Lies & Deceit: The Extraordinary Life of Amy Winston, #3

By Liza O'Connor

Despite her lack of dowry and cloudy past, Amy Winston becomes one of the most sought-after young ladies in the London marriage mart. Some desire her for her beauty and charm while others appreciate her unique skills of seeing with her mind, healing with her hands, and disappearing in plain sight. By her choice of husbands, she secures her safety. However, her marriage almost brings the English Parliament to its knees.

• Language: English
• Publisher: New Authors Online
• Release date: Apr 6, 2019
• ISBN: 9781386516675

Liza O'Connor

   Liza lives in Denville, NJ with her dog Jess. Having an adventurous nature, she learned to fly small Cessnas in NJ, hang-glide in New Zealand, kayak in Pennsylvania, ski in New York, scuba dive with great white sharks in Australia, dig up dinosaur bones in Montana, sky dive in Indiana, and raft a class four river in Tasmania. She’s an avid gardener, amateur photographer, and dabbler in watercolors and graphic arts. Yet through her entire life, her first love has and always will be writing novels. She loves to create interesting characters, set them loose, and scribe what happens in a myriad of genres. http://www.lizaoconnor.com/   

Book preview

Chapter 1

Amy Winston finished the final touches to her auburn hair. The lady’s maid had pulled her hair back from her face, so all the curls fell down her back. However, Amy felt the result was too draconian. Thus, she teased out strands of hair here and there, creating a wispy halo about her head. She tucked white baby’s breath flowers about the crown of her head, increasing her angelic halo effect. She smiled at the image in the mirror. Her green eyes sparkled and her cheeks blushed due to her excitement.

Her sponsor and surrogate mother, Ann Halloway opened her door. Seeing Amy was dressed and ready for the ball, she smiled. You look very beautiful, Amy. If you can spare a moment, I need to speak to you before we leave.

Amy noticed the tension in Ann’s face and followed her silently to her suite. She knew what Ann was going to say and had she and her beloved Antonio not come to such a clear understanding earlier, the upcoming conversation would have broken her heart.

Once both settled onto the settee in Ann’s rooms, the grand dame took on her hard general’s face. While never a true general, Ann did weld a position of power during the Napoleonic war, and she still held that power. Amy did not know Ann’s exact title and responsibilities, but she knew Antonio received his orders from her.

Ann stared at her with sternness. "Amy, there are many things that cannot be explained to you just yet. I do hope you understand that does not mean either your intelligence or loyalty is at question. I happen to think you a most extraordinary young woman, the finest I have ever known.

Amy smiled in happy surprise. She had not expected such a remarkable compliment as that.

Ann continued, giving Amy sparse time to enjoy her praise. You have proven yourself both courageous and strong, and tonight will require both. First, I need you to attract further suitors. With McAllister firmly settled on Domnika, only Chavier remains, which will not do. There were two gentlemen who had requested audiences this week. only I declined on your behalf. I will point them out to you and perhaps a smile their way will encourage them to try again.

Ann paused, evidently expecting Amy to object.

I will rise to my task, General, Amy replied.

Mrs. Halloway could not hide her concern and worry.

Amy, Antonio has also been given an assignment, one which he will struggle to complete, but it is imperative that he does it well. He must show a marked preference to a young lady at the ball. She grabbed Amy’s hand. My dear, if he sees you are angry or hurt by his actions, I fear he will forget his duty entirely, or do it so poorly that it fails all the same.

Amy stared into Ann’s worried eyes. I would not want that to happen. I will promise to only smile when I see him.

Mrs. Halloway embraced her. I knew you would not fail me in this!

Amy felt guilty for not admitting that she and Antonio had already come to terms in this matter, so the dear woman wouldn’t fret so. However, Antonio insisted Ann deserved to suffer a bit after the hell her orders had caused him. She had evidently told him of this assigned seduction right before he left on his last assignment. He insisted it was his worry over the future order that had almost got him killed. He could not bear to break Amy’s heart as she watched him seduce another woman.

Thus, she did not share with Ann that they had promised never to resent moments of pleasure taken in the line of duty, as she searched for a husband and Antonio used his skills of seduction, along with other impressive skills, to keep England safe.

But she shared none of this with Ann. Both Antonio and I can obey orders.

Ann looked as if a great burden left her shoulders. You are a true soldier, Amy. Now stand up and let me see your gown better.

Amy stood and walked across the room and turned before Ann’s full-length wall mirror. The rose-colored gown was both beautiful and provocative. The under-garment pushed her breasts out and up like two half grapefruits on a plate. The neckline was so low, she was certain the dark rose circle of her nipples would show, if not for the delicate trim of lace.

