is looking for a wife and the Lockwood and Forbes families are friends from years back. He grew up with Lady Caroline."
Klaus tried to ignore the stirrings of jealousy. It stung that Lord Lockwood could see her publicly, spend time with her and be received in her home and Klaus couldn't. He was left with trying to manipulate social situations for snippets of time to get to know her better.
"Nik. Caroline is not unaffected by you."
"I know," Klaus answered, smiling at his sister for her soothing words.
"If you want her, it won't be easy," she warned.
"Nothing worth having ever is." Presenting Rebekah his most graceful bow, Klaus headed out of the ballroom ignoring the whispers and murmurs. Reaching the exit, a tall redheaded woman nearly ran right into him to get to the dance floor. "Sage," he greeted, with a slight inclination with his head.
Her mouth fell open in shock. "Niklaus? You really are here?"
"Give my regards to Finn."
Caroline craned her head to catch sight of Klaus. She wanted to make sure he left so she could finally relax. He bowed to a woman she didn't remember ever being introduced to and then was gone. A breath she didn't realize she held slowly leaked from her lungs.
"You're staring again."
The contempt in Tyler's voice forced Caroline's gaze back to him. His normally soft brown eyes gleamed with anger and his mouth was pressed into a thin line.
"I only looked to make sure he left."
"It is a good thing he did before we threw him out. He forgets he is not in the slums anymore. One can't barge into genteel homes and demand dances."
"Maybe he had an invitation?"
Tyler's lip curled in disgust. "I will have to speak to the Grenville's when our dance is finished. I can't believe they could possibly behave so irresponsibly. There are gently bred young ladies here. If he searches for female company he need go no further than his own lair. Which makes me wonder? Why did he pick you of all the ladies here to dance with?"
Caroline's heart quickened at the direct question. Here was the moment she knew was coming. How could she possibly explain Klaus' actions? "Maybe he found me attractive?"
Tyler laughed.
"What? You don't think I am attractive?" Caroline asked, her voice tart.
"It isn't that you aren't attractive. You know that you are." Tyler pulled her closer to him, his arm tightening around her waist. "I wouldn't spend so much time with you if you weren't."
Caroline knew she should be swept up into the dance, swooning at being so near to Tyler. Only she couldn't help but remember the scorch of Klaus' body pressed against hers. She wanted to replicate that with Tyler. Especially, if he were to offer for her. "Then why did you laugh?"
Tyler cleared his throat several times. "It's just why would he come here for a polite dance with you when there are certain places he could find beautiful women who would easily spend time with him for a fee."
"Are you seriously comparing me to a fallen woman?" Caroline demanded.
He flinched at the high pitch of her voice. "I didn't mean it like that. You are taking my words the wrong way."
"How should I take them?"
"Caroline. You are being ridiculous."
The orchestral music started to fade, ending the dance. "Take me back to my mother, please," Caroline's said stiffly.
"Do you really want to end the evening like this?"
She glared at him, lifting her chin.
"Fine." Tyler held out his arm to escort her off the dance floor. "I might not know why Lucifer danced with you, but I am going to make sure it doesn't happen again. Matt and I are going to pay his lair a little visit and make sure he knows his place."
"Please don't. I couldn't bear it if something happened to you." Caroline gripped his arm. They had no business walking into a devils trap which was exactly what Lucifer's Lair was. Klaus probably ate young men like them for breakfast. They would get hurt and she would never forgive herself.
Tyler smiled down at her. "You do care then?"
"Of course I do. Promise me you will leave him alone."
"I guess I can do that. This whole dance was probably a fluke anyway. Most likely the he just wanted to rifle his family up. It's unfortunate they haven't done something about him by now. As long as he stays away from you I have no reason to go see him."
After Klaus' reception tonight, Caroline didn't think she would be seeing him again. The thought had a strange effect on her. One almost of regret. Shaking her head, she dismissed the emotion before it could develop further. She had more important things to focus on. Like finding a husband.
"Caroline...Lord Lockwood. How lovely you two looked on the dance floor," Lady Forbes greeted.
Tyler bowed, handing Caroline over to her mother. "I am sure it was all Caroline."
She smiled at his compliment, trying to ignore her annoyance at his earlier laughter. "You are too kind, Lord Lockwood. Although, I am sure I could only ever be considered attractive." Caroline wanted to take the words back as soon they left her mouth. It was so unladylike of her to bring the subject up. She couldn't help it. His comment earlier still stung.
Her mother glanced from Caroline to Tyler in confusion. "Why Caroline, you are much more than attractive. I am sure Lord Lockwood would agree.
