Chapter 8

Chloe sat in the carriage, her heart still racing from the incident. She could not shake the feeling that this moment had irrevocably altered the course of her life. Anthony's arms around her, his voice calling her name, and the sheer terror she had felt seemed to have imprinted themselves on her soul. She had never felt so many things all at once. She truly was a mess.

As they arrived home, the reality of what had happened began to really sink in. Her mother immediately summoned the family physician to examine Chloe, to see what the injuries truly were. Although Chloe felt like the worst injuries were inside, where they could not be seen.

"There is slight bruising," the older gentleman physician said, his voice calm and reassuring. "Nothing serious, but you should take some time to rest, my dear. You have had quite a fright."

Chloe nodded, barely hearing his words. Her mind was still on Anthony, the way he had looked at her with such intensity, such concern. She could not help but wonder what it all meant. If it meant anything at all…

When her father returned home, he came to the drawing room where Lady Swift and Chloe awaited him, his expression one of mild annoyance.

"What is all this fuss about?" he demanded. "Did I just see the physician leaving here?"

Lady Swift stood up, her face pale but composed.

"Neville, there was an incident in town," Lady Swift started. "Chloe was nearly trampled by a runaway horse. It was dreadful. Luckily, we had just run into the James family, and Anthony was around to rescue her."

Chloe watched as her father's expression darkened. He should be pleased that his daughter had been rescued, yet his demeanor suggested otherwise.

"Anthony, you say?" Lord Swift's voice was tight, controlled. "How… fortuitous."

Chloe felt a pang of hurt at her father's reaction. "Yes, Father, he saved my life. If it were not for him, I might have been seriously injured, or worse."

Lord Swift turned his sharp gaze on her, and for a moment, Chloe felt like a child again, chastised for some minor infraction. "You were careless, Chloe. How could you not see a horse barreling towards you?"

Her mother interjected softly, "Lord Swift, this is hardly the time to scold her. She has been through enough today."

Chloe's eyes filled with tears. "I was lost in my thoughts, Father. It was an accident."

Lord Swift's face softened slightly, but the tension in the room was palpable. "Well, you are safe now. That is what matters. But you must be more careful in the future."

Chloe nodded, biting her lip to keep the tears at bay. She wanted to defend herself, to make her father understand the terror she had felt, but she knew it was pointless. He would never see past his disapproval of Anthony. A disapproval that only came because Anthony did not have the sort of title that he would like.

"We must be particularly careful," her father continued. "At the moment. We do not want some sort of scandal to get in the duke's mind…"

Luckily, her mother stepped up and interrupted. Lady Swift gently placed a hand on Chloe's shoulder. "Rest now, Chloe. You've had a difficult day. We will discuss this further when you are feeling better."

But that was not truly a relief because they were still going to have to discuss this further…

***

Chloe sat in the drawing room the next morning, a soft ache radiating from her right side where she had tumbled with Anthony the previous day. Despite the discomfort, she was grateful for the excuse to stay indoors and avoid another taxing day out in London among the ton. Seraphina had come over almost immediately after hearing of Chloe's mishap, her concern touching Chloe deeply. She had taken to sitting with Chloe, silently caring for her, while also talking to Chloe's mother. Chloe was not sure what about, she could not focus on any of it. Probably recounting some scandal or another from a previous ball. The usual gossip that simply did not interest her today.

Chloe sipped her tea, the warmth of the liquid offering little comfort against the thoughts swirling in her mind. Her thoughts were consumed by Anthony, and the way his strong arms had felt around her as he caught her from her fall. She had not even known that he was back in London, so she certainly did not expect to have him hold her like that. A shiver ran down her spine at the memory. It had been so long since she had seen him, and his sudden reappearance had thrown her emotions in to disarray.

If only she had been given time to prepare herself…

The cool, polite facade she had maintained during their brief encounter on Bond Street had cost her dearly. She had wanted nothing more than to scold him for his absence, to demand an explanation for his silence. But the public setting and the presence of his family had made such an outburst impossible. Not unless she wanted to draw attention to herself by causing a scene, and maybe even a scandal. Of course, her father had it drilled into her that she absolutely must not cause a scandal, no matter what. Not that she had been successful in keeping out of the eyes of the ton.

