Jocelyn

By Elizabeth Jayne

Exhilarating romance, adventure, forbidden passions...

 

Jocelyn Chambers is beautiful, stubborn and fiercely independent. She has her life planned out before her, and her plans do not include losing her freedom to the dictates of a husband. But when she tries to save her friend from a disastrous betrothal, she comes face to face with a man who turns her ordered world upside down.

Imperious and handsome, Sir Gaden Brehnt is on a mission to overthrow King James. Brehnt has made many enemies by joining sides with the usurper. Enemies that now threaten the lives and safety of those he cares about.

Thrown together when she becomes an unwilling pawn in Sir Gaden's mission, Jocelyn resists his arrogant authority as she is drawn deeper into his dangerous world. But she soon finds she has another battle to contend with – her traitorous heart as she becomes irresistibly drawn to this dark-haired knight.

Everything is at risk: her life, her reputation, and, above all, her heart.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Elizabeth Jayne Books
• Release date: May 5, 2015
• ISBN: 9780987402462

Book preview

Chapter 1

England, 1688

Jocelyn pushed her horse harder as the castle loomed ahead. She was soaked to the skin and the wind whipped around her like ice, sucking the breath from her lungs. Weariness edged its way into her very bones but she could not stop. She gathered what strength she had left and prayed she did not fall from the saddle. The horse finally clattered across the drawbridge, slowing to a stop inside the safety of the castle walls. Men rushed towards them, calming the horse while Jocelyn slid from his back. She dragged her exhausted body inside the castle and collapsed into the waiting arms of her astonished maid.

* * *

Previously…

You must tell me everything you have been doing since we last spoke, Jocelyn, Eden said as they took their seats at the table for luncheon. Has your father removed himself from his maps and books or does he still live as a hermit?

Jocelyn smiled at the vision of her father as she had left him, engrossed in the maps spread over his desk. You know him far too well, Eden. Yes, he still spends a large amount of time in his study but it gives him pleasure.

I am certain it does but it leaves you alone far too often.

Jocelyn gave a small shrug. I do not mind. I find many things to occupy my time. Besides, Father allows me to manage the home and even assist with the tenements. I will need to learn everything if I am to be the eventual landholder.

With the utmost respect for Lord Chambers, he needs to take charge of his own holdings and allow you the opportunity to secure a marriage. Eden held up her hand as Jocelyn opened her mouth. Before you tell me again how you will remain unwed, you know that one day you must marry. It is the way of things, Jocelyn, and your father will no doubt insist.

As much as I know this to be true, I will do all I can to postpone the event as much as possible. Let’s not talk any more on this subject, Eden. Tell me of your own happenings.

Eden looked at her plate, her expression turning serious. Let us finish our meal and then we can take a stroll through the garden. You will see all the new bushes that have come into bloom and I am certain you will find them as lovely as I do, she added with a smile.

That sounds splendid, Jocelyn agreed, curious to find out what had caused Eden’s happy expression to change so quickly.

The walk through the garden was, indeed, lovely. The scent of the colourful flowers was heavenly and Jocelyn and Eden took their time strolling along the path that wove in and out of the bushes. They stopped at a small birdbath set in the middle of a patch of flowers.

Jocelyn, what do you know of Sir Gaden Brehnt? Eden asked suddenly. She kept her face turned away as her fingers played with the petals of a small blue flower.

Not a great deal, Jocelyn told her. He lives some distance from here, is widowed – although never short of company from what I hear, she added. He is quite old. Older than your father, I think, she added, her brow wrinkled as she thought. Why do you ask?

Eden moved away. He is arriving here today.

Jocelyn was surprised. I didn’t know your family were acquainted with him.

We aren’t. At least, only my father knows him. She turned to look at her friend, her eyes filled with dismay. We are betrothed.

Betrothed? Jocelyn could only stare. It wasn’t possible. Eden, so beautiful with her long golden curls and so full of life, betrothed to a man older than her father. And a not very nice man if what she had heard was true.

Eden, you cannot marry him. Surely your father will allow you to refuse such a man.

I have no choice, Jocelyn, she said sadly. My father has arranged it. Sir Gaden comes today to make his official offer. I am bound to accept.

