A Lord’s Bet of Desire (Preview)

Chapter One

Laura Hawkins peered out the window of her cosy little room on the top floor of Sage Brook Manor. It was grey and dull outside, something that Laura had become accustomed to. Although Laura greatly enjoyed the freedom of being a maid in the grand estate, having a room to herself, and even her very own desk, she knew that something was lacking. She’d read the large stack of books that sat in the corner, learned not to bump her head on the quaint slanted ceiling, and had even excelled at teaching herself French. All of this progress was due to the fact that there was practically nothing to do at Sage Brook.

She kept herself busy, nonetheless. The manor was so expansive that Laura was always dusting and sweeping, even if she was dusting and sweeping the very same places that she’d cleaned the day before. The master of the house, Lord Norman Pembroke, Duke of Bancroft, was the reason why the staff was so enormous at Sage Brook, but there was still little to do. Not much for entertaining, nor even finding a wife to bear him children, Norman Pembroke preferred sitting in his library for hours on end, reading old tomes, and gazing into the fire. Granted, there was not a speck of dust on any of those old books. Laura had seen to that. But aside from frequent cups of tea and the occasional biscuit, Norman was in no way demanding.

Because of all this free time and the lack of livelihood at Sage Brook, Laura had space to dream. She wished to one day be a governess. As she turned from the dull scenery outside her window to look in the mirror, she admired her finely starched black and white uniform. It was simple, which was always what Laura preferred in terms of both apparel and conduct. Still, if one day her dream came true, and she became a governess, she could wear something much more fetching. Laura knew that it wouldn’t be a significant boost to her station in life, but it would be a boost, nonetheless. Instead of dusting books, she’d read them to children. Instead of sweeping floors, she’d teach children to dance and comport themselves befitting a child in society. There would be laughter and playtime, and while the children were learning, Laura would be learning, as well.

Laura frowned to herself in the mirror. Perhaps she was reaching too high. Her chocolate brown hair was swept back in a neat bun, her alabaster skin was becoming, and her figure was fine. These were all features to be proud of, but deep down, Laura didn’t want to draw any attention in the slightest. Her shy exterior was a mask that she wore in order to get through. It was only after a long day of hardly working that Laura would return to her room, set her hair free, and pop her nose into a book, where she felt like she truly lived.

Laura brought a hand up and clasped the locket around her neck. She opened it, looking at the picture of her late mother, Constance. Constance herself had been a maid after the death of her husband. Laura was raised in a different estate where Constance worked, but the grounds were nowhere near as stately as Sage Brook Manor. Laura couldn’t quite believe it when, following the tragic death of her mother, she was offered employment at Sage Brook. The Duke of Bancroft was one of the wealthiest in all of Britain, and Laura was surprised by her luck. It was later explained to her that the duke could see Laura’s pedigree and valued the fact that she had been raised on a separate estate. All of these things came together to place Laura at Sage Brook, where, despite the boredom, Laura found happiness from time to time.

Exiting her little room, Laura made her way down the winding stairs and headed towards the kitchen. There was some commotion, which was very surprising. The butler, Percival, ran around like a chicken with his head cut off. This was most surprising considering that Percival was prone to sitting on the front steps smoking a pipe, something that would not have been approved in any other household. “Where is Stanley? I must speak with Stanley!”

Stanley was the chef. Another man that spent a great deal of his time biding his time because Lord Pembroke seemed to live off a diet of baked fish and asparagus. Laura watched as Percival entered the kitchen, and she followed him. What she discovered there made her eyes widen. Her jaw dropped towards the floor. Never had she seen such movement. Pots and pans were being carried about, fresh flowers were brought in from the garden, and Laura could smell, of all things, a hot chowder on the stove. And was that fresh bread? Lord Pendergast always refused bread. Surely, something extraordinary was going on, and Laura wished to get to the bottom of it in the quietest way possible.

Choosing not to speak to Stanley or Percival directly, as it wasn’t her station, Laura sought out her friend, confidant, and fellow maid, Diana Cooke. Although the two girls didn’t spend much time together, they communicated much through glances, winks of the eye, and raising of the brows. Laura was amazed by how much could be communicated in just that way. Going from room to room, Laura finally discovered Diana polishing a vase that was already perfectly clean. Laura tugged on Diana’s apron.

