Seduction for Love (closed for silvertongue217)

[Mignonette]

The carriage was rattling her with every bump in the road, and there were more than a few of those. But her emotional state was far more unstable than the road she was traveling on. Her hands tightened around the fabric of her fine red silken gown and her lips pursed in a tight line as she remembered her farewells from her family. Her mother had looked at her with sadness, but also with a clear reproach. Her father, the King of England, hadnt even looked at her once.
"You could have avoided this, Isa.", her mother, the King's mistress and his official companion more often than the Queen, had whispered to her during their last hug. "You should have been more careful."

Yes, she should have been more careful. In fact, she should have just kept to the lovers her father had chosen for her. As his illegitimate child, she had had to work for her life at court. She was his spy, the lady who could get information about almost any gentleman. Her mother had taught her the necessary skills, as well as the pleasures a woman could find in those tasks. In the end, Isabella had made the simple mistake of indulging too much. The lovers chosen for her were often boring and old. A young woman of nineteen was more eager to seek out lovers closer to her age, who could show stamina as well as eagerness. But her last lover had been her downfall. She had laid eyes on the new Duke of Suffolk, who had just recently inherited the title from his deceased father. At only three and twenty, young Phillip had been a most handsome man. He had trained for the military, but he was also well educated. His dark hair was always styled perfectly and his stubble trimmed to give him a rugged, yet also elegant look. And then there had been his eyes. The green orbs had looked at her with such an intensity, that she had been ready to get lost in them. There was only one problem: Said Duke was engaged with her step sister, the King's legitimate daughter.

It hadnt stopped Isabella however. She had charmed him and before long, the two of them were on fire. During one of the many balls, they had sneaked out together, hiding in one of the empty hallways. He had placed her on one of the broad window stills, his hands all over her body. Before long, she had pushed up her skirts and he had disappeared between her legs, making her scream with his skilled tongue and lips.... What a shame that her sister, looking for her husband to be, had come upon them, finding her relative in the throes of orgasm, given by the man she was to marry just next month.

The king, who usually turned a blind eye on her private adventures, had not taken the news very well. He loved his daughter more than he had use for Isabella. Only a week after the incident she had been informed about her arranged marriage. When her husband to be was mentioned, she didnt even know who her mother was talking about. It was noone she knew from court, which only meant that she was to be sent far away. But she had never expected just how far. The north of the kingdom was cold, rainy and isolated and the exact contrary to the luxurious life of the capital.

With a sigh, Isabella leaned her head against the wooden frame of the carriage. Why did she have to seduce the Duke of Suffolk? Why couldnt she control her passions better? She just hoped that her new husband would provide her with some pleasurable entertainment in her new life.
She had gathered that he had lost his wife a while ago and usually such men were eager to find solace in a new woman's arms.
As the carriage stopped in front of the manor however, she didnt even see her new husband standing there to welcome her. There were a few servants, most likely to gather her belongings, but it was far from the glorious arrival she had hoped for.

Isabella stepped out of the carriage, pulling her dark cloak around her slender body, the garment hiding the red dress that so invitingly outlined her features. The corset not only showed her slim waist, but also pushed up her magnificent breasts, which were further complimented by the revealing cut that was all the rage in London.
The air was chilly and there was mist hanging in the air.
"My Lady, welcome.", said an elderly lady, obviously one of the head servants of the estate. "His Lordship is in the library....He is still occupied with business."
The woman's words were spoken hesitantly and she didnt dare to look into Isabella's eyes. The young woman instantly knew that it was all a lie. Her husband was perhaps truly in the library, but she doubted that it was purely for business reasons. So he was avoiding her.
Not wanting to give in to shame, Isabella proudly raised her head, her dark black curls, which hung freely down her back, moving at the gesture.
"I shall not see him then.", she said, putting on her most nonchalant tone. "Lead me to my room then. The journey has been long and tiresome."

As she stepped inside however, she caught sight of an elegantly dressed man by the stairs. Although it was the middle of the day, the interior of the stone manor seemed dark. Just then Isabella realized that everyone was also wearing black, as if the entire place was still in mourning for the last lady of the estate.
She stopped as she looked at the Lord, trying to make out his features in the badly lit grand entrance chamber. He was standing far away, but she could still guess that he was taller than her with broad shoulders. He had the posture of nobility, but there was also something broken about him.
She didnt move as she continued to fixate him, refusing to be the first to speak. She was his bride and a lady of royal blood, so she saw it as his duty to be the one to approach her. Such were the rules at court and as a Lord of England, she expected him to abide by the unwritten etiquette.

 

[silvertongue217]

Tick tock

Tick tock

TICK TOCK

That damn taunting clock

It haunted the middle aged lord following him through the manor and finding him no matter how much he hid from it or tried to block its sound. No matter where he went be it the library or the garden the sound of the clock followed some how reaching him from its place in HER room, the one they shared for so many years. Memories of the clock would always stir when he had it made for her, the look on her face when he presented it to her, the time they made love against it…… One of the many priest around London would have told him the memories were good that he should find strength in them. His wife would live on they would say to him he had no doubt that she would always be alive in his memories.

Screw his damn memories

“I want that clock broken into pieces” He murmured watching as his butler and best friend Ian came in. HE angrily drowned the last of his wine and whipped his mouth starring at the books all around him and wondering how many had been HERS. She loved to read after all and half the library…….

“I shall get that done right away sir” Ian said in a dry voice and Lord Lance Preston the third new he was just humoring him “but perhaps you would like to know that your new bride lady Isabella Is here” he said nodding at the door.

“Oh” Lance said his anger steadily increasing as he remembered what today was. The “king” had seen fit to give him his illegitimate daughter after a nasty little scandal Lance didn’t catch wind of until after he agreed to marry her. Of course even if she was squeaky clean he only said yes for the political power behind it and not because he had any interest in having a new wife. His lovely Elizabeth was the only woman for him and even though the sickness had taken her he would not nor could not couple or invite another woman into their bed. It was only because the king has personal requested (IE demanded) he take her that he had even agreed to the ridiculous request.

“You should really go welcome her to the castle” Ian said slowly “for the sake of the servants” he said all but telling Lance to get out of his seat and bring his arse downstairs.

“Fine” Lance snapped getting up and ignoring the half bottle of wine resting by him. He grabbed his black tunic puling it over his head as he stomped over to the door ignoring his butler and best friend. He pushed ah and through his dirty brown and blonde locks grabbing his unkempt hair and tying it back with a leather thong. He knew he looked a bit….. Well unkempt for lack of a better word. His hair as long reaching his shoulder blades, he had a rough five o clock shadow that told the world he hadn’t shaved in a few days, his face was handsome even with his grief with pale skin, sharp features and the most striking violet eyes. His body was clad in a simple but handsome black tunic and matching black leggings, a nice black and red over coat completed the ensemble and he hurriedly pulled it on letting the bottom flare out like a cape.