"I suppose, if Lady Caroline would like to put words in my mouth I didn't say. Now, if you will excuse me, I see my mother is looking for me."
Caroline cringed at the severe glance her mother gave her before speaking up, "Do tell Lady Lockwood we are looking forward to having tea with her again."
Tyler gave them a short, abrupt nod. "Of course."
"What happened between the two of you?" her mother asked when Tyler was out of earshot.
"Nothing. Just a small disagreement."
Her mother groaned. "Another one? Do you ever want to get engaged to him? Because he will never offer at the this rate."
"I know." Caroline looked to the floor in misery. Her and her sharp tongue. Why couldn't she just say and do the right thing?
"Caroline, you know we don't have the luxury of being picky. Either you find someone this season or I don't know what happens next. I guess there is the cottage in Shrewsbury, but it will be a hard life, not fit for you. Lord Lockwood is a kind man and a good match for you."
"I understand. I will fix things with Lord Lockwood. It is only a small fuss we are having, after all."
Her mother tipped her chin up with her fingertips. "Good girl. Now tell me about this dance with the Earl of Alverstoke everyone is talking about?"
"Hmmm? I have no idea?" Caroline boldly lied, overcoming her natural inclination to look away from her mother. Instead, she stared directly at her, pretending she had nothing to hide.
"I don't need to tell you how careful you must be with your reputation. It is of outmost importance. We can't be too cautious. Especially, if anyone from the crown ever lets slip what really happened to your father. I don't think we could survive the disgrace."
Caroline bit her lip. "It will be fine, mama. I can't imagine anyone would talk after all this time."
Her mother gave her a weak smile. "We can only hope."
"Caroline!" Elena walked towards her, throwing her arms around her in an embrace. "I have the greatest of news."
Bonnie joined them a strained look on her face.
"If you don't mind, I would like to steal Caroline for just a few minutes, Lady Forbes." Elena practically bounced on her toes.
Her mother looked at them, a smile tugging at her lips. "Of course, girls. I wanted to get some refreshments anyway. Caroline come find me when you are finished here."
Caroline stepped out of Elena's embrace, hoping they weren't causing too much of a scene. She had no wish to be the center of gossip once more that night.
"Aren't you going to ask me what my good news is?" Elena asked coyly.
"Of course. I am only surprised to see you so happy." The last week her dear friend had done nothing but look sadly tragic and mope around. She went to social events and danced, but her eyes were dull. Caroline knew it had something to do with the Salvatore brothers being called home to see their father, but she wisely kept quiet.
Bonnie rolled her eyes at Caroline. They obviously thought the same thing.
"You better let her tell you her news before she explodes," Bonnie said with a sigh.
Elena's cheeks pinked and she never looked lovelier. Her white gown trimmed in roses in the Grecian style made her skin glow and complimented her figure. "I am engaged!"
"To which brother?"
Caroline watched as Elena's smiled at a young man with studious eyes that glowed when he caught her looking at him. He looked like he wanted to come running that very moment to do her bidding.
"Ah. It is Stefan then?"
"How did you guess?" Elena asked, her eyes sparkling.
Bonnie chuckled. "She had only to look at you two. You can't stop staring at one another."
Elena blushed even deeper.
"I am very happy for you." Caroline took Elena's gloved hands in hers, squeezing them. "I can't believe you are going to be an old married woman soon."
"It seems you will be next," Elena teased. "I saw you dancing with Lucifer."
"What did he want?" Bonnie asked, worry creasing her brow. "He wasn't here to blackmail you, was he?"
Caroline shook her head. "I don't think so. He made sure to tell me my secret was safe and I believe him."
"He could only want one thing. To see Caroline again." Elena beamed at her. "I think he is smitten."
"Must we call him Lucifer? Reminds me of some of gram's sermons." Bonnie shuddered. "He is an Earl."
Elena released Caroline's hands and snapped open her fan, peeping over it at Stefan. "I always forget that."
"The Earl probably thinks he can have another kiss." Bonnie moved closer to them, leaning in to gently murmur, "You must take care. Men like him don't easily take no for an answer."
Caroline shivered and she didn't know whether it came from the rush of excitement that shot up her spine, or the foreboding swirling in her stomach.
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The representatives from Rundell, Bridge and Rundell jewelers arrived at The Earl of Alverstoke's London townhouse promptly at ten. They usually did not visit clients in their homes. With the Earl, an exception was made due to his position and his generosity in the past when it came to purchases. Ushered into the drawing room, they busied themselves unpacking their leather attaché cases, lifting out tray after tray of precious gems. Standing at attention behind the jewelry, they eagerly awaited the Earl.
