Post by Meomi on May 22, 2012 17:29:21 GMT -7
A WICKED PROPOSITION
..::Chapter 4::..
Catherine: No! I cannot do this! There has to be another way.
Catherine argued as soon as Lilly explained the plan to her.
Lilly: My husband rarely socializes anymore, Catherine. It is the only place he frequents that you would ever cross paths with him.
Catherine: Why must it be there?
Lilly: You can hardly make his acquaintance on the street outside his house, Catherine. Really, you are carrying on over this? This is the easiest part of it.
Catherine: But... it's a... a...
Lilly: Yes I know. It's a brothel.
Catherine: I can't do this! There must be another place I could seek him out.
Lilly: It is the only place you will meet my husband without drawing any suspicion. It is perfect for our plans!
Catherine: Lilly, I will ruin everything. He will never believe I am one of those women.
Lilly smiled.
Lilly: That is where Clarice becomes necessary. The Madam has agreed to help us.
Catherine: Can we even trust her, Lilly?
Lilly: Clarice is the epitome of discretion, little sister. She has agreed to tutor you in these matters and give you access to my husband. We need her, Catherine. You know what is at stake.
==========
Catherine accepted Lilly's explanation. The weeks passed quickly. Her training had begun. It pained her to think how low she had sunk to accomplish these goals. In helping Lilly, she helped her whole family. But the price was very high. Catherine was eager to put this whole matter behind her. She was to be one of Clarice's newest girls, and faced the evening ahead with dread.
==========
Catherine knew that Lilly had warned her about going out in public. She was growing bored. What would be wrong with taking a brief walk? She donned a cloak and covered her head before she changed her mind. Her steps took her near Iverleigh Manor. The Earl was across the street from her. Her heart gave a dangerous lurch. She stared at the man who stood to destory her family. She was startled when he suddenly looked up as though he felt her eyes upon him. His eyes squinted to where she stood. Catherine stood riveted to the spot, unable to move. Hastily, she turned and began walking back the way she came. She returned to her room to await Lilly.
Lilly entered the room and saw Catherine's tense face. Catherine informed her of her disastrous walk.
Lilly: Did he see you?
Catherine: No, I don't think so. I am sorry, I had to get out of this room.
Lilly: Did you think at all before you nearly destroyed everything we have worked for?
Catherine: He did not see me! I returned here at once. You needn't worry.
Lilly: We must move you, my dear. You cannot stay here after tonight. Madame Devereaux's carriage arrives at seven. You must stay there until we find you rooms somewhere else. Did you perchance see the man loitering outside? He was hired by the Earl to watch me! He could have seen you! This could be a disaster!
Catherine: How long must I stay there? This is not what we agreed upon!
Lilly: You nearly ruined everything, we have no choice. I cannot say how long you must remain. I cannot risk leasing you other rooms. His Lordship gets a list of my expenditures weekly. It is unfortunate, but I did warn you to stay here. You may even find your time useful. This was, after all, your idea. If you do not capture my husband's interest, all is lost.
Clarice: Lord Iverleigh, it is always a pleasure to see you.
Lord Dartmouth: Is that you Iverleigh? It's not Thursday, my lord.
The man reminded him and chortled with his companions, mocking Gabriel's clockwork visit to see Constance.
Nicholas was receiving a great deal of attention from the ladies. Gabriel ignored his smug look.
Gabriel: It would appear I am without a companion, Clarice.
Clarice: I have a new girl for you, my lord. I believe you will find her much more to your liking. She will be arriving soon.
Nicholas: I insist you join us, my friend. There are plenty to go around. I do not mind sharing.
Gabriel: Clarice has a new girl. I appreciate your offer, but you know how much I despise sharing, no offence.
Gabriel noticed Nichola's attention was riveted somewhere else. Gabriel glanced over to see what drew his notice. His mouth summarily dropped as well.
To be continued...
Click for Chapter 5