But he is a lecherous rake! Jocelyn couldn’t keep the words bursting from her lips.

Yes, I have heard this, too. I don’t want to marry him but Father thinks he is the best of men and nothing I say can dissuade him. I don’t know what I am going to do. Her voice cracked on the last words and Jocelyn took her hand, leading her to the garden seat.

I will stay with you until he arrives. I won’t leave you alone to visit with him.

You are a good friend but I don’t think Father would allow you to stay during the visit.

I will find some way to help you. I promise.

Miss Eden, your father wishes to see you in his library.

Both women looked up, startled by the maid’s intrusion.

Thank you, Annie, Eden managed. I’ll be along shortly.

As the maid turned to leave, Eden began to tremble.

Jocelyn squeezed her hand. We will face this together.

Eden nodded then reluctantly stood and walked towards the castle. When she faltered at the threshold, Jocelyn gave her fingers another reassuring squeeze. Eden smiled gratefully and continued.

They entered the library and found Eden’s father sorting through some papers on his desk. He looked up and blinked in surprise.

Jocelyn, my dear, I didn’t realise you were paying us a visit today. How are you? he asked pleasantly.

I am well, thank you, Sir Hunton. A contingent of my father’s men was travelling this way and I could not pass up the opportunity to visit with Eden and spend time with her. It has been several weeks since we last saw each other.

You know you are always welcome. I am sorry I was not at the noon meal to greet you. He smiled at her. My Eden is lucky to have such a friend as yourself. He cleared his throat. I am sorry to cut your visit short, my dear, but Eden has a very important visitor arriving shortly and must prepare.

She has informed me of Sir Gaden’s visit, sir, and, if it is all right with you, I would like to stay with her and lend my support.

He frowned slightly. It is a nice gesture, Jocelyn, but Eden will do well enough without your help. She does know how to greet and converse with gentlemen, after all.

Jocelyn didn’t want to leave Eden and by the way her fingers were being crushed it seemed Eden didn’t want her to leave, either.

Please, Father, Eden said softly, her eyes pleading with him.

Sir Hunton’s frown softened. Very well. But be mindful, Jocelyn, that you must remain silent during our visit. Sir Gaden is coming to meet Eden and become better acquainted with her. You must allow them the time to do this.

Jocelyn lowered her eyes beneath his firm gaze and nodded. Although, if her friend needed her she could not guarantee to hold that bargain.

* * *

It was mid afternoon when the courtyard echoed with the clattering of horses’ hooves and the voices of men. Sir Gaden and his entourage had arrived.

The two women peered down from the guest chamber above the courtyard.

Which one is he? Eden asked. Can you see?

No. Perhaps he has already entered the castle, Jocelyn answered, straining to see.

Dozens of men stood around but none of them looked old enough to be Sir Gaden. One of them walked towards Eden’s father and they clasped hands in greeting.

It looks like he may have sent a messenger in his place, Jocelyn added as she watched the young man. His dark hair shone in the sun and from this distance he appeared tall and looked pleasant enough although it really was hard to tell, even with her face pressed close against the glass. She moved away from the window and suggested Eden do the same. Eden clasped her hands together as she followed suit.

Jocelyn, I am afraid, she said in a soft voice.

Jocelyn held her friend’s trembling hands. It will be all right. I will be with you.

Eden nodded.

Besides, Jocelyn continued, if we are correct and Sir Gaden has not come, it gives us more time to change your father’s mind.

Yes. Yes, that is true. Eden brightened at the thought.

A knock sounded on the door and a maid entered requesting their presence downstairs in the large drawing room. With an apprehensive look, Eden straightened her shoulders and the two women left to join her father.

They entered the room and found two men in company with Sir Hunton. Jocelyn quickly surveyed them both and determined that neither was Sir Gaden. They appeared to be a few years older than herself and Eden but certainly nowhere near the age of Eden’s father.

The man she had seen talking to Sir Hunton in the courtyard was looking hard at her. She returned his look. He was taller than she had expected and had an air of strength about him but if he thought to intimidate her he was in for a surprise. His eyes glinted and he looked away. She had the feeling he was laughing at her and she was not amused. Jocelyn felt Eden relax beside her. She glanced in her direction and noticed the small smile playing around her mouth. Jocelyn followed her gaze and saw the other young man looking at Eden with an answering smile.