He took the stair two at a time finally stopping in the shadows of the grand staircase. He watched with dread as the door opened revealing the sun and warmth she had loved so much. He angrily shielded his eyes not bothering to open them again until he found the heat had gone and the darkness returned. When he finally opened them again a girl greeted him pretty and beautiful the dark cloak did little to hide the pretty body underneath and he found his lust stirring ever so slightly as he took in the pretty girl before him. Almost immediately as it came however a sense of guilt snapped forward and he immediately regretted lusting after another woman beside his wife. He vowed not to be around the girl unless he had to be swearing to his wife inside of his head that he wouldn’t touch her.

He heard Ian clearing his throat and sighed putting on his nicest smile. He stepped out of the shadows towering over her as he made his way down the staircase and over to her. He stopped in front of her and quickly bowed taking her hand in his and giving it a gentle kiss before dropping it as if it had burned him.

“Welcome to my home” He said his voice deep and rumbly “I welcome you to the estate I am Lord Lance Preston your new husband I am pleased about our marriage” He said his tone suggesting he was any thing but “and hope the castle becomes like a home to you” He said nodding at the servants to take her bags.

“You are in the south tower” He said continuing possed by his desire to get away from her “if you need any thing your ladies in waiting are waiting for you we have supper at sundown” He explained

 

[Mignonette]

As he stepped closer, Isabella was able to see him more clearly and she was not quite sure what to make of her new husband. He was undeniably handsome, with strong masculine features and intense eyes that captivated her even in the darkness. But there was also no doubt that he had not taken care of himself in quite a while, obviously not feeling the need to impress anyone.
His greeting was formal, and even cold and detached. He spoke what good manners dictated him to say and Isabella decided to follow his example. She curtsied stiffly, as she always did around nobles she didnt think much of and replied: "I am honored to be welcomed in your home as your bride. I will make sure to make you proud, my Lord."
Her voice was as flat and cold as his and she quickly withdrew her hand from him. If he wanted to play the uninterested husband, then she would be the cold wife. Isabella had always been told to never pine for a man who didnt pay her any attention.
Ever since she had been introduced to court, she had always had men at her feet, trying their best to get her attention, and later, even more.

Having a man like Lord Preston ignore her, was confusing, and also insulting. Instead she turned her gaze to the gentleman behind him, who was giving her a different look altogether. She could guess that he was appreciating what he saw, so she rewarded him by taking her cloak off, giving the men present a far better view of her body. Her husband however, only averted his eyes.
Was she ugly in his eyes? Did he have some preference in women that she could not meet? She doubted she would ever find out.
"I shall wish you a pleasant evening then, myLord. And I assume that I will see you at dinner."
She curtsied again and turned away, her pretty head raised high, as she carried herself with royal pride. She would not give him the pleasure to show how much this meeting had rattled her.

Beth, the elderly woman who was to be her lady in waiting, showed her the way to her room. Arriving in the luxurious chamber, Isabella was surprised to discover that it held none of her husband's belongings. Noticing her surprise, Beth spoke up:
"His lordship's chambers are in the northern part of the castle.", she explained.
Exactly opposite of her, as if he was terrified or disgusted by her presence. But once again, she would not show how much this affected her. Still, seeing as her lady in waiting was willing to speak, she decided to discover a little more about her new home.
"Is it usually so dark here, Beth?", she asked, as she surveyed her room, running her fingers over the fine wooden table, bed and trunks.
"Yes, milady. Ever since the death of Lady Elizabeth, bless her soul, he lord has demanded that all curtains remain closed. And in order not to waste precious candles, we light only a few of them."
Isabella could only shake her head at those words and then confidently walked up to her window, drawing back the fabric in front of it to flood the room with light.
"Well, Beth, I do not like such darkness. Therefore, all the rooms that I attend, are to have their windows opened."
It was an almost childish act of rebellion, but it was just her way of showing that she would claim this as her home, even if the Lord didnt appear to want her.
"Furthermore, as my lady in waiting, I do not wish for you to wear black. I respect his lordship's mourning for his wife, but as far as I know, that was over a year ago and the appropriate time for wearing black has long since passed. I wish for you to wear blues and greens instead."

When the servants began to carry in her trunk, she didnt command them around as she had first planned to do. Instead she sent them away and arranged her room herself. Her fine shoes went into one trunk, while her gowns were dividing according on occasions in several others. She took out her books and placed them on the solid wooden table. She took her time, while at the same time she tried to wrap her hand around her new situation. How was she supposed to proceed? Her husband didnt want her and she was not ready to simply accept the role of an abandoned wife. Instead she would find entertainment elsewhere. His friend had seemed interested. Now she only had to hope that he visited frequently or that he at least did not live far away. It was most improper to already set eyes on another man without even having consumated her marriage, but she doubted that Lord Preston would ever come to her bed. It was his duty of course, but so far from civilization, nobody would care whether he lived up to it or not.

Once dinner time came, Isabella made sure to change her gown. She appeared in a lovely cream colored dress, embroidered with pearls and golden threads. She had chosen it for two reasons: For one, it was bright, fighting the darkness and contrasting clearly with the black everyone else seemed to be wearing. Secondly, it was yet another piece that made her beauty shine. It brought out the raven shine of her black hair and pushed her prominent firm globes into focus. She wore a pendant, which almost indecently disappeared in the valley of her breasts and no other jewels than a pearl band in her hair.
She entered like a true princess, with graceful and confident steps and took the seat presented to her. She was surprised to find that she was not seated next to her husband, but rather close to his friend, who put a distance between the two.
Food was brought in and close to nothing had been said yet.
"Lord Preston... I mean, husband.", she stated, firmly underlining the latter, "you have not yet properly introduced me to the gentleman next to me. And you know that royal etiquette forbids me to strike pleasant conversation with him unless this happens.", she reminded him, casually raising the goblet of wine to her lips and taking a small sip. She tried very hard not to pull a face at the taste. She was used to sweet wine of the best quality, but the content of her goblet was incredibly strong with a bitter edge to it. It was wine gentlemen were most likely used to, but far too intense for a lady.
Still, she kept up her trained smile and pleasant, if formal manners. All the while, she was purposely turning her attention to Ian more often than not, almost as if wanting to show her husband just what he was missing.

 

[silvertongue217]

“She seemed to be interested in me” Ian said casually as they walked back up the staircase.

“I know what your doing” Lance said shortly “you are trying to get me angry and jealous to make it seem like I am in fact interested in her”

“I don’t know what your talking about” Ian said even though he smirked

“Have her if you want” Lance said turning to him and narrowing his eyes “Elizabeth was your friend to” he whispered his voice a deadly hiss as he struggled with his emotions.