"Chloe, are you quite alright?" Seraphina's gentle voice broke through her thoughts.

Chloe started slightly, realizing she had been absent mindedly stirring her tea for several minutes.

"Yes, yes, I am fine," she replied, forcing a smile. "Just a bit sore from my fall."

"You seemed miles away," her mother remarked, her eyes narrowing with curiosity. "Are you sure there is nothing else on your mind?"

Chloe shook her head, unwilling to divulge the turmoil within her.

"Nothing of importance," she said, hoping to deflect the conversation. "Sorry, I did not mean to be so distracted today." Chloe offered a faint smile and resumed sipping her tea.

Her mind, however, continued to drift back to Anthony. She remembered the intensity in his eyes when he looked at her, the way his presence had filled the air around them. There had been a flicker of something in his gaze, a longing that mirrored her own. It was a look that she had dreamed of all night long. And that was not to mention the electrical current of desire that ran through her body as they touched. It was no wonder that she had not managed to move on when no other man made her feel anything like that. No one ever had, and she was quite sure that no one ever would.

The tranquility of the moment was shattered by the butler entering the room.

"His Grace, the Duke of Fladbury has arrived," the butler intoned. "He has requested a meeting."

Chloe's heart sank.

The drawing room suddenly felt oppressive, as if the walls were closing in on her. She steeled herself for the encounter, straightening her posture and smoothing the skirts of her pale blue morning dress. She knew that she must maintain a facade of polite interest, even though the very thought of the duke's presence filled her with a sense of dread.

"Thank you, Rogers," Chloe's mother replied, nodding to the butler. "Show him in, please."

Chloe took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. She had not expected the Duke of Fladbury to call on her, especially not so soon after the incident. Her mind raced with questions. Why was he here? What did he want? The atmosphere in the drawing room shifted once more as Lord Frampton entered, carrying a large bouquet of flowers. His entrance was grand, almost theatrical, as he presented the flowers to Chloe with a flourish.

"My dear Lady Swift," Lord Frampton began, his voice filled with what almost sounded like genuine concern. "I heard about the dreadful accident in Bond Street yesterday and came as soon as I could. I hope you are recovering well."

Chloe felt her cheeks warm with embarrassment. Tongues were already wagging. She had already become a topic of gossip which was never a place she wanted to be. The thought made her stomach churn. She accepted the flowers, their fragrance overwhelming her senses.

"Thank you, Your Grace. That is very kind of you."

As she glanced around the room, she caught a glimpse of both her mother and Seraphina's concerned expressions. Lady Swift's eyes held a mix of worry and pride, while Seraphina's gaze was filled with sisterly affection and concern.

"Lady Swift," Lord Frampton continued, seating himself across from Chloe, his eyes never leaving her face, "I must say, London society is all the poorer when you are not out amongst us. Your presence brings a light to any room."

Chloe forced a polite smile, her mind racing for a suitable response. "You are too kind, Your Grace. I am sure society can manage quite well without me for a day or two."

Frampton's eyes glinted with amusement. "Ah, but society's loss is my gain. I must admit, I find your company most agreeable."

Chloe felt a shiver of discomfort at his words. There was something in the duke's gaze that made her uneasy, a possessiveness that she could not shake. She could only hope that this conversation would end soon and that she would not have to endure his presence for much longer.

"Your Grace," Lady Swift interjected smoothly, sensing her daughter's discomfort, "might I offer you more tea?"

"Indeed, Lady Swift," Lord Frampton replied with a gracious nod, "I would be delighted."

As Lady Swift motioned for the butler to bring more tea, Chloe took the opportunity to compose herself. She needed to remain calm and poised, no matter how unsettled she felt. She knew her father would be furious if she did anything to jeopardize her potential match with the Duke. She had to play her part, even if it meant concealing her true feelings.