It is very becoming, Ann assured her. And necessary to attract more suitors. When a young woman lacks a dowry, she must present well the attributes she possesses.

Amy nodded, hoping her bold attributes would not pop out of her neckline the first time she leaned over.

When she returned to her room, Ann’s daughter, Catherine, and her best-friend Domnika were inside waiting. Both seemed shocked by her appearance.

I cannot believe Mother chose such a...style for you, Catherine stammered.

Domnika laughed and shook her head. "It is a good thing you have four King’s men to protect you. Tonight, you will need them all. Shall I return Darby to you so you have a fifth?

Amy laughed and insisted Domnika keep Darby. Gunter will have his hands full protecting both of us from seduction in the gardens, for you look quite delectable as well.

If you two must plan your seductions and ruin, do so without me, Catherine declared. I have to see to our little soldiers. I promised Mother they’d be in bed before we left.

Amy knew the twenty-seven children Antonio had rescued and brought to Ann to raise as little soldiers were not the reason Catherine left the room.

Catherine’s angst was due to being engaged to one man while loving another. The man she loved, Count Valeski, was a married scoundrel who attempted to steal her away at the prior ball. Catherine was convinced her mother had him killed and had asked Amy for help to prove otherwise.

Once Catherine had left, Amy showed Domnika the letter she had written to the Count and asked Amy if she thought she was doing the right thing by sending it to the Count on Catherine’s behalf.

Domnika nodded and said she did. Only how did you get his address? Surely, if Catherine had it, she would have written her own letter, asking him to provide proof of life.

Amy grimaced. I don’t have the address quite yet. I’m planning to explain to Chavier, Catherine’s need to know for certain that her mother did not have him assassinated and then ask him to provide me the count’s address.

"If he answers, I think this will do it, but if not, don’t give up. If you could make me love you, then Catherine will eventually forgive you for your attempts to discover how the Count enthralls his victims. Catherine needs you, whether she knows that just now or not. Everyone needs a friend like you."

She still has you.

Yes, but I am not half so generous and loving.

Well, you make her laugh. You make all of us laugh. And no one is more honest and forthright.

Then let me be forthright for a moment. Darby mentioned the agreement that you told him we had made: that either of us would happily give way if a gentleman preferred the other. Oddly, I seem to have forgotten us making such an agreement.

That’s because there was no need to state it aloud. However, Darby needed to hear it, so he could honorably shift his attention from me to you, where his heart belongs. You do think him very fine, don’t you?

Domnika smiled. I do. The more I discover, the better I like him. He seems to carry his flaws on the outside and his better features within. I suppose it comes from not needing to please or prove himself to others.

You have not found so many flaws, have you?

Domnika laughed. No, you seemed to have unearthed all his flaws during your interrogation. I have only discovered fine traits since.

This led the girls to a happy conversation of Darby’s fine qualities that continued until it came time to leave for the ball.

THE PROTECTORS WERE most upset with both Amy’s and Domnika’s appearances, but Mrs. Halloway ignored their protests. You men have no sense of fashion, so keep your comments to yourselves. All three girls look perfectly wonderful.

Well, Catherine looks modest in her fashions. Why can’t you dress Domnika and Amy the same?

The men’s declaration only caused Catherine to burst into tears.

Mrs. Halloway ordered everyone to the carriage as she took Catherine into the library to talk.

Ten minutes later, Mrs. Halloway entered the carriage alone. She explained Catherine did not feel up to a ball and had decided to stay home. Amy could sense the anguish Mrs. Halloway tried so bravely to hide. She slipped her arm around the woman and willed her peace.

Soon, all was well, and the fine points of Darby became the topic again.

When Amy agreed he was a fine kisser, Domnika glared at her. I am very glad you agree, but let us be clear, you’ll not be kissing him anymore.

Not even on your wedding day in the manner of congratulations? Amy protested.

Domnika paled. Don’t speak of weddings. It is not a realistic expectation I should have, not with such a fine young man.

This declaration horrified Mrs. Halloway. My dear, what other expectation could you have?

A deep and lasting friendship.

And could you be satisfied with that?

If it is all that is possible, then yes. I would rather enjoy his fine mind and wit, than to not know him at all. Domnika turned her face towards the window to hide her tears.

Mrs. Halloway handed her a handkerchief. "Well, that is a respectable alternative, but I do not believe you will be in danger of such a lonely outcome. Darby answers to no one, and for once it is a very good thing. There are no impediments to prevent him from taking a wife with no money or publicly known connections.