“I know she was” Ian said frowning as his eyes grew sad “she was a friend of every one in the estate not just I she was loved but she has been gone for more than a year my lord-“

“Shush” Lance snapped narrowing his eyes “I do not wish to speak about it any more” He said turning and stomping up the staircase. He reached the tower that led to their bedroom and slammed the door shut watching with satisfaction as it rumbled and shook. He turned reaching for the bottle of wine he kept at the door and draining the whole bottle in one smooth motion. He felt the liquid burn his body and shuddered taking warmth in the only warmth he had felt in a long time. His violet eyes becoming hazy as the drink took hold. He stumbled forward reaching his bed in a matter of seconds and collapsing in it he closed his eyes and soon the blissful darkness of sleep awaited him as well as the voice of his love.

“Lance my love”……..

Later that evening

Lance eyes tightened trying not to yell at the “princess” when he awoke from his mid morning “nap” news of her changes already reached the castle. He felt a momentary twinge of guilt for the poor servant who told him that and was glad the bottle missed his head. He thought about mentioning it once again and lecturing her before he caught Ian’s subtle head shake to let it go. He sighed and sipped his wine letting it go for now. It was her estate to now which meant her side of the house and where she was at could be kept however she liked it no matter how angry it made him. She didn’t want to respect his wishes clearly and the fact that she had taken to full on eye fucking Ian was grating on him as well. He didn’t care truly she could fuck whoever she wanted but to do it so blatantly in front of him worried him if they were to attend some political function would she make him seem weak like that?

Probably

“Ian you may introduce your self” Lance said resisting the urge to smile
Let’s see her handle this!

“It is a pleasure to meet you Lady Isabella” He said smiling at her and nodding “my name is Ian I am the butler and caretaker of the mansion and the Lords best friend” he said nodding at her pleasantly “your lady in waiting Beth is my mother so she will be attending to you while I attend to the Lord” He explained making it clear that they would never be alone in the same room any ways.

“Even though he is a butler he is a good friend” Lance said nodding at Ian “I don’t refer to him as any thing but Ian and you may do so as well every one here gets a proper identity” he explained moodily stabbing at his food “You may leave us now Ian”

“Very well my lord” He said getting up and bowing at her he left disappearing and leaving them alone

“I know you are not pleased with this arrangement” Lance said pushing his food away and leaning back to look at her “but during political or social events I hope you act with more decorum then today we have to pretend our marriage is a happy one and you flirting with every other guy will not do either of us any good”

 

[Mignonette]

Isabella was aghast when her husband revealed that Ian was his butler. A servant! She had made eyes at a servant! With the shock came the anger, and although it was ridiculous, she blamed Lance for this. Almost instantly the smile she had directed at Ian vanished. She could not entertain herself with a butler, who was far beneath her station. Related to her personal maid servant no less! She was ready to scoff at herself and hid her displeasure by sipping some more of the wine.

By the time Ian had left, she was sitting rigidly in her chair, unable to touch the food in front of her any longer. Her body was trembling slightly in indignation, but she reminded herself of her royal training and kept up her elegant pose.
At Lance's reproachful words, she tensed slightly and sent him a quick glare, which just a moment later however was replaced with her trained smile again.
"Of course, dear husband. As I said before, I have every intention of making you proud.", she said, her words overly sweet and demure. What followed however, was not. "In return I hope that during political and social events you will not treat me like a leper, who deserves neither your touch nor your looks."
He was free to throw his critique at her, but she would instantly do the same. If he wanted to point out that she was failing in her duty, then she would remind him that he was too.

Again she sipped the wine, slowly accommodating her tongue to the strong taste. "You are right in saying that I am not pleased with this arrangement and it is quite clear that neither are you.", she began. "And I dont expect you to be a loving husband, but we have to accept that we are married now. By the king's orders no less and he will expect to see an heir as proof of this union sooner or later."
Her voice was bitter at those words, but they both had to remember that no matter how much they disliked this, there was still an authority bigger than them out there.

Not that her husband looked very impressed by those words. He apparently didnt expect the king to care very much and Isabella had to wonder whether he wasnt right. Her father had cast her out, and perhaps he would never ask about her again.
The thought troubled her, so she tried to banish it as quickly as possible.
Instead she focused on her wine once again, emptying the remaining contents in one swift gulp.
"We need to come to an arrangement, MyLord, if we are to live here together.", she finally said, trying to be civil.
She was ready to hear his demands, if he was ready to hear hers.
Suddenly she had to laugh, unable to hold back. This situation was so....ridiculous in her eyes. Here she was, with her husband, discussing what seemed like a treaty to live together. Isabella had rarely dreamed of marriage, but in her fantasies it was never like this. It was wild, passionate and intimate, not cold, formal and arranged.
Her laugh echoed through the dining hall, a sweet and hearty sound that would usually invite others to join in. But she was not at court anymore, and so her voice faded alone as she shook her head.
"I apologize, but this is most absurd.", she said boldly.

 

[silvertongue217]

The silence that followed was long as if lance was trying to size her up. In truth he wasn't surprised at her words he knew enough about her situation at the castle to know he was a punishment not a gift. It was fine really he was okay being the punishment he would only be a gift to one and one alone. The one who haunted his dreams and the ones whose touch he craved the most.

She was not his wife

"you are right" he said evenly pushing his food away fully and draining his wine in one gulp "lets be frank actually this situation is am absurd a punishment for you and no doubt your father thinks a gift for me" he said his tone suggesting it was nothing but the sort.

"I am sorry" he said deciding to try and be civil and nice as well "you have been sent here in exile and because of what you did given to a man because of a punishment that isn't fair a woman as young and as beautiful as you should be free to be with some one for you to find love and happiness" he stated showing a side that hadn't been there before.

" I welcome you to find love with some one" he said shrugging "be it one of the servants or the lords that visit the estate they dont come often but when they do you might love with one if you want to find pleasure one of the servants will be glad to help...." he trailed off before once again shrugging.

"I was married for a very long time" he stated getting to the meat of the situation "to a woman I love more than any thing I can not be with you I will marry you as my long demands but I will not cheat on my wife or join you in bed if you do find your self pregnant and wish me to I will claim the baby as mine or some thing along those lines but you will not bear my children or my cock" he said stating the facts

"besides that I will give you whatever you wish" he admitted leaning back in his chair "you deserve that much but other than gifts and the house I can not give you any thing else im sorry but you have married a man who is married to another and that won't change

 

[Mignonette]

They were speaking frankly with each other and Isabella appreciated his honesty. While she would no find love with her new husband, they could apparently still show respect to each other. She nodded at all his points, all the while pushing her empty goblet back and forth in her hands.
"I dont ever intend to take your wife's place.", she said slowly. "I respect and admire the love you hold for her, for such loyalty is rare." If non existent even in the world she came from. Widowed men mourned their wives of course, but they usually also wasted no time in finding a new partner who would manage heir estates, heirs and sexual needs. The fact that his heart still beat for his wife was admirable, but also a little sad to Isabella.