Laura spoke in a whisper. “What is going on?”

“Oh, Laura. You frightened me!”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to.”

Diana grinned from ear to ear. “You haven’t heard the news?”

“What news?” Laura cocked her head to the side.

“Why, the duke’s brother is making an appearance.”

“You talk as though he were the Regent.”

“He practically is. Have I not told you about Edward Pembroke?”

“You have not, and I’m mildly offended.”

Diana smiled at the little joke. “He hasn’t been here in some time. Although he is a lovely man, rumour has it that the two brothers had a bit of a falling out.”

Laura wished to be polite. “That’s unfortunate.”

Diana continued to polish the vase, going over the same surfaces that she’d already gone over. “It was most unfortunate because all the staff of Sage Brook positively adore the duke’s brother.” Diana leaned in and brought her voice to a hush. “And I hear say, no less rich than Norman Pembroke.”

Laura sighed. She’d never been terribly impressed by money. Laura saw it as a means to an end, but she could understand why some women got themselves all aflutter over wealthy dukes and society titans. It would be nice not to have to work at all, but Laura assumed that those society women must be so terribly bored. Just then, Percival ran by once more, his hands in the air. Stanley followed him.

“This is a disaster. The first major event at Sage Brook in years, and no one remembers how to do their bloody jobs.”

“How dare you blame me,” Stanley protested. “The broiler has suffered from disuse.”

“Well, fix it, old chap.” Percival checked his pocket watch. “There is only one hour remaining.”

Stanley shook his head in dismay and walked away. “I can’t tolerate this tension.”

Laura stifled a laugh. She’d never seen everyone so up in arms. Although there was tension in the air, Laura enjoyed the liveliness of things. There was excitement afoot, and she couldn’t wait to get a glimpse of this Edward Pembroke.

Diana whispered again. “One hour’s time. We best get to work.”

“That is a rather good idea.”

Laura took her cue to part ways and sought to make herself look busy, as well. Heading to the broom closet, Laura dodged the various staff whizzing past her. As she felt the rush of things, Laura couldn’t help thinking of what Sage Brook would have been like if the duke had a family. What if children were scurrying about, a fastidious wife demanding this and that, and guests invited to supper? What fun that would be. Decorating for the holidays, afternoon tea, hunting expeditions. If only Norman Pembroke took an interest in anything.

Procuring the broom, Laura made her way to the most inconspicuous place she could find to sweep. It just happened to be the hall right outside the duke’s library. The door to the library was ajar. As Laura swept past, she couldn’t help peering into the library by way of a side glance. Inside, Norman Pembroke had his nose in a book, as usual. Despite all the commotion, he was as calm and collected as any. Although he was a tad dull, Laura had to admire her master. He was clearly well-educated. And truth be told, the duke was a handsome man with his sandy blond hair and large stature.

Just as Laura became aware of her daydreaming, the duke turned to her, and their eyes met. Laura let out a gasp, embarrassed that she had been caught staring at him. Laura began to feverishly sweep, trying to forget about the mortifying moment. The duke said nothing in response and continued to read his book. He could have met eyes with a gorilla in that library, and still, he’d return to his book.

In hopes of escaping the awkward encounter, Laura entered the study, and yet again, she was thwarted. There, Percival stood in a heated conversation with Daniel, the head gardener. Laura envied his position. Since the grounds of Sage Brook were so vast, Daniel always had a great deal to do and appeared to be a cheerful man because of it. On this particular day, Daniel frowned as Percival spoke to him. Laura concealed herself from their view.

“I fear that this could be the end of us,” Percival said.

“Edward hasn’t come for some time. He’ll see it all too clearly.”

Percival bristled. “The staff is perhaps three times what it should be. Edward is no fool. Unlike his brother, he’s a very diligent man when it comes to the Pembroke money. I fear for our livelihoods.”

“Sod it. You’re the butler of the house. There’s no chance you’ll be furloughed.”

“It’s unclear to me. I have been here for some time. I see that too much expense has been paid. And what have I done about it? Not a blooming thing.”