Chloe struggled to maintain a polite smile as Lord Frampton talked, her mind drifting to thoughts of Anthony and the genuine connection they shared. She could not help but compare Lord Frampton's superficial charm to the depth of emotion she felt in Anthony's presence. The difference was stark, and it made her heart ache with longing for the man who truly understood her.

***

Julian settled into the plush chair across from Chloe in her drawing room, his posture relaxed and confident. The delicate clinking of china filled the air as Lady Swift poured the tea that had been brought for them, but his attention was solely focused on Chloe. He allowed himself a moment to admire her, his eyes tracing the delicate lines of her features, from her soft curls to her porcelain skin. She would make a stunning addition to his life, a perfect complement to his grandeur.

"Lady Swift, I must say your home is quite charming," Julian began, his voice smooth and practiced. "It reflects your own elegance and refinement."

"Thank you, Your Grace," Chloe replied, her tone polite but distant. She shifted slightly in her seat, clearly uncomfortable under his scrutinizing gaze. "That is very kind of you."

She was less enthusiastic than other women in his presence. But that continued to excite him, he liked the thrill of the chase. It would make the inevitable catch that much more worth while.

Julian continued, unworried by her discomfort. "You know, I was recently in correspondence with Lord Pembroke. He was quite impressed with the developments in my latest venture. The success of my investments in India has been nothing short of remarkable. I told you about them at the ball, did I not?"

"You did," Chloe replied with a nod.

"I have heard that you are quite an impressive man," Lady Seraphina joined in, but Julian did not want to give her any attention, so he ignored her remark.

"Indeed," he said, redirecting his focus to Chloe. "It is essential to maintain a certain level of prestige and influence in our circles. Connections and wealth are what keep us at the top, after all. But I am sure you know as much."

Julian sipped his tea, his eyes never leaving Chloe's. Chloe's polite smile remained, but he could sense the tension in her. She was a challenge, and he relished the thought of winning her over. Because of course he would win her over.

"Lady Swift," He said, leaning forward slightly, "I wonder if you enjoy games."

"Games, Your Grace?" Chloe looked puzzled, her fingers tightening around her teacup.

"Yes, games of wit and intellect. For instance, a game of chess or perhaps a friendly wager." His eyes sparkled with vindictiveness. "I wonder if you would like to play a game with me."

Chloe's cheeks flamed red. It was the first time he had spotted a vulnerability within her.

"I do not know if I would win a game against you."

"Oh," he agreed. "I have no doubt that you would lose."

Julian watched as Chloe's expression shifted, a mix of irritation and curiosity flashing in her eyes. He was getting to her, and he found it exhilarating.

"But," he continued, leaning back slightly, "the true challenge lies in the effort, does it not? One can always learn from their defeats and grow stronger. It is not always about winning, but about the journey."

He had baffled her, he could see that, and that was the most fun of all. He was not going to allow Lady Swift to slip through his fingers easily. Perhaps not at all.

"You see, Lady Swift, much of my life has been dedicated to ensuring the prosperity and reputation of my family. My ventures in commerce and finance have not only secured our standing but have elevated it to unprecedented heights. So fun and games… that is something I value because I have little time to partake in them."

He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle in the room. Chloe listened intently, her eyes fixed on him, though the faintest hint of skepticism lingered in her expression. Undeterred, he pressed on.

"I take great pride in my business acumen," he continued, his voice carrying the confidence of one accustomed to commanding attention. "My family relies on my foresight and leadership, just as my employees rely on my decisions to safeguard their livelihoods. It is a responsibility I do not take lightly."

He needed her to see, to understand that he was the best prospect for her. That there could be no one better, otherwise he would not win this game. Chloe's gaze never wavered, though her knuckles whitened as she gripped her teacup tighter. Julian sensed he was on the verge of breaking through her composed exterior, but he also knew he had to tread carefully. Especially because her mother and best friend were in the room.

"Your dedication is admirable, Your Grace," Chloe said, her voice steady, though her eyes flashed with a challenge. "However, I believe that true strength lies not just in power or wealth, but in the ability to empathize and connect with others on a deeper level."