What surprised her however was how openly he suggested for her to find casual lovers for herself. No husband should be this liberal, but it just showed her how little he truly cared about their marriage.
"I also thank you for the freedoms you offer me. However, I can assure you that I have no interest in any of your servants. I am still a princess and will thus behave like one."
She almost regretted the words as soon as they were spoken. Had she truly acted as a princess, she wouldnt have been exiled into this unwanted marriage.
Still, the conversation ended on a more pleasant note and both parted ways most formally.

A week went by and Isabella saw very little of the man who was supposed to be her husband. He was always absent or locked away in his chambers. She heard the servants whisper about how much wine he consumed, but she did not intervene. Instead she hoped for some visits from the neighboring Lords, but their visits were brief and she found none of them to her liking.
With very little to do, Isabella roamed the castle and the gardens, read book and spent her time with embroidery. But after another week, she was starting to become restless. She felt lonely and there was only so much an educated lady could talk about with a servant. And, even worse, she was starting to become frustrated. Back in London, she had indulged in pleasurable encounters several times a week. Now she had gone without any for a fortnight.
She had attempted to pleasure herself with her fingers at night, and while she had climaxed, it still left her unsatisfied. She needed a man's touch and she needed it badly.

In her desperation, she turned towards the only male who was worthy of her and that was Lord Preston himself. The one man who had told her himself that she would never have him.
At first she tried to simply speak with him more, but their brief conversations during dinner always remained nothing more than formal. They talked about the weather and the current political situation and then parted ways again.

One evening Isabella became desperate. Three weeks into their marriage, she had learned her husband's routine and she decided to use it to her advantage.
Every thursday evening he would spend some hours in the library, going over the estate's finances. Isabella meanwhile sneaked into his room and took off her gown, carelessly throwing it over one of the chairs in the room. Dressed only in milky white stockings, which accentuated her long and slender legs, she laid down in the large master bed, presenting her perfect and young body to the man who would walk through the door soon.
Her position was chosen with care, showing off her best assets. Her full round breasts were heaving and falling with her breaths and the slight chill of the room caused her nipples to harden.
Surely no sane man would be able to resist such an offer. Lance might still love his wife, but Isabella was sure that he still had carnal needs. And she was more than willing to take care of them for a little bit of pleasure for herself.
Hearing footsteps and then the creaking of the door, she arched her back ever so slightly to more prominently display her breasts, while at the same time putting on her most seductive smile.

 

[silvertongue217]

staircase tiredly. It had been a week since his new "wife" entered the castle and thankfully things were going smoothly. She was more than. Willing to play at being a wife and for that he was thankful there would be no expectations of misconceptions about there marriage and she seemed fine with that. Lance was surprised at how sad that made him and he remembered going up to his room that night wondering if he had perhaps turned ugly. He was handsome back in the day but he had all the mirrors in the house smashed since his wife died and hadn't seen what he looked like in ages. Of course as the days went on he took her lack of interest for what it was

A blessing

A long day of the estates finances had left the older lord with a head ache and a back ache. He was grateful when he finally closed the large leather bound book and finished his last goblet of wine. He couldn't consume as much as he usually did today needing to keep himself sharp for the number crunching.

He was thankful when his bedroom came into sight. He quickly pushed open the door lighting a small candle as he went not even noticing who was in his bed as he pulled off his shirt. It wasn't u til he turned that he jumped his body going rigid in shock.

Isabella was in the bed he shared with his wife naked and exposing her self proudly. For a second lance felt lust shoot through his body once again and even felt his cock five a small twitch. She was so beautiful standing in moon light just like his......

He froze anger filling him his eyes narrowed and he Cle chef his fist standing there bare cheated and glaring at her

"get out" he whispered his voice deadly serious

 

[Mignonette]

He came in, yet he did not notice her right away. Instead he proceeded to take off his shirt and Isabella could not help but stare. He had a nice back, she admitted and she wondered what it would feel like to run her fingers over his skin.
Suddenly he turned and she could see his eyes roam her body. For a second she was sure that she had won his attention, but the victorious smile on her face vanished the moment he spoke.
Was he serious? Was he really telling her to get out. Her expression betrayed her confusion as she rose from the bed, standing in front of him in all her glory, her dark locks falling sensually down her back.
"Do you really mean that, my lord?", she attempted one last time. She had seen the spark of desire flash across his face and hoped that perhaps it would return.
She dared to take a step towards him, but as she was about to reach for him, he sent her such a cold look that she stopped in mid-motion.
He WAS being serious after all.

Again he slapped her ego and female pride by rejecting her so openly. And Isabella had a hard time hiding her disappointment. She gathered her gown from the chair and pulled it over her body, tying the bodice in the front with energetic motions.
"You had pleasure served to you on a silver platter with no emotional involvement expected.", she whispered to him, before she moved to the door, slamming it shut behind her.
That night, she cried for the first time in many years. Isabella wasnt the type of woman to show weakness, and she certainly wasnt someone who dwelled on it for too long. Instead, she focused on trying to find a solution to her problem.

She had seen that Lance had not been entirely unaffected by her body. She had seen lust, if only briefly. But he was still holding on to his wife and would not simply fall into another woman's arms. With him, she would have to take a different route.
By morning, Isabella was determined to get her husband to sleep with her. She would have to go about it slowly and carefully, but she would prove to herself that no man could resist her. Not even him.
It was a matter of pride and it was a matter of desire, seeing as she simply needed a man to satisfy her needs.


As they met at the breakfast table, Isabella mentioned nothing of the previous night. In fact, she spoke as if nothing had happened at all, even though she was subtly more attentive, by pouring him his drinks and casually asking about his plans for the day. She returned to the distance he had created, but was determined to breach it eventually.
"Lord Clayton is having a ball next week to celebrate the birth of his son. We are invited.", she informed him. There werent that many social gatherings in their area, so Isabella was actually looking forward to it. And such an occasion would force the two to at least act out the happy married couple. It was her chance to get closer to him, even if it appeared an act, and begin to convince him of her charms.

 

[silvertongue217]

Accidental double post

 

[silvertongue217]

He waited until she left to cry

He collapsed on his bed letting his grief take him and letting the tears fall off freely. He wasn't quite sure why he cried all he knew was that he didn't care who walked in. He didn't care if a servant caught him or even his new "wife" did. He was a lord damn it and entitled to do whatever he wanted even if what he wanted was to cry and drown himself in misery. He didn't know why he was crying if it was in mourning or if it was in sexual frustration. His wife had died one year ago and he hadn't been with a woman since. Then she came along and even though it was a huge secret in the kingdom lance knew exactly what she was used for in the kingdom. Her sexual prowess was infamous at least that's what his agents told him.

And she had been in his bed

He cried in pain and turned grabbing the emergency wine he had tucked away and uncorking the cap.he drowned it all in one smooth motion. He let it burn his body and his blood. He slid back into bliss letting sleep claim him once more

When he came down for breakfast he was back to his usual cold self. Some would think that it was because of his personality but in truth it was because of the wine he drank daily. For most wine made some one tipsy or silly but for him it acted as a block to his feelings. He was cold and calcuting when under its influence a fact he was grateful for. He barely noticed her different acting. He only reacted when she mentioned the ball.

