A Firm Hand Read online

  A Total-E-Bound Publication

  www.total-e-bound.com

  A Firm Hand

  ISBN #978-0-85715-150-6

  ©Copyright Cheryl Dragon 2010

  Cover Art by April Martinez ©Copyright May 2010

  Edited by Michele Paulin

  Total-E-Bound Publishing

  This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental.

  All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Total-E-Bound Publishing.

  Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Total-E-Bound Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution.

  The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork.

  Published in 2010 by Total-E-Bound Publishing, Think Tank, Ruston Way

  , Lincoln, LN6 7FL, United Kingdom

  .

  Warning: This book contains sexually explicit content which is only suitable for mature readers. This story has been rated Total-e-burning.

  A FIRM HAND

  Cheryl Dragon

  Chapter One

  James Montford slowed his horse to a walk as he took in the view of Mariah Griffin trotting her prize black mare. The woman’s lush curves and fearless nature called to him.

  When she looked over her shoulder for him, she pulled up and turned to trot in his direction. “Are you tired, my lord?” Her breasts bounced as she brought her horse to a stop. The dress was in no way revealing, but James had an active imagination.

  “Not at all. Simply enjoying the view of your uncle’s estate.” He knew she’d never believe it, which was precisely why he’d said it.

  “If you’re bored, please do not continue on my account. Alice’s headache ruined your afternoon of riding with her. I simply needed to get some air, and on my uncle’s estate I can ride alone with no impropriety. You need not feel obligated.” She walked her horse around his, circling him like a vulture.

  “I enjoy riding as well, Miss Griffin. Your company only adds to the view.” James had no designs on Alice, Mariah’s cousin, but her parents wanted him for a son-in-law. With neighbouring estates, the socialisation was inevitable. Until Mariah’s arrival, part chaperone and all friend for Alice, James had not spent much time here.

  He and Mariah spoke rather openly to one another but stayed away from any topics of significance. That suited him well. He was in no haste to marry. The institution made most people he knew miserable. Mariah didn’t pressure him about Alice or any other attachment.

  “View?” She looked down with a grin. “My mare is not for sale, my lord.”

  He chuckled. She rebuffed his compliment and yet a touch of pink glowed in her cheeks. “I’m not shopping for horses. I have a well-stocked stable.”

  “So I hear. My aunt wanted me to invite you to dinner. Hopefully, Alice’s headache has passed.” Mariah’s face turned serious as she nodded to the sky. “Rain is coming. We should go back.”

  “Eager to escape me?” He glanced up and saw her assessment was accurate. Annoyance boiled in his veins. Nature plotted to keep him from some relaxing time alone with Mariah. His desire for her fought his need to remain unattached.

  Mariah made him feel things no other woman had. But she was a lady, the daughter of a rich man. Innocent and honourable in all things. Yet they had a connection. He was an earl, worthy of her, but if she knew his true nature, he suspected she’d run.

  He knew she had three brothers. Perhaps if he treated her like a little sister, the lust would pass. “Shall we race?” he asked.

  She nodded. Few men would suggest such a thing to a grown woman, but they’d begun a habit of teasing one another already. He wanted to watch her best him. It’d provide interesting dinner conversation.

  “One, two, three.” He took off, and she didn’t sprint past him. Her lighter body and sleeker horse should’ve overtaken him at the average pace he’d set his mount. James wondered if she was now taking in the view? He felt lightheaded for a moment as his stomach ached in confusion and desire. To possess her was a dream, but dreams were false and easy. Reality hurt people, and he had no wish to upset anyone. He’d created a quiet life he could tolerate.

  He pulled up at the stable and entered. Dismounting, he looked about for the stable boy and heard rustling in the hay. Defiling a chamber maid was no excuse for neglecting duty. James rounded the stall to chastise the couple. He stopped in his tracks and wanted to use his riding crop in a multitude of ways. Alice’s headache had apparently been cured by the affections of the vicar.

  “Edmund?” James levelled a challenging glance at the man.

  The vicar stepped in front of the dishevelled young woman. “Forgive me, my lord.”

  “Your lordship.” Alice tried to cover herself.

  “You’ve won, my lord. The rain is starting. Where is everyone?” Mariah followed James’ path, and her jaw dropped as she took in the scene.

  James helped her off her horse, relishing the feel of her firm body beneath his hands. She barely gave him a nod as she glared at her cousin. The play of the race and the weather no longer proved of interest to either of them.

  “Alice!” Mariah grabbed her cousin and pulled her away from Edmund’s arms. “What are you doing?”

  James took some comfort in the fact that Mariah had not lied to him. She displayed shock at Alice’s behaviour. Yet when the woman should have turned and averted her eyes, she pushed into the centre of the mess.

  “I’ll handle this, Miss Griffin.”

  “You’ll do nothing of the kind. This is a family matter, my family.” Mariah barely glanced at him. “Alice, what are you doing here with a man? What are you thinking?”

  Alice cried silently, shaking her head. “I’m sorry. I couldn’t help it. I want to marry for love not fortune. Mother is so ridiculous about it all.”

