Scars of The Duke (The Valiant Love Regency Romance #7) (A Historical Romance Book): Valiant Love, #7

By Deborah Wilson

It was love at first sight.

It was disaster in the end.

Lady Selena Gorm still remembers the day she met the Duke of Astlen…

It was the day he ripped her heart from her chest and broke it into a million pieces.

She's been in hiding from him for years…

But… when her family was in trouble, she knew she needed to return to London.

Only to find out all the trouble was created to get her back to London.

And the person behind the ruse was the one who'd ruined her life.

The Duke of Astlen.

Marley Bing never meant to hurt Selena.

He'd been young and foolish then, but now the duke knows exactly what he wants.

And … it's Selena.

He has carried her in his heart for years.

And now that she's returned, he'll use every talent he has to convince her to give him a second chance.

But secrets rest between them, and time has brought it's own complications. 

This time around, can love take root and thrive?

Or will it die forever?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Deborah Wilson
• Release date: Feb 7, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393157625

Deborah Wilson

As a young girl, Deborah has been an avid fan of Regency authors such as Jane Austen. Deborah has always been in love with the Regency era. Despite the fact that this era is filled with great social, political, and economic upheavals and happenings, yet there is still plenty of room for episodes of romance happenings. In this era, love was pure. In this era, one can still find men and women who would have the courage to express their love while living amongst strict social customs for courtships. In such times, romantic gestures could be small yet they have a beautiful, meaningful impact. It is Deborah’s desire that through her writings, one will find the courage to love, to profess love and to pursue love. And the reason is simple. Everyone deserves to love and be loved. Pure and simple. Deborah is the author of ❦ VALIANT LOVE ❦ series. While the wealthy and titled men and women of the early nineteenth century were known for their extravagance in dress and decor and the rules that governed ‘polite society’, she wanted this series to focus on something different. Honor. What makes a man or woman honorable and where does love fit into all of this? “Let good be thy fortune and honor thy wealth.” Read and find out now for yourself Sign up now to Deborah’s VIP email list. Why? You will never miss a new release. You will be notified by Deborah personally as soon as her next book is out. →⟫⟫ http://eepurl.com/dHxqRD And please don’t forget to connect with Deborah on facebook. She loves hearing from her readers and sharing her thoughts and writing progress. →⟫⟫ https://www.facebook.com/deborahwilsonbooks

Book preview

0 1

*   *   *

Six Years Ago

London, England

March 1814

Selena slid her fingers over the pianoforte keys and dared to glance over at the group of women in her sitting room. He sat with them.

Marley Bing, the Duke of Astlen, was in her home.

Selena had never seen him this close or in such an intimate setting. From under her lashes, she watched him.

He was fully engaged in a discussion on the play that the theatre group that her mother and his mother belonged to had written.

He looked relaxed, but one corner of his mouth was lifted. It made her want to be the first to turn that hint of a smile to something full and bold. That was the sort of accomplishment that you’d tell your friends about for years to come but mention with great indifference in order hide just how thrilled you were, how much that moment had shaped your life and pleased you.

Not that Selena had any friends. She rarely allowed anyone close these days.

The women around her mother came alive like a horde of puppies who were basking in their master’s glow. Selena’s mother had introduced the duke to everyone on that side of the room but had completely forgotten Selena—too pleased that Astlen had come to concentrate on anything else.

Selena forgave her, for it gave Selena more time to stare at him.

He was beautiful.

His eyes were dark, reminding her of the night sky. The rest of his face was just as memorizing. Chiseled and hard, with a hint of gentleness that could be cultivated if he wished it. His hair was dark as well, but instead of the boyish curls that were in style, he styled it in waves like an untamed ocean.

She was startled when he finally looked at her.

Oh, and that’s my daughter, Lady Selena. Other mothers would have introduced their daughters first. The marriage market was a game that many a mama had mastered, but not Selena’s mother. She simply never learned to think as other mamas did. She was a patient and loving woman, believing all things would come in time.

Selena’s eyes caught the duke’s and held.

He stood and bowed. Lady Selena.