Sir Hunton made a sweeping gesture to the two women and announced, Sir, may I present my daughter, Eden, and her dear friend Miss Jocelyn Chambers.

The man Jocelyn had traded stares with walked towards them. He held out his hand to her and said, Miss Hunton, it is a pleasure to meet you.

Jocelyn felt great satisfaction when she was able to reject his hand and said, Charming words, sir, however they are wasted on me. You mistake who I am.

A quick flash of surprise crossed his face but he remained silent, dropping his hand but not his frank gaze. Jocelyn lifted her chin at his rudeness and stared back.

My apologies, sir, Sir Hunton said as he hurried over to them. He took Eden’s arm and said proudly, This is my daughter. As the man bowed to her in greeting, her father continued, Eden, I present you to Sir Gaden Brehnt, your betrothed.

Eden’s eyes opened wide.

Jocelyn couldn’t help the small gasp that escaped her lips.

You seem surprised, Sir Gaden said to Eden. Surely you were expecting me?

Yes, sir. Only, I had expected a much older man.

You expected my father, perhaps? he said with teasing amusement. Sorry to disappoint you.

Oh no, it is no disappointment.

He turned and gestured towards his companion. Please allow me to introduce Captain Oliver Swindon to you.

Captain Oliver bowed his head to the ladies and exchanged greetings. Sir Hunton gestured for them all to be seated.

Eden smiled shyly as Sir Gaden led her to the seat nearer the hearth.

Jocelyn watched them walk away. So, Sir Gaden was not a lecherous old man, after all. Her plan to save her friend from the clutches of an old fool unravelled. There really was no need for her to remain. Eden was obviously finding his company pleasant. Jocelyn frowned. Her father’s men had not yet returned to escort her home. Now what should she do?

Is something amiss? Captain Oliver murmured.

Jocelyn looked up, surprised that he had addressed her. She noticed Sir Gaden watching. She cleared her brow and lifted her chin with a gracious smile. What could possibly be amiss?

The barest hint of a smirk touched Sir Gaden’s lips before he turned back to Eden. Eden glanced at Jocelyn, relief showing in her eyes. Eden’s gaze lingered for a moment on the captain before she nodded to Jocelyn, indicating she was fine.

Jocelyn turned to Sir Hunton. Sir, I can see that Eden is well looked after. I don’t believe she will need my company, after all.

He patted her on the arm. You are a good friend to Eden. I am sure she would like you to stay, however she does seem quite taken with him, don’t you think? he asked quietly.

Yes, sir, I don’t think you have any need to worry about your daughter.

He smiled and she walked over to where Eden and Sir Gaden were seated. Excuse me, Eden, but it is time I took my leave if I am to return home before nightfall.

Oh, but you said you would stay, Eden reminded her and held out her hand.

Yes, but I think I should leave you to attend your visitors.

Please don’t leave on my account, Sir Gaden put in.

Jocelyn completely ignored him.

Jocelyn, I would really like you to stay. Eden looked her directly in the eyes as she spoke.

Jocelyn was surprised. Eden appeared to be getting along very well with her betrothed but the look in her eyes was almost pleading.

Then I will certainly stay and share your company.

Eden smiled and turned to her father who had come to stand beside her. Father, Jocelyn has agreed to stay for the evening. Is that not wonderful?

Er yes, yes of course, my dear. Sir Hunton looked from Eden to Jocelyn, perplexed. He turned to his visitor. Sir Gaden, you will stay and dine with us, won’t you?

I think we will. Thank you for the invitation, sir.

Good news. You and your men are welcome. Captain Oliver, you may, of course, join us at the main table.

Captain Oliver bowed his head and thanked Sir Hunton. If you will excuse me, I shall go and inform the men of our plans.

Sir Gaden stood. I will also take my leave of you for a short time and make arrangements for our extended stay.

Certainly. We can all meet back here before dining, suggested Sir Hunton.