"I already replied to the summons" he said evenly not mentioning it was a chance for him to speak to his agents " I ordered you a new dress and jewelry as well we will be attending" he said pushing his chair out and nodding at her. He turned disappearing into the sitting room.

"if I may lady" Ian said.appearing from the shadows " if you wish to get through to the lord then you have to get rid of the wine it turns him cold" he explained before turning on his heel and dissapearing unto the kitchen

 

[Mignonette]

When he announced that he had already started preparations for the ball, she simply nodded. While she would have liked to pick out her own gown, she trusted his decision. Or rather, decided to go along with it for the sake of her goal.
"Thank you.", she almost had to call after him as Lance practically fled the breakfast table, leaving her alone there.

To her surprise, Ian walked up to her, providing her with unexpected advice. So the wine was one of the obstacles in her way. Simply banning it from the household was out of question. It would most likely make him even worse. For a man who probably depended on the drink for now, she would have to ease him away from it slowly.

Isabella had to chuckle to herself how her life had turned. She was used to seduce men, though usually she had to do very little seducing. Most of the time it was enough to smile in a man's direction and he would come running. Lord Preston actually required her to put all she had learned into practice.
"Thank you, Ian.", she said to the butler, sending him a quick smile, before rising from the breakfast table herself.

During the next few days, she continued her little pleasantries, seemingly respecting Lance's boundaries, while at the same time easing herself into his life. After having studied his routine very closely, she managed to learn how to run into him in the hallways, always making it look like a coincidence. At times she he would come across her in the library. She would always act surprised when he entered and would quickly apologize and leave. But she was always somehow there, not giving him a chance to get her out of his mind, but also not giving him any reason to get mad.
During their diners she would pour him water, not leaving any room for wine in his goblet. And before he could argue, she would strike up a new topic of conversation to keep him distracted.
All the while, she was secretly still frustrated. At night, her fingers would dart in and out of her hungry womanhood, making her moan in desperate pleasure. The self induced bliss was enough to relieve her of some tension, but it still wasnt enough to satisfy her.

Finally the day of the ball had arrived and Isabella donned the gown her husband had picked out for her with the help of her maiden. She also put her hair up in a fashionable and flirtatious, yet elegant style, adorning her hair with a string of pearls that matched her jewels.
Like the well trained courtesan that she was, she almost floated down the stairs and smiled as she saw her husband's gaze on her. There it was again, that flash of lust she had seen once before. But just like last time, he reigned himself in and turned away from her.
Still, that one flash of interest from him was enough to keep Isabella's hope alive that she still had a chance to win his attentions.

They didnt talk at all during the carriage ride, but when they arrived, the entered Lord Clayton's manner arm in arm. They were announced as Lord and Lady Preston and Isabella could feel all eyes on them as they walked towards Lord and Lady Clayton to congratulate them on the birth of their first son.
After the congratulations, the dances began and custom required the couple to join at least once.
"I never expected you to be a capable dancer.", Isabella complimented him, her words utterly honest as she allowed him to lead her through the dance. The courtiers at London were expected to know how to lead a dance, but a Lord from the distant north was a true surprise for the exiled princess.
After the one compulsory dance however, it became quite obvious that it would be the only one for the evening.

Before dinner, the guests were allowed to meet the guest of honor of the evening, the newly born Clayton. Most of the ladies cooed over the infant, while the men kept in the back. Isabella was not among the fascinated women, but stood next to Lance a short distance away.
"How come there are no children running around your castle?", she asked curiously. She knew that bringing up his dead wife was a bad idea, but there were times when the young woman simply could not control her curiosity.

 

[silvertongue217]

It had been a hard week for Lance

On the one hand his new “wife” didn’t make any attempt to share his bed again. He received no surprised, which was both a relief to him and a strange sadness. Clearly she got the message and even though a part of him wished she didn’t he was happy there was no issues. Of course then she suddenly began appearing during his day always hovering and being pleasant with him. He was always pleasant back even though he felt a bit of confusion and frustration at her suddenly being around so much. Technically it was her manor but it still bothered him that she was having such free reign of it.

Then there was the wine

Every time at dinner she would give him water no matter how much he protested. Of course he still had his drinks in the cellar and the wine he had hidden all over the house but the Lord quickly realized she was doing it on purpose. He tried to argue or be angry with her about it but she had this way of changing or talking around him that left him with a headache. The old him would have been impressed by how well she played the game even saw her as a potential alley but the new him simply shrugged and let it happen.

How the mighty had fallen

He worked his jaw a bad habit he had when he was either angry or upset “my wife was barren” He finally hissed out clenching his glass of water she had insisted in putting in his hand. He took a small sip wishing beyond any thing he had some wine before turning to her.

“She was barren and could not give me a child” he explained his voice saying not to continue the line of questioning. He turned instead nodding at the dance floor and taking her hand expertly.

“Let’s dance” He said all but pulling her back to the dance floor. He took her hands again and began dancing with her his expensive and handsome cape flaring out across his body. He had shaved for the night and even cut his hair to some thing half way respectable showing off his face more and handsome defining features.

“You didn’t seem interested in the child” He remarked surprisingly interested in her “do you not wish to have children?” He asked curiously spinning her.

 

[Mignonette]

The news about his wife's infertility surprised Isabella and only made her respect his love for Elizabeth even more. Most men would cast a barren wife aside to assure the birth of an heir, but Lance had continued to hold his wife in his heart until the very end. For just a second, Isabella wondered whether she should not abandon her plan and leave this man aching for his dead love. But just a moment later her resolve returned. No, she was his wife now. She had a right to share his bed.

She was torn out of her thoughts when he took her hand and led her to the area reserved for dancing. She allowed him to lead, while she simply followed the steps of the dance, she knew by heart. He asked her about children and her lips set in a straight line.
"I never expected to marry.", came her surprisingly honest reply. She had dreamed about it, of course, but she had always expected to remain the King's pawn, charming one gentleman after the other, before being allowed to retreat into a small manor in London as a reward for her services.
"And even now, as a wife, you have made it quite clear that there will be no heirs. I have accepted your decision and I have no intention of carrying the child of another man."
Perhaps Isabella had far less morals than most women of her time, but she still had some. While she had seduced other men, her mother had always made sure to teach her ways of not getting with child. It wouldnt be fair on the babe to grow up a bastard, born from a lusty union that had nothing to do with love.

