Page 13 of The Captain Claims His Temptress

Then her aunt had written and offered her a fresh start. Only two days in England and she had solidified her unwelcome status.

Perhaps she was a strumpet since she had been unable to control her impulsivity last night. But she had wanted Captain Stephen Eaton more than she had ever wanted anything. It was if he was iron and she was a magnet, and nothing could keep them from touching. But now, he must think her a wanton doxy. What did she expect? She had behaved atrociously.

A knock at the door startled her.

Portia peeked in the room. “Mrs. Spencer, Lady Saxton sent me to help you dress for breakfast.”

Maddie cringed.Mrs. Spencerwas an old married woman’s name, and she was no longer married. She may be heading into her late twenties, but she still had decades of life in her.

“Portia, I am still unaccustomed to British etiquette. Can you call me Madalene?”

Portia closed the door and walked to Maddie’s side. “If you would like, Madalene.”

Much better.

“Are you sure I am still welcome at breakfast this morning?” Maddie asked.

Portia’s brow furrowed. “Lady Saxton sent me to help you get ready. Which dress shall I prepare?”

Perhaps her aunt was not yet aware of her scandalous behavior, and when she found out, Maddie wanted to be modestly clothed.

“The dark purple with the high neckline hanging in the wardrobe will do,” Maddie said. “Wait. I’ll wear that to church. Today I would like to wear my blue dress with the cream trim.” It hugged her curves in a most advantageous way.

Hopefully, even if he thought her corrupt, Stephen would think she looked lovely. That is, if she ever saw him again.

Maddie swallowed humiliation and entered the breakfast parlor with her chin high and shoulders back.

Round tables holding vases of freshly cut orange and yellow Chrysanthemums filled the ivory breakfast parlor, giving it a cheerful feel. A long table off to one side was loaded with cold meats, fruits, loaves of bread, and pastries.

Many of the men looked up from their plates to smile in her direction. The few women glanced at her and then returned to their conversations. Thankfully she did not have to face Sir Saxton or Hugo Adams since they were absent. She wavered between relief and disappointment that Stephen Eaton was not in attendance.

Lady Saxton motioned and patted the empty seat beside her. As much as Maddie fought the sway of her hips, they swished from side to side as she strolled to her aunt. “Good morning, Aunt Henrietta.”

“Good morning. Please help yourself to the buffet and keep me company.”

Maddie filled her plate with pastries and took the indicated seat.

Her aunt poured her a cup of tea. “How did you sleep?”

“Quite well,” Maddie lied.

“That is wonderful because we have a busy day ahead of us. While the men are hunting, you can help me entertain their wives. I have paints and canvases set up in the hothouse. We shall also have a lovely lunch and tour the gardens.”

“That sounds delightful,” Maddie said. “But are you sure I am welcome?”

Her aunt’s chin snapped back. “Why would you not be welcome?”

She stared into her aunt’s eyes. The only emotion she detected was affection. Obviously, she had not yet heard about Maddie’s behavior. Unfortunately, she would learn of it soon enough.

“Look who just arrived.” Her aunt waved and beckoned to her visitors before whispering, “If I have anything to do with it, he will propose before the end of the week. No one here will be the wiser about your unfortunate past because before they can hear of it, one of the most beloved men in England will be your husband.”

Maddie inwardly cringed before her gaze drifted to the entrance. The captain and the second lieutenant, dressed casually, stood side by side.

Maddie choked on her tea. Stephen Eaton may have been a fairy-tale prince in his uniform, but he was flesh-and-blood masculine perfection in a cravat and muslin. A tingle started in her belly and rippled outward.

The men approached and bowed. The blond’s smile consumed his handsome face. The redhead’s scowl stabbed her heart.

“Good morning, gentlemen,” her aunt said. “Have you met my niece from New York, Madalene Spencer?”