She rushed to her feet and curtseyed. Your Grace.

His gaze lowered, shifting down her body before returning to hers. There was something there, but in a blink, it was gone. He turned when Lady Ebba Blanc called him.

Oh, Lord Astlen, we know you to be a patron of the arts with a fine eye, young Lady Ebba said with a great amount of breath and the flutter of her lashes. Surely, you thought our play was good. Better than good.

The duke had his own theatre, Theater von Rosen, or Theatre of Roses. Most people called it The Rose. He was known to purchase manuscripts from the public, writers who didn’t work at the theatre. Though not a writer himself, he was fastidious about which plays graced his stage and bore his backing, almost to the point that people thought him captious. Yet at the end of the day, every play Marley had ever backed was a success.

Selena hadn’t known the women had sent off their manuscript. It didn’t even have a name yet. When her mother had first started holding the meetings for the Ladies of Theatre, it had been about nothing more than discussing the latest plays. Then, sometime last year, the women had decided to write a play.

Selena had thought it just a fun way to be occupied.

But then, a few weeks ago, they’d grown very serious about their play, fighting over names and characters, and especially the final scene. Should the love tale end in triumph or tragedy?

They’d decided triumph.

I enjoyed it, Marley said, giving Selena a final glance before retaking his seat. Selena took her own as he went on. Though, I did have questions about the music. Perhaps you could play one song in particular? The last song.

Of course, Selena’s mother said. My daughter can play both piano and harp. She is musically gifted. We wrote the songs, but her playing truly brought them to life. Again, Lady Dorshea did not say these things because she thought they were what Marley wished to hear but because she thought them true.

Selena wanted to duck her head, but she’d all but been invited to join the conversation.

She stared at Marley, and it seemed he’d waited until the last second to look over at her. His sharp dark eyes caught her in their snare. He had that look again. She felt caged. They commanded her attention and something else... something deeper. What was it?

Butterflies spread their wings and took flight in her belly.

He stood and walked over, slowly, predatorily, as though giving her a chance to run. You play the harp, Lady Selena?

She wet her lips quickly. I do... Her voice faded away as she noticed his eyes on her mouth. He’d caught her action. His gaze flicked back to her eyes, and it was like being struck by a bolt of lightning.

Selena’s skin drew in tight.

The harp is in the music room, Lady Dorshea said. The song sounds lovely on both instruments, but there’s an intimate quality about the harp, I must say.

The women around her quickly agreed.

Marley approached and held out his hand. Shall we go to the music room?

* * *

Marley was almost surprised when Lady Selena stood to accept his escort. She kept her chin tilted high, but it could do nothing to hide her obvious apprehension. Her expression was nearly coy, yet she was doing what she could to hide it. To appear brave, as though he, a duke, offering to escort her to another room was something she encountered every day.

And maybe she did.

She was lovely.

Her hair was the shade of thick honey with a hint of fire. Her lips were a natural crimson. Her cheeks had grown a rosy shade at his approach. She had many lovely shades of red, like a fine berry he wished to nibble on.

She had to be young, no more than nineteen to his twenty-five.

She was pretty. Her features were soft. Feminine.

But there was something else about her that Marley liked, an honesty in her expression. It lacked the calculation of other women and girls.

Any other lady would have played demure or blasé in his presence, since women were usually taught to do so by their mothers. But there was a freshness to Selena. She was a surprise, like a sweet one enjoyed after dinner.

And those eyes....

He’d never seen such a true blue before. Usually, a color this bold could make one look frosty, yet with her, he felt far from cold.

Marley was heating by the minute.

Finally, finally, she took his hand. Their fingertips touched and then she slipped her hand more fully into his palm.

The feeling of holding simply that small part of her was invigorating.

Immediately, he wished they were alone, but he knew that would not be possible. Which meant he had to find another way to see her. He had to see her. He needed to know her.

Marley had never felt this way about any woman before.

Caution whispered its way through his mind, but he brushed it aside. He did not have his heart set on love, only fun.