They finished the dance in silence, before moving to grab something to quench their thirst. The goblet she handed him this time was filled with wine, for she knew better than to keep him from it entirely.
Although Isabella had wished to remain by Lance's side, especially now that he was warming up to her, she saw Lady Clayton calling her over to admire her son.
Reluctantly she left her husband and moved to join the other women gathered around the finely carved crib.
By the time Isabella could free herself from the crowd again, she noticed that Lance was not standing where she had last seen him.
Moving around the chamber, she tried to seek him out, but her husband was nowhere to be found. Was he avoiding her again? Surely not, for they had both agreed to act the happy couple during such events.
Abandoning the more crowded areas, Isabella moved to walk the hallways until she heard voices - one of them unmistakably Lance's. He was conversing with other gentlemen who's voices also sounded strangely familiar to her.
Hiding behind a column, she listed in, tensing every now and then at what she was hearing.

 

[silvertongue217]

Lance watched her leave blowing a short breath of relief. He drained the goblet of wine one one smooth motion and stepped back retreating into the shadow of the pillars. It was only then he pulled out his pocket watch he stroked the finally carved metal and jewels and sighed trying not to think about who had given it to him. Instead he popped it open checking the time and nodding happily. She had left just in time it seemed he had a meeting in exactly five minutes and he knew his agents liked to be punctual. It was a quality he enjoyed immensely and was one of the main reasons he picked them. He placed his goblet on a spare tray and quickly walked keeping to the shadows so his wife would not find him.

He reached a spare empty hallway and paused leaning against the wall and waiting. Luckily he timed the whole thing perfectly and seconds later three men and a woman appeared out of the shadows nodding at him. Two were dressed in servants garbs while the woman had on a expensive ball gown that made her look like a lady even if she was nothing but.

“Code word” Lance said his tone all business like

“Do we really have to do this?” the woman asked in a noble accent “you bloody well know its us!”

“Code word” Lance repeated trying to resist the urge to smile

“Elizabeth” One of the men murmured and Lance nodded

“What news have you from the capital?” Lance asked leaning against the window seal

“The princess Is not happy with her husband to be” The lady said smiling “it would seem the engagement is in danger of falling apart even more so the Duke is threatening to rebel if he doesn’t get to marry the princess”

“Surely he knows rebellion would never work?” Lance said snorting and shaking his head

“He seems to think his father the general and his own military training is enough for him to take on the king” The man interjected shaking his head

“Hmmmm” Lance said stroking his chin “Has he met with any one yet?”

“He has a meeting with some advisors in secret in a week” The woman stated calmly

“Make sure the king knows about that meeting and make sure he knows the info is from me” Lance said deciding to grab the brownie points why he can “Was there any thing else?”

 

[Mignonette]

Isabella was more than shocked as she listened to the conversation unfold. So her cold husband had a network of spies in the capital. Most likely he was more than aware of what her life had been really like before she had been given to him in marriage.
At the same time she was also very surprised that Lord Preston still had any interest in court politics and affairs. Apparently he was not as isolated from everything as she had thought. Perhaps, if she played her cards right, she could use all of this to her advantage. Is she managed to lure him into her arms, perhaps he could lure him into using his spying network more actively to gain more power at court. Eventually the king would have to take notice and perhaps invite them back to the capital more often. It would be her chance to reclaim some of her old life.

A smile grew on her face as she envision her plan unfolding perfectly. And while she had thought of showing her presence at first, she retreated instead, waiting for Lance in the main hall.
When he re-appeared, she acted all surprised and worried.
"And here I thought you had left me.", she chided him teasingly, as she placed her hand on his arm briefly, as one would expect a worried wife to do. He still thought he had a secret and she enjoyed having an information advantage over him, even if it had been won by accident.
"I am getting rather tired of this event. Everyone seems to be connected in the most interesting ways here. There are all kinds of secret alliances in this room, yet I dont know any of those people well enough to truly enjoy conversing with them."
Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she underlined the part where she spoke of secret alliances. But before Lance could comment, she sent him a smile and slipped towards one of the servant carrying drinks to fetch herself a glass of wine, silently toasting herself.

"Perhaps we should leave soon.", she continued as she returned to his side, her hand returning onto his arm. "You must be getting awfully annoyed at our constant proximity."
The last sentence had been whispered to him, her breath tickling his neck as her red lips remained close to him. To the outside world it probably appeared like a young besotted wife whispering sweet nothings to her beloved husband and most people only smiled briefly at the couple, before continuing their conversations. Isabella on the other hand enjoyed tempting Lance like this. She had noticed that the Lord had a hard time fighting against his desires when she became too sensual and it just reminded her that she had at least a speck of power over him. Sooner or later, he would cave in to desire.

 

[silvertongue217]

Lance sighed feeling her lips and trying to resist the urge to shudder. He bit back the groan and smiled waving at the people smiling and leaning in to nip at her ear as his hands slid across her body. He made sure enough people saw it before pulling away pretending to look embarrassed as he grabbed his wives hand. He made sure he played his part well and soon he saw the whispering and knew every one was talking about what a happy couple they were. Lance nodded to himself pleased at his work before leading her across the dance floor. He reached the end and turned starting towards the door.

He didn’t really give her a chance to speak suddenly he was tired of playing the games with her and pretending to be some thing they weren’t. Thankfully Ian was waiting with the carriage and it swung open easily. He helped her in before turning shooting every one a last parting wave before he climbed in himself and shut the door. He sighed leaning against the chair and gathering his thoughts before he finally turned to her.

“You misunderstand me my lady” Lance said looking at her with a mixture of sadness and frustration “I am not annoyed by our constants proximity” he said resisting the urge to partake in his wine again and instead looking at her seriously “you are pleasant company nice smart attractive any man in the ballroom would be lucky to be with you” He said stating clearly

“If this had been in the past…” He trailed off before sighing and shaking his head “It doesn’t matter just don’t think my shortness or my being closed off is because you upset me or frustrate me” He said before turning to look out at the window and trying not to look at her.

If he did he might do some thing he regretted

 

[Mignonette]

Isabella had to smile to herself at his words, as she sat across from him in the carriage. He said he was not annoyed at her proximity to him and that was a first victory for her. Just a few weeks ago, he would have pushed her away in an instant. Now he was at least tolerating her and speaking honestly of his thoughts and feelings, at least when it mattered.
"I am glad to hear that.", she said, looking at him with an honest smile. "And I stand by our arrangement. I do not intend to replace your wife in any way. All I want is to uphold a respectable image in society and be treated with respect. That is all I need."

Oh, she needed so much more though. She needed to feel his lips on hers, his hands groping and massaging her breasts and his cock driving in and out of her wetness, as she shook and moaned in pleasure. Her entire body shivered as the lustful thoughts invaded her mind and she needed to close her eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath to still her mind.
She was getting aroused more and more easily these past few days, her self induced pleasure losing more and more of its spark.