  “Miss Griffin, stand aside so I may deal with the vicar properly.” James grabbed her arm and felt a spark. That same spark he felt every time she was near. Ignoring it grew harder every day.

  “Please, no duelling. Such male nonsense is beneath you, my lord.” Mariah turned her back to him. “You made no offer to Alice, Lord Montford. Edmund will simply make a proper offer, and they’ll be married. Your honour is quite intact.” Mariah looked at James, and he felt an odd relief course between them. “My cousin has chosen another. Surely, your ego can bear it.”

  “My parents will never approve Edmund with Lord Montford having shown an interest. You know Father. He wants security for me, and a title in the family. He feels it’ll make up for not having a son.” Alice looked to the ground.

  “They won’t force you to marry the earl. His lordship is far too stern for you. Your father dotes on you, Alice. If you cry and carry on enough, he won’t make you marry a man you don’t love. Please stop making this more difficult.” Mariah rubbed her temples and James wanted to take away her burden.

  “Mother wants a good match to show off. She won’t give in and let me marry Edmund. She’ll insist my feelings will change and not let up so long as the earl is unattached. You don’t know the pressure of being an only child.” Alice brushed her tears back, but more took their place.

  Edmund cleared his throat. “I beg your pardon, your lordship. I have been weak, but all my reflection leads me straight back to Miss Alice. Miss Griffin
, I would be only too happy to make an offer to your cousin. I promise you I would have done so and spoken to her father months ago, but the more time the Earl spends with you ladies, the harder it becomes for Alice and me.”

  “Months?” James and Mariah asked in unison.

  Alice buried her face in her hands. “I’m so sorry, Mariah. I used you as a chaperone and a distraction to keep the earl busy. But I do love you like a sister. Help me. Please. I tried and tried to find a way, but mother and father simply won’t show Edmund a scrap of attention or approval as anything but a vicar. I don’t know what to do. You’re so clever.”

  “Oh bother, they’re right.” Mariah turned to James. “The only way she can marry the vicar is if you marry someone else.”

  “I beg your pardon?” James asked.

  “If they believe she is heartbroken or jilted and Edmund is the only man who can soothe her, they’ll give in. But if you’re still available for their daughter to marry, they won’t.”

  Mariah’s concern was selfless, but James felt his honour would be fulfilled by letting the girl cry off and marry another. A duel was not necessary; Mariah was correct there. Now he must marry to keep the peace? Certainly, there was another solution.

  “What do you suggest, Miss Griffin? I marry you to set your cousin free?” He smirked, though the idea of having Mariah in his bed tempted him deeply. The shock that should be there from such a suggestion out of a lady simply didn’t exist. Nothing about marriage to Mariah seemed wrong.

  He saw a twinkle in her eye and felt a shiver. Then the heat grew between them. Images of her in his bed, naked and wild, were nothing new, but he’d never taken them seriously.

  “Alice, go inside and keep up the headache fib. Don’t come down to dinner. Edmund, go back to your vicarage and return tomorrow to make an offer for Alice. I’ll work out the rest with his lordship. Don’t say a word to anyone, and for heaven’s sake, don’t sneak around anymore until you’re engaged.” Mariah smiled up at James.

  Her pouty lips and green eyes sent a stab of desire through him. Blonde curls framed her lovely oval face. Her lush curves had tempted him as he watched her ride, walk and even play piano.

  “Go Edmund. I’ll deal with you later. Good night, Miss Alice.” He bowed to her though his respect for her had diminished severely.

  Alice left, clearly trusting her cousin to fix the mess she’d created. Edmund went a little more slowly. Did he fear a duel challenge later? The vicar had little courage, and James took no pleasure in the thought of killing him.

  When the vicar was gone, James strode up and towered over the petite Mariah. “Do you plan to convince me to marry you in the same manner Alice did Edmund? My will is stronger.”

  She smiled widely. “Certainly not. I would never conduct myself in such a fashion. My cousin is a romantic and occasionally a fool. However, she is not fit for you. You’re far too harsh and demanding a personality. I knew it the moment I met you. But her mother is quite determined. An alternative had to appear before plans could be altered.”

  “If this is an attempt to win my affections, your cousin has superior skills.”

  “I’m sure that’s what men want. Someone to fawn over them and be intimidated. I grew up with three brothers, one father, and many a governess. Men are wild creatures who do as they please but do not frighten me. My aunt’s kindness to me, giving me the opportunity of a young lady and to spend time with Alice like a sister, is one I will never forget. I’d be thoroughly wild and spoilt if not for her. If my cousin wants a love match, better it be properly done than my aunt and uncle finding her like that. With the vicar! How shameful?” Mariah rubbed her forehead.

  “I understand your motivations and admire your intentions. I’m sure you’ll manage it without me.” James had no interest in this mess and did his best to dismiss his attraction to her.

  “No, please. You getting married is the only way to dissuade my aunt and uncle from having you for a son-in-law. We can make it work. You liked the view so far.”

  He had no doubt it would work, but if she knew the plans he had for her if she were his, she’d run crying like Alice. “Don’t sacrifice yourself for your cousin.”