Sauntering into the room, Klaus stopped in front of the glittering display. Gregori followed behind him with steaming porcelain cup of coffee held aloft on a silver tray.
Klaus ran his finger over a diamond necklace, lifting it up he tested the weight of it before shaking his head and placing it back down. "It's too ostentatious."
"Your coffee, Your Lordship," Gregori said.
Absentmindedly, Klaus picked up the coffee cup and took a sip before lifting a ruby necklace and peering at the stones. "They're flawed." He threw the bauble down.
There was a rapping at the front door and Gregori bowed, leaving the room to attend to the caller.
Setting his cup of coffee down, Klaus picked up a simple elegant emerald necklace. The weight was perfect, not too heavy to overwhelm. Light enough Caroline could wear it all night long and it would look stunning hanging from her slender neck, the main stone dangling just above her décolleté.
"Don't bother to announce us, Gregori." The voice came from the doorway to hi study.
Turning around, Klaus glared at his younger brother and greatest annoyance, Kol. Behind him, gold-headed cane in hand followed his older brother Elijah. Both brothers were dressed in the height of fashion from their starched cravats to their champagne polished hessian boots. The only difference that existed between them was their waistcoats. Elijah wore a conservative pearl gray stripe and Kol's a flamboyant crimson red embroidered in gold.
Several years since Mikael disinherited Klaus, his brothers Kol and Elijah never seemed to have gotten the message. They continued to drop in when it would most irritate him. While Kol quite enjoyed Klaus' new lifestyle and access to Lucifer's, Elijah had been very clear in his disapproval. Although, it had been an age since his brother said a word.
"What a most unexpected surprise," Klaus drawled. "Isn't it a bit too early for you to be up, Kol? Especially, after your evening of debauchery? And Elijah, shouldn't you be presiding at some boring estate meeting?"
"How could I stay abed after Elijah shook me out of it to drag me here. My companion did not appreciate the wakeup call," Kol grumbled.
Elijah gave their younger brother a disapproving look. "I'm sure she didn't mind having a chance to be rid of you before her husband came home. I heard Harold Rounden was coming back from the country today."
"In that case I owe you one." Kol winked at Elijah. "You know, she has a pretty sister. Widowed a year. One can only imagine how eager she must be for a tumble."
Elijah grimaced at the suggestion. "I am quite capable of finding my own female companionship."
Klaus growled with impatience. "What exactly is the reason you two are here?"
Elijah sat primly down on one of the chairs in Klaus' study.
"By all means, make yourself at home." Klaus waved his hand mockingly at the furniture in the room.
"Thanks, Nik." Kol plopped himself down on the settee.
Elijah smiled slightly before speaking, "Can you imagine my surprise last night, when enjoying a peaceful smoke at my club, I received the sensational news that Lucifer had been spotted attending a society event? I wanted to run over here immediately and congratulate you on emerging from your cave."
"This is hardly a cave. It's called a lair, Elijah. Lucifer's Lair," Klaus retorted. "A very luxurious one. Perhaps you would like a tour sometime?"
"I'm quite happy to remain ignorant of the activities here." Elijah shuddered in exaggerated horror. "The things I have heard."
"They're all quite true," Kol piped up. "Best fun to be had in all of London here at Nik's. Prettiest whores and the best drinks."
Elijah glared at Kol. "Shouldn't you be studying for Oxford and not wasting your time gallivanting around town?"
"Not you too," Kol groaned. "You're just like father. I have no wish to continue schooling. I spend enough time fighting with him I have no wish to fight with you."
"You are a younger son and as such you need to focus on your studies and find a profession. Either that or marry a nice girl with a large estate to manage. Tell him, Niklaus."
Klaus laughed. "Do you really see Kol rusticating in the country with a wife and a pack of kids?"
"It would be better than the whoring, drinking and gambling he is doing now," Elijah replied, fiddling with his cane. "Besides if he keeps up with this path he will not be the only one disinherited."
"And look at how bad that turned out for, Nik." Kol retorted. "Here he is with his own very club and all of London at his feet."
"The disreputable and deplorable parts. This won't last forever."
Klaus snapped his fingers at the representatives of Rundell's to take the emerald necklace he still held. "Set this aside," he murmured to the jeweler before turning towards his brothers once more. "I am quite happy where I am and if Kol doesn't wish to go back to school I most willing to purchase him a commission in the regiment. I have a feeling a little bloodshed and chaos would be good for him."
"Nik? You would do that?" Kol beamed at his brother.