Julian smile faltered slightly. This was unexpected. Most women were enthralled by his wealth and influence, but Chloe was pushing back, questioning his very foundation. He was not too sure how to handle that.

"Hmm, perhaps." He scanned his eyes around the room, wondering how he could impress next. "Ah, a pianoforte. You know, I play…"

"Really?" Chloe arched an eyebrow, genuine surprise flickering in her eyes. "As do I."

Oh.

That would not impress her if she also knew how to play. But he did not mind, she was a worthy opponent, that was for sure. He just needed to focus on the things that women could not do. That would impress her. He leaned back, feigning casual interest.

"How splendid," he said. "Perhaps we should play a duet sometime. But, I must say, my true passion lies in the more strategic realms. I find the art of fencing to be particularly invigorating. Have you ever tried your hand at it, Lady Swift?"

Chloe shook her head, her expression guarded. "No, Your Grace, I have not."

And he found himself back on track, just like that.

"Well, it is one of the games that I am rather accomplished at…"

***

When will this be over?

Chloe could not stand this. She hated it. Half the time, she did not know what Lord Frampton was talking about, and she most certainly had no idea what he was getting at. There always seemed to be an under lying meaning. Something there to trip her up. It was terrible.

And now this very strange mention of games…

Well that truly worried her.

She sat stiffly, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, trying to maintain a semblance of politeness as Lord Frampton droned on about his latest hunting expedition. His voice, though smooth and cultured, grated on her nerves, each word stretching out the minutes into what felt like hours.

"Ah, Lady Swift, you should have seen the size of the stag," Lord Frampton was saying, his eyes glinting with a predatory gleam. "You would have been impressed; I am sure."

Chloe forced a smile, nodding at appropriate intervals, but her mind was elsewhere. She wondered where Anthony was at that very moment and what he might be doing. Was he also thinking of her and what happened? Or was he excited about all the connections he was likely to make during the Season? The idea of him planning to court others, especially the beautiful new debutantes that had recently come out, was a little sickening to Chloe. Even more than this conversation.

The minutes seemed to drag on interminably, each tick of the grandfather clock in the corner a reminder of how little time she had to herself. She glanced at the clock, noting that it had only been a quarter of an hour since Lord Frampton's arrival, yet it felt like an eternity. Even with Seraphina and her mother in the room, the atmosphere was terrible.

Finally, Lord Frampton paused, his tale of conquest seemingly complete. He straightened in his chair, his eyes narrowing slightly as he regarded her.

"Lady Swift," he said, his tone suddenly formal, "I have a proposition for you."

Chloe's heart skipped a beat, and she forced herself to meet his gaze, bracing for whatever was to come.

"I would be honored if you would accompany me to the opera on Wednesday evening next week," Lord Frampton continued, his expression unreadable. "I think it is something that you should enjoy very much."

Caught off guard by the sudden request, Chloe hesitated, her mind racing. How could this man possibly know what she might enjoy? He was yet to even ask her one question about herself. She knew that her father would not be thrilled by the prospect of her turning down such an invitation. Lord Frampton was a powerful man, and an advantageous match in her father's eyes. The most powerful that she had attracted yet during the Season.

After a brief, tense moment, she nodded. "Of course, Your Grace. I would be delighted to attend."

Lord Frampton's lips curved into a satisfied smile, and he rose to his feet. He took a step closer to her, bowing slightly as he extended his hand. Chloe placed her gloved hand in his, suppressing a shudder as his lips brushed against her knuckles.

"It will be a night to remember, my lady," Lord Frampton murmured, his voice low and intimate.

Chloe forced another smile, though she could feel the revulsion creeping up her spine.

"I look forward to it," she managed to say, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her.