The twelve members of the Ladies of Theatre led the way, their destination only the next room over and divided by a wall that could be folded back to accommodate larger parties. The women chatted with his mother about their excitement. Marley purposefully slowed his steps so he could have a moment alone with Selena. He was thinking of something to say when he looked over and saw her smiling, yet its boldness told him it wasn’t about him or the fact that he held her arm.

Do you find something amusing? he asked.

She looked at him and then away, her lips still turned up. My mother, not that she’s amusing. She’s quite delighted that your mother managed to convince you to come. I don’t know if you actually like their play, but it’s wonderful that you would take the time to entertain them at least. They’ve worked so very hard on it.

There had been a compliment hidden in her words, yet it hadn’t been said to flatter him. She was simply happy that her mother was happy.

And so was he. Lady Judith hadn’t had to work very hard to get him to come over. He’d known his mother had been a part of a lady’s theatre group for some time. Whenever she’d spoken of the ladies who had become her friends, her face would glow, and he’d been pleased.

He enjoyed seeing his mother happy.

However, the play was only part of the reason he’d shown up today. Marley thought it time he met his mother’s friends to see if they were truly her friends of if they were only using her.

So far, the women seemed genuine. Lady Dorshea was a true gem. Her house was warm, and, like her daughter, her presence didn’t seem cultivated from the drive to conquer and win the Season.

They were wealthy. Marley saw that from the decor and the details in the fine muslin of their dresses, but everything was done tastefully and without boast.

They entered the music room.

Marley looked around as Selena let him go. It was a small pale green room with gold and white accents and fixtures. There was plenty of seating, and Marley took the chair closest to the harp.

She settled in her chair.

Do you need the music? Marley asked.

She shook her head as she removed her gloves. I have it memorized. The embarrassment from earlier had left her. She flexed her pale fingers and then moved to position herself closer. The gleaming mahogany instrument was twice her size, yet Marley had no doubt she’d learned to master it.

She moved and positioned herself close, settling down with the instrument at her knees, and Marley knew he’d never seen anything more erotic. But then she positioned her head close to the strings, as though she would cradle and whisper it into submission.

Marley moved to try and hide the growing heat between his legs then stilled as the first notes began. He recognized the melody. He’d had a friend of his play it on the piano when he’d gone over the play.

Do you sing? Lady Dorshea was over his shoulder, smiling.

Marley frowned and was ready to tell the woman he did not, but then his mother cut in.

He does, his mother said. Sing. Please, Marley. She had her hands pressed to her chest, her gaze filled with hope.

Marley sighed as Lady Dorshea handed him the music, as though knowing he’d not tell his mother no.

He stared at the lyrics as his heart picked up its pace slightly. He’d not sung in front of people in years.

Selena’s voice caught his attention as she began to sing.

∫  ∫  ∫

0 2

*   *   *

The song was about a man and woman who were deeply in love, but neither was willing to say it, even though there was a chance they’d never see one another again. The man was driving the woman home.

This would be goodbye.

It was sad and moving.

Selena’s eyes urged him to take the second part.

Marley cleared his throat, trying to ignore just what else those eyes had made him feel, and sang the next part. The melody was a simple one, but its combination with the lyrics made it one of those tunes that could easily become the anthem of the Season, being played in every music hall for every party.

Selena’s voice followed his. She was the best singer. She wasn’t trying to be, but the song suited her voice easily. They finished the rest of the song in the same manner, even blending on a few parts. The song had not been written to be a duet and wouldn’t be but singing with her had been fun.

That was wonderful, Lady Dorshea cried.

The other ladies agreed. Many praised Marley on his voice. He had a pretty good baritone. A few told Selena how well she played, but she waved it away, likely used to their kind words. Then she turned her bright eyes to him. Do you sing often?

Never, Marley said.

Only when I beg him, his mother said. So, what do you think? 

* * *

Like the rest of the party, Selena waited for Marley’s judgment. She held her breath even while telling herself she was being silly. She hadn’t written the play. She wasn’t a member of the Ladies of Theatre. She simply happened to be home when the group met most days... and it was the only time her mother allowed her to have a real glass of wine, unlike the watered-down version at dinner. Lady Norris, one of the ladies of the group, had a son who owned vineyards in France and Spain and always sent her the best of his selection.