"Father will have a fit," Elijah sighed.
"Exactly. It would prove most enjoyable." Klaus picked up a sapphire necklace accented with diamonds. "What do you think of this for Rebekah?"
Kol scrunched his nose. "It is pretty enough, I guess. Why?"
Klaus shrugged. "She did me a great favor yesterday I want to see her rewarded."
"I suppose this has to do with the introduction to Lady Caroline she made last night?" Elijah threw Klaus a shrewd look.
"Perhaps." Klaus went very still. "Since you heard about it at the club last night, what exactly is it they are saying?"
"Just the usual nonsense," Elijah replied, his gaze flying to Kol who looked about to speak. Without saying a word, he shook his head at his brother; cutting off what Kol was about to say.
Klaus frowned, his chest tightening with anger. "I suppose they laughed and sneered at the club about my audacity in dancing with Lady Caroline?"
"Why would you think that?" Elijah cleared his throat. "All the talk was how you only danced one dance, singling out Lady Caroline and then you left.
"You're lying." The spark of anger within him, flared to fury and he clenched his jaw.
"No, I'm not."
"Yes, you are," Klaus bit out. "You cleared your throat and you always do that when you are uncomfortable, which you would be if you were lying to me."
Elijah hesitated and Klaus knew he was choosing his words carefully. "Well, there was talk, but hardly any sneering or laughing. Mostly wonder and astonishment that you were at a ball and that you were drawn to Lady Caroline. The lady is not exactly the type you are associated with."
"And?" Klaus prodded.
"Nothing."
Kol spoke up, "Is it true that you threatened to ruin anyone that kept you from dancing with Lady Caroline?"
"Well, at least they are somewhat speaking the truth." Klaus noticed the sparkle of a delicate diamond bracelet and he picked it up to appraise it.
His younger brother's mouth dropped open in shock. "It can't be true. You can't have succumbed to Cupid's arrow? Not with all the jolly good times at Lucifer's"
Klaus ignored him and ran his thumb over the stones. They were very high quality and would look stunning encircling Caroline's small wrist. "What do you think of this as a gift for Lady Caroline?"
Elijah cleared his throat noisily and shot Kol a pointed look.
"It would be perfect if you were thinking of making the Lady your mistress," Kol laughed, his shoulders shaking with mirth.
Klaus frowned and set the bracelet down.
Gregori spoke up at last, "If I may, Your Lordship?" At Klaus's nod he continued, "The morning after a dance, it is customary to send flowers to one's dance partners if the gentleman wants to pursue the acquaintance. If one wishes to express a serious interest in courtship, a small token of affection might be included."
"Well, that is what the bracelet is for," Klaus explained patiently. "It is beautiful, extravagant and shows Lady Caroline how much I hold her in esteem."
"Niklaus, the bracelet will be taken as an insult. The lady will think you are intending something more from the acquaintance. Or perhaps that is your intent?" When Klaus didn't answer, Elijah kept speaking, "If you are hoping for a casual affair with Lady Caroline, you are in for a disappointment. From everything I have observed of her, nothing less than marriage – presumably someone with fortune, will be acceptable. Seek a mistress elsewhere. I have no doubt that there are dozens of other women who would welcome your intentions. Especially, with that bracelet."
"I don't wish her for a mistress," Klaus snarled.
Elijah hid a smile behind his hand. "Does this mean you like the lady?"
Klaus picked up a ruby ring, pretending to study it intently.
Kol made gagging noises. "I'm going to be sick."
"Enough, Kol!" Klaus snapped, tossing the ruby ring back to the table. He picked up the bracelet again. It was perfect for Caroline. Already, he could see it on her wrist.
"If your intentions are not to make the lady your mistress, what is your goal?" Elijah asked.
Klaus swallowed, for the first time in a long time very unsure of himself. "I don't know. I just know I must see her again. Growing up the son of a Duke and especially ever since I opened Lucifer's, women have thrown themselves at me. They desire a taste of power and wealth and they see that when they look at me."
"No one would accuse you of being conceited." Elijah's voice was heavy with sarcasm.
Klaus didn't bother to acknowledge his brother's comment. "Lady Caroline sees none of that. She fights my attentions, challenges me. With her, the rules have changed. The lady will not be moved by my power or connections here or my wealth."
"So she is a challenge then?" Kol nodded. "I understand that. It is like my pursuit of Felicia all over again. That woman made me pull out all the stops wooing her before she would bed me. Sleep with Lady Caroline and you will get her out of your system quick enough."