I am sorry your true connections cannot be revealed, but Chavier believes it vital that your true identity be kept a complete secret and even denied. However, I am pleased, due to Amy’s indiscretion, that Darby knows that you are a Russian princess. Nor will I think he minds that no one else knows it. I have concluded Darby enjoys keeping his diamonds hidden from the public.

Domnika returned the handkerchief and smiled. He does at that. He is far more than he appears.

As are you, which makes the two of you a very fine match. Neither of you will give a wit about society. Instead, you will circle about your own little orbit, marveling at one another and your close friends. Much like another couple we know, Ann teased and kissed Amy’s head.

Ann’s smile then turned to worry and Amy divined instantly her concern. If Domnika saw Antonio flirting with another woman, she might do something very rash.

Amy grabbed Ann’s hand. Well, in that spirit, I think I should forewarn you both of a game that Antonio and I intend to play on society tonight. Since I must have suitors, he has given me leave to flirt and enjoy their kisses as much as I like, and to balance the scales, I have insisted he select some young woman to romance, as well. So, before you think we have had a great falling out and are behaving outrageously to one another, let me assure you this is nothing more than a playful game we have concocted.

Domnika frowned. In my opinion, I believe this is a foolish game, but given you will do it anyway, allow me to reiterate that when you are enjoying all those kisses of young men, none had better be with Darby.

That isn’t very generous of you, Domnika, Amy teased.

I never claimed to be generous. That is your trait, not mine. And I think you will be sorry for this game when you see Antonio kissing some other young woman.

Amy swallowed hard and looked at Ann. He would not kiss her right before me, would he? Surely, he would go into the garden or upstairs, would he not?

Well, he had better. It is entirely improper to kiss anyone in the ballroom. Amy, I hope you realize that even games must be played within the rules of society. Just because you’ve decided to take on more suitors does not mean you may ignore propriety. We cannot have a scandal. That is the last thing we need.

Relieved there was no chance she would have to watch Antonio kiss anyone, she happily assured Ann she wouldn’t cause a scandal and then assured Domnika she wouldn’t steal kisses from Darby.

Chapter 2

When the three women entered, Amy noticed more people appeared to watch them tonight. Chavier stepped forward and kissed Ann on her cheeks, then kissed both Amy’s and Domnika’s hands.

Amy was certain those kisses to the hand were not the same or Domnika would have blushed from head to toe. He had not tallied overlong upon Amy’s hand, but long enough for her to feel the flicker of his tongue on the sensitive flesh between her knuckles and to make the back of her throat tickle.

He escorted them to a comfortable corner that gave a clear view of the dance floor. He pointed out the location of the punch, and where the buffet would be served latter in the evening. He even made note of the French doors to the garden.

The Rothborn’s gardens are very fine. He smiled at Amy. Perhaps after our dance, you would save time for me to show you about.

Amy happily penciled him in for two slots. She wrote CJ on the first line and then fwkitg on the second to remind her that the dance would be followed with kisses in the garden.

Chavier leaned close to her and read her card. Ah, you’ve taken into writing in code, I see.

Yes, well I discovered some suitors have a propensity to read my card and then laugh at me.

He read the second line and looked very pleased. She worried that he knew what she had written.

You cannot know what I wrote!

He untied her card from her wrist, then took her pencil and wrote upon the card. She feared he did know and he had written it out in plain English for everyone to read. She was thus relieved when he returned the card, for he had only repeated the code on the last two dances of the night, except now the second line read fwmkitg. There was an extra ‘m’ in front of the ‘w’ for kisses. As she ran through possible words starting with m one came quickly to mind: More.

She laughed and looked up into Chavier sparkling eyes. I fear you have broken my code, sir. I will have to develop a better one before the next ball.

I look forward to the challenge. He then made way for Darby who approached to greet the ladies. When Darby asked Amy for a dance, she glanced at Domnika for permission.

Domnika took her card and penciled in ‘dowd’.

It took very little time for Amy to come up with ‘dance only with Darby’.

Darby then asked Domnika if he might have a dance, which she filled in and drew a line through the block underneath.

Could I have the last dance as well?

Domnika assured him he could and suggested he arrive early, so they would not miss the first of the dance. She showed him her card and he laughed happily, promising her he would do just as she suggested.

Amy glanced over at her card and saw Domnika had blocked off the spots before the dance as well. Amy intended to ask Chavier if he would like to arrive early for a dance, when Mrs. Halloway spoke with delight to a young man approaching their group.

It is good to see you again. Mrs. Halloway apologized about the mix up with the butler. "Amy dear, look who is here, John Marsh.