Yet even not being a member, she could feel the tension surrounding them. It was so great that not even the wind from the open window could calm it.  The entire house seemed too quiet, as though even the servants waited with bated breath.

Marley drew his lips down... but they didn’t stay down for long. He grinned a moment later and then nodded. It’s fascinating and beautiful. Well done, ladies. This play will see the stage, but it will need a name.

The room went up with cheers, applause, and hugs as excitement bubbled over and filled nearly every corner.

We need wine! This is a celebration. Lady Norris was an enchanting older lady who had an extensive knowledge about wine.

A few approached Marley and began to thank him. There were three women in the group who were about Selena’s age. Lady Ebba Blanc was twenty-two and though she had two suitors who were currently fighting for her hand, Selena was sure she’d forget they ever existed if Marley even gave her a hint that he was interested.

Selena was still amazed that he was there. She’d seen him at a distance before, in large assemblies like her presentation to the queen. His sister, Lady Emily, had also been presented that same night and like a great escort, he’d remained at her side. Therefore, Selena was not surprised they hadn’t been introduced.

Aside from the fact that Selena didn’t make a habit of going to parties, their families were part of different circles and Selena was sure the people Marley kept company with were more... unprincipled. She’d heard the rumors about him and the women who surrounded him. Theatre actors, musicians, and an avaricious group of ladies and lords. They were thought of as being wild but great fun.

Marley was a part of the inner circle. There was gossip about the many women he entertained at one point or another, yet since he was not one to boast, no one was truly sure. That was what made him so charming. He was a man of secrets.

When the discussion became about who should play which part, his gaze turned to her and Selena stiffened. Her breath hitched. She was resting her head slightly against the harp and more than anything, she wanted to duck away.

But she didn’t.

Instead, she smiled and swallowed down her fears of this cultured man.

Once again, his eyes grazed over her and then his smile grew, forcing hers to grow as well. Then she let out a soft laugh. She didn’t know what was going on between them, but her nervous waned until there was nothing but calming warmth.

We must have a real celebration, her mother said. Perhaps a party?

Selena pulled her eyes from the duke as the entire room agreed. Lady Judith begged her son to invite his colleagues from the theatre, and he conceded that he would.

When the wine came out, Selena moved away from her harp and took a glass.

You don’t mind if a bunch of women have a glass of wine, do you, Your Grace? Lady Dorshea asked. When ladies got together, they usually drank sherry, but not the Ladies of Theatre.

Marley lifted his own glass in answer. To a successful play.

The women cheered and Selena sipped, enjoying the fruity bold flavor.

Her mother called for the servants. The dividing wall was split and Simon, their footman, struck up a lively tune on the piano. Simon had been with the house since he was a young boy and when he showed an interest in playing the piano, her parents had paid Selena’s tutor for his instruction as well, knowing it would be a benefit to the home.

Your footman is very good, Marley said as he moved to stand by her.

She met his eyes and, this time, only felt a brush of butterflies before they settled. He was trained by the best, Mr. Robert Clare.

Marley seemed surprised. Then that footman is a valuable addition in your household.

He is.

He grinned. And naturally, I imagine many have tried to persuade him to join another household.

Naturally, Selena said with a laugh.

His eyes were like chocolate, warm and rich. And indeed, he made it clear that he had no intention of leaving your service.

Indeed, she said, before taking a sip of her wine. If her smile grew any brighter she was certain she’d look the fool.

Marley lifted a brow. Ah, but has he ever been impelled by a duke?

Selena blinked and her smile fell. Why, no, he hasn’t. But then her smile returned. But I know what his answer would be. He’d give you his most gracious of rejections and then go on to tell every ear that would listen about the day the Duke of Astlen asked him to join his household.

You’re confident in that? the duke asked with challenge swirling in his eyes.

I am. Simon knows he is family here.

Hm, well, one can’t beat family, can they?

Selena saw his mind was still at work. He won’t leave us, she said, more for him than herself.

"Have you ever been impelled by a duke, my lady?" Marley asked.