"Don't tell him that," Elijah snapped at Kol. "Pay no attention to him. The whelp has no sense."
"Maybe Your Lordship would consider one of the jeweled fans?" Gregori interjected. "Or perhaps one of the hair combs? Such a small gift, while costly, will be most acceptable."
Klaus ignored his brothers, moving further down the table to peer at the smaller, less extravagant items.
"I have always found that ladies enjoy a bottle of scent," Kol suggested helpfully.
"Lady Caroline is not like the typical ladies you consort with." Shooting Kol a haughty look, Klaus picked up an ivory hair comb. He pictured Caroline's hair loose and in curls down her back and his heart clenched uncomfortably. "It is just so plebian." He set the hair comb down. "Something one would buy a shop girl!"
Gregori took the opportunity to lift a padded tray from one of the tables, bringing it over for Klaus's perusal. "Does anything catch your eye, Your Lordship?"
About to refuse, something glittering caught his eye. Reaching down, he lifted up a packet of jeweled hairpins nestled in white silk. The hairpins were made of gold and perched on the end were hummingbirds, their wings fashioned out of semiprecious stones. He remembered a time long ago when a hummingbird had impressed upon him a valuable lesson after one of Mikael's more severe beatings. He wanted her to have them, to tell her about what it meant to him that such a fragile life should fight so hard to exist. They would look stunning in her hair, arrested in flight among her curls. He would never find a more perfect gift.
"They are exquisite, like her," he murmured, forgetting he had an audience.
Kol walked over to take a look. "Hummingbirds? Really, Nik. One would think you were a giddy schoolgirl," he teased.
Casting his brother his blackest look, Klaus handed the hairpins over to the representative of Rundell, Bridge and Rundell. "I'll take these and the emerald and sapphire necklaces along with the diamond bracelet I looked at earlier."
The representative nodded eagerly, pleased at having made such a lucrative sale.
Klaus was about to turn away and finish his coffee when he noticed an almost hesitant look pass over the representative's face. "You have something you wish to say?"
"Your Lordship...It is just that, if you were looking to continue with the theme of hummingbirds...there is a lovely jeweled fan that was made to go with the hairpins."
"Show me."
The representative moved to pick up the fan. With a bow he handed it over to Klaus.
With a flick of Klaus's wrist, the fan flew open. Staring at the hummingbirds painted on the silk, he knew he had to have it for Caroline. "Good work."
The representative beamed with happiness and accepting the fan back, he moved to box up the purchases.
When Kol opened his mouth to speak, Klaus turned to him sharply. "Not a word."
"You do realize, Niklaus, you must always have a chaperone when in Lady Caroline's company. Otherwise you will risk her reputation." Elijah gave him his sternest look.
"I am not a complete dolt," Klaus answered with a droll tone. "I understand publicly she must be chaperoned, but privately is another matter."
"No! There is no privately," Elijah argued. "You see her publicly or not at all. I don't want the lady compromised beyond all rescuing. Promise me you will behave yourself."
"Nik - behave himself?" Kol laughed. "You do realize which of our brothers you are speaking too? Why don't you remember when he -"
Elijah gave Kol his most cutting look, which promptly shut his younger brother up. "Not now. Promise me, Niklaus, that you will do nothing to compromise Lady Caroline."
"Of course not," Klaus replied, a slow smirk curving his lips. "I shall do nothing the lady doesn't wish."
"That isn't what I asked." Elijah sighed.
Klaus took a sip of his coffee, completely ignoring the long-suffering look on his older brother's face. "Now, if you two don't mind, I have a lot to do today."
"Please tell me that none of that involves further irritation to our father. He has been most displeased with you lately. "
"Rather like a rabid dog," Kol supplied.
The familiar heat of fury trickled into Klaus' veins, heating his blood at the mention of Mikael.
"I worry for you, Niklaus."
"Worry?" Klaus's barked at his older brother. "It is he you should be worried about. I am so close. When I am done with him, he will pray for death."
Elijah shook his head. "At what price to yourself? End your vow of revenge before it destroys you in the process."
"You would say this to me after everything I have suffered?" Klaus glared daggers at his oldest brother.
"Forgive me, I do." Elijah lowered his head. "I wouldn't see you hurt ever again and I worry we are reaching a precipice that you will not be able to back away from."
"Let me help you, Nik," Kol offered with a bloodthirsty smile. "I do not mind getting my hands dirty. Especially, not where father is concerned. He is a tyrant and deserves all he gets."
"You will stay out of this, Kol," Elijah reprimanded. "Your hands are already far to dirty as it is."