They didnt speak again for the rest of the journey and by the time they reached the castle again, Isabella practically fled into her room, where she tore her clothes off her body and made herself comfortable in bed. She needed release or she would go mad. Her hand started to pinch her nipples, as another stroked the moist lips of her sex. She moaned softly, allowing her mind to return to her previous images. Somehow she imaged Lance and her in the carriage. Making mad and wild love, the bumps in the road only adding to the thrill of their coupling.
"Ohhh Lance....yesss"
Isabella's moans turned louder as she slipped a finger and then another into her pussy, losing herself more and more in her sinful fantasy.
A few minutes later she found her release, her body shaking as she let out everything she felt. Only as she started to come down from her bliss did she fully realize that she had really envisioned Lance as her lover in her lustful thoughts. The realization disturbed her so greatly, that she instantly jumped out of bed and pulled on her nightgown, pacing up and down the chamber to calm down.

All the while, she hadnt realized that Ian had witnessed her little act of self-pleasure. Seeing as his mother had already retired, he had regarded it as his duty to check on the lady to see if she needed any assistance. Instead he had heard soft moans from her room, as well as the name of his master being uttered in pure pleasure and bliss.

 

[silvertongue217]

Ian heard the screaming and moaning of his master name and he smiled resisting the urge to spy on her. She was a beautiful girl sexy and Ian couldn’t help but check her out the first few times he saw her. Of course honor and duty to his master and the man he considered a brother dictated he not do any thing. Ian was content with that wanting the young woman to fall in love with his old friend. He still remembered lady Isabella how radiant she had been and beautiful. Her presence in the manor was warm and bright and she brought a certain light to the manor that he doubted any one would be able to replace.

But he knew his friend was lonely and Ian was tired of seeing him in mourning. In truth every one in the estate was moving on and coming to re love life after the forced grief they had all been put in. He knew his Lord was still mourning but surely this girl would be able to help him some how…..

Only time would tell

A month went by without any more things of note happening. Lance and his “wife” continued there dance each moving around the other. He found his drinks disappearing more and more but ignored it to busy with handling the finances and the neighboring villages to give it much thought. He tried to keep his new wife busy by giving her tasks around the manor and asking his servants to show her how to live in the north.

“Fuck!” Lance growled pushing out of his chair and pacing across the room. He starred at the letter Ian delivered today trying to make it burn through sheer force of will. Instead of burning however it laid on his desk taunting him with its words.

The king was coming

He quickly reached the door ripping it open and all but running down the stairs. He knew Isabella was in her room so he quickly made his way over there as fast as his long legs would take him. He reached the Door and knocked not waiting for a come in before opening the door and thrusting himself in.

“your father is coming in two days” He said breathing heavily.

 

[Mignonette]

A full month passed without any incidents. Isabella continued playing her game, taking up more and more space in the Lord's life without being overly pushy about it. The wine in the household also lessened considerably, though there was always just enough to keep him from getting into a bad mood.
But the peaceful routine was interrupted most unexpectedly.

Isabella had been in her room, sitting on the broad window still with a book in her lap, one of her hand absentmindedly playing with a ruby pendant around her neck. She looked up in surprise when she saw Lance enter her room. Not once had he done this in the past and the message he delivered caused the book to slip out of her grip, landing with a thud on the floor. A second later she was standing as well, staring at him in utter disbelief.

"My father? The King?", she asked, just to make sure she had heard right. But it was indeed true.
"He cannot find us living in separate rooms! He will think we defied his orders and everyone knows better than to defy a king!", she almost panicked, at first not even fully grasping the advantages this situation brought her. Instead, she just feared what her parents would say if they saw that things were not going as they had wished.
"Did he say when?" Isabella asked, as she frantically began to throw her belongings into one of the trunks. "Tell Ian and some other servants to move at least half of my belongings into your chamber. They have to at least think we reside there as a couple."
As always it was all about keeping up appearances, but this was so much easier to accomplish while outside. In their own home, there were so many more things and details they would have to consider.

For a moment she stopped her frantic running about and looked up at Lance. "How long will they stay? Did they say?"
As the panic started to settle, her mind began to embrace the opportunity offered to her.
"We will have to share a bed during their stay here...", she said slowly, as if she was saying it more to herself than to him. She didnt even look at him at those words, but instead stared full of wonder into her trunk, where she kept all her nightgowns.

 

[silvertongue217]

He watched her moving across her room almost as if outside of his own body. He felt himself nodding turning to Ian who was already springing into action at the news. He sent a momentary prayer up to the northern gods for blessing him with Ian before he turned once again starring at her as if she was a strange beast with three heads. He didn’t know what he had expected coming in here but suddenly he found himself frozen as he realized what this meant. Ian’s words floated back up to him that night from the party telling him that she had masturbated to him that night and called his name. Lance remembered groaning and masturbating him self that night furiously rubbing and stroking his stiffening manhood as he thought about his new wife. It was only after he had finished and his cum coated his hand that he felt guilt for “cheating” on his wife.

It didn’t stop him from doing it again the following night

She was going to have to move into his room

The thought terrified him and aroused him more than he cared to admit. Ever since the party he found his resolve slipping ever so slightly. Part of it was because of her repeated attempts to enter his life. It was throwing him off carefully chipping away at the carefully constructed walls he built after his wife died. He would have turned to the wine as a final resort but suddenly that was not as plentiful as it usually was. The Lord was going mad and she was always there taunting and teasing him with her flesh and her proximity.

“You are right” Lance said nodding his head as the servants came in finally finding his voice “they did not say how long they are staying but we must get you moved in right away” He explained grabbing her arm and holding her hand. He quickly led her out of the room turning down a few twisting hall until they got to his side of the castle. HE ignored the depressing stifling feeling and opened the doors to his chamber wincing as he looked at it with her eyes for the first time.

To put it simply it was a shrine

His wife’s thing still hung up in the closet, her linens still hung from the sink, her vanity pictures and jewels still scattered the room. In truth it looked like she hadn’t died as every thing was dusted as if her return was expected any minute. Lance looked around and felt sadness again before finally he turned to her.

“I’m sorry” he said clearly looking pained and hurt “I didn’t mean for you to ever see this” he said shakily trying to keep his cool not even sure why he was apologizing.

 

[Mignonette]

Isabella was surprised when he unexpectedly grabbed her hand and led her to the part of the castle which she always carefully avoided after the night he had thrown her out of his bed. She had followed him almost everywhere in the castle, but had always respected that space he had intimately shared with Elizabeth. Now he had led her there on his own accord and for the first time Isabella could see how many of his wife's belonging were still scattered about. It was truly no surprise that the Lord could not move on. Everything about the chamber was a vivid reminder of the woman who once lived there.
"Dont apologize.", she said, placing her hands on his shoulders and gently pushing him towards the door. She would not expect him to pack up his beloved's belongings. It would be too cruel, so she would have to take over the task herself.
"I will not throw away a thing, I swear.", she assured him. "I will place all of it in her trunk and once my family leaves, I shall return it all to its original place.

She hoped that one day she would be able to store those object away for good, but now it was still too early. His heart still ached for the woman who had long since left their world.
"Go, I will prepare everything here.", she coaxed him again, giving him a quick reassuring smile that she really would not damage any of his wife's belongings.