With a final, lingering look, Lord Frampton straightened and made his way to the door. Chloe watched him go, her heart pounding in her chest. The moment the door closed behind him, she let out a shaky breath, her composure crumbling. With the Duke's long awaited departure, Chloe sank back in to her chair, the weight of her own desires and the expectations placed upon her threatening to crush her spirit. Seraphina, seemingly sensing her friend's distress, reached out to clasp Chloe's hand in a gesture of support. The two young women shared a look of understanding, both keenly aware of the pressures they faced in a society that valued status and wealth above all else. At least she had Seraphina with her. Someone who understood what she was going through.

"Are you alright, my dear?" Lady Swift's voice was gentle, concern etched upon her delicate features. "That was a lot, I know."

Chloe sighed, her voice trembling slightly. "I could never envision myself married to a gentleman as arrogant and conceited as the Duke of Fladbury," she admitted. "But I know Father will expect nothing less."

Lady Swift tried to console her daughter, her words offering a momentary relief to Chloe's troubled heart. "I understand, Chloe. We must have hope that your father will come to see reason in time."

But both women knew they were powerless to defy his wishes. Chloe's eyes welled with unshed tears as she contemplated the bleak future that lay ahead if she did not find a way to alter her path.

"When will this be over?" Chloe whispered again, more to herself than anyone in the room.

The despair in her voice was palpable. Seraphina tightened her grip on Chloe's hand, her own eyes reflecting the empathy and frustration she felt for her friend.

"We will figure something out," she murmured. "We always do."

Chloe offered her a weak smile, appreciating the sentiment, though it did little to ease the weight pressing down on her chest. She did not think anything would ever ease the stress of this. Not until it crushed her completely.

As the room settled into a heavy silence, Chloe's mind wandered to the dreaded prospect of attending the opera with Lord Frampton. The very thought of spending an entire evening in his company filled her with a deep sense of foreboding. She could already picture the scene: Lord Frampton, with his smug smile and overbearing presence, guiding her through the crowded hallways, reveling in the attention and admiration that his status commanded. He would surely expect her to hang on his every word, to laugh at his jokes, to nod and smile as he recounted his endless tales of bravado and conquest. Chloe knew she would be forced to maintain a fa?ade of politeness, to suppress her true feelings and play the part of the dutiful daughter. The thought made her stomach churn.

"What if I can not do it?" she voiced her fear aloud, her eyes fixed on a distant point beyond the window. "What if I can not pretend for an entire evening at the opera with him? What if I find him so unbearable that it is simply written all over my face?"

Chloe could feel Seraphina's eyes upon her, willing her to do what she needed to. She had to get through this as best as she could, without creating a scandal. That was her main priority. Especially now that she was already the center of gossip, simply because a run away horse had almost killed her. It did not seem fair. Not at all.

"Perhaps you do not need to pretend," Seraphina suggested gently, breaking the silence that had enveloped them. "Maybe you can find a way to turn the conversation to things you enjoy or steer it towards neutral topics. Maybe even find a way to talk about yourself a little."

Chloe sighed, shaking her head. "Lord Frampton does not seem like the type to allow his conversations to be directed by anyone but himself. And he does not truly appear to care about what I think or feel. He is only interested in impressing me. Or impressing everyone."

Seraphina nodded, understanding Chloe's predicament. "Still, it might be worth a try. Sometimes, these men are so wrapped up in their own world that they do not even realize when someone else takes control of the conversation. He certainly seemed to be wrapped up in himself then."

"That is how he was at the ball also."

Seraphina looked grim. "Well then, you need to make him see you. You are wonderful, Chloe, and you deserve to be seen."

Chloe smiled faintly, appreciating Seraphina's attempts to lighten her burden. "You always know what to say to make me feel better."

But she knew that she would not be able to feel this way for a long time. Soon her father would be home and she would have to pretend that this was a wonderful thing, and that she simply could not wait for it. It was nice to know that she was not alone in this, and that she had the support of her mother and best friend, but nothing was going to truly help her with her mother. Nothing would be able to stop him if this was who he really wanted her to be with, and judging by the glint in Lord Frampton's eye every single time he looked her way, it seemed like he wanted to claim her as well.

Although she was not entirely sure why, since he truly did not yet know a single thing about her.