Klaus slammed his coffee cup down, sloshing the liquid over the sides. "I need no help from you, and Elijah tread carefully. I will not be swayed by your worry and hand wringing. Mikael's day of reckoning is coming whether you like it or not and when it is over only one of us will still be standing"
"That is my worst fear." Elijah could not hide the pain in his face.
"Enough of this," Klaus snarled. "It is time you were both on your way."
"But, Nik," Kol whined. "I was hoping we could catch the fight this afternoon. They say the new pugilist from France is solid as a brick wall. Nothing takes him down. I am putting money on him."
Klaus smiled slightly, tamping his anger down once more. "Money you will surely lose. He was here drunk as a skunk until dragged out of here a few hours ago by his handlers. Bet elsewhere."
Kol grinned. "Thanks for the tip. I have been rather low in the pockets lately."
"We will leave, but think on what I said. Please." Elijah stood up, Kol following.
"Good day, gentlemen." Klaus inclined his head slightly. A royal dismissal. One that his brothers knew better than fight.
Klaus watched them leave, ignoring the empty silence and loneliness they left in their wake. They needed to stay away until he destroyed Mikael. If anything went wrong he didn't want them hurt and he didn't trust Mikael not to take them down with him. A drowning man will grab at anything to live, even the innocent.
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After a morning spent being seen at Westminster Chapel, in all their Sunday finery, the Forbes and Gilberts' along with Miss Bennett were now enjoying a quiet afternoon at home. Bouquets arrived all day for both Lady Caroline and Lady Elena. Most of the gentleman whom they danced with the previous night at Lord Grenville's sent floral arrangements in hopes of furthering their courtships. So many flowers were delivered; the entire drawing room resembled an indoor garden. It didn't help that Elena's deceased mother, with London's gray weather in mind, decorated the room in numerous shades of green, with white accents.
Curled up in one of the striped brocade wing back chairs, Caroline idly paged through La Belle Assemblée. Across from her on the settee sat her mother and Elena's guardian, Mr. Saltzman. Her mother read a novel and Mr. Saltzman appeared to be nearly asleep with his newspaper. In front of the large bowed windows that overlooked the street, Elena plucked away at the piano and Bonnie worked on embroidering a rose pattern.
Caroline looked up from the silver tissue evening gown that caught her attention. "How do you manage to play that so perfectly?"
Elena's fingers danced over the keys. "I don't know. It just comes easy to me."
"It isn't fair. I wish I could play like that."
Lady Forbes flipped a page in her book. "It isn't for lack of trying. I used to have you practice for hours and you still can't play more than the simplest tune."
"I know. I remember the hours I spent in tears listening to Miss Pearson's admonishments and I am still all thumbs when it comes to the piano."
"You forget, Care, you have the loveliest singing voice. The best of all of us." Bonnie looked up from her embroidery.
Caroline smiled at her friend's kind words. "I suppose if I can't play at least I can manage to carry a bit of a tune."
"You can do more than that," Bonnie argued. "Or did you forget how you had the entire audience at the Dover's Musicale in awe of that aria you sang."
"I think that was more due to Elena's playing," Caroline replied with a fond look at Elena.
Lady Forbes sighed. "It is unfortunate that a good singing voice doesn't translate to a proper proposal."
Caroline's tensed at her mother's obvious worry. She knew her lack of a match kept her mother up at night. If only she could hold her tongue long enough that Lord Lockwood might finally propose.
"Lord Lockwood seemed most attentive to Care last night. He even had the supper dance with her," Bonnie said, trying to appease Lady Forbes.
"Until she picked a fight with him."
Caroline cringed at her mother's exasperated look.
Mr. Saltzman folded his newspaper, fully awake now. "It is good for Lord Lockwood not to have everyone agree with him. Lady Lockwood dotes on him far too much. Caroline is a challenge he won't able to ignore. Wait and see, Elizabeth, he will come up to scratch before the season is over."
A small smile flitted across Lady Forbes's face. "I hope you are right."
"It wouldn't surprise me if she was the first of the girls to accept a proposal." Mr. Saltzman turned his paper over to peruse the back.
Caroline's gaze snapped to Elena at the same time her friend fumbled over the piano keys.
"Elena?" Bonnie frowned.
Mr. Saltzman had no idea his ward was engaged. Which meant Stefan never approached him about a proposal and Elena hadn't spoken to him about her engagement at the Grenville's Ball. He was clueless. Why hadn't Elena said something? It could only mean one thing. She still hesitated to completely commit herself to Stefan.
Elena looked up from the piano, her eyes begging her friends not to say a word.