“It’s not your position to say. Your job is to do what the master tells you to do.”

“I suppose you’re right. Still, it troubles me. We have a sound staff here. Most sound. But I fear many of them will have to go.”

Laura brought a hand up to the locket around her neck and clutched it. Many of the staff will have to go? Those were the most horrible words Laura had heard in some time. All that excitement in the air dissolved into fear. Laura didn’t wish to lose her position. She’d saved up some money. She was comfortable. It would be trying to have to seek out another position. But if she could say that she once worked at grand Sage Brook, perhaps it would improve her chances.

Maybe, if the dreaded event did occur, it would be fate telling Laura to finally obtain the position that she truly wanted: to be a governess. Perhaps from calamity would arise new beginnings. At least, that’s what Laura hoped for, and she wished always to maintain a positive outlook on things. She continued to sweep down the hall before hearing the crash of thunder. It was most ominous, indeed. Laura walked to the window looking out over the garden, clutching the broom in her small hands. The rain poured down from the heavens, and Laura tilted her head to the side. Would Edward Pembroke bring with him a fresh liveliness or an inevitable downpour?

Chapter Two

Edward Pembroke sat at his desk, looking at a flickering candle. The rain outside came down relentlessly, and Edward wondered if he should even make the journey to his brother’s estate. Although he could scarce call it Norman’s estate because Edward had just as much a stake in it as Norman had. In fact, Edward felt as though he cared for Sage Brook most of all. The majority of the family fortune was in it, but Edward’s own estate was worth much.

He pushed aside a stack of papers and sighed. Though Edward was diligent with financial accounts and business, he was not the type that craved spending his life behind a desk. Edward was a man of action. He enjoyed hunting, sport, and anything pertaining to the outdoors. This desire to take in fresh air lent Edward his healthy complexion and rather large build. Even larger than his brother, and Norman was said to be a well-built man.

Hearing thunder, Edward walked to the window and watched as the drops of rain ran down the panes of glass. It was going to be a dreadful evening, but Edward was determined to see his brother and Sage Brook. Their fight over financial affairs, and Edward’s dislike of his brother’s general ennui, had led to a period of respectful silence between the two. Edward felt the responsibility to reach out to Norman to create a detente. Norman obliged, haltingly, and Edward set the time and date in which they could share supper, like the good old days when they weren’t at odds.

Just then, one of the maids of the estate, Missy, walked quietly into the room carrying a tray. “Tea, sir?”

Edward looked to little mousy Missy and straightened his necktie. “No, I thank you. I’ll be on my way to Sage Brook.”

“None before you go?” Missy blushed. “To stay warm?”

Edward gave a delighted smile. “Once again, I think I’ll pass.”

“Yes, M’Lord.” Missy gave a jittery curtsy, and Edward continued to smile.

It didn’t go to his head that the ladies of his staff often blushed in his presence. Sometimes he’d hear girlish giggling. Although Edward was flattered, he’d never take advantage of such attention. His only goal was to treat the staff with the utmost respect so that they might have prosperous lives. Whenever there was a staff member’s request to have a person of their family under Edward’s employment, he’d oblige. All in all, Edward felt as though everyone, no matter their station, deserved respect.

Walking out the front door of his estate, his chauffeur, Charles, was there waiting for him in the rain. Charles tipped his hat upon seeing his master, and a pool of water fell from it, crashing onto the already drenched ground.

“You’re a sight,” Edward said humorously.

“It’s a devil of a rain. Never seen the likes of it.”

“Do you think we’ll survive it?”

“I have a feeling, Your Grace, you could survive anything.”

“Most kind.”

Edward was still standing under the overhang, but he knew the moment of getting wet was inevitable.

Charles knit his brow. “Can I get your umbrella?”

Just then, Edward turned back towards the house and saw his butler, Harrison, standing there with the umbrella already in hand. Edward, having the intrepid spirit that he did, waved the offer off and made a run for the carriage, getting soaked along the way. Once inside, he heard Charles get on top to stir the horses.