Before she began to pack everything away, she took a moment to take in the room. Elizabeth had been a lucky woman indeed, she thought. The jewels were all gorgeous, made only of the finest gems and most skillfully crafted gold and silver. Even the gowns still scattered around were of the softest silk, cut in the fashion that had been all the rage just a year ago. Yes, there was no doubt that Lord Preston had spared no expenses for his wife.
Knowing the value of each item, both material and emotional, Isabella was careful about storing everything in one trunk. It wouldnt even have to leave the room, as she could just claim it as her own in front of her parents.
As she stored the last item and closed the trunk, she had to laugh to herself. Here she was, respecting the belongings of a woman who was her fiercest rival, despite the fact that she was dead.

With a look around the room, she noticed how empty it suddenly looked. Luckily, Ian and the other servants soon brought in her own trunks and she proceeded to scatter her own items across the room. Her brushes and jewels, as well as her books and little trinkets from London. They were all carefully placed to mingle with the interior of the room.
By the time she was just placing the last book down, Lance returned and she sent him an apologetic look. Seeing the room changed so must have been hard for him.
"Im sorry, my lord.", she said sincerely. "But once the King leaves, I will move back to my old chambers.", she repeated her promise from before.
Though again secretly she hoped that perhaps there would be no need for another tedious move. That while she would never take Elizabeth's place in his heart, she would at least be able to take her place in his bed.

To lighten the mood a little, she attempted a joke. "And do not worry, dear husband. Your new wife does neither snore nor sleepwalk. Your good night's rest will be assured."
Perhaps it was a poor attempt of making him smile, but Isabella tried nevertheless, a small smile gracing her own lips, as she looked at him. She was going to make the best of the situation. The question was, how much was he going to tolerate before it all became too much for him.

 

[silvertongue217]

“he let you move her stuff” I an said looking at her in awe as if she had just grown a tail. Before she could ask why he was so shocked Lance walked back in his expression rigid as he surveyed the room. Every thing of Elizabeth’s was gone packed away and stored in a truck that he could tell was carefully packed. He frowned realizing how hard it must have been for Isabella to pack away his wife’s things and move into a room that served as a shrine to his dead wife and for the first time in a while he felt a bit of shame in his actions. A year his wife had not been on this world yet he refused to let her rest by keeping her stuff up for his viewing pleasure. He realized how sad he must have looked to her and cleared his throat giving a look to the servants that clearly said to get out.

Ian closed the door behind him and he moved forward looking around at the room “thank you” He said holding his hand up to tell her to be quite “I know how difficult it must have been to pack my dead wives belongings” he said speaking bluntly “I know how hard it must have been for you to come here and live in her shadow” He said realizing exactly what he had been doing to her and feeling intense guilt. “my position has not changed I cant be with you and I doubt I ever will be able to but you deserve to have a manor that isn’t mourning its previous lady” he murmured trying to fight the urge to throw up.

“Tomorrow you have free reign of the decorating in the manor” he said drawing a shaky breath “you can change the servants garb and open the windows you will also move in here with me if you wish or you can keep your old room” he said shrugging “I have treated you unfairly since you got here and for that I apologize while you may never claim me you can at least make this home your own” He said before turning and going to the bathroom. He didn’t know if she was following or not but didn’t bother to close the door realizing she would see him naked or in the bath eventually any ways. He murmured and I’m sorry to his wife and then stripped revealing his naked body as he began to fill the nice jeweled tub filled with warm steaming water.

 

[Mignonette]

Isabella kept staring at him as if she was waiting for him to reveal that it was all a joke. Or for her to wake up from a dream, for she could scarcely believe this to be real. He was apologizing to her! And giving her free reign over the house!
Now those were privileges she hadnt even been aiming for, but still, she was grateful.
"Thank you...", she said, her voice still betraying how incredulous she was. Quickly trying to find her voice again she added: "I know that allowing me this is much harder for you than I can imagine. But I have no intention of wiping every memory of your wife from this mansion. I just wish for everyone to let go of the sorrow associated with her image."

Let everyone remember Elizabeth, but at least she wanted them to remember her fondly, as well as realize that she was a part of the past, while Isabella was the present, as well as the future.
Truth be told, Isabella was amazed how her selfish plan had ended up in her becoming quite understanding of her husband, actually learning to respect his feelings and boundaries, at least to some degree. She could take away his wine slowly and could force him to spend time with her, but she never tried to cut his emotional attachment to the woman who seemed to be the love of his life.

She watched him move to the bathroom, leaving the door open. Although she knew she should look away, she could not. She watched him undress and her breath quickened every so slightly. God, how she wanted this man. How she wanted to feel his fingers and lips on her body. While it was a wild guess, Isabella was sure that he was a magnificent love. Gentle, attentive, yet also passionate and intense.
With almost shaky steps she walked towards the bathroom, watching him in the tub for just a moment.
"You should not tempt your wife like this, my lord.", she said, trying to hide her desire behind a teasing joke. "Especially not after reminding her that she can never have you."
At first it appeared as if she was just going to stand there and stare, but instead her hand reached for the door handle and she pulled the door close, leaving him the complete privacy of the bathroom, while she returned to make sure that the servants had executed the move to her satisfaction.
He had resisted her before, now she was turning the situation back on him. Even though Isabella had to admit that she would have liked nothing better than to join him in the tub, their bodies intimately joined as they explored each other.
But there would be time for that later. Her father had allowed her a most pleasant entry into Lance's bed and her mind was already racing with all the things she could do to make him hers in body.

 

[silvertongue217]

Lance sank down hearing her words and biting back the low groan of desire. He found himself already starting to regret what he had decided. Isabella was not the kind of girl to give up no matter how much she pretended she had….. No she was planning some thing or at least bidding her time. He smiled a little despite the situation realizing she must not have heard the stories and rumors surrounding him. If she had she might have paid him more attention or at least played the game a little more aloof. Of course Lance just agreed to share a bed with her so maybe he strategy was working more than he……

“No” he growled angrily washing him self clean “I will not couple with you Isabella” he murmured trying to convince him self “I will stay loyal to Elizabeth” he said trying to sound as forceful as he could as if doing so would make the words any more true.

If only he could believe that

Three days later he stood waiting outside with his “wife” and wearing his finest suit and cape. He tried to hide his dread at the meeting as well as his own tiredness. Since sharing a bed with Isabella his nights seemed to be restless filled with dreams that featured the two of them in various stages of sex fueled passion. It was all he could to race out of the room every morning getting up before she got up and coming in after she had fallen asleep. Even with his attempts it was still a bad situation one he couldn’t have forseen.

And now he would have to act the part of husband

“We have never kissed “ he said suddenly turning to her and looking a little fearful “we are going to have to kiss in front of the king” He said worriedly “I haven’t kissed any one since-“ he stopped trying to resist the urge to blush has he cleared his throat roughly