Selena nearly dropped her glass. She tightened her fingers around the stem and stared into his eyes. Was it just her imagining that his question had two meanings?

He lifted a brow, waiting for her reply. And somehow, he’d moved closer without moving his feet. They still stood a polite distance away from one another, but his face was closer. She could see just how beautiful his tanned skin was and the way God had strategically laid it over well-defined muscle and bone.

She blinked rapidly and said, No, I can’t say I’ve ever been... She couldn’t even say the word ‘impelled’ anymore. Somehow, Marley had said it and changed it to mean something more. Something... sensual. Her cheeks heated. I’ve never been lured by a duke, Your Grace.

Then you cannot know just how very persuasive we can be, can you? he asked.

She took shallow breaths and felt slightly dizzy. Then she looked at her glass of wine and realized it was nearly gone.

It was one thing to drink with only the ladies and a very different thing to drink in the presence of the Duke of Astlen.

Excuse me, she said. Then she turned and fled the room before she made a fool of herself.

∫  ∫  ∫

0 3

*   *   *

Thank you for today, Marley’s mother said as he assisted her into the carriage. This truly meant the world to me.

He sat across from her and took in her enjoyment. You’re welcome. You should have invited me earlier. I’m glad you’ve found friends.

She smiled. As am I. I do enjoy the theatre. I didn’t know how much I could until a few years ago.

Marley didn’t bother to mention that his mother hadn’t known she would enjoy the theatre, because his father had never given her the choice. Victor Bing had not only controlled what his wife could or couldn’t do but had told her how to think as well.

He’d said the theatre was for fools, and his mother had simply agreed without putting much thought into the matter. She’d been a very obedient wife. His father had never lifted a hand to her, but he’d controlled her in other ways, controlled them all. He had been very good with his words.

I’m glad you’re happy, Marley said.

She sighed as she played with the ruffles of her dress. I wish Derrick could see the play. Do you think that could be arranged? Marley’s brother Derrick was a patient at Bedlam. He was insane, his mind unhinged. Marley blamed his father for that as well.

He stared at his mother. You remember what happened the last time we let Derrick out. He’d nearly burned the house down. He loved starting fires. He liked the flames. Marley didn’t even know how he’d managed it. They’d released him for the month of August a few years ago, a time when the fireplaces were rarely in use. They’d hidden the flint and kindling, had even kept the lamp oils limited, yet somehow, Derrick had found a way.

Marley had caught him lighting a fire in the drawing room. The portrait of their father that hung over the mantle had been engulfed in flames.

Derrick had been forced to return to Bedlam.

Marley missed him as much as anyone else. He’d released Derrick the same year of his father’s death. Manly, because he wanted his brother close but also in rebellion to everything his father had stood for.

Unfortunately, his father had not been wrong to lock his brother away.

We can put two footmen on him at all times, his mother said. Three. Her eyes showed desperation. Just think about it. Don’t say no so quickly.

Marley didn’t like telling his mother no. It seemed only discussions of Derrick forced the word out. I’m sorry, but that isn’t possible.

The sadness that filled his mother’s eyes was like an iron poker tearing into his chest. He hated to be the one who broke her heart. It was one of the few things he detested about being a duke. Everyone in the whole country looked upon men of his rank as if waiting for their command.

While he enjoyed certain aspects of his power, other times he wondered what it would be like to be someone who the public didn’t simply admire because of his wealth and rank. For once, he wanted someone to look at him and actually see him.

Selena’s eyes came to mind. From her coy behavior in the beginning, he was sure she’d looked upon him and seen his rank, but then something had changed during the moment their eyes had caught after they’d sang for the others.

They’d shared a moment of complete harmony. Everything in Marley’s mind had trailed away, his thoughts becoming focused on the slight tilt of her head and blue eyes that spoke of neither past nor future but simply the present. At that moment, everything had been perfect.

But once he’d begun to tease her, she ran away.

If Marley wished to get close to her, he would have to be less aggressive and more... what was the word? Gentle? He couldn’t remember the last woman he’d wooed with gentleness.