Sir Gaden and his captain nodded in agreement, said their farewells to the ladies, and left the room.

Well, my dear, what do you think of your betrothed? Sir Hunton asked eagerly.

He seems very pleasant, Father.

You do not sound very enthusiastic.

I am very happy he is not an old man as I had expected. Perhaps he is not my ideal but I know such thoughts are foolishness. She placed her hand on her father’s arm. Thank you for choosing such a fine man for me to marry, Father.

He smiled and patted her hand. I am glad he pleases you, Eden. I only wish for you to be happy. She reached up and kissed him on the cheek. He smiled and turned to Jocelyn. What did you think of Sir Gaden Brehnt, Jocelyn?

She thought for the right words. For some reason she had taken a dislike to him. He seemed pleasant enough. Showed manners, was well-spoken. Arrogant, overly confident and would probably turn Eden into his slave, she added to herself.

I am pleased you like him. It is important for Eden to have your approval, I am sure.

She gave him a tight smile and he turned and headed for the door. I will leave you girls to discuss our visitors but make sure you are ready for dinner in time.

Yes, Father.

Yes, sir.

As soon as the door had closed, Eden grasped Jocelyn’s hands and whirled her around. Well? What did you think of him? Isn’t he handsome? I don’t think I have ever seen such green eyes before.

I am glad you like him, Jocelyn told her. She was surprised by her friend’s enthusiasm. I hadn’t realised just how much. You kept your feelings well hidden.

Yes, I thought I did very well. Her eyes were dreamy as she walked about the room. When I looked into his eyes, I thought everyone would see how I felt but they didn’t, did they? I am so glad he is staying for dinner. I hope he is seated near to me.

"I expect he will be seated next to you, Eden. He is your betrothed."

Eden laughed out loud. Not Sir Gaden! I am talking about his captain, silly.

His captain? Jocelyn was confused. You are interested in the captain?

Isn’t that what I have been saying?

But you are betrothed to Sir Gaden. Nothing can become of you and the captain.

Oh, Jocelyn, of course it can. Anything is possible.

Jocelyn stifled a groan as she watched Eden walk dreamily around the room. This could not end well.

Chapter 2

The large dining hall echoed with the sounds of dozens of men as they seated themselves at the long wooden tables. The flickering candlelight from two large chandeliers cast a glow over the room and torches hung from sconces along the stone walls provided additional light for the diners. The carved stone hearth, the width of four men standing abreast, burned with a crackling fire that took the chill from the air.

Jocelyn took her seat at the main table set at one end of the hall. Unfortunately, she was seated opposite Sir Gaden. She averted her gaze and could only be thankful the table was wide enough to prevent any conversation between the two of them.

Eden was seated beside Sir Gaden and Jocelyn noted the slight blush to her friend’s cheeks and the coyness in her expression. The reason for this became clear as Captain Oliver took the seat beside Jocelyn, which was directly opposite Eden. Jocelyn hid her dismay and determined to keep the captain in conversation most of the evening to prevent him from noticing her friend’s infatuation.

Sir Gaden, a toast to you and your men, Sir Hunton announced, raising his goblet of wine.

I thank you, sir, for your hospitality, Sir Gaden replied as the toast was drunk and the food was placed on the table.

The two women were handed plates of carved beef, lamb and vegetables, and the men helped themselves. Jocelyn was pleased to note that the men at the table ate with elegance, using utensils provided, an act that was often missing amongst some of the older visitors or lower classes of the village. Not that she condemned these people for their habits but it was certainly pleasing when those with more refined manners ate beside her.

Captain Oliver was seated to her left and she focused on what he was saying. He was a pleasant dinner companion, his green eyes glinting with amusement many times during their conversation, and his fair hair showed hints of gold beneath the candlelight. A much nicer appearance than the dark, unruly hair and arrogant look of his employer, she decided, with a flick of her eyes in that direction. She was enjoying the captain’s company more than she had expected and relaxed as the evening drew on.

The dessert was laid before them and Jocelyn looked across at Eden to see if she had warmed up to Sir Gaden. Surprisingly, she encountered Eden’s glare. Jocelyn’s eyes silently questioned this anger and, as Eden