Lady Forbes looked at the three girls suspiciously and Caroline recognized the look in her mother's eyes. Her instincts that something was wrong were tingling. Lady Forbes's gaze fell on Elena. Her friend reddened, opening and closing her mouth until at last she blurted, "Isn't it funny how Lucifer danced only with Care?"
Irritation exploded in Caroline and she glared at Elena. Her friend flinched, giving her an apologetic smile and then once more started playing piano.
Her mother turned to Caroline, her gaze calculated. "I have wondered that very thing."
"It meant nothing," Caroline attempted to explain for the hundredth time in twenty four hours.
"I think it's much more funny how young Stefan Salvatore danced with Elena three times last night without a single proposal in sight. Unless he has spoken to Jeremy? Which I doubt since he is still in the country," Mr. Saltzman said, giving Caroline a sympathetic look.
"Alaric," Elena whined when Lady Forbes studied her once more.
Caroline lifted her magazine to her face, hiding her smile of relief.
There was a rap on the door and the butler entered carrying an enormous bouquet of white lilies.
He bowed. "These just arrived for Lady Caroline."
"Oh, those are lovely. Lilies are so rare this time of year," Elena gushed.
Lady Forbes smiled with pleasure at the very expensive bouquet. Only someone with access to a fortune or a hothouse would send such flowers. "Who are they from?"
Caroline indicated to the butler that he should bring her the bouquet. She couldn't help but appreciate her suitor's taste. His bouquet stood out among the other flowers that filled the room. The lilies were exquisite. Each one carefully chosen with no bruising on any of them. She reached out to caress one of the pale, white blooms. Lifting it to her nose she inhaled deeply, taking pleasure in the heavenly fragrance that permeated the air. This gentleman chose well. She wondered whom it was, who would choose to honor her so.
"Read the card, Caroline," Lady Forbes said eagerly.
Digging carefully through the lilies for a note, she tried not to disturb the arrangement. Finding the card at last, it startled her to find it attached to a small, leather jewel case. Putting the present in her lap, she set the basket of flowers down on the floor.
"The gentleman sent a gift as well? You must have made a huge impression on him." There was no mistaking the pride in Lady Forbes's voice.
Detaching the card from the gift, she turned the envelope over and recognized the wax seal at once. She had seen that very same coat of arms a week ago on a silver tea service. Only one person she knew used two wolves guarding a coronet...the Earl of Alverstoke, Klaus Mikaelson. Her heart leapt into her throat and it took all of her willpower to keep her hands steady when she broke the seal. She glanced at her mother out of the corner of her eye and wondered how on earth she would even begin to explain her previous association with the Earl if he were to mention it in his note. She would just have to trust that the he knew better than to hint at it in any correspondence he might send her. Still, that didn't stop the feeling of lightheadedness she knew when she opened the note.
In an elegant sweep of a pen, he had written only one line. Thanks for the dance - Fondly, Klaus
Before she had a chance to react, her mother pulled the card from her grasp.
"This is from the Earl of Alverstoke," Lady Forbes said in shock.
"I know," Caroline answered in a low voice. Unable to look at her mother, she focused on the package that lay in her lap. Like Pandora's Box, she was afraid to touch it, let alone open it. Deep down inside, she knew that whatever lay inside had the potential to forever change her life.
Lady Forbes shook the card at her daughter. "Why did you have to dance with him?"
"It's not like she had a choice," Mr. Saltzman interjected in a soothing tone. "She could hardly refuse. To do so would have caused even more talk."
"I know," Lady Forbes moaned "But the gossip that has come from it...What will the Lockwood's think? Her other suitors?"
Elena made her way over to Caroline's side, leaning against the wing back chair. "Open the present, Care. I am dying to know what is inside."
Caroline picked up the leather jewel case and ran the tip of her finger over the stamped logo for Rundell, Bridges and Rundell.
"It's from Rundell's." Elena announced, barely containing her excitement. "Whatever else they say about him, Lucifer has good taste in jewelers."
Lady Forbes pressed her hand to her forehead. "Let's not mention that unfortunate nickname. I don't care to think of my daughter dancing with someone named after the prince of darkness."
"He is also an Earl from his mother's side, Lady Forbes," Bonnie murmured, joining them.
A frown puckered Lady Forbes brow, Bonnie's words doing little to settle her unease.
Caroline barely breathed when she struggled to undo the clasp on the box. She didn't know what she was so afraid of. A small box from Rundell's should have her giddy with pleasure. With a small click, the box opened to reveal ten gold hairpins with jeweled hummingbirds on the tips.