As the carriage sped along, Edward considered what might be in store that night. A darkness came over him whenever he thought of his brother. If Norman had stepped up and taken responsibility over the Pembroke name, maybe Edward wouldn’t have to sit at his bloody desk looking at papers and notices. He wouldn’t feel the horrible pressure to marry a society woman and have a large family. Not that Edward was dreading getting married. He was determined to have it over and done with this very year. Sadly, Edward had to choose his wife more in terms of status than affection.

Edward deeply hoped that he could find a woman that fulfilled both requirements. A woman that lived up to the Pembroke name while still stirring his heart. He had to be honest with himself that such a dream might be too far-fetched. But either way, he’d be courteous to his chosen wife and treat her as she should be treated. And Edward was looking forward to the commotion of having a family. The parties and dinners, children scurrying.

The journey to Sage Brook was much darker than it ought to be. Although it was only early evening, the dark clouds blanketed the sky, and it was difficult to admire the beautiful countryside along the way. Driving down the long road that led to Sage Brook, Edward watched as the looming structure in the distance grew larger and larger. The various windows were all illuminated, leading Edward to believe that the staff was well aware of his arrival. Were Edward not coming to Sage Brook that night, there was a fairly good chance that few of those windows would be illuminated at all.

Drawing closer, the rain still falling, Percival stepped out the front door and clasped his hands behind his back. Edward pushed open the door to the carriage and hopped down, his boots creating a splash. He approached the manor with a steady foot, not choosing to run this time to get out of the rain.

Percival bowed. “You’re rather early. I thought to have the staff out and waiting—”

“That won’t be necessary, old chap. No need to stand on ceremony.”

“But you know how fond of you they are.”

“And I am fond of them. Nonetheless.” Edward shook some of the water out of his hair. “We wish to keep this a casual affair.”

Percival smiled a little nervously. But the butler always had that look in his eye. Edward’s butler, Harrison, was a far more steady man than Percival. He was grateful for his butler. Norman never spoke of Percival much, and it seemed as though the fellow could just carry on as he pleased. Several years back, there was an instance when Edward caught Percival outside smoking on his pipe.

Percival opened the door and extended his hand. “Do come in.”

“I thank you.”

“The duke is in the library, as usual.” Percival sighed.

“I don’t need to be announced. I’ll show myself in.”

As Edward walked down the hall, the various servants that he passed bowed. The female servants blushed. It was all to be expected. Approaching the library, Edward could hear the fire crackling. He stepped through the door, and there was Norman, book in hand, with a sad facial expression. If only his brother took the clean air more often. It would do something for his spirits. But Norman was always that way. He was an anxious child and wanted to be alone. Edward had tried to introduce him to ladies but with little success. What was his brother thinking?”

“Norman.”

His brother barely looked up from his book. “This dreaded rain.”

“It’s good for the countryside and begs for a warm cup of tea.”

“Did you say that to be endearing, or are you asking for a cup of tea?” Norman finally looked up.

“I’d accept one if it was placed in front of me.”

Norman reached over and rang a bell by his side. Edward found a chair, pushed back his coattails, and seated himself. They waited in awkward silence for the tea to arrive. Finally, a servant came scurrying into the library carrying a tray. Once the tea was poured and served, Norman sighed and continued the conversation.

“It’s been some time since I’ve seen you.”

“Not entirely my fault.” In fact, Edward was the one that needed to instigate the reunion.

“Now’s not the time for blame. We’ll enjoy supper in the grand dining room and catch up on affairs.”

The grand dining room. If only it were used in the manner for which it was intended. Edward recalled the remarkable dinners the former Duke of Bancroft held. The duchess, Edward’s mother, took great pains to ensure that the meals were utter perfection, and so they always were. Those halcyon days seemed so far in the past. Sage Brook needed life in it again.

“Is Stanley still with you?”

“He’s a decent cook. I’ve seen no reason to let him go.”

“Cooking for one, eh?”

Norman knit his brow. “Yes, brother. My chef cooks for me. He also prepares food for the staff.”

“At least he’s staying busy.”

“And do you not have a chef of your own, Edward? In a rather large estate where you live by yourself?”

Edward could glean what his brother was implying. “I keep a chef for the future of my estate. I shall have a wife, children, guests. In fact, I have guests already. There was a rather quaint party just last night.”