And was that what he wished to do anyway? Woo her?

For what purpose?

The apprehension that had whispered to him before returned with more force.

He shoved it aside. Did Emily not wish to join your lady’s group? There are young women there, likely some her own age. Exactly how old is Lady Selena? He’d been sure his true intentions had not been obvious to his mother.

But she knew. Lady Selena is nineteen.

He grinned. Not too young, then.

Lovely, is she not? his mother pressed, crossing her feet at the ankle. A true wallflower though. She isn’t actually a member of the Ladies of Theatre. I believe she only comes for the wine.

The wine was very good, but I was only inquiring about her for Emily’s sake, he said, but he allowed his expression to show he was lying.

No, you were not. His mother’s smile grew. Marley did not usually share such intimate details about his personal life or pursuits when it came to women and definitely not with his mother, but it seemed worth it if it would put a smile on her face.

Oh, his mother gushed. It would be wonderful if you two wed. Then Louisa and I would have something else that connects us. Louisa is a wonderful woman, truly. She’s helped me make so many friends. She introduced me to everyone and never made me feel as though I didn’t belong.

You’re the Duchess of Astlen; you belong wherever you please. He’d nearly hissed the words and regretted doing so when he saw the sadness in his mother’s eyes. Marley’s frustration was not with his mother but his father. Friends were yet another thing the old duke had forbidden his wife from having.

His father had died three years ago, but it was only in the last year that his mother had started to bloom. Meeting the unconventional Lady Dorshea had helped immensely.

His mother looked down. It is not always that easy, Marley.

He reached out and covered her hands with his own. I know. Truly, Mother. I’m happy for you.

She looked up at him. If your pursuit of Lady Selena is not honorable then please leave her alone, Marley. Do not risk my friendship for some... passing fancy.

His heart shook. He patted his mother’s hand. In truth, he could not promise his mother that he would leave Lady Selena alone. He wasn’t entirely sure he could. There was simply something about her, and whatever it was, it was enough to stop him from telling his mother no.

And Marley never liked telling his mother no anyway.

∫  ∫  ∫

0 4

*   *   *

You’ve messed up your transition.

No, I didn’t.

It’s was broken, Mr. Cason Hayhurst said. The transition should be smooth.

Selena glared up at him, even as she continued to play. It was smooth. She looked back down and stared at her fingers as they glided through the keys, Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro.

Cason sighed heavily. The song should make one feel as though they can fly when they hear it, not wish to run away.

She stopped, and her mouth gaped.

He leaned over the top board, a very confused look in his green eyes. He was the grandson of the Viscount of Livingstone. His father, John Hayhurst, had been called one of the best piano makers in London and a fine pianist. Along with the Hayhurst pianos becoming a necessity for a proper home, taking lessons from the man himself made any daughter the perfect wife for genteel Society.

Cason, his son, was very good as well and had taken over Selena’s lessons after his father had died five years ago.

Cason was thirty-two, very fair and very handsome, and though he didn’t need the money her family gave him for her lessons, he came once every fortnight, because Selena had meant something to his father. He’d called her one of his greatest pupils.

Yet at the moment, Cason didn’t seem at all impressed.

Selena, you’re better than this, Cason said. Where is your head?

She looked away, not wishing for him to see how close he was to the truth. She was distracted, had been since a certain duke walked into her life.

He moved and sat at her side.

She moved over but kept her gaze lowered.

His fingers came up under her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes. She was startled by the touch, though it wasn’t the first time he’d crossed boundaries. Neither was it the first time she’d allowed it.

You don’t believe I would actually run from you, do you? he asked. Do you know why I come here and give you lessons?

Because, your father enjoyed my playing, she said.

"I enjoy your playing. He clearly saw the doubt in her eyes because he went on, I do enjoy it but also because I know no better female pianist in the world."

She laughed and looked away, taking her chin from his grasp.

"The ton is an odd group I’ll never understand. Cason closed the fallboard, shutting the keys away, and leaned closer to her. They say the piano a woman’s domain, yet then tell her she can’t be a professional musician." It was not common for boys to study piano, yet they were the ones who could make