Truthfully, Amy did not remember the young, red-haired man, but smiled and bid him hello.

May I have the first dance, Miss Winston? John asked.

I’m sorry but that slot has already been filled.

Marsh glanced at Darby in annoyance. Then may I have the second dance?

No, that has been taken as well. The fourth dance is open.

Marsh refocused on Darby. May I speak to you in private please?

Darby shook his head. I’m not your problem, Marsh.

John gripped Amy’s wrist so he could read the card.

I cannot make heads nor tails of this, he complained.

Amy laughed. And that was exactly my purpose of writing in code. Now do you wish the fourth dance?

No, that will not do, he said and stared at her card. Who is this CJ that has two dances?

That would be me, John, Chavier replied from his position beside Ann.

John looked stunned by the revelation. And who are these? he asked pointing to the longer strings.

Are none of the blank spaces to your satisfaction? Amy asked, thinking this young man most demanding and difficult.

No, they are not, he replied. I was not able to get on your card the last time either. Darby, which of these is yours?

Darby came over and looked at Amy’s card as well. I must be dowd. He gave Amy a questioning look.

She should have written stodgy, Marsh snipped.

Darby gave him a hard look. Only an idiot insults the person who was about to do them a favor. He returned the card to Amy.

Marsh cursed beneath his breath and then glared at Amy. Mark out dowd, and put me in for your third dance, he instructed.

Amy studied him for a moment. Are you an only child?

Yes, why do you ask?

Did you like your nanny?

Very much.

And your tutors?

Not so much. His forehead crinkled in annoyance. Is there some point to your questions?

Darby sighed and stared at the ceiling in exasperation. She is trying to figure out why you are such a pompous ass and expect to have your way all the time. She has no doubt concluded from her three questions that you were spoiled by your nanny into a horrid monster of a boy who has no idea how to make or keep friends, and clearly from your display today, she will conclude you’ve not made much progress since. He then looked at Amy. You can move me to the fourth dance if you are still willing to give this brat a chance. In his favor, he’s a very good dancer and can be an interesting conversationalist, if you can keep him from talking about himself.

Amy ran an arrow to the forth line for Darby and added JM on the third line.

Why does Darby get more letters? Marsh asked.

Amy laughed and added vsgd at the end of his initials for ‘very spoiled good dancer’.

That doesn’t spell anything...

At this point, Ann felt compelled to intervene. John, you’ve got your dance, dear. Stop bullying Amy and leave now.

John turned to Domnika and asked if her first two dances were open.

Darby intervened. She has no dances for you, John. Domnika is a great judge of character and doesn’t care in the least that you’re a good dancer. I gave you my slot for Amy, now in return, go away and leave Domnika alone.

Darby seemed amazed when John did just that.

Domnika squeezed his hand with affection. Will you remain at my side and shoo away all such obnoxious gentlemen? she asked and then looked at Amy. Really Amy, I cannot imagine why you put up with that nonsense. And Chavier, why did you not come to her rescue? Only Darby had the courage to call the matter straight, she declared as she labeled several more lines on her card ‘rest,’ ‘food,’ and ‘drink.’ She showed him her card and asked if he might be available for any of those slots.

He laughed. I confess, I have no intention of dancing with anyone else, so I’m completely free.

Domnika turned to Mrs. Halloway. How many times is the absolute maximum that a lady can dance with the same gentleman?

Three is the limit.

Domnika wrote in one more dance and filled the remainder with rest. My dance card is full. Would it be too improper if Darby and I were to sit upon the chairs by the wall and talk?

Mrs. Halloway assured her that was fine, and the two quickly escaped.

Amy noticed that both Mrs. Halloway and Chavier seemed pleased with the speedy progress the two lovers made. The certainty of a happy life for Domnika thrilled Amy so much that she even found room on her card for two of last week’s bad dancers. She had also written in several blocks for rest and food but gave two up when she was introduced to a very handsome and tall gentleman named Carlos DeSoto, which Mrs. Halloway led her to understand was the second of the suitors she wished Amy to pursue.

Amy liked everything about him: his dark complexion, his sultry eyes, his smell, and especially his thick Spanish accent. When she replied in Spanish to his request for a dance, offering him the choice of three slots, he begged to have them all. She paused. I suppose it’s all right this time, since Dobson turned you away at her door.

Carlos seemed smitten with her, so much that she worried his heart would be broken when she married Antonio. Once he left, assuring her he would count the hours until their first dance, she looked to Ann for help.

When she relayed her concern, Ann laughed. "Carlos is quite adept at the passionate display. And while he seems taken with you, I assure you