  “Good advice, but it’s too late. Actually, it’s a rescue for me as well. My aunt wanted me to marry the vicar. He’s a sweet man. My dowry is not modest. I’d have had a good home and security. Plus I’d be near to my cousin. However, I have no interest in him. Our temperaments are too contrary, and his affections were already engaged elsewhere. My aunt’s plan has to be altered which is a great relief to me.”

  “You’d terrify a spineless man like Edmund,” James scoffed. “You need a strong husband to keep you in line.”

  “An indulgent husband is better than an abusive one in general. Edmund is better for Alice. I can handle rogues with tempers. And I have one quality you’re looking for.” She took a step closer to him.

  He inhaled her sweet scent, so innocent yet he wanted to do such carnal things to her. “What’s that?”

  “You’ll know I didn’t marry you for your money or your title. My father has an even more substantial income and larger estate. I have brothers to inherit so I’m in no danger of ever being poor. I don’t need to marry money. But I need to help my cousin. I want to help her like a sister. I’m no use to any of my brothers. You and I have put up with each other tolerably well. I keep up with you on a horse. Enjoy your teasing. Am I so unattractive?” She smiled up at him.

  James’ hand slid along her bare neck and pulled her closer. “I think you need a dose of what to expect as my wife before I make an offer. It’s only fair to let you enjoy the view as well.” He crushed his mouth to hers and let his other hand pinch her rear. The soft gasp in Mariah’s throat as she held onto him told James everything he needed to know about his future bride.

  * * * *

  Mariah felt the familiar tug of desire when James was near. Her breath went ragged and her bodice seemed too tight. Now, she was crushed to him, and her skin tingled from head to toe. The light spring dress she wore prevented her from truly feeling him. His hard form towered over her, and she pressed closer. Never in all her life had she imagined herself behaving like this. Until James, she’d always been extraordinarily proper in public because of her mother’s death. Her aunt told her very young that she needed to be better, not to let people think that the men in her family had given her bad habits. Yet here she stood, holding onto a man without a ring on her finger, and she didn’t want to let go. He had a smell of leather and sandalwood. The added relief that he didn’t care about her dowry any more than she did about his title made her certain this was right.

  Their mutual affection and desires sealed the deal in her mind. Testing the muscle of his arms, she shivered and curled her fingers tighter into the fabric of his coat. “I promise you, I will not cry off before the wedding. You can’t frighten me.”

  His smile warmed her, but his grip tightened. “Don’t challenge me. You need discipline. It will take a day or two to get the necessary letters from your father and the special license arranged. You will not slip from me if this is a trick.”

  Did he really believe she’d play games with their reputations for Alice’s sake? “Never. We fit well, I think.” Then it occurred to her that he might want her to cry off. “Unless you wish to be rid of me. I wouldn’t blame you. I’m not the quiet and passive bride Alice would’ve been. None of my governesses ever lasted long.”

  “You ran them off? Were you wild and unruly without a mother?”

  She blushed and looked down. “Not exactly. My brothers were older. They normally pursued my nurses and governesses, and my father turned the women out once they were with child. They never seemed to last a year. Even the plain ones. I was indulged but not allowed to run wild. But the rules changed with each new governess.”

  “Unacceptable.” He dug his hand into her hair and tilted her head back forcefully.

  Mariah inhaled sharply. “I know. My aunt saved me as so
on as I was of age.” Her father refused to hear of her leaving home before then. She looked like her mother, and he feared Mariah would die young as well. She was raised and overprotected in a world of men, but she didn’t want that world. “I want the quiet structure of the life of a lady. I’ll be a good wife, if you want me.”

  “You would be the most powerful woman in the neighbourhood as my wife. Set an example. While I enjoy your strength of character, you may not like the restrictions. In my bed you will especially obey me.” His breath rasped over her face.

  The press against her hip signalled the effect she had on him. “In matters of the bedchamber, I have no experience, my lord. I need your instruction.” The man clearly had gone mad, shocked about Alice and Edmund, ready to duel yet now he took more liberties than a properly engaged couple dared. Still, she liked it.

  “Perhaps you need a taste of what to expect before you consent to be my wife.” He tugged the bodice of her gown down until her breast was nearly exposed.

  “I am not a fragile female. I will not run or break. You’ve never frightened me with your moods or dominant air. Alice feared you, but I rather enjoy your strength.” The moisture between her legs increased. It’d happened at night when she’d dreamt of James like this or less fully clothed, but now it was real.

  “We have barely begun. I will not ruin you, in case you cry off. But once you’re my bride, you’re mine forever.” He stared into her eyes, daring her to run.

  Lifting onto her tiptoes, Mariah kissed his mouth hungrily, letting her tongue run along his lower lip. “Forever,” she repeated.

  He pushed her against the wooden slates of the horse stall, and she braced herself. He possessed no gentle or timid qualities, like Edmund. The spineless approach had never impressed her. James’ forceful style aroused her. She had no idea why, but she wanted more. James’ large hands reached inside her bodice and lifted both her breasts out of the silky fabric and exposed them to the cool night air.