"They're beautiful," Bonnie cooed.
Caroline couldn't help herself. Without thinking, she lifted one from the velvet and held it up to the light. The jeweled hummingbird wings instantly trapped the sunlight, reflecting it in rainbow shades on the wall of the drawing room.
Elena reached down to pick up the box of hairpins. "They are gorgeous." Taking one out of the pins she examined it. "The Earl spent a small fortune on these. The pins are solid gold and while the hummingbirds are made of semi-precious stones, the craftsmanship is exquisite. I have never seen anything like it."
Caroline didn't doubt her friend's judgment. Elena inherited numerous little boxes from Rundell's when her mother passed. With her family's wealth, her jewelry collection was extensive.
"She can't keep them," Lady Forbes said, having finally found her voice.
A sudden sinking feeling overwhelmed Caroline. Although she suspected the gift must be a part in some sort of game the Earl played with her, she didn't want to give them up. She never received anything so lovely before.
"You can't mean that, Lady Forbes," Elena cried, her brow furrowing in distress. "Especially since they will look so lovely in Caroline's hair."
Lady Forbes took the hairpins from Elena's hand. "Regardless of how they might look in her hair, Caroline can't accept such a gift." Examining the tiny hummingbirds, even Lady Forbes wasn't immune to the gifts charms. "They really are exquisite," she said begrudgingly before handing them back to Caroline.
The girls all exchanged smiles.
"To send them back would be an insult," Mr. Saltzman said, finally weighing in from where he still sat. "I stand by any decision you choose to make Elizabeth, but be aware of who you offend. I would prefer you not to make an enemy of the Earl of Alverstoke or even the Mikaelson Family. His father might have disinherited Lucifer, but I believe the family is still close. You might offend the Earl's siblings as well as the Earl himself."
Lady Forbes bit her lip before speaking, "It is no secret that the Mikaelson family owns much of London. The older brother Elijah manages to make money with everything he touches. The younger boy, Kol, has enough to burn if he wished. Lady Rebekah is also a force to be reckoned with on her own."
Caroline knew that to be true. She was supposed to have the ears of the patronesses of Almacks. Even advising them in the past as to which debutantes to bestow vouchers on.
"Aside from my worry about the Mikaelson siblings, I worry about Lucifer - the Earl himself." Mr. Saltzman folded his paper. "He has created his own world from which he rules unopposed, his fingers in every shady dealing in London. While his father, the Duke, controls the rest through his friendship with the prime minister. I am not sure which I fear more. The father or the son."
"Even if Caroline keeps the gift, the connection with the Earl is not one I wish to recognize." Lady Forbes's mouth puckered for a moment. "There are her marriage prospects to think of."
"True. Although, the Earl has lived a less then respectable existence, his presence at the Grenville's suggests he might finally be outgrowing his sins," Mr. Saltzman mused. "I would hate to penalize a young man for the follies of his youth."
Lady Forbes reached over and plucked the hairpins from Caroline's reluctant fingers. "For heaven's sake, Alaric, the man is called Lucifer! Something he is quite proud of from what I have heard. Such a man does not easily change his ways."
"He does seem to be courting your daughter." Mr. Saltzman's tone was careful, considering. "Maybe he will grow into the type of man his father is."
Lady Forbes looked at him like he was mad. "Leopards do not change their spots. The Earl of Alverstoke is nothing like his father, the Duke of Glenwood,"
"I don't know." Mr. Saltzman frowned in thought. "Consider his brothers Finn and Elijah, even his sister Lady Rebekah. They are all that is respectable.
"Maybe," Lady Forbes muttered. "I suppose it would seem petty and in poor taste to return the gift. I guess you may keep the hairpins."
Caroline tried to hide the small smile that curled the edges of her lips. Her mother, who watched her intently, did not miss it.
Lady Forbes returned the box of hairpins to Caroline. "You will write to him and thank him for his gift, but you will keep it brief as possible without being discourteous," she ordered coldly. "We will continue our efforts in Lord Lockwood's direction and hope the Earl's attentions are nothing more than a passing fancy."
Rising to her feet to write the note, Bonnie and Elena beamed at Caroline. They were happy she could keep the gift, but worry poked at Caroline. Everything she knew about the Earl suggested he played her false with his attentions. Scandalous handsome rakes did not fall for penniless noblewomen, no matter how genteel their birth. Even his gift suggested he thought her attentions could be bought. All she could do was hope he soon tired of this game and left her alone.
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Thank you to everyone that reviewed, alerted and favorited. I am truly honored. I hope you enjoyed this chapter.