Why did Edward feel the need to explain himself to his brother? He knew his own intentions, and Edward had a way of carrying through with all his intentions. It was in his nature to do so.

“And when do you intend to have this wife?”

Edward cleared his throat. “By the end of the year.”

“Any prospects?”

“Plenty of prospects, just a horrible case of indecision.”

“You were always popular with the ladies. I’ll grant you that.”

“You could be too, Norman. You know that you’re a fine-looking chap. You’re a Pembroke.” Edward smiled.

“Point taken.”

In the silence that followed, Edward could hear the rain still pouring down outside. There’d be no chance to return to his estate after supper. “Have you a room prepared for me?”

“I have upwards of twenty rooms prepared for you. Have your pick.”

“Most kind.”

Edward quickly finished his tea. The flavour was a tad too weak for his taste, but the temperature was hot, and it warmed Edward’s bones. Not that he needed much warming because his natural temperature seemed to run high. He was famous for not wearing a coat in the winter, despite Harrison’s suggestions.

“Have you received correspondence from Lady Anna Rutley?”

Edward was in shock that Norman knew of that. Lady Anna was a society woman that had sent Edward some courteous notes, but he could tell the intent behind them. Anna’s father was an earl that Edward had met on several occasions. The gentleman was wealthy. Not as wealthy as Edward, but he clearly had aspirations for his daughter. Anna was kind enough, though there was something about her bearing, which Edward observed in all ladies of exquisite breeding. She was a tad cold. If only Edward could find someone that shared his same hot blood.

“Anna is a very cordial lady. She has written to me on occasion.”

“And what do you think of that? For the future?”

Edward had to laugh. “Brother, are you playing the matchmaker? Perhaps we should discuss your own need for a wife.”

Norman appeared flustered and got up from his seat, walking over to the window. “What would I do with a wife?”

“I can tell you precisely what to do with a wife.”

“Don’t be crude, brother.”

Edward shook his head. Why should it be crude to refer to matters of the flesh? It was natural and something that Edward relished. In fact, he greatly looked forward to having a wife that was just as enthusiastic about such matters. “I do not see it is crude. It shocks me that you do.”

Norman began to ramble about other matters to change the subject. Edward poured more tea and discovered that it was already cold. Norman asked, “Should I ring the bell?”

“Don’t bother. I’ll seek it out on foot.” Edward exited the library and walked down the hall. He’d ask for tea from the first servant that he encountered.

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“A Lord’s Bet of Desire” is an Amazon Best-Selling novel, check it out here!

Laura Hawkins knows that she’s bound to a life of servitude at Sage Brook manor. While working at the house of Norman Pembroke, the Duke of Bancroft, she has always dreamt of advancing her life from a humble maid to that of a governess. Despite knowing that this opportunity may never appear, her love for reading is enough to keep the dream alive. But little did she know that fate would bring an unforeseen twist that would make this dream a tangible reality… When Edward, the endearingly attractive brother of the Duke, comes to visit, the last thing she expected was to end up under his roof and away from the only place she’s ever known. Laura will inevitably find herself seduced by his ravishing beauty, but will she allow herself to finally surrender to her burning desire for him?

Edward Pembroke has always been the opposite of his brother. Being warm and dutiful himself, he was against his brother’s love for gambling that was dwindling the Pembroke fortune every day. When he finally decides to confront him about his wayward habit, they both end up engaging in a fateful night of gambling, and Edward wins the prize of taking anything he wants with him. Without a second thought, he chooses Laura, as her fiery nature lightens a spark inside him. Once they move to his house, he can’t help but be mesmerised by her every move, willing to do whatever it takes to possess her. Will he manage to turn this promising desire into an everlasting love?

Laura and Edward’s attraction is impossible to deny, but their evident class differences are threatening their undeniable lust. The more time they spend together, the more they lose their hearts and bodies to one another. Will their passionate connection prove strong enough to shatter the insurmountable obstacles? Or will their heated affair go down in flames before it even sets them on fire?

“A Lord’s Bet of Desire” is a historical romance novel of approximately 80,000 words. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

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